Photo : AFP
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : AFP
IN BRIEF
by Anu Maria Joseph
Africa’s first climate summit
On 4 September, the first three-day African Climate Summit began in the Kenyan capital Nairobi. The summit aims to bring together African leaders to create a shared vision of green development and get ready for the COP28 meeting. Climate financing is one of the major agenda of the summit. The UAE has pledged USD 4.5 billion clean energy investment in the continent; UK is planning to invest EUR 49 million in managing impact of climate change and on climate action. Addressing the member countries, Kenyan President William Ruto stated: “Africa holds the key to accelerating decarbonisation of the global economy. We are not just a continent rich in resources. We are a powerhouse of untapped potential, eager to engage and fairly compete in the global markets.” Meanwhile, a coalition of civil society groups urged Ruto to circumvent Western led agenda that focus on carbon markets and other financial tools to redress the climate crisis. (“Billions pledged for green energy as Africa climate talks enter second day,” Al Jazeera, 5 September 2023)
Burkina Faso: 53 soldiers killed in rebel attack
On 5 September, Al Jazeera reported that at least 53 security forces of Burkina Faso were killed during a clash with rebel fighters. The clashes occurred in the Koumbri village of the Tatenga province on 4 September. The Brukinabe army stated: “This act of extreme cowardice will not go unpunished. Every effort is being made to disable the remaining terrorist elements on the run.” It is unclear which group carried out the attack. However, militants linked to Islamic State and al-Qaeda have been carrying out frequent attacks in the country. According to the Al Jazeera report, the insurgency has killed thousands and displaced more than two million people. (“At least 53 Burkina Faso soldiers, volunteers killed in clashes with rebels,” Al Jazeera, 5 September 2023)
Eswatini: Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen’s visit
On 5 September, Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen began her visit to Eswatini, Taipei’s last African ally. Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is the last monarch in Africa. Eswatini’s Prime Minister Cleopas Sipho Dlamini welcomed Tsai while they marked 55 years of bilateral relations. Since 2016, China has been pressuring countries that have bilateral relationships with Taiwan to switch their recognition to China. Taiwan had diplomatic losses with nine countries owing to Chinese efforts. (“Taiwan’s President Tsai begins visit to Eswatini, last ally in Africa,” Al Jazeera, 5 September 2023)