Photo : AFP
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : AFP
IN BRIEF
by Anu Maria Joseph
Niger: France accused of organising troops in ECOWAS member countries
On 11 September, the Niger military government accused France of amassing troops and equipment in several West African countries and planning to launch a “military intervention” against the country. A spokesperson of Niger’s coup leaders, Colonel Amadou Abdramane, said that France continues to deploy its troops in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) member countries as “part of preparations for an aggression against Niger, which it is planning in collaboration with this community organisation.” He added: French “military cargo aircraft have enabled large quantities of war material and equipment to be unloaded in Senegal, Ivory Coast and Benin, to name but a few.” The accusations came following the rising tensions between Niger and France after the coup on 26 July. France had extended its support to deposed President Mohamed Bazoum and rejected Niger’s demands to withdraw its troops and envoy from the country. (“Niger says France amassing troops, equipment in ECOWAS states,” Al Jazeera, 11 September 2023)
Sudan: Civilians killed in SAF air strike
On 11 September, BBC reported that at least 35 people were killed in an air strike at a crowded market in Sudanese capital Khartoum. The military has been carrying out frequent air strikes with an objective to regain control of the cities. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) control the majority of khartoum along with the twin cities of Omdurman and Bahri. The fighting which began in April continues with no end in sight despite multiple ceasefires. (“Sudan conflict: Dozens killed in attack on Khartoum market, medics say,” BBC, 11 September 2023)
Ethiopia: Egypt against Ethiopia filling GERD
On 11 September, Ethiopia announced that it had filled the reservoir at the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that Ethiopia was disregarding the interests of the other countries. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated: "It is with great pleasure that I announce the successful completion of the fourth and final filling of the Renaissance Dam.” The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated: "Ethiopia's unilateral measures are considered a disregard for the interests and rights of the downstream countries and their water security, as guaranteed by principles of international law.” Egypt claim that Ethiopia’s “unilateral filling” violates the principles signed by Egypt, Sudan and Ethiopia in 2015 and accused Ethiopia’s action “illegal.” (“Egypt angry as Ethiopia fills Nile dam reservoir amid water row,” BBC, 11 September 2023)
Morocco: Earthquake kills more than 2000 civilians
On 11 September, BBC reported that at least 2,681 people died in the earthquake that hit Morocco on 7 September. The Moroccan government is under pressure to accept international aid; however, it has accepted aid from only four countries including Spain, the UK, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. A 6.8 magnitude earthquake occurred at the High Atlas mountains south of Marrakesh, and destroyed many rural and remote villages. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) more than 300,000 people have been affected by the earthquake. (“Morocco earthquake: Villagers' hopes waning in search for survivors,” BBC, 11 September 2023)