Photo : Francis Kokoroko, Reuters
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Francis Kokoroko, Reuters
IN BRIEF
By Anu Maria Joseph
Mali: Military leader discuss ties with Russian president
On 11 October, BBC Africa reported on a telephone conversation between Malian military leader Colonel Assimi Goita and Russian President Vladimir Putin. They discussed economic and security cooperation. Goita stated: “During a telephone conversation, I spoke to President Putin about our cooperation in the economic, security and counter-terrorism fields. I expressed my gratitude for all the support Russia is giving Mali.” The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated: The two leaders "reaffirmed their mutual commitment to further enhance trade and economic relations, cooperation in providing security, and fighting terrorism. The Mali side expressed appreciation for the diverse assistance provided by Russia.” (“Mali junta chief and Russian president discuss ties,” BBC, 11 October 2023)
Niger: Military orders UN mission leader to leave
On 11 October, the Niger junta ordered the head of the UN diplomatic mission in the country to leave within 72 hours. Niger’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused the UN of using “underhanded manoeuvres” carried out by France to halt Niger from participating in the UN General Assembly in September. (“Junta orders UN boss to leave Niger within 72 hours,” BBC, 11 October 2023)
Kenya: King Charles visit
On 11 October, BBC reported on UK’s King Charles visit to Kenya later in October. He will be accompanied by Queen Camilla during the four-day visit. The visit also comes alongside Kenya marking its 60th anniversary of independence from Britain. King Charles' office commented that he will acknowledge the “painful aspects” of the colonial history of Kenya during the visit. Deputy private secretary to the King, Chris Fitzgerald, stated: "The King and Queen's programme will celebrate the close links between the British and Kenyan people in areas such as the creative arts, technology, enterprise, education and innovation. The visit will also acknowledge the more painful aspects of the UK and Kenya's shared history, including the Emergency (1952-1960). His Majesty will take time during the visit to deepen his understanding of the wrongs suffered in this period by the people of Kenya." (“King Charles to make state visit to Kenya,” BBC, 11 October 2023)