Photo : Jihed Abidellaoui, Reuters
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Jihed Abidellaoui, Reuters
IN BRIEF
By Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran
Sudan: Migrants drowned near Tunisia coast
On 8 February, BBC reported on a boat accident that led to the deaths of 13 Sudanese migrants near Tunisia's coast. The migrants were trying to cross the Mediterranean to Europe. A Tunisian official reported that 27 others are missing. The Sudanese migrants are said to have fled the civil war in the country between the RSF and SAF. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), nearly 2270 migrants from Africa and the Middle East have lost their lives trying to cross the Mediterranean in 2023. (“Europe migrant crisis: Boat sinks off Tunisia with more than 40 Sudanese on board,” BBC, 8 February, 2024)
Ghana: Electricity tax hike on hold
On 8 February, BBC reported on the suspension of the electricity tax imposed by the government. A new 15 per cent tax on power was proposed for domestic consumers to boost the country’s revenue after pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The decision faced countrywide criticism over the increasing cost of living. The government has put the plan on hold over the public protest. (“Ghana electricity: New power tax put on hold after public outcry,” BBC, 8 February 2024)
South Africa: Ramaphosa reaffirms support for ceasefire in Gaza
On 8 February, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa assured the country's support for a ceasefire in Gaza while addressing the lawmakers at the Cape Town city hall. He stated: “Guided by the fundamental principle of human rights and freedom,” the country has taken the side of Palestinians, “to prevent further deaths and destruction in Gaza.” The development came after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Israel to prevent any act of genocide in Gaza following a case filed by South Africa. Ramphosa welcomed the court ruling stating: “We condemn the killing of civilians on all sides and call on all parties involved in the conflict to commit to a peace process that will deliver a two-state solution.” (“S Africa’s Ramaphosa renews call for Gaza ceasefire, Palestinian state,” Al Jazeera, 8 February 2024)
Senegal: ECOWAS holds emergency meeting
On 8 February, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) held an emergency meeting on the political crisis in Senegal and the withdrawal of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso from the bloc. In Senegal, President Macky Sall's sudden announcement of the delay in elections sparked violent protests and accusations of manipulating the system. Senegal's decision to postpone elections has raised concerns about the future of democracy in West Africa. Besides, the coups in Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso along with strained relations with the bloc have threatened the stability of the region. Meanwhile, representatives from all four countries were absent during the meeting. (“ECOWAS holds emergency session over Senegal crisis and member exits,” Al Jazeera, 8 February 2024)
Mali: Economic tensions spike after quitting ECOWAS
On 8 February, Al Jazeera reported that Mali's recent withdrawal from ECOWAS has sparked concerns about the country's future and the economic stability of the region. The move came after ECOWAS imposed sanctions on Mali following two coups within a year. While some Malians support the government's decision, citing the sanctions' negative impact on their lives and ECOWAS's perceived lack of support in their fight against insecurity, others worry about the economic consequences of leaving the bloc and the potential for further isolation. The situation is complicated by the ongoing insurgency in Mali and the government's controversial partnership with Russia. While some hope for a negotiated solution, the future remains uncertain. (“Economic hardship, insecurity spike in Mali as ECOWAS exit looms,” Al Jazeera, 8 February 2024)