Photo : Craig Ruttle, AP Photo
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Craig Ruttle, AP Photo
IN BRIEF
Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran
Benin: Deployment of 2000 troops to counter gang violence in Haiti
On 27 February, BBC reported on the announcement by the government of Benin to deploy troops in Haiti. During a press briefing held in Guyana, the US Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, announced that Benin is set to offer 2000 troops to a UN-approved Kenyan-led multinational security force in Haiti aimed at fighting gang violence. Greenfield stated: "This mission is key to helping the Haitian national police restore peace and security, enabling free and fair elections, and alleviating the humanitarian crisis.” (“Benin offers 2,000 troops to Kenya-led Haiti force,” BBC, 27 February 2024)
Nigeria: Protests against government as inflation hikes
On 27 February, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), a trade union, began its two-day protests against the government to "end hunger and insecurity" across the country. The primary demands of the protesters are to “open all food storage silos and ensure equitable distribution across the country,” and abandon the World Bank and International Monetary Fund policies. Meanwhile, Nigeria's Central Bank has raised interest rates in an initiative to curb inflation. Inflation has reached nearly 30 per cent and millions are struggling for basic needs and food. (“Labour unions in Nigeria kick off two-day protests, Nigeria raises interest rates amid cost-of-living protests,” BBC, 27 February 2024)
Guinea: Two people killed during protests against the increasing cost of living
On 27 February, Al Jazeera reported that at least two people were killed in a violent protest that erupted in Guinea’s capital Conakry. The protests began after the military dissolved the transitional government without providing a reason. The strike was organised by the confederation of several trade unions, demanding low food prices, media freedom, and the release of the Secretary-General of the Union of Press Professionals of Guinea (SPPG), Sekou Jamal Pendessa. (“Two people shot dead as Guinea protest turns bloody,” Al Jazeera, 27 February 2024)
Chad: Elections to be held in May
On 27 February, Chadian military authorities announced the delayed elections to be held in May. The polls would put an end to a transition that began in 2021. Gen Mahamat Déby took over the power after his father and President Idriss Deby died in the battleground against insurgent groups. (“Chad set for the first election since the end of civilian rule,” BBC, 27 February 2024)