Photo : Assase Radio
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Assase Radio
IN BRIEF
Anu Maria Joseph
Nigeria: Amnesty International calls to block Shell oil business sales
On 15 April, Amnesty International called on the Nigerian government to stop the UK-based oil and gas company, Shell, from selling the country’s onshore oil businesses. The group stated that the sales should be blocked until human rights in the Niger Delta are protected. It added that the company must provide funds to address the environmental pollution it has caused, which is worth USD 2.4 billion. Frequent oil leaks in the region had caused contamination of the groundwater sources. (“Amnesty urges Nigeria to block Shell oil business sale,” BBC, 15 April 2024)
Nigeria: Inflation hits highest in three decades
On 15 April, the Nigerian National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported that the annual inflation reached the highest level in three decades, increasing to 33.2 per cent. The rising cost of food ingredients including bread, grains, dairy, eggs, meat and vegetable oil is the major trigger of inflation. Increasing energy costs additionally contributed to the rise. The Nigerian Central Bank has increased the borrowing rates twice during the past two months, however, these gains are yet to be witnessed. (“Nigeria inflation hits highest rate in nearly 30 years,” BBC, 15 April 2024)
Sudan: Humanitarian agencies warn of looming famine
On 15 April, Africanews reported on humanitarian agencies warning of a looming famine in Sudan. The civil war in the country marked one year on 14 April. The war has killed thousands and displaced over eight million. In March, the international community warned that immediate action is necessary to “prevent widespread death and total collapse of livelihoods and avert a catastrophic hunger crisis in Sudan.” According to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, 17.7 million people in the country are facing acute food insecurity and five million are one step away from famine. (“Sudan war: risk of famine looms,” Africanews, 15 April 2024)
Tanzania: Floods kill 60
On 15 April, BBC quoted the Tanzanian government that at least 60 people died in heavy floods. The floods have destroyed thousands of farms and houses. A government spokesperson, Mobhare Matinyi, stated: "Serious flood effects are experienced in the coastal region where 11 people have so far died.” The floods have affected the neighbouring country Kenya, where at least 13 people were killed and 15,000 displaced. (“Tanzania floods kill nearly 60 in two weeks,” BBC, 15 April 2024)