Photo : AP
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : AP
IN BRIEF
Ayan Datta
Sudan: RSF massacres 150 people in Gezira
On 7 June, BBC reported that Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) killed 150 people in Gezira state’s Wal-al-Nourah village. The World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Executive Director Catherine Russel said: "This is yet another grim reminder of how the children of Sudan are paying the price for the brutal violence." The RSF has been fighting Sudan’s army since April 2023. Over 15,000 people are estimated to have died because of the conflict. (“At least 150 villagers feared dead in Sudan massacre,” BBC, 7 June 2024)
Somalia: Secures non-permanent UNSC seat
On 7 June, Somalia secured a non-permanent UN Security Council (UNSC) seat. Somalia won the UNSC’s allocated East Africa seat by receiving 179 out of 193 votes in the UN General Assembly. Somalia was elected along with Denmark, Greece, Pakistan and Panama for the rotating non-permanent seat from January 2024 for the next two years. The country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, stated: “We stand ready to play a vital role in promoting peace and security in the world.” (“Giant step for Somalia with UN Security Council seat,” BBC, 7 June 2024)
Democratic Republic of Congo: Central Bank pushes Congolese Franc against Dollarisation
On 7 June, Africanews reported that the Central Bank of Congo (BCC) mandated all Electronic Payment Terminal (EPT) to accept Congolese Franc. The Central Bank’s decision aimed to increase the use of the national currency and reduce dependency on the US dollar. Promoting financial inclusion is another aim of the BCC. (“DR Congo seeks to curb dollar dominance by fronting use of local currency,” Africanews, 7 June 2024)
Chad: Foreign Minister Lavrov finishes Africa tour in Chad
On 7 June, Africanews reported that Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergei Lavrov visited Chad. He met Chad’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abderaman Koulamallah. Lavrov stated: "I can guarantee you that our friendship with Chad will not affect our relations with France in any way. France has other approaches, it proceeds from the fact that either you are with us or you are against us." (“Russian foreign minister wraps Africa tour with working visit in Chad,” Africanews, 7 June 2024)
Democratic Republic of Congo: Alleged coup-plotters on trial
On 7 June, BBC reported that DRC’s military court began the trial of 51 suspects of the attempted coup in May. The trial was held in Kinshasa’s N’dolo military prison. The accused individuals were facing multiple charges, including financing terrorism, and attempted assassination. (“Failed 'coup plotters' go on trial in DR Congo,” BBC, 7 June 2024)
Nigeria: To purchase 3.5 million power meters by the end of 2024
On 7 June, Africanews reported that Nigeria’s Federal Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, announced that the government would acquire 3.5 million prepaid power meters by the end of 2024. The step aims to increase revenue collection and solve the country‘s power shortage problems. (“Nigeria to purchase 3.5 million prepaid power meters by end of 2024,” Africanews, 7 June 2024)
Rwanda: Kagame critic barred from presidential race
On 7 June, according to BBC, Diane Rwigara, a critic of incumbent President Paul Kagame, was barred from contesting the presidential elections. Diane said: "I'm representing the vast majority of Rwandans who live in fear and are not allowed to be free in their own country.” She added: “Rwanda is portrayed as a country where the economy has been growing. But on the ground, it's different. People do lack the basics of life, food, water, shelter." (“Kagame critic Diane Rwigara barred from Rwanda presidential race,” BBC, 7 June 2024)