Photo : AFP/BBC
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : AFP/BBC
SENEGAL
Senegal curbs official travel amid rising oil prices
On 04 April, BBC reported that Senegal has banned government ministers from non-essential foreign travel in response to rising global oil prices linked to tensions involving Iran. Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko said the cost of oil had nearly doubled from budgeted levels, prompting austerity measures, including postponing his own planned visits abroad. Despite recent economic growth, Senegal remains heavily dependent on fuel imports and faces high public debt, complicating its response to the crisis. The move reflects broader pressures across Africa, where countries such as South Africa and Ethiopia have introduced measures ranging from fuel tax cuts to electricity rationing. Aid groups, including the International Rescue Committee, warn that disruptions to fertiliser supplies could further threaten food security in vulnerable regions. (“Senegal bans ministers from foreign travel as oil price rise bites,” BBC, 04 April 2025)
DRC
DR Congo to receive US third-country deportees
On 05 April, Al Jazeera reported that the Democratic Republic of Congo has agreed to temporarily receive “third-country” nationals deported from the United States under a new arrangement with the administration of Donald Trump. Congolese authorities said deportations would begin this month, with the US covering associated costs. The government framed the deal as an act of “international solidarity,” though no details were provided on the number of arrivals. The policy is part of broader US efforts to expand third-country deportations, which have drawn criticism from legal experts and rights groups over due process and safety concerns. Similar agreements have been pursued with other African states, raising fears about the treatment of deportees and the legality of transferring individuals to countries where they are not nationals. (“DR Congo to receive ‘third-country’ deportees from the US under new deal,” Al Jazeera, 05 April 2025)