Photo : BBC
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : BBC
SUDAN
UAE-linked Colombian mercenaries backed RSF in Sudan, says report
On 22 April, BBC reported that a new investigation by the Conflict Insights Group (CIG) alleged that Colombian mercenaries backed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) played a critical role in supporting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) during its capture of el-Fasher in Sudan. The report, based on mobile phone tracking, flight data, and satellite imagery, claimed mercenaries travelled via a UAE military facility in Abu Dhabi and later operated drones from RSF-held areas. CIG director Justin Lynch said the findings “prove UAE involvement with certainty,” though Abu Dhabi has denied backing the RSF. The offensive on el-Fasher - described by investigators as bearing “hallmarks of genocide” - highlighted the role of foreign support in sustaining Sudan’s civil war, with analysts noting such external involvement has significantly prolonged and intensified the conflict. (“Phone tracking shows how Colombian mercenaries backed Sudan's RSF - report,” BBC, 22 April 2026)
NIGERIA
Nigeria charges six suspects with terrorism charges over 2025 coup plot
On 21 April, Al Jazeera reported that Nigerian authorities had charged six individuals, including a retired major-general and a serving police inspector, with terrorism and treason over an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu. The case, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, accuses the suspects of “conspiring to wage war against the state,” while a seventh suspect, former Bayelsa governor Timipre Sylva, remains at large. Authorities also identified Colonel Mohammed Alhassan Ma’aji as the alleged mastermind. The charges follow earlier arrests of 16 military officers in 2025, initially dismissed as disciplinary issues before evolving into coup allegations. The development comes amid a broader wave of coups and attempted takeovers across West and Central Africa, raising concerns about regional instability despite Nigeria maintaining democratic rule since 1999. (“Nigeria charges six people with ‘terrorism’, treason over 2025 coup plot,” Al Jazeera, 21 April 2026)
CHAD
Chad to deploy troops to Haiti as part of UN mission
On 21 April, Africa News reported that Chad will deploy 1,500 troops to Haiti as part of a UN-backed multinational security mission to combat escalating gang violence. President Mahamat Idriss Deby said the contribution would include “two battalions of 750 personnel each,” reinforcing the Gang Suppression Force, which aims to expand to 5,500 troops. The mission, launched three years ago, seeks to support Haitian police as gangs tighten control over much of Port-au-Prince and expand nationwide. Deby highlighted Chad’s experience in international peacekeeping, including operations against Boko Haram. The deployment comes as Haiti faces worsening humanitarian conditions, with widespread killings, kidnappings, and displacement underscoring the urgency of international intervention. (“Chad announces deployment of troops to Haiti to help tackle gangs,” Africa News, 21 April 2026)