Photo : BBC/AFP
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : BBC/AFP
MALI
Junta leader says situation “under control” after coordinated jihadist attacks
On 29 April, Africa News reported that Mali’s military leader, Assimi Goïta, said the situation in Mali was “under control” despite what he described as a crisis of “extreme gravity” following coordinated attacks by jihadist groups and Tuareg separatists that killed at least 23 people and targeted key military positions, including areas near the capital Bamako. The assault, one of the largest in decades, involved fighters from the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) and the Al-Qaeda-linked Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), and led to the death of Defence Minister Sadio Camara. Russian-backed forces from the Africa Corps withdrew from Kidal, raising doubts over the junta’s control as Goïta urged unity and vowed continued military operations. (“Mali's leader says situation 'under control' in first address since attacks,” Africa News, 29 April 2026)
MADAGASCAR
Madagascar expels French diplomat amid growing tensions
On 29 April, Africa News reported that Madagascar expelled a French diplomat, accusing them of involvement in alleged destabilisation activities, in a move highlighting rising tensions with former colonial power France. Authorities summoned Ambassador Arnaud Guillois before declaring an embassy staff member persona non grata, though details of the accusations were not disclosed. The development comes amid renewed political uncertainty under interim leader Michael Randrianirina, following protests that ousted former president Andry Rajoelina last October. Demonstrations have since resumed in Antananarivo, with Amnesty International warning of a “climate of fear” due to arrests, while the government alleges foreign involvement in unrest and a reported assassination plot. (“Madagascar expels French diplomat amid rising tensions,” Africa News, 29 April 2026)
GHANA
Ghana exits US aid talks over privacy concerns
On 29 April, Africa News reported that Ghana withdrew from negotiations on a multi-year US aid package after rejecting Washington’s alleged demand for access to citizens’ personal data, with a source saying the talks turned “hostile” as pressure increased. The proposed deal, reportedly worth USD 109 million over five years, was expected to fund programmes targeting HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis, though the US State Department declined to confirm details. The breakdown comes amid broader concerns over new bilateral agreements under the US “America First Global Health Strategy” following the dismantling of USAID, with countries such as Zimbabwe and Zambia rejecting similar proposals and Kenya suspending its deal over data-sharing concerns. (“Ghana quits US aid deal talks over privacy concerns,” Africa News, 29 April 2026)