Photo : AFP
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : AFP
IN BRIEF
by Anu Maria Joseph
South Africa: Russian warship arrives in Cape Town for joint military drills
On 13 February, a Russian warship docked in Cape Town harbour as part of South Africa’s previously announced joint military drill with China and Russia. The drills are expected to run for 10 days from 17 to 27 February in the port city of Durban and Richards Bay. The South African defence ministry defended the drills after facing severe criticism for its engagement with Russia by claiming that the country has hosted similar military exercises with France, the US and other western allies previously. (“Russian warship docks in S Africa ahead of joint drills,” BBC, 14 February 2023)
Kenya: President orders the army to join security operation amid increasing bandits attack
On 14 February, Kenyan President Willam Ruto ordered the army to join a security operation against the armed groups in the northern Rift Valley region. According to the interior ministry, more than 100 civilians were killed in attacks by armed men in the past six months. Besides, the government has been facing severe criticism for inadequate response to increasing security issues in the region. (“Kenya to deploy army as bandits kill over 100,” BBC, 14 February 2023)
Ukraine to launch training programme for African diplomats
On 14 February, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that the country has launched a “comprehensive” four-day online training programme for African diplomats, as an effort to strengthen relations with the continent. The ministry said that the agreement was reached in October 2022 during the foreign minister’s visit to Africa. Kuleba said: “During my tour, our African partners showed considerable interest in studying Ukrainian diplomatic experience.” He added: “The course developed is a continuation of the renaissance of relations between Ukraine and African countries, and will also be our practical contribution to strengthening the stability of the African continent.” (“Ukraine to train African diplomats amid Russia invasion,” BBC, 14 February 2023)