Photo : AP
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : AP
IN BRIEF
by Jerry Franklin
South Africa: President appoints judge to look into weapons supply allegations
On 29 May, Africanews reported that President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed Judge P.M.D. Mojapelo, as the chairman of a three-member panel to investigate the allegations of South Africa supplying ammunition to Russia made by the US. According to the president’s office, the panel was appointed owing to the serious impacts that the allegations could pose to the international relations of South Africa. The panel has been mandated to furnish details of persons aware of the ship’s arrival, the loaded and off-loaded cargo, and their departure and destination. (“South African president appoints judge to oversee the weapons-for-Russia inquiry,” Africanews, 29 May 2023)
Kenya: Russian Foreign Minister visits Nairobi unannounced
On 29 May, Moscow’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that Foreign Affairs Minister Sergey Lavrov would be visiting Nairobi to strengthen Russia-Kenya bilateral relations. Lavrov stated: “During our visit, we will discuss our cooperation in trade, investment, and economic spheres, humanitarian and cultural questions, education, cooperation in the UN, and many other issues.” The visit has been considered a tussle for influence as both Russia and Ukraine try to intensify their ties with the continent of 1.3 billion people. (“Lavrov in surprise Kenya visit after Ukraine FM trip to Africa,” Al Jazeera, 29 May 2023)
Sudan: The warring factions agree to extend the ceasefire
On 29 May, Al Jazeera reported that Sudan’s warring sides agreed to extend the week-long ceasefire as the two key international mediators were dissatisfied with the constant violations of the truce. The five-day extension of the ceasefire was announced in a joint statement by Saudi Arabia and the US. The report stated: “The extension will provide time for further humanitarian assistance, restoration of essential services, and discussion of a potential longer-term extension.” The warring sides were under pressure to extend the expiring ceasefire as the constant violations had impeded the delivery of humanitarian access and restoration of essential services. (“Sudan’s military, RSF agree ceasefire extension,” Al Jazeera, 29 May 2023)