IN BRIEF
By Sayeka Ghosh

Sudan: SAF captures Wad Madani from RSF
On 12 January, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) captured Wad Madani city in the Gezira state from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The RSF leader, General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, acknowledged the loss and promised to continue the fight until victory, even if it took 20 more years. Apart from its proximity to Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, the city connects multiple states through its highways. (Jake Lapham and Youssef Taha, “Sudanese army captures key city from rebels,” BBC, 12 January 2025)

Chad: French withdrawl from Abeche base 
On 12 January, Africanews reported on the French military’s withdrawal from its base in Chad’s Abeche city. The ceremony was attended by Chad’s Minister of Defence, Issaka Maroua Djamous. After handing over the camp, Commander of French Forces in the Sahel, Colonel Boris Pomirol, stated that France’s friendly relations with Chad would endure “despite the departure of our troops.” Pomirol acknowledged that the French withdrawal symbolised Chad’s growing capabilities and ability to face the region’s security and humanitarian challenges. Furthermore, he insisted that the departure was “not a farewell from France, but a ‘see you later’ from its soldiers.” Two days before the handover, the troops sent their containers and heavy equipment to N’Djamena to be shipped to France via Cameroon. Previously, the base in Abeche was the site of frequent anti-French protests. (“France hands over Abeché base ahead of troop withdrawal,” Africanews, 12 December 2025)

Chad: President Deby’s party wins majority in disputed parliamentary elections
On 12 January, Al Jazeera reported that Chad’s President, Mahamat Idriss Deby, and his party, the Patriotic Salvation Movement secured a majority in the parliamentary elections, winning 124 out of 188 seats in the National Assembly. However, the elections, held on 29 December, had been boycotted by over ten opposition parties. These included the Transformers Party, whose candidate, Success Masra, previously secured second in Chad’s disputed 2024 presidential election. The Transformers denounced the results and called it a “charade.” The voter turnot was recorded at 51.56 per cent by the Electoral Commission. President Deby stated that the election would “pave the way for the era of decentralisation so long-awaited and desired by the Chadian people.” His party claimed that the polls marked the final stage of the country’s democratic transition. (“Chad’s ruling party wins majority in controversial parliamentary election,” Al Jazeera, 12 January 2025)

IN BRIEF
By Anu Maria Joseph

Sudan: Humanitarian disaster in Darfur, says UN
On 7 August, the UN stated that the humanitarian disaster in the Darfur region of Sudan was a complete disaster. The conflict between rival military factions has reached 16 months. The Director of Operations and Advocacy at the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Edem Wosornu, referred to the crisis as “an entirely man-made” and “a shameful stain on their collective conscience.” According to the UN, over 25.6 million people are experiencing severe hunger. Sudan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Al-Harith Idriss, stated: "Regarding the issue of famine, if we are experiencing a fifth or even a hundredth phase of IPC famine, we are ready to work together with you and will ensure the smooth delivery of humanitarian assistance." (“Essential supplies blockade threatens lives in North Darfur,” Africanews, 7 August 2024)

South Africa: Promises to implement NHI bill
On 7 August, South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that he would implement the National Health Insurance Bill, despite opposition. The bill aims to provide universal healthcare coverage for everyone. The bill is expected to limit the role of private health care, accessible to less than 16 per cent of the population. Critics claim that the bill will undermine widespread corruption and budget restraints. (“South Africa to implement National Health Insurance Bill despite resistance,” Africanews, 7 August 2024)

The Democratic Republic of Congo: UN supports SAMIDRC
On 7 August, the UNSC signed a resolution to enhance the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (MONUSCO) assistance to the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC). The resolution aims to provide technical support and facilitate logistical aid for medical evacuations and information sharing. The resolution was suggested by Sierra Leone and France. (“Coordinated efforts: UN supports SAMIDRC in Democratic Republic of Congo,” Africanews, 7 August 2024)

West Africa: Russia accuses Ukraine of opening ‘Africa front’ after Niger and Mali cut ties with Kyiv
On 7 August, Russia accused Ukraine of opening a “second front” in Africa after Mali and Niger broke off diplomatic relations with Ukraine. The ties were cut after Kyiv was accused of supporting “terrorist groups.” A Ukrainian military spokesperson, Andriy Yusov, stated that Malian rebels had “necessary” information on the operation, referring to an attack which killed several Malian soldiers and Russian mercenaries. The Malian military responded: “The government of the Republic of Niger learned with great amazement and deep indignation, the subversive and unacceptable remarks of Mr Andriy Yusov.” (“Russia accuses Ukraine of opening ‘African front’ as Niger cuts Kyiv ties,” Al Jazeera, 7 August 2024) 

IN BRIEF
By Samriddi Pathak

Mali: Cuts diplomatic ties with Ukraine
On 5 August, Mali cut off its diplomatic ties with Ukraine after it suffered a defeat fighting Tuareg rebels in July. The fight resulted in the death of 84 Wagner troops and 47 Malian soldiers. The development came after on 29 July the spokesperson for Ukraine’s military intelligence agency (GUR), Andriy Yusov, said that the rebels received “all the information they needed, which allowed [them] to carry out their operation against the Russian war criminals.” Malian military officials responded that Yusov had “admitted Ukraine’s involvement in a cowardly, treacherous and barbaric attack by armed terrorist groups that resulted in the death of members of the Malian Defence and Security Forces.” Soon after, it broke off relations with Ukraine. (“Mali cuts diplomatic ties with Ukraine over Wagner attack controversy,” Al Jazeera, 5 August 2024)

Somali: Police seize veils amidst security threats
On 5 August, Somali police confiscated hundreds of women’s veils, known as niqab, after receiving information that terrorists might be hiding to carry out attacks. Niqab is considered sacred in Islam, a religion that 99 per cent of the Somalian population follows. However, the majority of women wear a hijab and not a niqab. The awareness and activity by police comes after an attack at a beach area that killed 37 people. Somalia imposed a niqab ban in 2013 but seldom followed. (“Somali police seize hundreds of veils amid security fears,” BBC, 5 August 2024)

IN BRIEF
by Samruddi Pathak

Somalia: Attack near Lido beach 
On 3 August, at least 32 people were killed and 60 were injured in an armed attack near the Lido beach in Mogadishu. Al-Shabab has claimed responsibility for the attack. Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire stated: “The fact that the terrorist attack coincides with this night when the beach is the most congested shows the hostility of the terrorists to the Somali people.” The country has been fighting al-Shabab with the support of the US, the AU and other local armed groups for years. (“Several killed in al-Shabab beach attack in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu,” Al Jazeera, 3 August 2024)

IN BRIEF
Samruddi Pathak

Nigeria: A 24-hour curfew imposed 
On 2 August, the Nigerian government imposed a 24-hour curfew in Kano, Jigawa, Yobe and Katsina states. The curfew was imposed following a protest against the high cost of living was hijacked by looters and hooligans and police had to use tear gas. Shops were looted in Kano and a blast took place in Kawori which killed 16 people. Residents suspect involvement of Boko Haram behind the blast. (“Nigerians hit with 24-hour curfews amid protests,” BBC, 2 August, 2024)

South Africa: Miss South Africa finalist caught amid xenophobic sentiments
On 2 August, Miss South Africa, Chidimma Adetshina, was reported to be bullied online over her descent. Her father has Nigerian roots while her mother’s family comes from Mozambique. People are outraged by her South African representation. The phenomenon of xenophobia in South Africa is popularly called “Afrophobia.” (“Beauty contest sparks row over who counts as South African,” BBC, 2 August 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Samruddi Pathak

Democratic Republic of Congo: Angola mediates a truce between Rwanda and DRC
On 31 July, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo agreed on a ceasefire mediated by Angola. The ceasefire will begin on 4 August. The peace negotiation lasted for two weeks. DRC forces have been fighting M23 rebels in the eastern regions of the country since 2022. Rwanda has been allegedly supporting M23 rebels, a claim denied by the country. The conflict has killed thousands and displaced more than two million. (“Ceasefire agreed in eastern Congo conflict, mediator Angola says,” Reuters, 31 July 2024)

Kenya: Ruto’s Financial Act 2023 declared unconstitutional
On 31 July, the Kenyan Court of Appeal declared the Government’s Financial Act 2023 as unconstitutional. The three judge bench said that the Act does not comply with the constitutional dictates. In its defence, the government said that higher taxes are necessary to pay off debt and submitted a new economic plan to the IMF to receive funds. (“Kenyan court nullifies 2023 finance law in new blow to President Ruto,” Reuters, 31 July 2024)

Sudan: Military accuses paramilitary RSF of drone strike 
On 31 July, Sudan Military’s chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan survived an assassination attempt in a drone strike. The army spokesperson said that the army blames the Rapid Support Forces (RSP) of Sudan for the drone attack. However, the RSF has denied the accusations. The conflict between the military and the paramilitary has been going on for 16 months. The RSF has agreed to US-led mediation talks while General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has ruled out any possibility of it. (“Sudan's military leader survives drone strikes - army,” BBC, 31 July 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Samruddi Pathak

Morocco: France has backed Morocco’s claims over Western Sahara
On 30 July, France’s President, Emmanuel Macron, wrote a letter to the King of Morocco Mohammed VI, supporting the country’s sovereignty over the Western Sahara. Morocco has been fighting the Polisario Front, an Algeria-backed group, over the territorial claims since 1975. France, a former colonial power, has been involved in stabilising the region. (“France backs Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara,” Reuters, 30 July 2024) 

South Africa: Jacob Zuma expelled from the ANC
On 29 July, the African National Congress (ANC) expelled the former President and leader of the party, Jacob Zuma. The disciplinary committee of the ANC found Zumba guilty of “prejudicing the integrity” of the party by joining the uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party. Later, he took over the leadership of the MK party and headed the campaigns during the 2024 presidential elections. (“Ex-SA President Zuma expelled from ANC,” BBC, 30 July 2024) 

Ethiopia: World Bank approves USD 1.5 billion credit 
On 30 July, the World Bank approved a low-interest credit and a grant to Ethiopia worth USD 1.5 billion. Ethiopia has been struggling with a low-running debt economy. USD one billion will be given as a grant and later USD 500 million as a credit at a low interest. On 29 July, the country secured a USD 3.4 billion four-programme from the International Monetary Fund. The development comes after on 29 July, the Ethiopia Central Bank lifted its restrictions on foreign currency. However, Birr, Ethiopia’s currency, lost its value from 57.4 to 74.7 against one USD. The Central Bank stated that “banks are henceforth allowed to buy and sell foreign currencies from/to their clients and among themselves at freely negotiated rates” and that it would only make "limited interventions" in the FX markets. (“World Bank approves $1.5 billion in financing for Ethiopia,” Reuters, 30 July 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Samruddi Pathak

Mali: Tuareg coalition claims victory in Algerian border
On 28 July, the Tuareg separatist coalition in Mali decisively put the Mali army and Russian mercenaries on the backfoot after three days of intense fighting. Almost 20 Wagner group fighters lost their lives in the three-day intense fight. The Wagner group has been involved in the conflict since 2021. Colonel Assimi Goita, the military ruler of Mali expelled French forces out of the country in 2022, with the help of Russian mercenary group Wagner. (“Mali rebels claim major victory over army, Russian mercenaries,” Al Jazeera, 29 July 2024)

Ethiopia: Open markets for foreign currency
On 29 July, the Ethiopian Central Bank lifted its restrictions on foreign currency to secure funding from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). However, Birr, Ethiopia’s currency, lost its value from 57.4 to 74.7 against one USD. The Central Bank stated that “banks are henceforth allowed to buy and sell foreign currencies from/to their clients and among themselves at freely negotiated rates” and that it would only make "limited interventions" in the FX markets. (“Ethiopia adopts market-based FX system, birr currency slides,” Reuters, 29 July 2024)

IN BRIEF
Samruddi Pathak

Uganda: Capital fortified by the authorities
On 23 July, President Yoweri Museveni’s government fortified the capital Kampala. This development came after the young protesters announced a march towards the parliament. The protests are against corruption and the government’s failure to prosecute corrupt individuals. (“Heavy security patrols in Uganda's capital ahead of planned protest,” Reuters, 23 July 2024)

Ethiopia: Twin landslides claim over 100 lives
On 23 July, Al Jazeera reported over 100 deaths from two landslides in the region of Gofa zone. Al Jazeera quoted the Associated Press that 157 bodies have been recovered and the death toll would increase further. In May 2024, there was a mass internal displacement of people affected by floods in Ethiopia. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, “floods impacted over 19,000 people in several zones, displacing over a thousand and causing damage to livelihoods and infrastructure” in the region. Climate Change is said to be the driver of extreme weather events in the country. (“Over 100 people killed in twin Ethiopia landslides,” Al Jazeera, 23 July 2024)

IN BRIEF

By Samruddi Pathak

Kenya: Police brutality against protesters

On 22 July, BBC verified videos of police using water cannons, tear gas and bullets against the protesters. The protests have been continuing despite Kenyan President William Ruto agreeing to have talks with the protesters. The issues have shifted towards police brutality and the public's lack of trust in the system from the initial demands. Ruto alleged the Ford Foundation,---- of funding the protests. However, the allegations were not backed by any evidence. The protests have remained depoliticized so far. (“Batons, tear gas, live fire - Kenyans face Police Brutality,” BBC, 22 July 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Ayan Datta

Kenya: Anti-Ruto protests resume
On 17 July, according to BBC, anti-government protests resumed in Nairobi and other parts of the country, including Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru and Nyeri. One protestor was shot dead in a clash with security forces. The protests began in June against a finance bill introduced by President William Ruto, but the protesters' demands grew to demanding Ruto’s resignation. (“Protester killed as crowds call for Kenya leader to go,” BBC, 17 July 2024)

Guinea: Bar Association calls strike to protest military government’s undemocratic actions
On 17 July, according to BBC, the Equatorial Guinea Bar Association organised a lawyers’ strike against the military government’s “arbitrary arrests” and “secret detentions.” The Association’s spokesperson, Gabriel Kamano, stated that the “courts are not closed, but their activity is rather paralysed.” The Association said that the ban would last until 31 July, when the courts would deliver a verdict on former military ruler Dadis Camara, who was charged with crimes against humanity for ordering the shooting of protesters. The strike followed the arrests of government critics Oumar Sylla and Mamadou Bah. (“Guinea lawyers on strike over military crackdown,” BBC, 17 July 2024)

Libya: Mass grave found in former IS-controlled city
On 17 July, according to Africanews, Libya’s National Authority for Searching and Identifying Missing People stated that it found a mass grave with 24 bodies in the city of Sirte, which used to be controlled by the Islamic State (IS). The armed group controlled the city between 2011-2016 before US-backed troops expelled them. Multiple mass graves were discovered across Libya in recent years because of political turmoil and mass migration under dangerous conditions. (“Libyan authorities discover unidentified bodies in a former stronghold of the IS group,” Africanews, 17 July 2024)

South Africa: Zuma to face ANC disciplinary hearing
On 17 July, Africanews reported that South Africa’s former President and uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party leader, Jacob Zuma, would face a disciplinary hearing before the African National Congress (ANC) for campaigning against the party. The hearing would be held in the ANC’s Johannesburg headquarters. Although Zuma formed and campaigned for the MK party in the 2024 elections, he did not give up his ANC membership. (“Former South African President Zuma faces expulsion from ANC after joining a rival party,” Africanews, 17 July 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Ayan Datta

Democratic Republic of Congo: Yaka-led armed group kills nine soldiers amid inter-community conflict
On 16 July, according to Reuters, armed fighters from the Yaka-led armed group Mobondo killed nine soldiers of the DRC’s Armed Forces in the Mai-Ndombe province. In 2022, the Yaka and Teke communities were fighting each other to capture land along the Congo River. In April, President Felix Tshisekedi arranged a ceasefire between the two groups. However, the deal collapsed because traditional chiefs opposed it. (“West DR Congo militia kills nine soldiers at weekend, army spokesman says,” BBC, 16 July 2024)

Gambia: National Assembly rejects bill to reverse ban on female genital mutilation
On 16 July, according to BBC, members of the Gambia’s National Assembly voted against a bill to overturn the countrywide ban on female genital mutilation (FGM). The Assembly’s Speaker, Fabakary Tombong Jatta, stated that the bill was “rejected and the legislative process exhausted.” The bill was introduced in March with pressure from Muslim clerics. The Gambia has one of the highest rates of FGM, with around 70 per cent of women aged 15 to 49 years undergoing the procedure. (“Gambia FGM: Parliament rejects bill seeking to end ban,” BBC, 16 July 2024)

Kenya: 200 more police officers sent to Haiti to counter gang violence 
On 16 July, according to Africanews,  Kenya sent 200 police officers to Haiti as part of a UN-backed mission to combat gang violence. The deployment followed the 400 officers Kenya sent in June. Nairobi planned to send 1000 officers in total. However, the process suffered delays because of legal challenges. (“200 more Kenyan police deployed to tackle Haiti violence,” Africanews, 16 July 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Ayan Datta

Somalia: Five killed in Al Shabab bomb blast in Mogadishu
On 15 July, according to Reuters, a car bomb exploded near the Presidential Palace in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, killing five and injuring 20 people. The armed group Al Shabaab claimed responsibility for the attack. Despite losing territory to government forces, the group attacked Mogadishu to reassert its presence. (“Car bomb kills five, injures 20 outside restaurant in Somalia's capital,” Reuters, 15 July 2024)

South Africa: Ramaphosa advocates green energy to avoid international carbon taxes
On 15 July, according to Reuters, South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa said that carbon taxes proposed by developed countries would damage developing economies and urged the latter to transition to green energy. Ramaphosa stated: “Instruments like the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism ... (have) the potential to cause great damage to developing economies.” He added that “For decades our reliance on coal ... allowed us to produce electricity cheaply. But the world has changed and this dependency has come to pose significant risks.” (“South Africa's Ramaphosa urges green energy to avoid carbon border tax,” Reuters, 15 July 2024)

Rwanda: Kagame set to win presidential elections with over 99 per cent votes
On 15 July, Rwanda’s National Electoral Commission reported the partial results of the presidential elections held the same day. With 78.94 per cent of the votes counted, incumbent President Paul Kagame was set to win the elections, securing 99.15 per cent of the votes. Opposition leaders Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda and Independent candidate Phillipe Mpayimana won less than one per cent each. The NEC will announce the final results by 27 July. (“PARTIAL RESULTS OF THE PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS,” National Electoral Commission of Rwanda, 15 July 2024)

Nigeria: UAE reverses visa ban on Nigerians
On 15 July, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation stated that the United Arab Emirates would lift its visa ban on Nigerians after “mutually beneficial negotiations.” According to the “updated controls and conditions,” Nigerian visitors could apply for a visa after showing multiple documents, including identity proof and travel history. The UAE imposed visa restrictions on Nigerians in 2022 because of multiple factors, including improper conduct by Nigerian visitors, attempts by such visitors to circumvent visa rules, and the Nigerian government’s decision to reduce UAE-based Emirates Airlines’ flights to Nigeria. (“UAE lifts 2022 visa ban on Nigerians,” Africanews, 15 July 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Ayan Datta

Algeria: Opposition leader Louisa Hanoune quits presidential race
On 14 July, according to Africanews, Algerian Worker’s Party leader Louisa Hanoune quit the presidential race because of “unfair conditions.” Hanoune stated that the legal framework prevented President Abdelmajid Tebboune from contesting. (“Algeria: Key opposition figure quits presidential race,” Africanews, 14 July 2024)

Kenya: Eight bodies found near Nairobi police station, watchdog investigating police involvement  
On 14 July, according to BBC, Acting Inspector General of Kenya’s police Douglas Kanja Kirocho said that eight bodies were found in a garbage dump near Nairobi’s Kware police station. He added that the officers at the station were being transferred to ensure “fair and unbiased investigations” into the deaths. Kenya’s police watchdog, the Independent Police Oversight Authority, stated that it was investigating the police’s role in the deaths because of “widespread allegations of police involvement in unlawful arrests” during the ongoing anti-tax protests. (“Mukuru dump: Kenyan police relocated following body parts discovery,” BBC, 14 July 2024)

IN BRIEF 
By Ayan Datta

Rwanda: Presidential campaigns end, polls scheduled for 15 July
On 13 July, according to Africanews, campaigning for the presidential elections ended. President and leader of the Patriotic Front, Paul Kagame, held a massive rally in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali. Opposition leaders Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda and independent candidate Phillippe Mpayimana also held rallies. The elections will be held on 15 July. (“Rwanda prepares to vote in poll expected to be swept by Kagame,” Africanews, 13 July 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Ayan Datta

Nigeria: Seven dead and five injured in school collapse
On 12 July, according to Reuters, a school building collapsed in Nigeria’s Plateau state. Police and soldiers carried out rescue efforts at the scene. While five students were rescued alive, seven dead bodies were recovered. Building collapses were frequent in Nigeia because of loose regulations and substandard materials. (“At least seven bodies pulled from collapsed school in central Nigeria,” Reuters, 12 July 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Ayan Datta

Burkina Faso: Government bans same-sex unions 
On 11 July, according to BBC, Burkina Faso’s Minister of Justice Edasso Rodrigue Bayala stated that “the law will punish homosexuality and associated practices.” A new law would be passed by parliament and signed by military leader Ibrahim Traore, which would recognise only customary marriages. The ban is part of the government’s efforts to change marriage laws. (“Burkina Faso's military junta to ban homosexual acts,” BBC, 11 July 2024)

Kenya: Police Chief Koome resigns, Deputy Chief Douglas Kanja to take over 
On 11 July, according to BBC, Kenya Police Inspector-General Japhet Koome resigned. The decision followed President Ruto’s promise to take action against police officers who fired at civilians during protests. Deputy Inspector-General Douglas Kanja would start running the police force in Koome’s place. (“Kenya's police chief resigns after deadly anti-tax protests,” BBC, 11 July 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Ayan Datta

Democratic Republic of Congo: Uganda and Rwanda backing M23 group, says the UN
On 10 July, according to BBC, the UN Group of Experts Report on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) stated that Uganda and Rwanda were supporting the M23 armed group in DRC. The report stated that while Uganda sent military intelligence officers to coordinate with M23 leaders and allowed the armed group’s leader Sultani Makenga to travel to Uganda, Rwanda supplied around 4,000 troops to fight with M23. The report stated that the crisis was rapidly escalating and “carried the risk of triggering a wider regional conflict.” (“Uganda and Rwanda backing M23 rebels in DR Congo - UN experts,” BBC, 10 July 2024)

Kenya: Ruto dismisses cabinet, looking to form “broad-based government”
On 10 July, according to Reuters, Kenya’s President William Ruto dismissed his cabinet except Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Dr Musalia W Mudavadi. Ruto stated that he would “immediately engage in extensive consultations across different sectors and political formations and other Kenyans, both in public and private, with the aim of setting up a broad-based government.” He added that he would announce measures to tackle corruption. (“Kenyan president sacks cabinet, bowing to pressure from protests,” Reuters, 10 July 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Ayan Datta

Libya: UN to investigate mass graves along Libya-Tunisia border
On 9 July, according to Reuters, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Voltker Turk, stated that his office would follow up on reports on mass graves in the Libya-Tunisia border region. He stated that crimes against migrants in Libya and Tunisia were being committed “at scale, with impunity” by state and non-state actors. In March, around 65 migrants’ bodies were found at a mass grave in Libya’s al-Jahriya Valley region. (“UN probing reported mass grave on Libya-Tunisia border,” Reuters, 9 July 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Ayan Datta

Ethiopia: US Ambassador says 100 people kidnapped in a week
On 8 July, according to Reuters, the US Ambassador to Ethiopia Ervin Massinga said that around 100 people were kidnapped last week in the country. Massinga stated, “Recent and frequent kidnappings in Oromia and Amhara regions show how prolonged conflict emboldens criminals and weakens (the) rule of law.” According to the United Nations, in 2023, 1300 people were killed in kidnappings across the country. (“Over 100 people kidnapped for ransom in Ethiopia last week, US envoy says,” Reuters, 8 July 2024)

Somalia: Ugandan peacekeeper killed 
On 8 July, according to Reuters, Uganda’s military stated that Major Patrick Opio Awany was killed by a roadside bomb while commanding a convoy. He was part of the 5000 Ugandan peacekeepers serving under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). The Ugandan military’s spokesperson stated that armed group Al Shabaab was behind the attack. He added, “This attack won't deter us, it will instead stiffen our resolve to continue supporting peace efforts in Somalia.” (“Ugandan officer killed by roadside bomb in Somalia,” Reuters, 8 July 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Ayan Datta

Nigeria: AES confederation will disrupt integration and worsen instability, comments ECOWAS 
On 7 July, according to Reuters, ECOWAS stated that Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso’s decision to leave ECOWAS and form the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) confederation would “disrupt the freedom of movement and settlement of people” and worsen regional instability. The ECOWAS states’ leaders were gathered at a summit in Abuja to discuss the implications of the three countries' exit. (“West African bloc says it risks disintegration if junta-led states leave,” Reuters, 7 July 2024)

Niger: US troops leave Air Base 101
On 7 July, according to Reuters, the US military withdrew its troops from Air Base 101 in Niger’s capital Niamey. US Air Force Major General Kenneth Ekman said that next, the US would withdraw from Air Base 201, which was a drone base near central Niger’s Agadez region, by 15 September. The exit followed the Niger government’s April 2024 order to withdraw the 1,000 US soldiers stationed in the country. The same month, Niger’s government invited military instructors and troops from Russia. (“US troops pull out of Niger's Air Base 101,” Reuters, 7 July 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Ayan Datta

Niger: Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso leave ECOWAS, form Alliance of Sahel States (AES)
On 6 July, Reuters reported that Mali’s Interim President Assimi Goita, Niger’s President General Abdourahamane Tiani and Burkina’s Faso’s President Captain Ibrahim Traore withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) Confederation. Tiani stated, “It is up to us today to make the AES Confederation an alternative to any artificial regional group by building ... a community free from the control of foreign powers." The leaders released a joint communique agreeing to coordinate diplomatically and establish an AES investment bank and projects in mining, energy and agriculture. (“Junta-led Sahel states rule out return to West African economic bloc,” Reuters, 6 July 2024)

IN BRIEF 
By Ayan Datta

Ghana: Vice-President Bawumia chooses Minister of Energy as running mate 
On 5 July, Africanews reported that Ghana’s Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia chose Minister of Energy Matthew Opuku Prempeh as his running mate for the presidential election in December. Prempeh was a former Minister of Education and lawmaker. The duo will contest against former President John Dramani Mahama. The incumbent President Nana Akufo-Addo would resign from office in January 2025 following the election. (“Ghana's presidential candidate Bawumia chooses energy minister as running mate,” Africanews, 5 July 2024)

Africa: UN joint report says land route twice as deadly for African migrants than Mediterranean rote 
On 5 July, according to Africanews, a joint report published by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Mixed Migration Centre titled “On this Journey, No One Cares If You Live or Die.” African migrants and refugees taking the land route to Europe through the Sahara are twice as likely to be killed as on sea routes across the Mediterranean Sea. UNHCR's Special Envoy for the Central Mediterranean Situation, Vincent Cochetel, stated: “Many people tell us that they are aware of someone who has died on the way, normally more on the land routes than on the sea routes… risk of kidnapping seems to be a new one. It used to be mentioned by 2% of the respondents four years ago. Now it is mentioned by 18% of the respondents. Almost one out of five claims that the journey involved that risk of kidnapping.” (“Land routes through Africa are twice as dangerous for migrants and refugees,” Africanews, 5 July 2024)

Niger: US military to withdraw from Air Base 101 
On 5 July, according to Reuters, US Air Force Major General Kenneth Ekman said that the US military would withdraw its troops from Niger’s Air Base 101 by 07 July and eventually from its drone base in Niger. Erkman stated: “We will do a joint ceremony on that occasion that marks the departure of the last U.S. C-17 (aircraft). The government of Niger will assume control of former U.S. areas and facilities.” Previously, Niger’s military government ordered the US to withdraw its around 1,000 troops from the country. (“US to complete withdrawal from Niger's Air Base 101 on Sunday,” Reuters, 5 July 2024)

Kenya: President Ruto holds online discussion with protesters 
On 5 July, according to BBC, Kenya’s President William Ruto held a live discussion with protesters on X Spaces. Protesters asked Ruto whether he tried to reach out to the families of those who died or were injured in the protests if he cared about the people who elected him, and complained about the incompetence of Ruto’s cabinet secretaries. The X Space had around 163,000 participants. (“Kenya X Space: President William Ruto speaks to online army,” BBC, 5 July 2024)

IN BRIEF 
By Ayan Datta

Democratic Republic of the Congo: Armed Forces tribunal sentences 25 soldiers to death
On 4 July, according to Reuters, an Armed Forces tribunal in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) sentenced 25 soldiers to death for leaving their positions while fighting Rwanda-backed armed group M23 and stealing goods from a nearby village. The DRC’s Armed Forces set up a tribunal to try the men in North Kivu province’s Alimbongo province. The military tribunal sentenced 25 of the soldiers to death, awarded one a 10-years in prison and acquitted another. In May, the Armed Forces lifted its moratorium on the death penalty (instituted in 2000) to tackle rising cases of treason and espionage during the conflict. The army has been fighting the M23 since 2022. (“DR Congo soldiers sentenced to death for fleeing battle,” Reuters, 4 July 2024)

Democratic Republic of the Congo: US mediates humanitarian truce in eastern DRC
On 4 July, according to The White House, US National Security Council (NSC) Spokesperson Adrienne Watson announced a two-week-long “humanitarian truce” between the DRC’s Armed Forces, M23 in eastern DRC, mediated by US Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines. The truce resulted from Haines’ visits to Rwanda in November and talks with DRC’s President Felix Tshikedi and his Rwandan counterpart, Paul Kagame. The White House stated that the truce would “ease the suffering of vulnerable populations,” including over 100,000 displaced people. It added that the US Government would “continue to use its intelligence and diplomatic resources to monitor activities by armed forces and non-state armed groups” during the truce. (“Statement from NSC Spokesperson Adrienne Watson Welcoming the Humanitarian Truce in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo,” The White House, 4 July 2024)

Sudan: 136,000 people displaced in a week 
On 4 July, Reuters reported that over 136,000 people fled southeastern Sudan’s Sennar state between 24 June and 4 July because of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) attacks in the region. This was the latest wave of displacement caused by the 15-month-long civil war between the Sudan Army and the RSF. The displaced people waded across the Blue Nile towards neighbouring states. Before the attacks, the state contained 285,000 people, mostly displaced from Sudan’s Khartoum and al-Gezira states. (“More than 136,000 displaced by spread of war in southeast Sudan, UN says,” Reuters, 4 July 2024)

Nigeria: Nigeria wins bid to headquarters African Energy Bank
On 4 July, Reuters reported that Nigeria won the bid to be the headquarters of the newly formed Africa Energy bank. The country’s Minister of State Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri, stated that the African Petroleum Producers Organisation (APPO) decided following a meeting of their Council of Ministers. The African Energy Bank was a partnership between Afrexim Bank and APPO and would fund energy projects in Africa to invest in oil and gas projects in Africa. (“Nigeria beats rivals for bid to host new Africa Energy Bank,” Reuters, 4 July 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Ayan Datta

Kenya: Activists rethinking strategies after 2 July violence
On 3 July, Reuters reported that activists who participated in Kenya’s anti-government protests were rethinking their strategies after violence and looting in their 02 July protest. They feared that such incidents could undermine their objectives of making President William Ruto resign. Activist Ojango Omondo said that the violence was caused by “goons” who used the state “to incite violence, break into people’s property, loot and tarnish our cause.” He added it was “time to go back to the drawing board and strategise on how best to overcome this violence and keep our protest focused on their objectives.” (“Kenyan activists rethink strategy after protests turn violent,” Reuters, 3 July 2024)

Kenya: Prime Minister Conille calls Kenyan police arrival a “new era” for Haiti
On 3 July, Reuters reported that Haiti’s Prime Minister Garry Conille stated before the UN Security Council that the arrival of Kenyan police officers under the UN-backed Multinational Security Support group marked a “new era in Haiti” critical for restoring security against gang violence. While 200 Kenyan police arrived last week, the full force of 2,500 officers would come later. (“Kenyan police arrival in Haiti marks new era for security, prime minister tells UN,” Reuters, 3 July 2024)

Sierra Leone: First Lady organises ceremony celebrating new bill banning child marriage
On 3 July, according to BBC, Sierra Leone’s First Lady Fatima Bio organised a ceremony in the country’s capital, Freetown, celebrating a new law banning child marriage. The law prohibited the marriage of girls below the age of 18 and set a punishment of 15 years imprisonment or a USD 4000 fine, or both, for offenders. Under the new law, the groom, the bride's parents and guardians, and wedding attendees were liable to face punishment. Bio said that child marriage was similar to “talking away a child’s dream and destroy(ing) them even before they know who they are.” President Julius Maada Bio stated that his “motivation and commitment to empowering women and girls is firmly rooted in my personal life journey.” ( “Sierra Leone child marriage ban welcomed as President Julius Maada Bio signs law,” BBC, 3 July 2024) 

Egypt: New cabinet sworn in; reshuffles in electricity, foreign affairs, and defence
On 3 July, according to Africanews, a new Cabinet took their oaths in a ceremony in Egypt’s presidential palace. The Cabinet saw major reshuffles in defence. Mahmud Esmat became Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy. Former diplomat Badr Abdelatty replaced Sameh Shoukry as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Migration. General Abdel Majeed Sakr replaced General Mohamed Zaki as Minister of Defence. The new cabinet also included four women and multiple technocrats. (“Egypt swears in new Cabinet as mounting economic challenges mount,” Africanews, 3 July 2024) 

IN BRIEF
By Ayan Datta

Egypt: Cabinet reshuffled; new foreign, finance, and supplies ministers 
On 2 July, Reuters reported that Egypt’s cabinet would be reshuffled. The foreign, finance, petroleum, electricity and supply ministers would be changed. Badr Abdelatty, Egypt’s Ambassador to the European Union, Badr Abdelatty, would replace Sameh Shoukry as Minister of Foreign Affairs. Ahmed Kouchuk, deputy former Minister of Finance Mohammed Maait, would take the latter’s position. Sherif Farouk, former chairman of Egypt Post, would replace Ali Moselhy as Minister of Supplies. The Ministries of Electricity and Petroleum would also have new Ministers but did not announce their replacements. (“Egypt set to change finance, foreign and supply ministers,” Reuters, 2 July 2024)

Burkina Faso: Government accused of conscripting critics 
On 2 June, Reuters reported that Amnesty Internationa and Human Rights Watch criticised Burkina Faso’s military government for abducting and conscripting its critics. So far, 19 such abductions have been confirmed. Victims described the conditions as “arbitrary and punitive.” The abductions increased after Captain Ibrahim Traore came to power in 2022 after a coup. (“Insight: How Burkina Faso's junta is conscripting critics to fight Islamist rebels,” Reuters, 2 July 2024)

Zambia: World Bank approves USD 208 million for drought assistance 
On 2 June, Reuters reported that the World Bank approved a US 208 million grant for Zambia to address the social and economic effects of its ongoing drought. Zambia’s Ministry of Finance stated that the grant would help “over 1.6 million households across 84 drought-impacted districts with emergency cash assistance over a 12-month period” and strengthen social protection programmes. Previously, Zambia had declared a state of disaster because of the drought and sought international assistance. The El Nino effect and greenhouse gas emissions caused the drought. (“World Bank approves $208 million for Zambia's drought response,” Reuters, 2 July 2024)

Central African Republic: UNICEF says children worst deprived in the world 
On 2 June, according to Reuters, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) stated that children in the Central African Republic (CAR) were the worst deprived in the world because of malnourishment, inadequate healthcare access and political instability. UNICEF Representative in the CAR, Meritzell Relano Arana, stated that the country’s children “face the highest registered level of overlapping and interconnected crises and deprivation in the world.” She added that the conditions of CAR’s children were “painfully invisible” to the world because of the focus on the war in Gaza. (“Central African Republic's children are world's most deprived, UNICEF says,” Reuters, 2 July 2024)

IN BRIEF 
By Ayan Datta

Kenya: Ruto to borrow one trillion shillings after scrapping finance bill
On 1 July, according to BBC, Kenya’s President William Ruto stated that the country would have to borrow one trillion shillings ( USD 7.6 billion) “to be able to run our government” because of protests against the now-scrapped finance bill. The bill had promised tax increases, which were unpopular and led to massive protests. Ruto said that since the money could not be raised from taxes, the government would have to increase borrowings by 67 per cent. In the finance bill, extra taxes would raise around 350 billion Kenyan shillings, and around 600 billion would be borrowed. However, now the whole amount would have to be borrowed. (“Kenya to borrow more after new taxes withdrawn - president,” BBC, 1 July 2024

Nigeria: Female suicide bomber suspected to have killed over 30 people
On 1 July, according to BCC, Nigeria’s Vice President stated that over 30 people died in multiple blasts suspected to have been carried out by female suicide bombers. The attacks happened on 30 May and targeted a wedding, a funeral and a hospital. President Bola Tinubu called the blasts “desperate acts of terror.” His spokesperson stated that the government would “not to allow the nation to slither into an era of fear, tears, sorrow, and blood.” Although no group claimed responsibility for the attack, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) or Boko Haram previously carried out such blasts in the past. (“Suspected female suicide bombers death toll rises to more than 30 in Nigeria,” BBC, 1 July 2024)

Mauritania: President Ghazouani re-elected by a comfortable margin
On 1 June, according to BBC, Mauritania’s incumbent President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani was re-elected. He won with 56 per cent of the vote in the first round of polling, without the need for run-off elections. Anti-slavery activist Biram Dah Abeid secured second position with 22 per cent, and Hamidi Sidi el-Mokhtar secured third place with 13 per cent. Abeid refused to accept the results, calling it an “electoral coup.”55 per cent of the electorate turned out to vote. (“Mauritanian president comfortably wins re-election,” BBC, 1 June 2024)

IN BRIEF
Ayan Datta

South Africa: Ramaphosa appoints cabinet of national unity government 
On 30 June, Reuters reported that South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the cabinet of his national unity government. Ramaphosa included the former opposition leader and head of the Democratic Alliance (DA) party, John Steenhuisen, as Minister of Agriculture. ANC leaders Enoch Gondohgwana and Gwede Matashe were retained as Ministers of Finance and Mineral and Petroleum Resources. At the same time, Ronald Lamola was appointed the new Minister of International Relations and Cooperation. However, Ramaphosa removed the Ministry of Energy from Matashe’s portfolio and placed it under Minister of Electricity Kgosientsho Ramaskopa. Ramaphosa stated, “These men and women we have appointed to the executive ... reflect the diversity of our nation...n the spirit of partnership and collaboration, the incoming government will work together.” Steenhuisen stated, “We look forward to being part of a new era in South Africa’s democratic journey, and to bringing real and tangible change to the millions of citizens who voted for it.” (“South Africa's Ramaphosa announces cabinet that includes ex-opposition leader,” BBC, 30 June 2024)

IN BRIEF 
By Ayan Datta

Kenya: Independent Policing Oversight Authority to investigates shooting of protesters
On 29 June, according to BBC, Kenya’s Independent Policing Oversight Authority began investigating allegations that officers killed protesters outside the country's Parliament and in central Nairobi’s Githurai. Kenya’s National Commission on Human Rights said it "received unverified reports of scores of residents who were killed by the stray bullets." Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo called for an international investigation into the “massacre” at Githurai. (“Kenya finance bill protests: Was there a massacre in Githurai?,” BBC, 29 June 2024)

Mauritania: Elections scheduled for 29 June
On 29 June, BBC reported that Mauritania would hold presidential elections on the same say. The country faced multiple issues, including slavery, migration, corruption and jihadists. Mauritania was the world’s last country to make slavery illegal in 1981. However, according to the Global Slavery Index (GSI), around 149,000 Mauritanians were still enslaved. Migration was another issue for Mauritania’s electorate. The country was a transit point for West African migrants heading to Europe. Corruption was a critical problem for the people, with former President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz being jailed for embezzlement and illegally enriching himself. Since Mauritania is located in the Sahel region, jihadists were another problem for it. However, because of President Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ghazouani’s military background, the problem was tackled well recently. (“Mauritania election: Jihadist, migration, slavery the key issues,” BBC, 29 June 2024)

Kenya: Law Society says police abducted and tortured protesters
On 29 June, BBC, according to BBC, the Law Society of Kenya, said that police abducted protesters who were demonstrating against the government’s finance bill and traumatised them. However, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura stated that “criminal elements who wanted a coup d’etat” tried to misuse the peaceful protests. However, some detainees said the police confiscated their phones and laptops and tortured them. (“Kenya finance bill: Anti-tax protesters traumatised by abductions, say lawyers,” BBC, 29 June 2024)

South Africa: Parliament to open on 18 July
On 28 June, according to Africanews, South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa said that Parliament would open for its upcoming term on 18 July. Ramaphosa will negotiate with coalition partners to form a Cabinet before that date. Disagreements over Cabinet positions were straining the national unity government. Leaked letters revealed that Ramaphosa accused Democratic Alliance party leader John Steenhuisen of “moving the goalposts” and demanding eight cabinet positions. The DA replied that Ramaphosa reneged on his promise to give the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition to the DA. Steenhuisen’s party might leave the National Unity government. However, African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula stated that the parties were “almost done” with a final agreement which would be “in the best interest of all South Africans.” (“South Africa’s Parliament to open on July 18 – President,” Africanews, 29 June 2024)

IN BRIEF
Ayan Datta

Republic of Congo: President visits Russia
On 27 June, Africanews reported on the Republic of Congo’s President Denis Sassou Nguesso's visit to Russia. The trip is expected to conclude agreements on energy, trade and security cooperation. This is Nuguesso’s second visit to Moscow this year. Russian President Vladimir Putin stated: “You took part in two Russia-Africa summits, and you are making the necessary efforts to develop our cooperation in almost all areas, I mean the political level, and recently trade and economic relations have been noticeably developing. We are grateful to you for your joint work on the international stage. Overall, everything is working out for us.” Nguesso responded: "We would like to discuss with you and other officials the best way to advance the cooperation between our countries in all the fields, including economy, finance, defense, and security. We need security nowadays.” (“Russian, Congolese leaders hold talks in Moscow,” Africanews, 27 June 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Ayan Datta

Kenya: Violent protests
On 25 June, according to Al Jazeera, Kenyan police shot and killed 13 people who were rallying against the government’s finance bill. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated that security forces should “exercise restraint” and protestors should demonstrate peacefully.

The same day, according to BBC, protestors broke into Kenya’s parliament complex, vandalised its interiors and set parts of the complex on fire. The police shot dead five protesters and used rubber bullets and tear gas to control the crowd. The protestors were rallying against the government’s recent finance bill, which included multiple tax rises. Kenya’s President William Ruto also deployed the military and said that the government would “thwart any attempts by dangerous criminals to undermine the security and stability of our country.”

On 26 June, according to BBC, Kenya’s President William Ruto said that the government would use all instruments at its disposal to prevent a repeat of the 25 June violence between protesters and the police. He said that “legitimate” protests against his finance bill were “hijacked by a group of organised criminals.” The protestors had set fire to the Nairobi governor’s office, the City Hall and Kenya’s parliament. They organised the protests to oppose Ruto’s corrupt government and his finance bill, which raised taxes on healthcare and housing. However, Ruto argued that the tax increases were necessary to prevent Kenya from defaulting on its foreign debts. (“Kenya tax protests: Five reported killed in capital Nairobi,” BBC, 25 June 2024; “Kenya tax protests updates: 13 killed as demonstrations rock country,” Al Jazeera, 25 June 2024; “Kenya's president faces tough choices after day of bloodshed,” BBC, 26 June 2024)

Minsk: Lavrov says exploitation continues in Africa through economic methods
On 25 June, according to Africanews, Russia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sergei Lavrov, said, “In Africa, many countries are increasingly asserting their national interests and understanding that exploitation continues, but through different economic methods.” He added that African states “wanted to be independent and seek mutually respectful partnerships.” Lavrov was speaking in Minsk during an official visit to Belarus. (““Exploitation continues in Africa, but through economic methods,” Lavrov,” Africanews, 25 June 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Ayan Datta

Sudan: UNICEF says Sudan is one of the worst places for children
On 24 June, according to BBC, the Executive Director of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Catherine Russel, stated that Sudan was one of the world’s worst places for children. Russel said Sudan had the largest number of displaced children in the world. Nine million did not get enough food, around four million faced acute malnutrition, and five million were without schooling. Russel said the crisis was “100% man made.” The ongoing civil war between Sudan’s military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) was the main reason behind the humanitarian situation because it destroyed Sudan’s food economy and displaced local populations. (“Sudan's children going hungry as famine looms,” BBC, 24 June 2024)

Russia: Wagner focussed on Africa after a failed coup
On 24 June, BBC reported that Wagner Private Military Company chief Yevgeny Prigozhin reached a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin after his failed coup against the latter. According to the deal, Progozhin would focus the Wagner’s operations in Africa, securing friendly regimes and resources for Russia. Russia offered African states “regime survival packages” in exchange for access to natural resources. Wagner was incorporated into Russia’s Africa Corps and now works as a military intelligence group. Ruslan Trad, resident fellow at the Atlantic Council, said that in Africa, the group was involved in “guarding trade routes, securing resources that Moscow uses to circumvent sanctions, and more - serving local juntas and directing the flow of migrants.” Moscow allowed Prigozhin’s son Pavel to continue the group’s operations in Africa provided he did not violate Russia’s interests. (“Wagner uprising: A year after mutiny, Russia controls group's remnants,” BBC, 24 June 2024)

Kenya: Police officers depart for Haiti mission
On 24 June 2024, BBC reported that 400 Kenyan police officers will depart for a mission to Haiti to combat powerful criminal gangs in the country. The gangs controlled parts of Haiti’s territory and carried out violence against civilians. Kenya’s President William Ruto stated that it was “a mission to affirm the universal values of the community of nations, a mission to take a stand for humanity.” (“Kenyan police to depart for contentious peacekeeping effort in Haiti,” BBC, 24 June 2024)

Republic of Congo: President Nguesso meets Putin
On 24 June, according to Africanews, Congo’s President Dennis Sassou Nguesso was expected to meet Putin in Moscow. The two heads of government discuss economic, trade, energy and security cooperation. Nguesso’s trip followed the previous visit to Congo by Russia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sergei Lavrov. (“Congolese President visits Moscow in bid to deepen ties,” Africanews, 24 June 2024)

IN BRIEF
By Ayan Datta

Madagascar: France funds to install cable car
On 23 June, Africanews reported that Madagascar introduced cable cars as a new means of public transport. Secretary of State for New Towns and Housing, Gérard Andriamanohisoa, said that the cars would “remove 75,000 passengers every day, at bus level, remove 2,000 cars at Tana Road level,” and improve carbon savings and mobility. France provided a EUR 152 million loan for the project. However, the public has complained that the government focussed on cable cars and not on basic social problems including water and electricity. (“Madagascar's capital launches cable cars to ease traffic jam,” Africanews, 23 June, 2024) 

Niger: Armed group damages oil pipeline to Benin
On 23 June, according to BBC, Niger’s military government confirmed that the Patriot Liberation Front damaged an oil pipeline connecting Niger with Benin. Trade relations between the two have remained tense over Niger’s allegations that Benin was hosting French troops and the arrest of five Niger citizens at an oil port. However, the relations normalised with China’s assistance. (“Niger-Benin oil pipeline: Junta admits rebels attack,” BBC, 23 June 2024)

Malawi: Top comedian Usi becomes Vice-President
On 23 June, BBC reported that comedian-turned-politician Michael Usi was sworn in as Malawi’s Vice President. Usi replaced Saulos Chilima, who died in a plane crash in May. Before becoming Vice President, Usi was an actor, comedian and a celebrity on television and radio. He was the leader of the movement Odya zale alibe Mulandu, which became part of Chilima’s UTM party. From July 2020 to February 2023, he was cabinet minister for tourism, culture and wildlife. He then became Minister of Natural Resources and Climate Change. However, Usi’s swearing-in divided the party, with many UTM leaders not attending the swearing-in ceremony. (“Comedian Michael Usi becomes Malawi's vice-president after Saulos Chilima's death,” BBC, 23 June) 

IN BRIEF
Ayan Datta

Rwanda: Candidates begin campaigning for the 15 July presidential elections
On 22 June, Africanews reported that Rwanda began campaigning for the presidential elections. The elections are scheduled for 15 July. Three candidates are running for the elections- Paul Kagame, incumbent President and leader of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) party; Frank Habineza, leader of the Democratic Green party; and Phillipe Mpayimana, an independent candidate. (“Rwanda: A campaign period of three weeks to convice voters,” Africanews, 22 June 2024)

Rwanda: Deadly stampede at Kagame rally
On 22 June, one person died, 37 were injured, and four were hospitalised after a stampede in President Paul Kagame’s campaign rally in the Rubavu district. Around 250,000 people attended the rally. The same day, parties began campaigning for the 15 July general election. Rwanda’s Ministry of Local Government stated that people should “follow the instructions given by those in charge to ensure the safety and tranquillity of those participating in campaign activities.” (“Rwanda 2024 election: One killed in Paul Kagame rally crush in Rubavu,” BBC, 22 June 2024)

IN BRIEF

Shilpa Joseph

Africa: World leaders to invest on vaccine production

On 20 June, at the Global Forum for Vaccine Sovereignty and Innovation in France, an African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator was launched to provide financial incentives for local vaccine manufacturers in Africa. The French President Emmanuel Macron proposed USD 1.1 billion and the EU pledged USD 800 million to the scheme. Africa was unfairly locked out of access to treatment tools, vaccines and testing equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic. The African Union (AU) Commission Chief Moussa Faki Mahamat approved the initiative stating: “It could become a catalyst for promoting the pharmaceutical industry in Africa and fostering collaboration between member states.” (“World leaders launch programme to boost vaccine production in Africa | Health News,” Al Jazeera, 20 June 2024)

Somalia: Government seeking slow withdrawal of ATMIS troops

On 20 June, Al Jazeera reported that Somalia's government wrote a letter to the African Union Peace and Security Council in May 2024 seeking a slow withdrawal of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), fearing a potential security vacuum. In a joint assessment in March, the government recommended that the AU withdraw in a timely manner according to the capabilities and readiness of Somali forces. National Security Adviser Hussein Sheikh-Ali explained the need for the postponement, fearing the al-Shabab resurgence. (“Somalia asks peacekeepers to slow withdrawal, fears armed group resurgence,” Al Jazeera, 20 June 2024)

Libya: UN representative expresses the need for elections

On 19 June, the UN deputy representative, Stephanie Koury, told the UN Security Council that the current divisions between political players are unsustainable and that Libya needs an election. Following the death of dictator Muammar Gaddafii in 2011, rival administrations took over in the east and west backed by militias and foreign governments respectively. Sierra Leone, Algeria, Mozambique, and Guyana have emphasized the UNSCs commitment to an inclusive Libyan-led political process facilitated by the UN. Libya’s UN Ambassador Taher El-Sonni, expressed worry over UNSC’s inactivity, stating: “We are tired and fed up with using Libya as a proxy for certain countries and regional powers for selfish greedy battles, some of which have colonial ambitions.” (“Libyans demand elections and unity, says UN envoy,” Africanews, 20 June 2024)

Kenya: Protests against tax hikes 

On 20 June, Kenyan police used tear gas and water cannon on protesters gathered near the parliament against planned tax hikes. President William Ruto had introduced a new bill with taxes to raise 1.9 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to pay off debts. Following the violent protests on 17 June, Ruto announced several concessions to the bill. The protestors claim that the new taxation would increase the burden on the public and the young population. The government has additionally increased fuel prices and export taxes, which would further inflation. (“Kenya police use tear gas, water cannon as hundreds protest over tax hikes,” Al Jazeera, 20 June 2024)

IN BRIEF

Shilpa Joseph

South Africa: President Cyril Ramaphosa sworn in for second term

On 19 June, President Cyril Ramaphosa sworn in for his second term. At the ceremony, he announced the beginning of a “new era” referring to the country’s first coalition. The ANC has formed a coalition with its major opponent, Democratic Alliance (DA) and three smaller parties. Calling for cooperation among his colleagues, he stated: "They have directed their representatives to put aside animosity and dissent, to abandon narrow interests, and to pursue together only that which benefits the nation." Although the two parties are ideologically at odds, they have agreed on a common agenda to focus on the country’s infrastructure, providing basic services, and creating jobs. Chief Justice Raymond Zondo administered the oath of office. The opposition party, MK, led by Jacob Zuma boycotted the parliament’s first sitting. (“Cyril Ramaphosa vows 'new era' for South Africa at presidential inauguration,” BBC, 19 June 2024)

Democratic Republic of Congo: M23 rebel attack kills five civilians

On 19 June, a bombardment in eastern Congo's North Kivu province killed five people, including three women and a girl in an M23 rebel attack. The Congo army accused the M23 rebel group of the attack. The blasts in the city led to many people evacuating the area. (“DR Congo says five people killed in rebel bombing of eastern town,” Reuters, 19 June 2024)

Egypt: Amnesty report on inhuman treatment of refugees from Sudan

On 19 June, a report published by Amnesty International stated that Egypt deported thousands of Sudanese refugees and arrested many unlawfully. It documented 12 instances where Egyptian authorities returned 800 Sudanese nationals without allowing them to claim asylum or challenge deportation decisions. There was an additional case of 27 Sudanese refugees arrested between October 2023 and March 2024, 26 of whom were collectively expelled. The group claimed that refugees were held in inhuman conditions before their deportation. While Egypt's National Council for Human Rights denied these claims and asserted that they respected international law, Egypt's State Information Service did not respond to the report. (“Egypt unlawfully deported Sudanese refugees, rights group says,” Reuters, 19 June 2024)

IN BRIEF

Shilpa Joseph 

Kenya: Protests against tax hikes

On 18 June, more than 200 protesters were arrested in Kenya after the proposed tax hikes in a finance bill. The police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the protestors. Since 2022, President William Ruto implemented several harsh taxes to eliminate the national debt of nearly USD 80 billion. However, at a press meeting Kuria Kimani, chairman of the parliamentary finance committee announced the scraping off of the proposals in response to the protests against increasing cost of living of the people. He announced the reversal of the eco tax on packaging, plastics and tyres and on key goods such as nappies, sanitary towels, computers and mobile phones. Additionally, a 1.5 per cent monthly worker housing levy has been introduced. The 2.5 per cent motor vehicle annual tax that was to be placed on insurance were also amended after the demonstrations. (“More than 200 arrested in Kenya protests over proposed tax hikes in finance bill,” Africanews, 18 June 2024; “Kenya finance bill 2024: Bread and other tax proposals axed amid public outcry,” BBC, 18 June 2024)

IN BRIEF

Shilpa Joseph

South Africa: Zuma to join an opposition bloc

On 16 June, South Africa’s former President Jacob Zuma announced his party uMkhonto weSizwe (MK)’s decision to join the opposition alliance. He described the ruling partnership as a “white-led unholy alliance between the DA and the ANC of Ramaphosa.” On 17 June, the ANC announced that the Good Party, would join the ruling coalition. (“Jacob Zuma's MK party to join South Africa's opposition alliance,” BBC, 17 June 2024)

Rwanda: Presidential and parliamentary elections announced

On 14 June, the Rwanda National Electoral Commission announced the presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled for 15 July 2024. Paul Kagame, Rwanda's president will stand against two other presidential candidates, Frank Habineza of the opposition Democratic Green Party and an independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana. For the last three elections, Kagame won securing more than 90 per cent of the votes. (“Rwanda: Two candidates up against Paul Kagame in July 15 poll,” Africanews, 17 June 2024)

IN BRIEF

Ayan Datta

Burkina Faso: Armed group attack soldiers

On 16 June, Al Jazeera reported that more than 100 Burkina Faso soldiers in the Niger border were killed by an armed group linked to al-Qaeda, Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM). The SITE Intelligence Group stated that “fighters stormed a military post in the town, where they killed 107 soldiers and took control of the site.” The attack was one of the deadliest ones that the government and the country army struggled with. Nearly 50,000 soldiers are fighting in the region against insurgency. According to Ulf Laessing, head of the Sahel programme at the Konrad Adenauer Foundation: “Burkina Faso is the smallest of the three and very densely populated … Whenever the army attacks, you have many more civilian victims, that makes it so brutal.” (“Al-Qaeda affiliate claims responsibility for June attack in Burkina Faso,” Al Jazeera, 16 June 2024)

IN BRIEF

Ayan Datta

Sudan: Iran and UAE accused of supplying arms 

On 13 June, the BBC reported that Iran and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) had been accused of violating a 2005 UN arms embargo to Sudan. Dutch peace organisation PAX’s Humanitarian Disarmament Project Leader Wim Zwijnenburg analysed videos of the conflict on Twitter and said that Sudan’s Armed Forces used Iran-made drones, Mohajer-6 and Ababil-3. Amnesty International Crisis Team’s Weapons Investigator Brian Castner said that the UAE supplied drones to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces. (“Sudan war: Evidence that Iran and UAE drones used,” BBC, 13 June 2024)

South Africa: Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) agrees to join national unity government

On 13 June, the President of the Inkatha Freedom Party, Velenkosini Hlabisa, said that he would join the national unity government with the African National Congress and the Democratic Alliance. Hlabisa said: “The only options were to become part of the government or part of the opposition." This was also the first official admission by any party in South Africa that a national unity government would be formed. (“South Africa election: IFP agrees to join ANC and DA in government of national unity,” BBC, 13 May 2024)

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Boat Sinks In Kwa river, killing 80

On 13 June, the BBC reported that 80 people died as a boat sank in the DRC’s Kwa River. The country’s President, Félix Tshisekedi, said he was “devaste.” He called for an “investigation into the true causes of this unfortunate incident to prevent such a disaster from happening again in the future.” (“DR Congo: 80 people killed after boat sinks,” BBC, 13 June 2024)

South Africa: First death from Mpox registered

On 13 June, South Africa’s Health Minister Joe Phaahla said that the country registered its first death from the Mpox virus on 10 June. A 37-year-old man died of Mpox in South Africa’s Gauteng province. Phaahla said: "One death is too many, especially from a preventable and manageable disease.” (“Mpox in South Africa: One person dies in Gauteng, says Health Minister Joe Pahaala,” BBC, 13 June 2024)

IN BRIEF

Ayan Datta

Nigeria: 25 years of democracy

On 12 June, according to BBC, Nigeria celebrated 25 years of democratic rule. A 2022 survey by the research organisation Afrobarometer found that 75 per cent of Nigerians were “not very” or “not at all” satisfied with democracy. However, the survey concluded that a majority of those surveyed preferred democracy to any other system of government. Nigeria was under military government from the 1960s and democratised in 1999. (“Nigeria democracy day: Despite anger the country sticks with civilian rule,” BBC, 12 June 2024)

IN BRIEF

Ayan Datta

Sudan: US envoy says fall of El Fasher is imminent

On 11 June, according to the BBC, US Special Envoy for Sudan Tom Perillo said that El Fasher could fall to Rapid Support Forces (RSF) imminently. The Envoy said that the RSF considered establishing Darfur as an independent state after capturing it. Perillo said: "We see 45,000 pregnant women who not only have no real prenatal care, but don't even have enough meals a day to be nourished enough for a healthy pregnancy.” El Fasher was a sanctuary for people fleeing the conflict. However, it recently became another frontline zone. Perillo said that the US would not recognise any breakaway independent state of Darfur. (“Sudan's El Fasher could fall to rebels imminently - US,” BBC, 11 June 2024)

Malawi: Vice President Saulos Chilima confirmed dead in plane crash

On 11 June, according to BBC, Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera said that the wreck of the plane carrying the country’s Vice President Saulos Chilima had been found with no survivors. Chakwera said: "I consider it one of the great honours of my life to have had him as a deputy and as a counsellor.” (“Saulos Chilima: Malawi vice-president confirmed dead in plane crash,” BBC, 11 June 2024)

Nigeria: Gunmen kill 25 in raid

On 11 June, according to BBC, gunmen killed 25 people and abducted multiple others in the northwestern Katsina state. The bandits rode in the village on motorbikes, shot people, looted shops, and abducted multiple. A local resident, Abdullahi Yunusa Kankara, said: “Our town has turned into a death zone. Almost every house in the village has fallen victim to this attack. More dead bodies were recovered this [Monday] morning." (“Nigeria gunmen kill at least 25 in village raid, officials say,” BBC, 11 June 2024)

IN BRIEF

Ayan Datta

Malawi: Aircraft carrying Vice-President goes missing

On 10 June, according to BBC, the Office of Malawi’s President stated that the Malawi Defense Force aircraft carrying the country’s Vice-President Saulos Chilima and nine others had gone missing. The President’s Office stated that the aircraft “went off the radar” after leaving Malawi’s capital Lilongwe. (“Aircraft carrying Malawi vice-president goes missing,” BBC, 10 June)

Rwanda: UNHCR warns of new evidence against Rwanda’s asylum policy

On 10 June, according to the BBC, the United Nations High Commission for Refugees warned the UK’s High Court of Justice that it may have new evidence from 2024 that Rwanda endangered asylum seekers. Senior Legal Officer at UNHCR in London, Lawrence Bottnick, told the court: “UNHCR is aware of repeated incidents of refoulement from Rwanda and denial of access to the asylum procedure to asylum seekers in Rwanda.” The new evidence endangers Rishi Sunak’s “Rwanda plan” for deporting illegal immigrants. (“UN agency warns of new Rwanda abuses evidence,” BBC, 10 June)

Africa: PRIO says conflict-related violence at an all-time high since World War II

On 10 June, according to Al Jazeera, The Peace Research Institute of Oslo (PRIO) reported that 59 armed conflicts broke out in 2023, highest since World War II. Of these, 28 were in Africa. Ethiopia’s Tigray region saw the highest number of conflict-related deaths, followed by Ukraine and Gaza. Senior Researcher and the report’s author Siri Aas Rustad said: “Violence in the world is at an all-time high since the end of the Cold War.” (“Armed conflicts hit post-WWII record in 2023,” Al Jazeera, 10 June 2024)

Sudan: Number of internally displaced persons crosses ten million

On 10 June, according to Africanews, the International Organisation of Migration (IOM) said that Sudan’s multiple conflicts displaced more than ten million people internally. Over two million were forced to neighbouring countries, mainly to Chad, South Sudan and Egypt. The IOM’s s Director General Amy Pope said: “Imagine a city the size of London being displaced. That's what it looks like, but it's happening with the constant threat of crossfire, with famine, disease and brutal ethnic and gender-based violence.” (“Sudan's Internal Displacement surpasses 10 Million,” Africanews, 10 June 2024)

IN BRIEF

Ayan Datta

Benin-Niger: Benin detains five Nigeriens, bilateral row escalates

On 9 June, according to Africanews, Benin arrested five Nigerien nationals and accused them of entering the Seme port illegally. Benin claimed that two of the detained were agents of Niger’s military government using fake documents. Niger countered the accusations. It said that Benin kidnapped staff of its oil company who were at the port to witness a shipment being loaded. The incident was part of a large bilateral dispute between the two countries over oil shipments and borders. (“From oil to arrests: Niger-Benin row escalates,” Africanews, 9 June 2024)

Ghana: Civil society demonstrations in Accra over power shortages

On 9 June, according to Africanews, a massive demonstration gathered in Ghana’s capital, Accra, to demand an end to power shortages in the country. The demonstration was led by civil society groups, entertainers and business owners. (“Hundreds rally in Ghana over power outages,” Africanews, 9 June 2024)

IN BRIEF

Ayan Datta

Sudan: UN agencies warn over RSF attacks

On 5 June, the International Organisation for Migration’s (IOM) Senior Operations Coordinator, Mohamed Refaat, highlighted the “horrifying reports of violent attacks and casualties” in Sudan’s Al Jazirah state. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) allegedly carried out the attack, which killed 100 people, including 35 children. Speaking on the humanitarian consequences of the conflict, Senior Communications Officer of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees, Alpha Seydi, said that the crisis in Sudan had sent over 600,00 refugees into neighbouring Chad. The World Health Organisation (WHO) spokesperson Christian Lindmeir said: “Only about 25 per cent of the medical supplies needed are available in the country. In hard-to-reach areas, only 20 to 30 per cent of health facilities remain functional, and even so, at a minimal level.” (“UN condemns attack in Sudan by RSF paramilitaries that left at least 100 dead,” Africanews, 8 June 2024)

Democratic Republic of Congo: Armed group kills 45 in North Kivu

On 8 June, according to BBC, an armed group killed 45 civilians in a series of attacks in the DRC’s North Kivu province. Local sources say the Islamic State-linked Allied Democratic Force (ADF) is suspected to be the attackers. The province’s Mamove district was hit worst. The attackers torched homes and stole motorbikes. (“Dozens killed by suspected DR Congo rebels in spate of attacks,” BBC, 8 June 2024)

IN BRIEF

Ayan Datta 

Sudan: RSF massacres 150 people in Gezira

On 7 June, BBC reported that Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) killed 150 people in Gezira state’s Wal-al-Nourah village. The World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Executive Director Catherine Russel said: "This is yet another grim reminder of how the children of Sudan are paying the price for the brutal violence." The RSF has been fighting Sudan’s army since April 2023. Over 15,000 people are estimated to have died because of the conflict. (“At least 150 villagers feared dead in Sudan massacre,” BBC, 7 June 2024)

Somalia: Secures non-permanent UNSC seat

On 7 June, Somalia secured a non-permanent UN Security Council (UNSC) seat. Somalia won the UNSC’s allocated East Africa seat by receiving 179 out of 193 votes in the UN General Assembly. Somalia was elected along with Denmark, Greece, Pakistan and Panama for the rotating non-permanent seat from January 2024 for the next two years. The country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, stated: “We stand ready to play a vital role in promoting peace and security in the world.” (“Giant step for Somalia with UN Security Council seat,” BBC, 7 June 2024)

Democratic Republic of Congo: Central Bank pushes Congolese Franc against Dollarisation

On 7 June, Africanews reported that the Central Bank of Congo (BCC) mandated all Electronic Payment Terminal (EPT) to accept Congolese Franc. The Central Bank’s decision aimed to increase the use of the national currency and reduce dependency on the US dollar. Promoting financial inclusion is another aim of the BCC. (“DR Congo seeks to curb dollar dominance by fronting use of local currency,” Africanews, 7 June 2024)

Chad: Foreign Minister Lavrov finishes Africa tour in Chad 

On 7 June, Africanews reported that Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergei Lavrov visited Chad. He met Chad’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abderaman Koulamallah. Lavrov stated: "I can guarantee you that our friendship with Chad will not affect our relations with France in any way. France has other approaches, it proceeds from the fact that either you are with us or you are against us." (“Russian foreign minister wraps Africa tour with working visit in Chad,” Africanews, 7 June 2024)

Democratic Republic of Congo: Alleged coup-plotters on trial

On 7 June, BBC reported that DRC’s military court began the trial of 51 suspects of the attempted coup in May. The trial was held in Kinshasa’s N’dolo military prison. The accused individuals were facing multiple charges, including financing terrorism, and attempted assassination. (“Failed 'coup plotters' go on trial in DR Congo,” BBC, 7 June 2024)

Nigeria: To purchase 3.5 million power meters by the end of 2024

On 7 June, Africanews reported that Nigeria’s Federal Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, announced that the government would acquire 3.5 million prepaid power meters by the end of 2024. The step aims to increase revenue collection and solve the country‘s power shortage problems. (“Nigeria to purchase 3.5 million prepaid power meters by end of 2024,” Africanews, 7 June 2024)

Rwanda: Kagame critic barred from presidential race

On 7 June, according to BBC, Diane Rwigara, a critic of incumbent President Paul Kagame, was barred from contesting the presidential elections. Diane said: "I'm representing the vast majority of Rwandans who live in fear and are not allowed to be free in their own country.” She added: “Rwanda is portrayed as a country where the economy has been growing. But on the ground, it's different. People do lack the basics of life, food, water, shelter." (“Kagame critic Diane Rwigara barred from Rwanda presidential race,” BBC, 7 June 2024)

IN BRIEF

Ayan Datta

South Africa: ANC to form national unity government

On 5 June, BBC reported that a spokesperson of the African National Congress (ANC), Mahlegi Bhengu-Motsiri, said that the party seeks to form a government of national unity with others. She said: "The results indicate that the South Africans want all parties to work together." Bhengo-Motsiri said that the ANC had discussed with the Democratic Alliance (DA), the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), and MK party. By forming a national unity government, the ANC could avoid the dilemmas of choosing coalition partners. The DA is seen as pro-white and opposes the ANC’s black empowerment policies. The MK and EFF would alienate the business community. There is also the personal animosity between Zuma and Cyril Ramaphosa. South Africa had a national unity government in 1994 when a Nelson Mandela-led ANC formed a coalition government with the pro-apartheid National Party. (“South Africa election: ANC eyes government of national unity,” BBC, 6 June 2024)

Zambia: Chinese nationals arrested for running cybercrime syndicate

On 5 June, according to BBC, 22 Chinese nationals pled guilty to committing cyber-related crimes. The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) arrested them in April after raiding their premises. The accused were charged with running a “sophisticated internet fraud syndicate.” The individuals worked at the Golden Top Support Services, operated in Lagos. The syndicate targeted people in Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, and African countries with online scams. Li Xianlin, a Chinese national, is believed to be the company’s director. (“Zambia cybercrime: Chinese nationals plead guilty to scam charges,” BBC, 6 June 2024)

Burkina Faso: Foreign Minister Lavrov’s visit

On 4 June, Russia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sergei Lavrov, visited Burkina Faso. This was his first visit to Burkina Faso. Lavrov met Burkina Faso’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré. Lavrov said that he was grateful for Traoré’s assistance in helping Russia reopen its embassy in Burkina Faso’s capital, Ouagadougou. (“Lavrov arrives in Burkina Faso, third leg of his Africa tour,” Africanews, 6 June 2024)

Sudan: 1280 civilian casualties in El-Fasher

On 5 June, the aid group Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) stated: “Since the fighting began on May 10, we have received 1,280 casualties at the MSF-supported South Hospital – 203 have died from their injuries.” The MSF said that with the intensification of the conflict in El Fasher, the South Hospital was the only remaining in the region. The hospital had been bombed three times in a week and at the brink of being non-operational. (“El Fasher Conflict: 1,280 civilian casualties and hospital closure looms,” Sudan Tribune, 6 June 2024)

Sudan: 100 dead in RSF attack

On 5 June, the Sudan Tribune reported that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) killed 100 people in Al-Jazira state’s Wad Al-Norra village. Local neighbourhood committees reported: “The village of Wad Al-Noora witnessed a massacre after the RSF militia attacked it twice.” The RSF took control of Al-Jazirah state in 2023. Since then, it has been raiding villages and committing atrocities against residents. Residents want to arm themselves to resist the RSF. (“RSF commits massacre in Al-Jazirah village, leaving nearly 100 dead,” Sudan Tribune, 6 June 2024)

IN BRIEF

Ayan Datta

Ethiopia: US-based institute reports Ethiopia committed genocide in Tigray war

On 4 June, Al Jazeera reported that the New Lines Institute found evidence that Ethiopia’s military committed “acts constituting the crime of genocide.” The report’s authors say that Ethiopia violated the Genocide Convention because it engaged in mass killings and starvation tactics. The authors say Ethiopian forces “possessed the intent to destroy Tigrayans as an ethnic group.” The authors call for Ethiopia to be tried before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). (“Strong evidence that Ethiopia committed genocide in Tigray war: Report | Crimes Against Humanity News,” Al Jazeera, 4 June 2024)

South Korea: President Yoon Suk Yeol hosts inaugural Korea-Africa summit

On 3 June, South Korea’s President Yoon hosted several African leaders for the first Korea-Africa summit. Yoon urged the African states to increase international pressure on North Korea. The two parties announced cooperation plans in mineral resources and sustainable infrastructure. Yoon announced an increase in development aid and investments. The two parties jointly stated the “importance of the efforts of the international community to achieve a complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.” (“With eye on the North, South Korea courts Africa with development aid,” Africanews, 4 June 2024)

South Africa: ANC to form coalition within the week

On 4 June, Africanews reported that the African National Congress (ANC) would hold a National Executive Committee meeting to determine the party’s coalition partners. The meeting would be held this week. In the recently concluded elections, President Cyril Ramaphosa lost his parliamentary majority. The ANC has multiple potential partners, but each comes with costs. If the ANC allies with the Democratic Alliance (DA), it would have the requisite numbers. However, the two have irreconcilable policy disagreements. If the ANC allies with Jacob Zuma’s MK party, it would also have the numbers. However, Zuma and Ramaphosa have personal differences. The ANC could include the Economic Freedom Fighters Party. However, any alliance of the ANC with EFF and MK will alienate the DA. The ANC’s secretary-general, Fikile Mbalula, said on 3 June that the party was “having discussions within the organisation and with other parties and stakeholders on how best to establish national and provincial governments that reflect the will of the people.” (“Talks to form South Africa's next government, choose coalition partners,” Africanews, 4 June 2024)

Republic of the Congo: Lavrov meets President Nguesso and MFA Gakosso

On 4 June, Russia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sergey Lavrov, met with Congo’s President Denis Sassou-Nguesso. The crisis in Libya was high on their agenda. On 4 June, Lavrov and Congo’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Jean-Claude Gakosso held a joint press conference. Gakosso argued for a negotiated end to the Russia-Ukraine war. He said: “Those who urge to send troops on the ground do not help the peace process, but on the contrary, they put all humanity under the risk of fatal and definitive confrontation.” Lavrov criticized the upcoming peace conference in Switzerland. (“Russian FM in Congo: Libya, war in Ukraine and cooperation top agenda,” Africanews, 4 June 2024)

IN BRIEF

Ayan Datta 

South Africa: ANC’s electoral dilemma

On 3 June, BBC’s opinion discussed the African National Congress (ANC) was in a critical dilemma. The ANC won only 40 per cent of the vote. It needs to find a coalition partner to secure a parliamentary majority. The partner has to support the ANC’s choice of President. Its first option for a coalition partner is the Democratic Alliance (DA). However, the public perceives the DA as pro-White and pro-apartheid. The DA opposes the ANC’s welfare state policies and “black empowerment” efforts. For the ANC, these policies are non-negotiable. The ANC’s second option is to ally with Jacob Zuma’s MK party. However, there is personal animosity between Zuma and the ANC’s leader Cyril Ramaphosa. The Economic Freedom Party (EFF) can be a third option for ANC. However, the EFF considers the seizure and redistribution of white-owned land without compensation as its “cardinal principle.” The ANC opposes this policy. (“South Africa elections: ANC's dilemma over coalition government,” BBC, 3 June 2024)

Nigeria: Worker unions organise national grid shutdown

On 3 June, the BBC reported that Nigerians were left without electricity after labour union members shut down the national grid. The shutdown was part of a general strike against the rising cost of living in the country. The unions were demanding an increase in the minimum wage. Nigeria’s economy has been suffering from high inflation. Workers’ wages are not keeping up with the rising cost of commodities including rice. However, the government says wage increases would harm the economy and increase unemployment because businesses would be forced to close. This is the fourth strike since President Bola Tinubu took office in 2023. (“NLC strike update in Nigeria: National grid shut down,” BBC, 3 June 2024)

Africa: Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) publishes report on most neglected displacement crises, nine out of ten in Africa

On 3 June, Al Jazeera quoted a report published by the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) on the world’s most neglected displacement crises. Burkina Faso topped the list for the second time. It was followed by Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Mali, Niger, Honduras, South Sudan, the Central African Republic, Chad and Sudan. Secretary-General of the NRC, Jan England, stated: “The utter neglect of displaced people has become the new normal.” He added: “The local political and military elites disregard the suffering they cause, and the world is neither shocked nor compelled to act.” In Burkina Faso, violence between armed groups left hundreds of thousands displaced last year. In Cameroon, 1.1 million people were internally displaced because the Francophone government suppressed Anglophone protests. In the DRC, internal armed violence led to 6.9 million displaced people. In Mali, more than 340,000 people were displaced because of conflict between the state’s military and non-state armed groups. In Niger, the number was above 335,000. In Honduras, 250,000 were displaced. In South Sudan, civil war and conflict in Sudan led to around 4 million internally displaced people. In the CAR, 25 per cent of the population was internally displaced. In Chad, 200,000 people were internally displaced. Sudan saw the world’s internal displacement crisis, with eight million people displaced. (“The world’s neglecting vulnerable displaced people. Here’s where it’s worst,” Al Jazeera, 3 June 2024)

Kenya: Seven new bodies exhumed from forest 

On 4 June, seven new bodies were recovered in Kenya’s Shakahola forest. A total of 436 bodies have been exhumed from the mass gravesite so far. Pastor Paul Mackenzie is the suspected murderer. He is alleged to have encouraged his followers to starve themselves to death so that they would meet Jesus. The case brought state attention to Kenya’s unregulated Churches and cults. (“Kenya: exhumations continue in Shakahola forest,” Africanews, 4 June 2024)

IN BRIEF 

Ayan Datta 

South Africa: Ramaphosa faces poor election results, needs to form coalition

On 2 June, according to BBC, South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa admitted that his African National Congress (ANC) party suffered a challenging election result. Ramaphosa said: "Our people have spoken, whether we like it or not, they have spoken." With all voters counted, the ANC finished with a 40 per cent share. It won 159 seats in the nation’s 400-seat Parliament. The Democratic Alliance (DA) finished second, with 87 seats. DA leader John Steenhuisen said he was prepared to form a coalition government. He said: “We urge all others who love our constitution and all it represents to set aside petty politics and narrow sectarian interests and join hands now." Jacob Zuma’s MK party came third with 58 seats. However, Zuma disputed the results. His party alleged that the elections had been rigged. The MK demanded fresh elections and an independent investigation. The ANC's performance decreased from 58 per cent vote share in the previous election. The 1994 elections were the first in which all South Africans voted. The ANC, then led by Nelson Mandela, had won. Since then, the ANC’s vote share has been steadily declining. This year, the party finally lost its parliamentary majority. It needs to form a coalition government to stay in power. Analysts say that issues like water shortages, corruption, unemployment, crime, and power outages have caused the decline. (South Africa president faces up to poor poll result, BBC, 2 June 2024)

IN BRIEF

Ayan Datta 

South Africa: ANC may lose majority, reports BBC

On 31 May, BBC Africa reported that the ruling African National Congress (ANC) could lose its parliamentary majority for the first time after coming to power in 1994. Results from 50 per cent of the voting districts have been released. The ANC is leading with 42 per cent of the votes, followed by the Democratic Alliance (DA) with 23 per cent. Former President Jacob Zuma’s party uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) have secured 11 per cent and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) ten per cent. The think tank, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, and the News24 media had predicted that the ANC's vote share would be around 42 per cent. (“South Africa election results: ANC on course to lose majority,” BBC, 31 May 2024)

Kenya: President Ruto says friends helped pay for the private jet

On 30 May, BBC reported that Kenyan President William Ruto had argued that the private jet he used to travel to the US was funded by “some friends.” These friends offered him the plane for USD 73,000. This was significantly lower than the USD 1.5 million, the amount critics alleged was the actual cost of hiring the plane. Ruto and his government are facing scandal over the extravagance of the government while the economy is in crisis. (“Kenya's William Ruto: Friends helped pay for private jet to US,” BBC, 30 May 2024)

Central African Republic: US sanctions two companies for Wagner links

On 30 May, Al Jazeera reported that the US sanctioned two CAR-based firms over links with Russia’s Wagner Group. The firms included the Mining Industries and the Logistique Economique Etrangere. The firms’ activities were allegedly benefitting Wagner’s operations in the country. (“US sanctions two Wagner-linked firms in Central African Republic,” Al Jazeera, 30 May 2024)

Algeria: US opposes Algeria’s Gaza resolution at the UNSC

On 30 May, Africanews reported that the US opposed an Algeria-sponsored UNSC resolution on Gaza initiated on 29 May. Algeria’s resolution called for an immediate ceasefire and an end to Israel’s military operations in Rafah. The US Alternate Representative for Special Political Affairs to the UN, Robert Wood, said that "another resolution is not necessarily going to change anything on the ground." (“US calls Algeria's proposed UN resolution on Israel's Rafah offensive,” Africanews, 30 May 2024)

 Nigeria: New national anthem causes controversy

On 30 May, Africanews reported on the Nigerian government announcing its new national anthem. The anthem is titled “Nigeria We Hail Thee,” written by Lillian Jean Williams, a British expatriate in Nigeria. The change has been controversial. Oby Ezekwesili, a former Federal Minister of Education, said: "In a 21st Century Nigeria, the country's political class found a colonial National Anthem that has pejorative words like "Native Land" and "Tribes" to be admirable enough to foist on our Citizens." Nigeria’s military government introduced the old anthem, “Arise O Compatriots,” in 1978. However, “Nigeria We Hail Thee” was introduced when Nigeria was under British rule. The government justified the change, arguing that the replaced anthem which was introduced during military rule. Meanwhile, critics argued that the present government was reviving the anthem from Nigeria’s colonial period. (“Nigeria's new anthem, written by a Briton, sparks criticism after a contentious law is passed,” Africanews, 30 May 2024)

IN BRIEF

Vetriselvi Baskaran

Democratic Republic of Congo: New cabinet after a failed coup attempt

On 29 May, Al Jazeera reported that the Democratic Republic of Congo formed a new 54-member cabinet which ended uncertainty following President Felix Tshisekedi’s re-election in December. The formation of the government came after a failed coup attempt on 20 May. Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita’s appointment as the Minister of Defence is considered crucial for the conflict between the Congolese army and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. (“DR Congo ends impasse to appoint new government,” Al Jazeera, 29 May 2024)

Egypt: President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi visits China

On 29 May, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi visited Beijing, China. During the visit, the countries penned an agreement on strengthening their cooperation. Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sameh Shoukry, accompanied President Fattah. Both countries discussed bilateral issues and tensions in the Middle East. The agreement aims at collaboration on China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China has invested billions in Egypt’s state projects including the Suez Canal Economic Zone, and the new Administrative Capital. The investments between the countries total USD 14 billion in 2023 compared to USD 16.6 billion in 2022. (“Egypt and China deepen cooperation during el-Sissi's visit to Beijing,” Africanews, 29 May 2024)

Madagascar: Parliamentary elections
On 29 May, Madagascar held its parliamentary elections. The ruling party, Tanora Malagasy Vonona, of President Andry Rajoelina is expected to retain the majority. The party won 84 seats out of 151 in the previous election. According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI), 12 million people were eligible to vote this year. Representatives from the African Union (AU) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) observed the elections. (“Madagascar holds key parliamentary election,” Africanews, 29 May 2024)

IN BRIEF

Ayan Datta

Sudan: UNSC criticised for not focussing on “UAE’s aggression”

On 24 May, the Sudan Tribune reported that the country’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Al-Harith Idriss, criticised a closed-door UN Security Council meeting for not focussing on the UAE’s aggression against Sudan. Idris stated before the press: “We sought a dedicated meeting to address the acts of aggression perpetrated by the UAE against the Republic of Sudan.” He argued that the meeting “trivialises the focus and urgency” of Sudan’s concerns. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) has been alleging the UAE of assisting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the civil war. (“Sudan criticises Security Council for lack of focus on "UAE's aggression,” Sudan Tribune, 24 May 2024)

Equatorial Guinea: President Nguema visits China

On 28 May, Africanews reported that Equatorial Guinea President Teodoro Obiang Nguema arrived in Beijing on 27 May for a state visit. Nguema held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and announced the elevation of bilateral ties to a “comprehensive strategic partnership of cooperation,” He additionally met China’s Premier Li Qiang and chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, Zhao Leji. Nguema will visit China’s Shandong Province, a manufacturing powerhouse. (“Equatorial Guinea, China announce elevation of ties | Africanews,” Africanews, 28 May 2024)

Sudan: SAF intensifies airstrikes in North Darfur and Khartoum

On 28 May, the Sudan Tribune reported that the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) carried out airstrikes on North Darfur and to the north of Khartoum. The SAF additionally struck the RSF positions in Khartoum, Bahri, Kober, Halfiya, Shambat farms and the DAL company headquarters. The SAF aims to prevent RSF reinforcements from reaching El-Fasher. (“Sudanese army escalates airstrikes in North Darfur and Khartoum - Sudan Tribune,” Sudan Tribune, 28 May 2024)

Sudan: Blinken and Burhan discuss ceasefire and humanitarian access 

On 28 May, the Sudan Tribune reported that US Secretary of State Antony J Blinken urged Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) leader, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, to end the ongoing conflict, de-escalate and facilitate humanitarian access. Matthew Miller asserted that the two leaders additionally discussed resuming peace negotiations. (“Blinken, Burhan discuss ceasefire and humanitarian access in Sudan,” Sudan Tribune, 28 May 2024)

South Sudan: Kiir directs advisor to enter peace negotiations with Sudan amidst oil crisis

On 28 May, the Sudan Tribune reported that South Sudan President Salva Kiir directed his national security advisor, Tut Gatluak, to engage in peace negotiations with Sudan. Kiir wants to use the peace to get an oil pipeline repaired. South Sudan’s Undersecretary of the Ministry of Petroleum, William Anyak Deng, told reporters: “The escalating conflict has severely hindered our progress in fixing the pipeline.” South Sudan’s economy is dependent on oil revenue. The pipeline rupture occurred in an area controlled by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of Sudan. The conflict has hindered the repair of the pipeline. (“Kiir tasks advisor with Sudan peace talks amidst oil crisis,” Sudan Tribune, 29 May 2024)

IN BRIEF

Ayan Datta

South Africa: Universities face pressure to cut ties with Israel

On 27 May, Al Jazeera reported that students at the Wits University and the University of Cape Town set up pro-Palestine encampments in their campuses. The protesters demand to disclose the universities’ relationship with Israel-aligned companies and universities, express solidarity with Palestine, support the Boycott, Divestment and Sanction (BDS) movement, and end censorship on pro-Palestinian activists. The University of Fort Hare committed to not pursuing relationships with Israeli institutions. The Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Buti Manamela, told Al Jazeera: “We really want to see our universities and institutional organisations doing what most institutions did to apartheid: boycott it.” The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Naledi Pandor, argued that universities should advance “critical citizenship.” (Cut Israel ties: South Africa universities face pressure to follow gov’t | Israel-Palestine conflict News, Al Jazeera, 27 May 2024)

Somalia: Town flooded after river overflows

On 26 May, Africanews reported that seasonal rains and the El Nino effect caused the Shebelle River to overflow, flooding the Beledweyne Town. A video by the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) showed partly submerged homes and people fleeing their homes. (Somali town of Beledweyne heavily flooded after a river burst its banks, Africanews, 26 May 2024)

IN BRIEF

Ayan Datta

Nigeria: 160 villagers kidnapped by the bandits

On 26 May, BBC reported that ten people were killed and at least 160 villagers were kidnapped from a village in Nigeria's state of Niger. The men rode on motorcycles and looted the village. A resident told BBC that the assailants are suspected to belong to Boko Haram. Amnesty International expressed concerns on the incident. The group highlighted that the mass abduction indicates the Nigerian state’s failure to protect its people. It called on Nigerian authorities to put an end to similar incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice. (“At least 160 villagers reported taken in deadly raid, BBC, 27 May 2024)

Sudan: 130 people die at hospital amid city siege

On 26 May, BBC reported that over 130 people died at the South Hospital in Sudan’s besieged city of El Fasher. The city is currently under the control of Sudan’s army, which has been fighting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The intense fighting has caused 979 casualties. According to the UN, the hospital is running low on supplies. A UN expert warned that civilians in El Fasher were being targeted on the basis of ethnicity and that the Darfur region was facing risk of a genocide. (El Fasher: Single hospital in Sudan city records 134 deaths, BBC, 27 May 2024)

Burkina Faso: Military rule extended by five years 

On 26 May, the BBC reported that Burkina Faso's military government, led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, extended the military rule for another five years. The decision was announced after a national consultation meeting in the country's capital Ouagadougou. Additionally, he would be able to contest for the next presidential election. Captain Traoré has pledged to restore civilian government by 1 July this year. A new 60-month long transition period would take effect from 2 July, which would be followed by elections. (Burkina Faso extends military rule by five years, BBC, 26 May 2024)

IN BRIEF

Vetriselvi Baskaran

Mali: Joint military kills IS commander  

On 29 April, BBC reported that IS Commander, Abu Huzeifa, was killed by Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger joint troops. Mali state TV reported that Abu Huzeifa was also known as “Higgo,” a Moroccan national and Commander of the IS in the Sahel region. He was killed in an operation carried out in the Menaka region. He was linked to several high profile raids in the Sahel region including a 2017 attack where four US soldiers were killed. (“Mali kills IS commander blamed for US deaths - state TV,” BBC, 29 April 2024)

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Anu Maria Joseph

Burkina Faso: Junta denies mass killing allegations by HRW 

On 28 April, Burkina Faso condemned a report by the HRW accusing the Burkina Faso army of killing 223 people and described it as “baseless accusation.” The Communications Minister, Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouedraogo, stated: "The government of Burkina Faso strongly rejects and condemns such baseless accusations." He asserted that the country has initiated a legal inquiry to “establish the facts” to prove the HRW “guilty.” (“Burkina Faso rejects 'baseless accusations' that soldiers massacred 223 villagers,” BBC, 28 April 2024)

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Vetriselvi Baskaran

South Africa: 30 years of democracy

On 27 April, the country celebrated its 30 years of democracy. President Cyril Ramaphosa lauded the achievements of his party since the end of apartheid. He gave a speech marking “Freedom Day.” He stated: “South Africa’s democracy is young. What we’ve achieved in these short 30 years is something of which all of us should be proud. This is an infinitely better place than it was 30 years ago.” The celebrations additionally come ahead of the presidential elections scheduled on 29 May. He stated: “We have made much progress and we are determined to do much more.” The country had its first democratic election in 1994, African National Congress (ANC) won the election, and Nelson Mandela became the country’s first President. (“Ramaphosa hails ANC record as South Africa marks 30 years of democracy,” Al Jazeera, 27 April 2024)

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Anu Maria Joseph

Burkina Faso: Suspends BBC over HRW report

On 26 April, the country suspended the BBC and the US public broadcaster Voice of America following its coverage of mass killings. The report accused the Burkinabe military of carrying out at least 223 civilian massacres in February. The country’s media regulator warned other media outlets not to cover the news and suspended BBC publications. UN Human Rights Office spokesperson Marta Hurtad raised concerns over the suspension. She stated: "Restrictions on media freedom and civic space must stop immediately. Freedom of expression including the right of access to information is crucial in any society, and even more so in the context of the transition in Burkina Faso." (“Burkina Faso suspends BBC over HRW report on alleged mass killings,” BBC, 26 April 2024; “UN criticises Burkina Faso's BBC ban,” BBC, 26 April 2024)

Ethiopia: AU expresses concerns over community disputes

On 26 April, the African Union (AU) raised concern on "escalating tensions between local communities" in North Ethiopia. The country has been in turmoil since the war broke out between the Tigrayans and the federal government in 2020. The Tigrayans seized the regions including Alamata Town, Raya Alamata, Zata, and Ofla which are claimed by the Amharas. The violent disputes have caused 50,000 to flee their hometown. The AU Chairman, Moussa Faki Mahamat, urged both sides to immediately "halt hostilities and ensure the safety of civilians to end the renewed displacement of the local population." (“AU 'deeply concerned' about north Ethiopia tensions,” BBC, 26 April 2024)

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Vetriselvi Baskaran

Burkina Faso: 220 civilians killed by the military, says HRW report

On 25 April, Human Rights Watch (HRW) reported that 220 civilians, including at least 56 children, were killed by the Burkinabe army. The group reported that the army killed 179 people in Soro village and 44 others in Nondin village. The group described the attack as "the worst army abuse" in the country in a decade. The residents claimed that the mass killings were in retaliation to the allegations of the villagers aiding Islamist militants. The executive director of HRW, Tirana Hassan, stated: "The massacres in Nondin and Soro villages are just the latest mass killings of civilians by the Burkina Faso military in their counterinsurgency operations." The Burkinabe government has not yet commented on the attack. (“Burkina Faso army massacred 223 villagers in revenge attack, says HRW,” BBC, 25 April 2024)

Kenya: Floods cause troubles in Nairobi

On 25 April, Al Jazeera reported that at least ten people were killed in floods in the capital Nairobi. The El Nino weather phenomenon has intensified the heavy seasonal rainfall. The floods had a significant impact on approximately 60,000 individuals, primarily women and children, as reported by the Nairobi County governor's office. The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning regarding the continuous occurrence of "heavy to very heavy" rainfall in several regions until the end of May. On 24 April, police fired tear gas on civilians who blocked the main highway protesting against government's inaction. Kenya Railways has declared a temporary suspension of services. Meanwhile, in neighbouring countries of Burundi and Tanzania, approximately 100,000 individuals have been forced to leave their homes. (“Suleja prison: 108 inmates on the run in Nigeria,” BBC, 25 April 2024)

Burkina Faso: Mass killings by army, reports HRW

On 25 April, the Human Rights Watch (HRW) released a report titled “Burkina Faso: Army Massacres 223 Villagers.” According to the report, mass killings are at the top "among the worst army abuse" in a decade. It found that the military has killed 220 civilians including 56 children in a single day. The attack was carried out in retaliation for supporting armed jihadists. The country’s authorities are yet to respond to the report. However, in March, an appeal was filed by public prosecutor Aly Benjamin Coulibaly to find the perpetrators. The military violence against civilians have doubled since the 2020 coup. (“Burkina Faso army massacred 223 villagers in revenge attack - HRW,” BBC, 25 April 2024)

Chad: The US repositioned its military forces

On 25 April, US Pentagon Press Secretary, Major General Pat Ryder, announced that the US has temporarily repositioned its military forces in the country. The announcement came days after the US announced the withdrawal of its troops from Niger. He stated: "This is a temporary step as part of an ongoing review of our security cooperation, which will resume after Chad's 6 May presidential election." (“US to 'temporarily' pull troops out of Chad,” BBC, 26 April 2024)

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Anu Maria Joseph

East Africa: Heavy rains cause casualties in Kenya and Tanzania

On 24 April, BBC reported on heavy floods in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi. According to the UN, at least 32 people were killed, and 40,000 others were displaced. UN official in Nairobi, Edwin Sifuna, stated: "The situation in Nairobi has escalated to extreme levels. The County Government, for all its efforts, is overwhelmed. We need all national emergency services mobilised to save lives." Meanwhile, in Tanzania, at least 58 people were killed, and 100,000 others were displaced. The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), or the "Indian Niño,” has caused heavy rain in East Africa. (“Floods wreak havoc in Kenya, Tanzania and Burundi,” BBC, 24 April 2024)

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Anu Maria Joseph

South Africa: High Court rules against ANC’s bid to block Zuma’s MK party

On 22 April, the Durban High Court of South Africa ruled against the African National Congress (ANC) in its case against Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto weSizwe party using the name which was formerly the name of ANC’s military wing. ANC alleged intellectual property theft against the MK party. The court has ruled in favour of MK’s right to use the name which is currently a defunct organisation. South Africa has scheduled its elections for 29 May. (“South Africa: Another loss for ANC to stop Jacob Zuma's MK party,” Africanews, 22 April 2024)

Nigeria: Six soldiers killed in Bandit’s attack

On 22 April, at least six soldiers were killed in an attack in the Shiroro region of Niger state of Nigeria. The military stated that its troops were attacked while on a “fighting patrol.” The region is known for bandit leader Dogo Gide, an ally of the IS linked jihadists. (“Six soldiers killed during an operation against bandits in Nigeria,” Africanews, 22 April 2024)

Niger: Protests against the US military

On 22 April, Africanews reported on hundreds of people protesting in northern Niger demanding for an immediate departure of the US troops based in the country. The development came a day after the US agreed to withdraw its forces. The relations between Niger and the West worsened after the coup in July 2023. (“Protests against U.S. military presence in Niger continue,” Africanews, 22 April 2024)

Burundi: Hundreds displaced due to heavy floods

On 22 April, Africanews reported on the floods in Burundi. Thousands were displaced and several houses and schools were destroyed. A disaster management expert and professor of geography at Burundi University, Jean-Marie Sabushimike, stated: “The economic impacts are starting to weigh heavily. But why these floods? It must be said that they are associated with the climate changes that are affecting Burundi, like other countries in the region.” He added that the flooding is exacerbated by poor land use. According to the UN, since September 2023, more than 200,000 people have been displaced due to floods across the world due to the El Nino weather phenomenon. (“Hundreds of thousands displaced by flooding in Burundi,” Africanews, 22 April 2024)

Niger: Protest demanding immediate withdrawal of US troops

On 22 April, hundreds of people protested in the Agadez region of Niger, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the US troops. The protests came two days after the US agreed to withdraw its troops from the country. BBC quoted the protester telling AFP media: "Our message is clear: American soldiers, pack your bags and go home." The protesters were carrying the flags of Russia, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger. Following the series of coups in the region, the military governments ended ties with the West and turned to Russia for its fight against insurgency. (“'Pack your bags': Hundreds in Niger tell US troops to go home,” News24, 22 April 2024)

Mali: Jihadists abduct 110 civilians 

On 22 April, Africanews reported that at least 110 people were kidnapped by jihadists the previous week in the Mopti region. BBC quoted the residents who told the AFP media that the jihadists hijacked three buses and forced them to drive in the direction of a forest between the regions of Bandiagara and Bankass. Recently, the Mopti region has been under frequent attacks by Islamist militants. Several civil society organisations in the region have been staging protests against the junta's inaction on the increasing insecurity in the region. (“Mali: More than 110 civilians kidnapped by "suspected jihadists",” Africanews, 22 April 2024)

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Anu Maria Joseph

Togo: Approves constitutional reforms

On 20 April, Togo’s parliament approved to amend the constitution relating to the presidential term and the election of the president. Several opposition politicians and civil society groups have denounced the move as a constitutional coup. The amendment was adopted on 25 March but was called for a second parliamentary vote amidst opposition. The reforms have introduced a parliamentary system of government in place of the presidential and have shortened the presidential term to four years from five years with a two-term limit. The opposers claim that the reforms would allow the President, Faure Gnassingbe, to extend his term limit. (“Togo approves constitutional reform changing how president is elected,” Al Jazeera, 20 April 2024)

Zimbabwe: El-Nino-linked drought disrupts maize production

On 20 April, Africanews reported that Zimbabwe’s Mazowe district is facing a severe drought with the disrupted supply of maize throughout the country. Poor rainfall in the region has dried out hectares of maize. The chairman of the Grain Millers Association, Tafadzwa Musarara, stated: "The drought itself in terms of our estimation will require us to import about 1.1 million tonnes of maize for both human and livestock consumption from between now and July 31 of 2025.” The president has declared a state of disaster amidst the drought. (“Zimbabwe: El Nino-linked drought threatens maize production,” Africanews, 20 April 2024)

Niger: Withdrawal of US troops

On 20 April, the US agreed to withdraw its troops from Niger as the country is turning to Russia for support in fighting the insurgency. The US has 1000 troops stationed in Niger, fighting Islamist militancy. The decision to withdraw came after continuous demand from the junta amidst increasing anti-West sentiments. (“US agrees to withdraw troops from Niger amid Sahel region’s pivot to Russia,” Al Jazeera, 20 April 2024)

Sudan: UN warns of foreign supply of weapons

On 20 April, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary Anne DiCarlo, warned of the “crisis of epic proportions” due to the supply of weapons from foreign countries despite sanctions. She added: “If the parties have been able to sustain their confrontation, it is in no small part thanks to the material support they receive from outside Sudan. These external actors continue to flout the sanctions regime imposed by the Council to support a political settlement, thereby fuelling the conflict. This is illegal, it is immoral and it must stop.” Although she did not name any of the foreign actors, according to Africanews, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt are accused of their involvement in the war. The sanctions imposed on Sudan include an arms and ammunition embargo and assets freeze. (“Sudan war fuelled by weapons from foreign actors in violation of sanctions - UN,” Africanews, 20 April 2024)

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Anu Maria Joseph

Central African Republic: Renews ties with France

On 17 April, the Central African Republic (CAR) President, Faustin-Archange Touadera, met with French President, Emmanuel Macron, in Paris. Both countries agreed to boost bilateral cooperation and revive strained ties. The France-CAR relations took a downturn after CAR began leaning on Russia for military and political support. According to a joint statement following the meeting, both countries “aim to establish the framework of a constructive partnership that respects the sovereignty of the state.” The statement added that the cooperation would “contribute to stability, strengthen national cohesion as wide as possible and support the economic and social development of the country [CAR].” (“CAR and France hold talks seeking to revive strained ties,” BBC, 18 April 2024)

Sahel: Heat wave caused by anthropogenic causes, reports WWA

On 18 April, World Weather Attribution (WWA). an international agency focusing on extreme weather events reported that anthropogenic factors are contributing to climate change, leading to the unusual heatwave in the Sahel region in April. The temperature has risen to more than 45 degrees Celsius in Mali and Burkina Faso between 1 April and 5 April. The study states: “Even minimum temperatures, overnight, remained relatively high, making it so that people did not get a break from the heat.” The agency's observations found that “heatwaves with the magnitude observed in March and April 2024 in the region would have been impossible to occur without the global warming of 1.2C to date,” which it linked to “human-induced climate change.” (“Deadly Sahel heatwave caused by ‘human-induced’ climate change: Study,” Al Jazeera, 18 April 2024)

Kenya: Plane crash kills army chief

On 18 April, Al Jazeera reported that Kenya’s military chief, General Francis Ogolla, and nine others were killed in a plane crash in Elgeyo Marakwet County. The military aircraft was visiting the troops deployed in the northwest, combatting cattle rustling. The cause behind the crash is unclear. Ogolla was the head of Kenya’s Air Force previously and was promoted by President William Ruto to the head of the military in 2023. At a news conference, Ruto stated: “Our motherland has lost one of her most valiant generals. The demise of General Ogolla is a painful loss to me.” (“Kenya’s military chief among 10 people killed in helicopter crash,” Al Jazeera, 18 April 2024)

Niger: Signs deal with Mali on diesel supply

On 18 April, Africanews reported that Niger would deliver 150 million litres of diesel to Mali as part of the deal signed on 16 April. The diesel would be supplied to Mali’s national energy company. Énergie du Mali (EDM-SA), as the country is facing power shortages. According to the deal, Niger would be selling the diesel at half the normal rate. (“Niger signs deal to supply Mali with cheaper diesel,” Africanews, 18 April 2024)

Nigeria: Villages form vigilante groups to fight insecurity

On 18 April, Africanews reported that several conflict-hit states in Nigeria are setting up community-based vigilante groups to ensure security in the villages amidst increasing attacks and kidnappings. The country’s security forces are unequipped with resources. In March, in Kduna state, 300 school children were abducted. The state has formed a vigilante group, the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), to protect the villages. Besides, the government forces are increasingly relying on these groups for intelligence and characters of the attackers due to their familiarity with the attacks.  (“Vigilante groups protect communities in northern Nigeria,” Africanews, 18 April 2024)

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Anu Maria Joseph

Kenya: Doctors strike into fifth week

On 17 April, Africanews reported on the doctor’s strike entering its fifth week in Kenya. Hundreds of doctors and medical staff have protested demanding better pay and working conditions since March. A protesting medical staff member, Emmanuel Odhihiambo, stated: “We are not going to bow to any forms of intimidation and threats. And we are hereby saying today that we are going to continue picketing, we are going to continue our constitutional rights as per article 37 of the constitution.” The strike has left several patients without access to services. The government has not taken any action to address the concerns of the medical community. (“Kenya: Doctors begin fifth week of strike,” Africanews, 17 April 2024)

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Anu Maria Joseph

Burkina Faso: Three French diplomats expelled

On 16 April, Burkina Faso expelled three French diplomats for alleged “subversive activities.” The diplomats included two political advisers at the French embassy in Ouagadougou. They were asked “to leave the territory of Burkina Faso within the next 48 hours.” On 18 April, France responded that the expulsion was based on “unfounded” allegations. (“Burkina Faso expels three French diplomats for 'subversive activities',” Reuters, 16 April 2024)

Ethiopia: Fresh wave of fighting between Tigray and Amhara militias

On 16 April, BBC reported on a fresh wave of fighting between Ethiopia’s Tigray and Amhara regions. The fight broke out in the Raya Alamata district, a region claimed by Tigray and Amhara ethnic groups. While Amhara officials accused fighters aligned with the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) of triggering the clashes, Tigray regional officials blamed Amara militias for launching the offensive. The new wave of clashes has disrupted the peace deal signed between the TPLF and the federal forces in 2022. (“Tigray leader blames unnamed 'enemies' for fresh fighting,” BBC, 16 April 2024)

Sudan: International conference to aid humanitarian crisis

On 16 April, while concluding the international conference gathering humanitarian support for Sudan, French President, Emmanuel Macron, announced that the international; community has promised USD 2.1 billion in humanitarian assistance to Sudan. The UN and countries’ representatives have urged the warring parties to end the hostilities. Macron stated: "Today, from this mobilisation, all of our presence, it sends a clear message we are sending to the belligerents. We are making a solemn appeal out of respect for international humanitarian rights and for the protection of the civil population.” (“Donors pledge $2.1 billion to aid war-stricken Sudan - Macron announces,” Africanews, 16 April 2024)

Somalia: Seized Bangladesh-flagged ship released after 32 days

On 16 April, Operation ATLANTA stated that the 23 crew members of the Bangladesh-flagged cargo carrier, MV Abdullah, were released after 32 days in captivity. The vessel; was hijacked by the Somali pirates on 12 March in the Indian Ocean near the Somali coast. The circumstances of the ship being released are unclear. (“Bangladeshi ship seized off Somali coast is freed after more than a month,” Africanews, 16 April 2024)

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Anu Maria Joseph

Nigeria: Amnesty International calls to block Shell oil business sales

On 15 April, Amnesty International called on the Nigerian government to stop the UK-based oil and gas company, Shell, from selling the country’s onshore oil businesses. The group stated that the sales should be blocked until human rights in the Niger Delta are protected.  It added that the company must provide funds to address the environmental pollution it has caused, which is worth USD 2.4 billion. Frequent oil leaks in the region had caused contamination of the groundwater sources. (“Amnesty urges Nigeria to block Shell oil business sale,” BBC, 15 April 2024)

Nigeria: Inflation hits highest in three decades

On 15 April, the Nigerian National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported that the annual inflation reached the highest level in three decades, increasing to 33.2 per cent. The rising cost of food ingredients including bread, grains, dairy, eggs, meat and vegetable oil is the major trigger of inflation. Increasing energy costs additionally contributed to the rise. The Nigerian Central Bank has increased the borrowing rates twice during the past two months, however, these gains are yet to be witnessed. (“Nigeria inflation hits highest rate in nearly 30 years,” BBC, 15 April 2024)

Sudan: Humanitarian agencies warn of looming famine

On 15 April, Africanews reported on humanitarian agencies warning of a looming famine in Sudan. The civil war in the country marked one year on 14 April. The war has killed thousands and displaced over eight million. In March, the international community warned that immediate action is necessary to “prevent widespread death and total collapse of livelihoods and avert a catastrophic hunger crisis in Sudan.” According to the  Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, 17.7 million people in the country are facing acute food insecurity and five million are one step away from famine. (“Sudan war: risk of famine looms,” Africanews, 15 April 2024)

Tanzania: Floods kill 60

On 15 April, BBC quoted the Tanzanian government that at least 60 people died in heavy floods. The floods have destroyed thousands of farms and houses. A government spokesperson, Mobhare Matinyi, stated: "Serious flood effects are experienced in the coastal region where 11 people have so far died.” The floods have affected the neighbouring country Kenya, where at least 13 people were killed and 15,000 displaced. (“Tanzania floods kill nearly 60 in two weeks,” BBC, 15 April 2024)

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Anu Maria Joseph

South Africa: Electoral commission appeals against Constitutional Court’s ruling on Jacob Zuma’s candidacy

On 12 April, South Africa’s electoral commission appealed to the Constitutional Court against overturning the ban on former President Jacob Zuma standing for the upcoming elections. The commission alleged that the constitution bars the candidacy of individuals who have been sentenced to more than 12 months in prison. In 2021, Zuma was sentenced to 15 months in jail for contempt of court and only served three months in Jail. Zuma is running for his newly formed party, uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), with a bid to end decades of rule under the African National Congress (ANC). (“SA poll body challenges ruling allowing Zuma's candidacy,” BBC, 12 April 2024)

West Africa: Ukraine opens embassies in DRC and Ivory Coast

On 12 April, Ukraine opened an embassy in Ivory Coast. The development came a day after it opened an embassy in the Democratic Republic of Congo. BBC quoted Ukraine’s special envoy for Africa and the Middle East, Maksym Subkh, from French public broadcaster RFI: “A brilliant new chapter has been added to the history of Ukrainian-African and Ukrainian-Ivorian relations.” He appreciated Ivory Coast's “support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, including voting in favour of key UN resolutions on the large-scale Russian invasion.” (“Ukraine opens embassies in DR Congo, Ivory Coast,” BBC, 12 April 2024)

Niger: Russian military instructors arrive to train army

On 12 April, BBC reported that Russian troops arrived in Niger as part of the recent military agreement aiming at boosting Niger-Russia security cooperation. The country cut ties with the West and turned towards Russia after the Military coup in July 2023. One of the Russian military officials told Niger’s state media: "We are here to train the Nigerien army …[and] to develop military cooperation between Russia and Niger.” (“Russian military instructors arrive in Niger to train army,” BBC, 12 April 2024)

IN BRIEF

Anu Maria Joseph

Sudan: Junta to hand over power only to its supporters

On 11 April, Sudanese military leader General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan stated that the army "will not hand over the authority of our state to any internal or external party.” He added: "Anyone who conspired against the Sudanese people inside and outside the country will not have any role to play in the future running of this country.” He warned that democratic rule would not return to the country until the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) which began in April 2023 ends. Peace talks mediated by the US between the warring parties were expected to resume in Jeddah after Eid. However, the RSF leader, Hamdan Dagalo, stated that “there is no other option for the Rapid Support Forces but victory.” (“Sudan army says will only hand over power to its supporters,” BBC, 11 April 2024)

Mali: Junta suspends all political activities

On 11 April, Reuters reported that the Malian junta suspended all political activities in the country. Military spokesperson, Colonel Abdoulaye Maïga, stated that the decision was taken amidst “sterile discussions” during the national dialogue this year. He said that all the activities of political parties are suspended to maintain public order. The announcement came after more than 80 political parties and civil groups called for presidential elections “as soon as possible” to end the military rule. Previously, the junta had agreed to hold elections in February, but were postponed without details. (“Mali: Junta suspends all political activities,” Reuters, 11 April 2024)

IN BRIEF

Anu Maria Joseph

Djibouti: 38 migrants die off the coast of Djibouti

On 9 April, Al Jazeera quoted the International Organization of Migration (IOM) that at least 38 migrants including children died after their boat capsized off the coast of Djibouti. IOM stated that since 2014, nearly 1,000 people have died while crossing the “Eastern Route.” The route takes migrants from Ethiopia, Somalia and Djibouti through Yemen to Arab countries. (“UN says 38 dead, including children, as migrant boat sinks off Djibouti,” Al Jazeera, 9 April 2024)

South Africa: Zuma clears legal barriers to run for elections

On 9 April, Al Jazeera reported on the South African court which ruled that former President Jacob Zum can run for the presidential elections. The ruling came after the country’s electoral commission barred Zuma from running for the elections citing his criminal record. Zuma, a former ANC leader, recently dissented from the party and formed the new uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK) and promised to run for the elections. (“South Africa’s Jacob Zuma wins court bid to contest upcoming election,” Al Jazeera, 9 April 2024)

Democratic Republic of Congo: Three Tanzanian soldiers killed

On 9 April, Africanews reported that three Tanzanian soldiers, part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) forces, were killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The troops have been fighting the M23 rebels in the eastern DRC since December 2022. (“Three Tanzanian soldiers killed in Democratic Republic of Congo,” Africanews, 9 April 2024)

Togo: Developments on the new constitutional review

On 9 April, Togo began talks between the traditional chiefs and parliament members on the constitutional change in the country. On 25 March, the parliament adopted a new constitution replacing the semi-presidential system with a parliamentary system. The move sparked public outcry leading to the consultations. Togo had initially scheduled elections for 20 April but was postponed amidst the tensions. Vice-President of the National Assembly, Mémounatou Ibrahima, stated: "This was an opportunity for us to explain the advantages and disadvantages of both systems. We pointed out the advantage of a parliamentary system. Power will no longer be concentrated in the hands of the President of the Republic.” (“Togo: Consultation between MPs and traditional leaders begin over constitutional review,” Africanews, 9 April 2024)

IN BRIEF

Anu Maria Joseph

Kenya: President visits Central African Republic

On 8 April, Kenyan President William Ruto visited the Central African Republic and held talks with President Faustin Touadera. Touadera stated: "It is a real honour for the Central African Republic and opens up good prospects for cooperation between our two countries. I think this is the first time that a Kenyan president has visited the CAR, and I don't think it will be the last.” He added: "Under your leadership we have seen stability, we have seen peace and we are witnessing progress. And for that, your excellency, on behalf of the people of our region, I want to say congratulations, and you have my support.” Ruto stated: “This inaugural visit opens a big door for us to explore the possibilities that exist between Kenya and the Central African Republic.” He added: “As you have said correctly, we have huge potential in agriculture, and I have agreed with you that we are going to work with our farmers, bring agricultural experts to work with your people here, for technology transfer." (“Kenya and Central African Republic strengthen ties,” Africanews, 8 April 2024)

Zimbabwe: Mnangagwa announces the decision to not run for a third term

On 8 April, Zimbabwean President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, announced that he would not run for an unconstitutional third term. He said: “There is not an iota of evidence where Zanu PF or I, as President, has ever expressed the violation of our Constitution.” Since independence, the Zanu PF party has ruled the country. (“Zimbabwe: I have no intention to run for a third term - President Mnangagwa,” Africanews, 8 April 2024)

IN BRIEF

Anu Maria Joseph

Rwanda: Marks 30 years of genocide

On 7 April, Rwanda marked 30 years of the genocide in 1994. During the commemorating ceremony, President Paul Kagame blamed the international inaction in preventing the genocide which killed 800,000 people. Kagame stated: "Rwanda was completely humbled by the magnitude of our loss, and the lessons we learned are engraved in blood. But the tremendous progress of our country is plain to see and it is the result of the choice we made together to resurrect our nation.” US President, Joe Biden, commented: “We will never forget the horrors of those 100 days, the pain and loss suffered by the people of Rwanda, or the shared humanity that connects us all, which hate can never overcome.” UN human rights chief Volker Turk stated: “I urge states everywhere to redouble their efforts to bring all surviving suspected perpetrators to justice – including through universal jurisdiction – and to combat hate speech and incitement to commit genocide.” (“Kagame blames world's 'cowardice' as Rwanda remembers 1994 genocide,” Africanews, 7 April 2024)

IN BRIEF

Anu Maria Joseph

Sierra Leone: Emergency amidst drug crisis

On 6 April, Sierra Leone declared a national emergency amidst increased use of the drug, Kush. The drug is a mix of marijuana, tentanyl and tramadol, which has caused hundreds of deaths in the country. President Julius Maada Bio called the drug a "death trap.” One of the ingredients in the drug is human bones. Bio stated: "Our country is currently faced with an existential threat due to the ravaging impact of drugs and substance abuse, particularly the devastating synthetic drug kush.” (“Sierra Leone declares emergency over drug kush - made from human bones,” BBC, 6 April 2024)

IN BRIEF

Anu Maria Joseph

Sudan: UN begins to distribute aid in Darfur

On 5 April, Al Jazeera reported that the UN began distributing food in the war-torn Darfur region of Sudan. The move came after months of warning of a looming famine in the region. According to the UN aid agencies, the war between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) has left 18 million people facing acute hunger. In March, UNICEF warned that 222,000 children could die of malnutrition in the region. (“First UN food aid in months arrives in Sudan’s Darfur as famine looms,” Al Jazeera, 5 April 2024)

Zimbabwe: Gold-backed currency to tackle inflation

On 5 April, Zimbabwe’s central bank introduced a new “structured currency” backed by gold. It aims to address the inflation in the country which has reached 55 per cent. The governor of Zimbabwe’s Reserve Bank, John Mushayavanhu, said that the new currency, Zim Gold (ZiG), “With effect from today … banks shall convert the current Zimbabwe dollar balances into the new currency.” He added that the currency aims at enhancing simplicity, certainty, [and] predictability” in the financial affairs of the country. (“Zimbabwe introduces new gold-backed currency to tackle inflation,” Al Jazeera, 5 April 2024)

IN BRIEF

Anu Maria Joseph

Somalia: Ethiopian ambassador expelled

On 4 April, Somalia expelled the Ethiopian ambassador to the country and ordered the closure of consulates. It additionally recalled the ambassador to Ethiopia. The expulsion came after a rise in tensions between the two, following Ethiopia’s port deal with self-declared Somaliland in January. Somalia considers Somaliland as part of its territory and accused Ethiopia of infringing on its “sovereignty and internal affairs.” Somalia described the deal as an act of “aggression” and an "impediment to… peace and stability.” (“Somalia expels Ethiopian ambassador amid row over Somaliland port deal,” BBC, 4 April 2024)

Togo: Delay in elections amidst constitutional reform

On 4 April, BBC reported on Togo announcing the delay in the parliamentary and regional elections over the controversial constitutional reform. According to the reform which was approved the previous week, the country replaced the presidential system with a parliamentary one. The opposition parties rejected the reform citing that it would let President Faure Gnassingbé stay in power. On 3 April, the presidential office announced the postponement of the elections which were initially scheduled for 20 April. The election delay was announced after President Gnassingbé returned the bill for a second reading amidst widespread criticism. (“Togo postpones elections after new constitution row,” BBC, 4 April 2024)

Ethiopia: Federal forces carry out war crimes in Amhara, says HRW

On 4 April, Human Rights Watch (HRW) accused Ethiopian federal forces of summarily executing civilians and committing war crimes in the Amhara region. It called on the UN for an independent investigation. Deputy Africa director at HRW, Laetitia Bader, stated: “Civilians are once again bearing the brunt of an abusive army operating with impunity. The Ethiopian armed forces’ brutal killings of civilians in Amhara undercut government claims that it’s trying to bring law and order to the region.” Additionally, it called on the AU to suspend Ethiopia’s participation in the peacekeeping missions until “commanders responsible for grave abuses are held accountable.” (“Ethiopia’s army accused of committing war crimes in Amhara region,” Al Jazeera, 4 April 2024)

IN BRIEF

Anu Maria Joseph

Uganda: Constitutional Court rejects appeal against anti-LGBTQ law

On 3 April, Uganda’s Constitutional Court rejected an appeal seeking to annul the anti-LGBTQ law. The court ruled that a few sections of the law were “inconsistent with the right to health, privacy and freedom of religion.”; however, did not suspend the law. Uganda’s deputy chief justice and head of the court, Richard Buteera, stated: “We decline to nullify the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 in its entirety, neither will we grant a permanent injunction against its enforcement.” Uganda-based Human Rights Awareness and Promotion Forum (HRAPF) said that the decision “unfortunately will fuel human rights violations” against the LGBTQ community in the country. Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 imposes a lifetime in prison for same-sex relations and describes “aggravated homosexuality” as an offence punishable by death. (“Uganda’s Constitutional Court rejects petition against anti-gay law,” Al Jazeera, 3 April 2024)

Zimbabwe: National disaster announced amidst severe drought

On 3 April, Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared a national disaster amidst the prolonged drought. Mnangagwa stated that the country requires USD two billion to address the hunger crisis induced by the drought. According to BBC, nearly 2.7 million people in the country face hunger. According to the World Food Programme (WFP), 13.6 million people are experiencing crisis-level food insecurity across the region. (“Zimbabwe's President Mnangagwa declares national disaster over drought,” BBC, 3 April 2024)

Senegal: Ousmane Sonko appointed as Prime Minister

On 3 April, Senegal’s new President, Diomaye Faye, appointed Ousmane Sonko as the Prime Minister of the country. Faye announced the appointment after he was sworn in as the President. Since 2021, Sonko has been at the centre of Senegal’s politics for his years-long protest against the former government. He was arrested, and his party was banned and barred from running elections after the former government accused him of corrupting the youth. Faye, a follower of Sonko replaced Sonko as the Presidential candidate promising to fight rampant corruption. (“Senegal’s Faye appoints ally Ousmane Sonko as prime minister,” Al Jazeera, 3 April 2024)

IN BRIEF

Vetriselvi Baskaran 

Mali: Political parties call for early elections 

On 2 April, Malian political parties demanded an early presidential election, as the transition period expired last month. The junta has not yet responded to the demands. In August 2020, Ibrahim Boubacar Keita was overthrown in a military coup. In March 2022, the military extended the transition for a year. (“Mali parties call for polls 'as soon as possible',” BBC, 4 April 2024)

Democratic Republic of Congo: President appoints first female Prime Minister 

On 2 April, President Felix Tshisekedi appointed Judith Suminwa Tuluka as the first female Prime Minister of the country. Tuluka, previously the Minister of Planning, succeeded Jean Michel Sama Lukonde following Tshisekedi's reelection in December 2023. (“DR Congo president names Judith Suminwa Tuluka as first woman PM,” Al Jazeera, 4 April 2024)

Egypt: A third term for President Sisi

On 2 April, Egypt’s President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi of Egypt would take office for a third consecutive six-year term on 3 April, after winning elections in December securing 89.9 per cent of the vote. Sisi took office in 2014 after a military coup which overthrew his Islamist predecessor Mohammed Morsi. (“Egypt's Sisi due to be sworn in for third term,” BBC, 4 April 2024)

IN BRIEF

Anu Maria Joseph

Rwanda: Kagame acknowledged as presidential candidate by seven political parties

On 1 April, two of the Rwandan political parties, the Liberal Party (LP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP), acknowledged Paul Kagame, the candidate of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), for the presidential elections scheduled for July. The PSD president, Vincent Biruta, stated: “It is a good thing that President Kagame acknowledges and considers ideas from other political parties.” Kagame has ruled the country for decades, securing more than 90 per cent of votes during the 2003, 2010 and 2017 elections. Critics and rights groups accuse him of the authoritarian character of his government. (“Rwanda: Kagame endorsed as candidate by seven political parties,” Africanews, 1 April 2024)

Ethiopia: 70,000 national repatriated from Saudi Arabia

On 1 April, the Ethiopian Minister of State, Birtukan Ayano, announced that the country would repatriate 70,000 citizens living in Saudi Arabia this month. According to the Ethiopian Refugees and Returnees Service (RSS), four million Ethiopians have been displaced to several countries amidst conflicts and environmental issues. In March 2022, Ethiopia signed a deal with Saudi Arabia to repatriate 100,000 Ethiopians after human rights groups accused Saudi Arabia of exploiting foreign labourers. (“Ethiopia to repatriate 70,000 nationals from Saudi Arabia,” Africanews, 1 April 2024)

IN BRIEF

Anu Maria Joseph

Democratic Republic of Congo: Worsening humanitarian crisis

On 29 March, the UN warned of the deteriorating security situation and humanitarian conditions in the Democratic Republic of Congo amidst the increasing M23 campaign. The head of the UN’s DRC peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, Bintou Keita, told the UNSC: “One Congolese person out of four faces hunger and malnutrition. More than 7.1 million people have been displaced in the country. That is 800,000 people more since my last briefing three months ago.” Since February, the fighting between the DRC forces and the M23 rebels has intensified with the rebels significantly advancing towards the major regional economic hub, Goma. (“Eastern DRC ‘at breaking point’ as security, humanitarian crises worsen,” Al Jazeera, 29 March 2024)

Egypt: Population declines by 1.4 per cent

On 29 March, Egypt’s Ministry of Planning announced that the population growth of the country decreased by 1.4 per cent. According to Egyptian statistics, Egypt is the most populous country in the Arab world with 106 million. Although the ministry did not mention any cause behind it, the development is perceived as advantageous. 60 per cent of the population lives in poverty and the country faces challenges in terms of schools and hospitals alongside the growing debt. (“Egypt: population growth declines to 1.4%,” Africanews, 29 March 2024)

IN BRIEF

Anu Maria Joseph

Madagascar: 11 dies in cyclone Gamane

On 28 March, Al Jazeera reported that at least 11 people were killed in Cyclone Gamane which hit northern Madagascar. More than 7,000 people have been affected by the cyclone. The cyclone moved with an average speed of 150 kilometres per hour and heavy rainfall. (“Eleven dead, thousands affected as Cyclone Gamane batters Madagascar,” Al Jazeera, 28 March 2024)

South Africa: Zuma barred from elections

On 28 March, the electoral commission of South Africa barred former President Jacob Zuma from running for the elections in May. Zuma announced a run under his newly formed party, uMkhonto WeSizwe (MK), after dissenting from the African National Congress (ANC). The electoral commission claimed that “any person who was convicted of an offence and sentenced to more than 12 months imprisonment without the option of a fine” cannot stand in an election. In 2021, Zuma was sentenced to 15 months in jail over corruption charges. (“South Africa’s ex-President Jacob Zuma barred from May elections,” Al Jazeera, 28 March 2024)

Russian Wagner group accused of carrying out killings, HRW report

On 28 March, Human Rights Watch (HRW) in its recent report accused the Russian mercenary group, Wagner, of assisting the Malian forces in carrying out raids and drone strikes. A senior researcher at HRW, Ilaria Allegrozzi, stated: "Mali's Russia-backed transitional military government is not only committing horrific abuses, but it is working to eliminate scrutiny into its human rights situation.” The group documented that the Wagner Group along with the junta has been carrying out attacks on civilians in northern Mali. (“HRW accuses Wagner of killing civilians with Malian army,” Africanews, 28 March 2024)

IN BRIEF

Vetriselvi Baskaran and Narmatha S

Sudan: Technocrats to run the government until elections

On 26 March, BBC reported that Sudan's ruling Sovereign Council member, General Ibrahim Jabir Ibrahim, stated that the military would form a non-political “technocratic government” until the elections are held. He added that the "technocratic government will manage the affairs of the Sudanese people and prepare for elections.” General Ibrahim's announcement came days after Sovereign Council member, Lt Gen Yasir al-Atta, asserted that the military would not cede power to civilians until elections are held in the country. (“Technocrats to run Sudan until elections - official,” BBC, 26 March 2024) 

South Africa: ANC fails to dismiss the candidacy of Jacob Zuma

On 26 March, South Africa's electoral court rejected the ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC), claim against the newly formed party backed by the country’s former President Jacob Zuma. The ANC accused Zuma’s party, uMKhonto weSizwe (MK), of not following the criteria for official registration in contesting the election. South Africa has scheduled its elections for 29 May. (“South Africa court rejects bid to deregister Zuma's party,” BBC, 26 March 2024) 

South Sudan: Children affected by measles in the country, reports MSF

On 26 March, the Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) warned of the ill situation on the health of children as the cases of measles keep increasing at an alarming rate in South Sudan and Yemen. Since February 2024, seven children have died and more than 450 children under the age of five have been affected. In recent days, MSF's hospital unit in Taiz Houban in Yemen had more than 1500 measles cases reported. These underdeveloped states of Africa have low vaccination rates and lack basic medical facilities. (“Hundreds of children suffer measles in South Sudan - MSF,” BBC, 26 March) 

Senegal: New President-elect vows reform

On 26 March, BBC reported on Senegal’s President-elect Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s first address. Bassirou Diomaye Faye, the incoming president of Senegal, pledged “humility and transparency” in his first speech after the election on 24 March. With his primary competitor conceding defeat, 44-year-old political beginner Faye is set to become the country's youngest president. In light of the current disturbances, Faye stressed a "break with the past" and prioritized “national reconciliation.” He promised to tackle the cost-of-living crisis, fortify institutions, and fight corruption. Though official results are still pending, Faye has a substantial lead, and nationwide celebrations have begun. Only two weeks after his release from prison, he had achieved this feat. (“ I will govern with humility - Senegal's Faye,” BBC, 26 March 2024)

Zambia: Debt restructuring deal

On 26 March, Zambia signed a deal with its creditors to restructure its foreign debt of USD 3.5 billion. The deal entails a forgiveness of USD 840 million by private investors. The agreement came after months of disagreements about the restructuring terms between China and other creditors. President Hakainde Hichilema welcomed the deal as "a historic milestone.” The deal is part of the G20 Common Framework, launched in 2020, to provide debt relief to low-income countries. Zambia has become the first country to receive debt restructuring under this framework. (“Zambia strikes debt restructuring deal with creditors,” BBC, 26 March 2024)

IN BRIEF

Vetriselvi Baskaran 

Senegal: The opposition leads the poll

On 25 March, Al Jazeera reported on people’s early celebration as Bassirou Diomaye Faye was leading the polls with 53.7 per cent of votes, followed by Amadou Ba 36.2 per cent. Although the results are not declared, the supporters celebrated as five of the 17 candidates congratulated Faye for leading the polls. However, the main rival from the ruling coalition, Amadou Ba, says a final decision is needed before deciding the winner and called the celebrations “premature.” Faye, addressed the public with his manifesto of governing the state with humility and transparency and curbing corruption at every level. One of the priorities he mentioned was “nation reconciliation” as the country has been in deep political unrest for the past three years. (“Senegal’s Bassirou Diomaye Faye takes early lead in presidential election & I will govern with humility - Senegal's Faye,” Al Jazeera, 25 March 2024)

Mozambique: SADC troops’ withdrawal

On 25 March, BBC reported on the Southern African bloc’s troop withdrawal from Mozambique. Financial constraints have compelled the Southern African Development Community (SADC) troops to leave Mozambique by July. Mozambique is looking for bilateral assistance to cover the void created by SADC's exit. This follows six years of fighting insurgency in the Cabo Delgado region. (“ Southern African force to quit Mozambique over lack of money,” BBC, 25 March 2024) 

Chad: Constitutional Council releases the candidate list for elections

On 25 March, the Constitutional Council of Chad approved ten candidates for the presidential elections which are scheduled for 6 May. Interim President General Mahamat Idriss Deby is one of the ten candidates. Deby announced an 18-month transition in 2021 after seizing the power. However, he postponed the elections which sparked protests. (“Chad's junta chief, nine others cleared for May election,”  BBC, 25 March 2024)

IN BRIEF

Vetriselvi Baskaran and Narmatha S

Rwanda: Refuge granted to 91 Libyans

On 22 March, Rwanda granted refuge to 91 asylum seekers from Libya under a programme backed by the UN’s refugee agency, the EU, and the AU. The refugees are from South Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, and Eritrea. Since 2019, more than 2,150 refugees have arrived in Rwanda under the program, with over 1,600 resettled abroad. (“Rwanda receives dozens of refugees from Libya,” BBC, 22 March 2024) 

Algeria: President reschedules election

On 22 March, BBC reported that Algerian President, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, preponed the presidential election by three months, rescheduling it to 7 September. The election was previously scheduled for December. Tebboune, who won 58 per cent of the vote in 2019 elections is yet to announce his candidacy. (“Algerian leader announces early presidential election,” BBC, 22 March 2024) 

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S

Ghana: Speaker condemns delayed signing of anti-LGBTQ+ bill 

On 21 March, BBC reported that Ghana's speaker disapproved of the intake of new ministers amidst President Akufo-Addo's delay in signing the anti-LGBTQ bill. He condemned the president's delay in signing the bill as “contemptuous.” The presidency asked the bill to the table after resolving the issues. The bill, which was introduced in February, criminalises identifying as LGBTQ+ and groups or individuals supporting the LGBTQ community. (“Ghana's anti-LGBTQ+ bill: Parliament speaker halts approval of cabinet nominees,” BBC, 21 March 2024)

IN BRIEF

Vetriselvi Baskaran and Narmatha S

Sudan: Worst humanitarian disaster in recent years, says the UN

On 20 March, the UN warned of the worst humanitarian tragedy in Sudan since the war. The director of operations at the UN Office for Coordination for Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Edem Wosornu, stated that Sudan remains in the worst condition in meeting humanitarian needs, displaced people, and hunger crises. The UN's Ramadan ceasefire proposal was rejected by the warring parties. UN World Food Program (WFP) deputy executive director, Carl Skau, warned of a high risk of increased famine levels in May due to changing agricultural seasons. The power struggle between the rival forces, the RSF and the SAF, has led to eight million people being displaced, with 18 million facing acute food insecurity. (“Sudan one of the ‘worst humanitarian disasters in recent memory’, UN warns,” Al Jazeera, 20 March 2024)

Senegal: Foreign investors on alert ahead of elections

On 20 March, Al Jazeera reported that foreign investors in Senegal are on alert and keeping a close eye on Senegal's election due to prevailing political uncertainties and the unknown direction of the country's economy if the opposition wins. Opposition candidates Amadou Ba and Bassirou Diomaye Faye have proposed economic changes including the creation of new currencies and the renegotiation of mining and energy contracts. For foreign investors, Senegal has been the safest country in West Africa due to the peaceful transitions of power. Since the announcement of delayed elections, violent protests and the crackdown on the opposition, investors have been cautious. (“Foreign investors on alert as Senegal nears election marred by uncertainty,” Al Jazeera, 20 March 2024)

South Sudan: Ethnic ambush kills at least 15

On 20 March, BBC reported that at least 15 people were killed in a surprise attack by a rival community in the Boma county in South Sudan. Although the 2018 peace deal ended the civil war in South Sudan, the ethnic violence continues. Often, cattle raids are acts of revenge by ethnic groups including Murle, Anyuak, Nuer, and Dinkas. (“At least 15 people killed in South Sudan ambush,” BBC, 20 March 2024)

Zimbabwe: Free grain from Russia

On 20 March, Zimbabwe received 250,000 tonnes of wheat and 23,000 tonnes of fertiliser from the Russian government and the Uralchem-Uralkali group of Russian companies. The donation is part of the free grain transfer program initiated by Russia in 2023. The programme supports drought-affected countries including Burkina Faso, Mali, Eritrea, Somalia, and the Central African Republic. Russia's ambassador to Zimbabwe, Nikolai Krasilnikov, described it as "humanitarian assistance.” He added: "Both deliveries were carried out in line with the implementation of the initiative of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin to assist African countries." (“Russia donates wheat and fertilizer to Zimbabwe,” BBC, 20 March 2024)

Nigeria: Mega Solar plant commenced

On 20 March, BBC reported that Nigeria launched the Mega solar plant as part of its plan for transition to clean and renewable energy. It would be jointly built by the privately owned North South Power (NSP) company and the state-run Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) in Shiroro region in the Niger state. While signing the agreement, Nigeria's Vice-President, Kashim Shettima, stated: "This is a pioneering project in terms of hybridizing power in solar and hydro." (“Nigeria launches mega solar plant to boost national grid,”  BBC, 20 March 2024) 

IN BRIEF

Vetriselvi Baskaran and Narmatha S

Uganda: Alert as ADF militants cross the border from DRC

On 19 March, BBC reported that security officials in Uganda alerted as fighters from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an IS-linked group, entered the country from DR Congo. The militants are suspected of targeting urban areas, holy places, schools, and public events and insisted the public remain cautious. The group conducts attacks, especially in schools, despite Ugandan Prime Minister Yoweri Museveni claiming the destruction of the group. (“Uganda on alert as IS-linked ADF militants cross border from DR Congo,” BBC, 19 March 2024)

South Sudan: 35 per cent increase in people affected by violence, UNMISS report

On 19 March, the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) released a report indicating a 35 per cent increase in the number of people affected by violence. It documented 233 violent incidents. 86 per cent of civilians are affected by inter-communal violence carried out by militias or civil defence groups. The head of UNMISS, Nicholas Haysom, stated: “Intercommunal conflict continues to cause immense harm to communities.” The majority of them are part of the clashes between the two factions of the Dinka ethnic group, Twics and the Ngoks, in the Abeiy region. (“UN reports 35 percent increase in people affected by South Sudan violence,” Al Jazeera, 19 March 2024)

Kenya: President signs controversial housing levy bill into law
On 19 March, Kenyan President William Ruto signed a controversial bill into law where people have to pay 1.5 per cent of their monthly income as a housing levy. Through the law, President Ruto aims to provide affordable houses for poorer Kenyans. However, a larger section of the Kenyan population is against the law as it pressures and burdens them to pay high taxes. Previously, the levy was only for people in the formal sector who got a regular monthly wage. However, the new law includes levies for non-salary Kenyans in the informal sector as well. The government argues that increased taxation would develop the country and reduce the budget deficit. (“Kenya housing levy: President Ruto signs controversial law paving way for monthly deductions,” BBC, 19 March 2024)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

South Sudan: Extreme heatwave hits the country

On 18 March, the BBC reported on the chaotic weather conditions in South Sudan that led to the closure of schools. South Sudan has been hit by extreme heat waves as the temperature is expected to rise to 45C. Due to the El-Nino weather phenomenon, rains are expected after the heatwave that may cause flooding in the southern region. (“South Sudan heatwave: Extreme weather shuts schools and cuts power,” BBC, 18 March 2024)

Egypt: Migration agreement with the EU 

On 18 March, according to the BBC, the EU and Egypt signed an agreement worth EUR 7.4 billion. It focuses on boosting cooperation in trade, and security and preventing the flow of migration to Europe. Grants, loans, and several funds are in line to address the sluggish Egypt’s economy which is the major reason for people moving to Europe. Egypt's President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi stated: "This shall encompass tackling the root-causes through development-focused solutions and improving regular migration routes." (“EU and Egypt sign $8bn deal to curb migration,” BBC, 18 March 2024)

Nigeria: 87 people abducted in Kaduna

On 18 March, the BBC reported that at least 87 people were abducted in the Kajuru region of Kaduna state. The abductees included women and children. According to the residents, the gunmen were dressed like military personnel. The report commented that authorities are incapable of addressing the daily abductions and mounts pressure on President Bola Tinubu. (“Gunmen in Nigeria kidnap at least 87 people in new attack,” Al Jazeera, 18 March 2024)

East Africa: Eritrea and Somalia hold bilateral talks

On 18 March, BBC reported on the bilateral talks between the leaders of Eritrea and Somalia. Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud discussed the regional issues during the bilateral talks in the Eritrean capital Asmara. Eritrean Information Minister Yemane Meskel stated that the meeting included discussions on issues including militant problems in Somalia. (“Somali president holds security talks with Eritrean leader,” BBC, 18 March 2024) 

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Niger: Suspends military cooperation with the US

On 17 March, Niger’s military spokesperson Colonel Amadou Abdramane announced the suspension of the military agreement with the US which allowed the latter to install military bases to operate in Niger. This immediate call-off came after the recent US delegates' visit. Abdramane stated: “Niger regrets the intention of the American delegation to deny the sovereign Nigerien people the right to choose their partners and types of partnerships capable of truly helping them fight against terrorism.” During the visit, the US delegates warned Niger of its increasing ties with Iran and Russia. (“Niger suspends military cooperation with US: Spokesman,” Al Jazeera,17 March)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Africa: Indian Navy rescues cargo vessels from pirates

On 16 March, the Indian Navy rescued a Maltese-flagged bulk carrier, MV Ruen, which was hijacked three months before. The merchant vessel was hijacked in December by the Somalian pirates with 17 crew members. According to the Navy, all the 35 pirates on board were forced to surrender and raided for the possession of illegal arms, ammunition and contraband. The hijacking of MV Ruen by Somali pirates in December marked their first successful operation since 2017. (“Indian navy captures ship from Somali pirates, rescu’ing 17 crew members,” BBC, 16 March)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Africa: 60 migrants die in the Mediterranean Sea

On 15 March, BBC reported that at least 60 migrants died after a rubber dinghy broke down in the Mediterranean Sea. The survivors claimed that they had departed from Zawiya, near the Libyan coast. The engine of the dinghy broke and was deserted in the sea for three days without food and water. Several of the migrants died of dehydration and hunger and not of drowning. (“60 migrants die in dinghy in Mediterranean, survivors say,” BBC, 15 March)

Senegal: Opposition leader Ousame Sonko released

On 15 March, Al Jazeera reported that Senegal’s main opposition leader, Ousmane Sonko, was released from prison following the political crisis triggered by President Macky Sall’s announcement of election postponement. Macky Sall’s government abruptly passed a bill postponing the elections scheduled for 24 February to December. The postponement sparked violent protests. Later, the Constitutional Council annulled the postponement and is now due to take place on 24 March. The arrest of Sonko in June 2023 sparked similar violent protests. He was arrested on the charges of misleading the youth. Sonko's release ahead of the elections was celebrated by the youth who supported his anti-corruption stance. (“Senegal’s top opposition leaders released from prison as elections loom,” Al Jazeera, 15 March 2024)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Algeria: To boost renewable energy sources

On 14 March, Algeria, a major oil and gas exporter, signed contracts with local and international companies in a bid to develop two solar energy projects with a capacity of 3,000 MW. The country aims to reach a renewable energy capacity of 15,000 MW by 2035 by producing 27 per cent of its energy requirements from wind, solar and hydro. The major objective is to reduce reliance on oil and gas. Currently, only three per cent of the country’s energy production depends on renewable sources. (“Algeria to boost energy production with new solar plants,” BBC, 14 March 2024)

Nigeria: Eases sanctions on Niger

On 14 March, President Bola Tinubu announced the ease of sanctions on Niger which were imposed eight months before. He urged the immediate opening of borders, restarting of commercial flights and the supply of electricity. Niger suffered hard from the economic sanctions. In January, along with Mali and Burkina Faso, Niger announced its withdrawal from the West African bloc, ECOWAS, due to the imposed sanctions. (“Nigeria lifts sanctions on Niger and reopens borders,” BBC, 14 March 2024)

Sudan: Darfur women are the rape victims, reports Guardian

On 14 March, the BBC quoted a report by UK's Guardian that Darfur women are rape victims. According to the report, in Geneina, women are sexually exploited by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The most targeted victims are the women of the Masalit community. They identify the perpetrators as dark-skinned ethnic African tribes alleged to be Arab fighters. The war, which is nearly a year, has caused large humanitarian crises and the world's largest displacement crisis.  (“Darfur women allege being victims of targeted rape - report,” BBC, 14 March)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Mozambique: Storm Filipo kills four people

On 12 March, the BBC reported on the storm Filipo that hit the Inhambane province in southern Mozambique. Four people were killed and one was injured in the violent storm. The roads, schools and houses have been reportedly damaged. The storm hit the tourist spots of Tofo and Barra, where several tourist boats were damaged. The communication lines, electricity, and internet facilities have been adversely affected by the storm. (“Four dead as Storm Filipo batters Mozambique,” BBC, 12 March 2024) 

Sudan: SAF regains state headquarters in Omdurman

On 12 March, BBC reported on the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) regaining the headquarters of the state broadcaster in Omdurman. Since the war broke out, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) had the upper hand in Omdurman. Despite the UN's calls for a ceasefire ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, fighting continues. (“Sudan conflict: Army retakes state broadcaster's headquarters from RSF,” BBC, 12 March 2024) 

Somalia: Cargo ship hijacked at the coast of Somalia

On 12 March, the armed pirates attacked a cargo ship in the Indian Ocean, which is 600 nautical miles off the Somalian coast. The cargo travelling from Mozambique to the UAE was attacked by nearly 20 armed men. No group has taken responsibility. The Gulf of Aden and Somali Basin have become hotspots of piracy, where nearly 20 hijackings have taken place since November 2023. (“Pirates hijack cargo ship off the coast of Somalia,” BBC, 12 March) 

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Nigeria: Government warns schools of high abduction in 14 states

On 11 March, BBC reported that the government of Nigeria had declared schools in 14 states as targets for assaults, following the renewed wave of kidnappings. The National Coordinator of Financing Safe Schools in Nigeria, Hajia Halima Iliya, stated that the agency is ready to guide intervention measures with the collected information. (“Nigeria warns schools in 14 states at risk of kidnappings,” BBC, 11 March 2024) 

Libya: Rival parties agree on unified government

On 11 March, BBC reported that the President of the Libyan Presidential Council and the leader of the Benghazi-based administration had agreed to form a new unified government to supervise the long-delayed elections and “unify sovereign positions.” The talks between these rival governments were held under the leadership of the Secretary of the Arab League, General Ahmed Aboul Gheit, in Cairo. Libya was engulfed by a civil war in 2014 after the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The civil war split the country between the internationally recognised government in the west, led by interim Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah in Tripoli, and the administration in the east backed by military strongman Khalifa Haftar in Benghazi. (“Rival Libyan leaders agree to form unified government,” BBC, 11 March 2024) 

Sudan: US special envoy kicked off his diplomatic tour

On 11 March, BBC reported that the newly appointed US special envoy to Sudan, Tom Perriello, began his diplomatic tour to East Africa and the Gulf. He would visit Ethiopia, Djibouti, Kenya, Uganda, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The development came ahead of the one-year completion of the civil war in Sudan and the UN’s proposal for a ceasefire during Ramadan. (“US Sudan envoy to meet alleged RSF backers,” BBC, 11 March 2024) 

Ethiopia: Discussion over ending Tigray conflict’s peace agreement delayed 

On 11 March, the federal government and the Tigrayan regional state initiated talks to end the Pretoria peace agreement which was brokered in November 2022. The delay in implementation escalated further tensions in the country. The agreement tries to look at power-sharing, regional autonomy and resource control. (“Talks open between Ethiopia and Tigray authorities,” BBC,  11 March 2024) 

Somalia: US’s action to destroy Somali Islamists 

On 11 March, the US Department of the Treasury announced that it would support Somalia in its "campaign to degrade this deadly terrorist group,” referring to Al Shabab. The department added that the Al Shabab militant group, which controls vast regions of Somalia, has been renamed as a "transnational money-laundering network.” The move is to reduce attention given to the group as an Al-Qaeda-linked Islamist militant group. (“US hits Somali Islamist network with sanctions,” BBC,  11 March 2024) 

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Mozambique: UN out of funds to help terror victims

On 8 March, the UNHCR Chief, Filippo Grandi, appealed to the World Bank and other partners to aid Mozambique in development and the humanitarian crisis. The UN provides only 17 per cent of the funding in relief to Mozambique. Cabo Delgado, a mineral-rich province of Mozambique is plunged into frequent Islamist attacks that destroy its peace and stability. Grandi stated: "As a United Nations organisation, [we] are committed to providing a large-scale response to the humanitarian drama in Cabo Delgado, but unfortunately, without sufficient resources, we will have no alternative but to do less of what we should do." (“UN running out of money to help Mozambique terror victims,” BBC, 8 March 2024)

South Africa: Builds concrete wall to block Mozambicans

On 8 March, BBC reported that South Africa has allocated USD 2.7 million to build a concrete wall along its border with Mozambique to prevent people crossing to steal and smuggle vehicles. The barriers are being set up in three sectors. An eight-kilometre barrier near Tembe Elephant Park which is under construction; an eight-kilometre long stretch near iSimangaliso Wetland Park; a nine-kilometre wall from the western boundary of Tembe Elephant Park towards Pongolo River. The project received positive responses from the people and the South African National Defense Force. (“South Africa builds concrete wall to keep out Mozambicans,” BBC, 8 March 2024)

Sudan: UNSC demands ceasefire during Ramadan

On 8 March, while the delegates to the UN Security Council were debating a British-drafted resolution, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres pleaded with the parties at odds to put an end to hostilities ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. He asserted that this move would bring a road to peace. In addition, he cautioned about the spiralling humanitarian crisis in Sudan. (“UN chief calls for Ramadan ceasefire in Sudan,” BBC, 8 March 2024)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Zimbabwe: Condemns the US sanctions on officials

On 7 March, Zimbabwe condemned the recently imposed US sanctions on senior officials on the grounds of corruption and human rights abuses. The spokesperson for President Mnangagwa described the accusations as “defamatory.” The deputy chief secretary of the president, George Charamba, demanded the removal of “illegal coercive measures” immediately, and urged the UN, the AU, and SADC to back Zimbabwe. (“Zimbabwe condemns fresh ‘illegal and coercive’ US sanctions,” BBC, 7 March 2024)

Africa: Three West African states form joint force to counter Jihadists

On 7 March, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso announced the formation of a joint force to fight Jihadists. During the talks in the Nigerian capital Niamey, Niger's army chief Moussa Salaou Barmou stated that it would be operational without giving further information about the joint force. The region has undergone massive attacks that killed more than thousands of people in 2023 by groups linked to both Islamic State and al-Qaeda. (“Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso to form joint force to fight jihadists,” BBC, 8 March 2024) 

Senegal: President announces the election date

On 7 March, after riots and tensions, the government announced the date of the presidential election on 24 March. The decision was welcomed by the opposition. President Macky Sall was accused of attempting a constitutional coup to prolong his tenure, which was seen as a threat to democracy. President Macky Sall’s term in office will end on April 2. Senegal is the only country in West Africa that has never undergone a coup and is one of the stable democracies in Africa. (“Senegal President Mack Sall announces 24 March election,” BBC, 7 March 2024)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Liberia: Taskforce to tackle corruption

On 6 March, President Joseph Boakai set up a new task force to address corruption. The task force is ordered to investigate corruption carried out by senior and past officials. Boakai, who was elected in January, vowed to address corruption during the election campaign. He stated that the assets, "wrongfully acquired at the expense of the government and people of Liberia," should be returned. (“Liberia's leader sets up task force to fight corruption,” BBC, 6 March 2024)

The Gambia: UN demands to withdraw a bill repealing FGM 

On 6 March, the UN warned against the Gambian parliament's proposal to lift the ban on Female Genital and demanded to withdraw it. Muslim religious leaders pressed the state to repeal FGM, whereas the rights activists started contesting it. (“UN asks The Gambia to withdraw bill lifting FGM ban,” BBC, 6 March 2024)

Democratic Republic of Congo: M23 rebels advanced in the town of Nyanzale

On 6 March, the BBC reported that the military lost the town of Nyanzale, which is 80 miles north of Goma, to the M23 rebels. Rebel spokesperson, Willy Ngoma, stated: "We are now in Nyanzale, the enemy has fled.” Army commander, Jerome Chico Tshitambwe, confirmed the capture. (“M23 rebels seize town in eastern DR Congo,” BBC, 6 March 2024)

Sudan: Government agrees to aid via borders 

On 6 March, the military-led government in Sudan agreed to humanitarian aid via Chad and South Sudan. Previously, it banned the routes, claiming that the UAE had used the route to supply weapons to the Rapid Support Force (RSF). Clementine Nkweta-Salami, the UN humanitarian coordinator in Sudan, welcomed the decision stating that people in dire need will get assistance. (“Sudan agrees for aid to come via Chad and South Sudan,” BBC, 6 March 2024)

Sudan: WFP warns on largest-ever hunger crisis

On 6 March, the World Food Program (WFP) warned that the conflict in Sudan would trigger the largest-ever hunger crisis in Sudan. The conflict between the rival forces has crossed ten months. It has killed more than 14,000 people and displaced over eight million. Head of the World Food Program (WFP) Cindy McCain, during her visit to a camp in South Sudan, stated: “The victims of the war had been forgotten.” (“Sudan war may spark world's largest hunger crisis - WFP,” BBC, 6 March 2024)

Malawi: Flash floods kill six

On 6 March, the BBC reported on the flash floods that hit Malawi the previous week. At least six people died and four others were injured in the flash floods that hit central Malawi. The Department of Disaster Management Affairs stated that over 14,000 people have been displaced. Humanitarian assistance is hampered due to extensive infrastructure damage. (“Six dead after flash floods in Malawi,” BBC, 6 March 2024)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Mozambique: 70 children missing after jihadist attack

On 5 March, BBC reported that 70 children went missing after a jihadist attack in Mozambique's northern Cabo Delgado province. It is feared that the children were abducted by armed fighters linked to the Islamic State (IS). Chiùre, south of Cabo Delgado, was considered a safe haven for displaced people in the region. However, President Filipe Nyusi recently stated that the jihadists deliberately targeted Chiùre to abduct children. The regional military has been trying to tackle the jihadist insurgency that began in 2017. (“Mozambique jihadist attacks: Fears for 70 missing children," BBC, 5 March 2024) 

Gambia: Bill to scrap the ban on FGM

On 5 March, a bill was presented before the Gambia's parliament by an independent lawmaker to abolish the ban on Female genital mutilation (FGM) in the country. In 2015, the FGM was outlawed by former President Yahya Jammeh, who stated that FGM is not a part of Islam. Regardless, the Muslim clerics pushed to lift the ban on FGM stating: “Female circumcision is my religious belief, Gambia is not for sale.” According to the UN, a three-quarter of Gambian women, aged between 15- 45, undergo FGM. (“FGM in The Gambia: Lawmaker tables bill in parliament to lift ban,” BBC, 5 March 2024) 

Ghana: President to wait for Supreme Court ruling before signing anti-LGBTQ bill

On 5 March, Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo said that he would not sign the anti-LGBTQ bill until the Supreme Court decides on its constitutionality. His decision came after the Ministry of Finance warned that the country would lose billions of dollars in Work Bank funding if it became a law. On 28 February, The Ghanaian parliament passed the bill with a majority. The bill imposes a three-year sentence for those who identify as LGBTQ and a five-year sentence for those who support and fund LGBTQ groups. (“Ghana's anti-LGBTQ+ bill: President Akufo-Addo to wait for Supreme Court ruling,” BBC, 5 March 2024)

Zimbabwe: US imposes sanctions on President Mnangagwa for corruption and human rights allegations

On 5 March, the US imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa under allegations of corruption and human rights abuses. The White House stated: "We continue to witness gross abuses of political, economic, and human rights. The targeting of civil society and severe restrictions on political activity have stifled fundamental freedoms, while key actors, including government leaders, have syphoned off public resources for personal gains.” First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga and Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri are additionally placed under sanctions for similar allegations. (“Zimbabwe: US slaps fresh sanctions on President Mnangagwa and other leaders,” BBC, 5 March 2024)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Somalia: Joins EAC as the eighth member

On 4 March, Somalia joined as a full-time member of the East African Community (EAC) after the successful completion of requirements. The EAC secretariat stated that Somalia gained membership in the bloc “after depositing her Instrument of Ratification with the Secretary General.” In November, Somalia requested to join the bloc to boost the country’s economic growth. However, other members were sceptical of granting the membership due to the flaring insurgency and poverty in the country. (“Somalia becomes full member of East African Community,” BBC, 4 March 2024) 

Sudan: Demand to reinstate AU membership before mediation

On 4 March, Sudan’s military leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan demanded reinstation of the country’s AU membership to consider the AU-led mediation to end the conflict.  Al Burhan stated: “Sudan's confidence in the AU and the potential solutions it can provide to end the war, but only if the state regains its full membership and the organisation treats it as such.” Sudan was suspended from the AU following the military takeover on 25 October 2021. Later, in April 2023, the AU formed a special three-member panel to resolve the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). (“Sudan demands reinstatement before accepting AU mediation,” BBC, 4 March 2024)

Zimbabwe: US imposes sanctions over corruption

On 4 March, The US imposed sanctions on several Zimbabwe’s officials including President Emmerson Mnangagwa for allegedly drawing off money for personal purposes. The US Department of State stated: “With this action, the 2003 executive sanction order is repealed and 11 people and three businesses are added to the worldwide Magnitsky sanctions program's list.” (“US sanctions Zimbabwe president for corruption,” BBC, 4 March 2024)

Ghana: Finance Ministry warns against anti-LGBTQ law 

On 4 March, Ghana’s Ministry of Finance cautioned the government against signing the new anti-LGBTQ bill that would cause a loss of USD 3.8 billion in World Bank funding over the next five years. The ministry suggested President Nana Akufo-Addo not sign the bill until the Supreme Court’s ruling regarding the constitutionality of the bill. The bill was approved by the Ghanaian parliament the previous week. It imposes a three-year sentence for those who identify as LGBTQ and a five-year sentence for supporting or funding LGBTQ groups. (“Ghana's finance ministry warns against anti-LGBT bill,” BBC, 4 March 2024)

Algeria: Extends aid to Mozambique’s fight against Jihadists

On 4 March, in the light of Mozambique President Filipe Nyusi's four-day visit, the Algerian government vowed to extend its support to Mozambique’s fight against Jihadist insurgency in the northern province of Cabo Delgado. Nyusi stated that Algeria has "promised immediate support for the Local Force, the one that is fighting terrorism." (“Algeria pledges to help Mozambique fight jihadists,” BBC, 4 March 2024)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Burkina Faso: Series of attacks kill hundreds

On 3 March, Al Jazeera reported that at least 170 people were killed in a series of attacks in three villages in northern Burkina Faso. The attacks are separate from the attacks on a mosque in Natiaboani and a church in Essakane that killed dozens. Currently, nearly half of the country is under the control of several armed groups. (“About 170 people killed in Burkina Faso attacks, regional official says,” Al Jazeera, 3 March 2024)

Chad: Military leader to run for election

On 2 March, Chad’s military leader, Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, announced that he would run for the presidential election which is scheduled for May. Deby stated: “I, Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, am a candidate for the 2024 presidential election under the banner of the For a United Chad coalition.” The elections are expected to end three years of transition after Mahamat Deby took over the power post-death of his father Idriss Deby. (“Chad interim leader Deby confirms plan to run for president in May,” Al Jazeera, 3 March 2024)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Kenya: Signs a “reciprocal” deal with Haiti

On 1 March, Kenyan President William Ruto announced that Kenya and Haiti signed a “reciprocal” agreement to deploy a police force as part of a UN mission fighting gang violence in Haiti. Ruto stated that with Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry he discussed “ the next steps to enable the fast-tracking of the deployment”, but it was not immediately clear whether the agreement would counter a court ruling in January that branded the deployment “unconstitutional.” Kenya had previously agreed to deploy 1,000 police forces, however was halted by its constitutional court which alleged that the country cannot deploy its force outside. (“Kenya, Haiti sign ‘reciprocal’ agreement on police deployment: Ruto,” Al Jazeera, 1 February 2024)

Sudan: UN human rights chief warns of war crimes

On 1 March, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, stated that a deliberate attempt to disrupt access to humanitarian agencies in the war-torn Sudan would imply a war crime. He stated: “Sudan has become a living nightmare. Almost half of the population – 25 million people – are in urgent need of food and medical aid. Some 80 per cent of hospitals have been put out of service.” The development came after aid supplies were looted, humanitarian workers were attacked and humanitarian agencies complained about bureaucratic challenges to reach out to the conflict-hit regions. According to the UN, the fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has killed at least 14,600 people and injured 26,000. (“UN official warns of possible war crimes, rape as a weapon in Sudan,” Al Jazeera, 1 March 2024)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Senegal: Migrant boat shipwreck causes casualties

On 29 February, BBC reported that a migrant boat, carrying more than 300 people to Europe, sank; 24 people reportedly drowned. The boat sank near the Saint Louis estuary, a meeting point of Senegal and the Atlantic Ocean. President Macky Sall expressed his "deep sadness" stating: "The relevant authorities have been mobilised to provide them with support and assistance." (" At least 24 dead in migrant shipwreck in Senegal," BBC, 29 February 2024) 

Ghana: US raises concern over the anti-LGBTQ bill

On 29 February, the US State Department spokesperson, Matthew Miller, expressed concern over the anti-LGBTQ bill which was passed by the parliament. He averred: “The bill would also undermine Ghana’s valuable public health, media and civic spaces, and economy.” ("US 'deeply troubled' by Ghana's anti-gay bill," BBC, 29 February 2024) 

Chad: Opposition leader killed in shootout

On 29 February, BBC reported that Chad’s opposition politician, Yaya Dillo, was killed in a shootout by security forces in the capital N’Djamena. Dillo and 12 others were killed during the attack. Dillo’s party, Socialist Party Without Borders (PSF), was accused of gunfire on the headquarters of the National Security Agency (ANSE) on 28 February, which was immediately denied by the party. These attacks came after the announcement of the election that is to be held on 6 May. (“Yaya Dillo: Chad opposition leader killed in shootout," BBC, 29 February 2024) 

Zambia: President declares national emergency over drought

On 29 February, President Hakainde Hichilema declared a nationwide emergency due to drought. He stated that 84 districts out of 116 are being affected by the disaster. The country has been receiving poor rainfall, escalating the fear of hunger and energy needs. The Kariba dam's water level has dropped to nearly 11.5 per cent which is used for harnessing hydroelectric power by Zambia and Zimbabwe. The president stated that the drought would affect the production of 450 megawatts of power. (“Zambia declares national emergency over drought,” BBC, 29 February 2024)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Guinea: Opposition leader appointed as Prime Minister

On 28 February, Guinea’s opposition leader Mamadou Oury Bah was appointed as the new Prime Minister. The country’s interim President, Mamady Doumbouya, carried out the sworn-in event. The development came after the military dissolved the interim government without any details. Guinea is expected to end the transition and hold its elections this year. In 2021, the military carried out a coup, ousting the civilian-led government. (“Guinea junta appoints Mamadou Oury Bah as new prime minister,” BBC, 28 February 2024) 

Senegal: Elections to be held on 2 June

On 27 February, after a two-day national dialogue, the panel proposed to hold elections on 2 June. The panel included several civil, political, and religious leaders except the candidates on the ballot. The dialogue focussed on fostering trust among people and candidates. The panel asked the Election Commission to relook at the decision that blocked candidates including Karim Wade, an opposition leader and son of former President Abdoulaye Wade, from the ballot. The development came after the Constitutional Council annulled President Macky Sall’s decision to postpone the elections to December. Violent protests erupted across the country following the announcement of election delay. (“June elections proposed during Senegal dialogue to end political crisis,” BBC, 28 February 2024) 

Ghana: Parliament passes LGBTQ bill

On 28 February, the parliament of Ghana passed a new anti-LGBTQ bill. The bill imposes a sentence of three years for identifying as LGBTQ+ and a five-year jail term for forming or funding LGBTQ+ communities. The bill is yet to be signed by President Nana Akufo-Addo. The bill was initiated by two major political parties who consider gay sex to be a crime and an alien to the Ghanaian culture and family value system. This bill has been condemned by several human rights groups claiming that it is against fundamental human rights and freedom. This bill poses a threat to the LGBTQ+ community living in Ghana. (“Ghana passes bill making identifying as LGBTQ+ illegal,” BBC, 28 February 2024) 

Chad: Attack in the capital 

On 28 February, the BBC reported on the attacks in Chad's capital, N'Djamena, and the National Security Agency's (ANSE) headquarters. Gunfire killed many people and injured several others. The government blamed the opposition Socialist Party Without Borders (PSF) for the attack. However, its leader, Yaya Dillo, denied the allegations. The attack came after the government announced the presidential election on 6 May. The upcoming election will end the transitional government under military leader Mahamt Deby. (“Chad fighting: Heavy gunfire in N'Djamena after attack on security HQ,” BBC, 28 February 2024)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Benin: Deployment of 2000 troops to counter gang violence in Haiti

On 27 February, BBC reported on the announcement by the government of Benin to deploy troops in Haiti. During a press briefing held in Guyana, the US Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, announced that Benin is set to offer 2000 troops to a UN-approved Kenyan-led multinational security force in Haiti aimed at fighting gang violence. Greenfield stated: "This mission is key to helping the Haitian national police restore peace and security, enabling free and fair elections, and alleviating the humanitarian crisis.” (“Benin offers 2,000 troops to Kenya-led Haiti force,” BBC, 27 February 2024) 

Nigeria: Protests against government as inflation hikes

On 27 February, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), a trade union, began its two-day protests against the government to "end hunger and insecurity" across the country. The primary demands of the protesters are to “open all food storage silos and ensure equitable distribution across the country,” and abandon the World Bank and International Monetary Fund policies. Meanwhile, Nigeria's Central Bank has raised interest rates in an initiative to curb inflation. Inflation has reached nearly 30 per cent and millions are struggling for basic needs and food. (“Labour unions in Nigeria kick off two-day protests, Nigeria raises interest rates amid cost-of-living protests,” BBC,  27 February 2024) 

Guinea: Two people killed during protests against the increasing cost of living

On 27 February, Al Jazeera reported that at least two people were killed in a violent protest that erupted in Guinea’s capital Conakry. The protests began after the military dissolved the transitional government without providing a reason. The strike was organised by the confederation of several trade unions, demanding low food prices, media freedom, and the release of the Secretary-General of the Union of Press Professionals of Guinea (SPPG), Sekou Jamal Pendessa. (“Two people shot dead as Guinea protest turns bloody,” Al Jazeera, 27 February 2024) 

Chad: Elections to be held in May

On 27 February, Chadian military authorities announced the delayed elections to be held in May. The polls would put an end to a transition that began in 2021. Gen Mahamat Déby took over the power after his father and President Idriss Deby died in the battleground against insurgent groups. (“Chad set for the first election since the end of civilian rule,” BBC,  27 February 2024)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Burkina Faso: Attack on mosque in Natiaboani

On 26 February, BBC reported that gunmen attacked a mosque in the town of Natiaboani on 25 February. Insurgents currently control a large area of the country. The incident happened on the same day attackers targeted a church in the northern village of Essakane and killed dozens. Attacks on religious buildings have increased recently. No group has claimed the attack. Al Qaeda in the Sahel region asserted that it only captured army barracks in Natiaboani and denied the attack on the mosque. ("Burkina Faso mosque attack: Dozens killed during prayers," BBC, 26 February 2024) 

Ethiopia: Heightening tensions in Amhara

On 26 February, BBC reported on Ethiopia’s Amhara region facing increased fighting between the regional militia, Fano, and the federal forces. The federal authority has blocked a road connecting Debre Birhan and Dese following the fighting. Previously, the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission alleged that the federal troops had carried out dozens of extra-judicial killings in the region. ("Residents in Ethiopian region describe 'intense' clashes," BBC, 26 February 2024) 

Kenya: The US carries out joint military exercises

On 26 February, the US began its military exercise, Justified Accord, in Kenya. Nearly 20 countries took part in the 11-day exercise. The exercise aims to achieve countries' readiness for peacekeeping missions, crisis response, and humanitarian assistance. The US military stated: "Justified Accord, the largest exercise in East Africa, showcases the desire of the US and partner nations to increase readiness and interoperability for regional security and crisis response." ("US begins its largest military exercise in East Africa," BBC, 26 February 2024) 

Nigeria: Army denies report of coup plot

On 26 February, the Nigerian Army denied the reports of a coup attempt. The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) stated that reports were falsified and advised the public to ignore them. The presidential guards were mobilised in the capital Abuja, triggering a suspected coup. (“Nigerian army denies report of coup plot,” BBC, 26 February 2024) 

Ecowas lifts sanctions against Guinea and Niger 

On 26 February, the ECOWAS lifted sanctions imposed on Guinea followed by Niger. ECOWAS stated: "The authority instructs the president of the commission to invite all four Ecowas member states in transition to technical and consultative meetings of Ecowas as well as to all security-related meetings." Previously, the bloc imposed sanctions on Niger, Guinea, Mali and Burkina Faso following the respective coups. The bloc's President Omar Alieu Touray stated that the decision is purely on a "humanitarian basis." In January, Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso left the bloc forming the Alliance of Sahel States. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu urged three countries to reconsider their withdrawal decision. (“West African bloc Ecowas lifts sanctions against Guinea,” BBC, 26 February 2024)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Niger: ECOWAS lifts sanctions

On 24 February, ECOWAS lifted sanctions on Niger which were imposed following the coup in 2023. The announcement came with a condition of immediate release of President Mohamed Bazoum and his family members who were detained following the coup. The bloc's President Omar Alieu Touray stated that the decision is purely on a "humanitarian basis." In January, Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso left the bloc forming the Alliance of Sahel States. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu urged three countries to reconsider their withdrawal decision. ("ECOWAS lifts sanctions on Niger amid tensions in West Africa bloc," Al Jazeera, 24 February 2024) 

Burkina Faso: Terrorist attack on Catholic church

On 25 February, the northern village of Essakane witnessed a terrorist attack carried out by unknown gunmen on a Catholic church. At least 12 people were killed during the attack. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.  According to a report by the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, the number of people killed by armed groups has nearly tripled compared to the previous 18 months. (“At least 15 killed in attack on Catholic church in Burkina Faso,” Al Jazeera, 25 February 2024) 

South Africa: ANC pitches for votes as majority threatened

On 24 February, the African National Congress (ANC) announced its manifesto for the May elections. It fears that the share of the vote could fall below 50 per cent for the first time since independence. Several challenges, including unemployment that rose to 32 per cent, frequent power cuts and high crime levels, led to the ANC losing its popularity. According to BBC, President Cyril Ramaphosa stated: "There are forces that seek to use this election to undo the progress of democracy. It is crucial that together we defend our hard-won freedom.” The ANC  polled above 50 per cent in national elections, enabling it to run the country without challenge since 1994. (“South Africa's ANC pitches for votes as majority threatened,” BBC, 24 February 2024) 

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Ivory Coast: President pardons jailed prisoners

On 23 February, the President of Ivory Coast Alassane Ouattara announced the pardoning of 51 prisoners who were arrested in the post-2010 election on the grounds of crime against state security. The country was flared up by disputes when the incumbent President Laurent Gbagbo declined to give power to the then-poll winner President Ouattara. This move lasted from November 2010 to April 2011 and killed and sexually abused many people. Reports say that this move is part of the President's commitment to work resolutely to consolidate peace." ("Ivory Coast president pardons prisoners jailed for poll violence," BBC, 23 February 2024) 

Zambia: Massive cholera outbreak

On 23 February, the BBC reported on the biggest-ever cholera outbreak in the country. The Cholera has killed almost 700 people, says the medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). Analysis reports that this is the biggest ever Cholera outbreak that the country has witnessed.  The country's capital Lusaka was the main point from where it got to spread to other provinces infecting more than 19,000 people. The disease is mostly caused by contaminated water and unhygienic situations. (“Zambia's biggest-ever cholera outbreak kills almost 700,” BBC, 23 February 2024) 

Sudan: UN exposes Human Rights violations

On 23 February, the UN's Human Rights Office released the report, “Sudan: Horrific violations and abuses as fighting spreads.” This report highlights the human rights crimes committed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) during the past eight months. The report states that thousands of people were killed in ethnically motivated attacks in the Darfur region. It alleges that hundreds of women and children were raped and sexually assaulted and several students were publicly beheaded by both forces. Besides, the report cited satellite images revealing the use of heavy explosives in densely populated areas. (“Child rape and ethnic killings exposed in Sudan - UN,” BBC, 23 February 2024) 

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Kenya: Government exempts entry fee for some foreign countries

On 22 February, the government of Kenya exempted the entry fee of $30 (£23) for South Africa, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Congo-Brazzaville, Comoros, and Mozambique national passport holders but still have to get electronic authorization to visit Kenya. It also scrapped visa requirements for all foreigners visiting Kenya last month. This initiative is seen as an attempt to promote Kenya as a tourist destination and to attract business travellers. Critics say that it could lead to issues with countries that have visa-waiver agreements and with payment for entry, making travel more costly and bureaucratic for them. (“Kenya scraps entry fee for South Africans and several other foreign nationals,” BBC, 22 February 2024) 

Libya: Deal calls for the withdrawal of militias out of Tripoli succeeds

On 22 February, BBC reported that armed gangs who have controlled Tripoli for over a decade have agreed to leave the capital. Interior Minister Imad Trabelsi announced that after extensive discussions, a deal had been reached for regular forces to police Tripoli. The agreement comes after many deadly conflicts in the city in recent months. It calls for at least five armed groups to leave Tripoli before the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan on 9 April, including one based in an area where ten people were killed over the weekend.  Libya has been hammered by numerous armed factions that formed following Muammar Gaddafi's ouster in 2011. (“Libya government says militias to leave Tripoli after deal struck Published 6 days ago,” BBC, 22 February 2024) 

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Somalia: Signs defence deal with Turkey

On 21 February, Somalia signed a defence agreement with Tukey to enhance its maritime security. The deal was signed by Somalia’s Minister of Defence Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur and his Turkish counterpart Yaşar Güler during the former's visit to Türkiye. The ten-year deal allows Turkey to arm and train the Somalian Navy and deploy its troops in Somalian waters. The Somalian coast is prone to several illegal activities and piracy. Somalia’s Prime Minister Hamza Abdi stated that the deal would eliminate such crimes and improve maritime security. (“Somalia approves major defence deal with Turkey,” BBC, 21 February 2024) 

Ghana: Delayed green nuclear plans

On 21 February, BBC reported on Ghana’s plans to build and run one or two nuclear power plants by 2030. Nuclear power is the key to its demand in the energy sector and transit to greener energy. However, the transition is being delayed due to the financial crisis. The executive director of state-run Nuclear Power Ghana, Stephen Yamoah, stated: “We should probably have been starting construction now, but we’re still engaging to identify the [right] vendor.” The Ghanaian government has been negotiating with China, France, Russia, South Korea and the US on their nuclear power development. (“Ghana's green nuclear plans face delay,” BBC, 21 February 2024) 

South Africa: Government to use foreign reserves to pay off debt

On 21 February, at the budget speech by the South African Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana announced plans to tap into the country’s foreign reserves and gold to reduce its debts. South Africa's current borrowings are the highest since 1947. The budget is predominantly spent on servicing the debt rather than developments. (“SA government to use foreign reserves to pay off debt,” BBC, 21 February 2024) 

Ethiopia: Accidental drone strike on civilians

On 21 February, BBC reported on the accidental army drone strike that killed dozens of civilians in the Amhara region. During a confrontation with the Amhara militant group, Fano, the army drone hit a truck that was dropping passengers in Sasit town. 30 civilians were reportedly killed and 18 others were injured. The Amhara region has been under a state of emergency since August 2022. (“Ethiopian army drone kills dozens, witnesses say,” BBC, 21 February 2024) 

Nigeria: NCS to hand out seized food amid crisis

On 21 February, following a food crisis amidst protests in at least five states, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) planned to hand out the seized food items. A spokesperson for the NCS, Abdullahi Maiwada, vowed for equitable transfer of food items to those in dire need. Unspecified tons of rice, groundnut oil, noodles, and other goods would be made available to regular Nigerians. Previously, the African Development Bank (AfDB) had cautioned about the high cost of living, and unpleasant situations are yet to come. ("Nigeria customs to distribute seized food amid crisis," BBC, 21 February 2024) 

Senegal: Justice Minister announced the release of protestors 

On 21 February, Senegal’s Minister of Justice, Aissata Tall Sall, announced the release of 400 protesters who were detained during the protests in March 2021 and June 2023. The release of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko and presidential candidate Bachirou Diomaye Faye is unclear. She stated: "The only thing I can say is that this is not a mass release; these are cases that are studied on a case-by-case basis according to the elements in the files.” The announcement came after Senegal’s Constitutional Council annulled the government's decision to postpone the elections to December 2024. (" Senegal releases hundreds of political prisoners," BBC, 21 February 2024) 

Democratic Republic of Congo: Rebel leaders sanctioned by the UN

On 21 February, the UN imposed an arms embargo, travel ban and asset freeze against six rebel leaders. It includes the military spokesperson of the M23 rebel group, a general of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), two senior leaders in the Ugandan armed group Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a leader of the National Coalition of the People for the Sovereignty of Congo (CNPSC), a member of Mai-Mai group, and a commander of the Twirwaneho armed group. US Alternative Representative for Special Political Affairs in the UN,  Robert Wood, stated: "These individuals are responsible for numerous abuses." ("UN sanctions six DR Congo rebel leaders," BBC, 21 February 2024) 

West African coups spark debate and sanctions

On 21 February, several West African countries witnessed military coups in recent years with leaders ousted due to their perceived failures in handling armed groups. These coups have triggered sanctions from the regional bloc ECOWAS, angering the affected nations. Meanwhile, the situation has sparked debates about the state of democracy in the region, even though locals in some countries seem to have initially welcomed the military takeovers. As regional leaders prepare to meet, concerns linger about the future of democracy and stability in West Africa. ("‘ECOWAS is making efforts to get across to Niger’: Nigerian defence chief," BBC, 21 February 2024) 

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S

South Africa: “Israel’s apartheid must end,” says SA’s ambassador to the Netherlands 

On 20 February, at the second hearing of the case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Israel, South Africa stated that Israel is responsible for apartheid against the Palestinians and its occupation is “inherently and fundamentally illegal.” South Africa’s ambassador to the Netherlands, Vusimuzi Madonsela, stated: “It is clear that Israel’s illegal occupation is also being administered in breach of the crime of apartheid… It is indistinguishable from settler colonialism. Israel's apartheid must end.” More than 50 countries presented their arguments at the ICJ on the legal implications of Israel’s occupation. (“Israel’s apartheid must end,’ South Africa says at ICJ hearing,” Al Jazeera, 20 February 2024) 

Guinea: Military dissolves interim government

On 20 February, the military dissolved the interim government without further details.

The military stated that the directors of the cabinet, secretary generals and their deputies would be in charge until a new government was formed. The military took power in 2021 ousting the first democratically elected president, Alpha Conde. The coup leader, Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, had promised to hand the government to elected civilians by the end of 2024. (“Military leaders dissolve government in Guinea,” Al Jazeera, 20 February 2024) 

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Senegal: Opposition calls for voting in six weeks

On 19 February, BBC reported that 15 of 20 presidential candidates demanded elections by 2 April. The 15 candidates insisted that the list should not be altered. President Macky Sall planned to postpone the elections to December citing issues in the eligibility of the candidates. However, the move was annulled by the Constitutional Council calling it “unconstitutional.” (“Senegal candidates call for vote within six weeks,” BBC, 19 February) 

Africa: Increase in African migrants in Mexico trying to reach the US

On 19 February BBC reported on the surge in African migrants in Mexico, trying to reach the US. Compared to the previous year, the statistics say that the number of migrants surged nine times. Around 6,500 African migrants reached Mexico in 2022, whereas, in 2023 the number increased to 60,000. The migrants pay smugglers to reach their destination. The head of the Mission International Organisation for Migration Mexico (UN-IOM), Dana Graber Ladek, stated that the majority of migrants are from Guinea, Angola, Mauritania, Senegal, Nigeria and Cameroon. (“Mexico sees surge of African migrants hoping to reach US,” BBC, 19 February 2024) 

Nigeria: Protests against increased cost of living

On 19 February, BBC reported on the protests condemning the increased cost of living in Nigeria. Protests are held in the cities of Oyo and Ibadan demanding price reductions for goods and services. Increased inflation, high food prices and the government's decision to end a long-running fuel subsidy are the factors behind the increasing cost of living. (“Protests in Nigeria over rising cost of living,” BBC, 19 February 2024) 

Nigeria: Information Minister denies opposition's allegations 

On 19 February, Nigeria's Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, rejected President Bola Tinubu's resignation called by the country's main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) denying allegations against him. The development came following the persisting economic challenges and rising food crises. The minister stated: "The President will courageously continue to wrestle with the challenges and surmount them, laying a durable foundation for the new Nigeria that is emerging." ("Calls for Tinubu's resignation a 'distraction' - minister," BBC, 19 February 2024) 

Tunisia: Opposition leader joins hunger strike 

On 19 February, the leader of the Ennahda party, Rached Ghannouchi, started a hunger strike to mark the one year of his detention. He was given a three-year imprisonment for backing a coup against President Kaïs Saïed. In April 2023, Saied closed the headquarters of the Ennahda party and reduced the independence of the court, citing the need to preserve peace. ("Jailed Tunisian opposition leader starts hunger strike," BBC, 19 February 2024) 

South Africa: Elections on May 29 and ANC's challenges ahead

On 19 February, President Cyril Ramaphosa's office disclosed that the national and provincial elections would be scheduled for 29 May. The day coincides with the country's 30 years of independence. Since 1994, South Africa has been led by the African National Congress (ANC). However, this time, the party is expected to face tough challenges and may get less than a 50 per cent majority. The struggle for the party comes amidst record power cuts, poor service delivery and high levels of unemployment. Further, the suspension of former President Jacob Zuma, who currently backs the Spear of the Nation party, would divide the votes. ("South Africa to hold general election on May 29," Al Jazeera, 19 February 2024) 

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

The AU swifts action to tackle instability across Africa

On 18 February, BBC reported on the African Union Commission's collective measures to address issues across Africa. The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat made the call during the two-day AU Summit. The bloc's top agenda is the conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mahamat raised concerns about the "litany of difficulties" in the region. He added that the situation in Sudan was "bruised, torn, sinking into chaos" due to the war that has been raging since 2023. He voiced concern for the conflict between Israel and Hamas, Libya being divided and exposed to foreign interference, the rise in jihadist insurgencies in the Sahel region, and Senegal's political crisis due to a delayed election. He added: "Africa cannot remain arms folded and not work to promote genuine peace in the region.” (“AU Commission chief urges action on Africa instability,” BBC, 18 February 2024) 

Senegal: Protests demanding immediate election

On 18 February, BBC reported on the opposition's demand for immediate elections. Several opposition demonstrators gathered in the capital Dakar, demanding the presidential election to be held at the earliest. Following President Macky Sall's announcement of delayed elections, the country witnessed several riots and protests. The election was scheduled for 25 February, however, on 3 February Sall postponed it to December citing disputes over the eligibility of the candidates. Meanwhile, the Constitutional Council annulled the delay describing it “unconstitutional.” (“Senegal election: Opposition supporters march in Dakar calling for swift vote Published,” BBC, 18 February 2024) 

Democratic Republic of Congo: US condemns M23 rebel attack

On 18 February, the US condemned the drone attack in Congo carried out by the M23 rebel group which is allegedly backed by Rwanda. The development came after the group advanced toward Goma, the capital of North Kivu. The conflict has forced thousands to be displaced. US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller stated: “This escalation has increased the risk to millions of people already exposed to human rights abuses including displacement, deprivation, and attacks.” The DRC, the UN and Western countries accuse Rwanda of backing the Tutsi-led M23 group in a bid to control mineral resources, which was denied by the country. (“US ‘strongly condemns’ violence in DR Congo after alleged drone attack,” Al Jazeera, 18 February 2024) 

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Democratic Republic of Congo: UN report alleges Rwanda of using advanced military

On 17 February, a UN report alleged the Rwandan military using advanced weapons, including surface-to-air missiles, to support the M23 rebel group in the eastern DRC. The report claimed that a Rwandan missile was fired at a UN drone. This incident has heightened tensions in the region with the UN Security Council expressing concern and condemning the M23 offensive. Fighting between the rebels and government forces reportedly resulted in dozens of casualties. ("DR Congo accuses Rwanda of airport ‘drone attack’ in restive east," Al Jazeera, 17 February 2024) 

Somalia: President accuses Ethiopia of trying to annex its port

On 17 February, Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud accused Ethiopia of attempting to annex its port through a deal with Somaliland. He stated that the port deal “is nothing more than annexing part of Somalia to Ethiopia, and changing the borders of Somalia,” and Somalia "categorically objects to that.” Tensions increased between Somalia and Ethiopia following the deal with Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia. Somalia opposed the deal and described it as a violation of its sovereignty. While Ethiopia denied ill intentions, the dispute remains unresolved and raises concerns about regional stability. ("Somalia president accuses Ethiopia of trying to annex part of its territory," Al Jazeera, 17 February 2024) 

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

South African soldiers killed in DR Congo

On 15 February, BBC reported that the South African troops that were deployed in DRC to quell the rebellion were attacked, leading to two fatalities and three others injured. The troops were sent as part of the Southern African Development Community (SDAC) to assist the Congolese army’s fight against insurgency in eastern DRC. South Africa's opposition has called for an immediate withdrawal from the country. The development came after the M23 rebels captured Goma, the capital of North Kivu. (“South African troops killed in DR Congo: What is behind the Sadc deployment?,” BBC, 15 February 2024) 

Senegal: Constitutional Council annuls the election delay

On 15 February, the BBC reported that the Constitutional Council ordered the delayed election proposed by President Macky Sall as “unlawful.” The council cancelled the election postponement and the contentious bill passed by parliament scheduling the election for December, calling it unconstitutional. The opposition described the ruling as "a great day for democracy.” Former Prime Minister, Aminata Touré, stated: "We've been so ashamed by all this violation of the law and the constitution.” On 3 February, President Macky Sall announced the election delay citing issues over the eligibility of the candidates. At least three people were killed during the riots that followed. (“Senegal election: Court blocks President Macky Sall's bid to delay poll,” BBC, 15 February 2024) 

South Africa: Foreign minister slams Israel at the AU Summit

On 15 February, the BBC reported on the South African response to the Israeli allegations that it is representing the interests of Hamas. After South Africa filed a case against Israel for genocide at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the two countries are in a row. Israel called the South African government the representatives of the interests of the Hamas. South Africa's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Naledi Pandor, replied: "Insults are the last resort of a scoundrel.” At the African Union Summit, Pandor commented that the international community is responsible for ending the Israel-Hamas conflict. (“We are not representing Hamas - SA foreign minister,” BBC, 15 February 2024) 

Cameroon: HRW questions the injustice of the Ngarbuh village massacre

On 15 February, Human Rights Watch (HRW) asserted that the prolonged justice by the Cameron's military court is an injustice to the 21 killings in Ngarbuh village in 2022. HRW director for Central Africa, Lewis Mudge stated: “Hearings have been postponed multiple times,... the court has refused to admit key evidence." The village of Ngarbuh was attacked by soldiers and armed personnel on the suspicion of the presence of separatists. The government refused to hold responsibility. ("Trial for Cameroon killings marred by irregularities - HRW," BBC, 15 February 2024) 

Africa: Russia's neocolonialism meet 

On 15 February, BBC quoted Russia's Sputnik and United Russia Party that South Africa and the Central African Republic took part in a neocolonialism forum organised by Russia. It was themed "Forum of Supporters of The Struggles Against Modern Practices Of Neo-colonialism – For The Freedom Of Nations." South Africa's ruling ANC party's Secretary General Fikile Mbalula and CAR President Faustin-Archange Touadera attended the event. In addition, North Korea's ruling party delegates and other representatives from the global south who consider Russia a colonialist fighter attended the forum. ("SA, CAR teams attend neo-colonialism event in Russia," BBC, 15 February 2024) 

Egypt: Reconciliation efforts with Turkey

On 15 February, BBC reported that Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah al-Sisi disclosed their intentions of turning "a new leaf" in their relationship following the decade-long estrangement. Turkey-Egypt relations fell apart after the ousting of Islamist President Mohamed Morsi who was backed by Turkey in 2013. The development came after both parties met in the Egyptian capital Cairo. During the meeting, both sides agreed to several bilateral agreements. ("Egypt renews ties with Turkey as Erdogan visits Cairo," BBC, 15 February 2024) 

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S, Anu Maria Joseph and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Kenya: 'Dark Valentine' to end femicides 

On 14 February, Valentine's Day was marked as a 'Dark Valentine' in Kenya. Hundreds of people gathered in black outfits with candles and red roses to spend their Valentine's Day demanding action from the government to prevent gender-based violence and femicide. Seven vigil gatherings were held across Kenya to honour more than 30 women who have been killed in 2024. This was organised by the End Femicide Kenya Movement, a collective of more than 1,000 organisations and individuals. (“In Kenya, women hold ‘Dark Valentine’ vigils to press for end to femicides,” Al Jazeera, 14 February 2024) 

37th annual African Union Summit to begin on 15 February

On 14 February, Al Jazeera reported on the beginning of the 37th annual African Union Summit on 15 February at Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. According to AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat, regional integration and “maintaining momentum in addressing issues of peace and security” is on the agenda. However, the conflicts and humanitarian crisis in Ethiopia’s Tigray, Oromo and Amhara regions complemented the tension with Somalia over the port deal with Somaliland is perceived as ironic. In January, Mahamat addressed a presummit session of the AU’s Permanent Representative’s Committee. He stressed the importance of continent-wide solidarity citing conflicts in Sudan and Chad. However, Ethiopia was not mentioned. (“Addis summit raises questions about AU’s muted stance on Ethiopia rifts,” Al Jazeera, 14 February 2024)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Nigeria: Economic recession and increasing cost of living

On 13 February, BBC reported on the economic recession and increased cost of living in Nigeria. The cost of rice has increased 70 per cent from that of 2023 and people are forced to rely on the Afafata rice. Afafata rice is normally discarded as not saleable at the end of the sorting and is sold to farmers to feed the fish. Besides, the cancellation of fuel subsidies and devaluation of the Naira has worsened inflation. Protests broke out across the country demanding to reduce the cost of goods. (“Nigeria cost of living: People turn to 'throw-away' rice for food,” BBC, 13 February 2024) 

Senegal: New internet restrictions

On 13 February, the Ministry of Communication issued new internet restrictions to prevent the spread of hateful messages against the government. The decision came following the violent protest against President Macky Sall who announced the delayed elections on 3 February. Sall cited a dispute in the eligibility of the candidates for the election postponement. The election was scheduled for 25 February and is currently postponed to December 2024. (“Senegal restricts internet access,” BBC, 13 February 2024)

South Africa: Deploys troops to assist DRC

On 13 February, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered the deployment of 2,900 soldiers as part of the Southern African mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC) to assist conflict-torn DRC. The deployment accounts for ZAR two billion and is said to last until December. SAMIDRC was initiated in May 2023 after DRC left the East African bloc citing its ineffectiveness. In addition to South Africa, Malawi and Tanzania are extending their support. ("South Africa to deploy 2,900 soldiers to DR Congo," BBC, 13 February 2024)

Democratic Republic of Congo: Clashes between police and the protesters

On 13 February, BBC reported on the police using tear gas to disperse anti-West protesters in the capital Kinshasa. Pepin Mbindu, one of the protesters stated: "The Westerners are behind the looting of our country. Rwanda doesn't work alone, so they must leave our country." They burned the flags of the US and Belgium. The US asked the protesters to keep "a low profile" and the UK cautioned that the protest is "likely to continue throughout the week" and asserted on the risk of foreigners being "indiscriminately targeted." The fear persists as the M23 rebel group advances towards Goma in the eastern DRC; however, the group has denied the intention of attacking Goma. According to the UN, the intensifying conflict in the region has displaced more than seven million people. Meanwhile, the government of Congo has assured of controlling the status quo. ("DR Congo protests: Police fire tear gas to disperse anti-Western demonstrations in Kinshasa,” BBC, 13 February 2024)

South Africa: Requests ICJ to reconsider emergency measures

On 13 February, Al Jazeera reported that South Africa has urged the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to consider additional emergency measures to protect Palestinians in Gaza, particularly in Rafah, where Israel plans to expand its offensive. They argued that Israel's actions violated the ICJ's previous ruling and the Genocide Convention. With thousands already killed and displaced, South Africa seeks stronger measures to prevent further harm. ("South Africa urges ICJ to consider action on Israel’s planned Rafah assault," Al Jazeera, 13 February 2024) 

Ethiopia: EHRC claims 45 killed by security forces

On 13 February, the state-affiliated Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) alleged that the Ethiopian government's security forces killed 45 civilians in a massacre in January. The commission confirmed “the identity of at least 45 civilians who were extrajudicially killed by government security forces for allegedly ‘supporting [ethnic Amhara armed group] Fano’.” The US raised concerns over the “targeted civilian killings” in Merawi, Amhara. According to the EHRC, the clashes in the Amhara region were plagued by extrajudicial and mass killings, mainly carried out by security forces. The clashes between the Fano militia and the Tigrayan militia shredded when Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed decided to merge the paramilitary forces. The violence in Amhara has become a major crisis since the peace agreement signed in Tigray in 2022. ("Ethiopian forces killed ‘at least 45 citizens’ in Amhara, rights body says," Al Jazeera, 13 February 2024)

IN BRIEF

Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Democratic Republic of Congo: Clashed between the police and the protesters

On 12 February, BBC reported on the clashes between the police and the protestors in the capital Kinshasa. The police fired tear gas at the protestors gathered near foreign embassies in Kinshasa. The crowd was involved in burning the tyres and the national flags of the US and Belgium, accusing the Western countries of backing Rwanda. The development came after the M23, a Tutsi-led rebel group allegedly supported by Rwanda, started advancing towards the capital of the North Kivu state, Goma. (“DR Congo protests: Police fire tear gas to disperse anti-Western demonstrations in Kinshasa,” BBC, 12 February 2024) 

Tunisia: Migrant boat missing in the Mediterranean

On 12 February, BBC reported that Tunisian migrants went missing while attempting to reach Italy from the city of Bizerte in Tunisia. Tunisia’s National Guard stated that at least 17 Tunisian migrants went missing. Coastguards and Navy-backed helicopters are continuing the rescue operation. (“Tunisians missing at sea after attempting to reach Italy,” BBC, 12 February 2024) 

Senegal: Delayed election out of “moral obligation,” says Sall’s spokesperson

On 12 February, the Ministry of Business and Trade spokesperson, Abdou Karim Fofana, stated that the election delay is a necessary move and a "moral obligation to stay and solve this problem" because according to the constitution, President Macky Sall is the guarantor of the functioning of the institutions. Three people have died in violent riots after Sall announced the delayed elections. (“Senegal leader delayed election out of 'moral obligation' - spokesman,” BBC, 12 February 2024) 

Morocco: Demonstrators demand to end ties with Israel

On 12 February, BBC reported that thousands of Moroccans protested in the capital Rabat against the country's ties with Israel, angered over the war in Gaza. The protesters waved signs condemning the violence and called for an end to the Israel-Morocco relations. In 2020, the US brokered into establishing diplomatic ties between Morocco and Israel in exchange for the US recognition of Moroccan claims in Western Sahara. ("Thousands protest in Morocco against ties with Israel," BBC, 12 February 2024) 

Liberia: Appointment of the first female defence minister

On 12 February, Liberian President Joseph Boakai gave retired Brigadier General Geraldine George the position of acting Minister of Defence. Geraldine George is the first female defence minister in the country. She enrolled in the army in 2006 and then joined the elite forces. She served six years as deputy chief of staff. The development came after the protest carried out by soldiers' wives demanding the resignation of the former Minister of Defence Prince Charles Johnson III for low wages in the military barracks. ("First woman appointed as Liberia's defence minister," BBC, 12 February 2024) 

Senegal: ECOWAS chair meets President Sall

On 12 February, ECOWAS chair and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu met Senegal’s President Macky Sall at the Senegalese capital Dakar in the wake of the postponement of the Presidential election. The development came after the bloc held emergency-level talks the previous week, discussing the political crisis in Senegal and the withdrawal of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso from the bloc. ("ECOWAS chair Tinubu to meet Senegal’s Sall over postponed elections," Al Jazeera, 12 February 2024)

IN BRIEF

By Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Democratic Republic of Congo: M23 advances in Goma

On 10 February, BBC reported on the M23 advancing towards Goma, the capital of the North Kivu state. The logistics and supplies have ceased, making people suffer without necessities. Nearly seven million people are forced to leave their homes. The M23 insurgency, led by the Tutsi community, began in 2012 to protect their community in the eastern DRC. The group is accused of being backed by the Rwandan government. Recently, re-elected Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi stated that “Congolese need to learn to trust us, Goma will never fall.” Goma stands as an important economic hub. Congolese Minister of Communications, Patrick Muyaya, told the BBC: “We all know that the reason for this war is economic. Rwanda is continuing... for the past 25 years… looting our mineral resources.” (“DR Congo violence: Panic in Goma as M23 rebels advance,” BBC, 10 February 2024) 

Senegal: A student died in protest

On 10 February, the Ministry of Interior and Public Security stated that a student was killed in the city of Saint-Louis during the protests. The country has been clenched with clashes between the security forces and protesters over election postponement. The postponement came less than three weeks before the elections scheduled for 25 February. ("Student killed in Senegal protests over election delay, Al Jazeera, 10 February 2024) 

Somalia: Al Shabab holds accountable for the UAE military base attack

On 10 February, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced that Al Shabab, an Al Qaeda-backed armed group, is accountable for the attack on its military base in Somalia. Al Shabab stated that the attack was to showcase that the UAE is an "enemy" of the Islamic law for backing Somalia. The attack on 10 February killed five people including four Emirati troops and a Bahraini military officer. ("Al-Shabab claims attack on UAE military in Somalia," Al Jazeera, 10 February 2024)

IN BRIEF

By Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran

Sudan: Conflict-led displacement on the rise

On 9 February, humanitarian agencies cautioned that the continuing conflict in the Abyei region,  a border area shared between Sudan and South Sudan, for two weeks has left thousands displaced. The clashes are between two rival factions, the Twic and Ngok, of the Dinka ethnic group belonging to the Wrrap state. According to BBC, nearly 100 people including UN peacekeepers have lost their lives in the violence. Troika, a coalition of the UK, the US and Norway forces, insisted on the South Sudanese government to hold responsibility for the attacks. Nearly 2,200 people, mostly women and Children, are residing in one of the UN camps, located in Rumajak, which is seven kilometres north of Abyei. ("Thousands forced out by fighting in disputed Abyei region," BBC, 10 February 2024) 

Ethiopia: Oxfam warns of the hunger plight

On 9 February, Oxfam cautioned that one in three Ethiopians are undergoing hunger. Previously, the federal government had reported that nearly 400 people had lost their lives due to hunger, which was denied by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. Conflicts and drought are the central factors for the ongoing Famine situation in Ethiopia’s Tigray, Amhara and Oromia regions. Oxfam warned that the country would have faced the worst if no aid was provided. The pause in aid from the World Food Programme (WFP) and the US Aid Last Spring, due to looting allegations, worsened the situation. ("Almost 10 million Ethiopians face extreme hunger - Oxfam," BBC, 10 February 2024) 

Malawi: Tourism efforts with new visa regulations

On 9 February, BBC reported that Malawi has lifted visa requirements for visitors from 79 countries to encourage tourism and trade in the country. On 7 February, Minister of Homeland Security, Ken Zikhałe, announced the immigration rules to remove visa requirements for people from the UK, China, Russia, Germany, Australia, Canada, Belgium, Ghana, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, France, and several other countries. Nationals of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) are similarly exempted from visa requirements. This excludes countries that demand Malawian citizens to have visas. This change also excludes diplomats and government officials with multiple entry visas with Malawi. According to the new visa regulations, multiple entry visas in Malawi are valid for up to 12 months. The British embassy in Malawi urged its people to use this opportunity to visit popular tourist attractions in the southern African country. Malawi joins Kenya and Rwanda in welcoming African visitors. (“Malawi lifts visa restrictions for 79 countries,” BBC, 9 February, 2024)

South Africa: Israel denies the allegations of  South African minister

On 9 February, Israel responded to the statement by the South African Minister. The relationship between Israel and South Africa has been tense after the latter filed a case against the former for the genocidal acts in Gaza at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). South Africa's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Naledi Pandor, stated that she was targeted by Israel and sought police protection as she kept receiving threatening messages. Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded: "These are baseless and false accusations, yet another blood libel by the South African foreign minister, who serves as the legal arm of the Hamas terrorist organisation.” (“Israel denies threatening South African minister,” BBC, 9 February 2024) 

Uganda: Rescue of its citizens from Myanmar

On 9 February, BBC reported that the Ugandan government is working with Myanmar's government to rescue migrants. Among the migrants, 30 are Ugandan citizens. Meanwhile, the opposition party claims that more than 450 Ugandans reside in Myanmar. The Africans went to other countries including Malaysia and Thailand, in search of employment, were scammed to Myanmar and are under the control of rebels. Uganda's Minister of Foreign Affairs, John Mulimba, stated that the government has appealed to the UN's International Organization for Migration (IOM) for rescue operations. (“Uganda seeks help to free kidnapped citizens in Myanmar,” BBC, 9 February 2024)

Senegal: Tear gas fired to disintegrate gatherings

On 9 February, BBC reported the situation in Senegal as people protested against the postponement of elections by Mack Sall’s government. The opposition politicians accused President Macky Sall of being an autocrat. After Sall announced the postponement of the elections, protests and riots erupted in the capital Dakar and other cities. Police fired tear gas and lobbed stun grenades at the protesters. Sall claims that a dispute in the eligibility of candidates is behind the delay. (“Senegal police tear-gas gathering protesters, Macky Sall 'like a 90-year-old autocrat' - former PM,” BBC, 9 February 2024)