Burkina Faso

RC Lens goalkeeper Hervé Koffi is set to be loaned to Belgian club Union Saint-Gilloise for the 2026 season, marking his fourth stint in Belgium. The 29-year-old Burkinabe international, who was blocked at Lens after returning from a successful loan at Angers, is expected in Brussels on Thursday. Union Saint-Gilloise is seeking a replacement for their number one goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen, who recently left for Ipswich Town. Koffi, who appeared in a friendly against Crystal Palace on Tuesday, could be available for Union's Champions League third preliminary round matches against Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt on August 4 and 11. The loan is for one season.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 29, 09:22 PM UTC

Chad announced on July 27, 2026, its intention to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), accusing the tribunal of ineffectiveness and bias against African nations. The West African country submitted a letter to the United Nations to begin the withdrawal process, which takes at least a year. Chad becomes the fourth African country since 2025 to initiate withdrawal, following Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, which announced their exits last year. The ICC is already facing significant challenges, including the removal of its chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, over sexual misconduct allegations. The United States, under a campaign to dismantle the ICC's perceived threat to its sovereignty, welcomed Chad's decision. The U.S. Bureau of African Affairs called on more of the 125 member states to withdraw from the Rome Statute, citing sovereignty concerns.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 11:17 AM UTC

Ivory Coast, coached by Reynald Pedros, made a successful debut at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Casablanca, easily defeating Burkina Faso 4-1. The Elephants scored three goals in the first 23 minutes, including a brace from Strasbourg striker Inès Konan (14th, 23rd) and a penalty from Rebbeca Elloh (6th). Nsira Ouedraogo added a superb direct free kick in the second half (56th) against a Burkina Faso side reduced to 10 men after their goalkeeper was sent off. In the same group, Tanzania surprised defending champions South Africa 2-1, winning their first-ever match at the AFCON thanks to a late solo goal from Hasnath Ubamba (87th). South Africa, winners in 2022 and semi-finalists in 2024, fired 24 shots but suffered an unfortunate defeat. Ivory Coast now tops Group B.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 10:36 PM UTC

Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, the three countries forming the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), have announced their joint bid to co-host the 2032 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The football federation heads of the three nations participated in a working session with CAF President Patrice Motsepe in New York on July 22, 2026, as part of the bidding process launched by CAF. The Malian Football Federation stated this is a decisive step allowing them to proceed with CAF regulations for the tournament award. Motsepe welcomed the regional cooperation initiative but emphasized that security issues must be addressed, given the severe jihadist insurgencies in the Sahel region. Burkina Faso hosted AFCON in 1998, Mali in 2002, while Niger has never organized the competition. The three countries are led by military juntas pursuing sovereignist policies and face deadly attacks from Al-Qaeda and Islamic State affiliates.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 05:42 AM UTC

The football federations of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have formally expressed their intention to jointly host the 2032 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Officials from the three countries met with CAF President Patrice Motsepe in the United States to present a joint declaration of interest. The Malian and Nigerien federations issued statements confirming the bid, while Burkina Faso has not yet commented. The three nations are members of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a defense pact formed by military juntas after recent coups. Mali hosted AFCON in 2002, Burkina Faso in 1998, while Niger has never hosted. The 2027 AFCON will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. The tournament will shift from a biennial to a quadrennial schedule starting in 2028.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 05:14 PM UTC

Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, three Sahel nations led by military governments and members of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), have submitted a joint bid to host the 2032 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon). The announcement follows CAF opening applications for the 2028, 2032, and 2036 editions. The Malian Football Federation stated the bid is based on solidarity, regional integration, and sustainable development. CAF President Patrice Motsepe said the three countries will not be disadvantaged due to their military juntas but emphasized that safety, security, democracy, and free movement of fans are non-negotiable. The security situation in the region remains unstable due to jihadist attacks, and the governments have shifted away from Western partners toward Russia. A preliminary meeting was held in New York ahead of the 2026 World Cup final. Burkina Faso (1998) and Mali (2002) have previously hosted Afcon individually.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 04:11 PM UTC

Patrice Motsepe, president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), expressed confidence that the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, will be a 'huge success' despite ongoing challenges. Speaking at a press conference in Johannesburg, Motsepe praised the work of the three host countries' heads of state but did not elaborate on specific difficulties. Concerns remain over the construction of the new 60,000-seat Talanta Sports Stadium in Nairobi and renovation of the Moi International Sports Centre, as CAF has not yet officially confirmed the venues. Qualifying matches begin in September and conclude in March, with 24 teams competing. This will be the last AFCON under the current format, as the tournament will shift to a four-year cycle starting with the 37th edition in 2028. Bids for 2028, 2032, and 2036 are open, with Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso jointly expressing interest in hosting the 2032 edition.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 01:20 PM UTC

The delayed 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) is set to begin on July 26 in Morocco, hosted for the third consecutive time. Originally scheduled for March-April, the tournament was postponed by CAF just 12 days before its start due to unforeseen circumstances. The expanded 16-team tournament features 34 matches across five stadiums in Rabat and Casablanca, culminating in the final on August 16. This edition doubles as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, with all four semi-finalists securing automatic spots. Defending champions Nigeria, record 10-time winners, are in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt, and debutants Malawi. Hosts Morocco face Algeria, Senegal, and Kenya in Group A. South Africa, the 2022 champions, lead Group B, while Ghana heads Group D. The article provides full group details, kick-off times, and venue information.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 10:30 AM UTC

The article reports on the opening of a daycare center designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Francis Kéré at the Technical University of Munich (TUM). The building, dubbed the 'Children's Oasis,' features a rusted Corten steel facade that some compare to a prison, but Kéré intends it to challenge children's creativity and imagination. It is Kéré's first permanent building in Europe, constructed primarily from regional wood to meet strict German standards. The design avoids a 'pedagogically cute' aesthetic, instead offering a sensual, hermetic space meant to free children from rigid rules. The article highlights Kéré's background, his design philosophy of sustainability and humanity, and the collaboration with timber construction expert Hermann Kaufmann.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 19, 10:38 AM UTC

This Op-Ed argues that rising geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, have exposed the fragility of global energy supply chains, necessitating stronger regional energy security in Africa. Inland African economies, heavily reliant on imported refined products through coastal terminals, face significant risks from price volatility and transport disruptions. The article highlights Zambia's efforts to modernize its energy infrastructure with new pipelines like TZMPP and NZPGP to complement the aging TAZAMA system. Similarly, Zimbabwe is diversifying its fuel imports through the Beira corridor and expanding storage capacity to reduce dependency on single routes. In West Africa, Burkina Faso’s integration with Ivory Coast’s refining ecosystem and Ghana’s bulk storage network demonstrate effective regional interdependence. Meanwhile, Namibia’s Walvis Bay is emerging as a critical storage hub for Southern Africa. The author contends that energy security is now a regional challenge requiring interconnected pipelines, shared storage systems, and cross-border cooperation. As the African Continental Free Trade Area deepens market integration, transitioning from fragmented national systems to unified fuel ecosystems is essential for economic stability and energy sovereignty.

1 reports · 1 sources

A report by Actu Cameroun, cited by TASS, argues that President Emmanuel Macron’s administration is experiencing a daily loss of influence across Africa. The recent Africa Forward summit in Nairobi is highlighted as a primary example of this declining standing. The article suggests that since Macron took office, relations with certain African leaders have become distant or severed, with Paris shifting its focus from historical and cultural ties to purely economic interests. During the summit, Macron pledged approximately $25 billion in investments over the next decade, though half of this amount is expected to come from African nations themselves. The report criticizes Macron for attacking leaders of the Alliance of Sahel States (Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso) while attempting to court English-speaking nations and bypass traditional government structures by engaging civil society. Furthermore, it notes that French trade with Africa is shrinking, with French businesses losing ground to Chinese competitors. Consequently, France’s market share in sub-Saharan Africa has plummeted from 15% in the 1970s to roughly 3% today, signaling a significant reduction in its geopolitical and economic presence on the continent.

1 reports · 1 sources

Timi Frank, former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of Nigeria's All Progressives Congress, has issued a stern warning to African leaders regarding recent diplomatic agreements with France. Reacting to the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, attended by French President Emmanuel Macron and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, Frank argued that these deals primarily serve French interests and elite African leaders rather than ordinary citizens. He criticized France for maintaining economic systems that foster dependency and poverty, citing Burkina Faso and Mali as examples of nations successfully reducing French influence. Frank urged Africans to reject such partnerships, describing them as threats to continental sovereignty. Instead, he advocated for strengthening ties with the United States and Israel, praising their commitment to trade, technology, and democratic governance. He specifically commended former U.S. President Donald Trump for supporting democratic norms. Frank called on African youth to actively engage leaders and oppose any agreements that mortgage national futures for selfish gains, emphasizing the need for partnerships that prioritize sustainable development, security, and prosperity for the general population.

1 reports · 1 sources

Following the expulsion of French influence from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, President Emmanuel Macron visited Nairobi to establish a new strategic foothold in Africa. The article critiques this move as imperial management rather than genuine economic cooperation, arguing that France aims to counter anti-imperialist movements in the Sahel. Kenyan President William Ruto is portrayed as a willing partner, aligning Kenya with Western military interests, including its recent designation as a major non-NATO ally of the US. Despite Macron's promises of billions in investment, the text highlights France's refusal to cancel colonial debts or withdraw troops. The visit sparked significant protests in Nairobi, where citizens resisted what they viewed as a celebration of neo-colonial partnership. Security forces responded with brute force, arresting and intimidating demonstrators to protect the diplomatic spectacle. The analysis frames Macron's mission as counter-revolutionary, seeking to isolate Sahelian states challenging Western domination while reinforcing dependency through military and financial arrangements.

1 reports · 1 sources

West Africa’s gold sector is projected to rebound by 8.0% in 2026 following a 2.4% decline in 2025, driven primarily by mine restarts and new project ramp-ups. Ghana, the region's largest producer, expects marginal growth supported by Newmont’s Ahafo North and Shandong Gold’s Namdini, despite policy tightening and mature asset declines. Mali is forecast to see a significant 28% production increase due to the resolution of disputes at Loulo-Gounkoto, although security risks persist. Guinea’s output will rise with the Kiniero Gold Mine ramp-up, while Burkina Faso anticipates a 7% boost from the Kiaka project. Emerging markets like Ivory Coast are gaining prominence, with Ivory Coast potentially becoming the third-largest producer. However, long-term challenges remain, including scheduled mine closures post-2030 in Guinea and Burkina Faso, security instability in Mali, and regulatory changes in Ghana aimed at increasing state value capture. The recovery is uneven, with specific operational improvements offsetting broader structural and geopolitical risks across the region.

1 reports · 1 sources

Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Dmitry Lyubinsky stated that Western weapons originally supplied to Ukraine have been diverted to terrorist groups in multiple countries. Speaking at a roundtable discussion titled 'The Threat of the Spread of Crime and Illegal Drugs from Ukrainian Territory,' Lyubinsky accused the Ukrainian government of supporting terrorist organizations, particularly those operating in the Sahara-Sahel region. He highlighted that illegal trafficking of arms and ammunition from Ukraine has resulted in these weapons falling into the hands of militants in Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mali, Niger, Sudan, Somalia, Syria, the Central African Republic, and Chad. The diplomat described this development as a troubling escalation linked to criminal activities by the Kiev regime. This announcement underscores Moscow's narrative regarding the destabilizing effects of Western military aid to Ukraine, suggesting it contributes to global insecurity beyond the immediate conflict zone. The remarks were reported by TASS, emphasizing the alleged connection between Ukrainian territory and the proliferation of illicit weapons and drugs internationally.

1 reports · 1 sources

French President Emmanuel Macron attempted to reset relations with Africa at the Africa Forward summit in Nairobi, Kenya, in May 2026. Aimed at moving beyond the controversial 'Francafrique' legacy, Macron announced over €23 billion in investments for renewable energy, AI, and infrastructure. However, the summit highlighted a severe credibility crisis for Paris, particularly among African youth who increasingly view France as a symbol of interference and unequal partnership. This sentiment is amplified by social media platforms like TikTok, where young Africans are actively dismantling French diplomatic narratives. The choice of Kenya, an anglophone nation, signaled France's attempt to expand influence after being expelled from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger following military coups and anti-French protests. Despite efforts to project a modern, respectful partnership, the deep-seated distrust stemming from post-colonial dynamics and recent geopolitical setbacks in the Sahel remains a significant obstacle. The article argues that traditional diplomatic gestures are insufficient to counter the growing hostility driven by digital activism and historical grievances.

1 reports · 1 sources

A new documentary produced by Bayer 04 Media House, titled 'Fierté Burkinabè' (Pride of Burkina Faso), chronicles the remarkable journey of defender Edmond Tapsoba from his hometown of Ouagadougou to Bayer Leverkusen. Released in tribute to his new long-term contract with the German club, the film explores the personal and professional milestones that shaped the 27-year-old international. It highlights the pivotal role of his family, particularly his mother’s encouragement against his father’s initial wishes for him to prioritize education. The narrative also details his early football development at Salitas FC, where coaches recognized his potential and guided him from attack to center-back. Beyond his athletic achievements, the documentary emphasizes Tapsoba’s humility and charitable efforts through the Foundation Edmond Tapsoba, which supports vulnerable groups in Burkina Faso. Through interviews with his agent, family, and early mentors, the production portrays Tapsoba as a symbol of honest values and hard work, celebrating his success as a source of national pride and a testament to the supportive community that nurtured his talent from childhood to the Bundesliga stage.

1 reports · 1 sources

Orezone Gold Corporation held its First Quarter 2026 earnings conference call on May 13, 2026, highlighting significant strategic developments and operational achievements. CEO Patrick Downey announced the transformative acquisition of the Casa Berardi gold mine and a portfolio of exploration assets in Quebec, Canada. This move positions Orezone as a diversified multi-asset producer in a Tier 1 jurisdiction, aiming to enhance scale, free cash flow, and exploration upside. Additionally, the company reported successful progress at its Bomboré mine in Burkina Faso, where it completed a 2.5 million tonne per annum Stage 1 hard rock expansion on time and within budget. Commercial production was achieved in January 2026, with initial output exceeding nameplate capacity by 10%. The call featured insights from CFO Peter Tam and addressed questions from analysts at Canaccord Genuity and National Bank Financial. These developments mark a busy start to the year for Orezone, emphasizing growth through both organic operational improvements and strategic M&A activity in stable mining regions.

1 reports · 1 sources

Orezone Gold announced its first-quarter 2026 financial and operational results, highlighting a transformative period marked by the acquisition of the Casa Berardi gold mine and exploration assets in Quebec. This strategic move positions the company as a diversified multi-asset producer in a Tier 1 jurisdiction. At its Bombori mine in Burkina Faso, Orezone completed a stage 1 hard rock expansion on time and budget, achieving commercial production in January 2026 with throughput already exceeding nameplate capacity by 10%. The company also initiated stage 2 expansion, scheduled for completion in Q3 2026. Additionally, Orezone was included in the VanEck Junior GDXJ ETF, enhancing liquidity. To support growth, the company strengthened its leadership team with three key appointments: Marc Andre Peltier as Chief Operating Officer, John Francois Ravinelli as VP of Exploration, and Amanda Mallog as VP of Investor Relations. These hires bring extensive experience from major mining firms like Bonterra, New Gold, and Andean. The quarter’s achievements are expected to drive future revenue and earnings improvements through increased scale, production, and free cash flow.

1 reports · 1 sources

Robert Bourgi, a prominent lawyer and long-time unofficial advisor on African affairs for the French Elysée Palace, has sparked controversy by revealing details of alleged illicit gifts given to former Foreign Minister Dominique de Villepin. In a recent television interview, Bourgi claimed he delivered two expensive Napoleon Bonaparte statuettes to Villepin in the early 2000s. One statue, valued at 75,000 euros, was reportedly funded by Blaise Compaoré, the former president of Burkina Faso, while the other, worth 50,000 euros, was paid for by an Italian businessman with interests in Africa. Villepin denied knowingly accepting gifts of suspicious origin and announced the return of the items to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as he prepares for the 2027 presidential election. Bourgi, known for his role in Françafrique networks, openly expressed his political hostility toward Villepin, stating his intention to block his rival's path to the presidency. This revelation highlights ongoing issues regarding corruption and informal influence networks in French-African relations, reigniting public debate over ethical conduct among high-ranking French officials.

1 reports · 1 sources

French President Emmanuel Macron attended the Africa-France summit in Nairobi, marking a strategic shift in Paris's approach to the continent. Facing declining influence and military expulsions in former French-speaking West African colonies like Mali and Niger, France is attempting to rebuild relationships through trade and investment rather than traditional aid. The summit, co-organized with Kenya, featured over thirty African heads of state and focused on geopolitics, security, and economic partnership. Macron announced a 23 billion euro investment package, emphasizing that France lacks the funds for conventional development aid. Kenyan President William Ruto reinforced this sentiment, stating that African nations seek investments that drive local industrialization and job creation, rather than remaining mere suppliers of raw materials. By choosing Kenya, an English-speaking nation without a French colonial past, Macron aims to compete with powers like China and the US while distancing France from its controversial colonial legacy. Despite some skepticism regarding French corporate motives, the event provided a platform for African entrepreneurs to network and discuss innovation, while politically bolstering President Ruto amidst domestic challenges.

1 reports · 1 sources

The 2026 Africa-France summit, held in Nairobi on May 11-12, marks a significant shift in diplomatic relations as the first such gathering in a non-former French colony. This event follows the deterioration of ties between France and several West African nations, including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. The summit reflects President Emmanuel Macron’s revised African doctrine, which emphasizes apologizing for colonial injustices, promoting neoliberal entrepreneurship, and forging alliances beyond traditional Francophone circles. Kenyan President William Ruto and Macron focused heavily on innovation and start-ups under the theme 'Africa Forward.' This strategic pivot aims to strengthen Paris's influence amidst geopolitical uncertainties, including the war in Ukraine and perceived unreliability from the United States under Donald Trump. By prioritizing business partnerships and youth entrepreneurship through initiatives like the Tony Elumelu Foundation collaboration, both leaders seek to redefine Africa-Europe relations. The summit underscores a deliberate move away from post-colonial frameworks toward economic cooperation, highlighting Kenya’s role as a key partner in this new diplomatic era.

1 reports · 1 sources

This report by International IDEA analyzes Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) in Côte d'Ivoire, situating it within the shifting political landscape of West Africa. Following military coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Niger, the rise of the Alliance of Sahel States has fueled narratives promoting radical pan-Africanism and military populism. Côte d'Ivoire is identified as a strategic target due to its regional economic weight and relative stability. The study highlights how external geopolitical rivalries have moved into the information sphere, exploiting internal vulnerabilities such as lingering distrust from past electoral crises (2000, 2010, 2020, 2025) and deep social polarization. Key findings indicate that foreign narratives are not imposed directly but hybridize with local frustrations, amplified by social media and weak media literacy. The report notes the presence of local ideological relays that converge with external discourses, further weakening political institutions. Additionally, the precarious and polarized traditional media landscape fails to counter these manipulations effectively, leaving the public exposed to hate speech and disinformation regarding nationality, justice, and identity issues.

1 reports · 1 sources

French President Emmanuel Macron is promoting a renewed relationship with Africa during the Africa Forward summit in Nairobi, Kenya. However, this diplomatic push reflects France's diminishing influence rather than strategic strength. Following significant setbacks in West Africa, where military juntas in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger expelled French troops amid rising anti-colonial sentiment, Paris is pivoting toward East Africa. Macron aims to replace the controversial Françafrique system with partnerships focused on investment and infrastructure. Despite these efforts, France faces stiff competition from established powers like China, India, and Turkey, which have already secured substantial economic footholds in the region. Critics argue that Macron’s reforms, such as adjustments to the CFA franc and art restitution, were too late or half-hearted. The summit highlights that France’s policy shift is driven by necessity as its former hegemony collapses. While France may remain a predictable partner compared to ruthless competitors, its special status on the continent has effectively ended, marking a definitive adjustment to new geopolitical realities.

1 reports · 1 sources

During the Africa Forward summit in Nairobi on May 12, 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the identity of dual nationals, asserting that they are simultaneously 100% French and 100% connected to their countries of origin. Speaking to media outlet Brut, Macron described this dual heritage as a treasure and a strategic opportunity for both individuals and the state, particularly given Africa's economic potential. He estimated there are over 15 million dual nationals. The President strongly criticized political extremes, rejecting the far-right demand that immigrants forget their origins to be fully French, while also denouncing communitarian retreats advocated by parts of the far-left. Macron emphasized that the Republic should not turn identities against each other. Additionally, he reflected on France's relations with African nations, expressing deep emotional attachment to the people of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger despite recent diplomatic ruptures with their governments. He expressed hope for future reconciliation and highlighted the importance of human-level connections in overcoming political disagreements, maintaining that his policy towards Africa has remained consistent throughout his presidency.

1 reports · 1 sources

Scientists are decoding the complex chemical mechanisms that make certain individuals more attractive to mosquitoes, debunking common myths about blood type or physical appearance. Research indicates that attraction is driven by a combination of sensory signals, primarily carbon dioxide exhalation, body heat, and specific skin odors produced by human microbiota. A recent study led by Rickard Ignell identified that compounds like 1-octen-3-ol, derived from sebum breakdown, significantly increase attractiveness, particularly in pregnant women. Additionally, consuming beer has been linked to higher mosquito attraction due to increased body temperature, CO2 output, and altered skin scent. While over 3,500 mosquito species exist, only a small fraction bite humans and transmit diseases such as malaria, dengue, and yellow fever. Understanding these biological triggers is crucial for developing better protection strategies against vector-borne illnesses. The findings emphasize that attraction is not constant but varies based on physiological states and environmental factors, highlighting the sophisticated sensory capabilities of female mosquitoes.

1 reports · 1 sources

Manchester United academy midfielder Amir Ibragimov has been selected for the Russian national team squad for upcoming friendly matches against Egypt, Burkina Faso, and Trinidad and Tobago. The 18-year-old prospect, who holds dual eligibility for England and Russia, recently returned to action after a five-month injury layoff due to a broken foot. He is currently expected to feature in Manchester United's FA Youth Cup final against rivals Manchester City. Although Russia remains banned from major international competitions following its invasion of Ukraine, the nation continues to schedule friendly fixtures. Reports indicate that the squad selection was initially confirmed via social media, with Manchester United sources stating they had not yet received official notification from the Russian Football Union. It remains unclear whether Ibragimov will accept the call-up, a decision that could impact his future international allegiance. Ibragimov is regarded as one of the most talented young players in United's youth system. His elder brother, Ibragim, is a notable professional mixed martial arts fighter. This development highlights the ongoing complexities regarding player eligibility and international sports participation amidst current geopolitical tensions.

1 reports · 1 sources

French President Emmanuel Macron and Kenyan President William Ruto co-hosted the historic "Africa Forward" summit in Nairobi, marking the first such event in an Anglophone nation. Aimed at resetting Franco-African relations amid waning influence in West Africa, the summit gathered over 30 heads of state to promote a "partnership of equals." Macron announced €23 billion in investments targeting energy, AI, and agriculture, while signing bilateral agreements on defense and infrastructure. The event signifies a strategic pivot from post-colonial frameworks toward economic cooperation and diversified alliances across the continent.

27 reports · 12 sources · Updated May 20, 09:28 AM UTC

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has strongly condemned Niger's military government for suspending nine major French media outlets, labeling the move as an abusive attempt to stifle press freedom. The junta, led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani and backed by Russia, accused organizations such as AFP, France 24, and RFI of endangering national unity and public order without providing specific evidence. This decision coincides with heightened instability in neighboring Mali, where Russian-backed forces are battling separatist and Islamist uprisings near Niger's border. RSF described the ban as part of a coordinated strategy within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to repress independent journalism. Since seizing power in 2023, Niger's regime has systematically expelled French security forces and commercial interests, aligning closely with Moscow. The suspension also follows similar actions by Burkina Faso against TV5 Monde, highlighting a regional trend of silencing Western media amidst growing security challenges in the Sahel, which accounted for over half of global terrorism-related deaths in 2024.

1 reports · 1 sources

An aide to former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has dismissed widespread speculation that his recent trip to Morocco was linked to political maneuvering or coalition talks ahead of the 2027 general elections. Phrank Shaibu, Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, issued a statement clarifying that the visit was strictly personal. Atiku traveled to Marrakech to chair the wedding ceremony of Cherina and Muna Okey Ezeibe. The event featured dignitaries from across Africa, including Lassina Zerbo, the former Prime Minister of Burkina Faso and father of the bride. Shaibu emphasized that the gathering celebrated family, friendship, and African unity, highlighting the longstanding bond between Atiku and the groom’s father, businessman Okey Ezeibe. This clarification comes amid heightened public interest in Atiku’s foreign engagements, as he remains a central figure in opposition politics following his 2023 presidential bid. The aide firmly stated that the occasion had no connection to political activities, aiming to quell rumors regarding potential strategic alliances within the opposition camp.

1 reports · 1 sources