Africa Now (15-31 July, 2024)

OVERVIEW

The African continent witnessed significant developments over the past two weeks. The continent faces numerous challenges, including poverty, political instability, health crises, etc. But a rich tapestry of natural resources especially in minerals has the potential to push the continent towards economic development. Some of the recent happenings in Africa have been hereby discussed.

Africa continued to experience political instability in some of its region. The leader of the Sudanese armed forces and president of the transitional government survived a drone attack, while the military-aligned Foreign Ministry accepted the US invitation for peace negotiations in Switzerland in August 2024. Kenya and Nigeria have been experiencing mass protests fueled by public distress against the finance bill passed by the government and removal of subsidies exacerbating the cost-of-living, respectively. Further, former South African President Jacob Zuma has been expelled from the ruling African National Congress (ANC). Whereas, Guinea presented a draft constitution proposing to reduce and setting the presidential term limits, also allowing current military leader Mamady Doumbouya to contest in the next presidential election.

On the front of social development fifth Ordinary Session of the Specialized Technical Committee on Social Development, Labour, and Employment (STC-SDLE-5) took place in Ethiopia. Grants, conventional credits and bailout packages by World Bank and IMF were issued to Ethiopia assisting in nation’s post-Tigray civil war. Apart from Ethiopia, World Bank collaborated with Germany to Strengthen Education and Skills Development for the youth of Sahel region. Further, European Union and African Union seek to strengthen their civil society collaborations, fostering regular exchanges addressing common challenges.

India too keeps up with its efforts towards Africa and seeks to enhance the cooperation towards the technological avenues as well, through hosting events like the Defence Sector Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Conclave. India made strides to work with Africa on mini-lateral levels as US, India, and Tanzania launched the Triangular Development Partnership (TriDEP) to promote renewable energy in Tanzania. Further, on diplomatic level India reopened the embassy in Libya after 5 years, thereby strengthening India-Libya relations irrespective of past security challenges and ongoing political divisions within Libya. Through these advances India aims to harness its corporation and collaboration with Africa.

AFRICA

Ministers and Experts from across Africa Meet to Discuss, Evaluate & Endorse Strategies to Boost Social Development, Labour, Fair & Ethical Employment

In Addis Ababa, over 300 African experts and government ministers convene for the Fifth Ordinary Session of the Specialized Technical Committee on Social Development, Labour, and Employment (STC-SDLE-5) from July 29 to August 2. Under the theme of “Social Agenda 2063: Promoting Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) Ecosystems,” the initiative aims to enhance social development and ethical employment. The committee is developing a 10-year framework to address gaps in social protection, labour migration, youth employment, and gender-based issues. It emphasizes the importance of the SSE in fostering collective benefits, social services, and empowerment for marginalized groups. The meeting seeks to translate strategies into actionable initiatives that yield tangible improvements in African societies. Further the progress on strategies adopted during the Fourth Session of the Specialized Technical Committee on Social Development, Labour and Employment (STC-SDLE-4), would be inspected. Click here to read… [2]

Failed assassination attempt on the head of the transitional government of Sudan

On July 31, General Abdel-Fattah Burhan, leader of the Sudanese armed forces and president of the transitional government, survived a drone attack at the Gebeit military base in eastern Sudan. The attack, which occurred after a military cadet graduation ceremony, resulted in five deaths. The Sudanese armed forces shot down two drones, and no group, has claimed responsibility yet. The drones were shot down in Gebeit military base the de facto capital of the army. This incident coincides with recent diplomatic developments, including the reopening of the Sudanese embassy in Tehran and ongoing conflict between the Sudanese armed forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since April 15, 2023. Furthermore, the attack comes just a day after the military-aligned Foreign Ministry accepted the US invitation for peace negotiations. Click here to read... [3]

Sudan sets conditions for U.S.-supported peace negotiations

On July 30, 2024, Sudan's foreign ministry outlined prerequisites for participating in U.S.-backed peace talks in Switzerland in August. The ministry stressed the need for prior consultations with the Sudanese government on the agenda and participants, and called for direct discussions between Sudan and the U.S. to prepare for the negotiations. The ministry also demanded the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) withdraw from cities and cease attacks on civilians before any peace talks. Additionally, Sudanese officials opposed the UAE's participation, citing alleged support for the RSF. The Geneva talks, co-hosted by Saudi Arabia and overseen by the UN, AU, UAE, and Egypt, aim to achieve a comprehensive ceasefire and establish a monitoring mechanism, building on previous negotiations in Jeddah. Click here to read... [4]

Guinea's new draft constitution will reduce, limit presidential term

Guinea's transitional authorities presented a draft of a new constitution on July 29, 2024, which proposes reducing and setting presidential term limits and potentially allowing current military leader Mamady Doumbouya to run in the next presidential election. The junta, which seized power in a 2021 coup, initially proposed a two-year transition to elections but has shown little progress towards organizing a vote. The draft constitution, subject to a future referendum, aims to restore constitutional rule in the resource-rich nation. It does not bar ruling junta members from participating in elections and excludes former President Alpha Conde due to an age limit. The new constitution proposes a five-year presidential term, renewable once. The election date is yet to be decided. Click here to read... [5]

South Africa’s ruling ANC expels ex-president Zuma for backing rival party

Former South African President Jacob Zuma has been expelled from the African National Congress (ANC) after supporting a rival party, the ‘uMkhonto we Sizwe’ (MK), in May’s parliamentary election. This support contributed to the ANC losing its majority for the first time since the end of apartheid. ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula stated that Zuma's actions violated the party's integrity and constitution. Zuma, suspended in January, became MK's leader and face, leading them to secure about 15 percent of the vote. The ANC won 40.18 percent, down from 57.50 percent in 2019, resulting in a coalition government. Zuma has 21 days to appeal his expulsion. Click here to read... [6]

Demonstrators in Nigeria gather days early for anti-government protests

Hundreds of protesters have gathered in Suleja, Nigeria, ahead of planned national demonstrations over economic hardship and record inflation. Protests, due to start nationwide on August 1, target President Bola Tinubu's policies, including the removal of a fuel subsidy that exacerbated the cost-of-living crisis. Despite Nigeria's oil and gas wealth, citizens face high commodity prices, power outages, and fuel shortages. Nigeria also leads in child malnutrition, affecting over 31.8 million children. Counter-protests occurred in Lagos. The government, wary of unrest, warns against demonstrations, citing threats to stability. In response, Tinubu raised the minimum wage and urged patience, while security forces increased their presence. Click here to read... [7]

Batons, tear gas, live fire - Kenyans face police brutality

The recent wave of deaths in Kenya, triggered by the police crackdown on nationwide protests, began with the shooting of 30-year-old Rex Masai. This incident has significantly diminished the already fragile trust in the police. On June 20, demonstrations against a finance bill escalated when police shifted from using water cannons and tear gas to live bullets, resulting in Masai's fatal injury. Four police officers are now facing prosecution for their roles in these killings. However, investigations by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority are hampered by police non-cooperation and intimidation. Click here to read... [8]

President Kagame wins fourth term in Rwanda

On Rwandan President Paul Kagame has been re-elected with 99.18 percent of the vote, raising concerns about the lack of democracy in Rwanda. Kagame, who has ruled for three decades, secured an even larger margin than his previous 98.79 percent victory. Democratic Green Party leader Frank Habineza and independent Philippe Mpayimana received only 0.5 percent and 0.32 percent of the vote, respectively. Rights activists criticize the election for limiting opposition participation, while supporters praise Kagame's leadership. Kagame's party, the Rwandan Patriotic Front, also strengthened its parliamentary dominance. Despite economic growth, nearly half of Rwanda's population lives in poverty. Click here to read... [9]

AFRICA AND WORLD

World Bank Backs Ethiopia's Reforms to Promote Sustainable and Inclusive Growth, Enhance Resilience, and Take Climate Action

The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors approved the Ethiopia First Sustainable and Inclusive Growth Development Policy Operation, on July 30, 2024. The operation comprises a $1 billion grant and $500 million concessional credit from the International Development Association (IDA). This initiative seeks to support Ethiopia's reforms to foster a more inclusive economy by enhancing financial stability, expanding trade options, and improving fiscal transparency. The operation aims to protect vulnerable households during economic changes, promote sustainable land and forest management, and increase access to renewable energy. With a broader portfolio in Ethiopia, the World Bank Group plans over $16.6 billion in undisbursed and future commitments to support Ethiopia's development aspirations. Click here to read... [10]

IMF approves ‘landmark’ Ethiopia bailout

The IMF approved a $3.4bn bailout for Ethiopia to support economic reforms over the next four years, addressing chronic foreign currency shortages and high inflation post-Tigray civil war. This deal, facilitated by floating the Ethiopian birr, will provide $1bn immediately for balance of payments and budget support. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva praised Ethiopia’s commitment to transformative reform. The program aims to stimulate private-sector growth, increase spending on health, education, and social safety nets, and support debt restructuring. The IMF expects this to attract additional external financing and foster a more vibrant, stable, and inclusive economy for Ethiopians. Click here to read... [11]

Strong bipartisan backing from the US for the re-authorisation of AGOA

At the 21st African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum, South Africa emphasized partnerships focused on industrialization, state-building, and job creation. Minister Parks Tau highlighted the economic ties between South Africa and the US, noting over 600 US businesses in South Africa and 1.3 million jobs created in sub-Saharan Africa. He called for AGOA's extension, improved rules of origin, and alignment with African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to enhance Africa's manufacturing and economic integration. The BRICS+ Trade Ministers Meeting addressed climate change, e-commerce, and SEZs, emphasizing coordinated multilateral actions and best practices. These forums reinforced South Africa's commitment to strategic, equitable global partnerships. Click here to read... [12]

CPIA Africa 2024: Structural Reforms for a Vibrant Private Sector

The CPIA Africa report, derived from the World Bank's annual Country Policy and Institutional Assessment (CIPA), reviews policy trends and institutional practices in Sub-Saharan Africa to promote sustainable growth and poverty reduction. The report focuses on countries eligible for financing from International Development Association (IDA) and, emphasizes the need for private sector growth due to constrained government spending. Key findings include progress in economic management and social policies, resilience reforms against economic shocks, and challenges from exchange rate pressures and rising debt service obligations. It highlights digital technology and increased intraregional trade as promising trends for enhancing competition, attracting FDI, and fostering economic diversification. Click here to read... [13]

Joint Statement by Germany and the World Bank on Strengthening Education and Skills Development in the Sahel

German Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, Svenja Schulze, and World Bank Vice President for Western and Central Africa, Ousmane Diagana, have launched a joint initiative aimed at enhancing education and skills development for the youth of Sahel region. The region is one of the world’s most youthful regions with more than 58 million people below the age of 25 years. Sahel region is experiencing a significant learning crisis exacerbated by conflict and limited resources. With nearly 40% of primary school-age children out of school and 90% lacking basic literacy skills. The initiative focuses on three priorities: creating flexible education pathways for marginalized youth; training STEM professionals; and strengthening regional education systems. The World Bank’s significant investment of $1.6 billion in education initiatives supports this effort, alongside Germany’s contributions to various educational funds. The collaboration aims to improve educational outcomes and empower Sahelian youth to contribute meaningfully to the economy. Click here to read... [14]

EESC steps up relations with civil society across the African Union, reinforcing EU’s strategic partnership with the African Union

In March 2023, the African Union Economic Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) and European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) began discussing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation. By July, 2023 they organized the 8th EU-Africa Economic and Social Stakeholders' Network meeting in Brussels, emphasizing civil society's role in sustainable development. On July 17, 2024, EESC President Oliver Röpke and ECOSOCC Presiding Officer Khalid Boudali signed the MoU, strengthening EU-AU civil society collaboration. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of ECOSOCC, Röpke led an EESC delegation to Ghana, reaffirming the commitment to democracy and inclusive dialogue. The MoU aims to foster regular meetings, information exchange, and joint contributions to EU-AU events, addressing common challenges and enhancing stakeholder involvement. Click here to read... [15]

AFRICA AND INDIA

DoT co-hosts Defence Sector ICT Conclave

The Telecom Equipment and Services Export Promotion Council (TEPC) hosted the Defence Sector Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Conclave in New Delhi on July 29, 2024, featuring 18 companies. Key speakers highlighted India's leadership in ICT exports, cooperation with Africa in technology transfer, and ICT's role in defense and digital transformation. The event emphasized India's USD 18.2 billion ICT exports and significant investments in Africa, fostering mutual growth and strategic partnerships. Click here to read... [16]

India’s Ostwal Group eyes $300m fertilizer plant in Egypt: El-KhatibM

India’s Ostwal Group of Industries is exploring a $300 million investment to build a fertilizer plant in Egypt, with an annual production capacity of 700,000 tons. This was discussed during a meeting between Egypt's Investment Minister Hassan El-Khatib and Ostwal Group's delegation, led by Chairperson Praveen Ostwal. The plant aims to serve markets in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and India. El-Khatib highlighted Egypt’s investment potential, including raw materials, skilled labor, and strategic location. Ostwal expressed enthusiasm for expanding in Egypt, while El-Khatib reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting foreign investments and improving the investment climate. Click here to read... [17]

India reopens embassy in Libya after 5 years

India has reopened its embassy in Libya after more than five years of closure due to security concerns. With around 3,000 Indian nationals in Libya, the reopening, announced by Libya’s National Unity Government, will facilitate visa issuance and monitor employment conditions for Indian expatriates. India’s new chargé d’affaires, Mohammed Aleem, attended the event. The move underscores a commitment to strengthening India-Libya relations despite past security challenges and ongoing political divisions within Libya. Click here to read... [18]

EAM Jaishankar inaugurates India’s first overseas Jan Aushadhi Kendra in Mauritius

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated India’s first overseas Jan Aushadi Kendra in Mauritius, on July 17, 2024. The Indian EAM was accompanied by Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth. The Jan Aushadi Kendra aims to provide affordable, Made-in-India medicines to enhance public healthcare in Mauritius, fulfilling a promise by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During his two-day visit, Jaishankar also inaugurated the Mediclinic project in Grand Bois village, funded by Indian assistance, to serve approximately 16,000 locals with secondary healthcare. He emphasized India's commitment to people-centric policies and the importance of healthcare access for all, noting that small projects can significantly impact communities. Click here to read... [19]

TriDEP: U.S., India, and Tanzania Partner to Promote Renewable Energy Development in Tanzania

On July 17, 2024 US, India, and Tanzania launched the Triangular Development Partnership (TriDEP) to promote renewable energy in Tanzania. The Asia Foundation will implement the project, focusing on reliable grid systems and supportive policies. TriDEP aims to enhance development cooperation in disaster risk reduction, climate-smart agriculture, and renewable energy. The launch event, attended by over 60 representatives from various sectors, emphasized the partnership's potential to build capacity and create business opportunities. The first phase includes workshops and capacity development sessions in India, leveraging India’s expertise in solar and wind power. Click here to read... [20]

India continues Africa outreach, discusses defence manufacturing cooperation with DR Congo

India and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) held a high-level meeting in New Delhi to discuss co-production and co-development of weapon systems, highlighting India’s growing engagement with Africa. The meeting aimed to explore defense cooperation, with the DRC expressing interest in modernizing its armed forces and confidence in India's defense industry. The discussions also covered training and collaboration in the defense sector. This meeting follows recent bilateral consultations and reflects the strengthening of India-DRC relations, which include expanding trade and cooperation in various sectors. Click here to read... [21]