Africa Now (1-15 October, 2024)

OVERVIEW

As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the African continent is increasingly recognized for its strategic importance in global affairs. In recent past, significant developments have unfolded in Africa. This edition of Africa Now news digest aims to delve into the major events and developments taking place in the continent. The tensions escalate in Sudan, as Sudan's Rapid Support Forces accuse Egypt of airstrikes, complicating the conflict. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan, marked by widespread violence and potential death tolls exceeding 150,000, highlights a troubling global indifference to African conflicts. Concurrently, Comoros President Azali Assoumani is pushing for elections amidst accusations of electoral manipulation. Further, in a move to strengthen regional alliances, Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia have initiated strategic cooperation amidst rising tensions. On the front of energy supply, Nigeria's National Petroleum Corporation has signed a significant gas supply deal to support a methanol plant, aiming to diversify its economy.

On the geopolitical front major global regions and nations, have aimed to strengthen their engagement with Africa. European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen's visit Ethiopia and the African Union, to enhance multilateral cooperation and sustainable development, reflecting the EU's commitment to Africa. Concurrently, Italy plans to revitalize its space center in Kenya to launch Earth observation satellites, aligning with its Mattei Plan to strengthen ties with African nations. In economic news, Moody’s upgraded Ghana's credit rating following successful debt restructuring, while Ivory Coast seeks to expand its cocoa processing capacity through a partnership with Malaysia's Guan Chong Berhad. Additionally, the IMF's Kristalina Georgieva advocated for increased African representation in global financial institutions amid rising debt challenges. The China-Africa Joint Research Center for Exchanges and Mutual Learning between Civilizations was inaugurated in Harare, Zimbabwe, to foster collaboration between Chinese and African academics.

India further strengthened its engagement with the African nations. As Indian President Draupadi Murmu embarked on the three three-nation tour of Africa, visiting Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi on October 13. Wits Business School is set to host the Matla-Urja energy conference on November 28, 2024, to address energy challenges and investment opportunities between South Africa and India. Additionally, the Indian Navy's INS Talwar is participating in the IBSAMAR VIII exercise in South Africa. Meanwhile, Tata enterprise secured a contract for 150 WhAP vehicles for Morocco, strengthening defense ties, and the Adani Group is negotiating a $900 million partnership to improve Tanzania's electricity infrastructure.

AFRICA

The Sudan crisis is turning into a tragic oversight in global humanitarian response

The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023, has resulted in widespread violence, ethnic cleansing, and a catastrophic humanitarian crisis. Despite the death toll potentially exceeding 150,000, media coverage remains minimal, with little political attention or public outrage. Eyewitness accounts, such as that of Maryam Suleiman, reveal the brutal actions of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) against black Sudanese, including executions and sexual violence, signaling a targeted campaign reminiscent of past atrocities in Darfur. The lack of significant response from international activists and media reflects a troubling indifference, suggesting a hierarchy of humanitarian concern that often overlooks African conflicts. As the situation deteriorates, the moral obligation to address these atrocities intensifies. Click here to read... [2]

Azali Assoumani seeks presidential elections to be held on January 14

Incumbent President of Comoros Azali Assoumani, seeks re-election on January 14, 2025. A second round is scheduled for February 25. The largest opposition coalition, though divided, criticizes the election as predetermined and threatens a boycott. Opposition leader Mohamed Ali Soilihi demands democratic reforms, including release of political prisoners and return of exiles. Since seizing power in a 1999 coup, Assoumani has jailed opponents, leading many to exile. Courts recently rejected an appeal for voting rights for the diaspora. Click here to read... [3]

Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia forge strategic cooperation amid regional tensions

During an October 10 summit in Asmara, the presidents of Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia agreed to form a tripartite committee to enhance strategic cooperation. The leaders emphasized respect for international law, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, with a focus on bolstering Somalia’s capacity to combat terrorism and protect its borders. The agreement comes amidst regional tensions, particularly with Ethiopia, which signed a contentious naval base deal with Somaliland. The summit also addressed Sudan's civil war, Red Sea security, and Egypt’s concerns over Ethiopia’s Grand Renaissance Dam, which would control Nile waters, vital to Egypt. Click here to read... [4]

Nigeria NNPC and other partner signs deal to supply gas

Nigeria's National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), and partners including Shell, TotalEnergies and Agip, has signed a $3.3 billion gas supply deal with Brass Fertilizer & Petrochemical Co. Ltd., to support a major methanol-manufacturing plant. The agreement will supply 270 million cubic feet of gas daily to the plant, located on Brass Island, Bayelsa State. The project is expected to generate $1.5 billion annually in exports and reduce fertilizer imports by 30%, saving Nigeria $200 million in foreign exchange. This development aligns with Nigeria's broader strategy to diversify from oil to gas for economic growth and job creation. Click here to read... [5]

RSF accuses Egypt of conducting air strikes in Sudan’s escalating conflict

Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have accused Egypt of launching air strikes against their positions, intensifying the ongoing conflict between the RSF and Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the RSF leader, claims that Egypt has been supplying drones and U.S.-made munitions to the SAF and directly engaging in air strikes, particularly in the Jebel Moya area of Sennar state, forcing RSF troops to retreat. Egypt has firmly denied these allegations, maintaining its neutral stance and commitment to peace efforts in Sudan. The ongoing conflict, which erupted in April 2023, continues to cause widespread displacement and civilian casualties. Click here to read... [6]

Mozambique awaits results for 2024 presidential elections

Mozambique held its presidential election on October 9, 2024, featuring Daniel Chapo from the ruling Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (Frelimo), who is favored to succeed President Filipe Nyusi after his two terms. Chapo, a former governor, is expected to face significant competition from independent candidate Venâncio Mondlane, along with Ossufo Momade of Renamo and Lutero Simango from the Democratic Movement of Mozambique. The election occurs amidst pressing issues, including an ongoing Islamist insurgency and economic challenges marked by high unemployment and food shortages. While Frelimo has historically dominated elections, previous polls have been marred by allegations of vote-rigging, raising concerns about electoral integrity. Official results are anticipated within two weeks, with the potential for unrest depending on the outcomes. Click here to read... [7]

Constitutional court to review opposition parties' push for Ramaphosa's impeachment in ‘Farmgate’ scandal

South Africa’s Constitutional Court will hear a case next month from opposition parties seeking to revive impeachment proceedings against President Cyril Ramaphosa over a scandal involving $580,000 in cash hidden in a couch at his Phala ranch. The scandal emerged in June 2022, raising accusations of tax evasion, money laundering, and failure to report the theft to police. While Ramaphosa denied any wrongdoing, the scandal has been a significant threat to his leadership, particularly after the African National Congress (ANC) previously blocked impeachment motions in Parliament. The Economic Freedom Fighters and the African Transformation Movement argue that Parliament failed to fulfill its constitutional duty to hold the president accountable. Click here to read... [8]

AFRICA AND WORLD

European Commissioner for International Partnerships embarks on a visit to Ethiopia and AU

On October 14, 2024, European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen embarked on a visit to Ethiopia and the African Union Commission (AUC), to reinforce the shared commitment towards sustainable development and effective multilateralism. The visit, which aligns with the Joint Vision for 2030 established during the February 2022 Summit, aims to evaluate progress under the EU's Global Gateway strategy. Urpilainen will engage with Ethiopian officials and private sector representatives, participate in the EU-AU High-Level Dialogue on Economic Integration, and present initiatives to enhance economic cooperation, education, and skills development in Africa. Click here to read... [9]

Italy aims to launch earth observation satellites

Italy plans to revitalize its space center in Kenya, managed by the Italian Space Agency (ASI), to launch Earth observation satellites within a few years. The initiative aims to enhance capabilities in monitoring climate change phenomena, such as desertification. Additionally, the facility will serve as a training center for Kenyan students and industry experts, fostering skills in space technology. This endeavor aligns with Italy's Mattei Plan, a development program aimed at strengthening ties with African nations. Recent discussions between Italian and Kenyan officials focused on expanding bilateral agreements regarding the space center, which has historical significance dating back to the 1960s. Click here to read... [10]

Moody’s upgrades Ghana’s credit rating to ‘Caa2’ following successful debt restructuring

Moody's has upgraded Ghana’s long-term credit rating from “Caa3” to “Caa2” with a positive outlook, following successful debt restructuring. The restructuring, covering over $13 billion in debt, has alleviated financial pressures and is part of a broader fiscal consolidation plan backed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This upgrade reflects Ghana’s progress in stabilizing its economy after a near $30 billion debt default in 2022. Moody’s noted that continued efforts, including external debt restructuring and IMF support, have reduced liquidity risks and improved financial outlooks. (13-Oct) Click here to read... [11]

China-Africa Joint Research Center inaugurated to enhance academic collaboration and cultural diplomacy in Zimbabwe

The China-Africa Joint Research Center for Exchanges and Mutual Learning between Civilizations was inaugurated in Harare, Zimbabwe, to foster collaboration between Chinese and African academics. Co-founded by Renmin University of China and the University of Zimbabwe, the center aims to facilitate intellectual exchanges, promote innovative research, and enhance cultural diplomacy. University of Zimbabwe Vice Chancellor Paul Mapfumo emphasized the importance of this partnership in advancing human capital development through educational investments and joint projects. The center is expected to nurture entrepreneurship and provide solutions to societal challenges, reflecting both nations' commitment to modernization and cultural connection. Chinese Ambassador Zhou Ding highlighted the significance of education in strengthening bilateral relations. Click here to read... [12]

Africa-Europe Ocean Strategic Group Unveils Roadmap for Enhanced Ocean Cooperation

On 10 October 2024, the Africa-Europe Ocean Strategic Group presented its report aimed at fostering cooperation between Africa and Europe on ocean-related issues. Established by the European Commission and the African Union Commission, the group is funded by the European Maritime, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Fund. The report highlights the need for stronger ocean governance, which has been largely absent from Africa-Europe relations, despite the significance of the oceans for both continents. It proposes an action plan, the "Roadmap for an enhanced Africa-Europe Ocean Partnership," focusing on ocean governance, capacity-sharing, and finance. This effort comes ahead of major global events like UNFCCC CoP 29, from 11-22 November 2024; the 7th AU-EU Summit; and the 3rd UN Ocean Conference. Click here to read... [13]

Spain requests Frontex to obtain permission from African nations to control irregular migration

Spain's Interior Minister, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, has requested the European border agency Frontex to obtain permission from African nations, including Mauritania, Senegal, and Gambia, to patrol their waters to mitigate irregular migration to the Canary Islands. He emphasized that Frontex previously operated in African territories during peak migration in 2006 and noted its ongoing collaboration with Spanish border forces. Grande-Marlaska highlighted the need for proactive measures against human traffickers and improved border management to enhance the agency's effectiveness in curbing migration flows. The Atlantic route to the Canary Islands has seen a notable increase in irregular crossings, with tensions rising over the care of underage migrants. Click here to read... [14]

Need for AUSSOM considering heightening tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia

In light of escalating tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia over a maritime agreement with Somaliland, discussions in Washington and New York have highlighted the urgent need for preparation for the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). Somalia's national security adviser, Hussein Moalim, firmly stated that Ethiopian forces will not be included in the new mission unless Ethiopia withdraws from the controversial memorandum of understanding with Somaliland, which Somalia views as a violation of its sovereignty. The United Nations Security Council has emphasized the importance of diplomatic solutions to these tensions, with Somali officials advocating for international support to bolster Somalia's security and stability. Click here to read... [15]

IMF managing director, Kristalina Georgieva, advocates for Africa's increased representation and support amid debt challenges

At the Hamburg Sustainability Conference, Kristalina Georgieva, managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), emphasized the urgent need for Africa's representation in global financial institutions, citing significant debt challenges faced by many African nations. The IMF is addressing this by providing liquidity, promoting debt restructuring, and offering debt relief, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Georgieva announced that starting November 1, the IMF will add a board member from sub-Saharan Africa to enhance its governance structure. She underscored the IMF's commitment to balancing fiscal discipline with growth, job creation, and poverty reduction, recognizing Africa's vast potential for economic development. Click here to read... [16]

Ivory Coast expands cocoa processing capacity through strategic partnership with Malaysia's Guan Chong Berhad

Ivory Coast plans to sell a larger stake in its cocoa processor, Transcao, to Malaysia's Guan Chong Berhad (GCB), according to the country's cocoa regulator. GCB's Singapore subsidiary recently acquired a 25% stake, with potential for further investment pending government approval. CCC Director Yves Brahima Kone emphasized the need for technical expertise to enhance local cocoa processing and establish a foothold in the Asian market. Ivory Coast, the leading global cocoa producer, aims to expand its processing capabilities significantly, targeting a total capacity of 190,000 metric tons by the end of 2025, up from the current 50,000 tons. Click here to read... [17]

AFRICA AND INDIA

Indian President Droupadi Murmu on a three-nation tour of Africa

President Murmu is on a three-nation tour of Africa, visiting Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi from October 13 to 19, 2024. She arrived in Algeria on the first leg of her three-nation visit on October 13. During her historic visit to Algeria, Indian President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the enduring friendship between India and Algeria. She highlighted the two nations' shared commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation in various sectors, including trade, defense, and technology. Murmu noted the importance of mutual trust and collaboration, pointing out the potential for joint ventures that could benefit both economies. The visit also included discussions on regional security and stability, reinforcing their commitment to a multipolar world. Additionally, the President's interactions underscored the cultural ties that bind the two countries, reflecting a strong foundation for future partnerships. Click here to read... [18]

Matla-Urja energy conference to hosted by South Africa in University of the Witwatersrand

Wits Business School, in partnership with the Consulate General of India, will host the Matla-Urja energy conference at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg on November 28, 2024. The two-day event will bring together South African and Indian industry leaders and academics to discuss energy challenges, investment opportunities, market developments, and the future energy mix. Despite India's strides toward clean energy, it faces challenges such as climate change mitigation and funding. South Africa grapples with delivering secure, affordable, and clean energy while addressing poverty and inequality. The conference will foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing on these critical issues. Click here to read... [19]

INS Talwar arrives in South Africa to participate in IBSAMAR VIII

The Indian Navy's frontline stealth frigate, INS Talwar, arrived at Simon’s Town, South Africa, on 6 October 2024 to participate in IBSAMAR VIII, a multinational maritime exercise involving India, Brazil, and South Africa. Running from 6 to 18 October, the exercise focuses on enhancing naval interoperability and coordination, particularly in surface and anti-air warfare. The event includes professional exchanges, damage control drills, and joint diving operations. INS Talwar's presence aims to bolster defence ties between India and South Africa, continuing the momentum set by prior bilateral naval discussions in 2024. Click here to read... [20]

Adani Group negotiates $900 million power transmission project in Tanzania

The Adani Group is negotiating a significant $900 million public-private partnership project in Tanzania aimed at upgrading the country's electricity transmission infrastructure. This initiative will focus on the construction of high-voltage power lines, as confirmed by David Kafulila, the executive director of Tanzania's Public-Private Partnership Centre. Additionally, Tanzania is exploring a separate $300 million project with UK-based Gridworks Development Partners LLP under a similar partnership model. This investment forms part of Adani's broader strategy to enhance its presence in East Africa, following previous projects like managing the Dar es Salaam port. Click here to read... [21]

Tata secures landmark contract to produce 150 WhAP armoured vehicles for Moroccan Armed Forces

Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) has secured a significant contract to manufacture 150 Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) combat vehicles for the Moroccan armed forces, marking a major step in India's defense export strategy. This initiative is part of India's first overseas defense manufacturing plant, which will be established in Casablanca, Morocco. The WhAP, an 8x8 amphibious infantry combat vehicle developed in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), showcases versatility, capable of operating in various terrains and equipped with advanced armaments. The contract stipulates a delivery period of three years, aiming to enhance military cooperation between India and Morocco. Click here to read... [22]