Africa Now (15-31 October, 2024)

OVERVIEW

The African continent’s explosive population growth, large reserves of industry-dependent minerals, proximity to key maritime shipping routes, and its collective diplomatic power ensure the continent’s global importance. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the African continent is increasingly recognized for its strategic importance in global affairs. This edition of Africa Now news digest aims to delve into the major geopolitical, economic, and security developments taking place in the continent.

Somalia expelled Ethiopian diplomat over Ethiopia’s port deal with Somaliland further threatening to expel Ethiopian peacekeeping troops. In Sudan, ongoing conflict between the SAF and RSF continues to caused severe humanitarian crisis intensifying regional instability. Concurrently, Islamist militants from Burkina Faso have moved supplies through northern Ghana, raising fears of extremist violence expanding in West Africa. On democratic developments, Botswana held general elections amid economic challenge. Moreover, Kenya’s Deputy PM Rigathi Gachagua was impeached, exposing political divisions within the government. Senegalese PM Sonko’s convoy was attacked while campaigning amid pre-election tensions.

On the geopolitical front major global regions and nations, have aimed to strengthen their engagement with Africa. As, Brazil’s Embraer’s $300 million aerospace partnership with Morocco aimed to expand Moroccan aviation sector. Concurrently, France and Morocco signed €10 billion worth of deals. Further, Türkiye seeks to enhance African ties through trade, defense, and diplomacy efforts. Meanwhile, Italy seeks stronger economic and migration ties with Libya. USA announced visa restrictions, over Ghana, on individuals undermining democracy ahead of the December elections. Simultaneously, escalating RSF-led violence in Sudan was condemned by U.S., whereas, UN Secretary-General Guterres appealed for urgent humanitarian intervention in the region. The IMF approved a $606 million loan for Kenya to strengthen its fiscal and climate resilience. Also, the IMF released a report on Sub-Saharan Africa that projects steady growth, recommending balanced reforms to address inflation and debt.

India further strengthened its engagement with the African nations. As Indian PM, Narendra Modi plans to visit Nigeria in November 2024 to strengthen ties with Africa. Whereas, President Droupadi Murmu concludes her visit, strengthening diplomatic ties during three African nation visits. Further, India and Mauritania sign MoUs to enhance cooperation in agriculture and renewable energy, and India-Nigeria ties experience a revitalization as strategic partnership was forged to boost trade and cooperation. While, India appointed new Ambassador to Liberia.

AFRICA

Expulsion of Ethiopian Diplomat from Somalia intensifies dispute

Somalia announced the expulsion of an Ethiopian diplomat in the wake of a port deal between Ethiopia and the breakaway region of Somaliland. Somalia considers the MoU as a breach of its sovereignty and threatens to expel up to 10,000 Ethiopian soldiers stationed in Somalia if the deal is not revoked. This move by Somalia can cause a severe security lapse as the Ethiopian troops are stationed there both, as part of a peacekeeping mission, and through bilateral arrangements, to counter the terrorist group, Al-Shabaab mainly. Since the region is strategically located, any conflict in the Horn of Africa could disrupt commercial shipping and trade in the region. Click here to read... [2]

Senegal’s PM Sonko targeted in campaign convoy attack amid pre-election tensions

On October 30, Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko’s convoy was attacked with stones while he campaigned in Koungheul ahead of the November 17 snap parliamentary elections. Sonko was unharmed, but Malick Gakou, an allied party leader, suffered a broken arm. The incident follows heightened political tensions since President Bassirou Diomaye Faye dissolved the opposition-controlled parliament in September. Civil society leaders, including those from Amnesty International and Transparency International, condemned the violence and urged restraint among competing parties. Local opposition leader Fanta Sall reported further clashes involving pro-Sonko activists, raising concerns about escalating hostilities during the election period. Click here to read... [3]

Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan Continues

The war which erupted in mid-April 2023 due to conflict between Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) is slowly escalating into one of the world’s largest displacement crises, having displaced more than 11 million people. This is marked by rampant violence and disease, acute hunger, numerous cases of mass killings and sexual violence, incidents of ethnic cleansing and significant civilian casualties – all these culminating into severe humanitarian crisis the region has been experiencing. The continuation of crisis is indicative of a larger risk of regional instability from the Sahel region to the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea. Click here to read... [4]

Nigeria blocks Shell asset sale, upsets foreign investors

The government stopped Shell, one of the biggest oil companies of the World, from selling its stakes in various onshore oil fields in the Nigeria. On the other hand, the government approved ExxonMobil-Seplat deal. It should be noted that Seplat Energy is a Nigerian company with a strong hold in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. This move by Nigerian government demonstrates Nigeria’s broader goal to boost domestic control, attract local investment, ensure environmental sustainability and reduce dependence on foreign companies. While focusing on local involvement in the oil sector, the government is also open to foreign partnership for its expertise and investment. This development is only reflective of Nigerian Government’s efforts to reshape it oil sector, benefitting local as well as foreign stakeholders. Click here to read... [5]

Botswana holds its general elections

On 24th October, Botswana, Africa’s longest serving democracy held its general elections, for both the National Assembly and the Presidency, amidst severe drought and drop in diamond revenue. Voter participation would play a crucial role as the country runs an indirect election system where voters will elect parliament members. The head of the governing party at the end of the vote count is then appointed as president for the next five years. There will be a tight contest of power between the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) led by President Masisi and the opposition, Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC). The outcome of the election would be crucial for Botswana’s future political trajectory, given the country’s reputation for being one of the most successful democracies of Africa. Click here to read... [6]

Sahel Jihadis find refuge in Ghana, raises security concerns

Islamist militants from Burkina Faso are using Ghana’s north to stock up fuel, food and explosives. This move raises grave security concerns as it could help them expand their footprint not just in Ghana, which has generally enjoyed political stability but also in West Africa. The risk of spreading of extremist violence in the wider west African region is daunting and there’s an urgent need international partnership to secure peace and stability in the region. Click here to read... [7]

Kenya’s Deputy PM ousted in a historic impeachment vote

Rigathi Gachagua, Kenya’s Deputy Prime Minister was impeached on October 17, 2024 due to accusations of corruption, abuse of office, money laundering and misconduct. He is the first deputy PM to be removed in such a manner. The impeachment exposes the growing divisions and political tensions among the Kenyan ruling factions. This instability could increase political uncertainty and undermine public confidence in the government. Click here to read... [8]

AFRICA AND WORLD

Morocco and Embraer forge $300 million aerospace partnership to boost aviation sector

Morocco’s industry and investment departments have signed a $300 million agreement with Brazil’s Embraer to jointly develop commercial, defense, and urban aviation projects, with plans to establish a maintenance facility. The Memorandum of Understanding, signed at the Marrakech Air Show, projects reaching $1 billion by 2035. This deal bolsters Morocco’s expanding aerospace sector, which already hosts 147 facilities supplying leading firms like Boeing, Safran, and Airbus. Click here to read... [9]

IMF approves Kenya’s loan review, unlocking $606 million in funding

The IMF has approved a $606 million loan for Kenya, aimed at strengthening the country's fiscal stability and resilience to climate challenges. This funding includes support for Kenya's debt management, governance reforms, and sustainable development efforts. Notably, $120.3 million is allocated under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility to enhance climate adaptation. The IMF also highlighted Kenya’s resilient growth and the importance of balanced fiscal reforms to meet debt obligations and protect essential social spending. Click here to read... [10]

Visa restriction by USA on individuals responsible for undermining democracy in Ghana

On October 28, 2024, the U.S. State Department announced it will impose visa restrictions on individuals undermining Ghana's democracy ahead of the December 7 general election. Ghana, with a history of peaceful elections since 1992, faces scrutiny this year due to alleged irregularities in the voter roll. The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has demanded an audit, claiming thousands of unauthorized changes. Secretary of State Antony Blinken clarified that the visa policy targets individuals, not the Ghanaian government. This policy mirrors a similar approach used before Nigeria's 2023 election. Click here to read... [11]

Release of Regional Economic Outlook: Reform Amid Great Expectations for Sub-Saharan Africa

On October 25, 2024, IMF released Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Economic Outlook: Reform Amid Great Expectations. The IMF projects Sub-Saharan Africa’s economic growth to hold steady at 3.6% in 2024, with a modest rise to 4.2% in 2025. Persistent challenges, including high inflation, elevated debt, and tight financing conditions, limit progress. Key recommendations for policymakers include balancing macroeconomic reforms with social considerations, addressing job creation, and pursuing gender equality to drive sustainable growth. High-imbalance countries may require swift fiscal adjustments and international financial support, while others should focus on easing monetary policy and rebuilding fiscal reserves. Click here to read... [12]

France, Morocco sign deals worth over €10 billion during Macron visit

France and Morocco signed agreements worth up to €10 billion during President Emmanuel Macron’s visit, aimed at improving bilateral ties. The deals include energy and infrastructure projects, with French firms Alstom, Engie, and TotalEnergies committing to investments in Morocco’s transport and renewable sectors. The visit follows years of strained relations due to disagreements over the Western Sahara issue and reduced French visa access for Moroccans. Macron’s endorsement of Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara has shifted diplomatic relations positively. Click here to read... [13]

USA condemns attacks on civilians by Sudan’s RSF and imposed sanctions on RSF leaders

The Sudanese Rapid Support Forces (RSF) recently launched severe attacks on civilians in eastern al-Gezira, targeting multiple villages and causing extensive harm, especially to women and children. The U.S. condemned these actions and imposed sanctions on RSF leader Algoney Hamdan Daglo Musa, urging adherence to international humanitarian obligations. The conflict has intensified Sudan’s humanitarian crisis, with over 25 million Sudanese in need of aid and 14 million displaced. The U.S. reiterated support for Sudanese civilians’ call for a democratic, civilian-led government. Click here to read... [14]

Italy prioritizes strengthening economic and migration ties with Libya

On October 29, 2024, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized the significance of strengthening ties with Libya during her recent visit to Tripoli for the Italy-Libya Business Forum. She highlighted Libya as a crucial economic partner for Italy and expressed intentions to revitalize stalled collaborations. Meloni underscored the potential for Libya to serve as an energy hub for Europe and announced the restoration of flights between Italy and Libya by ITA Airways next year. Additionally, she mentioned enhanced cooperation on migration issues to combat illegal migration while facilitating legal migration flows. Click here to read... [15]

UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlights on worrying situation of crisis in Sudan

UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned of a worsening humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces has led to mass displacement, severe hunger, and disease outbreaks. With 25 million in urgent need of aid, and 750,000 on the brink of starvation, he urged an immediate ceasefire, civilian protection, and unrestricted humanitarian access. Guterres condemned external actors for fueling violence and emphasized the need for decisive international action to support Sudanese-led humanitarian efforts and peacebuilding initiatives. He noted that “conditions do not exist” for a UN peacekeeping force deployment, urging an immediate ceasefire, protection of civilians, and unrestricted humanitarian access. Click here to read... [16]

Senegal led preparations for UN 2026 Water Conference at Cairo Water Week

At the 7th Cairo Water Week, coinciding with the 9th Africa Water Week, Senegal engaged with key African and global stakeholders to prepare for the UN 2026 Water Conference. Discussions emphasized building an inclusive, sustainable roadmap to address water scarcity, aiming to advance Sustainable Development Goal 6 on clean water and sanitation. Sessions co-organized by Egypt, Senegal, and the UAE highlighted collaborative solutions for water security, including climate-linked water resilience and desalination. Senegal announced a high-level meeting in 2025, and South Africa plans the AU-Africa Water Investment Summit. Click here to read... [17]

Türkiye seeks stronger ties with Africa at Djibouti Ministerial Meeting amid expanding influence

Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will attend a ministerial meeting in Djibouti on November 2-3 to advance Türkiye-Africa cooperation. The meeting, with representatives from 14 African countries, will review Türkiye's expanded influence in Africa since 2021, marked by trade, defense, and diplomacy. Türkiye has recently signed energy and mining deals with Niger, provided drones and military training to Somalia and Burkina Faso, and is mediating a coastal access dispute between Somalia and Ethiopia. This growing engagement places Türkiye in competition with global powers like France, Russia, and China. Click here to read... [18]

Egyptian mediates to resume ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas

An Egyptian security delegation met Hamas leaders in Cairo on October 24, 2024, aiming to resume ceasefire talks for Gaza, stalled since August 2024. Egypt and Qatar have been key mediators between Israel and Hamas, following renewed conflict sparked by Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. Hamas chief negotiator Khalil Al-Hayya led discussions with Egyptian intelligence head Hassan Mahmoud Rashad. Concurrently, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed support for Egypt’s role in advancing a hostage-release deal, while Qatar and U.S. diplomats arranged further negotiations in Doha to pursue a ceasefire and hostage release. Click here to read... [19]

AFRICA AND INDIA

Manoj Bihari Verma appointed as India's new Ambassador to Liberia

Manoj Bihari Verma has been appointed as India's new Ambassador to Liberia, as announced by the Ministry of External Affairs. Currently serving as Counsellor at the High Commission of India in Dar-es-Salaam, Verma, a 2009 batch officer, is expected to assume his new role shortly. This appointment follows discussions at the recent CII India-Africa Business Conclave, where Liberia's Vice President highlighted the importance of the longstanding diplomatic and commercial relationship between India and Liberia, emphasizing India's contributions to global politics and security. Click here to read... [20]

India and Nigeria forge strategic partnership to boost trade and cooperation in key sectors

India and Nigeria have outlined a new cooperative framework aimed at expanding collaboration in key sectors, including energy, financial services, healthcare, and digital payments. Both countries committed to enhancing economic ties and reversing a recent dip in trade, which had decreased from $11.8 billion in 2022-23 to $7.89 billion in 2023-24. The partnership aims to integrate India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in Nigeria to support financial inclusion, promote affordable healthcare, and tap into Nigeria’s rich natural resources. This cooperative vision underscores India's deepening investment in Nigeria, where over 135 Indian companies currently operate. Click here to read... [21]

PM Modi’s upcoming visits to Guyana and Nigeria aim to strengthen ties with Caribbean and Africa

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Guyana and Nigeria in November, marking his first trip to these nations. This visit is strategically significant for India’s growing engagement with the Caribbean and African regions. In Guyana, discussions will likely focus on enhancing ties within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), where India has supported developmental projects, including grants and loans for renewable energy. Meanwhile, in Nigeria, Modi’s visit emphasizes deepening India-Africa relations, following the 2007 strategic partnership and recent security and counterterrorism collaborations. This visit aligns with India’s diplomatic priorities in both regions. Click here to read... [22]

President Droupadi Murmu concludes her visit, strengthening diplomatic ties during three African nation visits

President Droupadi Murmu concluded her three-nation tour of Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi, departing from Malawi after a ceremonial farewell led by Vice President Michael Bizwick Usi. This historic visit, a year after the African Union’s G20 membership, underscored India’s commitment to strengthening ties with Africa. During the trip, Murmu held bilateral discussions with leaders in each country and engaged with the Indian diaspora, further solidifying India’s diplomatic relations with the continent. Click here to read... [23]

India and Mauritania sign MoUs to enhance cooperation in agriculture and renewable energy

India and Mauritania signed several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to strengthen cooperation in agriculture, renewable energy, and other strategic areas. The agreements, finalized during President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to Mauritania, which aimed to enhance collaboration by leveraging India’s technological expertise and Mauritania’s natural resources. Key provisions include training diplomats, visa exemptions for officials, and initiatives for socio-cultural exchanges. These MoUs mark a significant step in India’s efforts to build sustainable partnerships across Africa. Click here to read... [24]