Sub-Saharan Africa
The Shakeup of Mali’s Junta
On April 25th, 2026, a series of coordinated attacks by Tuareg separatists and Al-Qaeda linked militants resulted in the killing of the Malian Defense Minister, General Sadio Camara. Further attacks were directed toward the Malian President, Colonel Assimi Goïta.
Guinea’s Military Government Dissolves 40 Political Parties
Guinea’s military-led government has dissolved 40 of the nation’s political parties, further consolidating government power while echoing a growing trend in the Sahel region.
Weeks-Long Fuel Blockade in Mali Continues to Worsen
Mali, a country of 25 million people, has faced a weeks-long fuel shortage due to a blockade on fuel imports by jihadi militants. Daily life in Mali has been deeply disrupted, with basic necessities such as medical services having their services disrupted due to a lack of fuel.
Op-ed: Is Russia Really Helping Developing African Nations?
As part of its battle for power against the Western world, under Vladimir Putin’s leadership Russia has turned to developing nations to extend his influence.
Russia Avoids Western Sanctions in Alliance with Gabon
Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Russian ship fleets have turned to countries outside of the Western economic world to dodge increasing sanctions and oil caps.
Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Strengthen Russian Relations in a New Satellite Deal
On Monday, Sept. 23, a partnership was signed between Russia and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a military cooperation including Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Burkina Faso Turns to Russia for Nuclear Power
Ibrahim Traore, leader of Burkina Faso’s military junta, signed a deal with Rosatom, Russian state nuclear corporation, to construct a nuclear power plant on Friday. The construction of the plant is Burkina Faso’s latest effort to increase access to electricity for the 79 percent of their citizens currently living without power.
Western Countries Raise Concerns Over Wagner Group’s Presence in Mali
The UN Human Rights Council discussed the alleged human rights violations by the Russian Wagner Group.
France Attempts to Reassert Its Position in West Africa
President Macron of France embarked on a tour in West Africa last week to strengthen economic ties and de-escalate French military operations in the region.