Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, has addressed the United Nations General Assembly in New York calling for the expansion of the UN Security Council. Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stressed the importance of giving Africa permanent seats on the Security Council with the same rights and responsibilities as other permanent members.

The intervention follows remarks by US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield, who expressed US support for the creation of two permanent seats for Africa, although she clarified that these new members would not benefit from the right of veto.

The African position on permanent seats

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa also backed the move, while stressing the importance of new African members having the veto power. This remains a crucial element in discussions on Security Council reform.

For his part, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva considered the absence of permanent seats for Africa and Latin America “unacceptable”, reiterating the importance of reform to better reflect the current geopolitical reality.

Nigeria’s call for global financial reform

In addition to his demands for the UN, Kashim Shettima also called for a reform of the international financial architecture. He advocated for the cancellation of Nigeria’s debt to multilateral financial institutions. This demand comes in a context marked by the many challenges facing the country and the continent, such as terrorism, armed conflict, poverty, and inequality.

Conclusion

Nigeria’s position highlights the urgency of reforming international institutions to include African voices in global decision-making. Beyond security issues, the call for debt cancellation speaks to the major economic challenges to sustainable development in the region. The expansion of the UN Security Council and a review of global financial structures are now priorities for many countries in the Global South.

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Cut flower exports to rise sharply in 2024

Since the beginning of 2024, Kenya has already shipped 200,000 tonnes of cut flowers to international markets, representing 84% of the previous year’s total of 238,000 tonnes. According to Clement Tulezi, Managing Director of the Kenya Floriculture Council (KFC), these figures are expected to continue to grow, with shipments expected to reach 250,000 tonnes by the end of the year. If this forecast comes to fruition, it would mark a 5% increase from 2023, setting a new record for the country’s floriculture sector.

Growing international demand

This growth is largely attributed to increased demand in the international market, especially during key periods such as Valentine’s Day, which accounts for about 40% of Kenya’s annual flower sales. Furthermore, since April this year, the United Kingdom, the second largest export market for Kenyan flowers after the Netherlands, has allowed the import of cut flowers duty-free, facilitating trade and strengthening the competitiveness of Kenyan producers.

A thriving sector for the Kenyan economy

In 2023, cut flower exports earned over Ksh107.6 billion (about $834 million), according to data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS). The floriculture sector also provides income to over 200,000 people in the country, making it a key pillar of the local economy, particularly in rural areas.

Conclusion

Kenya’s floriculture sector is experiencing impressive growth momentum, with exports and revenues being generated steadily increasing. International demand, key periods such as Valentine’s Day, as well as access to key markets such as the UK, are all factors that have propelled the country to become the world’s 4th largest exporter. In the years to come, the Kenyan floriculture sector looks set to continue to grow, supporting the economy and providing employment to hundreds of thousands of people.

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Construction of two solar power plants to diversify energy sources

The Guinean government has announced the construction of two solar power plants worth a total of $90 million. This project, carried out in collaboration with the company Gigawatt Global, aims to diversify energy sources and meet the growing demand for electricity. According to the information presented by Mr. Soumah, the two plants will together produce 50 megawatts of energy, a significant reinforcement for the national electricity grid.

Focus on the regions of Siguiri and Kouroussa

The project mainly targets the populations of the prefectures of Siguiri and Kouroussa, located in the east of the country. Kaba Fodé Bamoudou, engineer in charge of the project for Gigawatt Global, stressed that Guinea is facing a growing energy need. This program aims not only to satisfy national consumption, but also to promote sub-regional consumption in a context where electrification remains a major challenge.

Access to electricity still limited in certain regions

Access to electricity in Guinea is marked by significant disparities. A 2022 report by the African Development Bank (AfDB) indicates that the electrification rate is 44.1% at the national level, but falls to 19.1% in rural areas. Some regions, such as Haute-Guinée and Guinée forestière, even have an access rate of less than 1%.

Infrastructure challenges and power outages

The capital Conakry, although better equipped, continues to suffer from disruptions due to dysfunctional infrastructure. In early 2024, massive power outages occurred due to a breakdown at the Tombo thermal power plant and a production deficit reducing available energy capacity by 75%.

Previous projects to increase energy capacity

Between 2016 and 2022, the Guinean government implemented several projects to increase electricity production capacity, including the commissioning of the Kaléta (240 MW) and Souapiti (450 MW) hydroelectric power plants. In 2021, Guinea also launched its first photovoltaic power plant connected to the national grid in Khoumagueli. This installation, with a capacity of 40 MW, complements the electricity supplied by the Garafiri hydroelectric power plant, which produces 75 MW.

Conclusion

Guinea is working to fill its electrification gaps, including through the development of solar projects in underserved areas. While progress has been made with the establishment of new infrastructure, the country still faces major challenges, particularly in rural areas and in terms of managing existing infrastructure, to ensure equitable access to electricity for the entire population.

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Reactions from the opposition and human rights activists

The announcement sparked outrage among opposition and human rights activists, who have strongly criticized what they see as a “denial of justice.” They deplore the lack of transparency surrounding the circumstances surrounding the death of the young soldier, who was arrested after attacking the head of state near Moroni on September 13.

Details of arrest and death

After his arrest, Ahmed Abdou was placed in solitary confinement. According to the statement published by the Prosecution in the state-run newspaper Al-Watwan, his remains were discovered the following morning when investigators went to question him. The Prosecution said the soldier’s body was found lying down and lifeless. A military doctor determined the time of death to be 2 a.m., saying there were no visible gunshot, blunt or sharp injuries. On this basis, the Prosecution considered that there was no need to continue the investigation.

Body handed over to family and no autopsy

Moroni prosecutor Ali Mohamed Djounaid said that Ahmed Abdou’s body was immediately handed over to his family, ruling out the possibility of an autopsy. The deceased was buried a few hours later, in accordance with Muslim rites, the majority religion in the Comoros.

No response on investigation into attack on president

In parallel, another investigation is underway concerning the circumstances and motivations of the attack on President Azali. However, the prosecutor did not provide further details on the progress of this investigation when questioned by AFP.

Conclusion

The abrupt end of this investigation leaves several questions unanswered, particularly on the real causes of the young soldier’s death. The lack of an autopsy and the reaction of the opposition highlight a possible crisis of confidence in the Comorian judicial system, while the attack on the president continues to raise questions.

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Contexte de l’achat controversé

L’achat de l’avion présidentiel, d’un montant estimé à près de 40 millions de dollars à l’époque, ainsi que l’acquisition de matériel militaire auprès d’une société malienne, ont été réalisés sans appel d’offres. Cette procédure non conforme avait conduit à des sanctions financières contre le Mali, notamment la suspension pendant six mois des décaissements du Fonds monétaire international (FMI). Les montants précis des irrégularités supposées ont ensuite varié en fonction des sources.

Les principaux accusés

Parmi les principaux accusés figurent l’ex-Premier ministre Soumeylou Boubèye Maïga, qui occupait le poste de ministre de la Défense au moment des faits, ainsi que l’ex-ministre de l’Économie et des Finances, Bouaré Fily Sissoko. Tous deux avaient été placés en détention en 2021 dans le cadre de cette affaire. Ils sont poursuivis pour atteinte aux biens publics, escroquerie, faux et favoritisme. M. Maïga est décédé en prison en mars 2023, après avoir clamé son innocence dans la presse. Ses partisans ont accusé les autorités de transition de l’avoir laissé mourir en détention.

Autres accusés impliqués dans l’affaire

L’ancien directeur de cabinet de l’ex-président Keïta, Mahamadou Camara, est également poursuivi et placé en détention. D’autres anciens hauts responsables maliens font face à des accusations similaires et sont jugés cette semaine dans cette affaire emblématique de la mauvaise gestion et de la corruption sous l’ancien régime.

Conclusion

Le procès des anciens dignitaires du régime d’Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta met en lumière une affaire qui a marqué la mauvaise gouvernance au Mali et continue d’avoir des répercussions sur le plan politique. Ce jugement, très attendu, est vu par beaucoup comme un test de la capacité des nouvelles autorités à rendre justice dans un pays miné par la corruption. Cependant, la mort en détention de Soumeylou Boubèye Maïga a soulevé des questions sur les conditions de détention et sur l’impact des rivalités politiques sur le processus judiciaire.

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An electoral code adapted to the parliamentary regime

The adoption of the new electoral code comes in a context of political transformation in Togo. The country recently switched to a parliamentary regime, a major change that required the adjustment of the electoral legal framework. According to the government, this new text aims to ensure transparency, fairness and stability during the next elections, while adapting to the institutional specificities of the parliamentary regime.

The Minister of Territorial Administration said that this new code takes into account all the challenges that the country has faced in past elections. It also highlights mechanisms to ensure better citizen participation and a more balanced representation of political parties.

Lessons from past elections

The new electoral code also draws on the experiences and lessons learned from previous elections. The government has stressed that these adjustments aim to correct the weaknesses of the previous electoral system and consolidate democracy in Togo. Key innovations include provisions on the organization of legislative and local elections, as well as measures to enhance the transparency of electoral processes.

The Togolese authorities also stressed the importance of this text for the political stability of the country. They hope that this new framework will help avoid the tensions and disputes that have marked certain elections in the past, by ensuring fair and inclusive elections.

Conclusion: Towards a modernization of the Togolese electoral system

The adoption of the new electoral code by ordinance represents a key step in the evolution of the Togolese political landscape. By adapting to the parliamentary system and taking into account the experiences of previous elections, the government hopes to provide a stronger and better adapted framework for the next elections. However, the effectiveness of this reform will depend on its implementation and the ability of political actors to respect its principles to ensure genuine democratic progress.

This reform could pave the way for greater electoral stability and better representation of citizens, while strengthening the confidence of Togolese people in their political institutions.

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Meeting with Congolese authorities in Kinshasa

Tony Parker began his stay in the DRC with discussions with Congolese authorities in Kinshasa. During this meeting, he discussed the role of sport, particularly basketball, in promoting youth and in the development of the DRC. These discussions highlighted the importance of sport as a lever for education and social integration. Parker stressed his interest in creating opportunities for young African talents and in promoting sporting values ​​on the continent.

Visit to a basketball academy

After his interviews in Kinshasa, Tony Parker visited a basketball academy, where he met with young Congolese athletes. The center, which strives to train future players while providing them with an educational environment, embodies the vision that Parker has been advocating for years: allowing young people to flourish through sport. The former basketball player attended several training sessions, gave advice to the young players, and shared his experience as a high-level player.

Tony Parker also highlighted the potential of young African basketball players, recalling that several NBA stars, such as Serge Ibaka or Bismack Biyombo, have African roots and have been able to shine on the international stage. He encouraged young athletes to continue their efforts and believe in their dreams.

Conclusion: A commitment to the future of sport in Africa

Tony Parker’s visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo is a testament to his commitment to the development of basketball in Africa. Through his meetings with authorities and his presence among young people, he shows that he wants to use his influence and experience to inspire the new generation of African athletes. The former Spurs point guard, now involved in numerous philanthropic projects, continues to promote the values ​​of sport, such as teamwork, perseverance and ambition, while supporting African youth.

His visit could also pave the way for new collaborations to strengthen sports infrastructure in the region and provide more opportunities for young African talents to shine on the international stage.

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A call to avoid an “information black hole”

Sadibou Marong, the director of RSF’s sub-Saharan Africa desk, expressed concern about the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel, fearing that the region could become an “information black hole.” He stressed the importance of community radio stations in this part of the continent, which broadcast local news on key issues such as health, education and agriculture. These radio stations play a crucial role, particularly in remote areas where access to information is already limited for material, security and political reasons.

A vital role in conflict zones

Community radio stations, often the only reliable source of information in areas affected by the spread of jihadism and armed violence, have become a target for armed groups. Present in Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Chad, they are under increasing pressure. Local journalists report cases of direct intervention by these groups to influence or censor the content broadcast. Sometimes, these armed groups even take control of the antennas.

Murder and threats against community journalists

Journalists working for these radio stations are often on the front lines of violence. Sadibou Marong described the dramatic situation in Chad, where journalists have been found in their homes and killed for covering conflicts between farmers and herders. In this context, RSF criticised the “inability” of states to ensure the safety of these journalists, who find themselves increasingly isolated and vulnerable.

Conclusion: Saving information in the Sahel

The appeal by West African community radio stations and RSF underlines the urgent need to protect journalists operating in the Sahel, otherwise the region risks becoming a zone completely deprived of independent information. While these media play an essential role for local populations, the inaction of states in the face of increasing violence threatens not only press freedom, but also access to vital information for millions of people. International mobilization is needed to guarantee the safety of journalists and maintain the flow of information in this crisis-ridden region.

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Arrest in context of political repression

Jameson Timba, leader of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), was arrested at his home on June 16, along with many members of his movement. The raid was part of what human rights groups have described as a systematic crackdown by Zimbabwean authorities ahead of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit, scheduled for a month later. The 16-nation summit took place in Harare on July 17.

Charges revised but release still denied

On September 4, Timba and his supporters were acquitted of the original charge of disturbing the peace, which they had been facing since their arrest. However, they remain charged with participating in an unauthorized gathering. On Monday, the judge in charge of their case justified his refusal to release the defendants on bail by saying that there were “no new circumstances” that would justify their release. The pretrial detention thus continues, despite calls for their release.

Political context and implications of the SADC summit

The arrests come amid rising political tensions in Zimbabwe, where civil liberties have been regularly challenged. The SADC summit, which saw President Emmerson Mnangagwa begin a one-year term at the head of the regional organisation, was seen as a key moment to consolidate power. The mass arrests of opposition figures, particularly at the international meeting, have fuelled accusations that the government is repressing and muzzling the opposition.

Reactions from human rights organizations

NGOs and international observers have denounced the arrests as a blatant example of the curtailment of political freedoms in Zimbabwe. These human rights groups believe that the crackdown on the opposition and the prosecution of political leaders like Jameson Timba are part of a broader strategy to reduce the space for democratic expression in the run-up to major political elections.

Despite this criticism, the Zimbabwean authorities have persisted in their position, justifying the extension of the preventive detention of Timba and his supporters by the seriousness of the charges against them.

Conclusion: A tense and uncertain political climate

The denial of bail to Jameson Timba and his supporters is a reflection of the political crisis in Zimbabwe. As arrests of opposition figures and accusations of repression mount, the opposition’s room for maneuver appears increasingly limited. This situation further undermines Zimbabwe’s democracy and raises concerns about the future of political freedoms in the country. If these tensions persist, they could have long-term implications not only for Zimbabwe’s political stability, but also for its relations with regional and international partners, who are closely monitoring developments.

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President Nana Akufo-Addo signs the law into law

Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo signed the Affirmative Action and Gender Equality Act into law last week. The signing comes three months before the December 7 presidential election, marking the end of his term. The law, passed by parliament in July, requires public institutions, security services, the judiciary, political parties, trade unions and the private sector to promote gender equality. It sets a target of 50% of public service positions to be filled by women by 2030, while less than 15% of current parliamentarians are women.

Quotas and tax benefits for the private sector

The private sector is also affected by the law, which provides for the establishment of quotas reserving positions for women. In return, companies will benefit from tax advantages. Currently, only 27% of management positions in the private sector are held by women, according to the World Bank.

A step forward towards unleashing women’s potential

Celestine Damoah, Advocacy Officer at the Centre for Democracy and Socio-Economic Development, underscores the importance of the law, saying: “This is more than just a law, it is the key to unlocking the potential of generations of women who have been waiting for their moment to rise up.”

A long legislative process

The first draft of the law was introduced in parliament in 1998, but it was only after several attempts and nearly 30 years of debate that it was finally passed. Both of the country’s main political parties, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), have included gender equality measures in their respective platforms.

Political parties’ promises for gender equality

The NDC is committed to establishing a Women’s Development Bank to provide soft loans to women-owned businesses. The NPP, for its part, is proposing the establishment of a Women’s Trade Empowerment Fund (WoTEF) to support women-owned businesses.

Persistent challenges in a conservative society

Despite the optimism surrounding the law’s passage, questions remain about its implementation. Ghanaian society remains overwhelmingly conservative, with high rates of domestic violence: 38.7% of married women aged 15 to 49 reported experiencing violence, according to a 2016 government report. For Rodaline Imoru Ayarna, a member of the Alliance for Revolutionary Change, it is crucial to “change mentalities” and show that “women can do the same job as men, if not better.”

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