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AU Mission Transfers Ceel Eglow Base to Somali National Army Amid Troop Drawdown

by Jordan Luke
written by Jordan Luke

The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (Atmis) announced on Monday the transfer of the Ceel Eglow military base in the Middle Shabelle region to the Somali National Army (SNA). This move is part of Atmis’ ongoing withdrawal of troops from Somalia.

Ceel Eglow is the third base to be handed over in Phase Three of the Atmis troop drawdown. Atmis Sector Five Commander Oscal Hatungimana praised the cooperation between Atmis forces, local residents, and international partners in combating the Al Shabaab extremist group, which has been active in the region.

The strategically important Ceel Eglow base, guarded by Atmis Burundi troops since 2019, secures the main supply routes between Mogadishu and Jowhar, facilitating both military and humanitarian operations.

The third phase of the Atmis drawdown aligns with United Nations Security Council Resolutions 2628 (2022), 2670 (2022), and 2710 (2023), mandating the withdrawal of 4,000 troops by the end of June. The AU Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) advocates a phased withdrawal to prevent a security vacuum.

In response to a request from Somalia in May, the AUPSC supports a phased approach to the Phase Three drawdown, allowing Mogadishu to retain half of the troops initially scheduled for withdrawal by June’s end. The AUPSC emphasizes that the transition from Atmis to its successor mission must be seamless to avoid a security lapse between December 31 and January 1, 2025.

The AUPSC cautions that ongoing operations against Al Shabaab and the full implementation of the Phase Three drawdown could create capability gaps, potentially impacting the security of Somalia and the broader region.

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AFRICA

The Success of the Ojude Oba Festival Celebrating Culture and Economic Growth

by Jordan Luke
written by Jordan Luke

The annual Ojude Oba Festival, a vibrant showcase of Ijebu culture and tradition, recently concluded with resounding success. Thousands of participants and visitors adorned in elaborate traditional attire, captivated audiences with dances, music, and impressive equestrian displays. The festival underscored the economic potential of cultural traditions by empowering local businesses, service providers, artists, and artisans across Ogun, Lagos, and other states in South West Nigeria.

Ogun State Governor, Adedapo Abiodun, MFR, emphasized the festival’s potential for economic and social development through tourism. He committed to elevating the Ojude Oba Festival to a global stage, envisioning its recognition on the international tourism calendar and support from the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

A key element of the festival’s legacy is the Regberegbe system, a tradition of age-grade solidarity and mutual support. Originating from communal labor practices, Regberegbe has evolved into a symbol of community cooperation, fostering social bonds and collective responsibility. This unique social structure empowers individuals and has significantly contributed to the resilience and development of the Ijebu community for centuries.

FCMB Group Plc, a major sponsor of the Ojude Oba Festival, acknowledges its substantial contribution to social cohesion and development. By celebrating shared cultural heritage, promoting unity among diverse groups, and strengthening community bonds, the festival fosters a conducive environment for socioeconomic growth.

Ladi Balogun, Group Chief Executive of FCMB Group Plc, highlighted in his goodwill message that the festival attracts visitors from across Nigeria and the diaspora, boosting trade and tourism in Ijebuland, Ogun State, and Nigeria. He encouraged the Ijebu people to embrace the festival’s spirit of togetherness and use it as a catalyst for further development and inspiration for younger generations.

Chief Executive Officer, Metropolitan Motors Limited, Dr. Olutoyin Okeowo; Group Chief Executive, FCMB Group Plc, Mr. Ladi Balogun and a Director of FCMB Group, Professor Oluwatoyin Ashiru, during the Ojude-Oba festival held in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State on June 18, 2024.

This year’s Ojude Oba Festival saw the participation of 90 Regberegbe groups, a significant increase from 76 in 2023. This surge reflects a rise in social cohesion, essential for promoting unity and peaceful coexistence within the community.

Adewale Adenugba, CEO of Blooms Hotel in Ijebu-Ode, spoke on the festival’s economic impact: “The festival has significantly boosted business activities across Ijebuland over the years, coinciding with the Muslim Eid-el-Kabr celebration when many Ijebus and their friends return home. Hotels in Ijebu-Ode and surrounding towns experience full occupancy, and relaxation centers see increased activity. Artisans, traders, and vendors of various items, including festival paraphernalia, food, drinks, and transportation services, enjoy brisk business and substantial income. Aggregating these, the festival generates billions in revenue, benefiting not only Ijebu-Ode and Ogun State but also Nigeria. I urge the government to leverage this platform to further promote tourism.”

FCMB Group Plc, a steadfast supporter of the Ojude Oba Festival for over 20 years, is committed to fostering inclusive and sustainable growth within its communities by building a supportive ecosystem connecting people, capital, and markets across Africa.

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AFRICA

Burkina Faso Junta Leader Denies Coup Attempt Amid Deadly Insurgent Attack

by Jordan Luke
written by Jordan Luke

According to a Reuters report, approximately 100 soldiers were killed in an attack by al Qaeda-linked insurgents on a Burkina Faso military base near the Niger border. The attack sparked immediate speculation of a coup attempt against the country’s military government, which itself came to power through a coup. However, Capt Ibrahim Traoré, the junta leader, refuted these claims in a national TV address.

Speaking publicly for the first time since the incident, Traoré stated that Burkina Faso had initiated an operation in response to the attack and had sent reinforcements to combat the insurgents. He did not address the al Qaeda involvement directly. “It’s absolutely not the case. We are here,” Traoré assured, addressing the crowd gathered outside the offices of the state-run RTB Television.

This statement was in response to concerns about his safety after gunfire was heard near the presidential residence and a rocket shell landed close to RTB’s headquarters in Ouagadougou on June 12. “The incident happened while we were at the council of ministers,” Traoré confirmed. He explained that the rocket shell resulted from an accidental discharge by the unit stationed at RTB to protect the TV station’s staff, noting that there were no casualties.

A Reuters source indicated that Russian and Malian reinforcements had been brought in over the past week to bolster Capt Ibrahim Traoré’s security. The neighboring junta-led governments in the region have increasingly relied on Russian support over Western assistance for security amid widespread political instability and Islamist insurgencies.

Between June 15 and June 18, a Russian-registered cargo jet made seven flights to Ouagadougou from Gao and Bamako in Mali, as per a Reuters analysis of FlightRadar24 flight monitoring data.

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AFRICANewsUKWorld

British Runner Russ Cook Conquers Africa: Completes Epic Journey from South to North in 352 Days

by Times
written by Times

Russ Cook, the intrepid runner, has successfully reached the northernmost point of Africa after nearly a year since embarking on his ambitious journey from the continent’s southern tip.

Amidst a backdrop of rocky terrain alongside the Mediterranean in northern Tunisia, Cook was met with enthusiastic cheers from a crowd of supporters who had gathered to witness his remarkable accomplishment.

Having traversed over 16,000 kilometers (approximately 9,940 miles) spanning across 16 different countries in 352 days, Cook is believed to be the first individual to achieve such a feat.

Expressing his weariness, albeit modestly, Cook acknowledged, “I’m a little bit tired,” which hardly captures the magnitude of his physical and mental exertion throughout the journey.

The 27-year-old endurance athlete, hailing from Worthing in southern England and affectionately known as “Hardest Geezer” on social media, embarked on his epic journey from Cape Agulhas in South Africa on April 22, 2023.

His goal was to complete the expedition in 240 days, averaging more than a marathon’s distance daily.

However, Cook encountered numerous obstacles along the way, including a harrowing gunpoint robbery in Angola where he and his team lost money, passports, and equipment.

In Nigeria, he faced a setback due to back pain, and his progress was nearly thwarted by visa complications in Algeria, only resolved through diplomatic intervention from the Algerian embassy in the UK.

For Cook, whose personal struggles with mental health have been mitigated through running, this journey adds to his list of remarkable achievements, having previously run approximately 3,000 kilometers (around 1,860 miles) from Istanbul to Worthing in 68 days.

Beyond personal triumph, Cook’s African run has raised over £690,000 (approximately $870,000) for two charitable organizations: The Running Charity, which supports homeless youth, and Sandblast, aiding displaced individuals from Western Sahara.

Reflecting on his arduous journey, Cook expressed gratitude for the support from his loved ones and the camaraderie of fellow runners who joined him for the final stretch.

Despite enduring physical pain, he remained resilient, remarking, “My body is in a lot of pain. But one more day, I’m not about to complain.”

As he looked forward to celebrating his accomplishment with a beach party featuring a performance by British band Soft Play and indulging in strawberry daiquiris, Cook’s journey stands as a testament to human endurance and compassion.

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AFRICANews

IMF Expands Egypt’s Financial Assistance Package to $8 Billion Amid Macroeconomic Challenges

by Jordan Luke
written by Jordan Luke

Egypt’s economic prospects receive a significant boost as the International Monetary Fund’s executive board approves an expansion of the Extended Fund Facility arrangement from its initial $3 billion to $8 billion, as reported by Bloomberg.

This development paves the way for an immediate disbursement of $820 million, aiming to address the pressing macroeconomic challenges facing Egypt. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva emphasized the complexity of managing these challenges amidst spillovers from recent conflicts in Gaza and Israel.

Georgieva highlighted the significance of recent measures taken by Egypt to address macroeconomic imbalances, such as exchange rate unification, clearing the foreign exchange demand backlog, and implementing rigorous monetary and fiscal policies. These steps, though difficult, are deemed crucial for Egypt’s economic progress, according to Georgieva.

Egypt’s new IMF agreement, announced on March 6, follows the implementation of a long-awaited currency flotation, resulting in a significant depreciation of the pound against the dollar. This move was supported by a $35 billion deal with the United Arab Emirates, marking the largest inward investment in Egypt’s history.

Geopolitical conflicts, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the Gaza crisis, have further strained Egypt’s economy. Increased wheat and oil import prices and reduced tourism and shipping through the Suez Canal have impacted foreign currency reserves.

With Egypt ranking as the IMF’s second-biggest borrower after Argentina, additional financing of $1.2 billion is anticipated from the lender. The devaluation, coupled with ongoing economic reforms, has attracted investors to Egypt’s local bonds, driving unprecedented levels of investment into the country.

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AFRICACrime & JusticeFeaturedFeaturedNews

Binance Executive Escapes Custody Amid Nigerian Cryptocurrency Exchange Investigation

by Times
written by Times

A high-ranking executive of the cryptocurrency exchange Binance has reportedly fled custody in Nigeria as authorities intensify a criminal investigation into the platform’s alleged involvement in money laundering activities.

Nadeem Anjarwalla, Binance’s regional manager for Africa, managed to escape Nigerian custody using a smuggled passport, according to statements from Nigeria’s National Security Adviser’s office on Monday.

Nigeria, known for having Africa’s largest cryptocurrency economy by trade volume, has been grappling with soaring inflation and a devaluing local currency, leading many citizens to turn to cryptocurrencies for financial transactions.

Zakari Mijinyawa, a spokesperson for Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, announced that the personnel responsible for Anjarwalla’s custody have been apprehended, and investigations are underway to determine the circumstances surrounding his escape.

Anjarwalla’s escape came to light after the Abuja-based Premium Times newspaper reported that he fled from a guest house in the capital city, taking advantage of a momentary lapse in surveillance while being allowed entry to a nearby mosque for prayers.

Anjarwalla, who holds British and Kenyan citizenship, was initially detained alongside a colleague, Tigran Gambaryan, a US citizen, on February 26 during Nigeria’s crackdown on Binance.

While Anjarwalla managed to evade custody, Gambaryan remains in detention. Both executives were scheduled to appear in court on April 4 as part of the ongoing legal proceedings.

Binance, reacting to the investigation and accusations of money laundering and terrorism financing, halted trading with the Nigerian naira currency on its platform in early March. However, authorities have yet to present evidence publicly to substantiate these claims.

In addition to the money laundering allegations, Nigeria’s tax agency has levied a four-count charge against Binance for tax evasion and complicity in facilitating customers’ tax evasion through its platform.

The escape of the Binance executive has added a new dimension to the legal saga surrounding cryptocurrency exchanges in Nigeria, prompting intensified scrutiny and efforts to address regulatory concerns in the country’s crypto ecosystem.

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AFRICAFeaturedFeaturedNews

Bassirou Diomaye Faye: From Prison to Presidency in Senegal’s Political Drama

by Times
written by Times

Bassirou Diomaye Faye, once a relatively unknown figure outside his opposition party Pastef, has emerged as Senegal’s next president.

His journey from a prison cell to the highest office in the country reflects the twists and turns of Senegal’s political landscape.

Faye’s rise to prominence began when Ousmane Sonko, the firebrand leader of Pastef, was detained and charged with insurrection, effectively sidelining him from the presidential race to succeed President Macky Sall.

This development paved the way for Faye to step into the spotlight and eventually claim victory in the election, coincidentally on his 44th birthday.

Unlike Sonko, known for his charisma and appeal to disillusioned youths, Faye brings a more reserved demeanor to the political stage. However, Sonko’s endorsement of Faye played a crucial role in consolidating support within Pastef despite a less emotive endorsement compared to Sonko’s usual passionate rhetoric.

Faye’s background as a tax inspector and his academic achievements, including a law degree and a master’s from Dakar’s Cheikh Anta Diop University, add depth to his profile.

Despite facing legal challenges and spending time in prison, Faye remained steadfast in his political aspirations, ultimately gaining traction among voters.

The coalition formed around Faye’s candidacy, including over 100 parties and key figures like former prime minister Aminata Toure, contributed significantly to his electoral success.

The slogan “Diomaye mooy Sonko” (“Diomaye is Sonko” in Wolof) encapsulated the unity within the opposition movement rallying behind Faye.

The recent general amnesty law, aimed at easing political tensions, saw Faye and Sonko released from prison, symbolizing a new chapter in Senegal’s political narrative.

Faye’s campaign, marked by enthusiastic rallies and widespread support, resonated with voters looking for change and integrity in leadership.

As Faye prepares to assume the presidency, questions linger about the role Sonko might play in the new government. Faye, however, remains focused on leading a coalition-driven administration, emphasizing that in a presidential election, only one person emerges as the president, signaling his intent to chart an independent course for Senegal’s future.

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AFRICAEast AfricaNewsParliament

Ghanaian Parliament Passes Bill Criminalizing L.G.B.T.Q. Identities and Advocacy

by Times
written by Times

Ghana’s Parliament approved a bill on Wednesday that imposes jail terms on individuals who identify as L.G.B.T.Q. or engage in organizing gay advocacy groups. The legislation, among the harshest on the African continent, awaits President Nana Akufo-Addo’s signature to become law.

Under the proposed law, individuals convicted of identifying as gay could face up to three years in jail, while those involved in promoting L.G.B.T.Q. issues could be sentenced to five years.

Moreover, engaging in gay sex would carry a penalty of five years, an increase from the previous three years stipulated by earlier legislation.

This bill aligns with a broader trend of anti-L.G.B.T.Q. legislation sweeping across Africa. Countries such as Tanzania, Niger, and Namibia have recently enacted stricter laws, while Uganda’s anti-gay legislation, which includes the death penalty, remains in force.

Amnesty International has raised concerns about the legislation, highlighting that 31 countries in Africa already criminalize consensual same-sex activity. The organization warns of a surge in homophobic attitudes and rhetoric across the continent.

Linda Nduri, a campaign manager for Africa at the nonprofit organization All Out, noted the persistent stigma against L.G.B.T.Q. individuals in many African countries, where being L.G.B.T.Q. is often perceived as evil or un-African.

While both major political parties in Ghana support the bill, debates within Parliament have centered on its severity.

Alexander Afenyo-Markin, a member of the governing New Patriotic Party, proposed amendments to mitigate the bill’s harshness by suggesting alternatives to jail terms, such as counseling and community service. However, his proposals were met with opposition from colleagues advocating for strict penalties.

According to NewYork Times, the bill has garnered widespread public support and enjoys backing from religious and traditional leaders in Ghana. However, human rights organizations argue that it violates constitutional rights, including the right to equality and freedom from discrimination based on sex or gender.

Michael Akagbor, a senior program officer at the Center for Democratic Development, emphasized that legal challenges against the legislation are underway in Ghana’s Supreme Court. He expressed disbelief at the passage of such a bill in a democratic society like Ghana but remains hopeful that legal avenues will prevent its implementation.

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AFRICAEast AfricaEnergyFeaturedFeaturedNews

Tayebwa Urges Africa to Stand Against Unfair EU Energy Transition Deal

by Times
written by Times

LUANDA, ANGOLA – Thomas Tayebwa, Uganda’s Deputy Speaker of Parliament, is calling on leaders across Africa to reject what he perceives as an unjust proposition by the European Union (EU), which imposes hefty penalties on Africa for climate change, despite the continent being the lowest emitter.

“We must demand a transition that is fair and equitable, not one that is hastily imposed,” stated Tayebwa, who recently assumed the role of representing East Africa to the Organization of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS), the European Union General Assembly.

Addressing the 64th session of the OACPS Parliamentary Assembly and Constitutive Sessions of the OACPS-EU Joint Parliamentary Assemblies in Luanda, Angola, Tayebwa emphasized that Africa should not be coerced into abandoning fossil fuels without a well-negotiated transition plan.

“Africa should not be pressured to relinquish fossil fuels, especially when these resources played a significant role in the development of Europe. It’s unacceptable for Uganda, which is just beginning to explore its oil reserves, to be told not to exploit them,” he argued.

Tayebwa urged African Parliament members to reject such proposals and advocate for a transition to clean energy that is fair and just. He emphasized the need for developed countries to contribute more to fund the transition, citing estimates of $25 billion per year until 2030.

“Africa hosts 60% of the world’s solar resources, yet only 1% of global solar installations are on the continent. It’s time for the European Union to invest more in affordable solar energy in Africa,” Tayebwa emphasized, echoing the sentiments of many in the global south.

Furthermore, Tayebwa called on the European Union to cease the exportation of counterfeit electrical accessories to Africa, stressing the continent’s need for quality and sustainable products.

Verner Ayukegba, Senior Vice-President of the African Energy Chambers, highlighted the dire energy situation in Africa, where over 600 million people lack reliable or affordable energy, with an additional 900 million lacking access to clean cooking fuels, primarily women and children.

In response, Marc Angel, Vice President of the European Parliament, affirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Africa’s energy needs, pledging up to Euros 20 billion to deploy renewable energy and provide electricity access to at least 100 million people by 2030.

The EU’s initiatives aim to enhance regional connectivity through interconnectors and support the construction and rehabilitation of hydroelectric power plants, such as the Nalubaale-Kiira dam in Uganda.

Michael Gahler, a Member of the European Parliament, stressed the importance of finding common ground between African and EU investors in implementing clean energy transition proposals.

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AFRICAFeaturedNewsUGANDAUnited Nations

Minister Betty Amongi Defends Uganda’s Stance on Homosexuality at UN Assembly in New York

by Times
written by Times

The Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, Hon. Betty Amongi Akena, stood firm yesterday at the UN Headquarters in New York, reiterating Uganda’s position on homosexuality. In a meeting with a lobbyist group advocating for LGBTQ rights, Minister Amongi defended Uganda’s stance, as well as that of G77+China and NAM member states.

During the meeting, Minister Amongi emphasized Uganda’s cultural and conservation context, aligning with many other countries in NAM and G77+China. She highlighted the strong belief in the importance of family within the context of religious beliefs and culture, shaping the national perspective on the issue.

Moreover, Minister Amongi underscored the principle of democracy, stating that each country must subject ideological debates such as homosexuality to its people. She noted that the majority of the population in countries she represents at the meeting have legal regimes outlawing same-sex marriage.

Addressing concerns about LGBTQ advocacy efforts, Minister Amongi expressed reservations about the movement’s methods, accusing them of indoctrination and recruitment of vulnerable youth with promises of financial incentives and resettlement abroad. She asserted that such practices undermine the principle of mutual respect.

Highlighting the global debate on homosexuality, Minister Amongi pointed out that the issue remains contentious even in the USA, where over 200 anti-LGBTQ laws have been proposed in more than 20 states. She urged the delegation to focus on issues that unite all United Nations member states, rather than divisive topics.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties engaging in constructive dialogue. This morning, Minister Amongi is scheduled to address delegates on the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 2030 of the United Nations, further emphasizing Uganda’s commitment to global development initiatives.

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