Sahel Nations Forge New Biometric Passports as Alliance Solidifies Against ECOWAS and Former Colonial Powers

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are set to unveil new biometric passports, a move signaling their deepening regional integration and departure from past affiliations. Colonel Assimi Goita of Mali’s ruling junta announced this groundbreaking development in a televised address, marking a bold step as these military-led nations forge a unified path away from their historical colonial ties and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The trio of nations, all governed by military regimes following a series of coups since 2020, have increasingly aligned themselves against Western influences, notably severing ties with their former colonial ruler, France. This strategic pivot toward Russia, alongside their joint formation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in September 2023, has set the stage for a new era of regional cooperation and autonomy.

The launch of the biometric passports, scheduled for imminent release, aims to streamline travel and enhance security within this newly formed bloc. “In the coming days, a new biometric passport of the AES will be put into circulation with the aim of harmonizing travel documents in our common area,” Goita stated. This move reflects a concerted effort to bolster regional connectivity and streamline administrative processes amidst ongoing instability.

The biometric passports symbolize more than just a logistical upgrade; they represent a significant shift in the political and economic dynamics of the Sahel. With the Confederation of Sahel States set to commence under Mali’s chairmanship, this coalition of approximately 72 million people is poised to challenge the existing regional order. The AES’s decision to distance itself from ECOWAS, accusing it of being a tool for French manipulation, underscores a dramatic reorientation of alliances and priorities.

The Sahel nations are grappling with severe security challenges, as jihadi violence has ravaged northern Mali since 2012 and subsequently spread to Niger and Burkina Faso. The conflict has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions, exacerbating the need for cohesive regional strategies and infrastructure development. Goita’s address highlighted plans to enhance transport, communications, and information technology networks, reflecting a broader ambition to stabilize and unify the region.

As these Sahelian countries prepare to commemorate the first anniversary of their alliance, the introduction of biometric passports marks a critical milestone in their quest for regional solidarity and self-determination. The implications of this new passport system extend beyond administrative convenience; they signal a transformative shift in how these nations are positioning themselves on the global stage, seeking to consolidate power and influence while navigating a complex landscape of internal and external pressures.

Ethiopian Airlines’ Unwavering Commitment to Excellence Shines at Africa Tourism Leadership Forum

In a moment of resounding triumph for Ethiopian Airlines, the airline has been honored with the prestigious ‘Outstanding Tourism Transportation Award’ at the 2024 Africa Tourism Leadership Forum (ATLF) held in Gaborone, Botswana. This accolade is more than a mere trophy; it’s a testament to Ethiopian Airlines’ exceptional commitment to enhancing tourism across Africa through unparalleled service and sustainability.

The award, a pinnacle of recognition within the African tourism industry, celebrates organizations that excel in delivering top-notch service to travelers while maintaining strong sustainability and environmental credentials. Ethiopian Airlines’ win highlights its status as a paragon of reliability and efficiency in transportation, serving even the continent’s most remote and sought-after tourism destinations.

“We are immensely honored to receive this prestigious award,” declared Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines. His statement was not just an expression of pride but a reflection of the airline’s deep-rooted commitment to both superior service and sustainable tourism. “This recognition validates our unwavering dedication to offering the highest quality of service and fostering sustainable tourism across Africa. As the largest network operator in Africa, our vision has always been to bridge Africa with the world and vice versa. This award from ATLF motivates us to elevate our standards even further.”

The Africa Tourism Leadership Forum, a vital Pan-African platform, plays a crucial role in fostering dialogue among key players in Africa’s travel, tourism, hospitality, and aviation sectors. It provides a stage for networking, exchanging insights, and developing strategies to enhance intra-continental travel and tourism, thereby reinforcing the brand value of “Destination Africa.”

Ethiopian Airlines’ accolade is a nod to its groundbreaking efforts in promoting tourism across the continent. Through its subsidiary, Ethiopian Holidays, the airline offers a comprehensive array of travel packages seamlessly integrated with its expansive network of destinations. This strategic synergy between tourism and air transport underscores Ethiopian Airlines’ role as a driving force in the African travel industry.

The ATLF Awards, notable for being the first Pan-African accolades dedicated to recognizing African-driven innovation and excellence in travel and tourism, place Ethiopian Airlines at the forefront of transformative initiatives within the sector. The airline’s win is not just a personal victory but a milestone for African aviation as a whole, showcasing the continent’s growing influence on the global stage.

As Ethiopian Airlines continues to soar to new heights, this award stands as a testament to its pioneering spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence. The airline’s achievement at the ATLF not only underscores its dedication to enhancing travel experiences across Africa but also sets a benchmark for the industry, inviting others to follow in its trailblazing footsteps.

As China Expands Military Cooperation, US Reassesses Its Strategy on the Continent 

The competition between the United States and China for military influence in Africa has intensified, with China recently announcing a $140 million initiative to train 6,000 military personnel across the continent. This move marks a significant escalation in China’s efforts to bolster its presence and influence in Africa, a region increasingly pivotal in global strategic calculations.

At a recent summit on China-Africa cooperation, Chinese President Xi Jinping unveiled the plan to train 6,000 military personnel and invite 500 African officers to China. This pledge is seen as a direct and substantial commitment, reflecting a strategic shift in Beijing’s approach to military cooperation on the continent.

Lauren Johnston, an associate professor of China studies at the University of Sydney, described this year’s pledge as the “most explicit” China has made. “This year’s military pledge was by far the most measured and direct,” Johnston told VOA, highlighting its significance in the broader context of China’s engagement with Africa.

China’s involvement in Africa has included participating in UN peacekeeping missions, joint military drills, and offering training and education to African officers. The new initiative represents an expansion of these activities, reinforcing China’s growing role in regional security dynamics.

In response to China’s expanding influence, the U.S. has faced challenges of its own. Earlier this year, the U.S. military was compelled to withdraw from its base in Niger following demands from the local junta. Since then, the U.S. has been working to reassess its military strategy and partnerships in West Africa, engaging with countries like Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Benin to recalibrate its presence.

General Michael Langley, commander of U.S.-Africa Command (AFRICOM), emphasized that the U.S. approach is focused on supporting African-led initiatives rather than dictating terms. “We don’t give them an ultimatum of who to choose for a security partner,” Langley said, stressing a collaborative and supportive stance.

Darren Olivier, director of the African Defense Review, noted that the U.S. is working to rebuild trust and support following recent setbacks. “General Langley’s tour is not just about new cooperation agreements but also about reinforcing a message of listening first and advising second,” Olivier said.

China’s military expansion in Africa is part of a broader strategy to strengthen long-term relationships with the continent’s future leaders. Jana de Kluiver from the Institute for Security Studies in South Africa highlighted that the training of 6,000 military personnel could result in a generation of African leaders who are favorably disposed toward China.

China’s Global Security Initiative (GSI), launched in 2022, is designed to offer an alternative to the U.S.-led security framework and emphasize non-interference. “As Chinese economic interests expand, a stable security environment is crucial,” de Kluiver noted, adding that China aims to avoid appearing overly assertive compared to Western interventionism.

The increasing presence of Chinese military training could create complexities for African countries that have traditionally relied on Western support. Darren Olivier pointed out that if African nations opt for Chinese training, they may face challenges integrating units trained by different countries, leading to potential doctrinal and operational inconsistencies.

China’s approach, often presented as a no-strings-attached partnership, contrasts with Western concerns about human rights violations, which may influence some African countries to seek Chinese assistance instead.

Washington has also expressed concern over China’s potential plans to establish a permanent military base in West Africa. China’s existing base in Djibouti and rumored discussions for a new base in Equatorial Guinea have heightened U.S. apprehensions about strategic balance.

In response, the U.S. is reportedly preparing a $5 million security package for Gabon, including special forces training, to counter China’s influence and prevent the establishment of a Chinese base in the region.

The rivalry between the U.S. and China for military influence in Africa is set to shape the continent’s security landscape in the coming years. As China expands its military footprint with significant investments and training programs, the U.S. is reassessing its strategy and strengthening partnerships to maintain its influence. The evolving dynamics reflect broader geopolitical trends and the increasing importance of Africa in global strategic calculations.

Americans Among 37 Defendants Sentenced by Military Court for May Coup Attempt

Three U.S. citizens have been sentenced to death by a military court for their involvement in a failed coup attempt earlier this year. The verdict, which has drawn international attention, involves a total of 37 defendants.

The coup attempt occurred on May 19, when armed men briefly occupied an office of the presidency in Kinshasa. The leader of the group, Christian Malanga, a U.S.-based Congolese politician, was killed by security forces during the incident. His son, Marcel Malanga, along with his friend Tyler Thompson and business associate Benjamin Zalman-Polun, were among those sentenced.

The three Americans, who were found guilty of criminal conspiracy, terrorism, and other charges, were sentenced to death in a ruling that was broadcast live on television. Marcel Malanga, Tyler Thompson, and Benjamin Zalman-Polun were implicated in the failed coup attempt and are among a larger group of 50 defendants.

The trial, which began in July, concluded with the sentencing of 37 defendants. The proceedings took place in the yard of Ndolo military prison, with the defendants seated in front of the judge in prison-issued attire.

Marcel Malanga, who testified that his father had threatened him into participating in the coup, claimed that his involvement was coerced. This was his first visit to Congo in years, prompted by his father’s invitation. Tyler Thompson, a high school friend of Malanga, and Benjamin Zalman-Polun, a business associate of Christian Malanga, were also found guilty and sentenced.

In response to the verdict, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller confirmed that embassy staff had attended the trial and would continue to monitor the situation. Miller noted that the legal process in the DRC allows for appeals, providing a potential avenue for the defendants to challenge the court’s decision.

The trial has sparked various reactions. Jean-Jacques Wondo, a Belgian-Congolese citizen sentenced alongside the Americans, had his family appeal directly to President Felix Tshisekedi for his release, asserting his innocence through video messages.

Marcel Malanga’s mother, Brittney Sawyer, and Tyler Thompson’s stepmother, Miranda Thompson, have both publicly maintained their loved ones’ innocence. Sawyer has described her son as innocent, while Thompson’s stepmother mentioned that Thompson had traveled to Congo for what he described as a vacation.

The sentencing of the three U.S. citizens marks a significant moment in the aftermath of the failed coup attempt in Congo. The case has attracted international scrutiny and highlighted ongoing concerns about the legal process and human rights within the DRC. As the defendants await potential appeals, the situation remains fluid, with ongoing attention from both diplomatic channels and human rights advocates.

South Sudan Delays Elections to 2026 Amidst Ongoing Challenges and Criticisms

South Sudan has announced a two-year postponement of its elections originally scheduled for December 2024, citing the need to complete essential preparatory processes, including a national census, drafting a permanent constitution, and registering political parties. The new election date is set for December 22, 2026.

Presidential Adviser on National Security Tut Gatluak confirmed the extension, emphasizing that it will allow for the completion of critical processes necessary for a successful election. This decision marks the second delay since South Sudan’s independence in 2011 and extends the transitional period that began in February 2020.

The postponement follows recommendations from electoral institutions and the security sector. Cabinet Affairs Minister Martin Elia Lomuro supported the delay, citing the need for thorough preparations to ensure the elections’ credibility.

South Sudan has faced significant challenges, including a severe economic crisis and ongoing instability. The country’s oil exports have been disrupted by a damaged pipeline in neighboring Sudan, exacerbating the economic difficulties. This has led to unpaid civil servants and strained resources.

Professor Abednego Akok, Chairperson of the National Election Commission, noted last month that voter registration had not yet commenced due to funding shortages. The Tumaini initiative peace talks in neighboring Kenya, aimed at including non-signatory groups in the peace process, have also stalled, adding to the uncertainty.

The extension has sparked a range of reactions. Andrea Mach Mabior, an independent political analyst, warned that conducting elections that fail to meet international standards would be a waste of resources and could lead to further instability.

“Going for elections that do not meet international standards will be a waste of money,” Mabior told The Associated Press.

Conversely, Edmund Yakani, executive director of the Community Empowerment Progress Organization, expressed concern that any delay beyond December 2024 could increase the risk of violence. He argued that timely elections could help avert further unrest.

“If we fail to conduct the elections in December 2024, the chance of the country turning into violence is higher than if we go for the elections,” Yakani said in August.

South Sudan’s ongoing crises have led to a dire humanitarian situation, with an estimated 9 million people—73% of the population—projected to need humanitarian assistance in 2024, according to the UN Humanitarian Needs Overview for South Sudan. The country continues to grapple with the aftermath of civil war, climate change, and economic hardships, which further complicate the electoral process and overall stability.

South Sudan’s decision to postpone its elections reflects the complex challenges facing the country as it navigates a turbulent transition period. While the delay aims to address critical preparatory needs, it also raises concerns about potential instability and the future of the peace process. As South Sudan continues to confront severe economic and humanitarian issues, the international community will be watching closely to see how these developments unfold and impact the nation’s path toward sustainable peace and democracy.

Leaders Address Support for Ukraine and Israel Amid Tensions and Policy Shifts

On Friday, U.S. President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer held a pivotal meeting at the White House to discuss critical global issues, including support for Ukraine and Israel, and security in the Indo-Pacific region.

During the meeting, Biden reiterated the United States’ commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. “The United States is committed to standing with you to help Ukraine as it defends against Russia’s onslaught of aggression. It’s clear that Putin will not prevail in this war,” Biden told Starmer.

The discussion comes at a time when there is ongoing debate among Western allies about whether to modify policies to allow Ukraine to use long-range weapons against targets within Russian territory. Earlier this week, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and U.K. Foreign Secretary David Lammy visited Kyiv, where Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy advocated for the deployment of American ATACMS and British Storm Shadow missiles for deeper strikes into Russia.

While Biden has signaled openness to further policy adjustments, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby noted that there has been no official change in U.S. policy on Ukraine’s long-range strike capabilities. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin also remarked that Ukraine has already used its own systems for cross-border attacks and that additional long-range capabilities may not be decisive.

The leaders also addressed the ongoing conflict in Gaza between Israel and Hamas. Biden emphasized the need to secure a cease-fire, release hostages, and increase humanitarian aid to Gaza.

In a significant development, the U.K. government has suspended about 30 licenses for arms exports to Israel following a review of Israel’s adherence to international humanitarian law. This move contrasts with the Biden administration’s stance, which has resisted calls for a broader arms embargo on Israel. The U.K.’s arms exports to Israel remain relatively small, valued at approximately $24 million in 2023.

Biden and Starmer expressed concerns about Iran’s involvement in the Middle East conflict and its alleged supply of short-range ballistic missiles to Russia for use against Ukraine. They also discussed China’s support for Russia’s defense industry.

This meeting marks the second in-person engagement between Biden and Starmer since the latter took office. The leaders underscored the strategic alignment of their countries and their shared commitment to addressing global challenges. Starmer’s visit reflects a desire to reset and strengthen relations with key allies following a period of political instability in the U.K.

As the U.S. approaches its next presidential election, there are concerns in Europe about the future of transatlantic relations, particularly regarding support for Ukraine should former President Donald Trump, who has expressed skepticism about NATO, win the election.

The discussions between Biden and Starmer highlight the complexities of international diplomacy as both leaders navigate significant global issues, from the conflict in Ukraine and Gaza to concerns over Iran and North Korea. The outcome of their deliberations will likely impact international relations and security dynamics in the coming months.

The Truth Behind China’s ‘Aid’ to Africa: Debunking Misinformation

China recently hosted an influential summit in Beijing, attended by fifty African leaders, including twenty heads of state. The gathering aimed to address Africa’s burgeoning debt crisis, with nations like Angola, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Zambia hoping for financial reprieve. Chinese President Xi Jinping promised nearly $51 billion in investments and the creation of a million jobs over the next three years. Yet, the critical debt relief so desperately needed by these struggling African countries was conspicuously absent.

Critics of China’s approach to Africa often accuse it of engaging in “debt trap diplomacy,” a strategy where large loans are extended to poorer countries, only to be repaid through valuable assets if these nations default. This tactic has been the subject of intense scrutiny and debate, especially as it becomes clear that China’s influence in Africa extends beyond mere economic aid.

Amidst this backdrop, Fikrejesus Amahazion, an Eritrean educator and pro-China advocate, has defended China’s role, suggesting that Western criticism is simply a facade for their own geopolitical agendas. According to Amahazion, China’s investments are beneficial and aimed at alleviating poverty in Africa. He dismisses concerns about exploitation as Western “malicious propaganda.”

However, this narrative is increasingly difficult to sustain when weighed against the mounting evidence of China’s exploitative practices. For instance, reports highlight that Chinese companies are deeply entrenched in Africa’s natural resources sector, including the notorious cobalt mines of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Here, around 40,000 children—some as young as six—labor under dire conditions, mining cobalt crucial for global electronics. These mines are predominantly owned by Chinese government-linked firms, yet this harrowing reality is seldom acknowledged by pro-China voices.

Moreover, the U.S. Department of Labor has condemned these practices, labeling them as some of the worst forms of child labor globally. In addition, the U.S. Environmental Investigation Agency has exposed how China’s involvement in illegal logging in Mozambique has fueled insurgencies and corruption, with these illicit activities funding violent groups and further destabilizing the region.

China’s alleged “debt trap diplomacy” is vividly illustrated by its dealings with Zambia. The Zambian government, in dire financial straits, turned to China for a $40,000 loan to upgrade its state broadcaster. In return, Chinese company StarTimes gained a 60% stake in the broadcaster, leaving Zambia with just 40%. The situation is similarly grim in Zambia’s mining sector, where Chinese companies control 88% of the country’s copper fields. Zambia’s struggle with debt has reached a crisis point, with the nation owing at least $6.1 billion to China and becoming the first to default on a Chinese loan in 2020.

Kenya faces a parallel predicament, burdened with $6.7 billion in Chinese debt. The strain has led to significant unrest, with Generation-Z Kenyans protesting a proposed financial bill that would have imposed severe taxes to manage the debt load.

As China continues to champion its relationship with Africa, it becomes increasingly apparent that the reality of its involvement is far from the benevolent narrative presented by its defenders. The true impact of China’s financial and strategic maneuvers in Africa reveals a complex and troubling picture of exploitation, debt, and control—far removed from the rosy portrayal by those like Amahazion.

From Germany to France and Spain, a growing faction of young voters are gravitating towards far-right ideologies, challenging established political norms across Europe.

Generation Z is increasingly drawn to far-right parties, signaling a dramatic realignment in the continent’s political landscape. The rise of far-right sentiment among young voters is making headlines, with startling developments emerging from Germany, France, and Spain.

In Germany, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is riding a wave of youthful enthusiasm as it gears up for the Brandenburg state election on September 22. After a landmark victory in Thuringia, where AfD secured a historic 32.8% of the vote—surpassing traditional parties like the Christian Democrats—the party is eyeing a similar success in Brandenburg. What’s fueling this surge? According to Ben Ansell, an Oxford professor and host of “What’s Wrong with Democracy?”, it’s clear: the AfD’s allure is strong among young voters, with nearly 40% of 18- to 29-year-olds backing the party, a stark contrast to the mere 20% support from those over 70.

“The perception that AfD is only popular among the older generation is fundamentally flawed,” asserts Hans-Christoph Berndt, AfD’s chairman in Brandenburg. “Young people are deeply invested in our vision for the future.”

The factors driving this shift are multifaceted. Ansell highlights economic anxieties, concerns over immigration, and disillusionment with the status quo as key motivators. Eastern Germany’s relative poverty and less ethnic diversity create a backdrop where new diversity can be unsettling, fueling the far-right’s message. Additionally, challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the housing crisis, and uncertain job prospects are shaping young voters’ discontent.

But the trend isn’t confined to Germany. In France, the far-right National Rally, led by 28-year-old Jordan Bardella, has captivated the 18-34 age group, securing 32% of their votes in the June European elections. Bardella’s social media prowess, particularly on TikTok, where short, provocative videos resonate with young voters, exemplifies how far-right parties are exploiting modern platforms to amplify their message.

Spain also reflects this troubling trend. A recent study by El País revealed that a quarter of Spanish men aged 18 to 26—dubbed Generation Z—view authoritarianism as preferable under certain conditions. This contrasts sharply with the under-10% of baby boomers who share this view, highlighting a generational divide in political attitudes. Interestingly, this preference for authoritarianism is less pronounced among young women, echoing a broader global pattern where young men are more susceptible to extremist rhetoric.

The implications of these shifts are profound. The rise of far-right ideologies among youth raises questions about the future of European democracies and whether similar patterns could emerge in other democracies, such as the United States. With upcoming presidential elections, the focus is on whether U.S. youth will echo these European trends or chart their own path.

As European political dynamics evolve, the role of Generation Z in shaping future governance remains a critical and contentious issue. With far-right parties capitalizing on young voters’ frustrations and anxieties, the coming years will reveal whether this wave of support represents a fleeting trend or a new political reality.