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.

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.

Tehran Condemns Sanctions and Accusations as Western Nations Issue Joint Response 

Iran’s government has taken a firm stance in response to accusations from European nations regarding its alleged supply of missiles to Russia. On Thursday, Tehran summoned the envoys from Britain, France, Germany, and the Netherlands to address these claims and express its condemnation.

According to state-run IRNA news agency, Iran’s Foreign Ministry separately summoned the four European envoys to strongly reject accusations that Tehran had provided short-range ballistic missiles to Russia for use in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The ministry criticized the joint statement issued by Britain, France, and Germany, calling it an “unconventional and non-constructive statement.”

The joint statement, released on Tuesday, denounced the alleged missile transfer as an “escalation by both Iran and Russia” and a “direct threat to European security.” It also introduced new sanctions against Iran, including the cancellation of air service agreements with Iran, which will restrict Iran Air’s operations to the U.K. and Europe.

IRNA reported that the Iranian Foreign Ministry viewed these actions as part of a broader Western strategy of hostility towards Iran. The ministry warned that Iran would respond appropriately to what it perceives as unfounded accusations and punitive measures.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken weighed in on the situation, confirming that Iran had ignored previous warnings about the potential escalation of the conflict. During a visit to London, Blinken stated that Russian military personnel had been trained in Iran to operate the Fath-360 close-range ballistic missile system, which has a maximum range of 120 kilometers.

Blinken’s remarks align with the broader Western condemnation of Iran’s alleged actions, which are viewed as exacerbating the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

The summoning of European envoys and the subsequent condemnation by Iran highlight the growing diplomatic tensions surrounding the conflict in Ukraine. Iran’s strong reaction underscores the sensitive nature of international relations in the context of the ongoing war and the broader geopolitical dynamics.

As Iran and the European countries navigate this diplomatic dispute, the impact on regional security and international relations remains a key concern. The European sanctions and diplomatic measures are likely to influence the interactions between Tehran and Western nations in the coming months.

The diplomatic confrontation between Iran and European countries over the alleged supply of missiles to Russia underscores the escalating tensions surrounding the Ukraine conflict and broader geopolitical rivalries. The European sanctions and Iran’s strong rebuttal reflect the complexities of international diplomacy in a time of heightened global conflict.

New Initiatives Aim to Enhance Security and Build Trust in Border Communities 

The International Organization for Migration (IOM), with support from the Government of Canada, has launched new initiatives aimed at improving community engagement and policing in Wajir County, Kenya. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to foster better relations between border communities and state authorities, enhancing human security and promoting peace in the region.

On Thursday, during a flagging-off ceremony for a roadshow caravan, IOM Representative Soumana Ali emphasized the organization’s dedication to supporting the Kenyan government in strengthening community involvement in border governance. Ali underscored the importance of shifting perceptions of border communities from being seen as challenges to being recognized as integral to solutions for effective border management.

“We, as IOM, are supporting the Government of Kenya in community engagement and policing. These initiatives aim to enhance human security by ensuring the active participation of communities in border governance,” Ali stated.

Wajir East Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) George Onyango expressed his appreciation for the local community’s role in maintaining peace. He highlighted the significant contributions of elders, women, and youth in fostering a peaceful environment in Wajir.

“The peace we enjoy in Wajir is not just because of security forces but largely due to the community’s involvement,” Onyango said, acknowledging the collaborative effort between residents and security agencies.

Onyango noted Wajir’s strategic location near the Somali border and the ongoing challenges in the neighboring country. He emphasized that the stability of Wajir heavily depends on the proactive engagement of its residents.

“Residents are fully engaged in ensuring safety,” he remarked, urging the community to continue their support for local security efforts. Onyango stressed the connection between peace and development, encouraging residents to remain vigilant and report any potential threats, including illegal activities and drug trafficking.

The DCC expressed concern over the impact of drug trafficking on Wajir’s youth, underscoring the importance of safeguarding the next generation. He warned that authorities would not tolerate involvement in the drug trade and emphasized the collective responsibility to protect the town’s future.

The roadshow caravan, a key component of the IOM’s initiative, aims to strengthen collaboration between communities and security agencies. This initiative is designed to build trust, promote safety, and address challenges related to border governance.

Through increased community participation, the IOM and Canadian support seek to foster a more stable and secure environment in Wajir and other border regions. The caravan is part of broader efforts to enhance collaboration, build trust, and promote peace and prosperity for the affected populations.

The partnership between IOM and the Government of Canada in Wajir underscores a commitment to enhancing community engagement and security in border areas. By involving local communities in border governance and addressing critical issues like drug trafficking, these initiatives aim to create a safer, more prosperous environment for Wajir’s residents.

As these efforts continue, the focus remains on strengthening collaboration and ensuring that both security forces and community members work together towards a stable and secure future for Wajir County.

Amidst Regional Tensions, Turkey Eyes Somalia for Space Launchpad—A Move That Could Redefine Geopolitical Dynamics

Turkey’s plan to establish a rocket launch site in Somalia could transform the Horn of Africa’s geopolitical landscape. As regional tensions rise, Ankara’s space ambitions in Somalia raise questions about strategic motivations and international reactions.

Turkey is positioning itself to make a dramatic leap by setting up a rocket launchpad in Somalia. This move comes against a backdrop of increasing regional tensions and signals Turkey’s deepening engagement in the volatile Horn of Africa.

According to a report by Bloomberg, Turkey is in advanced discussions with Somalia to establish a site for missile testing and space rocket launches. The proposed location, on the eastern edge of mainland Africa near the equator, offers a strategic advantage for launching rockets towards the Indian Ocean. The location’s geographical benefits align perfectly with Turkey’s broader space ambitions, which include a $1 billion plan for a soft moon landing by 2028.

This ambitious endeavor is part of a larger strategy announced by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in 2021. The plan involves constructing a spaceport in Somalia, estimated to cost around $350 million, as Turkey seeks to bolster its space capabilities. Turkish officials are reportedly optimistic about securing Somali approval, although neither the Turkish Defense Ministry nor Somali national security advisor Hussein Sheikh-Ali have confirmed the specifics of these discussions.

The proposal has been met with mixed reactions. Abdi Ahmed Koshin, chairman of Somalia’s parliamentary defense subcommittee, expressed surprise at the news, indicating that such discussions were not on his radar. This highlights a possible gap between official knowledge and the rapidly evolving realities of international negotiations.

Turkey’s expanding role in Somalia is a testament to its growing influence in the region. Since Erdogan’s historic visit to Mogadishu in 2011, the relationship between the two nations has flourished. Turkey has established its largest overseas military base in Somalia, a $50 million facility capable of training over 10,000 soldiers. The two countries have also inked several agreements, including recent deals on defense, security cooperation, and offshore energy.

In response to the shifting dynamics, other regional actors like Egypt have taken steps to assert their influence. Egypt’s recent delivery of military equipment to Mogadishu underscores the geopolitical significance of Somalia and its strategic importance in the broader Horn of Africa region.

As Turkey pushes forward with its spaceport ambitions, the implications for regional stability and international relations are profound. The establishment of a Turkish launch site in Somalia could reshape power dynamics and introduce new elements of competition and collaboration in a region already fraught with complexity.

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.