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.

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.

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.

Tragic End for Olympic Marathoner Highlights Alarming Trend of Violence Against Female Athletes

Ugandan Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei has died following a horrific attack by her boyfriend, who doused her in petrol and set her on fire. The 33-year-old athlete, who had competed in the Paris Olympics, succumbed to her injuries on Thursday morning, hospital officials confirmed.

Cheptegei, who was reportedly burned over 75% of her body in the attack, had been receiving treatment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya. Despite medical efforts, her condition deteriorated, and she passed away early on Thursday after her organs failed, according to Owen Menach, the senior director of clinical services at the hospital. A detailed report on the circumstances surrounding her death is expected later today.

The tragic news has reverberated through the sports community, with Donald Rukare, president of the Uganda Olympics Committee, expressing deep sorrow over Cheptegei’s death. “We have learnt of the sad passing on of our Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei… following a vicious attack by her boyfriend,” Rukare said in a post on X. He condemned the act as “cowardly and senseless,” calling for an end to violence against women.

Cheptegei’s death also brings renewed attention to the issue of violence against female athletes in Kenya. Her killing marks the third such tragedy since October 2021. In a similarly shocking incident, Kenyan runner Agnes Tirop was found dead in her home in Iten with multiple stab wounds. Her husband, Ibrahim Rotich, has been charged with her murder and has pleaded not guilty. The case remains under judicial review, and Tirop’s death led to the formation of Tirop’s Angels, a non-profit organization dedicated to combating domestic violence.

Joan Chelimo, one of the founders of Tirop’s Angels, highlighted a grim reality faced by many female athletes. “They get into these traps of predators who pose in their lives as lovers,” Chelimo told Reuters, underscoring the exploitation and violence that female athletes often face.

Ugandan Sports Minister Peter Ogwang labeled Cheptegei’s death as “tragic” and noted that Kenyan authorities are actively investigating the circumstances of her death. As the investigation unfolds, the incident raises crucial questions about the safety and well-being of female athletes who are increasingly becoming victims of violent crimes.

Cheptegei’s death not only mourns the loss of a talented athlete but also serves as a stark reminder of the need for heightened protection and support for women in sports. The sports community and global advocates will be watching closely as justice is sought and efforts are made to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Challenges and Unresolved Issues Lead to Suspension of Service Effective September 3, 2024

Ethiopian Airlines has announced the suspension of its flights to Eritrea, effective September 3, 2024, due to a series of operational and financial challenges. The airline’s CEO, Mesfin Tasew, provided details on the difficulties encountered, explaining that the suspension was a result of unresolved disputes with the Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority.

During a media briefing, Tasew outlined the various issues that led to the decision. He noted that despite Ethiopian Airlines’ efforts to maintain flights to Eritrea over the past six years, the situation had become untenable. The airline had previously operated flights twice a week between Ethiopia and Eritrea, serving numerous customers.

One significant issue mentioned was the freezing of Ethiopian Airlines’ Asmara station revenue account by Eritrean authorities. Tasew reported that the airline had made repeated attempts to address the matter but received no satisfactory explanation from the Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority.

Additionally, Tasew highlighted a complaint received on March 26, 2024, from the Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority concerning delays in customer luggage. The airline requested a list of affected customers to address the issue but did not receive a response.

These unresolved problems, coupled with increasing pressures from the Eritrean authorities, led Ethiopian Airlines to suspend its flights to Asmara. Tasew expressed regret over the decision, acknowledging the inconvenience it would cause to customers. The airline has promised to make alternative arrangements for those who had already booked flights to Asmara and will offer full refunds to affected passengers.

The suspension marks a significant change in travel arrangements between Ethiopia and Eritrea and underscores ongoing operational challenges faced by international airlines operating in the region.

Russia’s strategic move into Africa has evolved from a mere conjecture into a tangible and influential presence. The Kremlin’s engagement on the continent, notably since 2017, marks a significant shift in the global power dynamics, challenging Western influence and reshaping the geopolitical landscape of Africa.

The Russia-Africa summit held in St. Petersburg on July 28, 2023, encapsulated this new reality. Captured vividly in the image of Captain Ibrahim Traoré, the leader of the recent coup in Burkina Faso, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, the event highlighted the deepening ties between Moscow and several African nations. Traoré’s rhetoric, echoing anti-imperialist sentiments, resonated with Putin’s assertive stance against Western dominance. His speech underscored a shared narrative of historical grievances and resistance.

Since 2017, Russia has strategically expanded its footprint in Africa. Countries like Sudan, Niger, Libya, Burkina Faso, Mali, the Central African Republic (CAR), and Madagascar have become focal points of Moscow’s efforts to bolster its influence. This expansion is part of a broader Kremlin strategy aimed at challenging Western hegemony and establishing a foothold in regions traditionally dominated by Western powers.

Russia’s approach has been multifaceted. Militarily, Russia has utilized paramilitary groups like Wagner to solidify its presence and support governments or factions aligned with its interests. The Wagner Group’s operations in several African nations have not only bolstered local regimes but also served as a means to counter Western influence.

Media influence has also played a critical role. Russian state-controlled media and disinformation campaigns have been used to sway public opinion and political narratives in Africa. By portraying itself as an ally against Western imperialism, Russia has managed to gain a foothold in the continent’s political and social spheres.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has accentuated the East-West divide, with Africa becoming a new battleground for influence. Russia’s maneuvers are not merely about expanding its reach but also about strategically positioning itself against Western countries. This rivalry has significant implications for global power dynamics, as African nations become key players in the geopolitical chess game.

Despite its gains, Russia faces challenges in maintaining its influence. The sustainability of its operations and the long-term impact of its strategies remain uncertain. Additionally, there are criticisms of Russia’s approach, particularly concerning the impact on local governance and human rights.

Russia’s increasing influence in Africa represents a fundamental shift in global power dynamics. The Kremlin’s ability to leverage military, political, and media tools to extend its reach into a continent traditionally influenced by Western powers signals a new era of geopolitical confrontation. As this rivalry intensifies, the consequences for both Africa and the broader international community will become increasingly apparent.