West on African Updates

Vote Counting Begins in Guinea After Legislative and Municipal Elections

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Vote counting was underway in Guinea on Monday following legislative and municipal elections seen as an important stage in the country’s ongoing political transition under President Mamadi Doumbouya.

The polls, held across the West African nation on Sunday, were part of efforts to restore constitutional governance after the 2021 military takeover that brought Doumbouya to power.

More than seven million registered voters were eligible to elect 147 members of parliament as well as local municipal representatives in a nationwide ballot closely watched across the region.

Nearly 300 Ghanaians Return Home From South Africa Amid Rising Anti-Immigrant Tensions

Thu, 28 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

ACCRA, Ghana The first group of nearly 300 Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa following a surge in anti-immigrant protests arrived in Accra on Wednesday, as concerns grow over the safety of foreign nationals living in Africa’s most industrialized economy.

The returnees landed at Kotoka International Airport to an emotional reception led by Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, with patriotic music echoing through the arrival terminal.

Ghanaian authorities said about 800 citizens have so far registered for government-assisted repatriation flights from South Africa, citing fears for their safety amid escalating hostility toward migrants.

African Trade Under AfCFTA Expands Rapidly Ahead of US$230 Billion Target by 2027

Mon, 18 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The third edition of Biashara Africa opened on Monday in Lomé, bringing together African leaders, investors, manufacturers and business executives for a three-day conference focused on boosting trade and industrialisation across the continent under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Among the leaders attending the opening ceremony were H.E. Faure Gnassingbé, H.E. Wamkele Mene and former Niger President H.E. Mahamadou Issoufou, alongside delegates from across Africa, the United States and Dubai.

Senegal’s Dr. Malle Fofana Makes History as First African in GGGI Executive Team

Thu, 07 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) has appointed Senegalese expert Dr. Malle Fofana as its new Deputy Executive Director and Head of Green Growth Implementation, marking a major milestone for African leadership in global climate action.

Dr. Fofana becomes the first African to join the GGGI Executive Team, a move seen as a strong step toward giving developing countries a bigger voice in global climate and green growth decisions.

Based in Seoul, Republic of Korea, the appointment follows an international selection process. Dr. Fofana hails from Senegal and brings more than 20 years of experience in climate policy, sustainable development and international cooperation.

Biashara Afrika 2026 Set for Lomé as AfCFTA Pushes Trade Agenda Forward

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The next chapter of Africa’s trade story will unfold from May 18 to May 20, 2026 in Lomé, as leaders, businesses, and innovators gather for Biashara Africa under the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

This edition comes at a decisive moment. AfCFTA is no longer just a vision on paper. It is a system in motion, with real expectations from governments, private sector players, and millions of Africans whose livelihoods depend on trade.

Mali Defence Minister Sadio Camara Killed in Coordinated Attacks

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Mali’s Defence Minister, General Sadio Camara, has been killed during a series of coordinated attacks on military targets across the country, according to an official government statement.

Government spokesperson Issa Ousmane Coulibaly confirmed that Camara died after armed assailants attacked his residence in the garrison town of Kati on Saturday. The attack was part of a wider offensive carried out simultaneously in multiple regions.

Kati, located about 15 kilometres northwest of the capital Bamako, is considered one of Mali’s most secure military strongholds. Despite this, fighters linked to the al-Qaeda-affiliated group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), alongside Tuareg rebels from the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA), managed to breach the area.

Ghana Leads UN Push to Classify Slave Trade as Crime Against Humanity

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Ghana is stepping up its campaign at the United Nations, using both diplomacy and cultural advocacy to call for formal global recognition of the transatlantic slave trade as a crime against humanity.

During remarks in New York, president John Dramani Mahama highlighted that the impact of slavery goes far beyond history, pointing to the systematic dehumanization of Africans as a foundation for inequalities that still exist today. He spoke at a high-level forum centered on reparatory justice.

Guinea-Bissau Military Claims Full Control Amid Election Crisis

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Military officers in Guinea-Bissau announced on Wednesday that they have seized full control of the country, appearing on state television to declare the suspension of national institutions following days of political tension.

In an official statement, the military high command said it had “assumed the full powers of the State of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau.” The officers claimed the takeover was triggered by what they described as “an ongoing plan” to destabilize the nation by attempting to manipulate electoral results from last week’s contentious presidential vote.

Accra: Six Killed in Ghana Military Job Stampede

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A devastating crowd crush at Accra’s El-Wak Sports Stadium claimed the lives of six people and injured dozens more on Wednesday, exposing the desperate lengths young Ghanaians are willing to go for a stable job. The tragedy unfolded during a nationwide recruitment exercise for the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), which had drawn a massive and ultimately fatal turnout.

The stampede erupted in the early hours of Wednesday morning, well before the screening process was set to begin. According to a press release issued by the GAF on their official X (formerly Twitter) platform, the chaotic surge was triggered by an unexpected rush of applicants who overwhelmed the limited security protocols and forced their way through the stadium gates. The statement confirmed that six potential recruits died in the crush, while preliminary reports indicated that as many as 28 others were rushed to the 37 Military Hospital, with a number of them in critical condition.

Cameroon: Protests Erupt in Douala After Paul Biya Declared Winner of Eighth Term

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

For the second consecutive day, residents of Cameroon’s economic capital, Douala, have taken to the streets in protest following the announcement that President Paul Biya has secured a controversial eighth term in office.

Security forces have been heavily deployed across multiple neighborhoods, as demonstrations turned violent amid growing anger over the 92-year-old leader’s re-election.

Reports from the city describe barricades, burning tires, and live gunfire, as clashes broke out between protesters and police. Public transport has been halted, and many businesses remain closed as residents fear further escalation.

Ivory Cost: Tensions Rise as Ouattara Seeks Fourth Term with Key Opposition Leaders Excluded.

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Polling stations are set to open this Saturday in Ivory Coast, but the excitement of a democratic exercise is being eclipsed by mounting political tension. The nation, West Africa’s economic anchor, is bracing for a presidential election widely expected to hand 83-year-old incumbent Alassane Ouattara a controversial fourth term.

The final days of campaigning have seen President Ouattara, in power since 2011, appeal directly to the country’s massive youth demographic. He touts his administration’s strong economic growth and massive infrastructure development, urging young citizens to vote for the candidate committed to their future.

New Fund to Support Small-Scale Farmers in Nigeria

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In a significant step for Africa’s food future, two of the continent’s major financial organizations have joined forces. The Bank of Agriculture (BOA) and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) have made a powerful commitment to help Nigeria’s small-scale farmers. At a recent trade meeting in Algeria, they signed an agreement to create a funding program worth up to US$1 billion. This money is meant to help farmers grow more food and sell it more easily.

22 Killed in Niger Attack as Violence Spreads Across Sahel Region

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

At least 22 people were killed in Niger’s Tillabéri region on Wednesday when armed men riding motorbikes attacked villages, according to local reports. Most of the victims were attending a baptism ceremony.

Witnesses say the gunmen first opened fire during the baptism, killing 15 people on the spot. As they fled, they shot dead another seven people nearby. Authorities in Niamey confirmed the attack but did not share official numbers.

African Farmers Push Agro-Processing to Tackle Hunger at IATF 2025

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The African farmer is moving from subsistence to business. This message came out strongly at the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF 2025) in Algiers, where Agro-processing companies from Malawi and Nigeria presented their work.

The National Bank of Malawi PLC joined the exhibition to show how local banks are backing small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The bank is supporting farmers in rice, tea, macadamia, honey, potatoes, and chili processing.

“We finance the whole value chain, from production to processing and finally to market,” said Mr. Chimweme Chijere, Business Development Manager at National Bank of Malawi. He added that African banks must play a big role in food security by giving farmers access to funds and trade tools.

Rwandan Exhibitors Overcome Packaging Hurdles at IATF 2025 in Algiers

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF 2025) is underway in Algiers, Algeria. The fair started on 4 September and will end on 10 September 2025. It is the 4th edition, bringing together all African countries in one place.

At the previous IATF 2023 held in Cairo, Rwanda faced challenges with packaging. Their products were often more expensive compared to others. This was due to Rwanda’s ban on single-use plastics, which made packaging harder to find.

AfCFTA and Afreximbank Leaders Chart Africa’s Trade Future at IATF2025 in Algiers

Sat, 06 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A fireside chat at the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025) on Saturday brought together two leading voices shaping Africa’s trade landscape; H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, and Prof. Benedict Oramah, outgoing President and Chairman of Afreximbank.

The session, held under the theme “The First Mile to the Future: Reflections on IATF, AfCFTA, and the Power of Partnership,” explored how African partnerships, policy, and finance are driving the continent’s trade transformation.

IATF2025: Algeria Hosts Historic Trade Fair, Pushing Africa's Economic Future

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A new era for Africa’s economy was announced today as leaders, visionaries, and businesses gathered for the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2025. This wasn’t just a business event; it was a symbol of African unity and the big dreams of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The opening ceremony was a lively event, attended by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and the other heads of state including President of Tunisia Kais Saied, President of Tchad Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno , President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania, and President Daniel Chapo of Mozambique. Their presence, along with representatives from other African countries, showed a shared commitment to bringing the continent closer through business. The IATF has become Africa’s main business meeting place, where plans become real partnerships and deals get made.

Mali: 80 Militants Eliminated After Coordinated Attacks

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In a significant counter-terrorism operation, Mali’s armed forces (FAMa) announced they have killed 80 militants linked to al-Qaeda following a series of coordinated assaults on military installations across the country. This robust response comes as Mali continues to grapple with persistent insurgencies, allocating over $1.1 billion for defense in 2024 to bolster its security capabilities.

The large scale attacks, described by officials as “simultaneous and coordinated,” targeted seven towns and cities. These strategic locations are situated near Mali’s sensitive borders with Senegal and Mauritania, highlighting the transnational nature of the militant threat. The Malian army confirmed the successful operation during a special bulletin broadcast on its dedicated television channel, underscoring the severity of the recent attacks and the military’s decisive action.

Africa: Innovating for a Secure and Stable African Future

Wed, 28 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Kigali, Rwanda from 19th - 20th May 2025, leaders and companies focused on safety met in Kigali. AfricanUpdates talked to some of them. Everyone agreed: for Africa to be safer, countries need to make more of their own security gear. They also need to use new tools and work together better.

Africa faces many tough challenges. Today, over 37 million people in Africa have fled their homes because of fighting. Millions more are displaced inside their own countries. Sudan, Congo, and the Sahel region still see lots of trouble. This shows how much more security is needed. Still, some places are quite safe. Rwanda, for example, has made big strides since its past troubles. Countries like Ghana and Botswana are also known for being peaceful.

Kigali Summit Calls for African-Led Security Solutions

Tue, 20 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A high-level gathering convened in Kigali on 19th May, 2025, as the International Security Conference on Africa (ISCA) opened its doors, drawing a diverse and influential audience. The conference is poised to redefine the narrative around African security.

President Paul Kagame declared the forum “long overdue,” emphasizing the need for the continent to chart its own course in peace and security.

The event attracted key figures from across Africa and beyond. Notably, the Secretary-General of La Francophonie joined the assembly, alongside prominent members of security forces, including top-ranking army and police officials. Delegates filled the Kigali Convention Centre, signaling the weight of the issues at hand.

The Role of Accountants in Creating African Value Digitally

Sat, 10 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Friday, on 9th of May 2025, in Kigali, Rwanda, the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR) celebrated the launch of its new building, an event that drew attendees from across the continent who were also present for the Africa Congress of Accountants (ACOA) 2025. Against the backdrop of this milestone, a crucial question took center stage: the pivotal role of accountants in achieving Africa’s aspiration of ‘creating value for Africa,’ and the ways in which ICPAR is championing technology to realize this vision.

Rwanda: Tech, Training, and Growth Highlighted by ACOA Exhibitors

Thu, 08 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The bustling city of Kigali became a central point for the future of African finance as the 8th Africa Congress of Accountants (ACOA) unfolded. With a rising number of individuals pursuing higher education across Africa, the congress provided a vital platform for exhibitors to showcase innovations and build crucial connections within the accountancy sector. The growing demand for skilled financial professionals, driven by economic expansion and increasing regulatory complexity, was evident as companies presented their solutions and visions for the continent.

Over 2,000 Accountants Unite in Rwanda for ACOA 2025

Tue, 06 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

KIGALI, Rwanda Over 2,000 professional accountants and key stakeholders from more than 65 countries have gathered in Kigali for the 8th Africa Congress of Accountants (ACOA). The event, taking place from May 6th to 9th, 2025, at the Kigali Convention Center (KCC), is hosted by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR) in collaboration with the Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA). This landmark event is designed to foster connection, learning, and innovation within the accountancy ecosystem.

Rwanda Welcomes Guinean President for Strengthening Cooperation

Sat, 03 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

On Friday, May 2, 2025, President of The Republic of Rwanda Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame welcomed Guinean President Mamadi Doumbouya and First Lady Lauriane Doumbouya to their farm in Kibugabuga, Bugesera District. This visit underscores the growing friendship and cooperation between Rwanda and Guinea.

President Doumbouya arrived in Kigali on Thursday and engaged with members of the Guinean community in Rwanda on Friday morning. His visit is scheduled to conclude on Saturday.

Unlocking Trade in Landlocked Countries via SEZs and AfCFTA

Sat, 03 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Landlocked countries in Africa, like Rwanda, have historically faced significant hurdles in international trade. Geographic limitations often translate to higher transportation costs, longer transit times, and reduced competitiveness in the global market. However, a new era of opportunity is dawning, fueled by the rise of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). These initiatives hold the promise of transforming these disadvantages into springboards for economic growth and diversification.

Djibouti: Africa Focuses on Infrastructure for Trade Boost

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Djibouti City, Djibouti - in the Regional Conference on Special Economic Zones in Djibouti on April 22, 2025, focused on the development of infrastructure and trade corridors across Africa, recognizing their vital role in enhancing connectivity and integration.

Discussions centered on initiatives like the Trans-Africa Land Bridge and the challenges and opportunities in developing the continent’s infrastructure.

Mr. Denis Muganga, Director of Private Sector Investment at the Northern Corridor Transit and Transport Coordination Authority (NCTTCA), highlighted the ambitious Trans-Africa Highway project, spanning 18 to 30 countries with a planned 60,000-kilometer network. “I’m sure most of us have heard about this project, considered as one of the major projects of the century,” Muganga stated. However, he also pointed out the slow progress and challenges hindering infrastructure development in Africa.

In Picture: Day 1 of the Regional Conference on Special Economic Zones- Djibouti

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Day 1 of the Regional Conference on Special Economic Zones in Djibouti highlighted the critical role of the AfCFTA in driving African trade and economic integration. Discussions emphasized the importance of innovation, technology, and skills development for the success of SEZs, with a key panel session focusing on these drivers of growth.

[caption id=“attachment_31947” align=“alignnone” width=“1024”] Wamkele Mene, Secretary General of the AfCFTA[/caption]

Djibouti Hosts Regional Conference, Emphasizes AfCFTA's Role in African Trade

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Djibouti City, Djibouti - The Regional Conference on Special Economic Zones commenced its first day on April 21, 2025, in Djibouti, drawing officials and delegates from across Africa. The event highlighted Djibouti’s strategic importance in driving African trade and the critical role of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in the continent’s economic integration.

The Minister of Trade and Tourism in Djibouti, Mohamed Warsama Dirieh, extended a warm welcome, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the conference. Minister Dirieh underscored Djibouti’s historical and ongoing commitment to economic integration.

Djibouti: Skills and Technology for Special Economic Zones Growth

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A compelling afternoon panel session at the Regional Conference on Special Economic Zones in Djibouti focused on the critical role of innovation, technology, and skills development in driving the success of SEZs and broader economic growth across Africa.

The discussion centered on how these three elements can be leveraged to transform SEZs into dynamic hubs of economic activity and contribute to the overall prosperity of the continent.

Njoroge Francis Gitau, Manager of Special Economic Zones in Kenya, emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to innovation. “It is very critical they don’t see innovation only but also it’s right in the whole sector. Innovation, science, and technology are critical aspects,” Gitau stated. He highlighted Kenya’s commitment to developing its human capital, noting, “We offer training to the youth in Kenya, we understand the issue around capacity building, we ensure we have centers for where to offer trainings.”

Africa Peace Run: A Collective Step Toward Unity and Stability Across the Continent

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

On a mission to promote peace and unity across Africa, the Africa Peace Run initiative has gained significant momentum under the leadership of the Global Election Observation Mission (GEOM). This initiative seeks to bridge divides and address the underlying issues of violence and political unrest by engaging the continent’s most valuable resource, its youth.

The idea behind the Africa Peace Run was born from the understanding of Africa’s history and the challenges it continues to face. Kaikare Ronald, the Head of Programs at GEOM and Director of Africa Peace Run, shared his thoughts on why this initiative is so crucial for the continent.

Rwanda: Young CEOs & Professionals Launch Financial Literacy Program in Kigali

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

On Sunday, January 19, 2025, Kigali, Rwanda played host to a dynamic gathering of young CEOs and business professionals at a significant event aimed at discussing and promoting the importance of financial literacy. The event, brought together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders to tackle pressing challenges and opportunities in the business world around the theme “Awareness & Understanding the Importance of Financial Literacy,” The day was marked by the official launch of a nationwide financial literacy program, a significant step towards empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs.