Niger and Benin border dispute: a political lever with heavy consequences
The border between Niger and Benin, once a mere transit point, has evolved into a high-stakes political instrument. Nearly three years after the closure, the situation remains unresolved, despite technical discussions that had raised hopes for a gradual reopening. This impasse underscores a deliberate strategy rather than a mere administrative delay. Unresolved prerequisites: a deliberate […]
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Burkina Faso: the chasm between national assertion and a worsening security reality
In Burkina Faso, the distinction between political posturing and the harsh realities on the ground appears increasingly blurred. A recent directive by the military junta, establishing a “memory attire” to coincide with commemorations of key decolonization milestones, vividly illustrates this dynamic. Presented as a symbol of reasserted sovereignty and national pride, this initiative aligns with […]
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Niger under military rule: three years of isolation and hardship
Three years ago, Niger entered a precarious phase of political, economic, and security turmoil following the military takeover in July 2023. The coup, framed as a historic shift to restore national sovereignty, was also supposed to enhance security, revitalize the economy, and foster national unity. Yet, as the junta marks this grim milestone, its promises […]
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Bénin’s government intensifies efforts to enforce minimum wage compliance
Despite the official minimum interprofessional guaranteed wage (SMIG) being set at 52,000 FCFA, numerous enterprises continue to remunerate employees below this statutory threshold. In response, the Béninese government has adopted a firmer stance, urging workers to report such violations to the Caisse Nationale de Sécurité Sociale (CNSS) and reiterating that non-compliant employers will face severe […]
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Ibrahim Traoré’s digital militia in Burkina Faso
Cyber warfare and repression of dissent in Burkina Faso In Burkina Faso, the fight for press freedom has shifted from newsrooms and streets to digital platforms, where coordinated online campaigns are now the primary tool of repression. Investigations reveal a systematic effort to silence dissent through a network of pro-regime cyberactivists, accused of orchestrating harassment […]
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Reportage Afrique – Femmes de la terre: au Sénégal, Mariama Sonko redonne le pouvoir aux femmes [5/5]
Reportage Afrique Femmes de la terre: au Sénégal, Mariama Sonko redonne le pouvoir aux femmes [5/5] Publié le : 24/07/2026 – 00:03 Écouter – 02:36 À Niaguis, petite localité de la Casamance, Mariama Sonko milite pour l’autonomie financière des femmes via l’agriculture et l’agroécologie depuis plus de 30 ans. Fille de paysanne, elle est la […]
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Niamey struggles with soaring vegetable prices amid planning gaps
In Niamey, the capital of Niger, July 2026’s scorching heat isn’t the only thing making life harder for households. A sudden and steep rise in the cost of essential vegetables has pushed many families into deeper financial strain, exposing deep-rooted issues in the country’s agricultural strategy. The crisis isn’t about drought or bad weather—it’s about […]
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Burkina Faso’s leadership under Ibrahim Traoré: the solitude of power amid growing distrust
The age-old trap of military leaders ascending to power—where discourse is mistaken for reality and public silence is misinterpreted as unwavering support—appears increasingly visible in Burkina Faso. Behind carefully staged appearances, immaculate uniforms, fiery speeches condemning the ‘treacherous West,’ and repeated warnings against so-called ‘anti-revolutionary’ behavior, another narrative is unfolding. What once projected an image […]
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Ibrahim Traoré faces military cohesion crisis in Burkina Faso
Captain Ibrahim Traoré’s recent address in Ouahigouya has laid bare a deep structural fracture within Burkina Faso’s transitional leadership. The blunt, aggressive tone—replete with crude expressions like « merde » and threats of brutal suppression—betrays a profound crisis of confidence in the military apparatus itself. In both governance and warfare, resorting to intimidation and vulgar […]
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Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger bid for 2032 africa cup of nations amid security challenges
The governments of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger have jointly submitted a bid to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2032. Framed as a symbol of solidarity within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), the proposal is intended to send a message of confidence to the African continent. However, beneath the ambition lies […]
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Ibrahim Traoré’s power in Burkina Faso: legitimacy through force and its consequences
Assumption of power: a deliberate break with constitutional norms In Burkina Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré’s recent statements have sharpened discussions regarding the nature of his authority and the trajectory of the nation since the September 2022 coup. Observers note that his declarations leave no room for ambiguity: they openly affirm a seizure of power achieved […]
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Togo’s unanswered questions about foreign military presence
The presence of foreign military personnel in Togo has sparked debate, raising concerns about transparency and accountability. While national defense often involves confidentiality, persistent secrecy raises legitimate questions about the motives behind these partnerships. An opaque military cooperation Rumors and reports have circulated about the presence of foreign military personnel in Togo, including soldiers from […]
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