Month: July 2026

Gabon’s state visit to France: a landmark in bilateral ties

Ousmane Tandja

During the observance of France‘s National Day at the French embassy in Libreville, Ambassador Fabrice Mauriès announced that Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema will embark on a state visit to Paris in the coming days. The diplomat emphasized the significance of this visit, describing it as the highest level of protocol and a decisive milestone in strengthening the bilateral relationship between the two nations. Addressing Gabonese officials, the diplomatic corps, and representatives of the French community, Ambassador Mauriès stated that “in the next few days, His Excellency President Brice…

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DRC leader in Angola for global peace summit focused on conflict resolution

Aïcha Abdou

The President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, arrived in Luanda on July 16, 2026, at the invitation of Angola’s President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço. The visit marks the DRC’s participation in the third edition of the high-level initiative “A Call for Peace, Ending Wars, and Upholding International Law.” Global leaders unite in Angola to address peace and security challenges This international gathering brings together Heads of State, African Union officials, United Nations representatives, religious leaders, academic experts, and youth delegates. The discussions center on…

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West African leaders convene in Freetown amid AES absence

Aïcha Abdou

PolitiqueAfrique Encore un sommet de la Cédéao sans l’AES Mohamed Touré 17/07/202617 juillet 2026 Freetown is currently hosting the gathering of ECOWAS heads of state and government. This pivotal meeting comes after Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso formally exited the regional bloc, which is now actively working to rebuild its standing. https://p.dw.com/p/5HH8P The 69th summit of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is underway in Freetown, Sierra Leone, marking a pivotal moment for the regional body. As ECOWAS convenes this Sunday, it does so without three of its…

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Cédéao summit in Freetown without AES countries

Aïcha Abdou

The 69th Economic Community of West African States (Cédéao) summit convened in Freetown, Sierra Leone, at a pivotal moment for the regional bloc. While the gathering proceeds, three key members—Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso—remain absent, having formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). This absence casts a shadow over the proceedings, as leaders grapple with the implications of their withdrawal and the future of regional cooperation. Redefining the Cédéao’s future without its Sahel members The withdrawal of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso has raised pressing questions about the bloc’s direction.…

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Political fallout in Senegal as waly diouf bodian dismissed from port authority

Ousmane Tandja

Senegal’s political landscape shifts as Waly Diouf Bodian exits Port of Dakar leadership Waly Diouf Bodian, a prominent voice in support of Ousmane Sonko, has been removed from his position as head of the Port of Dakar by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. The dismissal comes amid a politically charged environment, with one of Bodian’s past social media prophecies about former President Macky Sall resurfacing with striking irony. As a staunch supporter of Pastef and Ousmane Sonko, Waly Diouf Bodian’s removal from the Port of Dakar leadership marks a significant shift…

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Tshisekedi’s urgent plea: confronting global inaction on the drc’s eastern conflict in luanda

Ousmane Tandja

In a significant official visit to Luanda, Angola, President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo delivered a profoundly impactful speech, resonating with a rare political force. His Angolan counterpart, João Lourenço, extended a warm welcome to the Congolese leader. Addressing the 3rd edition of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) initiative, the head of state unequivocally condemned the international community’s passivity regarding the severe security challenges plaguing the Eastern DRC. He raised his voice against a global order he perceives as increasingly adrift. For President Tshisekedi, the…

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Benin customs intercept over 5500 smuggled phones at Hillacondji border

Aïcha Abdou

Bénin customs strike record haul of smuggled phones at Hillacondji The Beninese customs authorities have achieved a major breakthrough in their ongoing campaign against cross-border fraud and illicit trade. On the morning of July 12, 2026, a coordinated operation at the Hillacondji border crossing led to the interception of a substantial shipment of mobile devices being smuggled into the country. The customs team, led by Captain Fortuné Allagbé, acted swiftly to prevent the contraband from entering domestic distribution networks. In total, 5,574 Android smartphones were confiscated during the raid, marking…

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Senegal: high-stakes political meeting ignites public outcry

Ousmane Tandja

PolitiqueSénégal In Senegal, the anticipated meeting between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and his predecessor Macky Sall is sparking considerable anger among families of victims from political repression during Sall’s tenure. This analysis delves into the unfolding controversy. The planned encounter between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and his predecessor Macky Sall in Senegal has ignited a wave of indignation, particularly among the families of those who suffered political repression during Sall’s time in power. These families are vocal in their condemnation, viewing the visit as a profound affront while they continue…

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Diomaye faye and macky sall meeting sparks controversy in Senegal

Aïcha Abdou

The upcoming meeting between Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and his predecessor Macky Sall has ignited fierce criticism from families of victims of political repression during Sall’s tenure. Protesters accuse the government of prioritizing diplomatic gestures over justice, as many victims continue to await accountability and reparations. What makes this encounter controversial, and how might it reshape Senegal’s political landscape? Political analyst Assane Samb shares insights on the significance of this meeting in today’s Senegalese context. analyst weighs in on the high-stakes meeting Assane Samb: While some voices are vocalizing…

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Luanda summit: Tshisekedi warns of DRC crisis as a test for global peace efforts

Aïcha Abdou

During a high-level international forum in Luanda, Angolan President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) delivered a powerful address, framing the ongoing crisis in eastern DRC as a pivotal moment for Africa and the global community. Addressing delegates at the third edition of the Call for Peace, End of Wars, and Respect for International Law initiative, Tshisekedi emphasized that the conflict’s resolution would serve as a litmus test for the international community’s commitment to upholding justice and human dignity. DRC’s suffering: a stark reminder of war’s…

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LOSC eyes record-breaking transfer of rising star Ayyoub Bouaddi

Aïcha Abdou

Three years ago, Paris Saint-Germain etched its name in Ligue 1 history by selling Neymar to Al-Hilal for €90 million—a record that could soon be shattered. Lille OSC president Olivier Létang is now pursuing an even more ambitious deal: securing the transfer of Moroccan sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi, whose stock has soared following his standout performance at the World Cup. The 18-year-old midfielder has become one of Europe’s most sought-after talents, with top Premier League clubs circling. Lille, however, remains his preferred destination—a sentiment reinforced by Létang himself. “Few clubs today…

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