Author: Aïcha Abdou

Journalist

Wagner mercenaries retreat in central african republic amid rebel surge

Aïcha Abdou

Heavy clashes have erupted in the town of Am-Dafock, Central African Republic, as rebel forces launch a determined offensive against Wagner Group mercenaries. Reports from the frontline indicate a rapid deterioration of the Russian-led contingent’s position, with strategic withdrawals and mounting casualties forcing their retreat. The rebel coalition, composed of various armed factions, has exploited weaknesses in Wagner’s defensive lines, capturing key positions and cutting off supply routes. Local sources confirm that the mercenaries are struggling to maintain control over the region, with some fighters reportedly abandoning their posts in…

Read More

Morocco spain high-ranking officials honored in Rabat

Aïcha Abdou

The Moroccan capital, Rabat, played host to a significant diplomatic and security event this week, as high-ranking officials from the Direction générale de la Sûreté nationale (DGSN) and Direction générale de la Surveillance du territoire (DGST) were bestowed with prestigious Spanish honors. The ceremony, held on Thursday, marked a milestone in the robust security cooperation between Morocco and Spain. The occasion was graced by the presence of a high-level delegation from the Spanish Civil Guard, led by General Luis Peláez Piñeiro, Director of Intelligence, underscoring the importance of the visit.…

Read More

Porto-Novo to host the 2026 mask festival, a global cultural convergence

Aïcha Abdou

Porto-Novo, the political heart of Bénin, is once again preparing to immerse itself in the vibrant rhythms of the Festival des Masques. The 2026 edition, scheduled for July 25th and 26th, promises to build upon the resounding success of previous years. This esteemed cultural gathering is already poised to be a pivotal event for both African and global heritage. The previous festival left an indelible mark, showcasing an extraordinary assembly of iconic masks from various nations across West Africa. Attendees were captivated by the sight of the Goli from Côte…

Read More

Ebola crisis in the democratic republic of Congo claims over 430 lives

Aïcha Abdou

The ongoing Ebola epidemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has tragically resulted in 438 fatalities among 1,406 recorded cases, marking a significant lethality rate of 31.2%. This grim update was provided in the latest assessment released on Thursday by the National Institute of Public Health (INSP). Officially declared on May 15, this particular outbreak is attributed to the Bundibugyo virus strain. Currently, there is no approved vaccine or specific treatment available for this variant. However, health authorities have confirmed that clinical trials are in the preparatory stages. Ituri…

Read More

BEI chief lauds Morocco’s role as Africa-Europe bridge during Rabat visit

Aïcha Abdou

BEI chief lauds Morocco’s role as Africa-Europe bridge during Rabat visit The European Investment Bank president met with Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and Economy Minister Nadia Fettah Agreements signed include loans and grants for rail and highway infrastructure projects The landmark visit by Nadia Calviño, President of the European Investment Bank (BEI), to Morocco underscored the North African nation’s pivotal position as a gateway between Africa and Europe. During her three-day official tour, she engaged with key Moroccan officials to strengthen economic ties and explore new investment avenues. A…

Read More

Fbi deputy director lauds Morocco’s security prowess for 2026 world cup

Aïcha Abdou

Christopher Raia, the esteemed Deputy Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), recently undertook a pivotal visit to the International Police Cooperation Center (IPCC). This crucial hub serves as a central gathering point for law enforcement officials and security agency delegates from all participating nations in the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup. This high-level engagement forms an integral part of the comprehensive security strategy being meticulously developed to ensure the safety and smooth execution of all matches throughout the global football spectacle. The senior American official specifically dedicated time…

Read More

Morocco’s groundbreaking move to tax digital giants

Aïcha Abdou

Digital platforms such as Meta, X, Instagram, TikTok, Netflix, and Spotify have transcended their original roles in entertainment and social connection. These powerful global economic engines have long operated outside the traditional regulatory frameworks of nation-states. In Morocco, this fiscal vacuum officially concluded on June 11, 2026, with the launch of a specialized platform by the Directorate General of Taxes (DGI), accessible via the SIMPL portal, designed specifically for the taxation of digital services. This significant development aligns with the economic theory of technical progress, famously articulated by Nobel laureate…

Read More

Côte d’Ivoire: laurent gbagbo’s strategic moves with ppa-ci

Aïcha Abdou

In Côte d’Ivoire, Laurent Gbagbo, the esteemed president of the African Peoples’ Party – Côte d’Ivoire (PPA-CI), recently presided over the closing ceremony of his party’s inaugural congress. Held in Abidjan on May 15, 2026, this significant gathering highlights the former head of state’s continuous engagement and strategic positioning within the nation’s dynamic political landscape, signaling renewed momentum for the PPA-CI. By Aïcha Abdou — Senior correspondent

Read More

Belgium secures dramatic world cup round of 16 berth against Senegal

Aïcha Abdou

La Belgique a décroché son ticket pour les 8e de finale du Mondial. In a truly last-gasp effort, Belgium clinched their spot in the World Cup Round of 16 on Wednesday, July 1st, by defeating Senegal with a decisive penalty kick converted at the very end of extra time, securing a 3-2 victory. Senegal had established a formidable two-goal lead, with Habib Diarra finding the net in the 24th minute and Ismaïla Sarr adding another in the 51st. However, the Red Devils staged an incredible late surge. Romelu Lukaku ignited…

Read More

Drc-Rwanda peace efforts challenged by Washington’s sanctions

Aïcha Abdou

As diplomatic efforts continue, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda are under pressure to honor their commitments following a recent high-level meeting. Last week in London, representatives from Kigali and Kinshasa convened for the sixth session of their Joint Monitoring Committee, a critical step in implementing the peace accord. During these discussions, both nations pledged to alleviate escalating tensions, particularly in the Minembwe region, and to broaden the scope of the existing ceasefire verification mechanism. However, these renewed commitments emerge amidst increasing scrutiny from Washington. The United States…

Read More

Fbi deputy director praises Morocco’s crucial role in 2026 world cup security efforts

Aïcha Abdou

Christopher Raia, the Deputy Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), recently visited the International Police Cooperation Centre (IPCC). This crucial hub brings together law enforcement and security agency representatives from all nations participating in the upcoming 2026 World Cup. The visit formed an integral part of the high-level security framework established to oversee all matches of the global football tournament. During his time at the IPCC, the senior American official held a dedicated meeting with representatives from Morocco’s General Directorate of National Security (DGSN) and the General Directorate…

Read More

Maroc united states enduring partnership with shared strategic benefits

Aïcha Abdou

In a remarkable display of longstanding cooperation, Morocco and the United States have celebrated a milestone: 250 years of diplomatic ties. This enduring partnership, rooted in mutual strategic interests, continues to shape economic and political landscapes on both sides of the Atlantic. The historical bond between Morocco and the United States reflects more than just diplomatic formalities—it embodies a shared vision for stability, economic growth, and regional security. Over the past two and a half centuries, this alliance has evolved into a robust framework, fostering collaboration in trade, technology, and…

Read More