Author: Aïcha Abdou

Journalist

Libreville’s urban rebirth under Oligui Nguema’s accelerated vision

Aïcha Abdou

Politics Libreville’s urban rebirth under Oligui Nguema’s accelerated vision Editorial team June 3, 2026 35 No comment Libreville, June 3, 2026 – The transformation of Gabon’s capital has entered a decisive phase under direct presidential supervision. During a meeting with Mayor Eugène Mba, President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema placed municipal governance at the heart of the nation’s modernization strategy. The encounter, part of ongoing oversight of local administration, underscores the government’s commitment to tighter coordination with grassroots authorities to expedite urban renewal across the city. Municipal leadership under performance pressure…

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African gold exports to Dubai: Cameroon’s five-year losses and the central african republic’s opaque trade

Aïcha Abdou

The intricate world of gold exports to Dubai has recently brought Cameroon’s financial landscape into sharp focus, revealing significant overall losses over a five-year period. This substantial drain on national resources prompts critical inquiries into the transparency and accountability surrounding such lucrative trade activities. As Cameroon grapples with these disclosed figures, an urgent question emerges regarding the Central African Republic (RCA). What is the actual scope of RCA’s gold exports, and what are the corresponding financial returns, or potential hidden losses, for its national treasury? The prevailing lack of clarity…

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Chad energy project: groundbreaking ceremony for 40mw power plant in N’Djamena

Aïcha Abdou

N’Djamena is set to witness a transformative moment in its energy landscape as Sonelgaz International prepares to lay the foundation stone for a new 40-megawatt power plant in the coming days. The announcement was made by Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies Mourad Adjal during a high-profile event in Niamey. The minister emphasized the significance of this project, highlighting its role in strengthening energy infrastructure in the region. This initiative follows the successful completion of a similar 40-megawatt power plant in Gorou Banda, Niamey, which was inaugurated under the supervision…

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Eastern centrafrica rebels and russian mercenaries escalate attacks on azande communities

Aïcha Abdou

Escalating Violence in Haut-Mbomou: Russian-backed Forces and Government Align with LRA to Target Azandé Populations The southeastern region of Haut-Mbomou has witnessed a dramatic surge in hostilities as coordinated operations involving Russian mercenaries and Central African government forces reportedly deploy former members of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) to suppress indigenous Azandé resistance movements. The strategy appears designed to dismantle local self-defense initiatives by leveraging the LRA’s notorious history of violence, including kidnappings, looting, and targeted assassinations. Residents in Zemio and surrounding areas have reported increased armed incursions over recent…

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Niger’s president strengthens ties with Turkey in Ankara visit

Aïcha Abdou

Niamey, June 3, 2026 — President General Abdourahamane Tiani departed Niamey early Wednesday for Ankara on an official visit described as both a working and friendship mission. The trip unfolds against a backdrop of pressing regional challenges—security threats, economic pressures, and diplomatic realignments—that have elevated Turkey as a critical strategic partner for West African nations. High-level delegation underscores strategic depth General Tiani’s delegation reflects the visit’s broad scope, featuring key members of Niger’s leadership. Joining him are the Minister of State for National Defense, General Salifou Mody; the Minister of…

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Benin and Burkina Faso boost bilateral ties with upcoming joint commission

Aïcha Abdou

Diplomatic momentum is building between Bénin and Burkina Faso as both nations take decisive steps to deepen their bilateral cooperation. The recent working visit of Bénin‘s President Romuald Wadagni to Ouagadougou, where he engaged with Burkina Faso’s interim leader Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has set the stage for an intensified partnership. A landmark announcement followed: the upcoming convening of the 5th Great Joint Commission, a pivotal forum designed to solidify a shared agenda for development and resilience. This high-level meeting will serve as a cornerstone for both countries to address pressing…

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Senegalese ambassador coly seck elected to lead un fourth committee

Aïcha Abdou

The United Nations General Assembly’s Fourth Committee, responsible for special political and decolonization matters, has appointed Senegalese Ambassador Coly Seck as its new President for the 81st session. Historic appointment for Senegal The election took place in New York on June 2, 2026, following the 85th plenary meeting of the 80th session. Member States also selected the President, Vice-Presidents, and leadership teams for the six main committees of the upcoming session. In a statement released by Senegal’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations, Ambassador Seck expressed gratitude for the trust…

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Côte d’Ivoire: pdci leaders seek to mend internal divisions

Aïcha Abdou

In Côte d’Ivoire, influential figures within the Parti Démocratique de Côte d’ivoire (PDCI) are proactively engaging in efforts to reconcile internal factions and foster greater unity. Prominent leaders such as Jean-Louis Billon, Jean-Marc Yacé, and Jacques Ehouo are spearheading these critical discussions, aiming to solidify the party’s cohesion and strategic direction within the dynamic landscape of Ivorian politics. These vital reconciliation endeavors manifest through various initiatives, including informal gatherings designed to facilitate frank exchanges among key members. A notable instance was a recent luncheon hosted at Richard’s in Abidjan on…

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Drc human rights: paul nsapu unveils dual challenges in Kinshasa and the east

Aïcha Abdou

DRC human rights: Paul Nsapu unveils dual challenges in Kinshasa and the east Société Paul Nsapu, who chairs the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH), recently offered a nuanced assessment of the human rights landscape in the Democratic Republic of Congo under the current administration. Speaking during a live discussion, Nsapu acknowledged certain legislative advancements while drawing a clear distinction between two very different realities across the nation. In the provinces under Kinshasa’s direct authority, Nsapu identified persistent, systemic violations affecting civil, political, economic, and social rights. These include fundamental entitlements…

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Gabon: detained opposition leader bilie by nze challenges judicial fairness

Aïcha Abdou

Politics Gabon: detained opposition leader Bilie By Nze challenges judicial fairness By Editor-in-Chief June 3, 2026 81 No comments Libreville, June 3, 2026 — The continued detention of former Prime Minister and prominent Gabonese opposition leader Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze has intensified debates over judicial independence and the fairness of legal proceedings in the country. The Court of Appeal in Libreville’s decision to uphold his detention, despite defense arguments, has elevated this case from a routine legal matter to a pivotal test for the nation’s commitment to due process and…

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Fuel shortages paralyze Ségou’s economy in central Mali

Aïcha Abdou

MaliPolitics Fuel shortages paralyze Ségou’s economy in central Mali Chronic fuel shortages persist in Ségou, Mali, disrupting daily life and economic activity. Rising black market prices and recurring stockouts leave residents struggling. Since September 2025, Ségou, a key economic hub in central Mali located over 200 kilometers from Bamako, has been grappling with severe fuel shortages. These disruptions have crippled local businesses and strained daily life for residents. Insufficient fuel supply reaching the city The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) secure and escort fuel convoys to Ségou, but these deliveries occur…

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