DRC military tightens smartphone ban for frontline troops amid security concerns

The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) have issued a fresh directive prohibiting unauthorized use of smartphones by troops in combat zones, citing serious security risks. In an official communication released on July 9, 2026, the acting spokesperson for the FARDC, Lieutenant-Colonel Mak Hazukay, emphasized that even a single misused device could compromise entire military operations. He warned that active smartphones could reveal troop positions, expose movement patterns, and facilitate enemy targeting, potentially leading to ambushes or coordinated attacks against Congolese units. Strict measures to prevent information…

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DRC military tightens smartphone ban for troops amid rising security risks

DRC military tightens smartphone ban for troops amid rising security risks The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) have issued a fresh warning to military personnel operating in conflict zones: the unauthorized use of smartphones is strictly prohibited. This stern reminder comes as authorities highlight the severe security risks posed by mobile phone misuse during combat operations. A soldier equipped for frontline operations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo Why this ban matters now In a statement released on July 9, 2026, acting spokesperson for…

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Congo-Kinshasa: c64 outlines conditions for political dialogue

Following their recent meeting with Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, the Coalition Article 64 for the Defense of Constitutional Order (C64) held a crucial debriefing on Thursday, July 9, 2026, detailing their discussions in Bujumbura. Addressing accusations of compromising their principles for a potential rapprochement with the Tshisekedi administration, prominent figures within the C64 sought to reassure their base. Martin Fayulu and his colleagues clarified that they did not initiate the encounter with Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, asserting that he took the lead in his capacity as the current Chairperson of…

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Congo-Kinshasa coalition rejects constitutional changes in upcoming dialogue

Leaders of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Coalition Article 64 have concluded a high-profile visit to Bujumbura, where discussions with President Évariste Ndayishimiye centered on the nation’s political trajectory. Addressing concerns over their engagement with the Congolese government, members of the coalition clarified that the meeting was initiated by the Burundian head of state in his capacity as African Union chairperson—not by their own accord. The delegation, led by former presidential candidate Martin Fayulu, emphasized that while they support political dialogue and national unity, such efforts must adhere to…

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Senegal parliament returns early to push through key reforms

In Senegal, Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has cut short the parliamentary recess for lawmakers, calling them back to the National Assembly in Dakar before their scheduled return. The move, announced just weeks before the traditional summer break was set to conclude, accelerates the legislative agenda as the Faye-Sonko administration races to fulfill campaign promises made during the 2024 presidential election and subsequent early legislative polls in November. Tightened parliamentary schedule to fast-track reforms The decision goes beyond a simple calendar adjustment—it reflects the government’s determination to maintain momentum in passing…

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Paris festivities after France’s world cup win: calm atmosphere with few arrests

Coupe du Monde 2026 Festive night turns orderly: Paris celebrates France’s world cup victory with minimal disruptions July 10, 2026 Share Share Whatsapp LinkedIn Email Messenger France’s triumphant 2-0 victory over Morocco in the World Cup quarterfinals was met with orderly celebrations across Paris, with police reporting only a handful of minor incidents. Paris and its suburbs hosted a peaceful, celebratory evening following the French national team’s hard-fought win against Morocco. The match, which secured France’s spot in the World Cup semifinals, passed without major disturbances, though a few isolated…

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Médine market in Bamako: the heart of trade and local craftsmanship

Adama Konaté has spent nearly three decades mastering the art of bicycle repair and assembly in Bamako. His workshop at the new Médine market is a hub for imported two-wheelers from France, the United States, England, Canada, and China. Beyond sales, he transforms these vehicles into custom rides, meeting the diverse needs of his customers. The market’s Diguèbakonona section is a treasure trove for more than just bicycles. Here, vehicle accessories and hard-to-find farming equipment are traded alongside two-wheelers. From ploughs to hoes, the market caters to farmers preparing for…

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Chad president concludes UAE visit upon returning to N’Djamena

Chad president concludes UAE visit upon returning to N’Djamena Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno has returned to N’Djamena following an official visit to the United Arab Emirates, where he held high-level discussions with UAE leadership. The President of Chad, Marshal Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, arrived back in N’Djamena late in the evening after concluding an official visit to the United Arab Emirates. During his stay in Abu Dhabi, the Chadian head of state held two separate meetings with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the…

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Tchad president concludes official visit to the United Arab Emirates

Chadian leader returns home from UAE state visit N’Djamena — President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno has returned to Chad after completing a high-level official visit to the United Arab Emirates, where he held key diplomatic meetings. The President’s visit included two formal discussions with the UAE’s head of state, Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The first meeting took place at the UAE’s Presidential Palace, while the second was hosted at the Chadian leader’s official residence. Upon his arrival at N’Djamena International Airport, President Deby was greeted by a high-level…

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Tchad’s president returns from UAE visit amid strengthened ties

The President of Chad, Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, returned to N’Djamena late last evening after concluding an official visit to the United Arab Emirates. Diplomatic discussions and high-level meetings During his brief stay in Abu Dhabi, the Chadian leader held two significant meetings with the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The first discussion took place at the Presidential Palace, while the second was hosted at the residence of President Déby Itno. Warm welcome upon return to N’Djamena Upon landing at N’Djamena International Airport, President Déby…

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Niger hosts key AES-Russia talks to strengthen security and economic ties

The Alliance of Sahel States and Russia deepen strategic collaboration in Niamey Niamey, Niger, served as the backdrop for the second round of high-level consultations between the foreign ministers of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and their Russian counterpart this past Wednesday, July 8. The gathering brought together Niger’s Bakary Yaou Sangaré, Mali’s Abdoulaye Diop, Burkina Faso’s Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré, and Russia’s Sergei Lavrov to chart a unified path forward. The ministers highlighted the fruitful ongoing dialogue between the AES and Russia, which has already yielded tangible progress…

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Ivorian PM urges private investors to drive 2026 development plan

The second day of the National Development Plan (PND) 2026-2030 Consultative Group kicked off in Abidjan on July 9, 2026, at the Sofitel Ivoire Hotel, under the leadership of Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé. The gathering brought together over 700 investors from friendly nations to catalyze private sector engagement in the nation’s economic growth. Prime Minister Mambé underscored the pivotal role of private investment in realizing the country’s ambitious development goals. Addressing a room packed with business leaders and investors, he highlighted the significance of this platform as a bridge…

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