Niger launches first defense attaché training program

Niger launches first defense attaché training program The Nigerien government has inaugurated its inaugural defense attaché and military attaché training program, marking a historic milestone in the nation’s military diplomacy. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of National Defense in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represents a significant leap forward in institutional capacity-building. Strengthening defense diplomacy through institutional training This morning, the State Minister of National Defense, General Salifou Mody, presided over the opening ceremony at the War College. The event kickstarted the first-ever training session for defense…

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African Union reaffirms commitment to Mali amid security challenges

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission arrived in Bamako over the weekend for an official visit aimed at deepening collaboration between the continental body and Malian authorities while addressing the nation’s pressing security concerns. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf reiterated the AU’s unwavering support for Mali despite the country’s suspension from the organisation following the 2021 coup. While Bamako remains excluded from AU decision-making bodies due to the constitutional breach, the union continues to prioritise diplomatic engagement. The AU’s stance reflects its belief that Mali’s stability is vital not only for…

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Ousmane Diagne named head of Senegal’s constitutional council

The Senegalese presidency has just announced a major shake-up at the helm of the country’s highest judicial body. In an official statement released on Monday, July 13, 2026, it was revealed that Ousmane Diagne, a seasoned magistrate and former Minister of Justice, has been appointed President of the Constitutional Council. This appointment, formalized by Decree No. 2026-1318, marks a significant turn in Senegal’s institutional landscape. Ousmane Diagne, who previously held the same position during the early days of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s administration, returns to the helm of the council…

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Medical malpractice case in Chad ends with surgeon acquitted

Chad medical malpractice case in Chad ends with surgeon acquitted A N’Djamena court cleared a surgeon of involuntary manslaughter but ordered him to pay a civil fine of 50,000 CFA francs. — 1 min read Share N’Djamena, July 13, 2026 – The High Court of N’Djamena has delivered its ruling in a high-profile medical malpractice case involving a surgeon accused of involuntary manslaughter following the death of a 60-year-old woman during surgery. The defendant admitted to the factual circumstances of the incident but denied any professional misconduct. His legal team…

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DRC pushes for balanced mining tax recovery amid investor concerns

President Tshisekedi calls for restraint in mineral sector tax enforcement In a decisive move to safeguard the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s mining sector appeal, President Félix Tshisekedi has directed fiscal authorities to scale back aggressive tax collection tactics targeting mining companies. The directive, issued during a ministerial council meeting in Kinshasa, aims to prevent policies that could undermine investor confidence in the country’s vital mineral economy. The Democratic Republic of the Congo stands as the world’s top cobalt producer and Africa’s second-largest copper exporter, making its mining sector a…

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Lucas Digne set for Paris Saint-Germain return ahead of 2026 world cup

The football world is abuzz with news of Lucas Digne’s imminent return to Paris Saint-Germain, a decade after his departure for FC Barcelone. The French international defender, currently plying his trade at Aston Villa, has agreed terms with the Ligue 1 giants, according to fresh reports. The timing couldn’t be more intriguing. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just days away from its final stages, where France will face Spain and England will take on Argentina, the football community is speculating whether Digne’s move could impact his availability for the…

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Togo unified pension system: simplified retirement for public and private workers

Togolese workers who have contributed to both the public and private pension systems will benefit from a major simplification under a new coordinated retirement mechanism. The Caisse de Retraites du Togo (CRT) and the Caisse Nationale de Sécurité Sociale (CNSS) have officially launched a unified pension liquidation process, ending years of administrative hurdles for those with mixed career paths. Seamless career recognition for all contributors Previously, switching between public and private sector employment often led to complications during retirement. Workers who contributed to the CRT during their public service years…

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Why Serie A’s cardiac exams derail football transfers

why Serie A’s cardiac exams derail football transfers Anan Khalaili’s move to Inter Milan collapsed due to stricter Italian football regulations. What do these mandatory cardiac tests entail, and why does Italy enforce them so rigorously? July 13, 2026 Anan Khalaili’s transfer to Inter Milan collapsed after he failed additional cardiac examinations at Milan’s Humanitas hospital. While standard medical tests passed earlier, deeper scrutiny revealed concerns. Italy’s football regulations require these strict protocols, setting it apart from other European leagues. Could this stringent approach actually benefit Khalaili by redirecting him…

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Sonko spotlights africa’s football shortfalls after disappointing 2026 world cup outings

«Lessons to learn»: Ousmane Sonko highlights Africa’s football weaknesses after early 2026 World Cup exits Following early exits from the 2026 World Cup, Ousmane Sonko, President of Senegal’s National Assembly, has called for urgent reforms in African football management, citing structural weaknesses that continue to undermine the continent’s performances. In a candid assessment shared with international media, Ousmane Sonko, leader of the Pastef/Les Patriotes party, outlined his views on Africa’s World Cup campaign. Despite the expanded number of African teams qualifying for the tournament, he emphasized that the increase was…

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N’Djamena experiences sharp rise in building material costs

N’Djamena is currently witnessing a significant escalation in the prices of essential building materials across hardware stores, posing considerable challenges for both residential and commercial construction ventures. Numerous products have seen substantial price hikes in recent weeks. For instance, the cost of lambour, previously around 3,000 FCFA, has now escalated to between 4,500 and 5,000 FCFA. Chevron prices have jumped from 6,000 to 9,000 FCFA, while planche blanche has increased from 9,000 to 14,000 FCFA. A single bag of Dangote cement is now retailing for 11,000 FCFA. Hardware store managers…

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Burkina Faso’s Russia ties: a strategic shift with unresolved questions

Ouagadougou’s pivot to Moscow: promises of partnership vs. enduring challenges Since deepening ties with Russia, Burkina Faso’s leadership has framed Moscow as a key ally, emphasizing a collaboration built on mutual respect and political neutrality. Official statements repeatedly describe the relationship as a “win-win” partnership, particularly in advancing the country’s sovereignty and security. Yet beneath the rhetoric of strategic autonomy, critical questions remain about the true impact of this reorientation on Burkina Faso’s future. Sovereignty through diversification: a fragile equation Ouagadougou has justified its growing alignment with Russia as a…

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Health services for nomadic families in Chad through integrated care

In the heart of Mandjafa, a nomadic camp on the outskirts of N’Djamena, Afia arrived with her four-month-old daughter Fatma to access vital health services tailored for mobile communities. A mother of five, Afia relies on these periodic interventions to safeguard her family’s well-being. “Vaccinations keep our children healthy,” she shares. “Whenever they fall ill, I take them straight to the nearest health post.” Bridging gaps in healthcare for Chad’s pastoral communities Afia’s journey reflects the challenges faced by Chad’s nomadic populations—approximately 3.5% of the nation—where seasonal migration and remote…

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