Category: Top Stories

Benin’s political scene is experiencing a significant transformation on the eve of the April 2026 presidential election. A pivotal moment occurred when the interim president of the main opposition party officially declared his unequivocal backing for the Romuald Wadagni – Talata ticket, representing the presidential majority. Addressing an enthusiastic crowd in Tokpadomè, Kpomassè, Éric Houndété urged citizens to cast their votes en masse for this duo, which he described as «ideal for the Benin of tomorrow.» Under a scorching sun and amidst an electric atmosphere, the interim leader of the…

The military leader of Burkina Faso has declared that the nation must abandon its pursuit of democracy, calling the system “a killer” that has no place in the country. Speaking in a televised interview, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who seized power three years ago, argued that most Africans do not want Western-style democracy and that Burkina Faso must forge its own path. From democratic promises to authoritarian rule Traoré initially pledged to restore democracy in Burkina Faso by July 2024. Yet, just two months before the deadline, the military junta announced…

Ibrahim Traoré, the military ruler of Burkina Faso, has declared that the nation must “forget” democracy, calling the system incompatible with the country’s needs. Speaking on national television, the 38-year-old captain claimed that most Africans do not desire democratic governance and that Burkina Faso would pursue an alternative path, though he provided no further details. From promised democracy to prolonged military rule Traoré seized power three years ago, pledging to restore democratic governance by July 2024. However, with the deadline approaching, the junta extended its mandate by five years, citing…

Burkina Faso: widespread atrocities committed by all conflict parties Click to expand Image The Burkinabè military, allied militias, and an Al-Qaeda-linked armed group have killed over 1,800 civilians and forcibly displaced tens of thousands since 2023. The junta itself commits horrific abuses, fails to hold perpetrators accountable, and restricts information flows to conceal civilian suffering. Regional bodies and international partners must urge Burkina Faso’s authorities to address violations by all parties and ensure accountability. Since 2023, the Burkinabè army, supported by allied militias known as the Volunteers for the Defense…

In the Fulfulde language, Domol Leydi signifies “Guardians of the Earth.” Within the administrative framework of Niger, this name now identifies new territorial self-defense organizations. This volunteer corps was formally established by a government decree during the Council of Ministers on Friday, March 27, to intensify the fight against extremist groups that have been active in this Sahel nation since 2017. Recruited from either former military personnel or local residents of the targeted areas, these auxiliaries will support the defense and security forces. According to official statements, they will operate…

Launched on March 25 by Burkina Faso’s Prime Minister, Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo, in Ouagadougou, the inaugural edition of FONAFIS (National Forum on Health Financing) draws to a close on March 27. This significant high-level forum convenes political leaders, local and international experts, alongside technical and financial partners (TFPs). Their discussions center on crucial challenges related to mobilizing resources and diminishing reliance on external funding for public health initiatives across Africa. A core objective for the organizers is also to fortify the African continent’s health systems, enhancing their resilience against…

In Togo, the upward movement of consumer prices stayed at a contained level throughout February 2026, registering an overall rise of 0.4%. This figure indicates a marginal acceleration in the cost of goods and services compared to the 0.2% recorded during the preceding month. Despite this slight uptick, the nation continues to showcase effective economic stewardship, maintaining a relatively stable inflationary environment for its populace and businesses. By Ousmane Tandja — Senior correspondent

The United States is currently amplifying its diplomatic overtures across the Sahel, directing significant attention toward Niger. This strategic pivot comes in the wake of prior engagements and discussions held in Mali and Burkina Faso. Washington’s calculated moves signify a concerted effort to re-establish and solidify its influence within this critical African region, aiming to foster stability and cooperation amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics. By Ousmane Tandja — Senior correspondent

The government of Sénégal has voiced a fierce objection to the recent ruling by the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) Appeal Jury. This controversial decision nullified Sénégal‘s victory in the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Maroc 2025 final, officially declaring Maroc as the tournament winner despite the on-field result from January 18. In an official statement released this Wednesday, the Senegalese authorities described the move as an unprecedented and exceptionally grave act. They argued that the ruling directly contradicts the fundamental ethics of sport, specifically the principles of fairness,…

Senegal loses CAN 2026 title to Morocco following chaotic final African Cup of Nations 2026, football, sports The African Football Confederation has stripped Senegal of its CAN 2026 title, awarding it to Morocco instead after violent scenes marred the final on January 18, 2026. The Senegalese federation has vowed to appeal the decision. The jury of the African Football Confederation (CAF) has ruled that Senegal forfeited their victory in the chaotic African Cup of Nations final, handing the title to Morocco instead. The decision was made after Senegalese players temporarily…

Following an appeal lodged by the Moroccan Football Federation, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) made a pivotal decision on Tuesday evening: awarding the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN 2025) title to Morocco. This comes despite Senegal having defeated Morocco 1-0 in the 35th edition’s final on January 18. In response, the Senegalese Football Federation announced its intent to appeal, while the Senegalese government has called for an international investigation into “suspicions of corruption within CAF’s governing bodies.” “This isn’t April Fools’,” and “The joke of the century” were among…

Niger strengthens health sector with US-backed integrated ecosystem The Niger government has forged a strategic five-year health cooperation agreement with the United States, securing a total investment of $179.3 million to modernize its healthcare system. Under this landmark partnership, Washington will allocate $107.4 million to combat malaria, improve maternal and child health, and bolster epidemiological surveillance and emergency response systems across the country. Meanwhile, Niamey has committed to contributing $71.9 million from domestic resources, demonstrating strong national ownership of these critical health initiatives. comprehensive digital health infrastructure at the core…