In-depth English analysis and breaking news from the heart of West Africa's Sahel region.
Gabon’s mining sector set to drive economic growth with new investments The Gabonese government is intensifying efforts to transform its mining sector into a key driver of economic growth, following a decline in oil production. In recent months, a series of investment announcements have been made, accompanied by ongoing exploration and research initiatives across multiple […]
Cholera outbreak in Chad claims 13 lives amid rising cases Health crisis – The Ministry of Public Health has confirmed 13 fatalities and 239 recorded cases of cholera as authorities ramp up emergency response measures. Escalating cholera crisis grips Chad The Ministry of Public Health has raised the alarm over a rapidly worsening cholera epidemic […]
Patrice Talon pledges unity in Benin’s first senate term As the inaugural leader of Benin’s Senate for the 2026-2031 term, Patrice Talon delivered his inaugural address following his election this 6 August 2026. In his speech, Talon expressed deep gratitude to his colleagues for entrusting him with the leadership of the newly established institution, highlighting […]
Patrice Talon elected president of Benin’s first-ever senate Just four months after concluding his presidential term, Patrice Talon has assumed a new leadership role as president of Benin’s inaugural senate. This landmark institution, established through the 2025 constitutional reform, marks a pivotal step in reshaping the nation’s political landscape. Patrice Talon’s senate inauguration and vision […]
The political landscape in Lomé has reached a critical juncture following a landmark ruling by the ECOWAS Court of Justice, which declared Togo’s 2024 constitutional amendment an unconstitutional power grab. In early August 2026, forty-three civil society organizations—both Togolese and international—issued a joint statement demanding immediate and decisive action from regional bodies against what they […]
The death penalty in the Democratic Republic of Congo: a controversial return The debate surrounding capital punishment in the Democratic Republic of Congo has recently regained momentum, sparking intense discussions among legal experts, policymakers, and citizens alike. This resurfacing of the issue raises critical questions about justice, human rights, and the country’s evolving legal landscape. […]
Fresh momentum in Senegal‘s economic trajectory has been achieved following a high-level meeting in Dakar. Ousmane Diagana, Vice President of the World Bank for West and Central Africa, presented President Bassirou Diomaye Faye with a landmark funding package of 340 billion West African CFA francs—equivalent to approximately $598.4 million. This injection underscores the international financial […]
On Thursday, August 6, 2026, senators in Benin convened in Porto-Novo to elect the inaugural leadership of the upper house of parliament. The historic session marked the formal constitution of the Senate’s governing body, a critical step in operationalizing the chamber as outlined by the nation’s constitutional framework. The newly elected officials will spearhead the […]
Cholera outbreak in Chad claims 13 lives N’Djamena — A worsening cholera outbreak has claimed the lives of 13 individuals in Chad, with health authorities reporting 239 confirmed cases since July. The outbreak, which began in early June, has spread to two provinces: Hadjer Lamis in the north and N’Djamena, the capital. Health officials declared […]
Football: Champions League showdown to be refereed by Szymon Marciniak UEFA has entrusted seasoned Polish referee Szymon Marciniak with officiating the second leg of Olympique Lyonnais’ Champions League third qualifying round clash against Sparta Prague on Tuesday evening at Groupama Stadium. – Reading time: Olympique Lyonnais faces a must-win scenario against Sparta Prague in […]
Mawunyo Hermann Boko Journalist specializing in West African politics Patrice Talon Romuald Wadagni Thomas Boni Yayi Benin’s Senate inauguration marks new political chapter Porto-Novo witnessed a historic moment on July 30, 2026, as the nation’s first Senate was inaugurated, with Patrice Talon, former President of Benin, elected as its leader. The event drew significant attention, […]
Bénin’s political landscape witnesses a dramatic shift as Patrice Talon, former President, assumes a new strategic role by taking charge of the Senate. This unexpected transition follows his peaceful handover of power to Romuald Wadagni, marking a seamless transfer that underscores the nation’s democratic resilience. An unprecedented election ushers in a new era In a […]