A la Une

How Mali’s collapse is reshaping west african security and Nigeria’s role

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Nigeria’s security landscape is increasingly intertwined with the instability unfolding across the Sahel, particularly in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. These nations, alongside Nigeria, now account for the highest number of conflict-related fatalities in West Africa. The coordinated assaults that struck Mali in April 2026—spanning from Kati to Gao and Mopti—serve as a stark reminder […]
A la Une

Mali’s risky break from ECOWAS: why west africa’s security can’t afford division

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When Fragmentation Becomes a Threat to West African Stability In the high-stakes arena of geopolitics, timing shapes destinies. The recent decision by the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)—comprising Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, all under military leadership—to sever ties with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) may appear as a bold assertion of […]
A la Une Actualités

Patrice Talon receives the prestigious Hounon d’honneur title from Bénin’s Vodun community

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In a historic first for a sitting head of state in Bénin, President Patrice Talon has been granted a unique distinction by the nation’s traditional leaders. On Saturday, May 2, 2026, the Vodun community officially bestowed upon him the honorary title of “Hounon d’honneur” as a tribute to his commitment to promoting endogenous spiritualities. A […]
Actualités

How an AI robot is tackling water purification in Bénin

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A Technological Breakthrough in Cotonou In the city of Cotonou, the startup SSaFE is redefining innovation. Spearheaded by chemical engineer Marielle Agbahoungbata, the company has developed an AI-driven “filtering robot” designed to convert polluted water into a usable resource, all while communicating in local languages. During a conference at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, Marielle Agbahoungbata […]
A la Une

Mali’s strategic crossroads: assimi goïta’s increased authority and the Kidal debacle

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By officially taking on the responsibilities of Minister of Defense in addition to his duties as Head of State, Colonel Assimi Goïta has finalized the centralization of power in Bamako. This decision, far from being a mere administrative adjustment, appears to signal a profound vulnerability: a faltering chain of command and an increasingly strained military […]
A la Une

Supporting adolescents living with HIV in Burkina Faso through mental health care

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The 13th AFRAVIH conference, currently taking place in Lausanne, Switzerland, is putting a spotlight on the psychological consequences of HIV. This international summit dedicated to the fight against the virus explores how the infection influences the mental health of those living with the condition. Featured speaker: Christine Kafando, a committed activist from Burkina Faso, made […]
Analyses

Protecting human rights defenders during crises in west africa

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Essential strategies to safeguard human rights defenders during crises In partnership with national human rights coalitions across Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Niger, and Sierra Leone, ISHR presents a comprehensive guide outlining best practices to protect human rights defenders and ensure their critical work continues amid crises. The enforcement of restrictive measures and other policies […]
Analyses

Sahel security: assessing regional responses and Russia’s strategic setback

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As Mali grapples with severe instability, its regional partners appear to be looking elsewhere. Neither the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) — intended to provide a collective security response for Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger — nor ECOWAS, which Bamako has exited, seems capable of exerting significant influence. Amidst official silences, pro forma condemnations, and […]