Welcome to Africa Now, your weekly newsletter for Africa, presenting the most important developments in the continent – news that matters.

COMMENTARY

Africa’s dilemma in the Russia-Ukraine crisis

On February 24, as Russia began its air and missile assaults in Ukraine’s Donbas area, it escalated into a full-fledged war. Most western countries condemned the attack, and economic measures were imposedClick here to read…

Hidden costs of Chinese projects in key African state of Kenya

Although Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta has defended the country’s strategy, many Kenyans have alleged that the China-funded projects are secretive, high cost and debt creating. While these projects have put extra burden on the people, these assets are at risk due to failure in debt servicing. Click here to read…

NEWS

Ethiopia men queue up to volunteer for Russia’s fight in Ukraine

Ethiopians with military records line up outside Moscow’s embassy in Addis Ababa in the hope to join the Russian army amid rumours $2,000 will be paid to each volunteer. Click here to read…

Rwanda jails Chinese national for torturing mine workers

The Chinese embassy in Rwanda said in a statement that it had ‘taken note’ of the ruling. Click here to read…

Western Sahara: Algeria Sets Conditions for Ambassadors Return to Spain

Algeria is attempting to put further pressure on Spain after Sanchez’ government changed its position to favour Morocco’s Autonomy Plan. Click here to read…

Niger approves hosting more European forces amid Mali withdrawal

President Momahed Bazoum proposed hosting more troops, a move opposed by some groups weary of foreign involvement. Click here to read…

Denmark in talks with Rwanda on transfer of asylum-seekers

Denmark is in talks with Rwanda about setting up a new procedure for transferring asylum seekers to the East African nation, mirroring a similar move by Britain announced last week. Click here to read…

Nigeria: U.S. Approves $1 Billion Arms Sale Despite Human Rights Concerns

The United States has approved a nearly $1 billion weapons sale to Nigeria after lawmakers had put a hold on the deal over concerns about possible human rights abuses by the Nigerian government. Click here to read…

France says Russian mercenaries staged ‘French atrocity’ in Mali

Russian mercenaries buried bodies near a Malian military base to falsely accuse France’s departing forces of leaving behind mass graves, the French military has claimed. Click here to read…

De Mistura plans tour in new quest for Western Sahara settlement

UN envoy to Western Sahara Staffan de Mistura announced his intent to undertake a second tour in the region for talks with the parties involved in the Western Sahara dispute. Click here to read…

Italy Signs Gas Deals in Angola, Congo to Cut Russia Ties

Italy struck new deals to boost natural gas imports from Angola and the Republic of Congo as Mario Draghi’s government rushes to cut energy dependence on Russia. Click here to read…

Algeria struggles to meet rising demand for its gas after Russian invasion of Ukraine

This could have been Algeria’s moment: Europe’s efforts to wean itself off Russian gas should have provided the north African country with a golden opportunity to maximise exports and carve out a bigger share of the continent’s energy market. Click here to read…

Libya oil company says field closed amid political impasse

Libya’s national oil company said Sunday it was forced to shut down an oil field amid a political impasse that threatened to drag the North African nation back into armed conflict. Click here to read…

Tunisian President Saied seizes control of electoral commission

Tunisia’s president has seized control of the country’s election commission, saying he would replace most of its members in a move that will entrench his one-man rule and cast doubt on electoral integrity. Click here to read…

Cameroon signs agreement with Russia in further boost to military ties

Cameroonian Defence Minister Joseph Beti Assomo has signed a military cooperation agreement in Moscow with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Choigou, as Wagner mercenaries are boosting Russia’s influence in West Africa. Click here to read…

Sudan: Anti-coup voices being silenced to subdue the resistance

The international community should not turn a blind eye to the ongoing human rights crisis in Sudan. Click here to read…

Somalia: At least six killed in Mogadishu attack near beach

Six people have been killed in a blast at a seaside restaurant in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu, an ambulance service official said. Click here to read…

Nigeria to hold 1st census in 17 years after security delay

Nigeria’s first census in 17 years will be conducted in 2023 in order to try to accurately survey its population, estimated at more than 200 million and the largest in Africa, the head of the national population agency announced Thursday. Click here to read…

MSF worker, dozens of civilians killed in fighting in South Sudan

Dozens of civilians, including a Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) worker, have been killed in the ongoing fighting in South Sudan’s Unity state, the medical charity has confirmed. Click here to read…

South Africa’s EFF leads peaceful protests at Eswatini borders

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), South Africa’s third-largest political party, has organised peaceful protests along the country’s borders in the KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga provinces with the neighbouring Eswatini. Click here to read…

East African Nations Agree on Force to Fight Congo Armed Groups

Leaders from four East African nations and the Democratic Republic of Congo agreed to form a regional force that will fight armed groups in eastern Congo. Click here to read…

Africa’s Last Absolute Monarchy Revives Airline After 23 Years
Eswatini, Africa’s last absolute monarchy, is set to launch a flag-carrier airline almost a quarter of a century after the previous one ceased operation in the country formerly known as Swaziland. Click here to read…

South Africa allocates $67 mn in relief for Durban flooding; 443 dead

Declaring a national state of disaster, South Africa has allocated $67 million to help those hit by floods that have killed at least 443 people in the eastern city of Durban and the surrounding Kwazulu-Natal province. Click here to read…

Google to Set Up Its First Africa Product Development Centre in Kenya

Alphabet Inc’s Google is investing in its first ever Africa product development centre in the Kenyan capital Nairobi, it said, as it positions itself to serve a growing base of internet users on the continent. Click here to read…

Mali junta says sticking to two-year transition

Mali’s ruling junta has announced the launch of a two-year transition “process” before elections are held, in defiance of West African bloc partners. Click here to read…

Ivory Coast: Achi reappointed PM, regional bank chief named VP

President Alassane Ouattara accepted the resignation of his entire cabinet last week ahead of a government reshuffle. Click here to read…

Chad: How Much Longer Will the Military Council Stay

One year ago, Chadian President Idriss Deby Itno was killed in clashes between rebels and government forces in Western Kanem province. Click here to read…

Two Morocco, Japanese Trade Agreements Enter into Force on Friday

Morocco’s embassy in Tokyo, Japan, celebrated on Friday the official start of two trade agreements that Morocco and Japan had originally signed in January 2020Click here to read…

Former Guinea president Conde released from house arrest

Guinea’s deposed president Alpha Conde has been released from house arrest and can receive visitors, including family members, the ruling military government announced. Click here to read…

ICC entreat Guinea-Bissau Membership
The president of the International Criminal Court urges Guinea-Bissau to become a member as proof of the unstable West African nation’s commitment to peace. Click here to read…

Former Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki dies at 90

Former Kenyan president Mwai Kibaki, who led the country from 2002 to 2013, has died at 90. Click here to read…

Former Botswana president faces criminal charges

Former Botswana president Ian Khama was summoned to appear before a court on Thursday to face multiple criminal charges. Click here to read…

Malawi solar mini-grid shows promise as way of electrifying rural Africa

Development experts say village-level solar power is a more promising way of bringing electricity to Africa’s remotest areas than conventional grids, which often do not reach them, tend to prioritise more privileged neighbourhoods and are often powered by polluting fossil-fuel generation. Click here to read…

Egyptian students enjoy broader chances to learn Chinese

In Egypt, the ways to learn Chinese have become increasingly diverse and considerate towards local youngsters who are willing to challenge themselves with the language famed for profoundness and splendid culture. Click here to read…

The African Union Must Ask What Space Can Do for Africa

The African outer space programme is a means to meet the ends of other flagship programmes in Agenda 2063 and needs more attention from the African Union. Click here to read…

Chinese envoy arrives in Zambia as another debt crisis looms for Lusaka

Zambia’s debt troubles will be the biggest headache for the new Chinese ambassador to Lusaka, who arrived on Sunday with a promise to “strengthen the friendly ties the two countries have enjoyed over the years”.Click here to read…

Morocco, Mauritania Keen to Consolidate Diplomatic, Economic Relations

Morocco and Mauritania have reiterated their commitment to advance diplomatic and economic relations to address issues of shared interest. Click here to read…

Tanzania, US sign investment agreements worth Sh11.7 trillion

Tanzania and the US have on Friday April 22, signed Seven agreements for business projects which are set to be implemented in Tanzania by investors and companies from the United States of America. Click here to read…

New Ebola case confirmed in Congo’s west Equateur province

A new Ebola case has been confirmed in Congo’s northwest Equateur Province in the city of Mbandaka, Congo health authorities said Saturday, declaring an outbreak nearly four months after the last one ended in the central African nation. Click here to read…

Russian mercenaries accused of human rights abuses in Central African Republic

When reports emerged that mercenaries from the Russian security company the Wagner Group were being sent to Ukraine, the people of the Central African Republic knew just what that meant. Click here to read…

INDIA IN AFRICA

UP CM Yogi Adityanath and Mauritius PM meet in Varanasi, discuss areas of cooperation

In an almost hour-long discussion held between the two, the CM promised Jagannath cooperation in helping natives of Mauritius with Indian origins connect to their roots. He also invited Mauritian investors to invest in the state as well as participate in the Global Investors Summit proposed to be held in the state soon. Click here to read…

UP can play prime role in economies of India, Mauritius: Yogi to Jugnauth

Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath met Prime Minister of Mauritius, Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, at Hotel Taj here on Friday. Click here to read…

EAM S Jaishankar calls on Mauritius PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Saturday called on the Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, who is on an eight-day visit to India to strengthen bilateral ties, in New Delhi. Click here to read…

Symbiosis School of International Studies launches M.A. programme in African Studies (Geo-economics and Foreign Policy)

Symbiosis School of International Studies (SSIS) has launched a Masters of Arts in African Studies (Geo-economics and Foreign Policy) that offers a holistic understanding of the African continent and its relation with major countries in the world. Click here to read…

Navy chief pays 3-day visit to Seychelles

Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar has held extensive talks with the top civilian and military brass of Seychelles to further boost bilateral maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. Click here to read…

Indian Navy Conducts Sail Training Capsule for South Africa Navy Officers

Indian Navy conducted a Sail Training capsule of three weeks duration for officers’ trainees (Sub Lieutenants) of Republic of South Africa Navy (RSAN) at Ocean Sailing Node (OSN) of Indian Navy at INS Mandovi, Goa from 28 Mar 22 to 16 Apr 22. Click here to read…

Chief Election Commissioner urges members of Indian Community to register as overseas voters

Chief Election Commissioner of India, Sushil Chandra urged Indian Community living in South Africa and Mauritius to register as overseas voters. Click here to read…

Kenyan Envoy Seeks Investment from India

Ambassador of Kenya, Willy Bet on Tuesday sought Indian investments to the African country in various sectors ranging from oil to healthcare. Click here to read…

Ghana Invites Indian Companies to Explore Investment Avenues In Mineral Refining

West African nation Ghana has invited Indian companies to invest in mineral refining capacity including gold, bauxite, lithium, diamond, crude oil and manganese. Click here to read…

At AYUSH summit, PM Modi tells how Ayurveda helped ex-Kenyan PM’s daughter regain eyesight

“It has been a struggle since I lost my vision in 2017. I have been to China and other countries and undergone various treatment modalities like acupuncture. Nothing seemed to have helped,” says Rosemary Odinga, daughter of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Click here to read…

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Hari Kumar visits the Seychelles to boost bilateral defence cooperation

Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral R. Hari Kumar, now on his maiden overseas visit since taking over the mantle of the CNS, visited the Indian Ocean archipelago of Seychelles on a three-day visit starting April 21. Click here to read…

Postal ballot facility for NRIs being contemplated: Chief Election Commissioner

Chief Election Commissioner Sushil Chandra urged Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) to register as overseas electors and told them about a proposal on postal ballots for NRIs being contemplated during a recent visit to South Africa and Mauritius, the Election Commission (EC) said on Friday. Click here to read…

Bolloré Africa Logistics acquisition expands MSC’s India presence

The acquisition gives MSC presence at Dakshin Bharat Gateway Terminal secures it a “growth-oriented” container-handling foothold on India’s east coast. Click here to read…

Watch video: How Indian Railways Modern Coach Factory is giving boost to Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India

The Modern Coach Factory got an order to manufacture as many as 90 rail coaches for Mozambique. Click here to read…

Tanzania: Mwinyi Appreciates India’s Support to Isles Development
President Hussein Mwinyi has commended the efforts taken by the Indian Embassy in Tanzania in supporting Zanzibar to implement its development projects, including the improvements of water supply for domestic use in the islands. Click here to read…

‘Earlier I couldn’t see, now I can’: Ex Kenya PM’s daughter praises Ayurveda

The comment came in the backdrop of the World Health Organisation launching its Global Centre for Traditional Medicine (GCTM) in Jamnagar in Gujarat a day ago. Click here to read…

African Swine Fever: Tripura to order culling of pigs in Sepahijala farm

After African Swine Fever cases were reported in a breeding farm in Sepahijala district, the Tripura government on Wednesday decided to go in for mass culling of infected pigs at the farm. Click here to read…

Indian Embassy in Madagascar holds plantation drive on Earth Day

Indian Embassy in Madagascar organised a plantation drive with over 200 saplings of native trees to mark the 52nd Earth Day on Friday. Click here to read…

Cheap Indian wheat faces quality checks, high freight cost for Egypt export

Indian wheat could offer a cheaper option for top importer Egypt but will have to overcome quality controls set by the country’s agriculture ministry as well as higher freight costs. Click here to read…

After her recovery, India repatriates Seychelles Coast Guard sailor who had mid-sea medical emergency

India has repatriated a woman sailor of the Seychelles Coast Guard, for whom India provided mid-sea assistance and medical evacuation during an emergency, while she was off India’s Western coast, near Lakshadweep. Click here to read…

Powering Electric Two- and Three-Wheelers with Rural Minigrids in Nigeria and India

Imagine a future where a restauranteur in rural Nigeria flips on her shop lights and pulls cold beers from the fridge as the evening crowd trickles inClick here to read…

Five held in Seychelles: Fishers want MEA to intervene

International Fishermen Development Trust (INFIDET) President P Justin Antony sent a representation to the Indian External Affairs Minister on Wednesday requesting a diplomatic talk between India and Seychelles for the release of five fishing captains and their vessels. Click here to read…

Welcome to Africa Now, your weekly newsletter for Africa, presenting the most important developments in the continent – news that matters.

COMMENTARY

Africa’s dilemma in the Russia-Ukraine crisis

On March 2, the UNGA in New York voted on a resolution calling for the withdrawal of the Russian military from Ukraine; 141 countries out of 193 voted in favour of the resolution criticising Russia during the summit. Click here to read…

NEWS

UK to give illegal migrants a one-way ticket to Rwanda

British Home Secretary Priti Patel in the Central African nation to sign the controversial deal condemned by critics as shameful. Click here to read…

New Members of Somalia’s Parliament Sworn In

More than 80% of Somalia’s new parliament members were sworn in Thursday, following repeated poll delays and an ongoing feud between the president and the prime minister. Click here to read…

Ivory Coast prime minister and government resign

President Alassane Ouattara accepts resignation and says he plans to slim down the size of the cabinet, with appointments to be made next week. Click here to read…

DRC: M23 rebels ready to retreat from captured villages

The March 23 Movement (M23) rebellion announced on Sunday its withdrawal from the villages that came under its control at the end of the week in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Click here to read…

Germany tells Mali to halt work with Russian mercenaries

Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock also made continued German support contingent upon holding fresh elections during a trip to the crisis-ridden state. The military junta has postponed elections for at least five years. Click here to read…

Departure of second US envoy for Horn of Africa exposes Ethiopia and Sudan policy rifts

Disagreements within the State Department are understood to have hindered David Satterfield, making him the second ambassador to leave the position. Click here to read…

Algeria accuses Morocco of killing three in Western Sahara

Algeria accused its neighbour Morocco of killing three people in an attack on the edge of the contested territory of Western Sahara on April 12. Click here to read…

Gambia: National Assembly to Swear in Newly Elected Members Today

The National Assembly of the Gambia will today 14th April 2022, swear in the newly elected members, marking the beginning of the Sixth Legislature. Click here to read…

Zimbabwe: Mnangagwa is losing key allies who sanitised the military coup

After coming to power through a military coup that ousted long-time ruler Robert Mugabe in November 2017, President Emmerson Mnangagwa attracted businesspeople both at home and abroad with his mantra: Zimbabwe is ‘open for business’. Click here to read…

Uganda to be blacklisted over money laundering – Reports

Uganda’s financial industry risks being blacklisted by international systems for failure to put in place measures that can effectively prevent financial crimes like money laundering. Click here to read…

South Sudan President Kiir integrates rival’s officers into army

A unified army is a central pillar of the long-running peace process in the world’s youngest nation. Click here to read…

US approves arms sale to Nigeria despite human rights concerns

The United States has approved a nearly $1bn weapons sale to Nigeria after legislators had put a hold on the deal over concerns about possible human rights abuses by the Nigerian government. Click here to read…

Egypt steps up support to Sudan ahead of Nile dam third filling

Egypt sent aid and logistical and humanitarian support to Sudan as the two countries stress the need to continue consultations and mutual coordination on Ethiopia’s controversial Nile dam. Click here to read…

395 dead, dozens missing after ‘apocalyptic’ floods batter South Africa

“Sadly, the number of fatalities continues to increase with the latest figure standing at 395,” regional head of the disaster managing ministry Sipho Hlomuka said in a statement. Click here to read…

Democratic Republic of Congo invites Big Oil to world’s second-largest rainforest

The DRC government gave the green signal to auction 16 oil blocks in Cuvette Centrale, a sensitive ecosystem in the Congo rainforest, last week. Click here to read…

Draghi Bets on Africa for Italy’s Exit from Russian Gas

Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi is chasing a raft of natural gas deals in Africa as he seeks to cut energy ties with Russia. Click here to read…

Italy and Spain Hold Talks to Head Off Tension Over Algerian Gas

Diplomats from Italy and Spain are holding talks after Rome’s move to secure large volumes of Algerian gas stoked concerns in Madrid that its own access to the key fuel could be affected, according to people familiar with the situation. Click here to read…

Italy to Buy More Algerian Gas in Bid to Cut Russia Reliance

Italy will boost natural gas imports from Algeria as the European country seeks to reduce its dependence on Russian energy following the invasion of UkraineClick here to read…

Morocco considers onshore, offshore options for LNG import facility

Morocco is studying options at several ports to build a floating or land-based facility to import liquefied natural gas (LNG), Energy Minister Leila Benali said on Friday. Click here to read…

75 Years of Operations: A Brief History of Sudan Airways

Sudan Airways is one of the oldest African airlines in operation, but there’s a reason you don’t see it too often. Click here to read…

Tunisia offers to sell its shares in Nouvlair airline firm

Tunisia on Friday offered for sale its shares in the Nouvlair airline company confiscated from a son-in-law of late President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali who was toppled in the 2011 uprising, Karama Holding Company said. Click here to read…

Africa’s Narco-State: An Attempted Coup and Drug Trafficking in Guinea-Bissau

On February 1, 2022, men armed with machine guns and assault rifles attacked the presidential palace in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau. Click here to read…

Coup: Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea given timelines to return to democratic rule

An extraordinary meeting of the ECOWAS Commission has ended in Accra with heads of states giving extended timelines to the coup countries of Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea to initiate processes towards the return to democratic and constitutional rule. Click here to read…

Russians unlikely to leave Libya, despite Ukraine war

Despite rumours that Russia’s Wagner will fight in Ukraine, analysts expect the paramilitary group to stay in Libya. Click here to read…

Brutal murder highlights rise of South Africa’s xenophobic vigilantes

Organised groups fill gap with violence as authority of ruling African National Congress wanes. Click here to read…

Prayers but no peace talks: Chad rivals bide time in Qatar

In the month since Chadian rebels and envoys of the military government started peace talks in Qatar, the two sides have prayed together most days but refused to face each other across the negotiating table. Click here to read…

Guinea junta turns up the heat on bauxite miners

The military junta that took control of Guinea in September is heaping pressure on multinational miners to refine raw bauxite, a raw material used to make aluminium, to more advanced materials before export. Click here to read…

Angola sets its sights on the global coffee market

Angolan coffee is a brew long coveted by aficionados around the world. In the 1970s, around a quarter of a million tonnes of this original Angolan black gold was produced a year. Click here to read…

Botswana detects new coronavirus variant

A new variant of Covid-19 discovered in Botswana is believed to be a mutation of the Omicron variant first detected in southern Africa late last year. Click here to read…

Kenya Airways Gets a Government Bailout To Allow Reorganization

Kenya Airways will receive another round of help from the government as it battles extreme financial struggles to stay afloat. The state treasury will loosen its purse strings once again just weeks after approving more than $170 million for the airline. Click here to read…

Africa’s dilemma in the Russia-Ukraine crisis

On February 24, as Russia began its air and missile assaults in Ukraine’s Donbas area, it escalated into a full-fledged war. Most western countries condemned the attack, and economic measures were imposed. Click here to read…

Ethiopia: Seizing the fragile opening for peace

While the situation remains fragile, the conditions for peace seem to have ripened in Ethiopia. Click here to read…

Africa investors reveal agribusiness opportunities in Zambia, Ghana and beyond

The local production of processed food items that are currently imported presents attractive opportunities in Zambia, according to Tue Nyboe Andersen, managing director of Lusaka-based Kukula Capital. Click here to read…

Cameroon Cholera vaccination campaign ends

A Cameroon five-day campaign to complete cholera vaccination for over 800,000 Cameroonians concludes today. Click here to read…

Turkey says normalising relations with Egypt ‘vital’

“Relations with Egypt must be improved. The two countries’ ties are significant for many regions. Reciprocal reappointment of ambassadors is possible,” Click here to read…

Draghi Heads to Algeria as Italy Seeks to Cut Russia Gas Imports

Mario Draghi will visit Algeria on Monday as part of a plan to wean Italy off Russian natural gas. Click here to read…

Zambia Starts Mass Export of Avocados to Europe

Zambia has started the mass export of avocados to Europe with the first consignment of over 37 tons, a senior government official said Friday. Click here to read…

Togo: Government allocates new monthly allowance for preschool and primary school directors

In Togo, the State will now allocate a new monthly allowance of 12,000 CFA francs to directors of preschools and public elementary schools. Click here to read…

Niger welcomes German Foreign minsiter

After visiting Mali, Germany’s top diplomat ANNELINA BERBOCK was in Niger as part of her tour to strengthen her country’s relations with leaders in the Sahel region. Click here to read…

Gota’s gotta go, Lankans say, Destination Uganda?

Visitors to one of the many homes of the embattled President of Sri Lanka, Gotabaya Rajapaksa — now facing a wave of street protests over a crippling economic meltdown — almost always stop to admire an unusual ‘aquarium’ in the living room. Click here to read…

Tanzania’s First Female President Wants to Bring Her Nation in From the Cold

Samia Suluhu Hassan became the only female head of government in Africa when her predecessor suddenly died. She is setting a new course. Click here to read…

South African army extends mission against Mozambique rebels

The deployment of South Africa’s military in northern Mozambique has been extended while its role has shifted from aggressively fighting Islamic extremist rebels to a peacekeeping effort. Click here to read…

INDIA IN AFRICA

Biden nominates Indian-American diplomat Rachna Sachdeva as his envoy for Mali

US President Joe Biden has nominated Indian-American diplomat Rachna Sachdeva Korhonen as his envoy to Mali, the White House has said, the third such nomination of an Indian-American in over a month. Click here to read…

India-Kenya conducts round 2 of foreign office consultations, reviews bilateral ties

In a key development, India and Kenya held the second round of Foreign Office Consultations (FoC) and reviewed the bilateral relations in areas including politics and finance. Click here to read…

Egypt turns to India for wheat

Egypt has agreed to buy wheat from India following disruption in supplies because of the Ukraine war. The African nation is looking to import 1 million tonnes (mt) from India, with an order for 240,000 tonnes in April. Click here to read…

Ghana India Trade Advisory Chamber to support Youth in Agriculture

Mr Dominic Oduro-Antwi, the President of the Ghana India Trade Advisory Chamber, said the Chamber is ready to support and provide direction for the public, especially the youth, willing to venture into agriculture. Click here to read…

India’s Haryana state explores textile trade opportunities in Ethiopia

Indian state of Haryana will soon begin consultations with textile industry to explore the feasibility of trade and investment with Ethiopia. Click here to read…

Egypt has approved India as a wheat supplier: Goyal

Egypt, one of the top importers of wheat from Russia and Ukraine, has approved India as a wheat supplier, commerce minister Piyush Goyal said on Friday. Click here to read…

India Teams with African Island Nation Madagascar to Fight Climate Change

Madagascar, the fourth-largest island in the world, is one its lowest emitters of carbon dioxide. Nevertheless, it is experiencing the cataclysmic effects of climate change first hand. Click here to read…

Indian Navy evacuates sick Seychelles Coast Guard official

The Indian Navy evacuated a crew member of a Seychelles Coast Guard ship after she reported a health problem when the vessel was on a voyage from Kochi to Victoria on Thursday, April 14. Click here to read…

Six Nigerian Army officers to get advanced flying training in India

This marks the continuation of a contract signed in April 2021 for imparting Phase-I flying training to six Nigerian Army aviation officers, which was successfully executed in December 2021. Click here to read…

EU defends IP waiver compromise amid pressure on India, South Africa to reject it

A broad international platform of activists, unions and experts has urged India and South Africa to reject the leaked compromise on intellectual property rights on COVID-19 vaccines, which the European Commission considers the ‘most promising path’ to resolve the issue. Click here to read…

Industry Experts discuss the growth and future of Fintech in Nigeria and India in symposium by CLI College, Nigeria and Christ University, India

There are over 200 FinTech companies in Nigeria offering financial solutions and inclusion for Nigerians and indeed Africans. Click here to read…

‘Indianish but not Indian’ describes Mauritius best

From garam masala made with Madagascar spices to fritters stuffed with prawns and béchamel sauce, local meals in Mauritius are familiar yet so exotic. Click here to read…

India’s tech geeks face bleak future in Tanzania

For 34-year-old Maisam Raj, the biggest challenge of his job as a creative head at Jema Printers in Tanzania’s bustling city of Dar es Salaam is not the complex logos and designs he has to create to impress corporate customers, but the number of hours he must toil every day to get things done. Click here to read…

To counter China, India-US strengthen Western Indian Ocean partnership

This week, the foreign and defence ministers from India and the United States (US) met for a 2+2 meeting in Washington DC. Click here to read…

Welcome to Africa Now, your weekly newsletter for Africa, presenting the most important developments in the continent – news that matters.

COMMENTARY

Justice for Thomas Sankara

This week, Blaise Compaoré was jailed for his role in the murder of Burkinabe revolutionary Thomas Sankara –but real justice can only be won by a movement that fights to bring Sankara’s socialist vision back to life. Click here to read…

Corridor in uncertainty

The Asia-Africa Growth Corridor, a joint initiative of India and Japan, was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a meeting of the African Development Bank in 2017Click here to read…

NEWS

Morocco, Spain mend ties after change in policy on Western Sahara

Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez and Moroccan King Mohammad VI met in Rabat after a year of tense relations. Spain said it backed the kingdom’s plan of limited autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty for Western Sahara. Click here to read…

EXCLUSIVE- Draft Sudan deal seeks to cement military’s grip

Factions aligned with Sudan’s military have drawn up a deal to form a transitional government that would cement the army’s control and bypass pro-democracy groups it shared power with before an October coup. Click here to read…

Russia blocks UN security council request for investigation into Moura massacre

A UN Security Council request for independent investigations into the alleged Moura massacre in Mali has been blocked by Russia. Click here to read…

Despite a recent agreement, new clashes broke out between supporters of South Sudan’s rivals

Less than a week days after a major agreement was sealed between South Sudan’s rival leaders, fighting erupted in the North of the country. Click here to read…

Sparring Somali leaders now at odds over expulsion of African Union envoy

Somalia’s prime minister on Thursday expelled the African Union representative because of “acts incompatible with his status” but the president rejected the order, signalling a new rift between the leaders of the Horn of Africa nation. Click here to read…

Tunisia to compensate victims of revolution

Tunisian President Kais Saied, facing political and economic crisis and accusations that he took power in a coup, announced compensation on Sunday for the families of those killed and wounded in the 2011 revolution that brought democracy to the country. Click here to read…

DR Congo’s Tshisekedi signs EAC Treaty

Tshisekedi’s accession signature immediately brought the DR Congo into the realms and provisions of all the protocols and regional policies of the EAC. Click here to read…

Nigeria’s electricity grid collapses for the second time in a month

Nigeria’s national electricity grid has collapsed for the second time in a month, the federal ministry of power said on Saturday, leaving the parts of the country it serves, including capital Abuja and Africa’s biggest city Lagos, without power. Click here to read…

Burkina ex-president moved to home after house arrest

Burkina Faso’s military-led government said in a statement that former president Kabore would return to his home after house arrest. Click here to read…

Eastern Libyan military commanders urge closure of road to west

Military commanders in eastern Libya said on Saturday they had suspended participation in a U.N.-backed joint military council, accusing the Tripoli-based government of failing to hand power to a new cabinet and calling for the road west to be closed. Click here to read…

The Gambia votes for a new National Assembly

Gambians to vote for 53 legislators on a five-year term, with President Barrow picking five others, including the parliament’s president. Click here to read…

What is happening with Chad’s peace talks in Doha?

About 300 rebels landed in the Qatari capital, seeking a peace deal, but find themselves in a curious cohabitation. Click here to read…

Guinea junta chiefs warns mining giants over inequality

The head of Guinea’s ruling junta, Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, has warned foreign mining companies to build processing factories locally and to share revenues with the country equally. Click here to read…

Angola: UN Supports Angola’s Transition to Middle Income Country

The resident coordinator of the United Nations in Angola Zahira Virami reaffirmed Wednesday the support of the UN system in the preparation process of Angola’s transition from Least Developed Country to Middle Income Country. Click here to read…

New COVID-19 variant discovered in Botswana

A new COVID-19 variant has been discovered in Botswana, a government official said. The new variant, which has characteristics of both the Alpha and Delta variants, has yet to be named. Click here to read…

Kenya’s Odinga running his fifth presidential race. Why outcome means so much for Kenya

“Odinga has a common touch that resonates with Kenyans who have felt locked out of the power matrix controlled by two ethnic groups.” Click here to read…

Life sentence for Burkinabe ex-leader Compaoré for Sankara murder

The long-awaited verdict brings to close a six-month trial for the assassination of Thomas Sankara on October 15, 1987. Click here to read…

Separatist commander killed in infighting in Cameroon’s restive Anglophone region

Security and local sources said on Saturday that a notorious separatist commander has been killed in Cameroon’s war-torn Anglophone region of Northwest in clashes between rival separatist groups. Click here to read…

Ghana on high alert against terrorist attacks – Minister of National Security assures

The Minister of National Security, Albert Kan-Dapaah, has given the assurance that the country will be able to respond and ward off any terrorist attacks in the country. Click here to read…

Coptic Christian Priest Killed in Egypt’s Alexandria

On Thursday 7 April 2022, the Ministry of Interior announced on its official Facebook page the arrest of a 60-year-old man who stabbed an archpriest to death in Alexandria. Click here to read…

US Alarmed by Reports of Atrocities in Ethiopia’s Tigray Region

The United States expressed concern Friday about reports of ethnically motivated atrocities in Ethiopia’s Tigray region. Click here to read…

Draghi Heads to Algeria as Italy Seeks to Cut Russia Gas Imports

Mario Draghi will visit Algeria on Monday as part of a plan to wean Italy off Russian natural gas. Click here to read…

Zambia’s President Hichilema goes eight months without salary

The Zambian leader, who was elected into office last August, says a salary was not his motivation for seeking public office. Click here to read…

Togo dismisses more teachers in new dispute with teachers’ union

The Togolese government has dismissed nine teachers, within a week of firing 137 others, even as the teacher’s union continues to demand that the Faure Gnassigbe administration honour its promises to them. Click here to read…

The problem with gaming in Uganda

The gaming industry in Uganda is highly informal, with individual-owned gaming parlours charging per hour of game time. However, the opportunity is huge. Click here to read…

Tanzania commemorates 100 years of founding leader Julius Nyerere

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan on Saturday joined fellow citizens in commemorating 100 years of the birth of founding leader Julius Nyerere. Click here to read…

Negotiating Local Business Practices with China in Benin

Beninese officials have shown how even small countries can use close coordination between ministries and other negotiating tactics to strike deals with Chinese counterparts that better protect their own interests. Click here to read…

Mozambique: All eyes on suitors as they await news on bid round qualification

Thirteen players — including two from Russia — will hear this week if they have succeeded in their plans to take part in Mozambique’s upcoming licensing round. Click here to read…

29,000 COVID-19 Vaccines Expired in Botswana: Official

At least 29,000 AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines have already expired and some will expire at the end of April in Botswana, an official said Saturday. Click here to read…

INDIA IN AFRICA

Haryana signs collaboration deal with Ethiopia to strengthen trade, investment ties

The FFC was signed by Haryana’s Principal Secretary Yogender Choudhary and Ethiopian Ambassador Dr Tizita Mulugeta. Click here to read…

India, Kenya holds 2nd Foreign Office Consultations, review bilateral relations

India and Kenya on Friday held the 2nd round of Foreign Office Consultations (FoC) and reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations including political and economicClick here to read…

MoU with Congo-based foundation

MS University has signed an MoU with the Vinmart Foundation of the Democratic Republic of the Congo for our scholarships to students of Congo who will be coming to Vadodara to pursue higher education. Click here to read…

Haryana, Ethiopian panel sign trade framework

During the two-day meeting of the Haryana-Ethiopia Investment Commission (EIC), a framework of collaboration (FFC) was signed between Haryana and the EIC. Click here to read…

Madagascar joins India-backed Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure

Madagascar has become the 30th country to join the India-backed Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) that aims to help small island nations develop resilience to deal with the adverse impact of climate change. Click here to read…

Fishermen team meets Kanimozhi for release of five captains from Seychelles

Thoothukudi MP and DMK leader Kanimozhi has assured a delegation from the International Fishermen Development Trust (INFIDET) that she will take efforts for the release of five captains and their boats detained in Seychelles. Click here to read…

Rwandans in India pay tribute to genocide victims

The Rwandan High Commission in New Delhi, India in collaboration with the India Africa Trade Council commemorated the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi on April 7Click here to read…

Why India’s beautiful flowers miss the plane of exports while Kenya & Ethiopia fly high

Ethiopia and Kenya have promoted floriculture in key markets, offered tax holidays, organised producers and worked to create infrastructure for farmers. Click here to read…

Why is a dragon carved on Jain temple in Mangalore? Medieval Africa-China trade holds answer

While many of us have heard of Indian interactions with Southeast Asia and China, or even Arabia, Africa is a gaping hole in how we think about premodern trade. But it was one of the most prosperous. Click here to read…

Review: India-Africa Relations: Changing Horizons by Rajiv Bhatia

A meticulously detailed book that tells us why Africa matters so much to India and presents good suggestions on how the India-Africa relationship should be enhanced and pushed ahead. Click here to read…

Chibuzor, who once ruled Kolkata football, dies in Nigeria

Nigerian striker Chibuzor Nwakanma – the first foreigner to play for Kolkata’s big three clubs and whose unique nose for goals often set the field afire with his special somersault celebration – is no more. Click here to read…

Egyptian Govt expresses interest to buy Indian wheat

Team from Cairo to visit New Delhi next week, to inspect facilities for imports by supplies and commodities authorityClick here to read…

Nigeria Exports Crude Oil worth NGN774.5 Bln to India in 4Q

Nigeria exported crude oil worth 774.5 billion Nigerian naira ($1.86 billion) to India in the fourth quarter of 2021, the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics said in a report. Click here to read…

Paree Sanitary Pads Eyes Global Expansion, Enters Tanzania, Africa, and Nepal

With an objective to cater to women’s needs and make sanitary pads easily accessible, Paree Sanitary Pad has now expanded its operations to Tanzania, Africa, and Nepal. Click here to read…

Indian community to strengthen economic relations with Ghana

The Indian community in Ghana has said it will expand business operations as part of efforts to boost investment and increase its economic relations with the country. Click here to read…

Welcome to Africa Now, your weekly newsletter for Africa, presenting the most important developments in the continent – news that matters.

COMMENTARY

Heard of Eritrea, Africa’s Ukraine?

There was a little-known African nation that fought for its freedom from Ethiopia, the big bully next door. The little guy won there too. Click here to read…

UN’s Ukraine vote shows the racial subtext of global politics

“Like intercourse in Victorian England . . . race is a taboo topic in modern well-mannered society.” That is how the late R J Vincent, a extremely regarded British worldwide relations theorist, started his 1982 article, ‘Race in worldwide relations’. Click here to read…

NEWS

Ethiopia declares humanitarian truce in war-ravaged Tigray

Ethiopia’s government has announced what it called an “indefinite humanitarian truce” in its war-ravaged Tigray region, saying the action was necessary to allow unimpeded relief supplies into the area. Click here to read…

DR Congo to join EAC next week

The Democratic Republic of Congo will officially be admitted to the East Africa Community (EAC) next week, adding a 90 million market for the bloc. Click here to read…

Mali: ECOWAS leaders meet in Accra to debate sanctions

West Africa’s regional bloc ECOWAS leaders on Friday staged a summit over Mali’s political crisis, three months after slapping tough sanctions on the Sahelian nation. Click here to read…

Tunisia: Mass anti-Saied protests take place in capital Tunis

Thousands of Tunisians have taken to the streets of the capital Tunis in the latest of a series of rallies against President Kais Saied, accused by opponents of grabbing power amid a deepening political crisis. Click here to read…

More than 30 killed in twin attacks in Somalia

The death toll from twin attacks in central Somalia on Wednesday night has climbed above 30, the Beledweyne district police chief told AFP on Thursday, with the Al-Shabaab insurgent group saying it was targeting politicians ahead of elections. Click here to read…

Burkina Faso: Ousted ruling party calls for President Kabore’s “immediate release”

The party of ousted Burkina Faso president Roch Marc Christian Kabore on Thursday demanded his “immediate release” saying his house arrest is more like detention. Click here to read…

Rwanda to Host Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly

Rwanda has promised to successfully and safely host the 145th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly (IPU) due in Kigali in October 2022.
https://allafrica.com/stories/202203250607.html” target=”_blank”>Click here to read…

China’s version of mediation for the Horn of Africa

Beijing is sending its Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa to countries in the region, with a promise to help reach lasting peace, via economic development, while leaving local political settings unaffected. Click here to read…

Sudan’s Military is Brutally Suppressing Protests

In Sudan, where prices for bread and fuel have skyrocketed following the military coup, people are once again taking to the streets. Click here to read…

Niger Attempts Peace Talks with Jihadists Following Attack

Following the most recent jihadist attack on Thursday, March 17, that killed 21 people, the government of Niger has decided to continue attempting peace talks with the militants. Click here to read…

Turkey urges Libya to avoid steps that could renew clashes

The Turkish National Security Council urged Wednesday all parties in Libya for restraint and refraining from steps that could cause new clashes. Click here to read…

Al-Shabab Increases Attacks as Elections Drag in Somalia

Al-Shabab mounted one of its deadliest attacks Wednesday, targeting elections at the regional presidential palace in Beledweyne town. Forty-eight people were killed and more than 100 others wounded. Click here to read…

China planning another military base in Africa, after Djibouti now eyes Equatorial Guinea

China is planning to build a military base in Equatorial Guinea, which once completed, would be China’s second base in AfricaClick here to read…
Tanzania viewpoint: What President Samia has achieved in her first year

If a happiness index was taken within the last few weeks, it would have shown Tanzanians to be the happiest people in the world, according to some Tanzanians on social media. Click here to read…

Egypt, UAE, Israel leaders meet for first ever three-way summit

Concerns over the war in Ukraine, as well as the Iran nuclear deal, are reportedly on the agenda. Click here to read…

Osinbajo: Any Muslim who supports RCCG member traitor to Islam – MURIC warns

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has warned that any political party that picks any member of the Redeemed Church of Christ Group (RCCG) will kiss the Aso Rock goodbye. Click here to read…

Spain PM eyes ‘more solid’ Morocco ties after Western Sahara U-turn

Under attack over Spain’s decision to change its stance on Western Sahara, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Wednesday defended the move as crucial to securing a “more solid relationship” with Morocco. Click here to read…

Ex-Togo premier elected head of UN labour agency

Gilbert Houngbo, the former prime minister of Togo, was on Friday elected the next head of the International Labour Organization, and will become the first African to lead the UN agency. Click here to read…

Blinken to visit Israel, West Bank, Morocco and Algeria

The Russia-Ukraine war, Arab-Israeli normalisation and the two-state solution are on the agenda during the US secretary of state’s visit, the United States says. Click here to read…

Uganda: Court issues warrant for author in exile in Germany

The author fled to Germany earlier this year, the second government critic to leave Uganda in less than six months. Click here to read…

Mauritius challenges UK rights over Indian Ocean domain name

The right to license lucrative online domain names favoured by cryptocurrency firms has become the latest battlefield in the escalating dispute between Mauritius and the UKClick here to read…

Qatar takes up mediation role in Chad talks

Qatar has agreed to act as a mediator in Chad peace talks in a bid to unblock the fledgling process, officials and rebel groups said Friday. Click here to read…

Guinea Expands Role in Mining Sector with Plan to Ship Exports

Guinea’s government plans to export half of miners’ output in a push to exert more control over the lifeblood of its economy. Click here to read…

Young teacher committed to introducing Chinese language in Botswana

Excitement and joy could be felt as students at Legae English Medium School in Gaborone, Botswana, greeted their teacher Goitseone Ishmael with the Chinese phrase nihao, which literally translates to “hello” in English, before she began her Chinese language lesson. Click here to read…

Angola on a mission to hunt for European investors

The first-ever EU-Angola Business forum took place this Thursday in Brussels with an objective of convincing European investors to bet on Angola’s reforms to support private sector investment and business links. Click here to read…

Cameroon Starts Cholera Vaccinations as Outbreak Kills 62 Since October

An outbreak of cholera in Cameroon has claimed 62 lives since October, prompting the central African nation to vaccinate people against the water-borne disease. Click here to read…

INDIA IN AFRICA

India-Madagascar chamber of commerce launched in Antananarivo

The Indian embassy in Antananarivo organized a trade promotion event on Thursday, which saw the launch of the India-Madagascar Chamber of Commerce in the capital city of the island nation. Click here to read…

India’s HAL To Help Uganda with Maintenance of Sukhoi Su-30 Fighter Jets as Russia Gets Entangled in Ukraine War

The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the sanctions imposed on Moscow have put countries importing defence equipment from Moscow in a spot. However, this crisis has opened a window of opportunity for India. Click here to read…

India to boost wheat exports to fill void left by Ukraine conflict

Egypt, Israel, Oman, Nigeria and South Africa have approached India to secure wheat supplies, two government officials said, as the Russia-Ukraine conflict entered its fourth week, threatening a global food crisis. Click here to read…

Steel major JSPL Mauritius’ arm makes $ 357-mn prepayment to lenders

Homegrown steel major JSPL on Sunday said its subsidiary in Mauritius has made a prepayment of USD 357 million to lenders. Click here to read…

Opening of Opportunities for Tamil Nadu Businessmen in Ethiopia

The India Africa Trade Council-COMESA organized the India Ethiopia Trade Conference which was attended by the Business community in South India especially Tamil Nadu. Click here to read…

KQ to start daily flights to India on easing of curbs

Kenya Airways will now fly daily to India after the Asian country lifted the restrictions that had limited the national carrier to three flights a week, coming as a major boost to the airline that is struggling financially. Click here to read…

India, Namibia partnership grows progressively

Indian High commissioner to Namibia Prashant Agrawal said a defining feature for Namibia and India is confronting and overcoming challenges that set precedents on the relations and cooperation between the two states. Click here to read…

Doctor alleges smuggling of PPE kits to Africa

The Doctor Was Working In A Hospital In Congo During The Pandemic When She Allegedly Saw Illegally Sourced PPE Kits Being Used ThereClick here to read…

Mumbai-Seychelles travel links boosted at OTM – India’s biggest travel trade show

Air Seychelles and Tourism Seychelles had the opportunity to promote their services, products and best travel options to the island nation at the OTM travel show in India. Click here to read…

Airtel Africa plans to raise $194 million via debt from IFC for capex needs

The debt financing package for Airtel Africa Plc will comprise a direct $150 million investment from Washington-based IFC and an additional $44 million in mobilisation from its Managed Co-Lending Portfolio Program (MCPP). Click here to read…

DEFENCE

• 19th edition of India-US Military Cooperation Group.
• Sea Phase of MILAN 2022.
• Four projects offered to the Indian Industry for design & development under Make-I category.
• Virtual summit of Quad leaders.
• Postponement of DefExpo 2022.
• Four-day Indo-Pacific Military Health Exchange (IPMHE) conference.
• Ninth Edition of India – Sri Lanka Bilateral Maritime Exercise SLINEX.
• Chief of Army Australia along with four member delegation is visiting India from 08 to 11 March 2022.
• Exercise Dharma Guardian-2022 Culminates at Belgaum (Karnataka).
• 5th NSA Level Meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave.
• 18 platforms identified for industry led Design & Development.
• Accidental firing of missile.
• 15th round China-India Corps Commander Level Meeting.
• Chair of Excellence in memory Gen Bipin Rawat at the United Service Institution of India (USI).

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

Africa

Guinea

• US sanctioned two Hizbu’llah financiers in Guinea.

Nigeria

• Former Boko Haram terrorists graduated from de-radicalisation programme: Nigerian authorities.

Afghanistan

• IS-KP terrorist of Indian origin killed in Afghanistan.

Pakistan

• At least 56 people died in a suicide bomb attack during Friday prayers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir

• Unidentified terrorists killed a village Sarpanch in Srinagar.
• NIA official searched different locations in Kashmir in connection with terror-funding.
• Two people killed in a grenade blast in Srinagar.
• One killed in an explosion outside district court complex in Udhampur.

Left-Wing Extremism

• Police unearthed explosive dump in Telangana.
• Police arrested a Maoist from Bihar.
• Police arrested two Maoists, including a key leader, from Assam.

Khalistan-inspired Extremism

• NIA filed charge-sheet against six Khalistani terrorists in Punjab bomb blast case.
• NIA filed charge-sheet against five Khalistani terrorists in case of smuggling of narcotics, weapons and explosives across the India-Pakistan International Border.

Islamic Extremism

• NIA filed charge-sheet against two IS terrorists in ‘Voice of Hind’ case.
• NIA searched a location in connection with IS-KP case.
• NIA filed charge-sheet against two HuT terrorists in ‘Madurai Iqbal HuT’ case.

Narcotics Trafficking

• NIA filed charge-sheet against 16 Narcotic traffickers in ‘Mundra Port, Gujarat’ case.
• Police arrested drug trafficker from Poonch.

Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN) Cases

• NIA arrested a FICN trafficker from IGI airport, Delhi.

DEFENCE

19th edition of India-US Military Cooperation Group.

The 19th edition of India-US Military Cooperation Group (MCG) meeting was held in Agra, Uttar Pradesh on March 01-02, 2022. The meeting was co-chaired by Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC) Air Marshal BR Krishna from the Indian side and Deputy Commander, US Indo-Pacific Command Lieutenant General Stephen D Sklenka from the US side. The discussions focussed on strengthening the ongoing defence engagements between the two sides and mulled on new initiatives under the ambit of existing cooperation mechanism.
The India-US MCG is a forum established to progress defence cooperation between the countries through regular talks at the strategic and operational levels between Headquarters, Integrated Defence Staff and the US Indo-Pacific Command.
For more information: Click here to read…

Sea Phase of MILAN 2022.

The sea phase of the 11th edition of MILAN which witnessed participation of 26 ships, one submarine and 21 aircraft, culminated on 04 Mar 22. A series exercises were undertaken in all three dimensions of naval operations to enhance compatibility, interoperability, mutual understanding and maritime cooperation amongst the partner Navies.
For more information: Click here to read…

Four projects offered to the Indian Industry for design & development under Make-I category.

Ministry of Defence (MoD), has offered four projects to the Indian Industry for design & development under Make-I category of Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020. The industry will be provided financial support for prototype development of these projects. The list of projects which were accorded ‘Approval In-Principle (AIP)’ by Collegiate Committee of MoD is as follow:

• Indian Air Force: Communication Equipment with Indian Security Protocols (Routers, Switches, Encryptors, VoIP Phones and their software)
• Indian Air Force: Airborne Electro Optical pod with Ground Based System
• Indian Air Force: Airborne Stand-off Jammer
• Indian Army: Indian Light Tank
• In addition, AIP has also been accorded to following five projects under industry-funded Make-II procedure:
• Indian Air Force: Full Motion Simulator for Apache Helicopter
• Indian Air Force: Full Motion Simulator for Chinook Helicopter
• Indian Air Force: Wearable Robotic Equipment for Aircraft Maintenance
• Indian Army: Integrated Surveillance and Targeting System for Mechanised Forces
• Indian Army: Autonomous Combat Vehicle

For more information: Click here to read…

Virtual summit of Quad leaders.

Prime Minister participated on 03 March 2022, at a virtual summit of Quad leaders, along with US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. The meeting reviewed the progress on Quad initiatives since the September 2021 Quad Summit. The leaders agreed on accelerating cooperation, with an objective to achieve concrete outcomes by the summit in Japan later this year.

Prime Minister underlined that the Quad must remain focused on its core objective of promoting peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. He called for concrete and practical forms of cooperation within the Quad, in areas like Humanitarian and Disaster Relief, debt sustainability, supply chains, clean energy, connectivity, and capacity-building.

Developments in Ukraine were discussed in the meeting, including its humanitarian implications. The Prime Minister emphasised the need to return to a path of dialogue and diplomacy.

The leaders also discussed other topical issues, including the situation in Southeast Asia, the Indian Ocean region and the Pacific Islands. Prime Minister reiterated the importance of adhering to the UN Charter, international law and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
For more information: Click here to read…

Postponement of DefExpo 2022.

Due to logistics problems being experienced by participants, the DefExpo 2022 proposed to be held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat from March 10th till March 14th was postponed. The new dates would be communicated in due course.
For more information: Click here to read…

Four-day Indo-Pacific Military Health Exchange (IPMHE) conference.

Raksha Mantri (RM) virtually inaugurated, on March 07, 2022, the four-day Indo-Pacific Military Health Exchange (IPMHE) conference co-hosted by Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) and US Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM). The theme of the conference is ‘Military Healthcare in a Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous (VUCA) World’. The conference, which will continue till March 10, 2022, aims to enhance cooperation and jointmanship in military medicine. It will cover many important topics including operational/combat medical care, tropical medicine, field surgery, field anaesthesia, aviation & marine medicine emergencies etc.

The conference is attended by more than 600 Indian and foreign delegates from over 38 countries. A delegation of 20 members from the organising committee of the USINDOPACOM is in New Delhi to co-host the conference. The delegates and speakers will interact and share experiences over the four days on 110 topics.
For more information: Click here to read…

Ninth Edition of India – Sri Lanka Bilateral Maritime Exercise SLINEX.

SLINEX was conducted from 07 to 10 Mar 22 at Visakhapatnam. The inter-operability achieved over the years as a result of such exercises has proved to be operationally beneficial for both the navies. The present edition of the exercise has further strengthened ties between the two Maritime neighbours and helped in improving interoperability.
For more information: Click here to read…

Chief of Army Australia along with four member delegation is visiting India from 08 to 11 March 2022.

Chief of Army Australia along with four member delegation is visiting India from 08 to 11 March 2022. On 09 March 2022, the Australian Army Chief laid a wreath at the National War Memorial and received a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the South Block. Lt Gen Richard Burr called on the Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, Chief of Air Staff and other senior military officers. Both Chiefs exchanged views on the current global situation and the situation in Indo-Pacific in addition to discussing measures for enhancing defence cooperation between both armies. The General also addressed the faculty and participants of the prestigious National Defence College and later interacted on regional security perspectives with the Vice Chief of Army Staff and the Director at Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS), New Delhi. The visiting Australian Army Chief will be visiting Indian Army formations and units deployed along Western Borders on 10 and 11 March 2022.
For more information: Click here to read…

Exercise Dharma Guardian-2022 Culminates at Belgaum (Karnataka).

Ex DHARMA GUARDIAN-2022, an annual exercise between Indian Army and Japanese Ground Self Defence Force which commenced on 27 February 2022 at Foreign Training Node, Belgaum successfully culminated on 10 March 2022 after twelve days of intense joint military training, providing an unique opportunity of achieving synergy between Armed Forces of both the Nations which is focused towards strengthening the timeless bonds of India – Japan friendship.
For more information: Click here to read…

5th NSA Level Meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave.

Delegations of the founding members of Colombo Security Conclave; Maldives, India and Sri Lanka, and the newest member of the Conclave, Mauritius, successfully concluded the 5th National Security Adviser level meeting held on 09 – 10 March 2022 in Maldives. Delegations from Bangladesh and Seychelles participated as Observers. Key areas of cooperation to enhance and strengthen regional security wereidentified in the following five pillars:
• Maritime Safety and Security
• Countering Terrorism and Radicalisation
• Combating Trafficking and Transnational Organised Crime
• Cyber Security, Protection of Critical Infrastructure and Technology
• Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief
For more information:
Click here to read…

18 platforms identified for industry led Design & Development.

In-sync with the announcement in the Union Budget 2022-23 that allocated 25% of Defence R & D Budget for industry led R & D, 18 major platforms have been identified by the Ministry of Defence for industry led Design & Development under various routes. Some of them on the systems on the list are:

Make-I

• Hypersonic Glide Vehicle
• Directed Energy Weapons (300 KW and more) [High Powered Electromagnetic Devices and High Powered Laser Devices]
• Naval Ship Borne Unmanned Aerial System (NSUAS)
• Light Weight Tank
• Self-Healing Mine Fields
• Unmanned Autonomous AI Based Land Robot
• 127 mm Naval Gun
• 127 mm Guided Projectile
• Electric Propulsion (Engines) for Ships
• Standoff Airborne Jammer
• Li-ion Cells/ Li-Sulphur Cells [Portable High Capacity Energy Systems replacing the Conventional Hydrocarbons
• Communication System (AFNET System Switches, routers, Encryptors& VOIP phones)
• Electro Optical (EO) Pod (with subsequent upgrade to EO/IR) with high resolution sensing
• ‘Plug and Play’ Housing/ Infrastructure for soldiers posted at extreme altitudes.

For more information: Click here to read…

Accidental firing of missile.

On 9 March 2022, in the course of a routine maintenance, a technical malfunction led to the accidental firing of a missile.
The Government of India has taken a serious view and ordered a high-level Court of Enquiry.
It is learnt that the missile landed in an area of Pakistan. While the incident is deeply regrettable, it is also a matter of relief that there has been no loss of life due to the accident.
Citation: Click here to read…

15th round China-India Corps Commander Level Meeting.

The 15th round China-India Corps Commander Level Meeting was held at Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on the Indian side on 11th March 2022. The two sides carried forward their discussions from the previous round held on 12th January 2022 for the resolution of the relevant issues along the LAC in the Western Sector. They had a detailed exchange of views in this regard, in keeping with the guidance provided by the State Leaders to work for the resolution of the remaining issues at the earliest.
For more information: Click here to read…

Chair of Excellence in memory Gen Bipin Rawat at the United Service Institution of India (USI).

On the eve of the 65th birthday of late Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat, the Indian Army has dedicated a Chair of Excellence in his memory at the United Service Institution of India (USI). A cheque of Rs 5 lakhs was handed over to Maj Gen BK Sharma (retd), Director, USI which will be paid as honorarium to the nominated Chair of Excellence.
For more information: Click here to read…

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

Africa

Guinea

US sanctioned two Hizbu’llah financiers in Guinea.

On 04 March 2022, the United States (US) Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated two Hizbu’llah financiers and prominent Lebanese businessmen— Ali Saade and Ibrahim Taher under Executive Order (EO) 13224. The EO-13224 targets terrorists, leaders, and officials of terrorist groups, and those providing support to terrorists or acts of terrorism.

Ali Saade, connected with Hizbu’llah supporter Kassim Tajideen, initiated money transfers from Guinea to Lebanon. Taher has been identified as one of the most known financiers of Hizbu’llah and believed to employ several people affiliated with the terror group within Guinea. According to the US Department of Treasury’s statement, “the new sanctions are aimed at disrupting Hizbu’llah’s business network in West Africa and exposing businessmen who support Hizbu’llah’s destabilising activities through bribes and other corrupt methods.”
For more information:
Click here to read…

Nigeria

Former Boko Haram terrorists graduated from de-radicalisation programme: Nigerian authorities.

According to the Nigerian authorities, 559 former Boko Haram terrorists have graduated a military-run de-radicalisation programme and likely to re-integrated into society. The graduates pledged their allegiance to the Nigerian authorities. The military-run de-radicalisation programme was introduced in 2015 by the Nigerian government and became operational in 2016 as part of counter-terrorism (CT) strategies.

Boko Haram terrorists who voluntarily lay down their arms and surrender to the authorities are given special training, including vocational skills, religious re-orientation and psychological support to de-radicalise them before being reintegrated into the society. So far, total of 1,629 former Boko Haram terrorists have been graduated from the programme.
For more information: Click here to read…

Afghanistan

IS-KP terrorist of Indian origin killed in Afghanistan.

In a recent issue of a Islamic State (IS) publication— Voice of Khurasan, the terror group informed that an operative of Islamic State-Khurasan Province (IS-KP)— Najeeb al-Hindi (nom de guerre) has died fighting in Afghanistan, apparently in a suicide attack. The publication described “Najeeb” as a 23-year-old “engineering (M. Tech) student from Kerala” in an article about his death.

The article did not provide any further details about the death, including timeline when he was killed. According to the article, “Najeeb” had come to Khurasan “all the way from India” on his own when it was difficult to do hijra on those days. He met with other fighters who came from his hometown and lived as a bachelor in a guest room.
For more information: Click here to read…

Pakistan

At least 56 people died in a suicide bomb attack during Friday prayers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

On 04 March 2022, at least 56 people were killed and 194 were injured in a suicide bomb attack inside a Shia Muslim Mosque during Friday prayers in Peshawar district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility and threatened more such attacks against Pakistan’s Shia minority. “Before the explosion, the attacker opened fire on police personnel deployed outside the mosque. A police officer was martyred and other was injured during the gunfight. The attacker ran inside the mosque and detonated his explosive vest,” said Peshawar Police Chief— Muhammad Ejaz Khan.
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DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir

Unidentified terrorists killed a village Sarpanch in Srinagar.

On 09 March 2022, unidentified terrorists killed a village chief or Sarpanch – Sameer Ahmad Bhat, Sarpanch of Khanmoh village in Srinagar district of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). Bhat is the second Panchayat member killed by terrorists in a week. Bhat was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to injuries during his treatment.
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NIA official searched different locations in Kashmir in connection with terror-funding.

On 09 March 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials carried out searches at various locations in Baramulla and Srinagar districts of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), in connection with terror-funding investigation. In a joint search operation with police and CRPF personnel, the NIA officials raided premises of several members of Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) organisation. The JeI is a banned organisation under Section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.

“The JeI members have been collecting funds, domestically and internationally, through donations particularly in form of Zakat (charity), Mowda and Bait ul-Mal, to further charity and other welfare activities; however, these funds are instead being used for violent and secessionist activities. The funds raised by JeI are also being channelised to terror groups, including Hizbul-Mujahideen (HM), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), through well organised networks of JeI cadres,” said the NIA spokesperson.
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Two people killed in a grenade blast in Srinagar.

On 06 March 2022, two people, including a 19-year-old girl, were killed, while 33 others were injured in a grenade blast at the Hari Singh Street in Srinagar. “At about 04:20 pm, terrorists hurled a grenade upon police and security forces personnel deployed at the Hari Singh Street,” said a police official. The area had been cordoned off and a hunt operation was launched to nab the perpetrators.

“Three-four cells were busted in last few days. Those involved in the grenade attack have been identified and the case will be solved soon. In 2021, 85 such modules involved in civilian killings and grenade-throwing incidents, were busted; while six modules were neutralised in Jammu and Kishtwar area in Jammu,” said Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Director-General of Police (DGP) Dilbag Singh.
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One killed in an explosion outside district court complex in Udhampur.

On 09 March 2022, one person was killed, and 13 others were injured in an explosion outside the district court complex in Udhampur district in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) and Jammu & Kashmir police personnel reached the incident site and started the investigation. The primarily investigation revealed that it was an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast.
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Left-Wing Extremism

Police unearthed explosive dump in Telangana.

Acting on reliable inputs, a joint team of police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel carried out a search operation on 05 March 2022 and found explosives concealed in a drum, which belongs to Maoists, in the reserve forest area of Medaram village in Mulugu district of Telangana. The security forces personnel recovered 74 gelatine sticks, four detonators, one wire bundle, and three plastic sheets from the drum.
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Police arrested a Maoist from Bihar.

In a joint operation, on 07 March 2022, the Aurangabad police, CRPF, and the Composite Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), arrested a Maoist— Mithilish Mehta, from Gaya district in Bihar. “Mithilish was involved in several gun-battles between Police and Maoists in Jharkhand in 2001. He was involved in blowing up a government school building in February 2020 at Sondaha village in Gaya. Mithilish was also involved in an attack on police patrol team at Jhajhi village in Gaya district in April 2020,” said Gaya Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Harpreet Kaur.
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Police arrested two Maoists, including a key leader, from Assam.

On 06 March 2022, the Assam police arrested two Maoists, including a key leader— Kanchan Da (72-year-old), from Patimara tea garden area in Cachar district in Assam. “For the last two months, police have been running operations to arrest Kanchan Da. On 06 March, police officials managed to trace and arrest Kanchan Da. There are about 200 cases registered against Kanchan Da in different parts of India, with rewards of about ₹ 3 crore,” said Guwahati City Police Commissioner— Harmeet Singh. Police recovered a laptop, mobile phone, Maoist literature, and ₹ 3.60 lakh from Kanchan’s possession.
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Khalistan-inspired Extremism

NIA filed charge-sheet against six Khalistani terrorists in Punjab bomb blast case.

On 15 March 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed chargesheet against six Khalistani terrorists— i) Sukhwinder Singh, ii) Parveen Singh, iii) Gurpreet Singh, iv) Ranjit Singh, v) Habib Khan (Pakistani national), and vi) Lakhbir Singh Rode, under Sections 3, 4, 5, and 6 of Explosive Substances Act, Sections 21B, 27A, and 29 of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, Sections 16, 17, 18, 18B, 20, 38, and 39 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A], and Section 120B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

The case—RC-24/2021/NIA/DLI pertains to bomb blast in Jalalabad town in Fazilka district of Punjab on 15 September 2021. The case investigation revealed that Lakhbir Singh Rode, a self-styled chief of International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF) and his associates carried out multiple explosions in various locations in Punjab. Following directives from Rode, Habib Khan had radicalised and recruited other two Khalistani terrorists—Balwinder Singh and Sukhwinder Singh, and motivated them to plant bombs using IEDs (tiffin-bombs) smuggled from Pakistan. Prior to the blast in Jalalabad town, the chargesheetKhalistani terrorists had set ablaze few shops in Ferozepur city in Punjab.
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NIA filed charge-sheet against five Khalistani terrorists in case of smuggling of narcotics, weapons and explosives across the India-Pakistan International Border.

On 04 March 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed charge-sheet against five Khalistani terrorists— i) Harmesh Singh, ii) Darvesh Singh, iii) Gurmukh Singh, iv) Gagandeep Singh, and v) Lakhbir Singh Rode, in connection with smuggling of narcotics, arms, and explosives from Pakistan via drones.

The case—RC-31/2021/NIA/DLI, investigation revealed that charge-sheeted terrorists had smuggled illegal consignments of narcotics, arms, ammunition, and explosives from Pakistan to carry out terrorist activities in India. Till now, five terrorists in the case have been arrested while Lakhbir Singh Rode is absconding.
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Islamic Extremism

NIA filed charge-sheet against two IS terrorists in ‘Voice of Hind’ case.

On 11 March 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a supplementary charge-sheet against two Islamic State (IS) terrorists— i) Afshan Parvaiz Jarabi, and ii) Tawheed Latief Sofi, before the NIA Special Court, Delhi, under Sections 120B, 124A, 153A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and Sections 18, 38, and 39 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A].

On 29 June 2021, the NIA registered case—RC-14/2021/NIA/DLI regarding a conspiracy by Islamic State (IS) to radicalise Muslim youth from India to wage jihad against the State. To further the objective, an online campaign was launched which was supplemented by on-ground terror financing activities. The case was registered against cyber entity Qasim Khurasani and his associates.
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NIA searched a location in connection with IS-KP case.

On 07 March 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials carried out a search operation at the residence of Talha Khan, a suspect in ‘Islamic State-Khurasan Province (IS-KP)’ case, in Pune, Maharashtra.

The case—RC-11/2020/NIA/DLI relates with the arrest of Jahanzaib Sami Wami and his wife—Hina Bashir Beigh, from OkhlaVihar, Jamia Nagar in Delhi. Till now, six Islamic State (IS) operatives have been charge-sheeted in the same case for conspiring to disseminate ideology of IS, establishing modules, making IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices), and execute target killings. During the search, the NIA officials recovered incriminating documents and digital devices for further examination.
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NIA filed chargesheet against two HuT terrorists in ‘Madurai Iqbal HuT’ case.

On 14 March 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed supplementary charge-sheet against two Hizbut-Tahrir (HuT) terrorists— i) Bava Bahrudeen, and Ziyavudeen Baqavi, in ‘Madurai Iqbal HuT’ case.

The case—RC-08/2021/NIA/DLI, investigation revealed that the duo are HuT operatives which is affiliated with Islamic State (IS). Both terrorists were engaged in radicalising and recruiting youth, and to enforce a draft constitution written by radical Islamic preacher—Taqi al-Din al-Nabhani, founder of HuT. Both terrorists had also conspired to formed new modules in various districts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala through social media platforms, in order to spread the ideology of HuT.
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Police arrested drug trafficker from Poonch.

On 09 March 2022, the district police arrested— Kamlesh Kumar, a drug trafficker, from Mendhar area in Poonch district, and recovered 1.9 kg of marijuana from his possession. District police are taking effective measures against those involved in network of narcotic substances. The police have also requested general public of Poonch district to come forward and report the illegal business/network of drugs.
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Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs) Cases

NIA arrested a FICN trafficker from IGI airport, Delhi.

On 04 March 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials arrested a FICN (Fake Indian Currency Note) trafficker—Abdul Wahid aka Saddam, from Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport in Delhi.

The case— RC-05/2022/NIA/DLI pertains to the seizure of FICNs worth ₹ 10 lakhs and 175 grams gold worth ₹ 8.5 lakhs, at Terminal-3 of IGI airport, Delhi by Customs officials from another accused— Mohammad Shahjan on 12 January 2022. Initial investigation revealed that Abdul Wahid is an active operative of a network involved in smuggling of FICNs and gold into India. Earlier, two people have been arrested by the NIA in same case.
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Welcome to Africa Now, your weekly newsletter for Africa, presenting the most important developments in the continent – news that matters.

COMMENTARY

Russia-Ukraine Crisis: Where do African Countries Stand?

On 21st February 2022, President Vladimir Putin recognised the independence of Ukraine’s breakaway regions, Donetsk and Luhansk and decided to support Moscow-backed separatists with a military operation. Three days later, when Russia started its air and missile strikes in Ukraine’s Donbas region, it transformed into a full-blown war. Click here to read…

NEWS

Tensions rise in Libya as risk of ‘parallel governments’ grows, Security Council hears

Amid a political impasse that threatens to see Libya fractured again by two parallel governments, the priority must be maintaining hard-won gains and fulfilling the electoral aspirations of nearly three million registered voters. Click here to read…

Tanzania is getting a political remake as President Hassan eyes the 2025 polls

The sudden death of Tanzania’s populist president John Pombe Magufuli on 17 March 2021 catapulted his then little-known vice-president, Samia Suluhu Hassan, to the helm of political leadership. Click here to read…

Somalia delays election process again as deadline lapses

Somalia has again pushed back the deadline for completing lower house elections, delaying until March 31 a process that is already more than a year overdue and has resulted in political sanctions. Click here to read…

West African bloc says it won’t abandon Burkina Faso after coup

A representative of West Africa’s regional bloc said it would keep working with Burkina Faso despite concerns about the military’s plan to hold power for three years after a January coup. Click here to read…

Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan hold secret talks on GERD dispute in UAE

Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan are holding secret talks mediated by the United Arab Emirates on the filing and operation of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). Click here to read…

Niger pushes for peace with jihadist talks

Niger is pressing ahead with an initiative to talk to jihadists whose attacks have shaken the country’s southwest, amid fears that a new wave of bloodshed lies ahead. Click here to read…

Sudan: Russian influence and Ukraine war stir domestic tensions

Officials courted Russian influence but the interference and the war in Ukraine are driving a wedge between its two most powerful men and stirring up domestic tensions. Click here to read…

Mali to suspend France 24 TV station and RFI radio

The Malian military government is moving to suspend broadcasts by French state-funded international RFI radio and France 24 television channel, accusing the news outlets of reporting “false allegations” that the army killed dozens of civilians. Click here to read…

‘Union will not remain silent’: Tunisia’s UGTT demands dialogue

Tunisia’s powerful UGTT labour union says it will not remain silent if authorities do not include it in negotiations over the country’s political and economic future, rejecting proposed reforms. Click here to read…

UK approves Rwandan envoy ahead of Commonwealth meet

The United Kingdom has approved Rwanda’s new envoy to the country, Johnston Busingye, despite calls from critics to London to reject the nomination. The approval comes three months before Kigali hosts the Commonwealth Head of Governments meeting slated on June 20. Click here to read…

Ambush and reprisals in western Ethiopia kill 64 – rights body

At least 53 people have died in western Ethiopia after an unidentified armed group attacked a civilian convoy and its military escort in a region plagued by ethnic violence. Click here to read…

South Africa’s Ramaphosa blames NATO for Russia’s war in Ukraine

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa blamed NATO for the war in Ukraine and said he would resist calls to condemn Russia, in comments that cast doubt over whether he would be accepted by Ukraine or the West as a mediator. Click here to read…

Russia, China Build Ties in Africa as U.S. Falls Behind

In a new “scramble for Africa”, Russia and China are cutting deals, extending loans, making friends and allies across the continent at a time when jihadists in many countries have posed a growing threat to citizens and national security forces. Click here to read…

US’s Blinken meets Ivory Coast PM to discuss trade, security

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has welcomed Patrick Achi, prime minister of Ivory Coast, for bilateral talks on a number of trade and security issues at the US Department of State. Click here to read…

Complementing Rafales, US Could Sell Its ‘Top Dogfighters’ to Egypt as Cairo Moves Away from Russian SU-35 Jets

The Biden administration is planning to approve the sale of F-15 Eagles to Egypt, a top US military official said. This comes despite speculation that Washington might cut military aid to Cairo due to concerns about Egypt’s human rights record. Click here to read…

Chad military gov’t, armed groups peace talks in Doha on hold

A first round of negotiations between Chad’s ruling transitional military council (TMC) and representatives of armed groups set to kick off in Doha, the Qatari capital, has been delayed by 48 hours. Click here to read…

Nigeria moving ahead on nuclear power plant plan

Speaking at the Nigerian International Energy Summit in Abuja earlier this month, Idris said that Nigeria had had a small nuclear research reactor in operation for 18 years “so if anyone tells you Nigeria can’t manage a nuclear power plant – they are just telling you a story”.Click here to read…

Italy Negotiates with Libya, Algeria for Renewable Energy Deal

Italy is currently holding negotiations with Libya and Algeria for the mobilization and development of renewable energy resources. The European country is looking to diversify its energy mix, adopting clean energy sources from renewable-rich countries in northern Africa. Click here to read…

Rebel attacks in eastern Congo kill more than 60

Suspected Islamist militants have killed more than 60 people over five days of attacks on villages in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, local residents said on Tuesday. Click here to read…

Western Sahara: Spain and Morocco near end to diplomatic row over disputed territory

Morocco and Spain have moved closer to resolving a decades-long dispute over Western Sahara. Spain’s Prime Minister stated that a proposed autonomous region under Rabat control is the “most serious, realistic and credible” solution, according to Morocco’s royal palace. Click here to read…

Cameroon’s separatist conflict spills into Nigeria

The peaceful Nigerian fishing village of Manga sits not far from Cameroon’s border, but its residents know all about the separatist war raging inside their West African neighbour. Click here to read…

What drives South Africa’s political violence?

South Africa has a history of political violence, including a culture of violent protests and political killings. Historically, the violence is rooted in diverse drivers such as ethnic and tribal differences, and political intolerance. Click here to read…

The Chagos archipelago: Between British colonial past, American interests and Mauritian sovereignty

Last month, while global attention was fixated on the Ukraine crisis, Mauritius sent an expedition, a first of its kind, to the Chagos archipelago, also known as the Chagos Islands. Click here to read…

OIC Africa Group in Solid Support of Gambia Hosting Summit

In response to false and misleading rumours emerging largely on social media, The Gambia OIC Secretariat wishes to inform the public that The Gambia maintains its role as the rightful host of the next OIC Heads of State and Governments Summit. Click here to read…

African Countries Build Capacity on Cyber security

Sixty-five participants from 32 countries are attending a forum in Accra to promote cybersecurity capacity building in Africa. Dubbed Africa Cyber Experts (ACE) Community Kick-Off Meeting, it is on the theme “Setting the Scene for Cybersecurity Status in Africa.” Click here to read…

President of Guinea-Bissau says he stands firm in his post

The President of Guinea-Bissau said on Thursday that the Guinean State is still standing and that he remains firm in his post. The president’s speech, delivered on Thursday, takes place after the attempted coup on the 1st of February. Click here to read…

Eswatini Air adds first aircraft, an E145

Eswatini Air – the new regional airline brand of state-owned Royal Eswatini National Airways (RENAC) – plans to debut by the end of 2Q22 on Southern African regional routes using two EMB-145EPs. Click here to read…

How China-African trade may evolve

China is taking a more cautious approach to trade and investment in Africa and shifting its focus from governments to multilateral institutions. Click here to read…

Uganda bids to host Africa drugs agency

Uganda has the required capacity to host the African Medicine Agency (AMA) following its investments in developing and manufacturing drugs over the years. Click here to read…

Kenya Receives A $750 Million Boost to Support Economic Transformation Post-Pandemic

In an effort to help accelerate Kenya’s ongoing inclusive and resilient recovery from the COVID-19 crisis, the World Bank has approved a $750 million Development Policy Operation (DPO) that will help strengthen fiscal sustainability through reforms that contribute to greater transparency and the fight against corruption. Click here to read…

Mauritania says fight against slavery an ‘irreversible priority’

Fighting slavery in Mauritania is “a constant and irreversible” priority for the authorities, one of the country’s top rights officials said Wednesday, in a rare public comment on the issue there. Click here to read…

Talks underway to resume iron ore project in Guinea

Company representatives and officials are actively seeking a joint solution to a quick resumption of work at the Simandou project in Guinea, which has the world’s largest untapped iron ore reserves, the Global Times has learned. Click here to read…

Zambia’s late former President Rupiah Banda buried

Zambian late former President Rupiah Banda, who ruled from 2008 to 2011 and died at 85 last week after a battle with cancer, was buried at Embassy Park in Lusaka, the capital. Click here to read…

Mozambique: Cyclone Gombe death toll rises to 53

Tropical Cyclone Gombe has killed at least 53 people since it hit Mozambique a week ago, a sharp rise from earlier estimates. Click here to read…

INDIA IN AFRICA

‘Green Triangle’ named after Mahatma Gandhi inaugurated in Madagascar’s capital as part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav

As part of the ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’ to commemorate India’s 75th year of independence, a “Green Triangle” named after Mahatma Gandhi was jointly inaugurated in Madagascar’s capital Antananarivo. Click here to read…

Delegation from Telangana announced for Namibia for diamonds and pharma sectors

The India Africa Trade Council organized the India Namibia Summit which was attended by the Business community in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Click here to read…

Indian-American Puneet Talwar Appointed New US Ambassador to Morocco

US President Joe Biden on Friday announced Indian American Puneet Talwar for Ambassador of Morocco as part of some key nominations for his administration, a White House press release said. Click here to read…

India, Namibia committed to partnership in pharma sector

Trade between India and Namibia stood at approximately $80 million in the last few years. Namibia imports drugs and pharmaceuticals, chemicals and agricultural machinery from India. Click here to read…

South Africa Tourism aims at 64% rise in arrivals from India

With 48 per cent of the total Indian visitors to South Africa travelling from Mumbai, the city is the leading source market for South African Tourism in India. Click here to read…

South Africa to soon start e-visa facility for Indian travellers

The South African Tourism Board has recently expressed that it’s eyeing 64% year-on-year growth in arrivals from India this year. Click here to read…

2022 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports launched in India at Rs 16.01 lakh, bookings open

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India announced today that bookings for the new 2022 Africa Twin Adventure Sports are now open in India at Honda’s exclusive Big Wing Topline dealerships. Click here to read…

South Africa, India, EU, US reach compromise on Covid-19 vaccine patent

Any agreement must be accepted by the WTO’s 164 member countries in order to be adopted. If one country rejects the proposal, it could mean the end of the waiver. Click here to read…

India at UNSC calls for elections in Libya, hopes issues resolve peacefully

At the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) briefing on the situation in Libya, R. Madhu Sudan, Counsellor at Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations reiterated the imperative for holding the Presidential and Parliamentary elections in the North African country at the earliest. Click here to read…

34 countries, including India, confirm presence at Commonwealth Summit in Rwanda

The CHOGM or Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting has been scheduled to start in the third week of June with President of Rwanda Paul Kagame being the host of the summit. Click here to read…

South Africa to issue e-visas for Indian travellers soon

As part of post-pandemic revival plans, South Africa will introduce e-visas for Indians to attract more tourists, business travellers and movie-makers, mainly from the south. Click here to read…
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Welcome to Africa Now, your weekly newsletter for Africa, presenting the most important developments in the continent – news that matters.

COMMENTARY

How Burkina Faso became the epicentre of conflict in the Sahel

In 2014, when millions of Burkinabes ended the 27-year rule of Blaise Campaore by forcing him to step down, observers and analysts dubbed the occurrence West Africa’s version of the “Arab Spring”. Click here to read…

How China’s Ambitious Belt and Road Plans for East Africa Came Apart

As China draws back from large scale infrastructure investments in Africa, it is worth considering why so many major Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects in the region, unveiled with great fanfare, have ultimately struggled. Click here to read…

UN chief wants Amisom to remain in Somalia

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has recommended to the Security Council that the African Union maintains its staffing level in Somalia through the end of the year. Click here to read…

Libya armed groups backing rival PM withdraw from Tripoli

Libya’s parliament-appointed Prime Minister Fathi Bashagha said that armed groups backing him have withdrawn from positions around Tripoli, after the UN warned of a new escalation in the divided country. Click here to read…

Russia ramps up ties with Sudan as Ukraine war rages

As much of the West seeks to isolate Russia after it invaded Ukraine, experts say Moscow is boosting relations with its long time African ally Sudan, eyeing its gold wealth and strategic location. Click here to read…

France to continue aerial support to Mali after troop withdrawal

France will still provide aerial military support to Malian troops battling an Islamist insurgency in the Sahel even after its counter-terrorism mission has withdrawn, but only where Russian fighters are not present. Click here to read…

Arab League summit to take place in Algeria starting November 1

The Arab League will hold its first annual summit for three years in November in Algeria, the bloc said on Wednesday, after the pandemic forced the meetings’ suspension. Click here to read…

Ukraine looms over US-African Union summit

The United States and the African Union (AU) held their first high-level summit since the Covid-19 pandemic this week with the conflicts in Ukraine and Ethiopia looming over the gathering. Click here to read…

South Africa is ready for a woman chief justice

During the vetting of the candidates for chief justice, the question was asked if South Africa is ready for a woman chief justice. Although the question is absurd, misogynistic and a confirmation of our patriarchal society, the answer is a resounding yes — and it is long overdue. Click here to read…

Mohamed Bazoum: Is Niger France’s new key partner in the Sahel?

The president of Niger discusses if his country will become the new focal point in the fight against ISIL and al-Qaeda. Click here to read…

Chad junta and rebels gear for tricky talks in Qatar

Chad’s ruling junta is scheduled to meet rebel leaders in Qatar on Sunday for delayed talks aimed at coaxing armed groups into joining a “national dialogue” on the troubled country’s futureClick here to read…

African Start-up Eswatini Air to Launch Soon After Taking First Aircraft

The southern African nation of Eswatini – previously Swaziland – is tiny. At just 6,704 square miles (17,364 square km), it is smaller in area than Wales and only a bit larger than the US state of Connecticut. It is Africa’s smallest landlocked country. Click here to read…

Important Step Toward Justice in DR Congo?

The Congolese human rights minister launched national consultations on a new transitional justice initiative that, if implemented, would help the Democratic Republic of Congo emerge from conflict, address grave human rights violations, and institute needed reforms. Click here to read…

Morocco to chair 6th UN Environment Assembly

At the end of the 5th United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-5) which took place in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, the member countries voted Morocco as the host country for the next edition. By hosting the 6th edition of UNEA, the Cherifian kingdom reaffirms the need to strengthen the fight against pollution and climate change whose effects have impacts on the global economy. Click here to read…

Tunisian authorities urged to drop draft law restricting civil society organizations

Thirteen NGOs urged Tunisian authorities on Friday to drop a draft law providing restrictions on civil society organizations, which could result in a “major setback” for rights after the country’s 2011 revolution. Click here to read…

New Zimbabwe law threatens to criminalise and ban NGOs

The bill will effectively criminalise the operations of NGOs, proposing harsh penalties, including closure of the organisations, require them to disclose their source of funding and jail terms of up to a year for breaches. Click here to read…

Egypt announces the country is to diversify its sources of wheat

Egypt’s Prime Minister announced the country is to diversify its sources of wheat to avoid relying on what he described as “specific sources” for this productClick here to read…

Chinese Imports Edging Out Kenya’s Local Products

Kenyan artisans say they are losing the market for their products to Chinese imports. According to the crafts persons, the high quality and lower prices of Chinese-made goods put them at a disadvantageClick here to read…

Lesotho: EU Considering Deployment of EOM

The European Union (EU) is planning to deploy the EU Election Observation Mission (EOM) to Lesotho ahead of the elections which are due to take place in September 2022. Click here to read…

Malian Army Accused of Killing Mauritanian Citizens

A Malian delegation is expected in Mauritania’s capital Friday to discuss the alleged disappearance of several Mauritanians on Malian territory. Click here to read…

Rwanda to impose tax on watching Netflix

Rwanda is the latest African country to announce plans to tax online services consumed within the country. This comes a few months after Zimbabwe and Nigeria laid out plans for the collection of taxes from e-commerce and digital companies such as Netflix, Google, YouTube, and Amazon. Click here to read…

Guinea suspends Simandou iron ore project, saying there has been no progress

Guinea’s ruling junta has ordered the cessation of all activities at the massive Simandou iron ore deposit owned by Rio Tinto and a Chinese-backed consortium, saying it was seeking clarification of how Guinea’s interests will be preserved.
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/guinea-suspends-simandou-iron-ore-mine-project-2022-03-11/

Turkey’s women diplomats shape relations with Africa

Turkey has made significant progress in its political, economic and cultural ties with African countries in the last two decades, and women diplomats have an important place in these relationsClick here to read…

Uganda: Doctors, MPs unite against bid to jail unvaccinated

In February, the Ugandan parliament introduced a bill proposing to fine anyone refusing to take COVID-19 vaccines four million Ugandan shillings ($1,100) or sentence them to jail for six months. Click here to read…

Ethiopian Airlines, Air Djibouti partner for China-Africa Sea to air transport

Ethiopia’s national air carrier, Ethiopian Airlines announced on Tuesday it has partnered with Air Djibouti and Djibouti Industrial Park Operation (IDIPO) to commence sea-air multimodal transportation. Click here to read…

Eni And bp Finalize Agreement to Create New Independent Joint Venture in Angola

BP and Eni confirmed Friday that they have signed an agreement to form a new 50/50 independent company, Azule Energy [a bp and Eni Company], through the combination of the two companies’ Angolan businesses. Click here to read…

Zambia’s ex-President Rupiah Banda dead at 85

Rupiah Banda, who served as president of Zambia from 2008 and 2011, died Friday evening in the capital Lusaka at age 85 after a two-year battle with cancer. His son Andrew confirmed the former leader’s death, saying, “He is gone.” Click here to read…

Prince William says war normal in Africa and Asia, ‘alien’ in Europe; invites backlash

Prince William’s comments that it is ‘very alien’ to see a war in Europe while it was normal to witness conflict in Asia and Africa has invited a backlash on social media. Click here to read…

INDIA IN AFRICA

Defence Expo put off

The situation in Ukraine has led to the postponement of the prestigious defence exhibition DefExpo-2022, to be held from March 10-14 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Click here to read…

India, European Union hold inaugural consultations on Africa

The leaders of India and EU held the inaugural India-EU Consultations on Africa on March 7, in virtual mode, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Tuesday. Click here to read…

South Africa: Made-in-India Suzuki Celerio goes on sale

Suzuki has launched the second generation Celerio in the South African market. The car is manufactured and exported from Maruti Suzuki’s production facility in India. Click here to read…

Indian Embassy unveils plaque of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ in Antananarivo

To mark the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav on the occasion of 75 years of India’s Independence, the Indian Embassy in Madagascar organized a special unveiling ceremony of the plaque of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”. Click here to read…

India focuses on Revitalization Agreement, election preparations in South Sudan at UNSC

India emphasised the execution of the Revitalization Agreement and election preparations at a UN Security Council (UNSC) briefing on the situation in South Sudan. Click here to read…

South Africa to issue e-visas for Indian travellers soon

As part of post-pandemic revival plans, South Africa will introduce e-visas for Indians to attract more tourists, business travellers and movie-makers, mainly from the south. Click here to read…

26 more Indian fishers held in Seychelles

Twenty-six more Indian fishermen were detained by authorities in Seychelles, off East Africa, on Wednesday on charges of entering their territorial waters. This takes the total number of Indian fishermen detained there in three days to 59. Click here to read…

Sewa International evacuates 467 African students from Ukraine

Houston-based Indian-American non-profit body Sewa International has evacuated 467 African students including 367 Nigerians, from Ukraine’s Sumy amidst a Russian military offensive. Click here to read…

Former diplomat Rajiv Bhatia’s India-Africa Relations: Changing Horizons, is an essential reader on India’s burgeoning ties with African states

This book is certainly rare considering the paucity of scholarly writings by Indians on the core issues of Africa. As a scholar-diplomat, who headed Indian embassies in South Africa, Kenya and Lesotho, Rajiv Bhatia has deftly handled changing horizons of Indo-African ties. Click here to read…

Chennai’s Hindustan Institute of Technology & Science celebrates its 12th Convocation

Chennai’s Hindustan Institute of Technology & Science (HITS) celebrated its 12th annual convocation on March 5 where Dr Grace Akello, Uganda Ambassador to India, was one of the key guest speakers. Click here to read…

Morocco & Jordan join hands with India to organise sporting tournament in Kashmir

Key Arab states of Morocco and Jordan have taken a key step in organising a sporting tournament in collaboration with India in Kashmir. Click here to read…

‘Best experience in India’: Travelers from Morocco join clean-up drive at Thiruvanmiyur beach

Two Moroccon travelers joined the save a turtle team for a beach clean-up drive to create awareness on responsible tourism at Thiruvanmiyur beach on Friday. Click here to read…

Telecoms major Airtel Uganda plans IPO by 2022-end: MD

Airtel Uganda, the country’s second largest telecoms company and a unit of India’s Bharti Airtel, plans to list a part of its equity by the end of this year, a top company official told local NTV Uganda late Monday. Click here to read…

Welcome to Africa Now, your weekly newsletter for Africa, presenting the most important developments in the continent – news that matters.

COMMENTARY

Explaining Israel’s Africa policy

In February 2022, the annual summit of the African Union (AU) took place in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, also headquarter of the African Union. The principal objective of the meeting was to evaluate AU’s achievements over the past year, particularly in the context of the recent surge of military coups and the ways to recover from the pandemic. Click here to read…

NEWS

Somalia enters transition as Amisom gives way to ATMIS

After one and a half-decade of operation, the African Union Mission in Somalia, Amisom, will, starting end of this month, transition to the African Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). Click here to read…

Burkina Faso appoints interim government after January coup

The new government of 25 ministers includes Defence Minister General Barthelemy Simpore, who has retained the position he held under Kabore, according to the decree. Click here to read…

Malian army says dozens of its soldiers killed in jihadist attack

A jihadist attack on a military camp in central Mali on Friday killed 27 soldiers and 47 “terrorists” were “neutralised”, the country’s army said. Click here to read…

Ethiopia Brings Nile River Dam Online as Sudan, Egypt Object

Ethiopia has begun generating electricity at its new 5,000-MW roller-compacted concrete gravity-type dam on the Nile River. The first 375 MW went to the national grid on Feb. 20. Click here to read…

Sudan welcomes military base agreement with Russia in the Red Sea

Deputy Chairman of Sudan Sovereignty Council, General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalu Hmidti, reported that he discussed cooperation with Russian officials on national security and political issues. Click here to read…

Libyan parliament swears in new PM as crisis deepens

A standoff between two rival governments in Libya risks resulting in the territorial division as the parliament in the east swore in a new administration while the incumbent in Tripoli refused to cede power. Click here to read…

Tanzania president, freed opposition leader vow to ‘build trust’

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan and opposition leader Freeman Mbowe pledged to heal rifts and buttress democracy as they met hours after Mbowe was freed from jail in a surprise move. Click here to read…

Anti-junta and anti-France protest rallies hundreds in Chad

Some 500 people demonstrated on Saturday in response to a call from the opposition against the ruling military junta in Chad. Click here to read…

Tensions flare in Eswatini

Eswatini’s King Mswati III has suppressed unrest for now. But opposition voices will continue to push for democracy, possibly leading to a transition of power. Click here to read…

Mozambique announces new prime minister after cabinet reshuffle

Mozambique President Filipe Nyusi has appointed a new prime minister and filled several other posts, including the finance minister, as part of a cabinet reshuffle. Click here to read…

China’s Huawei in troubled waters in South Africa over Employment Equity Policy

The Department of Employment and Labour of South Africa last month filed court papers against Huawei Technologies South Africa for not complying with the Employment Equity Policy of the country. Click here to read…

President Kenyatta endorses Raila Odinga in upcoming presidential election

During an address before his Jubilee party supporters on Wednesday, President Uhuru Kenyatta said Raila Odinga “meant well for the country”.Click here to read…

More than 200 gunmen killed in Nigeria security operation

At least 200 gunmen were killed in the past three days in Nigeria’s central-northern state of Niger during a security operation to clear armed gangs from the area. Click here to read…

Algeria is Prepared to Fulfil Europe’s Gas Demand

Algerian oil and gas giant, Sonatrach, announced that it is prepared to supply Europe with an increased supply of oil and gas should Russia’s exports not meet Europe’s demand. Additional gas will be exported through the TransMed pipeline, which connects Algeria and Italy. Click here to read…

Ghana’s 65th Independence anniversary – The journey so far

Former Gold Coast, now Ghana is today, March 6, celebrating its 65th anniversary after attaining independence in 1957 from the British. Click here to read…

Chinese Company Removed as Operator of Cobalt Mine in Congo

A court has given the Congolese control of one of the world’s largest sources of cobalt while allegations against the mine’s Chinese owners are investigated. Click here to read…

Cameroon blast: At least five people killed, including senior official and mayor

A senior state official and a mayor were among five people killed by a road mine in a restive anglophone region of Cameroon on Wednesday, local sources said. Click here to read…

In a first, a female judge chairs a hearing in Egypt’s top court

In a first, Radwa Helmi on Saturday sat as the first female judge on the bench of Egypt’s state council. It is a top court in the Arab country. Helmi was among the 98 women who were appointed last year to join the council, after a decision by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Click here to read…

Shunned by Others, Russia Finds Friends in Africa

Africa’s largest arms dealer, Russia has ties to the continent that stretch back to the Cold War and helped Mr. Putin win rare support over the invasion of Ukraine. Click here to read…

Ivory Coast’s hope: Digital agriculture

Climate change, land degradation and deforestation have severely damaged Côte d’Ivoire’s natural surroundings. Many farmers are worried about their future. But Digitalization is bringing new hope. Click here to read…

Timber giant quietly converts Congo logging sites to carbon scheme

A major European logging firm may have illegally converted more than a dozen of its timber concessions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo into so-called conservation concessions, a new investigation can reveal. Click here to read…

History, politics and mercenaries: why so many African nations are quietly standing by Putin

President Putin’s authoritarian allies in Africa have given their quiet support to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine at the United Nations. Click here to read…

New Amazon Headquarters Sparks Feud Among Indigenous South Africans

The development, still under construction, sits on sacred land in Cape Town. But some Indigenous leaders have allied with the developers, prompting a debate over who speaks for First Nations people. Click here to read…

Hage Geingob: Is oil discovery off Namibia a blessing or a curse?

Namibia’s president discusses the recent discovery of an estimated one billion barrels of oil off his country’s coast. Click here to read…

WHO sees little impact on Covid-19 vaccine supplies to Africa from Ukraine war

The World Health Organization does not expect any immediate impact on vaccine supply to Africa from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Click here to read…

INDIA IN AFRICA

Second India-Africa defence dialogue on March 12 in Gujarat

The second India Africa defence dialogue is set to take place on March 12 on the sidelines of the DefExpo 2022 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Click here to read…

EAM Jaishankar extends greetings to Ghana on its national day

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday extended greetings to his Ghanaian counterpart Shirley Ayokor and his people on their national day. Click here to read…

Uganda to sign MoU with Naruvi Hospitals

The Ugandan government would soon sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Vellore-based Naruvi Hospitals, said Grace Akello, Uganda Ambassador to India. Click here to read…

India, South Africa, Namibia oppose talks at WTO on e-commerce, investment, MSMEs

New rules cannot be introduced without fulfilling mandate of agreement by consensus, they argue. Click here to read…

Namibia wants ivory trade clause in deal for sending cheetahs to India

Namibia wants India’s support for lifting a United Nations ban on commercial trade of wildlife products, including ivory, for translocation of cheetahs to Kuno Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh, a condition New Delhi is unlikely to be able or want to meet, Indian and Namibian officials familiar with the matter said on Thursday. Click here to read…

The lip-sync siblings from Tanzania, and why PM Modi praised them

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised a brother-sister duo from Tanzanian, now social media stars, for lip-syncing to the Indian national anthem on Republic Day and paying tribute to Lata Mangeshkar. Who are Kili and Neema Paul? Click here to read…

Event Report

The African Continental Free Trade Area and Opportunities for India

On 23rd February 2022, the Vivekananda Foundation organised a lecture on “The African Continental Free Trade Area and Opportunities for India”. The Continental Free Trade Agreement (CFTA) is a critical African project to accelerate the continent’s long-term integration and economic goal.Click here to read…

DEFENCE

• Preparations of Def Expo 2022.
• President’s Fleet Review.
• Indian Air Force’s Eastern Bridge-VI exercise.
• Humanitarian Assistance to Afghanistan.
• Indian Air Force will participate in a multi nation air exercise named ‘Ex Cobra Warrior 22’ at Waddington, UK from 06 to 27 March 2022.
• Multilateral exercise MILAN 2022.
• Phone call between Prime Minister Modi and President Putin of the Russian Federation.
• Scientists demonstrate Quantum Key Distribution between two cities 100 kilometres apart.
• Contract with M/s Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the retro-modification of Commander Sight of Battle Tanks-T-90.
• Joint military exercise, “EX DHARMA GUARDIAN-2022”, between India and Japan.
  Prime Minister speaks to President Zelenskyy of Ukraine.
• Discussions on the modalities and structural framework for the creation of Integrated Theatre Commands.
• Chief of Navy, Royal Australian Navy visit to India from 25 – 28 Feb 22.
• Cdr PACFLT, US Navy visit to India from 25 – 28 Feb 22.
• Prime Minister chairs high level meeting to review Operation Ganga

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

West Asia

• IAF flies over Beirut after drone entered Israel; Hizbu’llah claimed responsibility.

Africa

Somalia

• “Al-Shabaab spend USD 24 million on weapons in 2021”: claimed Somalia-based research group.
• At least 13 people killed in a suicide bomb attack in Hirshabelle State.

Afghanistan

• US General McKenzie expressed concerns over presence of IS in Afghanistan.

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir

• Security forces arrested two terrorists from Pulwama and Srinagar.
• NIA searched multiple locations in J&K and Rajasthan in connection with ‘J&K terrorism conspiracy’ case.
• NIA arrested an accused in LeT OGW case.
• Security forces arrested a JeM terrorist from Kupwara.
• SIA arrested 10 JeM terrorists from different locations in Jammu and Kashmir.

Left-Wing Extremism

• NIA conducted searches at multiple locations in Kerala and Andhra Pradesh in connection with PLGA recruitment case.

Security forces arrested nine Maoists from Jharkhand.

NIA arrested an explosive supplier in case related to an attack on Police party in Jharkhand.

Security forces found arms and Maoist literature in Odisha.

Khalistan-inspired Extremism

• Police arrested three men for ties with pro-Khalistan groups, from Haryana.
• Ministry of Information & Broadcasting blocks “Punjab Politics TV” for its ties to pro-Khalistan group.

Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN) Cases

• NIA Special Court (Kolkata) convicted and sentenced a FICN trafficker.

DEFENCE

Ministry of Defence allocation in Union Budget 2022-23.

In the budget announcement for the financial year 2022-2023, Ministry of Defence has been allocated a total budget of Rs 5.25 lakh crore, which is 13.31% of the total budget. The total Defence Budget represents an enhancement of Rs 46,970 crore (9.82%) over Budget Estimates 2021-22.

In the Union Budget, the Capital Allocations pertaining to modernisation and infrastructure development of Armed Forces has been increased to Rs 1.52 lakh crore. In order to give push to indigenous Domestic Enterprises under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, the share of domestic capital procurement, which was earmarked at 64% in 2021-22, has been enhanced to 68% of the Capital Acquisition Budget of the Defence Services. Defence R&D will be opened up for industry, start-ups and academia with 25 per cent of defence R&D budget earmarked. Private industry will be encouraged to take up design and development of military platforms and equipment in collaboration with DRDO and other organizations through SPV model.

The Capital segment of the MoD (Civil) budget catering to organisations such as Indian Coast Guard (ICG), Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and Directorate General Defence Estates (DGDE) etc has also seen a notable jump of 55.60%. The Capital Budget of Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has been increased by 40% to Rs 3,500 crore in FY 2022-23 vis-à-vis Rs 2,500 crore in FY 2021-22. This will expedite the progress of creation of border infrastructure including important tunnels (Sela and Naechiphu tunnel) and bridges on major river gaps.
For more information: Click here to read…

Preparations of Def Expo 2022.

Raksha Mantri (RM) reviewed, in New Delhi on February 18, 2022, the preparations of DefExpo-2022, Asia’s largest exhibition on land, naval and homeland security systems, to be held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat in March. The event is being organised as one of the largest defence international exhibitions of the world. There has been greater domestic and international interest in this 12th edition of DefExpo, so far 78 participating nations, 39 Minister Level delegations with other confirmations to be received in the days ahead and 1000+ registered exhibitors for the mega event. Foreign Defence Ministers confirmations are also being received and are comparable with the previous edition of the event which was held in February 2020 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
For more information: Click here to read…

President’s Fleet Review.

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind reviewed the Indian Navy Fleet at Visakhapatnam on 21 Feb 22. With the theme ‘75 years in Service of the Nation,’ Indian Navy showcased its latest state-of-art indigenously built combat platforms during the 12th edition of the Fleet Review which was also conducted as part of the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence being celebrated as ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’.
After a 21-Gun Salute and Ceremonial Guard of Honour, the President embarked on the Presidential yacht, INS Sumitra, an indigenously built Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel designated as the Presidential yacht. The President sailed past 44 ships from the Navy, Coast Guard, SCI and MoES lined up in four columns at anchorage off Visakhapatnam.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indian Air Force’s Eastern Bridge-VI exercise.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) and Royal Air Force of Oman (RAFO) are scheduled to participate in a bilateral exercise named Eastern Bridge-VI from 21 to 25 February 2022 at Air Force Station Jodhpur. This would be the sixth edition of the exercise. It will provide an opportunity to enhance operational capability and interoperability between the two Air Forces.
For more information: Click here to read…

Humanitarian Assistance to Afghanistan.

In response to appeals made by the United Nations for humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, the Government of India has decided to gift 50,000 MT of wheat to the people of Afghanistan. The supply will be effected by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) and transported from ICP Attari (India) to Jalalabad (Afghanistan) by Afghan transporters. In a ceremony held at Amritsar on 22 February, 2022, Foreign Secretary Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla along with Afghan Ambassador Mr. Farid Mamundzay and World Food Program Country Director Mr. Bishaw Parajuli, flagged off the first convoy of 50 trucks carrying 2500 MT of wheat assistance from India to Afghanistan via Pakistan. The shipment is part of the commitment made by the Government of India to supply 50,000 MT of wheat for the people of Afghanistan.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indian Air Force will participate in a multi nation air exercise named ‘Ex Cobra Warrior 22’ at Waddington, UK from 06 to 27 March 2022.

Indian Air Force will participate in a multi nation air exercise named ‘Ex Cobra Warrior 22’ at Waddington, UK from 06 to 27 March 2022. Five Tejas aircraft will fly to the United Kingdom. IAF C-17 aircraft will provide the necessary transport support for induction and de-induction.
For more information: Click here to read…

Multilateral exercise MILAN 2022.

The latest edition of Indian Navy’s multilateral exercise MILAN 2022 is scheduled to commence from 25 Feb 22 in Visakhapatnam. MILAN 22 is being conducted over a duration of 9 days in two phases with the harbour phase scheduled from 25 to 28 February and Sea Phase from 01 to 04 March. The theme of the MILAN 2022 exercise is ‘Camaraderie – Cohesion – Collaboration’ which aims to project India as a responsible maritime power to the world at large. The aim of the exercise is to hone operational skills, imbibe best practices and procedures, and enable doctrinal learning in the maritime domain, through professional interaction between friendly navies. MILAN 22 will witness its largest ever participation, with more than 40 countries sending their warships/ high level delegations. This edition of MILAN would be larger in ‘scope and complexity’ with focus on exercises at sea including exercises in surface, sub-surface and air domains and weapon firings.
For more information: Click here to read…

Phone call between Prime Minister Modi and President Putin of the Russian Federation.

In a telephonic conversation President Putin briefed Prime Minister about the recent developments regarding Ukraine. Prime Minister reiterated his long-standing conviction that the differences between Russia and the NATO group can only be resolved through honest and sincere dialogue. Prime Minister appealed for an immediate cessation of violence, and called for concerted efforts from all sides to return to the path of diplomatic negotiations and dialogue. Prime Minister also sensitised the Russian President about India’s concerns regarding the safety of the Indian citizens in Ukraine, especially students, and conveyed that India attaches the highest priority to their safe exit and return to India.
For more information: Click here to read…

Scientists demonstrate Quantum Key Distribution between two cities 100 kilometres apart.

A joint team of scientists from Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, for the first time in the country successfully demonstrated Quantum Key Distribution link between Prayagraj and Vindhyachal in Uttar Pradesh, a distance of more than 100 kilometres. This technological breakthrough was achieved over a commercial grade optical fibre already available in field. With this success, the country has demonstrated indigenous technology of secure key transfer for bootstrapping military grade communication security key hierarchy. The performance parameters have been measured and have been found to be repetitively within the reported international standards at sifted key rates of up to 10 KHz. This technology will enable security agencies to plan a suitable quantum communication network with indigenous technology backbone.
For more information: Click here to read…

Contract with M/s Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the retro-modification of Commander Sight of Battle Tanks-T-90.

Providing a further boost to the ‘Make in India’ initiative of the Government of India in the Defence Sector, the Acquisition Wing of the Ministry of Defence has today signed a contract for Rs. 1075 crore with M/s Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the retro-modification of Commander Sight of Battle Tanks-T-90. The retro-modification will be carried out in 957 T-90 tanks of the Indian Army. The new retro-modified Commander sight employs a thermal imager capable of detecting the targets at 8 Kms during day and night and a Laser Ranger Finder (LRF) to find the ranges accurately up to 5 Kms, thereby enhancing its capability to engage target at longer ranges.
For more information: Click here to read…

Joint military exercise, “EX DHARMA GUARDIAN-2022”, between India and Japan.

A joint military exercise, “EX DHARMA GUARDIAN-2022”, between India and Japan will be conducted at Foreign Training Node, Belagavi (Belgaum, Karnataka) from 27 February 2022 to 10 March 2022. Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN-2022 is an annual training event which is being conducted in India since 2018. Notably, in the series of military training exercises undertaken by India with various countries, Exercise DHARMA GUARDIAN with Japan is crucial and significant in terms of security challenges faced by both nations in the backdrop of current global situation. The scope of this exercise covers platoon level joint training on operations in jungle and semi urban/urban terrain.
For more information: Click here to read…

Prime Minister speaks to President Zelenskyy of Ukraine.

President Zelenskyy briefed the Prime Minister in detail about the ongoing conflict situation in Ukraine. Prime Minister expressed his deep anguish about the loss of life and property due to the ongoing conflict. He reiterated his call for an immediate cessation of violence and a return to dialogue, and expressed India’s willingness to contribute in any way towards peace efforts. Prime Minister also conveyed India’s deep concern for the safety and security of Indian citizens, including students, present in Ukraine. He sought facilitation by Ukrainian authorities to expeditiously and safely evacuate Indian citizens.
For more information: Click here to read…

Discussions on the modalities and structural framework for the creation of Integrated Theatre Commands.

Tri-services discussions on the modalities and structural framework for the creation of Integrated Theatre Commands for the Indian Armed Forces were held under the aegis of Western Naval Command at Mumbai. This is yet another milestone towards building jointness and enhancing organisational synergy among the three Services. A total of nine Commanders-in-Chief from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force and ANC, came together for a high-level meeting to discuss and deliberate on various aspects related to setting up of the Integrated Maritime Theatre Command.
For more information: Click here to read…

Chief of Navy, Royal Australian Navy visit to India from 25 – 28 Feb 22.

VAdm Michael Noonan, Chief of Navy, Royal Australian Navy called on Adm R Hari Kumar, Chief of Naval Staff on 28 Feb 22 at New Delhi. CoN RAN had earlier visited Headquarters, Eastern Naval Command (HQENC) at Visakhapatnam from 25 – 28 Feb 22 to participate in Indian Navy’s biennial multilateral naval exercise MILAN 22. The Admiral was also a Guest Speaker during the International Maritime Seminar of MILAN 22. Among issues discussed during the interaction were avenues to strengthen the growing cooperation between the two nations and navies, deal with challenges emerging on the maritime front, and enhance collaboration and interoperability to ensure maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
For more information: Click here to read…

Cdr PACFLT, US Navy visit to India from 25 – 28 Feb 22.

During the visit of Adm Samuel J Paparo, Cdr PACFLT, US Navy, the Admiral interacted with Adm R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, in addition to other high ranking GoI officials. Among issues discussed during the interaction were avenues to strengthen the growing cooperation between the two navies, deal with challenges emerging on the maritime front, and enhance collaboration and interoperability to ensure maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Earlierhe visited Headquarters, Eastern Naval Command (HQENC) at Visakhapatnam to participate in Indian Navy’s biennial multilateral naval exercise MILAN 22. The Admiral was also a Guest Speaker during the International Maritime Seminar of MILAN 22.
For more information: Click here to read…

Prime Minister chairs high level meeting to review Operation Ganga

The Prime Minister chaired and pointed that the visit of four senior ministers as his Special Envoys to various nations will energize the evacuation efforts. It is reflective of the priority the Government attaches to this matter. The Prime Minister noted that the first consignment of relief supplies to Ukraine to deal with the humanitarian situation on Ukraine’s borders would be despatched tomorrow.
For more information: Click here to read…

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

West Asia

IAF flies over Beirut after drone entered Israel; Hizbu’llah claimed responsibility.

On 18 February 2022, Hizbu’llah claimed a responsibility for launching a drone into Israel that evaded Israel’s Air Defence before returning to Lebanon. In a statement released, the terror group—Hizbu’llah mentioned that “Hassan” model drone was on a reconnaissance mission and had reached 70 kilometres (43 miles) inside Israel’s territory. “The Islamic resistance launched the Hassan drone into ‘occupied’ Palestinian territory, and it surveyed the area for 40 minutes,” read the statement.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said that it fired an Iron Dome interceptor missile at the small, unmanned aircraft but missed and also scrambled fighter jets and attack the aircraft, setting of warning sirens across wide swarths of the North.
For more information: Click here to read…

Africa

Somalia

“Al-Shabaab spend USD 24 million on weapons in 2021”: claimed Somalia-based research group.

According to a report by a Somali-based research group—the Hiraal Institute, al-Qa’ida affiliated al-Shabaab spend USD 24 million on purchasing weapons. The report alleged that al-Shabaab has an annual revenue collection of about USD 180 million. “Out of annual planned expenditure of approximately USD 100 million, al-Shabaab’s annual planned expenditure on arms procurement is assessed to be USD 24 million, budgeted monthly at USD 2 million,” read the report. Allegedly, al-Shabaab purchases weapons from local black markets, and arms supplier contracted to buy and deliver weapons from abroad, with Yemen being the country of choice.
For more information: Click here to read…

At least 13 people killed in a suicide bomb attack in Hirshabelle State.

On 19 February 2022, at least 13 people were killed, and 20 others were wounded after a suicide bomber detonated explosives in a restaurant hosting local officials, in the town of Beledweyne in Hirshabelle State in central Somalia. According to witnesses, a large explosion tore through an open area of the Hassan Dhiff restaurant.
Despite tight security in Beledweyne, the attack took place amid eve of a first round of voting for parliamentary seats in constituency. “Two deputy district commissioners were among the dead. This was the deadliest attack that I can recall in this town,” said Police officer Mohamud Hassan.
For more information: Click here to read…

Afghanistan

US General McKenzie expressed concerns over presence of IS in Afghanistan.

In an interview shared on social media platform—Facebook, on 17 February 2022, the United States (US) Central Command (CentCom) Chief General Kenneth McKenzie expressed concerns over presence of Islamic State (IS) terrorist organisation in Afghanistan. “ISIS…. concerns us in Afghanistan. We know that the Taliban are no friends, particularly ISIS and in fact over the past couple of years, they have occasionally under-taken operations against ISIS,” said Gen McKenzie.

As reported in Tolo News, the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO)’s Secretary-General Stanislav Zas warned that the re-emergence of foreign terrorist groups, including al-Qa’ida and IS are not only a threat to Afghanistan but to the whole region.
For more information: Click here to read…

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir

Security forces arrested two terrorists from Pulwama and Srinagar.

On 19 February 2022, Security forces arrested two terrorists in two separate operations in Pulwama and Srinagar districts of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). In first incident, security forces launched Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in Rahmoo area in Pulwama district. During the search, a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist—Irfan Yousuf Dar was arrested. Incriminating materials, and arms & ammunition, including an AK rifle, a magazine, and 30 rounds, were recovered from Dar’s possession.

In second incident, in a similar operation in Eidgah area in Srinagar, a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)/The Resistance Front (TRF) terrorist—Janaid Mushtaq Bhat, was arrested. The preliminary investigation revealed that Bhat had come to Srinagar to carryout terrorist attacks and targeted killings.
For more information: Click here to read…

NIA searched multiple locations in J&K and Rajasthan in connection with ‘J&K terrorism conspiracy’ case.

On 19 February 2022, National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched eight locations in Sopore, Kupwara, Shopian, Rajouri, Budgam, Ganderbal of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), and Jodhpur district of Rajasthan, in connection with ‘Jammu and Kashmir terrorism conspiracy’ case.
The case— RC-29/2021/NIA/DLI relates to conspiracy of carrying out terrorist acts in J&K and other major cities, including Delhi, by Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), Hizb ul-Mujahideen (HM), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), al-Badr, and their affiliate groups—The Resistance Front (TRF) and People Against Fascist Forces (PAFF). As of now, NIA has arrested 28 accused people in the same case.
For more information: Click here to read…

NIA arrested an accused in LeT OGW case.
On 18 February 2022, National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested an accused—Arvind Digvijay Negi in connection with ‘LeT OGW network’ case.

The case—RC-30/2021/NIA/DLI relates to the spread of the network of Over-Ground Workers (OGWs) of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), for providing support in conspiring terrorist activities in India. Earlier, six accused persons were arrested in the same case. In the investigation, the role of Arvind Digvijay Negi, IPS, SP posted at Shimla (since repatriated from NIA) was verified and his house was searched. During the search, it was found that the official secret documents of NIA were leaked by Negi to another accused person who is an OGW of LeT.
For more information: Click here to read…

Security forces arrested a JeM terrorist from Kupwara.

On 21 February 2022, security forces established a checkpoint near Sultanpora Bridge at Zachaldara in Kupwara district. Noticing the presence of security personnel, a person tried to flee but was arrested on the basis of suspicion. Later, the arrested man was identified as Ubaid Bashir Wani, a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist. Incriminating materials, arms and ammunition have been seized from Wani’s possession.
For more information: Click here to read…

SIA arrested 10 JeM terrorists from different locations in Jammu and Kashmir.

On 16 February 2022, State Investigation Agency (SIA) arrested 10 Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists during the raid at different locations in various districts of central and south Kashmir. “Recently, the SIA constituted a mandate to investigate crimes connected with terrorism and secessionism, conducted overnight raids with focus on JeM network at different locations in various districts in Kashmir,” read the statement released by SIA.

During searches, cellular phones, SIM cards, records to show the use of banking channels, and even a dummy pistol were seized.
For more information: Click here to read…

Left-Wing Extremism

NIA conducted searches at multiple locations in Kerala and Andhra Pradesh in connection with PLGA recruitment case.

On 25 February 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials carried out searches at three locations—Wayanad district in Kerala, and Guntur & Chittor districts in Andhra Pradesh in connection with People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) recruitment case—RC-01/2022/NIA/KOC.

The case relates to the recruitment of vulnerable youth into the PLGA, an armed wing of CPI (Maoist), and further training them, organising terrorist camps to carry out the activities of CPI (Maoist) and threatening the unity and sovereignty of India.
For more information: Click here to read…

Security forces arrested nine Maoists from Jharkhand.

In another phase of a joint operation since 08 February 2022, the Jharkhand Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel arrested nine Maoists— i) Balram Oraon (zonal commander), ii) Dashrath Singh Kherwar (sub-zonal commander), iii) Markush Nagesia (area commander), iv) Shaileshwar Oraon, v) Mukesh Korba, vi) Viren Korba, vii) Shailendra Nagesia, viii) Sanjay Nagesia, and ix) Sheela Kherwar, from Bulbul Forest area in Lohardaga district of Jharkhand.

During the “Operation Double Bull”, the security forces exchanged fire with Maoists on 10 different occasions, busted their hideouts, and also killed a Maoist. From operation site, security forces recovered four weapons, including an American automatic rifle and a carbine, around 1,700 cartridges, 16 Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), codex wire, wireless sets, safety fuse, and several electronic items, and cash worth ₹ 3.27.
For more information: Click here to read…

Security forces found arms and Maoist literature in Odisha.

On 20 February 2022, security forces discovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition, along with Maoist literature, in a forest in Malkangiri district in Odisha. “Based on intelligence inputs, security forces launched an operation in Swabhiman anchal, and found arms and ammunition in a forest near Nadmenjeri village along the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh border under the Jodamba police limits,” said Superintendent of Police (SP) Malkangiri—Nitesh Wadhwani.
For more information: Click here to read…

Khalistan-inspired Extremism

Police arrested three men for ties with pro-Khalistan groups, from Haryana.

On 19 February 2022, Haryana Police arrested three men— i) Sagar, ii) Sunil, and iii) Jatin, from Juan village in Sonipat district of Haryana, for their alleged ties with pro-Khalistan groups. All three were booked under Sections 17, 18, 19, 20, and 21 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A], along with Section 120B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and other relevant Sections of the Arms Act.

In preliminary investigation, it was found that all three men were receiving funds and arms from overseas to aid terror activities in Punjab and other parts of the country.
For more information: Click here to read…

Ministry of Information & Broadcasting blocks “Punjab Politics TV” for its ties to pro-Khalistan group.

On 18 February 2022, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) ordered blocking of applications, websites, and social media accounts of an overseas-based ‘Punjab Politics TV’ for its alleged close links with the proscribed pro-Khalistan organisation—Sikhs For Justice (SFJ).

According to intelligence inputs, the channel— ‘Punjab Politics TV’ was attempting to use online media platforms to disturb Law & Order situation during the assembly elections in Punjab. Therefore, I&B used emergency powers under the Information Technology (IT) Rules to block the digital media resources of Punjab Politics TV.
For more information: Click here to read…

Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs) Cases

NIA Special Court (Kolkata) convicted and sentenced a FICN trafficker.

On 28 February 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Special Court, Kolkata, convicted and sentenced a Fake Indian Currency Note (FICN) trafficker— Ketabul S.K., to five years of Rigorous Imprisonment (RI) and ₹ 40,000 fine for commission of offences under Sections 120B, 489B, and 489C of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

The case—RC-25/2018/NIA/DLI related to the seizure of FICNs with face value of ₹ 1,92,000 on 31 July 2018, from Murshidabad in West Bengal. Other two FICN traffickers have already been convicted by NIA Special Court on 23 December 2021 in the same case.
For more information: Click here to read…

COMMENTARY

EU-Africa: We need a values-based and pragmatic approach to EU-Africa relations, one designed to benefit people

Europe and Africa are continents united by their history, diversity, proximity and the value of multilateralism, says Chair of EP’s Delegation to the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly. Click here to read…

How Pernod Ricard Sub-Saharan Africa is bridging the gaps in the region

Grégory Leymarie, CEO of Pernod Ricard South Africa & Sub Saharan Africa, speaks to The Parliament Magazine about the company’s latest initiatives on sustainability and its commitments to the regionClick here to read…

NEWS

Europe Commits $170 Billion to Africa, Continent Wants More

The European Union has pledged 150 billion euros ($170 billion) for investment in Africa as it seeks to gain influence on the continent and become its partner of choice. Click here to read…

Algeria, Ethiopia, Nigeria, South Africa form G4 nations

Algeria, Ethiopia, Nigeria and South Africa last week announced the formation of Group of Four Nations (G4) aiming to deal with various issues confronting Africa. Click here to read…

Burkina Faso: towards a 30-month military transition?

A commission set up in early February by the military junta that took power a month ago in Burkina Faso has proposed a 30-month transition before a return to constitutional order. Click here to read…

Somalia extends election deadline to mid-March

Somalia on Friday extended its deadline to finish voting for the lower house of parliament, the latest in a series of election delays that risk starving the country of budget funds. Click here to read…

Ivory Coast hosts US-led military training amid Sahel uncertainty

The annual United States-led counterterrorism training programme for African forces has kicked off in Ivory Coast as West Africa faces the growing threat of armed groups’ attacks amid French forces’ withdrawal. Click here to read…

Seven-nation summit in DR Congo to mull 2013 peace accord

Seven African heads of state gathered in Kinshasa on Thursday to assess a 2013 agreement aimed at cementing peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s violence-torn east and the Great Lakes region. Click here to read…

Ethiopia turns on the turbines at giant Nile hydropower plant

Ethiopia began producing electricity on Sunday from its Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a multi-billion-dollar hydropower plant on the River Nile that neighbours Sudan and Egypt have worried will cause water shortages downstream. Click here to read…

Thousands rally in Sudan against military coup

Thousands of Sudanese protesters have taken to the streets across the country to rally against the October military coup and to demand the release of prisoners. Click here to read…

Libya rival PM says cabinet line-up ready

Libya’s prospective prime minister, appointed by the war-torn country’s parliament as it seeks to oust interim premier Abdulhamid Dbeibah, said Thursday his cabinet line-up was ready. Click here to read…

U.S. Carries Out First Airstrike in Somalia Since August

The United States conducted a drone strike against Al Shabab militants in Somalia this week, the first such military action against the Qaeda affiliate in East Africa since August. Click here to read…

Egypt says no worries over Suez Canal amid Russian-Ukrainian standoff

The head of the Suez Canal Authority (SCA), Lt. Gen. Osama Rabie, recently said that the authority is ready for all possible scenarios resulting from the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine and their impact on global navigation. Click here to read…

ECOWAS envoy arrives in Mali for talks

An envoy from West Africa’s regional bloc arrived in Mali on Thursday, an AFP journalist saw, for talks with the military junta over restoring civilian rule in the volatile country. Click here to read…

Tunisia’s Saied will bar foreign funding for civil society

Tunisia’s President Kais Saied said on Thursday he will outlaw foreign funding for civil society organisations as he tries to remake the country’s politics after establishing one-man rule. Click here to read…

Erdogan cuts short Africa visit amid Ukraine crisis

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday cut short his trip to Africa, his office said, as the Turkish leader stepped up diplomacy over the crisis between Russia and Ukraine. Click here to read…

Barkhane commander visits Chad military base to deploy new equipment

France is looking for other alternatives for its Barkhane forces that are leaving Mali following the fallout with the current regime. Click here to read…

New Uganda law to impose fines on those who refuse COVID vaccine

Uganda plans to impose fines on people who refuse to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and those who fail to pay could be sent to prison under an amendment of a public health law currently being reviewed in Parliament. Click here to read…

Tanzania, Mozambique launch deradicalization programs to combat terrorism
Authorities in 2 eastern African nations team up to launch awareness programs to prevent youth from falling into trap of terror groups. Click here to read…

Ignore ‘politics’, says the Russian company that wants to build nuclear in SA about Ukraine

In 2014, South Africa agreed that Russia’s state-owned Rosatom would build up to eight nuclear reactors in SA, to supply up to 9.6GW of power. Click here to read…

Expanding Oil and Gas Exploration and Production in Niger

The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts the global demand for oil and gas to increase and oil demand alone to expand by 3.3 million barrels (mb/d) per day in 2022 and return to pre-COVID levels of 99.7 mb/d, a development that will provide an opportunity for African producers such as Niger to expand its oil and gas industry and help meet demand. Click here to read…

Sudan delegation heads to Russia amid Ukraine crisis

A delegation of senior Sudanese officials, including the deputy leader of the country’s military-led ruling council, is headed to Russia for talks on cooperation, authorities said. Click here to read…

The Kenyan UN ambassador’s Ukraine speech does not deserve praise

While Martin Kimani was right to condemn Russia, he seemed to embrace the colonial legacy in Africa. Click here to read…

Exit from Mali ushers in new era of risks for France and Europe in Africa

The question for France is whether it can afford to lose its traditional markets and political areas of influence in French-speaking parts of the continent, whether in West Africa or the Maghreb, where it already faces stiff competition from China, Turkey but also the US. Click here to read…

Defence Minister Akar signs Turkey-Senegal military deal

Defence Minister Hulusi Akar signed a joint military agreement with his Senegalese counterpart Sidiki Kaba on Wednesday, the ministry said. Click here to read…

Total Energies makes large oil discovery off Namibia

Operator Total Energies has made a significant discovery of light oil and associated gas off the coast of Namibia, the company said on Thursday. Click here to read…

Letter from Africa: Nigeria’s electioneering and the role of stomachs

Nigeria’s T-shirt printers, jingle writers and advertisers are in for a bumper season with the country gearing up for the polls – 12 months away. Click here to read…

Benin holds a highly political exhibition centred around restituted artworks

The works that France returned are – finally – on display in Cotonou. The exhibition, which is being held at the presidential palace, is both historic and symbolic. Click here to read…

Nigeria’s Green Africa Airways Sees New Investment

Nigerian airline Green Africa Airways has received new investment, which it will use to scale up operations and increase its fleet size. The startup carrier secured investment from Leadway Assurance Company Limited, one of Nigeria’s largest insurance providers. Click here to read…

Malawi polio immunisation starts next month after outbreak

Malawi said Thursday it will launch a nationwide polio vaccination campaign next month following the detection of its first case in 30 years and Africa’s first in five years. Click here to read…

INDIA IN AFRICA

The future of India-Africa relations: Opportunities abound

India and Africa’s historical links have experienced a revival in recent years, and there are strong reasons for optimism that the partnership could be mutually beneficial.
https://www.brookings.edu/blog/africa-in-focus/2022/02/25/the-future-of-india-africa-relations-opportunities-abound/” target=”_blank”>Click here to read…

Inside India’s plan to grow trade, investment with Kenya

India is keen to tap more trade and investment opportunities with Kenya, its High Commission in Nairobi now says. Click here to read…

Sharda University of India Offers 50 Percent Off Scholarships to Malawian Students

Sharda University of India has announced a 50 per cent cut on the 2022 scholarships to Malawians who want to study at the institution. Click here to read…

UAE treaty could give a fillip to Indian exports to the Gulf and Africa, benefit pharma and MSME sector

With the UAE an important transit point for goods and people, this is not an unreasonable expectation, provided Indian industry, especially the ailing MSME sector, can live up to the potential offered by the FTA, and exports match imports. Click here to read…

Balwant Thakur launches ‘Aprajita’ in Mauritius

Balwant Thakur the cultural Diplomat of India to Mauritius who is currently heading world’s biggest Cultural Centre today launched Hindi short story collection by Kalpana Lalaji at the Indira Gandhi Centre for Indian Culture, Phoenix in Mauritius. Click here to read…

Kili Paul, Africa’s most viral Bollywood sensation, felicitated by Indian High Commission in Tanzania

Kili Paul, the Tanzanian social media star known for his lip-syncing videos on Bollywood songs, has been honoured by the High Commission of India in Tanzania. Click here to read…

Gujarati OCI kidnapped at gunpoint in Mozambique

The Indian diaspora in Mozambique have warned the authorities of a mass exodus from the African nation after a 58-year-old Gujarati businessman was kidnapped at gunpoint on February 12. Click here to read…

South African Tourism accelerates India travel recovery efforts with a 4-city roadshow

Building on its extensive recovery efforts in India, South African Tourism is all set to host their biggest, independent travel trade initiative in India – their annual roadshow. This in-person roadshow will be the first mega-event post-pandemic and will travel to the 4 Indian cities of Delhi, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru and Mumbai from 07th to 11th March 2022. Click here to read…

Rohingya Genocide case legitimate, The Gambia tells UN top court

Lawyers for The Gambia have urged the United Nations’s top court to throw out Myanmar’s legal bid to end a case accusing the Southeast Asian nation of genocide against Rohingya Muslims, after the Buddhist nation tried to get the case dismissed. Click here to read…