Author: Tafi Mhaka
The government of Mali recently severed diplomatic ties with Ukraine after a Ukrainian official’s admission that Kyiv provided crucial intel to Malian rebels, resulting in the deaths of Russian mercenaries and Malian soldiers. The rebels claimed responsibility for killing 84 mercenaries and 47 soldiers, marking a significant defeat for the Russian Wagner Group in the Sahel conflict. Despite Ukraine’s denial of involvement in the rebel assault, Mali and Niger swiftly terminated all ties with Ukraine, shocked by the attack that cost many Malian lives. This rift highlights Ukraine’s struggle to gain global support amid its war against Russia, with recent…
African billionaire Aliko Dangote recently voiced his frustration at the barriers he faces while traveling within Africa compared to Europeans, highlighting the need for a more unified and open continent. He highlighted the cumbersome visa process he must navigate, contrasting it with the ease Europeans experience. This disparity not only inconveniences businessmen like Dangote but also poses significant obstacles to African migrants seeking a better life. The author reminisces about a more inclusive and diverse past in Africa, where migrants from various countries contributed positively to communities. However, a rising trend of Afrophobia in several African nations threatens this unity.…
As South Africa geared up for the May 29 elections, the ruling African National Congress (ANC) tried to highlight its achievements over the past 30 years to win over a disillusioned electorate. President Cyril Ramaphosa even narrated a tale of a fictional character, “Tintswalo,” symbolizing the progress made under the ANC’s governance. Despite their efforts, the ANC only secured 40.18% of the votes, losing its majority for the first time since 1994. The election setback was a clear message from voters, expressing dissatisfaction with high levels of crime, corruption, and poor service delivery. The ANC’s failure to address these issues,…
In 2004, Human Rights Watch (HRW) exposed genocide in Darfur by accusing the Sudanese government and Janjaweed militias of committing ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity against African ethnic groups. Nearly 20 years later, HRW released another report detailing a new genocide in El Geneina, West Darfur, perpetrated by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Despite numerous opportunities for justice, African leaders failed to hold perpetrators accountable, allowing the atrocities to continue. African leaders missed chances to deliver justice to Darfuris, including ignoring recommendations for establishing an International Commission of Inquiry and a hybrid court for Darfur. The culture of…