Senegal has a new president & Niger tells US troops 'Bye Bye'
This week in Africa Niger defiant againts US and Senegal has a new president
Good day everyone, here are the happenings around the continent. Slightly more positive than last week with Niger and Senegal showing some progression.
Niger Junta Ends Military Cooperation with the US
Niger has officially terminated a military agreement allowing US military operations from a $110 million drone base in the country, signalling a shift towards Russian military cooperation.
The US, which has approximately 1,000 troops in Niger as part of efforts to combat Islamist insurgency in the Sahel, faces a strategic setback.
The new Niger government cited the US presence as illegal under constitutional rules. This move follows discussions on Niger potentially allowing Iran access to its uranium mines, as per reports from March 17, 2024.
Senegal Presidential Election: Bassirou Diomaye Faye's Historic Win
Bassirou Diomaye Faye has been announced the winner of Senegal's presidential election, securing 54.28% of the votes and avoiding a run-off.
His victory over the former Prime Minister Amadou Ba, who received 35.79%, marks him as the youngest president in Senegal's history at 44. Faye, an anti-establishment figure, was released from prison just 10 days before the election and was endorsed by the former opposition front-runner, Ousmane Sonko who was also imprisoned and released along with Faye.
Faye’s win represents a significant shift in Senegalese politics and a move towards economic sovereignty and anti-corruption efforts. Much of his rhetoric signals a move away from France in their policies and development. The election results from March 25, 2024, signal a hopeful future for Senegal's democracy.
Cyclone Gamane Hits Madagascar
Madagascar was struck by Cyclone Gamane, leading to at least 11 deaths and displacing thousands. I recently became aware of this amazing part of Alkebulan so this story is particularly unfortunate. The cyclone's impact underscores the ongoing challenges faced by African nations in terms of disaster preparedness and climate change adaptation. The disaster has prompted calls for increased international support and a reassessment of climate resilience strategies in the region.
Kenya's Health Crisis Deepens
Kenya is experiencing a deepening health crisis as more unions join the doctors' strike, demanding better pay and working conditions. The strike has highlighted systemic issues within Kenya's healthcare system, potentially affecting the well-being of millions. The ongoing dispute underscores the urgent need for dialogue and reform to ensure accessible and quality healthcare for all Kenyans. This is an issue not only faced by them but by many nations across the continent.
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Wow I'm loving this for our continent! Alkebulan needs more young and open minded leaders who are ready and willing to take the countries to a whole new level as it is supposed to be.
It all started with Ibrahim Traore, now he is following, more will follow.
Great news indeed