ECOWAS Warns of Expanding Terror Threat, Pushes for Unified West African Security Strategy
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has issued one of its strongest warnings yet on the escalating security crisis in the region, stressing that terrorism is no longer confined to traditional hotspots but now threatens the entire West African corridor. In a briefing to the United Nations Security Council, Omar Touray, President of […]
Bénin’s Seven-Year Mandate: A New Addition to Africa’s Evolving Governance Models
Bénin has officially joined a small circle of African countries extending political mandates and redesigning their legislative systems. But beyond the headlines and the parliamentary vote counts lies a broader continental story — one about how African states are rethinking the rhythm, structure, and stability of governance. The National Assembly of Bénin recently approved […]
Border Standoff Deepens: Niger Demands “Guarantees” From Benin Amid French Troop Allegations
Diplomatic tensions between Niger and Benin have intensified as Niamey refuses to reopen its border with its southern neighbour, insisting that Benin must first provide “reassuring guarantees” over alleged French military activities on its territory. The move, announced by Niger’s military-led government, has prolonged the hardship faced by border communities and traders who depend on […]
Burkina Faso Opens Its Doors to All Africans with Free Entry Visas
Burkina Faso has announced a major step toward continental unity, making entry free for all African nationals. Ouagadougou says visa fees are now waived for citizens across Africa, with only one requirement: visitors must complete an online application form and receive approval before traveling. Previously, a tourist visa to Burkina Faso cost nearly $100 (55,000 […]
Burkina Faso Joins Regional Crackdown on LGBTQ+ Rights
Burkina Faso’s junta has moved to criminalise same-sex relationships, extending a growing trend of restrictive laws against LGBTQ+ communities in West Africa. The transitional parliament — a body of 71 members installed after two coups in 2022, unanimously passed the legislation. Justice Minister Edasso Rodrigue Bayala, speaking on state television, said offenders could face two […]
African Union Condemns Terrorist Attack on Beninese Army in Tri-Border Area
Addis Ababa, 26 April 2025 – The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has strongly condemned the terrorist attack against the Beninese Army in the tri-border area shared by Benin, Niger, and Burkina Faso, which occurred on 17 April 2025. The attack, which resulted in the tragic loss of lives and […]
Rice on the Rise: from Exotic to staple”
The first recorded reference to rice in West Africa is in the writhing of Leo Africanus, who traveled through the region in the 14th Century. He noted the practice of sowing the indigenous specie of rice in the region before the Portuguese brought the Asian species among others that later came into the region. Comfort […]
