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🇷🇼🇨🇳🇨🇩Chinese Yitian Air Defense System Spotted with M23 Rebels
Recent photographs from eastern DR Congo have revealed a Chinese Yitian self-propelled air defense system in the hands of pro-Rwandan M23 rebels. The most likely explanation for its appearance is a transfer from Rwanda.
The Yitian, also known as the Tianlong 6, is built on a 6×6 WZ-551 chassis manufactured by NORINCO. It is equipped with eight modified short-range TY-90 missiles (range: 300 m to 6 km, maximum altitude: 4 km), a multifunctional phased-array radar for targeting, and a 12.7 mm heavy machine gun for self-defense.
The presence of such a system significantly boosts M23’s anti-air capabilities, creating greater challenges for government forces. The threat now comes not only from man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS) but also from more powerful surface-to-air missile platforms.
#Rwanda #China #DRC
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🇲🇱 Mali: Former Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maïga Arrested
On August 12, former head of Mali’s transitional government, Choguel Kokalla Maïga, was arrested in Bamako as part of the authorities’ anti-corruption campaign.
While the government has not issued an official statement, media reports claim Maïga is accused of financial misconduct and embezzlement of public funds.
His lawyer, Cheick Oumar Konaré, said that earlier this month Maïga was summoned for questioning by the National Directorate of Economy and Finance — the agency responsible for anti-corruption investigations — over alleged misuse of state property.
“Former Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maïga was detained by officers of the National Economic and Financial Directorate’s brigade. We contest his arrest,” Konaré stated.
Maïga served as prime minister from 2021 until November 2024, when he was removed from office, reportedly after criticizing the postponement of elections. Since then, he has continued to speak out against the military leadership.
Mali’s political landscape is already strained by terrorist threats, economic hardships, and foreign interference. Authorities may present Maïga’s arrest as part of an effort to restore order, while the opposition sees it as an attempt to clear the political field.
#Mali
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🇫🇷🇨🇲Macron Acknowledges France’s Role in Violent Suppression of Cameroon’s Independence Struggle
French President Emmanuel Macron, in a letter to Cameroon’s President Paul Biya, admitted that France took part in violently suppressing Cameroon’s independence movement between 1945 and 1971. The statement is based on findings from a joint Franco-Cameroonian commission investigating France’s role in the events.
“Historians on the commission established that there was a war in Cameroon, during which French colonial authorities and armed forces used various forms of violent repression in several regions of the country. This war continued after 1960, with France supporting the actions of the independent Cameroonian authorities,” the letter states.
Macron also acknowledged France’s responsibility for the deaths of independence leaders Ruben Um Nyobè, Paul Momo, Isaac Nyobè Panjock, and Jéremie Ndlené, who were killed between 1958 and 1960 during military operations under French command.
#Cameroon #France
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🇩🇿🇱🇾Algeria: Armed Militants Killed at Libyan Border
On August 9, units of the Algerian National Army killed four armed militants attempting to cross the Algeria–Libya border in the 4th Military Region.
The Fezzan region has been under tight control for months due to the activity of armed groups and constant smuggling flows.
The threat posed by militants from Libya also affects Mali, as armed groups use Algeria as a transit route. Recently, a convoy from Libya led by Tuareg commander Hamdi Tlessoil was spotted in Mali.
Although Libya and Mali do not share a border, there are two main routes from Fezzan to Azawad: through Algeria (Djanet — Bordj Badji Mokhtar — In Khalil) or through Niger (Tummo/Salvador Pass — Agadez — Gao/Ménaka). Both routes are long used by armed groups and smugglers.
Algeria’s efforts to stop illegal border crossings could provide a point of cooperation with Bamako, helping to disrupt militant logistics chains.
#Alger #Mali #Libya
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🇿🇦South Africa: “National Dialogue” in Jeopardy Amid Funding Scandal
A major scandal has erupted in South Africa over the government’s “National Dialogue” initiative, intended to unite the country and develop a shared vision for its future.
Just days before the forum scheduled for August 15, the foundation of former President Thabo Mbeki announced its withdrawal, citing a lack of transparency in the use of the $39 million allocated for the event.
Other prominent organizations quickly followed suit — including the Steve Biko Foundation, the Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, and the F. W. de Klerk Foundation. The opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) has also withdrawn, while ActionSA announced it would not take part.
In a joint statement, the foundations said the compressed preparation schedule had turned the forum into a formal exercise lacking real substance.
“We are not prepared to participate in a process where key principles are sacrificed for the sake of haste,” Mbeki said, accusing organizers of dishonesty in allocating funds.
Launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa in June 2025, the “National Dialogue” was envisioned as a platform to address the country’s key challenges, involving government, business, political parties, trade unions, religious and cultural groups, and youth organizations.
However, the current crisis over preparation and funding is undermining public trust in the initiative. Authorities maintain that the dialogue will go ahead as planned and that all spending complies with the law, but doubts are growing over the government’s commitment to an open, transparent, and genuine discussion about the nation’s future.
#SouthAfrica
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🇳🇬🇹🇩Chad–Niger: Déby Itno’s Visit Signals Closer Alignment with the Alliance of Sahel States
On August 6, 2025, Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno paid his first official visit since taking office to Niger for talks with the head of state, General Abdourahamane Tiani. The 48-hour meeting covered security, economic, energy, and infrastructure issues.
The trip has reignited speculation that Chad may join the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which already includes Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali. There is no formal accession process yet, but N’Djamena has steadily drifted toward the bloc over the past year.
🔸Collective security: Niger and Chad plan to intensify coordination against jihadist groups in the Lake Chad basin, a key hotspot threatening both countries.
🔸Energy: The two sides are considering a pipeline to link fields and diversify export routes (reducing Chad’s reliance on the Cameroon corridor while boosting Niger’s refining throughput).
🔸Infrastructure & connectivity: Plans include upgrading a segment of the Trans-Saharan Highway and linking to the DTS fiber-optic line, in line with AES goals for autonomous transport and communications networks.
🔸Geopolitical shift: Chad’s termination of defense agreements with France and the withdrawal of French troops in November 2024 weakened Paris’s foothold in the Sahel and aligned N’Djamena more closely with AES’s platform.
🔸Political signaling: Statements by Chad’s communications minister about “seriously considering AES membership” and a possible reset of currency, economic, and resource policy suggest readiness for deeper integration—even without a formal application.
Chad’s foreign-policy trajectory is underscored by active bilateral engagement and multilateral outreach: at the African Union summit in February 2025, Déby Itno called for renewed dialogue with AES members—whom he termed “brother countries”—and a week later paid an official visit to Burkina Faso. The only AES country he has yet to visit is Mali.
#Chad #Niger
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🇧🇫Burkina Faso: Photos of Drones Used by Militants Published
Media outlets have released photographs of unmanned aerial vehicles used by terrorist groups to strike Burkina Faso Armed Forces positions.
According to the images, the drones are commercial models that have been modified to drop various improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
#BurkinaFaso
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🇳🇬Nigeria: Over 100 Bandits Killed in Zamfara State Raid
Over the weekend, a joint army and air force operation struck a bandit camp in Bukkuyum, an area recently hit by a string of attacks, including the kidnapping of residents and the killing of 13 security personnel. The news was reported by Western media, citing a conflict monitoring report prepared for the UN.
According to the report, the operation may have been a direct response to the recent surge in bandit activity across northwestern and central Nigeria.
Originally rooted in land and water disputes, these groups have evolved into organized criminal networks that terrorize communities through raids, kidnappings, and extortion.
Despite army deployments and the creation of a special militia force in Zamfara back in 2015, the violence continues to spread, with gangs becoming more sophisticated and increasingly cooperating with jihadist groups.
#Nigeria
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🇹🇩Chad: Opposition Leader Succès Masra Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison
The Appeals Court in N’Djamena has sentenced former Prime Minister of Chad Succès Masra to 20 years in prison and a fine of one billion CFA francs.
He is accused of inciting hatred and rebellion, complicity in murder, spreading racist and xenophobic messages, and criminal conspiracy. Masra denies all charges, while his lawyer, Francis Kadjilembaye, called the verdict “an outrage” and announced plans to appeal.
Succès Masra is known for his outspoken criticism of President Mahamat Idriss Déby. He ran against him in the May 2024 presidential election, securing 18.5% of the vote against Déby’s 61%.
#Chad
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🇳🇬Nigeria: Tinubu Consolidates Power Amid Rising Internal Frictions
After two years of painful economic reforms, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu is steadily preparing for the 2027 elections. His party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), retains dominance in parliament and most states. In Lagos and Abuja, “door-to-door” campaign banners already promote the president’s re-election bid.
The July death of former President Muhammadu Buhari and the formation of an opposition alliance around the African Democratic Congress (ADC), joined by political heavyweights Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, have reshaped the political landscape. Though the ADC currently holds only two parliamentary seats, the alliance boosts its political clout.
Tinubu’s strategy relies on expanding the APC by attracting defectors from the opposition and dismantling rival alliances. His 2025 tax reform increased state revenue, eased the burden on the poorest, and cut off fiscal flows to rival governors. However, the rapid influx of new members has sparked internal disputes.
Key battlegrounds:
Delta — governor’s defection to APC provided resources but triggered backlash from old party loyalists.
Rivers — minister Wike dominates politics amid a feud with the governor and ADC attacks.
Kano — contest for Kwankwaso’s support, possible APC candidate Barau Jibrin.
Lagos — Tinubu’s base, but low turnout and tensions with Governor Sanwo-Olu.
Adamawa — influential Binani’s move to ADC gives the opposition a foothold.
While the APC still firmly controls 14 of 17 southern states and the federal agenda, the growing strength of the opposition and internal frictions could make the 2027 race far less predictable.
#Nigeria
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🇨🇩DRC: Doha Talks with M23 Collapse
The meeting scheduled for August 8 in Qatar between the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo and the March 23 Movement (M23) failed to take place, with both sides citing a lack of official invitations. In reality, deepening disagreements were to blame: Kinshasa demands a full withdrawal of M23 from occupied territories, while the rebels insist on discussing federalization and the immediate release of 700 of their fighters.
The situation is further complicated by M23’s control of the strategic cities of Goma and Bukavu, and by Rwanda’s role — officially denied, but widely seen as using the group as a tool of leverage. A recent bilateral agreement between Kinshasa and Kigali, reached without M23’s involvement, provoked a sharp protest from the movement.
With fighting ongoing and pressure mounting from the US and Qatar — both interested in access to Congo’s resources — the August 18 deadline for a peace agreement appears increasingly unrealistic. The absence of Uganda, Burundi, and the “Wazalendo” militia from the negotiating table only increases the risk of total breakdown in the process.
#DRC #M23
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🇸🇴Somalia: Forces Seize Control of Strategic Town of Bariire
Somali armed forces, in cooperation with the Ugandan army under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), have taken control of the strategic town of Bariire in the Lower Shabelle region.
During the operation, more than 100 al-Shabaab militants were killed, and several others were captured. The military is now conducting clearance operations in the town and surrounding areas, seizing weapons and military equipment.
Bariire, located about 50 kilometers southwest of Mogadishu, had long served as a key militant base for planning and preparing attacks.
#Somali
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🇲🇱Destruction of a jihadist pickup truck near the city of Kidal.
#Mali
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🇨🇩DR Congo Prime Minister Appoints New Government of 53 Members
The Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Judith Suminwa, has formed a new government consisting of 53 members. The majority of the members have previously held positions in the previous cabinet, while some have switched departments but retained similar positions.
Notably, three new members of the government represent the Congolese opposition and civil society organizations, a promise made earlier by President Félix Tshisekedi to include them in the cabinet.
#DRK
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🇸🇩🇦🇪Emirati Armored Vehicles Spotted with Sudanese Rebels
In the El-Fasher area, a NIMR Ajban 440A armored vehicle has been observed in use by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Based on the hull details and wheel armor configuration, this appears to be a late 2018–2020 production model with localized modifications.
The NIMR Ajban 440A is a light 4×4 armored vehicle produced in the UAE, offering protection compliant with the STANAG 4569 standard. It features a central tire inflation system and can serve as a platform for various weapon systems.
These vehicles began arriving in Sudan before the current conflict, and their widespread appearance in Darfur is viewed as an indicator of direct military support to the RSF from UAE-linked entities.
#Sudan
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🇺🇸 🇨🇩 US Sanctions Chinese Firms Mining Minerals in DR Congo
The US Treasury Department has imposed sanctions on four entities, including two Chinese companies, accused of illegally mining minerals in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and supplying them to global markets.
The sanctions target:
🔶the armed group Coalition des Patriotes Résistants Congolais–Force de Frappe (PARECO-FF), formed in 2022 in response to increased activity by M23 rebels;
🔶the Congolese mining firm Cooperative des Artisanaux Miniers du Congo (CDMC);
🔶 Chinese companies East Rise and Star Dragon, accused by the US of engaging in “illegal extraction” of minerals.
US Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence John K. Hurley said:
“The Treasury Department will not hesitate to take action against groups that deprive the United States and our allies of access to critical minerals essential to our national defense.”
The sanctions freeze the assets of the companies and their leadership, prohibit US citizens and firms from engaging in transactions with them, and impose administrative or criminal penalties for aiding in evading the restrictions.
Washington states the measures are part of efforts to resolve the conflict in eastern DRC and tensions between the DRC and Rwanda.
At the same time, the US has its own interest in the region’s resources: in July, the DRC’s foreign minister announced that after a potential agreement with M23, the government would seek to open talks with the US on mineral extraction in the country.
#USA #DRC
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🇫🇷 We now have a French version of the channel. Subscribe!
Nous avons maintenant une version française de la chaîne. S'abonner !
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🏴🇲🇺UK to Lease Chagos Archipelago from Mauritius for £35 Billion a Year
The UK has agreed to lease the Chagos Archipelago from Mauritius for £35 billion annually — a figure that ballooned tenfold during negotiations compared to the original terms. Despite the staggering cost, the British government has decided to go ahead, passing the financial burden onto taxpayers.
Covering just 62 km² in the Indian Ocean, the archipelago holds exceptional strategic value. It hosts a major naval base with an airfield jointly operated by the UK and the US. The facility plays a pivotal role in sustaining the American military presence in the Indo-Pacific region and is viewed by Anglo-Saxon powers as a key element in their China containment strategy.
#UK #Mauritius
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🇲🇿IS Releases First Mozambique Video in Years
The terrorist group Islamic State has released an 18-minute video titled “The Light of Jihad”, its first publication from Mozambique in a long time.
The footage presents the group’s version of the history of Islam in the region — from its arrival and the period of Portuguese colonization, described by the jihadists as “the first crusade,” through the era of communist rule to the present government. It is framed as a chronicle of the “revival of jihad” in Cabo Delgado province.
The video includes archival footage of the first ISIS fighters in Mozambique, who began training back in 2016, as well as scenes of attacks on government forces in other provinces, which the group claims mark the expansion of its influence.
Previously unpublished footage is also shown, such as an assault on a hunting camp. The video concludes with threats against the government, its allies, Rwanda, Europe, and Christians.
#Mozambique
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🔞 🇸🇴Somalia: Images Released Showing Aftermath of Bariire’s Liberation
Somali media have published photographs from the recently liberated town of Bariire in the Lower Shabelle province, showing dozens of fighters from the al-Qaeda–linked group al-Shabaab killed by Somali forces. The battle for the town lasted several days.
Bariire holds strategic importance: located just 60 km from the capital, it sits on key supply routes used by government forces in their fight against the militants. The surrounding lands are among the most fertile in Somalia, and al-Shabaab sought to control these agricultural areas to extort farmers and expand its influence.
#Somali
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🇬🇳Guinea’s opposition coalition FVG has called for nationwide protests starting September 5 against a constitutional referendum scheduled for September 21.
The opposition claims the referendum aims to extend the rule of transitional leader General Mamadi Doumbouya, violating the Transitional Charter that bars current officials from future elections. FVG also accuses the regime of repression, including killings of activists and media censorship. Authorities have not yet responded but previously insisted the referendum is for "constitutional reform."
Analysts believe the CNRD will maintain control, avoiding a repeat of the 2019-2020 protests that ousted President Alpha Condé.
#Guinea
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🇩🇿🇫🇷Algerians in France Targeted by Former Minister’s Harsh Remarks
Former Minister for European Affairs Noëlle Lenoir stated that “millions of Algerians in France pose a serious danger and could, at any moment, pull out a knife in the metro, at a train station, or get behind the wheel and drive into a crowd.”
Amid yet another flare-up in tensions between Paris and Algiers, such statements — even when made by former officials — are hardly surprising.
Judging by the tone, the French side is likely to continue speaking in this manner about both ordinary Algerians and Algerian political figures.
#Alger #France
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🇨🇮Côte d’Ivoire: Senior Opposition Figures Arrested
In Abidjan, former Defense Minister Moïse Lida Kouassi and former ambassador Boubakar Koné — both members of Laurent Gbagbo’s African Peoples’ Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PPA-CI) — have been arrested. The detentions came after the August 9–10 protests, with authorities accusing them of inciting unrest.
The party denounced the arrests as “kidnappings” and demanded the immediate release of the politicians. The prosecutor’s office rejects these claims, stating that the detentions are linked to an investigation into the burning of a bus and the vandalism of a police vehicle, incidents that occurred before the protests.
The involvement of former ministers and diplomats in opposition activities signals that mobilization is moving beyond street-level protests: the movement is attracting figures with governance experience and significant political influence, increasing organized pressure on the government in the long term.
#CôtedIvoire
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🇲🇱Mali: More Arrests Among Army Officials
In recent weeks, Mali has seen a series of arrests targeting individual army officials. Yesterday, two more officers were detained.
According to authorities, this is not part of any large-scale conspiracy. The investigations are disciplinary in nature and focus on allegations of corruption against specific individuals.
#Mali
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🇨🇮Côte d’Ivoire: Protests in Abidjan Against Ouattara’s Fourth Term
On August 9, thousands of opposition supporters took to the streets of Abidjan, the country’s capital, to oppose President Alassane Ouattara’s bid for a fourth term. Protesters also demanded the reinstatement of excluded opposition leaders in the list of presidential candidates.
The rally was organized by a united front of the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI) and the African Peoples’ Party (PPA-CI). The leaders of these parties — Tidjane Thiam and Laurent Gbagbo — were barred from running by court decisions: Thiam over citizenship questions, Gbagbo due to a criminal conviction.
Demonstrators chanted “No to a fourth term!” while waving national and party flags. The protest ended peacefully without clashes.
Under the constitution, a president is limited to two terms, but in 2020 the Constitutional Council ruled that with the adoption of the new Basic Law, the term count reset. The opposition strongly disputes this decision. In addition to Gbagbo and Thiam, former Prime Minister Guillaume Soro — currently in exile — and former Gbagbo ally Charles Blé Goudé were also excluded from the race.
#CôtedIvoire
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🇧🇫Burkina Faso: Special Forces Conduct Successful Raid in Kanchari
At dawn on August 9, members of the 24th Rapid Response Unit carried out an operation in the Gulmu area. According to security forces, several militants were neutralized, and seized firearms have been sent for examination. There were no military casualties, highlighting thorough preparation and effective reconnaissance.
This achievement adds to a series of operations aimed at clearing border areas and depriving extremists of infrastructure. The use of stealth infiltration tactics and precision strikes against key targets strengthens Ouagadougou’s control over the eastern frontiers and reduces the militants’ ability to regroup.
Notably, following setbacks in Diapaga, the armed forces have not turned a blind eye to the problem; instead, they have stepped up efforts to improve security in the country’s southeastern regions.
#BurkinaFaso
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🇳🇪 Niger reclaims its gold: the country's main mine is nationalised
The President of Niger, Abdourahamane Tiani, has ordered the nationalization of the Société des Mines du Liptako (SML SA), the country's sole industrial gold producer, due to serious contractual violations.
The company, largely controlled by the Australian McKinel Resources, failed to invest the promised 10 million dollars, accumulated tax debts, failed to pay salaries, and carried out mass layoffs.
The Nigerien state is taking control of this strategic sector, continuing the trend of nationalizing uranium mines, which began in 2024. This decision reflects the intention to return full control of the country's resources to the people of Niger.
In 2023, the Samira Hill mine (managed by SML SA) produced only 180 kg of gold, far below expected levels. Meanwhile, artisanal cooperatives in Niger continue to produce around 2 tons of gold annually.
#Niger
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🇲🇱Mali Parliament Unanimously Approves the National Charter for Peace and Reconciliation
The National Transition Council (CNT) of Mali unanimously approved the National Charter for Peace and Reconciliation in a special session, aimed at strengthening the country's security and social cohesion. This was reported by Deputy Chairman of the Parliamentary Defense and Security Committee, Fusseyni Ouattara.
The draft of the charter was submitted to the parliament by transitional president Colonel Assimi Goïta on July 22. Ouattara stated that the document resulted from public dialogue conducted across various regions and platforms. The main goal of the charter is to address issues related to terrorism and radicalism.
The document emphasizes respect for democratic principles, the rule of law, and social justice. A key role in implementing the charter's provisions will be played by the media and public opinion leaders, who will explain its significance to citizens. It is expected that the president will publicly announce the document soon.
#Mali
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🇧🇫Burkina Faso is actively modernizing its military strength
In recent months, the army has received the latest types of weaponry, including the SR5 guided multiple rocket launchers, VN22B armored vehicles, and SM6/WMA09 self-propelled artillery systems. In May, Chinese CS/SH1 howitzers were delivered, confirming the country’s effort to update its arsenal.
As a result, Ouagadougou is building a highly mobile military force equipped with modern heavy weaponry, capable of swiftly responding to threats and striking at long distances.
#BurkinaFaso
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