This Week in Africa
August 18, 2023
Adom Getachew discusses history’s presence. Here is the week in Africa:
Quote of the week
“The Mount Elgon region has always been home to running talent, and we’re only just beginning to showcase it.” – Long-distance runner Joshua Cheptegei
Coup in Niger
The coup in Niger creates an opening for Russia, but also a turning point for Africans. The situation was always an uphill battle for Ecowas, as opposition against a military intervention was strong. This USIP brief suggests how to reverse the coup trend in the region. Sebastian Elischer discusses what determines a return to civilian rule. This is why the generals felt threatened. The detention brings a personal cost for the president. Why isn’t everyone talking about Niger? Does this signal more instability in the region?
War in Sudan
Facebook removed RSF pages from its platform. There are calls to protect Sudan’s rich and ancient heritage amid ongoing war.
Senegal’s democracy
Senegal’s government is threatening its democracy. Detained Senegalese opposition leader Ousmane Sonko is in intensive care after a two-week hunger strike.
Security and instability
Ethiopia faces a threat from Amhara militias, further threatening stability. An ISIS affiliate expands in central Africa. This is what the withdrawal of Minusma from Mali says about peacekeeping’s future.
Struggle for rights and freedom
Sally Hayden argues that mass death has become normalized in Europe’s migrant crisis. Alex de Waal argues that the deluge facing Africa’s leaders is going to get worse. Learn more about strengthening grassroots women’s groups in Uganda. Disabled Nigerians face difficulties taking minibuses. Kais Saied is building a new dictatorship in Tunisia. And meet the comeback preacher who wants to be Zimbabwe’s president.
Africa’s rapid urbanization
This important article analyzes the role of urban master plans in Lilongwe, Dar es Salaam, and Accra (and this one too). This looks good: Nature-Based Solutions for Cities.
Research corner
Sam Wilkins explains the role of village chairpersons in the perpetuation of authoritarianism during Uganda’s 2018 election. I look forward to reading Hotel Mogadishu. This book explores memories of German colonialism in Tanzania. Daniel Paget explains the changing terrain of electoral rallies in Africa.
The week in development
Does Nigeria face an economic dawn? Africa faces a war on food. How to navigate public health emergencies in Africa.
Advancing dignity through data.
Africa and the environment
Nigeria coastal communities build flood barriers with mud and sticks. This new article examines climate, weather, and child health in Burkina Faso. Gabon invests more in marine conservation. Demand for hippo ivory is threatening the species. This is how to foster collaboration to confront environmental challenges on the continent. Summer heat hits hard. July was the hottest month on record. Africa needs more investment in weather systems. Changing climate pushes migrating birds from parched Tunisian wetlands.
Daily life
Uganda emerges as a hotbed of long-distance running stars. The beauty and burden of being a Nigerian bride.
All the best,
Jeff and Phil