Your go-to English source for news from Ouagadougou and Burkina Faso, updated daily.
Former Senegalese President Macky Sall’s aspirations for a prominent role in global diplomacy have encountered an unexpected and formidable obstacle. While initial continental support from 55 African nations seemed to pave his way as a potential successor to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, a recent alignment involving Togo, Senegal, and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) […]
With polling stations in Benin now closed for the presidential election held on April 12, 2026, the outcome reveals a striking contrast to regional instability. While neighboring West African nations grapple with political turbulence, Cotonou has delivered a remarkably calm electoral process, validating the outgoing administration’s proactive security strategy. Facing a daunting challenge, Benin navigated […]
Since the military takeovers in 2020 and 2021, Mali has undergone a radical strategic shift under the direction of Assimi Goïta. Adopting a staunchly sovereigntist stance, the administration has pivoted away from long-standing Western alliances to forge fresh security and economic bonds with nations like Russia and the UAE. While framed as a restoration of […]
Nearly three months following the initial events, the final of the CAN 2025 tournament remains a contentious subject. On January 18 in Rabat, Senegal had initially secured a 1-0 victory on the pitch after extra time. However, on March 17, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) controversially overturned this outcome, awarding Morocco a 3-0 default […]
The nation of Benin is holding its breath this Sunday, April 12, 2026, as citizens cast their ballots in a historic presidential election. This pivotal vote marks the end of President Patrice Talon’s decade-long tenure and sets the stage for the country’s future direction. Polling stations across Benin opened at 7:00 AM sharp, with 17,764 […]
Across Benin, over 17,000 polling stations opened at 7:00 AM, marking the start of a pivotal election. Nearly 8 million registered voters are expected to cast their ballots to elect Patrice Talon’s successor, a significant moment for the nation’s democratic journey. Cotonou – As dawn broke, the process began. Electoral officials from the CENA (Commission […]
Far from succumbing to fear, Benin is turning its security challenges into an unparalleled modernization drive. With the 2026 presidential election on the horizon, President Patrice Talon’s administration is positioning itself to set a new standard for stability across West Africa. The approach? A blend of resilience, innovation, and forward-thinking strategies designed to ensure the […]
Morocco and Mauritania strengthen military ties to combat rising instability in the Sahel Rabat and Nouakchott expand joint security initiatives targeting border security, terrorism, and organized crime amid growing regional fragility Introduction to security cooperation General Mohammed Berrid’s visit to Nouakchott Morocco-Mauritania Military Commission Institutional ceremony and political recognition Key issues discussed in bilateral meetings […]
The Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), the primary armed wing of Al-Qaeda in the Sahel, has claimed responsibility for two coordinated assaults in western Niger that resulted in multiple casualties and infrastructure damage. In a statement released via its usual propaganda channels, the JNIM detailed the operations, which targeted security forces […]
With just 48 hours remaining before the official end of the electoral campaign, the village of Lobogo, located in the Bopa municipality, is buzzing with activity. Here, Paul Hounkpè, the candidate for the Forces Cauris pour un Bénin Émergent (FCBE), is fighting for his political credibility. Between the enthusiasm of his supporters and the criticisms […]
Military-led governments across the Sahelian states—Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—are actively consolidating a new security and political partnership, marking a distinct departure from their historical Western affiliations. Russia is a pivotal force in establishing this emerging alliance, strategically stepping into the power vacuum created by the diminished presence of the United States and its allied […]
Senegal challenges CAF ruling over Morocco’s CAN 2025 title The drama surrounding CAN 2025 refuses to fade. After the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) controversially awarded the African championship to Morocco on technical grounds two months post-final, Senegal has taken legal action at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Adding fuel to the fire, […]