Africa Archives - Kazo FM

Mali’s Goita whips to crack dissent

Written by kazofm.admin on May 14, 2025. Posted in Africa, News.

Mali’s military junta has dissolved all political parties nationwide amid escalating crackdowns on dissent since seizing power. A presidential decree read on state TV on Tuesday announced the suspension of all political meetings and activities across the country. The order, signed by military leader Assimi Goïta—who took power after coups in 2020 and 2021 comes despite his pledge to hold elections with the junta remaining in control for at least another five years.

The move is likely to trigger increased resistance from opposition parties demanding a return to democracy. Last week, following a rare pro-democracy protest two opposition leaders were abducted by armed men claiming to be police but authorities have not commented on these arrests.

A national conference organized by the regime but boycotted by major opposition groups recommended extending Goïta’s rule until 2030 prompting widespread condemnation from critics and human rights organizations. The decree warned Malians against ignoring the dissolution but did not specify penalties. It stated that individuals in political or administrative roles could continue working without party affiliation.

This order follows the suspension of political activities, another recommendation from the conference which had already sparked protests that were later postponed. Opposition leaders condemned the crackdown; Nouhoum Togo of the Union for the Safeguarding of the Republic (USR) urged people to value their political voice despite suppression while Moussa Mara, a former prime minister called it a severe setback to reconciliation efforts.

Analysts suggest the junta aims to break away from old political elites associated with France shifting regional alliances toward Russia by forming partnerships with Burkina Faso and Niger. Mali has also withdrawn from ECOWAS, the regional bloc over its demands for democratic restoration with Burkina Faso and Niger following suit.

Kabila to Return to DRC amid increased tensions

Written by kazofm.admin on April 9, 2025. Posted in Africa.

Former President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Joseph Kabila has declared his intention to return to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after six years of silence and self-imposed exile. This move is poised to significantly alter the country’s already precarious political landscape.

Kabila made the announcement via a statement on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “I’m going home. After six years of silence and a year of exile, I have resolved to return to the Democratic Republic of Congo without delay. I will enter from the eastern part of our territory. The country’s situation demands it. It is time to participate, with determination, in the search for real solutions.”

His return comes at a critical moment as the DRC faces heightened political tensions and insecurity especially in the eastern regions where armed groups continue to pose serious challenges to stability. Kabila, who ruled from 2001 to 2019 before handing power to current President Félix Tshisekedi has remained an influential yet enigmatic figure in Congolese politics.

Relations between Kabila and Tshisekedi have become increasingly fraught with Kabila accusing the current administration of corruption, human rights violations and electoral manipulation. Tshisekedi, in turn has suggested that Kabila acts as the “invisible hand” behind ongoing rebel activities including alleged support for the M23 movement, notorious for its brutal attacks in North Kivu and Ituri provinces.

Kabila’s plan to enter the DRC through its eastern territories carries significant implications. It is viewed as not only symbolic but provocative given the region’s volatility and Kabila’s supposed connections with local armed groups. Analysts are concerned that his return could exacerbate tensions between opposing political factions and reignite suspicions regarding his motives.

“This is not just a homecoming. It’s a political statement,” remarked a political analyst in Kinshasa. “Kabila is positioning himself as a national savior at a time when confidence in Tshisekedi’s leadership is faltering.”

The announcement has sent shockwaves through Congolese politics raising questions about the balance of power as the nation approaches its next electoral cycle. Whether Kabila’s return signals the dawn of a new political chapter or the intensification of an already volatile situation remains uncertain.

While the Congolese government has yet to respond formally to Kabila’s announcement, insider sources indicate that security forces are on high alert in anticipation of potential unrest.

Meanwhile, Kabila’s supporters have begun mobilizing across various regions, advocating for his “restoration” to leadership. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on how this unexpected return will impact the DRC’s future.

Sudanese Army Claims Khartoum Control

Written by kazofm.admin on March 28, 2025. Posted in Africa, News.

The Sudanese army has announced that it has cleared the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) from Khartoum marking a significant shift in control nearly two years after the paramilitary group initially took the capital. In a statement released late Thursday, military spokesman Nabil Abdullah declared that “our forces today have forcibly cleansed the last pockets of the remnants of the Daglo terrorist militia in Khartoum locality.” The term “Daglo” refers to the RSF, led by Mohamed Hamdan Daglo which has been in conflict with the military since April 2023.

The announcement follows army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s declaration on Wednesday that the capital was “free” from RSF influence, made from the recently reclaimed presidential palace. After suffering defeats for a year and a half, the army launched a counteroffensive that successfully advanced through central Sudan and regaining strategic locations like Khartoum city and the Jebel Awliya Bridge.

Military analysts have stated that RSF fighters are now “pushed westwards towards Darfur,” with limited options for resupply or retreat. According to sources within the army, there are still pockets of RSF fighters holed up in residential buildings throughout Khartoum, reluctant to emerge for fear of capture.

In response, the RSF issued a statement asserting that there would be “no retreat and no surrender,” claiming that their forces had merely repositioned. They vowed to deliver “crushing defeats to the enemy on all fronts.”

The RSF also revealed a new “military alliance” with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North, led by Abdelaziz al-Hilu, which has engaged in conflicts with both the army and RSF. The two factions signed a political charter last month aimed at establishing a rival government.

On Thursday evening, residents in the Blue Nile state capital of Damazin reported drone attacks targeting the local airport and the nearby Roseires Dam marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict as paramilitary forces and their allies continue their aggressive operations.

As the situation in Sudan evolves, the struggle for power between the army and the RSF remains fraught with both sides displaying a commitment to their causes amidst the ongoing turmoil.

Riek Machar’s Arrest Sparks Conflict Fears

Written by kazofm.admin on March 27, 2025. Posted in Africa.

South Sudan’s First Vice President, Riek Machar was arrested Wednesday in a dramatic escalation of tensions with President Salva Kiir as the United Nations warned the country teeters on the brink of widespread violence. A convoy of 20 heavily armed vehicles stormed Machar’s residence in Juba resulting in the disarmament of his bodyguards and an ambiguous arrest warrant.

The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) condemned the actions of the Minister of Defense and the Chief of National Security, stating, “The country’s leaders stand on the brink of relapsing into widespread conflict.” UNMISS head, Nicholas Haysom emphasized that potential breaches of the 2018 peace agreement would devastate South Sudan and extend insecurity throughout the region.

The fragile power-sharing deal between Kiir and Machar has been faltering raising fears of a return to the civil war that resulted in approximately 400,000 deaths from 2013 to 2018. Analysts suggest that the 73-year-old Kiir has sought to sideline Machar through cabinet reshuffles and since February over 20 of Machar’s allies within the unity government and army have been detained.

Violent clashes have erupted, particularly in Upper Nile State, where government forces reportedly attacked military training centers established for integrating opposition forces into the unified army—a key component of the peace deal. Machar’s military wing condemned these actions as “terrorism” and called for international intervention.

The escalating violence and political instability have instilled fear among residents. Lilian Sukeji, a Juba resident, expressed her concerns, stating, “I feel like we are going back to war while we still need peace. Our leaders need to embrace dialogue rather than guns.”

Despite Kiir’s claims of commitment to peace following a meeting with church leaders, recent clashes indicate a worsening situation. International observers, including Norway and Germany have closed their embassies in Juba. The British and US embassies announced reduced staffing and urged citizens to evacuate signaling the mounting concern over the potential for a broader conflict in South Sudan.

M23 withdraw from peace Talks with Congo amid Sanctions

Written by kazofm.admin on March 18, 2025. Posted in Africa.

The M23 rebel group backed by Rwanda has withdrawn from peace talks with the Congolese government which were scheduled to begin this week in Angola’a capital,Luanda. The group’s spokesman, Lawrence Kanyuka, cited international sanctions imposed by the European Union on several M23 members as the primary reason for their withdrawal stating that the sanctions have rendered the dialogue “impracticable.” Kanyuka also highlighted ongoing military offensives by Congo’s army in the conflict-torn region as a contributing factor undermining the potential for successful talks.

“The consequences of these sanctions and the continued offensives against us mean our organization can no longer continue to participate in the discussions,” Kanyuka stated in a press release.

Despite M23’s withdrawal, the Congolese government expressed its commitment to the dialogue in Angola. A delegation had already traveled to Luanda vowing to proceed with discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo. Tina Salama, spokesperson for President Felix Tshisekedi, confirmed the delegation’s presence.

The conflict escalated significantly in January when M23 rebels advanced capturing the important city of Goma and later Bukavu in February. Angola which has taken on a mediatory role in the conflict had planned to facilitate direct negotiations between the two parties starting Tuesday.

Previous peace talks between Congo and Rwanda were abruptly canceled in December after Rwanda insisted on direct negotiations with M23 which Congo flatly rejected. Tshisekedi characterized dialogue with the group as a “red line” during a speech to the diplomatic corps earlier this year.

M23 is among approximately 100 armed groups competing for control in eastern Congo, a region rich in minerals and situated near the Rwandan border resulting in one of the most severe humanitarian crises globally where over 7 million people have been displaced due to the ongoing conflict.

International observers report that M23 receives support from around 4,000 Rwandan troops, and there have been threats from the rebels to advance towards Congo’s capital, Kinshasa.

In response to the ongoing violence and human rights abuses associated with the conflict, the United Nations Human Rights Council recently launched a commission to investigate allegations of atrocities committed by both sides.

Compounding regional tensions, Rwanda severed diplomatic relations with Belgium on Monday and expelled Belgian diplomats following Belgium’s suspension of development aid to Rwanda last month. Rwandan President Paul Kagame accused Belgium of attempting to destabilize Rwanda.

The EU imposed sanctions on five Rwandan nationals including the commander of Rwandan special forces in eastern Congo and four Congolese nationals affiliated with the M23 including its political leader Bertrand Bisimwa. These sanctions extend to Rwanda’s sole gold refinery, Gasabo Gold Refinery which the EU accused of engaging in “illegal extraction and trafficking” of natural resources from eastern Congo.

The eastern region of Congo is not only rich in gold but also holds significant deposits of critical minerals used in smartphone and computer production. According to a UN report, M23 generated approximately $300,000 monthly from its control of a mining area in eastern Congo last year.

Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department expressed interest in developing a partnership in the mining sector in Congo confirming preliminary discussions have begun. President Tshisekedi met with U.S. Special Envoy to Congo, Rep. Ronny Jackson, on Sunday to explore potential security and economic collaborations emphasizing the need for peace to attract American investment in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

2 senior figures in South Sudan’s main opposition party arrested

Written by kazofm.admin on March 6, 2025. Posted in Africa.

The arrest of Army General Gabriel Duop Lam, a senior figure from South Sudan’s main opposition party has been described as a “grave violation” of the peace deal that ended a five-year civil war according to a spokesperson for the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO). General Lam along with other senior officials affiliated with the SPLM-IO, was detained earlier this week amid escalating tensions in the region.

These officials are allies of Vice-President Riek Machar whose longstanding rift with President Salva Kiir ignited a devastating conflict in 2013. The SPLM-IO spokesperson Puok Both Baluang expressed concerns about the lack of information regarding the whereabouts of the detained officials. “We are doing our best to avoid any escalation to the situation; however, we need our partners in peace to demonstrate the political will to assure that this country will not go back to war,” Baluang stated.

In response, President Kiir maintained that South Sudan would not return to war with government spokesperson Michael Makuei insisting that the arrests were made because the opposition figures were “in conflict with the law.”

Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has faced significant challenges including a civil war that erupted just two years later after Kiir dismissed his cabinet and accused Machar of orchestrating a coup. The conflict resulted in approximately 400,000 deaths and displaced 2.5 million people. A peace agreement reached in 2018 aimed to restore stability but has remained precarious.

General Lam, who oversees the military wing of the SPLM-IO was taken into custody earlier this week while Oil Minister Puot Kang Chol was reportedly seized by security forces during the night. Additionally, Machar’s residence in Juba was briefly surrounded by troops from the South Sudanese army before the situation was de-escalated.

The deteriorating security landscape follows reports that the White Army militia, which allied with Machar during the civil war seized control of a strategic town in Upper Nile state. Accusations have arisen from Kiir’s loyalists, claiming that Machar’s allies are providing support to the rebels.

Baluang asserted that the recent escalation of violence including clashes between the White Army and government troops, “would have been avoided” if the national army’s leadership had adhered to the peace agreement.

Both the United Nations and the African Union have issued warnings that violence in the region could spread and further destabilize the fragile peace. Ter Manyang, director of the Juba-based Center for Peace and Advocacy, emphasized that unless top leadership effectively manages the situation, the country risks sliding back into war.

As South Sudan prepares for its first elections scheduled for 2026 after years of delays, the urgency for a stable political environment has never been greater.

Tshisekedi offers minerals for peace in DRC

Written by kazofm.admin on February 24, 2025. Posted in Africa.

President Felix Tshisekedi in his first interview since the Rwandan-backed M23 armed group seized large portions of territory in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) earlier this year, extended an invitation to the United States and Europe to invest in the country’s vast mineral wealth. This sector which is currently dominated by China is rich in resources critical for global technology and energy including cobalt and coltan.

Congo, viewed as one of the richest countries in terms of natural resources accounts for a significant share of the world’s coltan, essential for smartphones and computers and possesses over half of the world’s cobalt reserves, crucial for electric vehicles. President Tshisekedi sees the potential for major investments to bolster his country’s security and stability amidst ongoing conflict which he likened to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The president criticized existing European negotiations with Rwanda, describing a £935 million agreement that grants access to minerals like tin, tungsten, and gold as “an absolute scandal,” asserting that those minerals are being “plundered” from Congo. The European Union, however, contends that this arrangement will foster better regulation of conflict materials. Recently, the European Parliament called for the suspension of the deal until Rwanda ends its interference in Congo.

The M23 armed group, comprised of approximately 8,000 fighters allegedly backed by Rwanda has killed thousands and captured strategic locations including major cities Goma and Bukavu since launching its offensive earlier this year. In response to the escalating violence, the U.S. imposed sanctions on an M23 spokesman and a Rwandan minister.

From Kinshasa, Tshisekedi expressed frustration about the stalled peace talks, stating he refuses to negotiate directly with M23, which he views as a proxy for the Rwandan military. “M23 is an empty shell,” he said emphasizing that dialogues should be held directly with Rwanda. Rwandan President Paul Kagame has denied any connection to M23 and labeled Tshisekedi’s accusations as a “tired story.”

The situation remains delicate, with the U.S. warning of the risk of a broader regional war, especially following M23’s recent military advances toward Butembo and ambitions reportedly aimed at Kinshasa. Tshisekedi has vowed to reclaim Goma “either through dialogue or military reconquest.”

In light of the crisis, Tshisekedi highlighted that the Trump administration had expressed interest in securing a direct supply of strategic minerals from Congo. He also mentioned potential investments in significant projects, such as a megadam that could become the world’s largest hydroelectric plant, indicating a keenness for international partnerships to bolster his nation amid the ongoing conflict.

Wafula Chebukati, former IEBC Chairman is dead

Written by kazofm.admin on February 21, 2025. Posted in Africa, News.

Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati, the former chairman of Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), has died at the age of 63 after a long battle with a critical illness. He was declared clinically dead at a local hospital leaving his family to grapple with the heartbreaking decision of whether to discontinue life-support measures.

Chebukati’s career was marked by his commitment to electoral integrity and resilience particularly during tumultuous times. Appointed by former President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2017, he oversaw two landmark elections; those of 2017 and 2022 that significantly influenced Kenya’s political landscape. Remarkably, Chebukati became the first IEBC chair to complete a full six-year term retiring in January 2023 amidst challenges that included internal divisions and intense external scrutiny.

In a statement expressing his condolences, President William Ruto described Chebukati as a “principled and diligent leader who served the nation with integrity,” adding, “His death is a great loss to our country. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”

Born in 1961 in Bungoma County, Chebukati held a law degree from the University of Nairobi and earned a Master of Business Administration from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. He practiced law for over three decades, founding Wanyonyi & Company Advocates in 1986 before co-founding Cootow & Associates Advocates in 2006. He stepped away from private practice upon his appointment as IEBC chairman.

Chebukati’s tenure was not without its controversies. He presided over the 2017 presidential election, which was annulled by the Supreme Court, prompting a repeat election. His announcement of William Ruto as the President-elect in 2022 led to dissent within the commission with four commissioners vocally opposing his declaration. Amidst these challenges, he was recognized for his public service with the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH), one of Kenya’s highest civilian honors.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Chebukati was a passionate golfer and held leadership positions at Mombasa and Nyali Golf Clubs as well as serving on the committee of the Kenya Golf Union.

Chebukati’s death is expected to prompt reflections on his legacy in Kenya’s electoral history as the nation considers the progress and obstacles facing its democratic processes. His family, colleagues and the broader community mourn the loss of a leader who tirelessly aimed to uphold the integrity of Kenya’s electoral system.

Kiir dismisses two vice-presidents, spy chief

Written by kazofm.admin on February 11, 2025. Posted in Africa, News.

South Sudan’s President, Salva Kiir has dismissed two of his vice-presidents, the country’s spy chief and several other senior officials. The dismissals were announced through a series of presidential decrees broadcast on state television with no reasons given for the sudden changes.

The affected vice-presidents are James Wani Igga, a veteran politician and general who has held the position since 2013 and Hussein Abdelbagi Akol from the opposition alliance SSOA. Akol has been reassigned as the minister for agriculture replacing Josephine Joseph Lagu, who will now take over as vice-president.

Benjamin Bol Mel, a special presidential envoy and former subject of US sanctions for alleged corruption has been appointed to replace Igga as vice-president. Mel’s appointment has sparked speculation that he may be positioned as a potential successor to Kiir.

The president has also sacked the country’s spy chief, Akec Tong Aleu who had only been in office since October. The position remains vacant with no replacement announced.

The dismissals come as South Sudan struggles to implement the 2018 peace agreement which has been fraught with challenges. The agreement established a power-sharing government with five vice-presidents, including Kiir’s longtime rival, Riek Machar.

The changes have raised questions about the stability of the government and the potential implications for the country’s fragile peace process. The SPLM-In Opposition, led by Machar has not commented on the matter leaving uncertainty about the future of the coalition government.

South Sudan has not held elections since gaining independence in 2011 with the most recent polls postponed multiple times. The country’s leadership has announced that elections will now take place in December 2026 but the delay has raised concerns about the government’s commitment to democratic principles.

Nujoma dies at 95

Written by kazofm.admin on February 9, 2025. Posted in Africa.

Sam Nujoma, the first president of independent Namibia has passed away at the age of 95 in Windhoek. This has been confirmed by the country’s current leader, President Nangolo Mbumba. Nujoma, a pivotal figure in Namibia’s struggle for independence from South African rule, died after spending three weeks hospitalized with an illness.

President Mbumba announced Nujoma’s death with “utmost sorrow and sadness” and praised him as a revolutionary leader who inspired Namibians to reclaim their land. “Our founding father lived a long and consequential life during which he exceptionally served the people of his beloved country,” he stated.

Nujoma played a crucial role in founding the South West Peoples’ Organisation (SWAPO) in the 1960s, which became a central force in Namibia’s liberation movement. He led the nation to independence in 1990 and served as president until 2005 before stepping down as president of the ruling SWAPO party in 2007 after 47 years of leadership.

Tributes have poured in from Namibians who remembered Nujoma fondly as the “father of the nation.” A visibly emotional President Mbumba visited Nujoma’s home to offer condolences to his family including his wife, Kovambo Theopoldine Katjimune who is 91 years old.

Under Nujoma’s guidance, Namibia achieved peace and stability post-independence. His national reconciliation policy played a significant role in encouraging the white community to stay in the country ensuring they remained integral to the economy. He was also a staunch advocate for women’s and children’s rights.

Vice-President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, set to be inaugurated as president in March, lauded Nujoma’s “visionary leadership and dedication to liberation and nation-building” as foundational for Namibia’s current unity and freedom.

Condolences have also come from across Africa, with African Union Commission chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat recognizing Nujoma as “the epitome of courage.” South African President Cyril Ramaphosa hailed Nujoma as an “extraordinary freedom fighter” who not only advanced Namibia’s fight against colonialism but also contributed significantly to the struggle for democracy in South Africa.

Kenya’s President William Ruto described Nujoma as a “visionary leader” committed to the liberation and development of his nation.

Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced as Namibia mourns the loss of its founding leader and national icon.