The article by the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, published on July 5, 2023 (updated May 10, 2024), details Russia’s extensive interference across Africa aimed at undermining democracy. Russia employs both official means (UN resolution blocks) and irregular tactics (disinformation, Wagner paramilitary group, illicit arms deals) to bolster authoritarian regimes and obstruct democratic transitions. Russian influence has been documented in 28 African countries. The report highlights how disinformation campaigns, electoral manipulation, and support for unconstitutional power grabs are interwoven to sustain anti-democratic governance. This strategy weakens institutions, distorts public discourse, and undermines the will of African citizens who largely support democracy. The analysis warns of long-term consequences for national sovereignty and democratic resilience across the continent.

Politics, Political party, Natural ressources, Education, Democracy, Election, Gold, Influence, Infowar, Information

This article examines Africa's structural dependence on external actors in its technology sector, particularly highlighting cyber vulnerability risks. The continent’s ICT infrastructure is largely dominated by Chinese and American firms, raising serious questions about digital sovereignty. The author presents Africa’s tech stack in five layers (apps, operating systems, consumer products, infrastructure, service providers) and details global actors’ market shares. Despite foreign influence, African governments and firms retain strategic agency, illustrated by emerging cybersecurity regulations and homegrown innovation. The article urges African states to prioritize cybersecurity, promote supplier diversity, and better adapt technology choices to local needs. Reducing overreliance on foreign actors and strengthening national capacities are framed as key to safeguarding Africa’s digital future.

State, Natural ressources, Security, Justice, Gold, Poverty, Human security, Influence, Private sector, Information

The July 2023 military coup in Niger reversed a decade of socio-economic and democratic progress achieved under elected presidents Issoufou and Bazoum. Prior to the coup, Niger was experiencing steady economic growth, reduced extremist violence, and institutional strengthening. Since the junta's takeover, conditions have worsened: a surge in terrorist attacks, a dramatic drop in economic forecasts, rising food prices, erosion of press freedom, suspension of democratic bodies, and a wave of pro-Russian disinformation. The junta dismantled transparency mechanisms and compromised national sovereignty, notably by granting concessions to Russian-affiliated groups like Africa Corps. These actions jeopardize both domestic and regional stability, underscoring the critical role of democratic governance in sustainable development and citizen empowerment.

State, Sovereignty, Natural ressources, Security, Peace, Justice, Education, Gold, Human security, Infowar, Information, Coup d'État, Disinformation

The July 2023 military coup in Niger reversed a decade of democratic and socio-economic progress. Under democratically elected presidents Issoufou and Bazoum, Niger had made significant advances in security, economic growth, governance, and press freedom. Since the junta took power, these achievements have deteriorated: a 67% increase in terrorism-related deaths, economic decline, media repression, loss of civil liberties, and decreased transparency. The junta has also strengthened ties with Russia, enabling disinformation and controversial mining concessions. The dissolution of elected institutions and militarization of governance reflect a major crisis in national sovereignty and democratic order. This regression not only destabilizes Niger but has broader implications for West African regional stability.

State, Economic Development, Natural ressources, Security, Peace, Justice, Education, Democracy, Gold, Human security, Medias, Infowar, Information

This report documents the sharp rise in disinformation campaigns across Africa—from 50 in 2022 to 189 in 2024—with nearly 60% sponsored by foreign state actors, chiefly Russia, China, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia. West Africa is the most targeted region, with 72 campaigns, particularly in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. These campaigns aim to shape political narratives, undermine democracy, support military coups, and discredit international institutions. Russia-linked networks, including Wagner, have been central in the Sahel. The report also highlights increasing domestic disinformation, notably during Kenya’s 2022 and Nigeria’s 2023 elections, as well as growing involvement of Islamist militant groups. Disinformation is spreading rapidly due to social media use and declining press freedom, posing a significant threat to stability, civil rights, and democratic governance across the continent.

Politics, Political party, State, Natural ressources, Education, Gold, Social, Influence, Infowar, Information

The joint pastoral surveillance bulletin by Action Contre la Faim (ACF) and Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Belgium (VSF-B) for February–March 2025 reports an overall satisfactory pastoral situation in Niger. Pastures remain widely available, surface water is sufficient, and markets are accessible. However, livestock body condition has slightly declined and suspected cases of animal diseases persist, though less than in previous periods. Prices of livestock and cereals have decreased, leading to a mild deterioration in terms of trade for herders. Incidents of bushfires, livestock thefts, and inter-community conflicts have also declined. The report recommends increased vaccination, awareness campaigns on transhumance, and better youth engagement to sustainably manage pastoral resources. Efforts should focus on improving disease surveillance, supporting pastoral markets, and sharing strategic information across communities.

State, Boundary, Livestock, Natural ressources, Security, Justice, Education, Gold, Information, Marché

Niger is facing a complex humanitarian crisis characterized by insecurity, food shortages, epidemics, flooding, and high malnutrition rates. In 2025, 2.2 million people—8% of the population—are projected to be in acute food insecurity. Armed conflict, administrative barriers to humanitarian access, and the suspension of USAID funding are worsening the situation. Acute malnutrition remains alarming: 1.7 million children are expected to be affected, including 412,000 with severe acute malnutrition. The most impacted regions are Diffa, Tahoua, Maradi, and Tillabéri. ACF operates in these areas with an integrated, multisectoral approach including health, nutrition, WASH, and food security, with special focus on displaced populations and pastoralists. Despite strong impact, only 12% of the response needs are currently funded. The report calls for urgent, coordinated, and adequately resourced action to prevent a worsening of the crisis.

Natural ressources, Security, Education, Family, Food security, Gold, Human security, Information, Insécurité, Malnutrition

n 2025, Mauritania is experiencing a complex humanitarian crisis exacerbated by ongoing insecurity, climate change, and a significant influx of 318,000 Malian refugees and 55,000 returning Mauritanians. During the lean season (June–September), an estimated 590,452 people will face acute food insecurity (IPC Phase 3+), particularly in the Hodh Chargui region. While agro-pastoral conditions are generally favorable, localized floods and high food prices are straining vulnerable households. Action Against Hunger's emergency response has improved food diversity, coping strategies, and key nutritional indicators. Despite being a socioeconomic pillar, pastoralism is increasingly threatened by environmental degradation and cross-border pressures. Stronger partner support is crucial to prevent conflicts and build long-term resilience.

Gender, Natural ressources, Security, Education, Food security, Gold, Human security, refugee, Information, Malnutrition, Emergency

The Pastoral Surveillance Bulletin of Mauritania for February-March 2025 reports an overall satisfactory situation despite a decline in pastoral resources due to bushfires and increased livestock pressure, particularly in Hodh Chargui. Grazing resources remain generally available, and livestock body condition is good. However, suspected outbreaks of animal diseases, including peste des petits ruminants and foot-and-mouth disease, are reported. The bulletin also highlights the ongoing arrival of Malian refugees, increasing strain on resources and infrastructure. Market assessments show variable commodity prices, with unfavorable terms of trade for herders in certain areas. Support actions such as livestock e-tagging have been implemented. Recommendations emphasize strengthening resilience, improving animal health awareness, and mitigating potential conflicts in agropastoral zones.

State, Economic Development, Pastoralism, Livestock, Natural ressources, Security, Education, Gold, Human security, Information, Marché