The article “Governance and Economic Development in West Africa: Linking Governance with Economic Misery” investigates the nexus between governance and economic development across West African countries. Using indicators such as political stability, government effectiveness, and corruption control, the authors evaluate governance performance in the region. Findings reveal that while Cape Verde, Ghana, and The Gambia achieve relatively positive scores, most countries suffer from institutional weaknesses. Mali is highlighted as a case of severe decline, driven by recurrent political and security crises. The study argues that poor governance significantly contributes to “economic misery” by exacerbating poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment. The authors emphasize that strengthening domestic institutions—through transparency, accountability, and democratic participation—is essential for sustainable economic progress and social stability in West Africa.

State, Governance, Economic Development, Justice, Education, Development, Threat, Researh, Knowlege production, Institution

The article “Japan Innovates to Deepen Its Relations with Africa” by Paul Nantulya examines the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), held in August 2025 in Yokohama. Japan reaffirmed its distinctive approach, based on co-creation, joint ownership, and blended public-private financing, standing apart from traditional aid models. The conference brought together leaders from 42 African countries along with over 500 stakeholders from business, academia, and civil society. Japan’s engagement revolves around three pillars: economy (value chains, added-value exports, regional integration), society (health, education, youth and women inclusion), and peace and stability (support for APSA, peace operations, counter-terrorism, and transnational crime). Concrete initiatives include training 300,000 young Africans, developing trade corridors (Nacala, Mombasa, Kinshasa), and industrial investment in critical minerals. The article stresses Japan’s enduring credibility in Africa, derived from its collaborative, cautious, and innovation-driven approach to partnership.

Politics, Political party, Economic Development, Natural ressources, Security, Peace, Education, Development, Gold, Human security

This report examines the evolution of Islamic donors in the Sahel, from their historical roots to their recent strategic shifts. Initially framed by South-South solidarity and the oil shocks of the 1970s, Gulf donors gradually expanded their influence through religious and private aid, notably via Islamic NGOs and non-profit organizations. The study highlights the privatization of aid, the emergence of a “Muslim humanitarianism,” and the growing role of Salafist NGOs in social work, especially in Senegal. These actors, perceived as close to communities, provide assistance considered accessible and effective, while challenging traditional Western cooperation models. Their strategies include delegitimizing classical partners and reshaping local socio-political dynamics. The report concludes that international agencies must adapt, build partnerships with legitimate Islamic actors, and integrate local cultural and religious contexts to enhance peacebuilding and sustainable development in the region.

Politics, Political party, State, Economic Development, Natural ressources, Donor, Gold, Social, Aid, Civil Society

This study examines the sharp decline in under-five mortality in Burkina Faso from 2010 to 2021, using Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) data and the Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition method. Findings indicate that under-five mortality dropped from 128 per 1,000 live births in 2010 to 48 per 1,000 in 2021. The decline is mainly explained (77%) by performance effects, including behavioral changes and the effectiveness of health policies, while demographic composition changes accounted for only 23%. Key factors include the reduction in uneducated mothers, wider use of mosquito nets, urbanization, and improved health behaviors among unemployed women. Nevertheless, significant disparities remain in high-risk regions such as the Sahel and the Southwest, where targeted interventions are essential to improve healthcare access and reduce inequalities. The study highlights the importance of integrating health policies with education, economic development, and sanitation for sustained progress.

Politics, Economic Development, Gender, Conflict, Religious education, Education, Development, Family, Women, Soicial sciences, Researh, Knowlege production, Démographie, Santé publique

In June 2025, Action Against Hunger (ACF) released a monitoring bulletin on micro-enterprises in Bassikounou, Mauritania, as part of its economic resilience program. The study assessed 50 ACF-supported micro-enterprises, mainly operating in retail trade, catering, and services. Findings indicate an average 18% increase in turnover since the previous assessment, despite ongoing challenges such as supply chain issues, rising prices, and limited product diversification. Most beneficiaries are women (72%), who report improved income and autonomy. However, reliance on local markets and low savings capacity continue to hinder the sustainability of these businesses. The report recommends strengthening management training, diversifying business sectors, and improving access to credit.

Economic Development, Natural ressources, Security, Education, Development, Gold, Aid, Private sector, Civil Society, Funding

The article highlights the unprecedented Washington meeting held from July 9 to 11, 2025, between Donald Trump and five African presidents (Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, Senegal). While Trump implemented an executive order suspending U.S. aid and pivoting his foreign policy towards bilateral deals grounded in trade and security, this summit presents a strategic opportunity for Senegal, under President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Aligning with its “Senegal 2050” agenda, the country can capitalize on this shift by asserting regional leadership, showcasing its strengths in security, energy, and digital sectors, and positioning itself as a key player amid China and BRICS influence. The global shift from traditional aid to structured commercial partnerships provides a platform for Senegal to emerge as a reliable strategic partner, attracting productive investment.

Governance, Economic Development, Security, Diplomacy, International cooperation

The article "Climate Change: Mitigation and Adaptation in the Sahel and West Africa", based on a dialogue by WATHI and the SWAC, highlights the region's growing vulnerability to climate change. Sahel and West Africa face rapid biodiversity loss, agro-pastoral conflicts, droughts, floods, and forced displacement. Urbanization and demographic pressure increase competition for resources. Panelists call for an energy transition based on renewables, improved water management, integration of local knowledge, and a shift in scientific research towards practical solutions. The report urges a rethinking of development policies through a sustainable, inclusive, and low-carbon lens.

Politics, Political party, Economic Development, Climate change, Natural ressources, Development, Gold, Soicial sciences, Researh, Knowlege production

The article titled “Financing and Transforming Agriculture in the Sahel and West Africa”, written by Dr. Maman-Lawal Bagoudou Mossi, addresses the structural challenges of agriculture, especially in Niger. Structural adjustment programs in the 1980s led to the withdrawal of the state from productive sectors, dismantling support systems for farmers and limiting access to credit. This disengagement increased dependency on imports and worsened trade imbalances. Commercial banks, ill-suited for the realities of agriculture, created a gap filled by the Agricultural Bank of Niger (BAGRI), which offers inclusive credit schemes, particularly for women and youth. The article calls for a major overhaul of agricultural financing, including guaranteed funds, public-private partnerships, modernization of farming techniques, and targeted support policies for producers.

State, Economic Development, Gender, Natural ressources, Education, Development, Gold, Soicial sciences, Researh, Knowlege production

This bulletin, published by Action Against Hunger (ACF) in May 2025, presents monitoring data from 64 microenterprises supported in Bassikounou, Mauritania. The report highlights the continued economic vulnerability of households, despite support for income-generating activities (IGAs). Average monthly income remains low (27,540 MRU) and unstable, particularly for women (22,250 MRU). Households face heavy expenses for health, food, and education, with limited savings capacity and weak income diversification. The report also notes the negative impact of climate shocks on economic activities. While beneficiaries acknowledge positive effects from the program, their prospects remain precarious without structural support, enhanced market access, training, and financing opportunities.

Agriculture, Economic Development, Gender, Natural ressources, Education, Development, Gold, Aid, Private sector, Funding