On May 27, 2025, WATHI and the Konrad Adenauer Foundation held a roundtable in Dakar to examine Senegal’s economic situation in light of the Senegal 2050 Agenda, following President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s election. A public finance audit revealed a budget deficit of 11.7% of GDP and a central government debt of 105.7%. The Senegal 2050 Plan aims to foster inclusive growth, reduce poverty, decentralize the economy, and strengthen national sovereignty. Discussions highlighted major structural issues: weak tax performance, lack of transparency, and a struggling informal sector. Participants called for fiscal reform, stronger parliamentary oversight, investments in education, and gender-sensitive policies. Economic trust and governance are seen as key. Experts stressed the need for coordinated action among public, private, and civil society stakeholders to achieve sustainable development and inclusive prosperity.

Politics, Political party, State, Economic Development, Natural ressources, Education, Development, Gold, Soicial sciences, Researh

On June 6, 2025, young Togolese protesters mobilized in several cities, notably Lomé, to denounce the enduring regime of Faure Gnassingbé, in power since 2005 and heir of a political dynasty that has ruled Togo for over 50 years. This mobilization reflects a broader pan-African youth uprising, where young people challenge locked, illegitimate, or neo-colonial political systems. The article highlights similar movements elsewhere in Africa: in the Sahel against French military presence, in Kenya against anti-social economic policies, and in the Democratic Republic of Congo regarding government inaction on persistent insecurity. The author, Bah Traoré, examines the “myth of the political and social struggle,” suggesting that these movements represent demands for renewal, democratic alternation, and a desire for sociopolitical transformation through youth-driven popular revolts.

Politics, Governance, Youth, Social, Crisis, Pan-Africanism

The “Ça fait débat avec Wathi” episode highlights that the moral failure of many political leaders worldwide threatens democracy and social peace. Guests emphasize that abuses of power, corruption, populism, and disregard for public ethics fuel violence and fear of the future. This crisis of trust affects both major Western democracies and African nations, where authoritarian drift undermines social cohesion. The speakers call for an ethical renewal, the restoration of integrity, and accountability from leaders to prevent conflict escalation and safeguard democratic balance.

Politics, Bribery, Governance, Peace, Democracy, Violence

The article focuses on rising political discourse in Côte d’Ivoire, led by Laurent Gbagbo, emphasizing that “stability and security do not require lifelong power.” It analyzes tensions surrounding the potential fourth term, reactions from the PPA‑CI, and the “Trop c’est trop” movement. Tidjane Thiam joins this momentum, criticizing Alassane Ouattara’s record. The author highlights the risks of prolonged leadership without democratic alternatives. He then turns to Togo, discussing unrest sparked by the arrest of artist Aamron and cracks within Faure Gnassingbé’s inner circle, fueled by an ex-minister’s critique. The piece warns against using force and institutional lock-downs, which threaten social cohesion. In conclusion, the author advocates for respecting democratic rules and peaceful transitions of power.

Politics, Governance, Security, Democracy, Crisis

This country profile on Mauritania reviews political, security, economic, and social developments since 2020, focusing on the period under President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani. It discusses attempts at democratic reform, ongoing challenges in tackling corruption, and the ambiguous stance on human rights. The document also highlights northern security tensions, refugee reintegration issues, and growing socio-economic inequalities. Additionally, it provides insight into the country's natural resources (gold, iron, gas), pastoralism, and environmental concerns. Finally, the profile emphasizes Mauritania’s complex geopolitical position, straddling North Africa and sub-Saharan Africa.

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

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

The article “L’influence des leaders religieux musulmans sur la politique au Mali”, by Pape Abdou Ndour (Bah Traoré), published April 14, 2023 by WATHI, examines the growing political influence of Muslim religious leaders in Mali. Although Mali is officially secular, religious dignitaries have strengthened their role: they sway public opinion, direct voting behaviour, pressure the government, and can influence law adoption (such as the 2009 Family Code). The piece highlights figures like Mahmoud Dicko and the High Islamic Council, who played roles in political crises—organizing protests, mediating conflicts, and influencing constitutional reforms. The debate over secularism has resurfaced with a new constitution: some leaders advocate for an “Islamic” or multiconfessional state and oppose secularism. The author emphasizes the leaders’ roles as mediators, political influencers, and sometimes decisive actors in Mali’s political life.

Culture, Politics, Governance, Influence

The article “Crises and Knowledge Production: A State of Universities in the Sahel”, published by WATHI on June 26, 2024, highlights how political instability, terrorism, and chronic underfunding have severely weakened universities in the Sahel. These institutions suffer from repeated strikes, staff emigration, reduced budgets, and a lack of connection between academic research and policymaking. Yet, universities hold critical potential to understand and address crises through interdisciplinary research. However, a major gap persists between academic outputs and their integration into decision-making processes. The article calls for a shift: universities should be recognized as strategic centers for crisis analysis. It recommends enhanced investment in local research, stronger collaboration between scholars and policymakers, and efforts to ensure that knowledge production informs public policy and societal needs.

Politics, Political party, Natural ressources, Security, Education, Gold, Social, Soicial sciences, Researh, Knowlege production

One year after Bassirou Diomaye Faye (PASTEF) was elected President of Senegal, this report reviews key reforms undertaken. The year was marked by a transition period, the appointment of technocrats, and judicial reforms including the creation of a Financial Judicial Unit. Despite economic measures (price cuts, public finance audits, the launch of “Senegal 2050”), the high cost of living remains a challenge. In foreign policy, the government has asserted its sovereignty by initiating the closure of French military bases and renegotiating international agreements. However, public expectations remain high, particularly concerning gender parity, transparency, reduction of state spending, and youth employment. Political debate still overshadows substantive discussions on public policy reforms.

Politics, Political party, State, Natural ressources, Justice, Education, Gold, Soicial sciences, Researh, Knowlege production