Wednesday’s African Short News Roundup

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The following news has been the focal point of discussions in local African media.

Complete Withdrawal of U.S. Troops from Niger

General Kenneth Ekman of Africom has confirmed that the U.S. will complete its withdrawal of military personnel from Niger by early August.

This decision comes in response to demands from the local military regime.

Renewed Diplomatic Ties Between Sudan and Iran

Sudan and Iran have officially resumed diplomatic relations after an eight-year hiatus.

This development marks a significant shift in regional dynamics, with both nations appointing ambassadors to facilitate bilateral engagements, starting July 21, 2024.

Rough Diamond Auction Nets Nearly 20 Million Euros for Angola

Angola’s National Diamond Trading Company, Sodiam, secured $21.6 million (approximately €19.9 million) from a special auction.

The auction featured 2,974.24 carats of unique diamonds. The state-run firm announced this achievement.

The auction featured 46 special stones from the rough diamond productions of the mining societies SOMILUANA, LULO, KAIXEPA, LUELE, and CATOCA. It was held at Sodiam’s facilities in Luanda from July 15–23.

All gems were sold, with LULO’s revenues reaching $12.4 million (€11.4 million), the highest among the entities, followed by CATOCA’s $4.6 million (€4.2 million).

Failed Coup in Sierra Leone Leads to Heavy Sentences

Several ex-military personnel were sentenced on Monday to lengthy prison terms for their roles in a failed coup attempt in Sierra Leone on November 26, 2023.

The violence targeted military barracks and resulted in the deaths of over 20 individuals and the release of approximately 2,200 prisoners.

In addition, a unanimous jury found eleven defendants guilty of multiple charges, including treason.

Cape Verdean Airline Pilots Suspend Strike After Agreement

International flight pilots of Cape Verde’s public airline, TACV, have called off a six-day strike planned for this week following an agreement with the company’s management.

The deal was reached after mediated discussions in Praia, involving government representatives and facilitated by the Cape Verdean Directorate General of Labor.

Union leader Edmilson Aguiar announced the suspension and expressed optimism about resolving all concerns for the benefit of the company and its pilots.

Military Detainees Not Released Despite Court Order in Guinea-Bissau

In Guinea-Bissau, over 30 military personnel, including prominent figures José Américo Bubo Na Tchutu and Júlio Nhaté, remain imprisoned.

This is despite a Superior Military Court order for their release, according to a source disclosed to VOA.

High-Level Benin-Niger Delegation Aims to Ease Tensions

Following the tensions from the July 2023 coup in Niger, a high-level delegation from Niger, led by General Mohamed Toumba, visited Cotonou on June 24.

They met with officials from Benin to discuss matters of mutual interest. This meeting, initiated by former Benin presidents Yayi Boni and Nicéphore Soglo, aims to address ongoing concerns.

This is despite the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) lifting sanctions against Niger in February 2024.

NATO Appoints a Special Representative for the Sahel

NATO’s Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg announced the appointment of Javier Colomina as the special representative for the Sahel region.

Colomina’s role will enhance NATO’s engagement and coordinate efforts with local partners.

Deadly Attack in Northern Togo

A severe attack in northern Togo near the Burkina Faso border resulted in multiple casualties and significant damage.

The assault on Togolese defense and security forces was claimed by the Support Group for Islam and Muslims (JNIM).

Despite no official statement, public sentiment and social media postings underline the severity of the incident.

More: Angola news in English, every day from The Rio Times.

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