Dr. Congo, M23 Rebels agree to agree to a ceasefire in eastern Congo amid talks via Qatar
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwandan-backed M23 rebels agreed to a ceasefire in eastern Congo until Qatar-mediated peace negotiations reached conclusion. This marked the latest ceasefire since rebels launched a massive attack in January, during which around 7,000 people were killed. Both sides described the negotiations as “frank and constructive,” jointly pledged to work towards peace, reaffirming their commitment to an immediate halt of hostilities and rejecting hate speech and threats. In March, Congo’s President Felix Zisekedi and Rwandan leader Paul Kagame reaffirmed their commitment to a “unconditional” ceasefire after having had in-person discussions in Qatar. Since the M23 launched an unprecedented attack in January, decades of conflict has intensified, acquiring Goma and Bukavu, two of the largest cities in eastern Congo, causing the fear of a wider regional conflict. Dr. Congo accused Rwanda of arming and supporting the M23 rebels. Despite allegations from both the United Nations and the United States, Rwanda refused to support the M23.
Macron calls for “forgiveness” in Madagascar’s French colonial rule
French President Emmanuel Macron began with the return of looted cultural artifacts and expressed his desire to seek “forgiveness” for French colonial rule over Madagascar. The island was under French colonial rule from 1896 to 1960, when it became completely independent. Macron confirmed his plan to return cultural items photographed during colonization, including the skull of King Tora, which was beheaded by the French army in 1897 and whose bodies were brought to France as a trophy. Macron called for cooperation between historians of both countries so that “truth, memory, history, and reconciliation can see the light of day.” During the two-day visit, the French president also announced plans to strengthen economic ties, including investment in major hydroelectric dam projects. He called for a “partnership” between the two countries over the strategic rare earth minerals needed for renewable energy, where Madagascar has a wide range of reserves.
Tanzania’s opposition leader was arrested prior to treason trial for party head
Chadema, a leading opposition in Tanzania, reported that at least two senior members have been arrested to head to the rally in support of party leader Tundu Lis, who was facing trial for treason. Chadema spokeswoman Brenda Rupia confirmed that Vice-chairs John Heche and Secretary-General John Mnyika were among those detained in Dar Es Salaam. Rupiah condemned the arrest ahead of the October election as part of a broader crackdown on human rights and democratic freedoms. Lis was arrested and charged on April 10 with a speech allegedly incited a rebellion against the upcoming October elections and another charge of releasing false information. Chadema was recently disqualified from competing in future elections after refusing to sign the election code of conduct. They said it was a way to “ensure that the ruling party is in power.”
South Africa and Ukraine are discussing bilateral relations and deepening cooperation
President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted Ukrainian President Voldimi Zelenkie school in a Union building in Pretoria, marking his first official visit from the Ukrainian head of state to South Africa. The visit was intended to deepen bilateral relations and strengthen cooperation across several sectors. Ramaphosa has acknowledged Ukraine’s support during South Africa’s liberation struggle, including education for exiled South Africans in Ukraine. The leaders discussed peace diplomacy, post-conflict reconstruction, and increased cooperation in agriculture, trade, education and energy. Zelenskyy proposed the creation of a joint mineral hub for the production of fertilizers and expressed interest in energy cooperation, including atoms and renewable sources. Both presidents reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism, the rule of law, and global peace and security.
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Benin confirms 54 soldiers killed by al-Qaeda in a border attack
Benin’s government confirmed that 54 soldiers had been killed in a fatal attack by suspected jihadists near the border between Burkina Faso and Niger. Authorities previously said that only eight soldiers had been killed. The attacks claimed by al-Qaeda linked Jamaat Nusrat Al-Islamic Wal Islimeen (JNIM) marked the most deadly known attack since jihadists began operating in northern Benin a decade ago. Jnim, based in Mali but active throughout the Sahel, claimed he had attacked 70 soldiers with two military posts. In recent years, jihadist violence has spread south to countries like Benin and Togo. President’s spokesman Serge Nonvignon described the incident as “a heavy loss to the people,” and government spokesman Wilfried Leandre Haunvedezi reaffirmed Benin’s resolve to beat the jihadists, declaring that the state would not give it.
