Author: Emmanuel Mbala

Strained Franco-Nigerien Relations: A New Chapter In a move emblematic of the growing tensions between Niger and France, the Nigerien government has announced the nationalization of Somaïr, a subsidiary of the French uranium giant Orano. The decision was broadcast by Niger’s National Television, following a council of ministers meeting that accused Orano of irresponsible and hostile behavior against Niger’s sovereignty. By this nationalization, Niger has asserted full ownership over Somaïr’s assets, an action that potentially exacerbates the already frosty relations between Niamey and Paris. Geopolitical Ripples Beyond the Sahara The nationalization of Orano’s subsidiary is not occurring in a vacuum…

A Call for Legislative Action The Association of Parents of Students and Pupils in Congo (Apeec) recently embarked on a campaign to urge the Congolese Parliament to take decisive action against the perceived encroachment of LGBT culture. In a declaration made on June 19 in Brazzaville by secretary-general Benjamin Kimona, Apeec expressed concerns about rising LGBT visibility, which it claims does not align with Congolese societal norms. Addressing Educational and Sexual Misconduct In its extraordinary general assembly held from June 18 to 19, Apeec explored critical issues, emphasizing sexual misconduct and fraud in the education sector. The association cited the…

The Diplomatic Riddle: Examining Trump’s Criteria In Kinshasa and Brazzaville, capitals of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Republic of the Congo respectively, residents ponder the basis of Donald Trump’s 12-country travel ban list that predominantly targets African nations. Despite their geographic proximity, the DRC is exempt, while the Republic of the Congo faces restrictions. Commencing June 9, citizens from several countries, including the Republic of the Congo, will no longer be eligible for U.S. visas. Trump’s list encompasses nations like Afghanistan, Myanmar, and several African countries, prompting questions regarding the underlying criteria for selection. A Regulatory…

A Strategic Move by the PCT In a calculated step towards political consolidation, the Congolese Labour Party (PCT) announced the formation of a preparatory and organizational committee for its upcoming VIth Ordinary Congress. Established by Act No. 021 on June 17, 2025, under the aegis of the Party’s Secretary-General, Pierre Moussa, this committee is tasked with the essential mission of planning a successful electoral strategy aimed at the 2026 presidential elections. A Committee Designed for Victory With an eye towards securing an overwhelming triumph, the newly-formed committee comprises forty-one members, featuring a prominent inclusion of nine women. As outlined in…

Congo Rolls Out Cash Transfers: A Social Safety Net On May 19, in Brazzaville, the launch of conditional cash transfers marked a significant step in Congo’s National Social Safety Net Program. Targeted at vulnerable households, the initiative seeks to alleviate the financial burdens associated with children’s education and healthcare in impoverished families. This program is set to expand across other departments in Congo, illustrating a concerted effort to foster social welfare at a national scale. The Unseen Threat: Digital Fraud Looms Large As this promising initiative unfolds, there looms an equally significant challenge in the form of digital fraud. Scammers…

Congo’s Legal Dilemma The Republic of Congo finds itself at a critical juncture as it confronts wildlife crime through its judicial system. On June 19, 2025, two significant legal proceedings are set to unfold. These sessions will take place at the Tribunal de Grande Instance in Brazzaville and the Cour d’Appel in Dolisie, located in the Niari department. These cases highlight the pressing issue of environmental crime, a challenge for conservationists and legal experts alike. Brazzaville’s Juridical Stage The Tribunal de Grande Instance in Brazzaville will adjudicate on several matters involving alleged wildlife offenses. This court is central to the…

WHO Reaffirms Brazzaville’s Position In a decisive move aiming to quell widespread speculation, WHO’s Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, reaffirmed Brazzaville as the enduring site of the organization’s African regional office. This announcement came during a meeting with Congolese Ministers Jean Claude Gakosso and Jean Rosaire Ibara in Geneva, counteracting rumors of relocation with a firm dismissal. Strengthened Ties with the Congolese Government Dr. Tedros expressed his pleasure at the robust partnership between the World Health Organization and the government of the Republic of Congo. The Congolese authorities have demonstrated their commitment by allocating land for the construction of a…