### Without withdrawals and tensions in ECEAC: an analysis of regional issues
The withdrawal of Rwanda from the Economic Community of Central African States (ECEAC) cannot be perceived as a simple isolated event. This dichotomous choice – which took place during the recent conference of leaders in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea – raises crucial questions both on the regional political climate and on security dynamics in Central Africa.
Derek J. Arhin, president of the Institute of African Affairs, stressed in a recent analysis that this withdrawal could be interpreted as a response to concerns in the face of the “instrumentalization” of the organization by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The accusations of favoritism and lack of impartiality within the ECEAC, mainly in favor of Kinshasa, add a layer of complexity to a region already marked by historical tensions. This decision was also precipitated by the extension of the mandate of the current Equatoguinean president at the head of the organization, while Rwanda had anticipated changes which could have enabled it to exercise a more influential role in the regional structure.
Behind this decision is emerging a larger table, where conflicts and geopolitical rivalries between the states of the region exacerbate the difficulties. The context is particularly complex in eastern DRC, where persistent violence fueled by armed groups have repercussions not only on Congolese security, but also on the stability of neighboring countries. Rwanda, which has often been accused of military interventions in this region, seems to seek to distance itself from this complex game. This raises questions about the future of regional security and development cooperation in Central Africa.
In parallel, in Kenya, the fight against pornography offers another angle on conservative values and the challenges posed by modernity. Although current legislation severely punishes the marketing of pornography, the digital landscape is evolving quickly, making law application difficult. Young people, especially women, turn to platforms like X and Tiktok to share content, in the hope of income. This situation highlights the gap between the legislation and the economic reality of young Kenyans, where employment opportunities are limited. The phenomenon also questions the ability of institutions to regulate new media in the face of practices that defy traditional social norms.
In Mali, the withdrawal of the armed forces from the Boulkessi military camp, in response to deadly attacks from jihadist groups, illustrates the precarious evolution of security in the Sahel region. The Malian context is marked by uninterrupted violence, which highlight the challenges faced by the Malian army and the need to find lasting solutions to a lasting crisis. The growing attacks in this region, which affect not only Mali, but the entire Sahel, challenge the effectiveness of the commitment of the national security forces and the need for enhanced cooperation within the Alliance of the States of the Sahel (AES) and ECOWAS.
The current situation also raises the question of international engagement and its effectiveness in the face of African crises. The rise in tensions and disunity within organizations like ECEAC suggests that, rather than looking for solutions on a regional scale, the countries concerned could focus on national interests, sometimes to the detriment of fruitful cooperation. A collective reflection could therefore be necessary to approach security threats in a concerted manner, while respecting the sovereignty of each State.
### Conclusion
The withdrawal of ECCEAC Rwanda, Kenya’s challenges to regulate digital platforms, and growing tensions in Mali, illustrate a complex African reality where political, economic and security issues intertwine. While each country is faced with unique challenges, a collaborative approach, nourished by open dialogues and compromises, could offer ways to appease tensions and work towards a more serene and community future in the region. The development of holistic solutions, taking into account political and social concerns, will be essential to promote stability and prosperity in Central Africa and beyond.