The Al Haouz earthquake had a devastating impact on traders in the area, like Imad, a pottery shop owner. The disaster caused significant material damage, putting Imad’s income at risk. Despite everything, he showed generosity by offering meals to the victims. However, the future remains uncertain for him and he is counting on state aid. The Moroccan government announced a budget for reconstruction, economic recovery and rehousing of disaster victims. Despite the difficulties, solidarity remains present and we must hope that traders can rebuild and regain economic stability.

The First Lady of the DRC, Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi, met the United Nations under-secretary in charge of conflict-related sexual violence, Pramila Patten, during her stay in New York. The Director General of FONAREV, Lucien Lundula Lolatui, presented the actions and roadmap of the organization during this meeting. Pramila Patten is committed to supporting FONAREV in its repair actions and to sharing good practices observed in other countries. This collaboration marks an important step in the fight against sexual violence in the DRC and will improve reparation actions in the country.

The arrest of Pierre Kayondo, suspected of participation in the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, shook Le Havre in France. Aged 70, Kayondo would have played a key role in organizing the exterminations. His capture followed a complaint filed by the Collective of Civil Parties of Rwanda, which seeks to find the suspected genocidaires in France. Kayondo is said to have trained interahamwe militias, supplied weapons and held positions at Mille Collines radio. The hunt for genocidaires on French soil is progressing, but the legal process takes time. Only around thirty cases are still under investigation. The Collective of Civil Parties of Rwanda welcomes this arrest, despite the legal delays. The case highlights the importance of the universal jurisdiction of French justice, while underlining the need to speed up procedures to guarantee justice for victims of the genocide. Kayondo’s arrest raises hopes of justice for the victims and reminds us of the importance of prosecuting suspected genocidaires.

The 7th edition of the Cities and Economic Corridors Development Exhibition, entitled “Expo Béton”, will be held in Kolwezi, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This event, scheduled for early October 2023, is organized with the aim of promoting the economic development of the member countries of the DRC-SADC Southern Corridor. The themes covered will include urban planning, infrastructure, energy, housing, logistics, SMEs, trade, multimodal transport and industry. Experts and economic players from the region will be brought together to think about ways to transform the Southern Corridor into a profitable zone for all. High-level sessions, open days, networking sessions and a sponsor dinner are planned on the program. Kolwezi, as the locomotive of the DRC-SADC Southern Corridor, is ready to host this large-scale event and strengthen economic ties between member countries.

A suicide attack in Beledweyne in Somalia left 13 dead and more than 40 injured. Although not claimed, this attack comes as the Somali government is leading an offensive against the Shebab. Somali authorities are facing setbacks in their fight against Islamists and are calling for a postponement of the withdrawal of African Union troops. The Somali president reaffirms his commitment to ensuring security and stability in the country, but emphasizes the importance of international cooperation to fight terrorism in Africa. Support from the international community is essential to ending insecurity in Somalia.

In September 1973, Guinea-Bissau proclaimed its independence, marking a historic milestone for the West African country. The ceremony takes place in a symbolic and strategic setting, with moving speeches recalling the many years of struggle for independence. This proclamation of independence affirms the sovereignty of the State and celebrates international solidarity. Fifty years later, it is important to remember this historic event and pay tribute to the heroes who fought to achieve freedom and independence for their country. Guinea-Bissau remains today an inspiring example of resistance and determination in the face of colonial oppression.

Niger’s participation in the UN General Assembly has been controversial due to the military regime’s takeover following a coup. The UN excluded the coup government from the speakers’ schedule, citing the need to conform to democratic principles. The military junta reacted strongly by accusing the UN of bias and conspiracy with certain ECOWAS member states. The situation raises questions about how the UN handles coup governments and highlights tensions between the UN and member states. It is essential to find peaceful political solutions to guarantee the stability and development of countries in crisis.