The article denounces the growing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, after a Ukrainian attack on the headquarters of the Russian fleet in the Black Sea. Details of the attack remain unclear, but it is believed to have resulted in the death or injury of senior Russian commanders. The governor of Sevastopol, installed by Moscow, warned the city’s residents of a possible new Ukrainian missile attack. The situation in Ukraine is fragile and unstable, and it is important to monitor its developments closely. The international community must continue to monitor the situation and put in place measures to defuse tensions. The Ukrainian people deserve peace and stability, and we must support them in this quest.

The article highlights the commitment of African First Ladies to gender equality at the United Nations General Assembly. Under the theme “We are all equal: closing the gender gap in Africa”, the discussions focused on the empowerment of women, the promotion of education and maternal health, the fight against violence based on gender and strengthening female leadership. The First Ladies reiterated their commitments and stressed the importance of concrete action to achieve these objectives. The presence of Jill Biden, First Lady of the United States, was welcomed and the unifying campaign for gender equality in Africa was evaluated. First Ladies continue to play a key role in promoting gender equality in Africa and around the world.

During the Mediterranean Meetings in Marseille, Pope Francis delivered a strong speech calling for European responsibility in the face of the migration issue. He stressed the importance of a common approach to managing this phenomenon, as well as the need for interreligious dialogue and the fight against economic inequalities. His visit to Marseille also includes meetings with residents of working-class neighborhoods and a giant mass at the Vélodrome stadium. Pope Francis thus reaffirms his commitment to migrants and the most deprived, highlighting the importance of solidarity and fraternity.

The ADF terrorist attacks in the Irumu region of the Democratic Republic of Congo have suffered another tragic toll. The number of civilian victims now stands at 5, in addition to the 8 combatants neutralized. Two more bodies were discovered, while other civilians are believed to remain missing. The Think Tank for Democracy and Human Rights (CRDH) calls for vigilance and demands urgent measures to put an end to the activities of the ADF. It is crucial to pay close attention to this worrying situation and support efforts to restore peace in the Irumu region.

In September 2023, a civil society platform was launched in Ivory Coast to support cocoa farmers towards a more sustainable practice. With nearly a million producers, the cocoa sector is crucial for the Ivorian economy, but faces many challenges in terms of traceability. The platform works closely with 55 producer organizations, providing them with clear information on new regulations and helping them set up traceability systems. Farmers see this initiative as valuable help to meet the demands of the European market and improve the reputation of Ivorian cocoa. In the medium term, the platform aims to reach around a hundred farmer organizations across the country. In conclusion, this platform is a promising step forward for a more sustainable and competitive sector.

In Mauritania, a charter of national understanding was signed between the government, the ruling party and two historic opposition parties. This initiative aims to open a dialogue and define a common roadmap before the 2024 presidential election. The signing ceremony marks a desire for reconciliation and appeasement between the different political forces in the country. This charter provides for discussions on 18 major themes, such as national unity and governance. Although some opposition parties were not informed of the final draft before its signing, this initiative represents a significant step forward in the democratic process in Mauritania. It remains to be seen whether other parties will join this movement and whether the discussions will lead to concrete reforms.

In this article, we explore the phenomenon of “Sonkorisation” in Senegal, a strategy used by supporters of the Pastef movement to express support for their imprisoned leader, Ousmane Sonko. This tactic consists of appropriating cultural, sporting and everyday events by singing slogans in Wolof to maintain the visibility of the movement. Although this approach has received mixed reactions, it is a testament to the organization, commitment and determination of Pastef supporters to make their voices heard.