Congo Senate Lifts Ex-Leader Kabila's Immunity from Prosecution
Democratic Republic of Congo's Senate lifted former President Joseph Kabila's immunity from prosecution amid allegations he's supporting an armed rebellion in the east of the country.
Last month, Congo's justice ministry announced it would take legal action against Kabila for allegedly backing the M23 rebel group and the interior ministry suspended his political party. Kabila has denied the accusations.
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News24
2 hours ago
- News24
US military adjusts Africa security strategy
Africa should take greater ownership of its own security challenges. That was the message recently communicated by General Michael Langley, head of US Africa Command (USAFRICOM). The unit is part of the US Department of Defence and is responsible for all defence operations and security cooperation on the African continent. The announcement comes as the United States rethinks its military strategy in Africa, signalling a significant shift in its approach to security on the continent. This adjustment aligns with a broader strategic pivot under the Trump administration, which is prioritising homeland security and a leaner, more lethal military force, while reducing the US military footprint overseas, including in Africa. But what could it mean for the continent? Africa's global relevance With its growing population and vast natural resources, Africa is strategically important to Europe and the United States. 'Africa is a strategic partner with a large and growing youth population - projected to double by 2045 according to the African Economic Outlook,' Adib Saani, a foreign policy and security analyst, told DW. 'The continent is rich, holding vast mineral resources and strategic reserves like uranium that both Western and Eastern countries heavily rely on.' The continent was also home to 11 of the world's 20 fastest-growing economies in 2024. 'The US and others engage with Africa not just out of goodwill but because these resources are vital for running industries worldwide,' Saani said. This makes the relationship mutually beneficial - a win-win for Africa and the rest of the world. Adib Saani However, the Trump administration's defence strategy has shifted focus away from protecting the US from threats emanating from abroad, including countering terrorist organisations such as the so-called 'Islamic State' (IS) militant group and al-Qaeda, which have expanded their presence and capabilities in Africa. 'Sharing the burden' of security operations Previously, US military efforts in Africa combined defence, diplomacy and development. 'America has been a close partner in countering violent extremism, especially in Eastern and West Africa,' Saani explained. 'We have relied heavily on US logistics, training and intelligence sharing to address these threats. In terms of human security, the US has also contributed through USAID and other programs that have helped lift many out of poverty.' USAFRICOM head Langley said the military's priorities now focus on homeland protection, encouraging instead 'burden sharing' with African partners. He said the goal is to build local military capacity to enable independent operations and reduce reliance on US forces. This shift was evident during the latest African Lion joint military exercise. The annual event is the largest military exercise on the continent and emphasizes combined air, land and sea operations with more than 40 participating nations. The latest edition, in May, lacked the US-led efforts usually apparent and instead focused on collaboration and cooperation. What could reduced US involvement mean? Yet foreign policy analyst Adib Saani warned that a diminished US presence could create a power vacuum, emboldening militant networks and undermining years of counterterrorism efforts. 'If the US withdraws its support, it would hit us hard. It could embolden terrorists to carry out more lethal and audacious attacks, knowing there is no major power backing our fight. This would also dampen the morale of our soldiers who face these threats daily, and place significant economic pressure on affected countries,' he said. Abukar Mohamed Muhudin/Anadolu via Getty Images USAFRICOM currently deploys roughly 6 500 personnel across Africa and has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in security assistance. With that gone, Saani worries Africa will not be able to be fully independent when it comes to security. 'It will be difficult in terms of logistics and technology - we are simply not there yet. Security is a shared responsibility and works best when it involves multiple actors. In my opinion, Africa cannot do it alone.' Russia, China step in to fill security vacuum African countries will need to look for other allies - both new and old, say experts. China has already launched extensive military training programs for African forces, replicating aspects of the US military model, while Russian mercenaries have established themselves as key security partners in North, West and Central Africa. 'China's approach in the past has mainly been economic,' Saani explained. The US, he pointed out, has primarily focused on military support, in addition to providing economic help. 'The Russians have strong presence with both economic and military involvement. It feels like everyone is competing for attention. The clear message is that there's a need to diversify partnerships. We can't rely solely on the US; we may also need to engage more with the Russians and others.' Can Africa succeed alone? Some voices say the lack of US support could be a wake-up call for African countries, forcing them to consider their own resources and rise to the challenge. African nations must now take the opportunity to review their security resources, Saani said, and collaborate more closely. 'Building up our defence industry is also critical. This means developing industrial capacity and enhancing the capabilities of our armed forces,' he added. 'We also need to tackle corruption to ensure that funds are not getting lost in people's pockets but are instead used to improve people's lives.'
News24
13 hours ago
- News24
First group of South African soldiers deployed to DRC set to return home
The troops, who will be returning to Air Force Base Bloemspruit in Bloemfontein, will be welcomed by Minister of Defence Angie Motshekga. Their deployment was part of the SAMIDRC's efforts to restore stability in eastern DRC, where armed groups, including M23 rebels, have engaged in violent conflict. The mission was marred by tragedy as 14 soldiers lost their lives in a fight with the M23 rebels; their remains were repatriated for burial in February. The first group of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers who were deployed to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is expected to arrive back on home soil this week. The SANDF announced on Wednesday that its troops are set to arrive at Air Force Base Bloemspruit in Bloemfontein around midday on Friday. 'The troops will be welcomed by the minister of defence and military veterans, accompanied by members of the Military Command Council,' the SANDF said in a statement. Their homecoming marks the end of their participation in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC), which aimed to help restore peace in the conflict-ridden eastern region of the country. In May, South Africa announced the withdrawal of its troops months after the country lost 14 soldiers in a fight with the M23 rebels. The bodies of the 14 soldiers were allowed out of the war-torn area in February. The first group of soldiers was safely withdrawn and transported to an assembly point in Tanzania in April, where they waited the arrival of the remaining troops.
News24
14 hours ago
- News24
Alleged ISIS-linked kidnapping suspect seeks bail, denies State's case links him to crime
Zayd Gangat, an alleged ISIS leader, told the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court that the State's case against him was weak. Be among those who shape the future with knowledge. Uncover exclusive stories that captivate your mind and heart with our FREE 14-day subscription trial. Dive into a world of inspiration, learning, and empowerment. You can only trial once.
