Latest news with #Burkinabè
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Burkina Faso military accused of killing over 100 civilians in 'massacre'
At least 130 civilians were killed by Burkina Faso government forces and allied militia in March near the western town of Solenzo, Human Rights Watch (HRW) says in a new report. It says the "massacre", following an operation led by Burkinabè special forces, resulted in widespread civilian deaths and displacement of ethnic Fulanis. The Fulani are a pastoralist, largely Muslim community who the government has often accused of backing Islamist militants - an allegation denied by community leaders. About 40% of Burkina Faso is under the control of groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State operating in West Africa's Sahel region. The attacks, in which thousands of people have been killed and millions displaced, have continued despite promises by the country's military leaders to deal with the insurgency. Ahead of the release of the HRW findings on Monday, there were reports of more militant attacks over the weekend with dozens of military and civilian casualties. The BBC has not been able to confirm these reports and the authorities do not routinely comment on reported jihadist attacks. The BBC has approached the Burkina Faso government for comment on the HRW report. Last year, the government described as "baseless" another HRW report that had accused soldiers of a "massacre" in which 223 villagers were killed. Why Burkina Faso's junta leader has captured hearts and minds around the world Why West Africa has more 'terror deaths' than rest of world combined The rights group says it interviewed witnesses, militia members, journalists and the civil society and analysed videos shared on social media to make the findings regarding the army's involvement in the March killings. HRW previously said the army was "implicated" in the killings, based on videos that were being shared online showing dozens of dead and injured people, although the findings were not definitive. It now says further research has "uncovered that Burkina Faso's military was responsible for these mass killings of Fulani civilians". It adds that least 100 more civilians were killed last month in reprisal attacks by jihadist groups against those seen as helping the military. "Mass killings of civilians by government security forces, militias, and Islamist armed groups amount to war crimes and other possible atrocity crimes," it says. The rights group has urged the government to investigate and prosecute all those responsible for the crimes. This came as junta leader Capt Ibrahim Traoré returned from Moscow after a Friday meeting with Vladimir Putin on cooperation and security in the Sahel. Since the military seized power, Burkina Faso has turned away from colonial power France and towards Russia for help in tacking the Islamist insurgency. Freed captive tells BBC of life in West African jihadist base Why some Ghanaians are fighting in insurgency-hit Burkina Faso Burkina Faso outcry over 'conscription used to punish junta critics' Mali and Burkina Faso: Did the coups halt jihadist attacks? Go to for more news from the African continent. Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica Africa Daily Focus on Africa
Libya Review
06-05-2025
- Politics
- Libya Review
Libya Deports Hundreds of Migrants to Niger
A Nigerien human rights organisation, Alarm Phone Sahara, reported that at least 783 migrants – most of them Nigerien nationals, including women and minors – were deported from Libya and returned to remote desert towns in northern Niger between 28 March and 25 April. The deportees remain stranded, as Niger's authorities refuse to allow them entry. The organisation revealed that the migrants had mostly been held in Libyan detention centres before being forcibly expelled. They were left in isolated towns such as Madama, Lataye, and Seguedine, all located in the desert region of Kawar, where access to humanitarian aid is limited. Alarm Phone Sahara confirmed one fatality among the 407 migrants in the latest convoy arriving in Madama on 25 April. This group included 10 Burkinabè and 7 Nigerians. The organisation also expressed deep concern over migrants reportedly stranded in the desert after their vehicle broke down, exposed to extreme weather without adequate resources. According to the group, Libyan security forces are pushing migrants southwards from areas under the control of the eastern-based General Command. Migrants are reportedly rounded up during public raids, placed on trucks, and either deported directly to southern Libya or detained before forced transfer to Niger. Testimonies gathered by the group describe strict controls along the Libya-Niger border, with Niger opposing the entry of non-Nigerien deportees and threatening to return them to Libya. The deportations sparked strong condemnation from Niger's Interior Minister Mohamed Toumba during an April meeting with an International Organization for Migration (IOM) delegation. Toumba labelled the expulsions 'unacceptable' and said they violated international cooperation norms. Since the July 2023 coup, Niger's junta repealed anti-human trafficking law 036/2015, prompting increased irregular migration flows to Libya and Algeria. The EU suspended its migration cooperation with Niger after the coup. Tags: DeportationImmigrationlibyamigrantsNiger
Business Insider
25-04-2025
- Politics
- Business Insider
4 African countries added to U.S. travel warning list in April
The U.S. Department of State has recently updated its travel warning for several countries in April including four in Africa. The U.S. Department of State issued travel advisories for four African countries in April The affected countries include Ghana, Burkina Faso, Morocco, and Uganda The U.S. State Department in April, issued updated travel warnings for Ghana, Burkina Faso, Morocco, and Uganda, urging U.S. citizens to exercise caution or avoid travel altogether. The updated advisories cite a range of concerns, including terrorism, violent crime, and discriminatory laws, reflecting heightened concerns over safety and security in the affected countries. Ghana was the first to be listed on April 8 with a Level 2 advisory, which encourages travelers to exercise increased caution. The advisory cited violent crimes such as carjacking, street muggings, assaults, and rape, often occurring at night and in isolated areas. It also noted that sexual assaults are significantly underreported and remain a serious concern. While domestic violence is criminalized under Ghanaian law, enforcement remains weak, with police often failing to respond to reports. On April 16, the State Department issued a Level 4 advisory for Burkina Faso, citing an extreme risk of terrorist attacks. The warning stated that " terrorists may attack with little or no warning, using tactics such as improvised explosive devices, kidnappings for ransom, and attacks on public spaces." This comes amid strained diplomatic relations between Burkina Faso and the United States, following recent remarks by the U.S. AFRICOM commander accusing the military-led government of leveraging gold to consolidate power—an allegation the Burkinabè authorities have firmly denied. On April 21, Morocco was added to the advisory list with a Level 2 warning. Travelers are urged to exercise increased caution due to the persistent threat of terrorist activity. The advisory reflects concerns about the potential for attacks targeting public places frequented by foreigners. Less than 48 hours later, the State Department issued a Level 3 warning for Uganda. The advisory cites threats related to crime, terrorism, and discriminatory laws, particularly those targeting individuals based on sexual orientation. It also warns of potential security risks and unpredictable public demonstrations, especially in the lead-up to Uganda's general elections scheduled for January–February 2026. These advisories form part of the U.S. government's broader efforts to keep its citizens informed of international risks and encourage safer travel decisions. Understanding the U.S. Travel Advisory System The United States issues travel advisories through the Department of State to inform its citizens about potential safety and security risks when traveling abroad. These advisories are updated regularly and are based on a range of factors, including political instability, crime, health concerns, and the threat of terrorism or civil unrest. The system follows a four-tier scale: Level 1 ("Exercise Normal Precautions"), Level 2 ("Exercise Increased Caution"), Level 3 ("Reconsider Travel"), and the most extreme - Level 4 ("Do Not Travel"). This classification helps travelers make informed decisions and take necessary precautions before embarking on international trips.
Business Insider
21-04-2025
- Politics
- Business Insider
South Africa's EFF rejects U.S. claims on Burkina Faso gold
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), a South African leftist political party, have strongly rejected recent U.S. Senate allegations against Burkina Faso's President, Captain Ibrahim Traoré. The EFF strongly rejects recent U.S. Senate allegations against Burkina Faso's President, Captain Ibrahim Traoré General Langley, Commander of AFRICOM, alleged that Burkina Faso's mineral revenues were being used to sustain the ruling military regime The Burkinabè government strongly condemned General Langley's remarks, describing them as 'regrettable' and 'gravely inaccurate' The U.S. Senate during a hearing by a representative of the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), accused Traoré of diverting Burkina Faso's gold reserves for personal security rather than for the welfare of his people, an accusation the EFF has outrightly rejected. The EFF has denounced this claim as a blatant imperialist tactic aimed at destabilizing a sovereign African state that is asserting control over its natural resources. In a statement issued via its official X (formerly Twitter) account, the EFF stated: 'We condemn the West's continued interference in African nations' affairs and their attempts to control our resources. The EFF supports Captain Traoré's efforts to reclaim Burkina Faso's gold for the benefit of its people and to resist neo-colonial pressures.' The EFF described the U.S. allegations as part of a broader pattern of Western meddling in African governance, warning that such narratives are designed to delegitimize leaders who reject foreign domination. Reaffirming its support for Traoré, the party praised his commitment to redirecting national gold revenues toward security and development goals. The EFF emphasized that African countries must maintain the sovereign right to determine how their resources are utilized without external interference. It concluded by calling on other African nations to stand together in resisting neo-colonial efforts to dictate internal policies from abroad. US AFRICOM's statement on Burkina Faso During a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on April 3, 2025, General Michael Langley, Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), delivered the Command's 2025 posture statement, emphasizing the strategic importance of the African continent to U.S. national security. While responding to a question from Senator Roger Wicker about corruption and bribery linked to trade with China, General Langley alleged that Burkina Faso's mineral revenues, along with some financial flows from Chinese cooperation, were being used to sustain the ruling military regime, rather than benefiting the Burkinabè population. 'Absolutely, Chairman. I see this, and I don't mind calling it out, ' Langley said. ' Captain [Ibrahim] Traoré in Burkina Faso… their gold reserves are just in exchange to protect the junta regime.' Addressing broader concerns about Chinese and Russian influence in Africa, Langley stated that the Chinese Communist Party is seeking to use the continent as a platform to expand its global dominance, while Russia exploits instability and chaos to extend its reach. ' In order to protect our homeland and United States interests, we must deter these nations and their malign actors from their goals on the African continent,' he said Burkina Faso responds In a communiqué issued on April 16, the Burkinabè government strongly condemned the U.S general's remarks, describing them as 'regrettable' and 'gravely inaccurate.' The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed outrage over what it called unfounded allegations, warning that such statements not only distort the country's reality but also undermine the credibility of its leadership. It criticized General Langley for making sweeping claims without evidence and for failing to acknowledge Burkina Faso's evolving sovereign policy direction.
CAF
20-04-2025
- Sport
- CAF
TotalEnergies CAF U17 AFCON: The Best XI
They lit up the Moroccan pitches with their raw talent. After three weeks of intense competition, the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 ended with a triumph for the host nation, but also marked the emergence of young stars. Here is the Best XI of the 15th edition of the competition — a line-up that reflects the extraordinary reservoir of talent that African football possesses. Chouaib Bellaarouch (Morocco) GoalkeeperThe goalkeeper from the Mohammed VI Academy was one of the key players behind Morocco's title win. Rock-solid on his line, dominant in the air, and decisive in the penalty shootout during the final against Mali, he deservedly walks away with the tournament's Best Goalkeeper award. Moncef Zekri (Morocco) – Right-back Always accurate in his forward runs and precise with his crosses, Zekri constantly surged up and down his flank. His understanding with Ouazane during attacking phases often unsettled opposing defences. Issouf Dabo (Burkina Faso) – Centre-back Strong, disciplined, and always well positioned, Issa Dabo was a pillar of the Little Stallions' defensive stability. Thanks to his reading of the game and composure in duels, the Burkinabè defender emerged as a natural leader — a standout figure in a Burkina Faso team that narrowly missed the podium but held their heads high. Driss Aït Chiekh (Morocco) – Centre-back Another explosive force on the flank, Aït Chiekh embodied Moroccan energy. Solid in defence and incisive going forward, he often provided an extra option in attack. Vaboué Doumbia (Côte d'Ivoire) – Left-back The Ivorian defender was both commanding in challenges and clean in distribution. His composure in high-pressure moments contributed significantly to the Elephanteaux's strong run, finishing third after a dramatic win over Burkina Faso. Issa Tounkara (Mali) – Defensive midfielder The tireless anchor of Mali's midfield, Issa Tounkara shone with his ability to intercept passes, win the ball, and launch attacks cleanly. Always well positioned and valuable during transitions, the captain of the Aiglonnets was one of the unsung heroes of Mali's impressive campaign. Abdellah Ouazane (Morocco) – Attacking midfielder The playmaker. Elegant, composed, and blessed with a silky left foot, the Ajax Amsterdam player lit up the tournament with his talent. Named Player of the Tournament, he directed play with remarkable calmness and maturity. Seydou Dembélé (Mali) – Attacking midfielder The conductor of Mali's game, Dembélé stood out for his vision and intelligence in tight spaces — a creator in the purest tradition of African number 10s. Ilies Belmokhtar (Morocco) – Left winger Fast, skilful, and inspired, Belmokhtar was a nightmare for opposing full-backs. Direct and quick, he was a constant threat while also contributing to the team effort. Ashsaraf Tapsoba (Burkina Faso) – Right winger Joint top scorer of the tournament with 7 goals, Tapsoba was Burkina Faso's primary attacking weapon. Quick and clinical in the final touch, he showed he could make the difference at any moment. Alynho Haidara (Ivory Coast) – Striker Also joint top scorer with 7 goals, the lively Ivorian striker made his mark with sharp runs and cool finishing. His equaliser in the third-place play-off showed great strength and character.
