Latest news with #Traoré
USA Today
a day ago
- Sport
- USA Today
French guard Nolan Traoré posts intriguing measurements at draft combine
French guard Nolan Traoré posts intriguing measurements at draft combine Projected first-round pick Nolan Traoré completed the required testing on Wednesday to become eligible for selection in the 2025 NBA draft in Treviso, Italy. Traoré was named the Champions League Best Young Player after averaging 12.2 points, 4.7 assists and 1.9 rebounds in 44 games with Saint-Quentin in France. He registered seven 20-point games, including a 25-point effort on May 9. The Frenchman participated in the international combine after being excused from the main event last month due to his obligation to Saint-Quentin. He reportedly measured with a 6-foot, 8-inch wingspan, according to Jonathan Wasserman of Bleacher Report. Traoré put himself on the radar after a great offseason last year, representing France in the Nike Hoop Summit and FIBA U18 EuroBasket. He averaged 14 points, 9.3 assists and 3.6 rebounds on 42.9% shooting from 3-point range as France finished fifth in Finland. The 19-year-old is considered a possible lottery pick, given his potential to be an elite playmaker at the next level. He plays with excellent court vision, often flourishing by running offenses against high-level competition due to his instincts and passing ability. Traoré shined with Saint-Quentin as the season progressed, showing an increased comfort level shooting the ball and finishing at the rim. He'll have the opportunity to work out with teams following the combine, with three weeks to go until the draft.
Miami Herald
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Miami Herald
The Young Putin Ally Winning Hearts Across Africa: Who Is Ibrahim Traoré?
At 34, Ibrahim Traoré seized global attention by toppling Burkina Faso's junta-the second coup in a year-vowing to reclaim sovereignty and reject colonial influence. Days later, he was sworn in as president, becoming Africa's youngest leader. His rise owes as much to military action as to a viral online presence, with AI tributes and fiery speeches casting him as a pan-African icon. In a region plagued by foreign interference and democratic decline, Traoré's message resonates with disillusioned youth. Despite mounting violence and authoritarianism, many view him as a bold challenger to Western dominance they blame for their hardships. Newsweek has reached out to the Burkina Faso foreign ministry for comment. Traoré's rise reflects a broader trend in West Africa, where military coups have become more frequent amid widespread dissatisfaction with democratic governance and foreign influence. His emphasis on economic self-reliance and pan-African unity resonates with many who feel marginalized by global power structures. However, his authoritarian tendencies raise concerns about the future of democracy and human rights in the region. Born in Bondokuy, western Burkina Faso, Ibrahim Traoré studied geology at the University of Ouagadougou before joining the army in 2010. He gained frontline experience fighting jihadist groups in the country's north and later served in the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Mali. By 2020, Traoré had risen to captain and led an artillery unit stationed in Kaya. Growing frustrated with the ruling junta's inability to stem insurgent violence, he spearheaded a coup against interim president Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba. In October 2022, Traoré was sworn in as interim president, pledging to restore security and national sovereignty. Since taking office, Traoré has championed economic self-reliance-establishing a state-owned mining firm to curb foreign control, distributing farm machinery, and launching infrastructure projects like rural roads and a new airport. His government rejected IMF and World Bank loans, cleared domestic debt, raised civil servant wages by 50 percent, and expelled French troops in 2023, signaling a break from former colonial ties. Yet despite these efforts, violence surges. More than 60 percent of Burkina Faso remains outside state control, over 2 million people are displaced, and security forces face serious abuse allegations, prompting calls for international scrutiny. Traoré has also redirected Burkina Faso's foreign policy. In 2023, French troops were expelled, ending Operation Sabre and signaling a break from France's longstanding military presence. The reopening of Russia's embassy and the formation of the Alliance of Sahel States alongside Mali and Niger highlight a strategic pivot toward Moscow. In May, Traoré traveled to Moscow to take part in the 80th anniversary Victory Day celebrations, meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin and underscoring the deepening ties between the two countries. Traoré's leadership has also been marked by a growing cult of personality, amplified by social media and AI-generated tributes. This digital amplification fuels a narrative that positions Traoré as a symbol of resistance against neocolonial influence, resonating especially with younger Africans. His image is spread widely through viral videos, memes, and carefully crafted content that elevate him beyond Burkina Faso's borders. One example occurred in early 2024, when a deepfake video circulated on platforms like TikTok and WhatsApp, showing Traoré delivering a rousing speech in multiple languages, calling for African unity and independence. Though the video was AI-generated and not authentic, it went viral among youth across West Africa, sparking both admiration and debate. Burkina Faso President Ibrahim Traoré: "A slave who cannot assume his own revolt does not deserve to be pitied. We do not feel sorry for ourselves, we do not ask anyone to feel sorry for us." Chidi Odinkalu, Africa analyst and professor at Tufts University: "Traoré articulates a revolutionary message that is appealing to a young population frustrated by the thievery of what passes for democracy in their own countries." Babacar Ndiaye, a senior fellow at the Senegal-based Timbuktu Institute for Peace Studies: "In Africa, there is deep frustration with the traditional leadership, so there is polarized anger towards a scapegoat that is the west." As Burkina Faso navigates its complex political and security landscape, the international community watches closely, weighing the implications of Traoré's leadership for the region's future stability and democratic governance. This article includes reporting from the Associated Press Related Articles 10 World Conflicts Trump Will Take On in 2025Group Linked to Al-Qaeda Kills at Least 100 in West AfricaFrance's Defeat in Africa Is A Warning Sign to the USU.S. Forces Under 'Protection Measures' As African Troops Deploy for Niger 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
Newsweek
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Newsweek
The Young Putin Ally Winning Hearts Across Africa: Who Is Ibrahim Traoré?
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. At 34, Ibrahim Traoré seized global attention by toppling Burkina Faso's junta—the second coup in a year—vowing to reclaim sovereignty and reject colonial influence. Days later, he was sworn in as president, becoming Africa's youngest leader. His rise owes as much to military action as to a viral online presence, with AI tributes and fiery speeches casting him as a pan-African icon. In a region plagued by foreign interference and democratic decline, Traoré's message resonates with disillusioned youth. Despite mounting violence and authoritarianism, many view him as a bold challenger to Western dominance they blame for their hardships. Newsweek has reached out to the Burkina Faso foreign ministry for comment. Why It Matters Traoré's rise reflects a broader trend in West Africa, where military coups have become more frequent amid widespread dissatisfaction with democratic governance and foreign influence. His emphasis on economic self-reliance and pan-African unity resonates with many who feel marginalized by global power structures. However, his authoritarian tendencies raise concerns about the future of democracy and human rights in the region. President of Burkina Faso Ibrahim Traoré visits the Mendeleev Russian University of Chemical Technology in Moscow, Russia, May 9, 2025. President of Burkina Faso Ibrahim Traoré visits the Mendeleev Russian University of Chemical Technology in Moscow, Russia, May 9, 2025. Ilya Pitalev/AP Photo What to Know Born in Bondokuy, western Burkina Faso, Ibrahim Traoré studied geology at the University of Ouagadougou before joining the army in 2010. He gained frontline experience fighting jihadist groups in the country's north and later served in the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Mali. By 2020, Traoré had risen to captain and led an artillery unit stationed in Kaya. Growing frustrated with the ruling junta's inability to stem insurgent violence, he spearheaded a coup against interim president Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba. In October 2022, Traoré was sworn in as interim president, pledging to restore security and national sovereignty. Economic Self-Reliance Since taking office, Traoré has championed economic self-reliance—establishing a state-owned mining firm to curb foreign control, distributing farm machinery, and launching infrastructure projects like rural roads and a new airport. His government rejected IMF and World Bank loans, cleared domestic debt, raised civil servant wages by 50 percent, and expelled French troops in 2023, signaling a break from former colonial ties. Yet despite these efforts, violence surges. More than 60 percent of Burkina Faso remains outside state control, over 2 million people are displaced, and security forces face serious abuse allegations, prompting calls for international scrutiny. Burkina Faso President Ibrahim Traore, left, and Russian President Vladimir Putin shake hands during their meeting before the Victory Day military parade in Moscow, Russia, Friday, May 9, 2025, during celebrations of the 80th anniversary... Burkina Faso President Ibrahim Traore, left, and Russian President Vladimir Putin shake hands during their meeting before the Victory Day military parade in Moscow, Russia, Friday, May 9, 2025, during celebrations of the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany during the World War II. More Alexei Nikolsky/AP Photo Ties to Russia Traoré has also redirected Burkina Faso's foreign policy. In 2023, French troops were expelled, ending Operation Sabre and signaling a break from France's longstanding military presence. The reopening of Russia's embassy and the formation of the Alliance of Sahel States alongside Mali and Niger highlight a strategic pivot toward Moscow. In May, Traoré traveled to Moscow to take part in the 80th anniversary Victory Day celebrations, meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin and underscoring the deepening ties between the two countries. Social Media Star Traoré's leadership has also been marked by a growing cult of personality, amplified by social media and AI-generated tributes. This digital amplification fuels a narrative that positions Traoré as a symbol of resistance against neocolonial influence, resonating especially with younger Africans. His image is spread widely through viral videos, memes, and carefully crafted content that elevate him beyond Burkina Faso's borders. One example occurred in early 2024, when a deepfake video circulated on platforms like TikTok and WhatsApp, showing Traoré delivering a rousing speech in multiple languages, calling for African unity and independence. Though the video was AI-generated and not authentic, it went viral among youth across West Africa, sparking both admiration and debate. Supporters of Burkina Faso's strongman Captain Ibrahim Traore hold placards during a rally in support of Traore at Place de la Nation Ouagadougou on April 30, 2025. Several thousand people rallied in Ouagadougou on April... Supporters of Burkina Faso's strongman Captain Ibrahim Traore hold placards during a rally in support of Traore at Place de la Nation Ouagadougou on April 30, 2025. Several thousand people rallied in Ouagadougou on April 30, 2025 in support of Burkina Faso's ruling junta, days after the military authorities claimed to have foiled a "major plot" to stage a coup. More Getty Images What People Are Saying Burkina Faso President Ibrahim Traoré: "A slave who cannot assume his own revolt does not deserve to be pitied. We do not feel sorry for ourselves, we do not ask anyone to feel sorry for us." Chidi Odinkalu, Africa analyst and professor at Tufts University: "Traoré articulates a revolutionary message that is appealing to a young population frustrated by the thievery of what passes for democracy in their own countries." Babacar Ndiaye, a senior fellow at the Senegal-based Timbuktu Institute for Peace Studies: "In Africa, there is deep frustration with the traditional leadership, so there is polarized anger towards a scapegoat that is the west." What Happens Next As Burkina Faso navigates its complex political and security landscape, the international community watches closely, weighing the implications of Traoré's leadership for the region's future stability and democratic governance. Capitaine Ibrahim Traore, Burkina Faso's new president, attends the ceremony for the 35th anniversary of Thomas Sankaras assassination, in Ouagadougou, on October 15, 2022. - Captain Ibrahim Traore, who took power a fortnight ago in... Capitaine Ibrahim Traore, Burkina Faso's new president, attends the ceremony for the 35th anniversary of Thomas Sankaras assassination, in Ouagadougou, on October 15, 2022. - Captain Ibrahim Traore, who took power a fortnight ago in a coup in Burkina Faso, attended a ceremony on October 15, 2022 to mark the 35th anniversary of the assassination of revolutionary president Thomas Sankara, an AFP reporter noted. More OlympiaThis article includes reporting from the Associated Press
Daily Maverick
16-05-2025
- Politics
- Daily Maverick
Ibrahim Traoré: The TikTok superstar and his quest to replace Thomas Sankara's legacy
Burkinabe leader Ibrahim Traoré is acting like a rock star. It's not entirely his fault. He's receiving a lot of help from dozens of social media users, especially TikTokkers, who are desperate to anoint him as the best thing to come out of Burkina Faso since Thomas Sankara. Traore must be enjoying it, because even though he is pretending, he knows he's not Sankara. He is an opportunist, happy to capitalise on the current frustration in his country and the Sahel for his benefit. A recent report by The Africa Report summarised Traoré's fictional character: 'In dozens of viral TikTok edits, Traore leads imaginary armies, topples Western empires and is hailed as the 'new Thomas Sankara'. The captions, bold and uncompromising, include 'Africa's Messiah!' 'The People's Captain!' and 'France Must Fall'.' Traoréphytes even invent videos of Rihanna and R Kelly (imprisoned since 2021) serenading the Burkinabe leader with hit songs! Fairytale If he were an elected president, Traoré would have served three years of his first term. When he overthrew the government of then president Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba in September 2022 due to the rise in Islamic insurgency and announced himself as head of the new Patriotic Movement for Safeguard and Restoration (PMSR), he promised to hand power back to civilians in two years — that was in 2024. He hasn't said a word about any possible new date since, and if you have seen him recently, you would know why. Apart from the adulation he has enjoyed as a social media fairytale, and dressing the part in stylish fatigues and matching neck scarves, berets, and boots, he has also talked the part. He rallied support by giving speeches — not as many or as eloquently as he has been credited with — against Western imperialism and colonialism, vowing to create conditions at home to stem youth migration and tackle insurgency. Traore has portrayed himself as the new face of the African Renaissance. But talk is cheap. Traoré and the other delinquents He has been in good company. The turmoil in West and Central Africa, which began in Chad, Mali, and Guinea, and later spread to Niger, has disrupted security and trade in the subregion, rupturing the 49-year-old Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas). Burkina Faso experienced two coups in a single year. After breaking out of Ecowas, Traoré and his fellow delinquents in the Sahel have pursued a singular mission of cutting off the noses of their Sahelian francophone ties to spite the faces of French business and political interests. To be fair, it's a moment of reckoning for decades of brazen French insensitivity, compounded by President Emmanuel Macron's lack of charity when he described the relationship between France and Francophone West Africa as 'part of a civilising obligation'. Trouble speaking French Which was self-interested nonsense. France has accumulated a notoriously poor record on the continent that it can hardly be proud of. In Niger, for example, Tom Burgis writes in his book The Looting Machine that French state-owned atomic energy group Areva's profit from uranium is twice Niger's GDP. The shameful French footprint is the same in Burkina Faso and throughout the region. Fourteen Francophone countries, including the troubled ones — Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali, Niger and Chad — hold 50% of their reserves in the French Treasury. This arrangement has been widely criticised, but if the work 'shame' is in the French dictionary, it doesn't exist in Macron's version. It is this background of despair and frustration, especially among the continent's youth, that has fostered fairytale messiahs like Traoré, who have managed to replace French hegemony with a mix of fussy state control and Russian suzerainty, with the Chinese just around the corner. If it's not Sankara… Traoré is not Sankara, a fact that may be lost on Burkina Faso's predominantly young population, as well as millennials and Gen Z across the continent, whose forlorn search for role models tempts them to canonise an impostor. Of course, both are soldiers, similar in age and rank and usurpers of constitutional rule. But that's where the similarity ends. Like the demagogues before him, Traoré and significant sections of the military and political elite from Maurice Yaméogo to Blaise Compaoré have been complicit in the misery of their citizens, feeding them a diet of pseudo-ideological jingoism and West bashing, but offering no genuine alternative. Africa — anglophone, francophone, or lusophone — shares a similar heritage of exploitation; a few of its people, especially the political elite after independence, collaborated with the colonialists to compound the problem. Hard to beat Where Traoré is trading French hegemony for Russian control, for example, Sankara offered something different. In Burkina Faso: A History of Power, Protest and Revolution, Ernest Harsch said of Sankara: 'In a conscious effort at nation building, the revolutionary government also promoted a new national identity… that revolutionary project succeeded in altering the contours of the state and social and political life.' Whereas Sankara attempted to forge a proudly African identity, deepening regional integration among Ecowas countries, Traoré and his cohorts have, by exiting, put at risk the estimated $596.42-billion in trade within the community, excluding informal trade among citizens, which constitutes 30% of the transactions, not to mention the impact on regional collaboration on security. Sankara pursued radical economic self-sufficiency, agrarian reform, and social justice by outlawing female genital mutilation and promoting women's rights. He rejected foreign aid, regardless of its source, even if it came without strings attached, something that Traoré would be happy to overlook if it came from Russia. What matters I get it. With jihadists controlling about 40% of the country's territory (it's the most terrorised country in the world), and with climate shocks compounding its misery, the challenges are as different as the times. That is why what Traoré needs now is not clout chasing or AI propaganda by Russian-backed Wagner, but a sober-minded commitment to turn around the fortunes of his country, one step at a time. For three years, Traoré's stock has risen amid algorithmic populism expressed in languages he neither understands nor speaks, with minimal institutional reforms, if any, and no prospects or commitment to return the country to civilian rule. 'His rhetoric,' The Africa Report said, 'still falls short of real, measurable improvements in security and civic freedoms. There's a gap between his message and the reality on the ground, something that will ultimately test his legitimacy and legacy.'
Yahoo
07-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Protests grow in Mali as opposition leader faces trial over junta criticism
Demonstrators take to the streets of Bamako, Mali, to protest the dissolution of political parties on 3 May 2025. A prominent opposition leader in Mali will stand trial next month for criticising the country's military rulers, as tensions escalate over a plan to dissolve political parties and delay a return to civilian rule. The arrest of Mamadou Traoré, a vocal critic of the junta, comes amid protests in Bamako and growing calls for democratic elections. Traoré, known as 'the King', leads the Alternatives for Mali party and is part of the opposition coalition Jigiya Koura. He was arrested on 24 April and transferred to Dioïla prison, 160km from the capital. His trial is set for 12 June. Traoré is charged with 'undermining the credit of the state' and 'spreading knowingly false news likely to disturb public order'. ADVERTISEMENT Advertisement The charges stem from an interview posted online on 22 April in which Traoré accused members of the National Transition Council – appointed by the junta – of enriching themselves at public expense. He claimed they were receiving 'billions' in salaries intended for elected MPs, while working 'for their personal interest and not for the homeland'. Traoré also questioned the legitimacy of the 2023 constitutional referendum and condemned the council's silence over threats to ban political parties. 'Not keeping your word is an insult to the honour of Malians,' he said during the interview. Mali forum backs five-year presidency for junta leader Assimi Goïta Widening crackdown Police forced them to leave, citing risks of confrontation with junta supporters. Read more on RFI English Read also: West African group Ecowas turns 50 amid struggle to stay united Algeria shuts down airspace and recalls envoys amid Mali drone row Wagner mercenaries and Mali army accused of killing civilians near Gao
