Month: July 2026

Strengthening Ties: Senegal and France Forge a New Chapter in Bilateral Relations On the occasion of France’s National Day, Senegal’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Me Moussa Sarr, delivered a keynote address underscoring the evolving dynamics of Dakar-Paris relations. He described the partnership as "deep, historic, and multidimensional," rooted in shared values and strengthened by decades of collaboration in human, cultural, economic, and academic spheres. Yet, Sarr emphasized that this relationship is now entering a transformative phase, marked by a renewed dialogue aimed at aligning cooperation with the aspirations of both nations and the shifting realities of the African continent and global landscape. The dialogue, he noted, is built on principles of mutual respect, transparency, and...

The sacred iboga shrub, long revered in Gabonese traditions, is on the cusp of a transformative industrial leap. As the opioid crisis continues to ravage healthcare systems in the United States, this native plant has captured unprecedented global attention for its potential in addiction therapy. Recognizing this surge in demand, Libreville is stepping up efforts to reclaim control of its natural resource. By Harouna Ousmane — Reporter

On Wednesday, July 15, 2026, Ousmane Sonko, the Senegalese opposition leader and head of the Pastef party, marks his 52nd birthday. Born on July 15, 1974, the former Prime Minister and current President of the National Assembly received an outpouring of tributes from party officials, allies, and public figures who praised his political dedication and leadership. Among the most notable messages was that from Waly Diouf Bodian, Director General of the Dakar Port Authority, who expressed unwavering loyalty. His tribute read: « Happy birthday to my steadfast leader, Ousmane Sonko. I wish you another fifty years of July 15ths filled with health, happiness, and divine protection. You know I will always stand by you, for our nation and the great people who deserve every sacrifice. It is the lega...

With the historic success of its initial restitution efforts firmly behind, Bénin advances toward a new milestone. On July 14, 2026, the government in Cotonou formally established a National Scientific Committee to oversee the return of 35 culturally significant artifacts and colonial-era archives currently held in France. Far from being a symbolic gesture, this initiative is rooted in a deliberate strategy: transforming restored heritage into the driving force of a thriving local tourism and cultural economy, fueled by widespread public engagement. Strengthening cultural sovereignty through strategic restitution Bénin is not resting on past achievements. As a leader in cultural restitution across Sub-Saharan Africa, the nation is now launching the second phase of its cultural diplomacy. ...