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Minister Mantashe assures SA that fuel supply remains stable

Source: Government of South Africa

Minister Mantashe assures SA that fuel supply remains stable

Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Gwede Mantashe has called on South Africans not to panic as the South African fuel supply remains stable.

The Minister was answering questions in Parliament on Wednesday.

Fuel supply security has come under scrutiny following heightened tensions in Iran which led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz – causing a disruption in the flow of global oil and liquified natural gas supplies.

“Despite the heightened geopolitical risk, including disruptions in the Middle East shipping routes, the Republic’s current petroleum supply security arrangement remains robust. The latest monitoring report confirms the overall supply is stable across petroleum products, with imports arriving as planned through the mid-April 2026.

“Inland supply is supported by stable refining. Sasol, SAPREF [South African Petroleum Refineries] and the coal to liquid refinery in Secunda is ensuring that there is a reliable supply of energy.

“The reason why we are confident is that our department meets the petroleum producers – all of them – twice a week to monitor the situation. So, when we articulate a position, it’s not only for the state-owned entities, but we are also talking for everybody,” Mantashe said.

The Minister added that the Cape Town refinery’s maintenance shutdown ends at the end of April, which is expected to “add to the reliability of the supply in the country”.

Turning to Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG), Mantashe assured that supply on this front has also remained stable.

“Our crude oil is sourced from Africa and the Atlantic basin – not in the Middle East. So, every arrangement that we do is supplementing what we normally source from the Middle East. Our refining capacity is giving us 40% security in energy supply. But forward imports are covering for longer periods as we look for diversification.

“Even the Strait of Hormuz allows cargo that comes to South Africa without interruption. That means, we are having the chance of having stable supply over a long period. There should be no panic in society,” he explained.

Mantashe added that supply is secured “until the end of April, including jet fuel”.

“Jet fuel…has been announced as short. It is not short. The price has gone up dramatically, almost double. But there is no shortage of supply of jet fuel,” the Minister said.

He revealed that South Africa has at least 8 million barrels of crude oil in its strategic fuel stock.

“That is not used. It will be used when it’s a real crisis. Our supply of energy is divided into two. [Some] 60% is imported processed products and 40% is processed by our own refineries and Sasol,” Mantashe said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Minister of State for International Cooperation Welcomes HRC Resolution on Implications of Iranian Attacks

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, March 25, 2026

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad welcomed the Human Rights Council’s (HRC) adoption of the resolution submitted on behalf of the Gulf Cooperation Council states and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, regarding the human rights implications resulting from the unjustified Iranian attacks on these countries, and considered the resolution an important step that embodies international consensus on rejecting the targeting of civilians and civilian objects.

Her Excellency explained, in a statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA), that this resolution comes as a continuation of the joint Gulf efforts that were crowned by the adoption of Security Council Resolution No. 2817 (2026), noting that the resolution received the consensus of the Council and was adopted by consensus, while more than 105 countries participated in its adoption, which reflects wide international solidarity with the peoples of the GCC states and Jordan, during the HRC emergency session that was held at the request of the states that submitted the draft resolution.

She added that the resolution includes essential texts in its content, as it condemns in the strongest terms the Iranian military attacks that targeted civilians and civilian infrastructure and led to casualties among innocent people, and decides that these acts constitute grave violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law.

Her Excellency pointed out that the resolution reaffirms strong support for the regional safety of the GCC states and Jordan and for their sovereignty and political independence, and also expresses solidarity with these countries and their peoples, and calls on the High Commissioner for Human Rights to provide an oral briefing to the Council on the repercussions of these attacks on human rights.

Her Excellency noted the pride of the State of Qatar, as an HRC member for the period 2025–2027, in actively participating in this collective diplomatic effort, renewing the State of Qatar’s strong condemnation of the unjustified Iranian attacks, and affirming its full right to defend its sovereignty and protect its security and national interests in accordance with Article (51) of the Charter of the United Nations.

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Six Arab States Renew Condemnation of Direct, Proxy Iranian Attacks in the Region

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | March 25, 2026

The State of Qatar, the State of Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan renew their condemnation in the strongest terms of the blatant Iranian attacks, which constitute a flagrant violation of their sovereignty, territorial integrity, international law, international humanitarian law, and the Charter of the United Nations, whether carried out directly or through their proxies and armed factions they support in the region.

We stress, in particular, the attacks carried out by armed factions loyal to Iran from the Republic of Iraq against a number of countries in the region, as well as their facilities and infrastructure. These acts are a breach of international laws and conventions and a blatant violation of United Nations Security Council Resolution No. 2817 (2026), which explicitly demands that Iran immediately and unconditionally cease any attacks or threats against neighboring states, including through the use of proxies.

While we value our fraternal relations with the Republic of Iraq, we call on the Iraqi government to take the necessary measures to immediately halt the attacks launched by factions, militias, and armed groups from Iraqi territory toward neighboring countries, in order to preserve brotherly relations and avoid further escalation.

We also reaffirm our full and inherent right to self-defense against these criminal attacks in accordance with Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations, which guarantees the right of states to self-defense, individually and collectively, in the event of aggression, and our right to take all necessary measures to safeguard our sovereignty, security, and stability.

We further condemn the destabilizing acts and activities targeting the security and stability of the region’s countries, which are planned by sleeper cells loyal to Iran and terrorist organizations linked to Hezbollah, and praise our brave armed forces for confronting these attacks, as well as the vigilance of our security agencies, which serve as a strong shield and a watchful eye in preserving the safety of our nations and lives, and their sincere and dedicated efforts in apprehending these agent cells and terrorist organizations and exposing their malicious plots.

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Coca-Cola system aims to strengthen water security in Tanzania with USD 1.94 million investment

Source: APO

The Coca-Cola system (https://CCBAGroup.com/)  in Tanzania is investing USD 1.94 million to help restore the Ruvu Basin, a vital water source serving Dar es Salaam, the country’s commercial capital of approximately 9 million (https://apo-opa.co/40TfNFO) people, and a lifeline for communities, farms, and businesses across eastern Tanzania.

The initiative focuses on improving water replenishment through nature-based solutions, restoring catchment areas, and supporting more sustainable water management in the Ngerengere catchment of the Ruvu sub-basin. It also aims to strengthen capacity for watershed management, help restore degraded catchment areas and promote water stewardship.

Led by the Global Water Challenge (GWC) and implemented by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), in partnership with the Wami-Ruvu Basin Water Board (WRBWB), the project aims to deliver on-the-ground impact, including tree planting and the uptake of more climate resilient livelihood practices, benefiting at least 2,000 farmers.

This work forms part of the Coca-Cola system’s Africa Water Stewardship Initiative, launched in 2024. The initiative represents a nearly USD 25 million investment to help address critical water-related challenges in local communities in 20 African countries by 2030.

“The world is experiencing increased water insecurity, which is evident through water scarcity, with demands for safe, usable water exceeding supply in certain areas and scarcity challenges forecast to increase in the future. The Coca-Cola system intends to continue focusing on promoting water stewardship, increasing water use efficiency, and treating and returning safe water to communities,” said Alfred Olajide, Vice President, Franchise Operations, East and Central Africa at Coca-Cola.

David Chait, Managing Director of Coca-Cola Kwanza added: “As part of the Coca-Cola Beverages Africa group, we have a responsibility to assist those who face water scarcity and to help protect local water resources where we operate, especially in places with the biggest challenges. The Coca-Cola system’s Africa Water Stewardship Initiative aims to help protect and enhance the health of important watersheds and to improve access to water and sanitation services in local communities.”

Charles Oluchina, Country Representative, IUCN Tanzania, said: “We are proud to be the implementing partner, alongside WRBWB, for this project. This initiative is aimed at helping to protect and restore the Ruvu sub-basin focusing on Ngerengere catchment through nature-based solutions and improving water security and livelihoods for communities.”

“Recognising that partnerships are critical to support this work, Coca-Cola and its authorised bottlers are collaborating with governments, businesses, and civil society organisations to design and implement strategic interventions for a better shared future,” concluded Olajide.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa.

Issued by:
Salum Nassor,
Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability Director
Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, Tanzania
Tel: +25 578 933 3843
Email: snassor@ccbagroup.co.tz

Paul Victor Oloo
Senior Manager, Communications
Coca-Cola East and Central Africa Franchise
Tel: +254 740 137 268
Email: poloo@coca-cola.com

Follow CCBA on:
LinkedIn:  https://apo-opa.co/4tbPxCL

Follow The Coca-Cola Company on:
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/40XeSEj
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4bNsIOq
LinkedIn.: https://apo-opa.co/41xTCoJ

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Twitter: http://apo-opa.co/4lRkAkM 
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About CCBA:
CCBA is the eighth largest Coca-Cola authorised bottler in the world by revenue, and the largest on the continent. It accounts for over 40% of all Coca-Cola ready-to-drink beverages sold in Africa by volume. With over 13,000 employees in Africa, CCBA group services more than 840,000 customers with a host of international and local brands. CCBA group operates in 14 countries: South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi and the islands of Comoros and Mayotte.

Learn more at https://CCBAGroup.com

About The Coca-Cola Company:
The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company’s purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. We sell multiple billion-dollar brands across several beverage categories worldwide. Our portfolio of sparkling soft drink brands includes Coca-Cola, Sprite and Fanta. Our water, sports, coffee and tea brands include Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Fuze Tea, Gold Peak and Ayataka. Our juice, value-added dairy and plant-based beverage brands include Minute Maid, Simply, innocent, Del Valle, fairlife and AdeS. We’re constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain. Together with our bottling partners, we employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide.

Learn more at www.Coca-ColaCompany.com

About International Union for Conservation of Nature:
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is a global authority on the status of the natural world and the measures needed to safeguard it. Created in 1948, IUCN has evolved into the world’s largest and most diverse environmental network. Our Members include expert and influential government, non-government and Indigenous Peoples’ Organisations from over 160 countries, and our Commissions draw upon more than 17,000 experts worldwide. Through its work, IUCN helps societies conserve nature and ensure that natural resources are used sustainably and equitably. In Tanzania, IUCN is dedicated to preserving and restoring the natural environment by aligning our efforts with the country’s national development strategies and environmental priorities. Our work is focused on addressing critical challenges such as rapid land use changes, biodiversity loss and the impacts of climate change, ensuring sustainable management of natural resources for current and future generations. 

Learn more at: http://apo-opa.co/4c1ZHjr

About Global Water Challenge:
Global Water Challenge (GWC) is a sector leader in mobilizing clean water access, advancing water security and community empowerment in high need regions around the world. Since 2005, GWC has positively impacted more than 3 million people across Africa, the Americas and Asia with improved WASH delivery while providing critical tools, data and best practices to reach millions more. With our 100+ multi-sector partners, we engage for action – catalyzing financial resources and driving innovative programming for sustainable, local solutions.

For more information, please visit https://GlobalWaterChallenge.org

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Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Receives Call from Malaysia PM

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, March 25, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received a phone call on Wednesday from HE Prime Minister of Malaysia Dr Anwar Ibrahim to discuss latest regional developments.

The two sides took stock of the ongoing military escalation in the region and its grave repercussions for regional and international stability, as well as ways to resolve disputes through peaceful means.

During the call, HE Sheikh Mohammed stressed the importance of strengthening coordination and intensifying joint efforts to achieve an immediate halt to any escalatory actions.

His Excellency also emphasized the need to return to dialogue and to prioritize reason and wisdom in order to contain the crisis, ensuring global energy security, freedom of navigation, environmental safety, and the overall stability of the region. 

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Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Meets Turkish Ambassador

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | March 25, 2026

HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi met on Wednesday with HE Ambassador of the Republic of Turkiye to the State of Qatar Dr. Mehmet Mustafa Goksu.
During the meeting, they discussed cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and enhance them, as well as the latest developments in the region.

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Trinasolar Presents Smart Energy Solutions and Project Milestones at Solar & Storage Live Africa

Source: APO – Report:

Trinasolar (www.Trinasolar.com), a global leader in smart PV and energy storage solutions, today announced its participation in Solar & Storage Live Africa at Booth H5-D34, presenting its integrated smart energy solutions designed to support the reliable deployment of solar and storage projects across Africa’s rapidly evolving energy landscape.

At the event, Trinasolar is showcasing a range of advanced technologies supporting the next phase of solar deployment, including the Vertex N 750W module, Elementa 3 energy storage system, TrinaTracker Vanguard 1P tracking system, and Trinabot automation technologies. Together, these solutions help developers, EPCs, and energy providers optimize project performance, improve system reliability, and deliver cost-effective renewable energy across utility-scale, commercial and industrial (C&I), and hybrid solar-plus-storage projects.

Trinasolar’s participation in the event comes at a time when the company continues to strengthen its leadership position in South Africa’s solar market, where it currently holds the #1 market share position. One of the milestones reflecting this momentum is the successful delivery of the 510MW Khauta Solar Project, one of the largest solar installations in South Africa. Located in Welkom in the Free State Province, the project was delivered in collaboration with WBHO, one of the country’s largest construction and EPC companies.

The project consists of two contracts completed simultaneously — Khauta South (352.5MW) and Khauta West (157.8MW) — reflecting the scale and pace of solar deployment in the country’s rapidly evolving energy landscape. Trinasolar supplied high-performance solar modules for the project and provided extensive commercial, technical, logistics and aftersales support throughout the implementation phase.

In addition to the Khauta milestone, Trinasolar continues to expand its collaboration with leading developers in South Africa, including a strategic partnership with Mulilo, one of the country’s prominent renewable energy companies. As part of this collaboration, Trinasolar has signed a contract for the 220MW Orkney Solar Project, further strengthening its presence in the utility-scale solar segment and supporting the continued growth of large-scale renewable energy projects in the country.

Beyond these milestones, Trinasolar continues to expand its presence in South Africa through a growing portfolio of utility-scale solar projects and strategic partnerships with leading developers. The company’s current and upcoming projects represent a pipeline exceeding 2 GW of solar capacity, underscoring Trinasolar’s role in meeting the country’s growing demand for renewable energy and strengthening South Africa’s evolving energy mix.

“South Africa is entering a defining phase of solar growth, driven by rising electricity demand, expanding energy wheeling frameworks, and the rapid scale-up of commercial and industrial projects. Trinasolar is proud to be at the centre of this transition — bringing together high-performance solar technologies, advanced storage solutions, and a proven track record of large-scale project delivery to help our customers build a more resilient and cost-competitive energy future.” said Zaheer Khan, Regional Director – South Africa at Trinasolar MEA.

In addition to its technology contributions, Trinasolar has also supported its project partners and surrounding communities through a range of initiatives. These include Wellness Day contributions, as well as community outreach efforts such as the sponsorship of soccer and netball uniforms for local programs. These initiatives reflect Trinasolar’s commitment to responsible project development and its role in creating a positive impact beyond energy delivery.

As Africa’s energy transition accelerates, Trinasolar remains committed to being a long-term partner of choice for developers, EPCs, and energy providers across the continent, delivering the technology, expertise, and project execution capability needed to drive the next wave of renewable energy growth.”

– on behalf of Trinasolar.

For media inquiries please contact:
Mariam Agag – PR Manager, Trinasolar MEA
Email: mariam.agag@trinasolar.com

Lojayne Mohsen – Senior Consultant, Fekra Communications
Email: lojayne.mohsen@fekracomms.com

About Trinasolar (688599. SH):
Founded in 1997, Trinasolar Co Ltd (stock symbol: Trinasolar; stock code: 688599) is engaged mainly in PV products, PV systems and smart energy. PV products include R&D, production and sales of PV modules. PV systems consist of power stations and system products. Smart energy comprises mainly PV power generation and operations and maintenance, smart solutions for energy storage, smart microgrid, and development and sales of multi-energy systems. We are committed to leading the way in smart PV and energy storage solutions and facilitating the transformation of new power systems for a net-zero future.

On June 10, 2020, Trinasolar was listed on the Science and Technology Innovation Board (STAR Market) of the Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE). It was the first PV and energy storage company to go public on the STAR Market providing PV products and systems, as well as smart energy. For more information, please visit www.Trinasolar.com.

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Senior police officials in court with alleged crime boss, Matlala

Source: Government of South Africa

Senior police officials in court with alleged crime boss, Matlala

Some 12 senior police officers as well as alleged underground boss, Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, have appeared in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on charges of corruption, fraud and the Contravention of the PFMA.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the charges stem from the alleged irregular awarding of a tender to Matlala’s company, Medicare 24.

“Treasury regulations were violated and Matlala and Medicare24 were favoured by SAPS BEC members which will become apparent from the evidence later in the process.

“Medicare24 did not have the facilities/equipment and/or staff to make good on the tender, which was budgeted for approximately R360 million, but owing to the collusion between the SAPS officials and Medicare 24, the lowest bid, which was approximately R228 million, which bid came from Matlala, was awarded this contract, nonetheless.

“Matlala received a payment of just over R50 million before the unlawful contract was cancelled by SAPS. Some of the accused also benefitted financially from this contract through money received from Matlala to which they were not entitled to,” the NPA said. 

The accused in the matter are:

  • Matlala together with James Murray (service provider)
  • Captain Brian Neville
  • Brigadier Rachel Matjeng
  • Brigadier Alpheus Thembinkosi Ngema
  • Brigadier Patrick Nethengwe
  • Tumisho Nehemiah Maleka (Procurement Officer)
  • Major General Busisiwe Precious Temba
  • Brigadier Kirsty Jonker
  • Brigadier Petunia Reabetsoe Lenono
  • Brigadier Onica Ofentse Tlhoale
  • Colonel Nonjabulo Nomfundo Mngadi
  • Colonel Anton Paulsen
  • Colonel Natsenge Johannes Monyai

“There are 14 accused on the roll which include Matlala and 12 are members of the SAPS ranging in rank from Brigadier to Captain, two entities and a director of one of the entities.

“This matter again highlights how tender processes in government including law enforcement are compromised through government officials who are prepared to compromise themselves and their institutions just to make money on the side or to pay back favours.

“The matter was referred to IDAC [Investigating Directorate Against Corruption] in 2024 by a component of SAPS. The arrests show that agencies are still able to deal with corruption and effectively so,” the NPA said. 

Matlala told the court that he would not apply for bail at this stage and his matter was postponed to 07 April 2026 to consult with his attorney.

The rest of the accused were granted bail of between R40 000 and R80 000 with stringent conditions attached. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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Summit highlights innovation, investment in Africa’s blue economy

Source: Government of South Africa

Summit highlights innovation, investment in Africa’s blue economy

The Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre has been transformed into a hub for the regenerative blue economy as the second day of the Ocean Innovation Africa Summit reaches its peak.

The three-day summit, from 23 to 25 March 2026, has brought together about 500 delegates, including innovators, policymakers, investors and industry leaders, with the aim to drive the continent’s blue economy forward.

Discussions have centred on key priorities, including scaling regenerative blue business models, promoting nature-positive growth, enhancing marine protection, expanding economic opportunities, strengthening community resilience, and building Pan-African innovation ecosystems.

On Tuesday, 24 March, the programme shifted from high-level plenary discussions to more practical engagements, further positioning Durban as a growing player in Africa’s maritime development.

Activities included immersive technology showcases, highlighting innovative solutions aimed at transforming how people interact with the ocean environment.

A significant focus has also been the summit’s dedicated business-to-business engagement platform, which has facilitated face-to-face meetings between global investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.

These engagements are expected to unlock partnerships and investment opportunities needed to advancing Africa’s blue economy.

The programme also featured targeted workshops designed to translate strategy into tangible outcomes. Key sessions included the municipality’s Blue Finance workshop, Artificial Intelligence for Good initiatives, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) – African Union Commission (AUC) Accelerator Programme validation.

These engagements aim to bridge the gap between international frameworks and local economic opportunities.

Takalani Rathiyaya from the city’s Economic Development Directorate described the summit as a catalyst for local growth.

“The Ocean Innovation Africa Summit is one of the City Manager’s flagship programmes. Our biggest asset is our ocean, and our residents must benefit from this dialogue,” Rathiyaya said.

He added that the workshops are aligned with the Blue Charter, ensuring the municipality implements tangible programmes to empower local businesses.

Outcomes from the day’s engagements demonstrated that the summit is evolving beyond a platform for dialogue into a space for collaboration and investment.

By linking international investors with local innovation and capacity, the event is reinforcing Durban’s position within the global blue economy.

As the summit concludes on Wednesday, the focus remains on ensuring that investment in the ocean economy translates into sustainable local development, job creation, and the protection of vital marine resources. – SAnews.gov.za

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US troops in Nigeria to help fight terrorism could end up making it worse – analyst

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Saheed Babajide Owonikoko, Researcher, Centre for Peace and Security Studies, Modibbo Adama University of Technology

The recent deployment of US soldiers in Nigeria to assist the west African country in its counterterrorism campaign could worsen Nigeria’s insecurity.

It might be perceived as a sign of weakness; deepen religious divisions; widen the rift between the Economic Community of West African State (Ecowas) and the breakaway Alliance of Sahel States (AES); provoke terrorist attacks; and hinder the development of Nigeria’s armed forces.

Since Nigeria’s 1999 transition to civil rule, insecurity has worsened in the country’s northern regions. In 2024, 9,662 people were killed nationwide, 86% of them in the north. In 2025, violent deaths rose to 11,968, with northern Nigeria still the most affected.

The first batch of US soldiers was deployed barely two months after the US bombed militants in Nigeria’s north-west on Christmas Day 2025.

The director of defence information at Nigeria’s defence headquarters said the US troops’ presence would give Nigerian troops access to specialised technical capabilities. This would strengthen Nigeria’s ability to deter terrorist threats and enhance the protection of vulnerable communities across the country.

This is not the first time foreign boots have been brought into Nigeria since its independence in 1960. Foreign soldiers were deployed to fight the Nigerian Civil War, and to re-professionalise the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Between December 2014 and April 2015, Nigeria is said to have hired a private military company called Specialised Tasks, Training, Equipment and Protection (STTEP) International, involving 100 to 250 South African ex-soldiers, for a direct combat role against insurgents in Maiduguri. The government denied this.

Now is the first time US soldiers will be deployed in a combat-related operation as part of Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts. Among members of the public, there are divided opinions over this.

As a security scholar who researches Nigeria’s security crises, I have serious concerns that the deployment of US soldiers in Nigeria, regardless of their number, may exacerbate insecurity rather than improving it.

Why it may backfire

The armed forces of any country are an emblem of sovereignty. Foreigners in a combat operation against terrorism in another country may be framed domestically as a loss of control over security.

The US has long sought to station its Africa Command (Africom) in Nigeria. Nigeria resisted this, largely due to the sovereignty issue, regional politics in Ecowas and other strategic calculations. Since the US Christmas Day bombing, President Bola Tinubu has come under heavy criticism for not being able to truly act as commander-in-chief while a foreign power handles the security.

What is more, President Donald Trump has widened existing religious divisions across Nigeria by:

  • framing Nigeria’s security challenge as persecution of Christians

  • declaring Nigeria a country of particular concern

  • threatening to deploy the US military to Nigeria unilaterally to defend Christians.

Given this context, US boots on the ground in Nigeria may feed into several conspiracy narratives. One is the perception that the US is seeking access to Nigeria’s critical mineral resources.

It could reinforce the Alliance for Sahelian States-Ecowas crisis, deepening the security conundrum in the Sahel. Nigeria would likely be the most affected.

After the coups in Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, and Ecowas efforts to force the coupists to return power to civilians, the Alliance of Sahel States formed and disengaged with western powers. Animosity developed between the two regional groupings.

The Alliance of Sahel States countries, which used to be allies of France and the US, have now shifted to Russia and China. Niger’s junta ordered the withdrawal of over 1,000 foreign military personnel and closure of US facilities, including a drone base in Agadez.

Russia currently has at least 1,500 foreign troops, tagged as the African Corps (previously Wagner), fighting in Mali alone.

The deployment of US troops to Nigeria, given the context of fracture within Ecowas and the shift in foreign alliances, could lead to an escalation of insecurity in the region.

Thirdly, the US is the global arrowhead of westernisation that most Islamist terrorist organisations usually select as the target of attacks. Boko Haram attacks in Nigeria and the support it gets from foreign terrorist organisations like al-Qaeda and ISIS are due largely to the perception that Nigeria is a proxy for the US.

With US soldiers in Nigeria, Nigeria’s value as a target for terrorist organisations may increase. There are already signs that terrorist attacks are escalating in Nigeria since the Christmas Day bombing.

Even with US troops deployed to Nigeria’s north-east, terrorist attacks have become more daring. On 5 March, Islamic State West Africa Province attacked military bases in Borno State. Several high-ranking military officers were killed and arms and ammunition were carted away.

If US forces are attacked, Trump is more likely to deploy more soldiers.

This was the case in Somalia in May 2017. Trump expanded US military operations in Somalia after a US Navy Seal was killed by al-Shabaab.

Even if the presence of the US soldiers in Nigeria is to help Nigerian Armed Forces in operational capacities such as intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, logistics and air power manoeuvres, heavy reliance on the US could weaken the long-term development of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

What to do

US support is key to Nigeria’s improved capability to address its security challenge, but this should not take the form of US military boots on the ground in Nigeria. It can come in the form of training support and supply of precision equipment. That would help to address critical shortages that affect Nigeria’s ability to deal with insecurity.

– US troops in Nigeria to help fight terrorism could end up making it worse – analyst
– https://theconversation.com/us-troops-in-nigeria-to-help-fight-terrorism-could-end-up-making-it-worse-analyst-278112