Emirates

Africa
Giorgia Meloni's Mattei Plan challenged by the opposition

Two years after the much-heralded announcement of €5.5bn in Italian investment on the continent, the programme's disappointing results are causing political opponents to grit their teeth.

Sudan
Anti-war coalition rails against Islamists as it tours Europe

For the past 10 days, the coalition led by Abdallah Hamdok has been trying to drum up fresh support in European capitals. During these meetings, at the risk of undermining their professed neutrality, its members have systematically denounced the Muslim Brotherhood, which is allied with Sudan's regular army.

Africa
How Eric Freymond worked with an Abu Dhabi advisory bank favoured by African leaders

The late financier and manager of an Hermès heir's fortune was funneling off funds via an Emirati wealth management firm which does a lot of business with African political figures. The number of lawsuits filed against his family and partners in Switzerland continues to grow.

Palace Intrigues
Erik Prince, Oscar Sudi, Emmanuel Macron

Intrigues big and small: every Thursday, Africa Intelligence takes a peek into the corridors of power in Africa and beyond.

MadagascarEmmanuel Macron's growing fears over Russian influence

DRCErik Prince's low-key trip to Brussels

Kenya-TanzaniaWilliam Ruto's right-hand man denied entry to Dar es Salaam

Algeria
The life of businessman Ayoub Aissiou far from Algiers

The owner of the very popular television channel El Djazairia, now closed, has been forced to live in exile for several years, locating himself in France, Italy, and the United Arab Emirates.

Algeria
Algiers slowly severs diplomatic ties with Abu Dhabi

Abdelmadjid Tebboune has decided to reduce Algeria’s diplomatic representation in Abu Dhabi to the bare minimum.

Somalia, Somaliland
After recognition by Israel, Hargeisa worries about Turkish influence

Through the Turkish consulate headed by Ozan Pekin, Ankara maintains a discreet presence on both sides of the de facto border between Somalia and Somaliland. This diplomatic and economic influence is now being closely monitored by the Somaliland authorities.

Burkina Faso
Junta looks to UAE for military aircraft and helicopters

In order to negotiate for new air assets to combat armed groups, the Burkinabe authorities have been sending members of the intelligence services to Dubai.