Coming up this week: The uncertain future of ECOWAS amid economic and political challenges, the pipeline standoff between Benin and Niger, and the launch of the first turbine at the Nachtigal dam in Cameroon. Coming up this week: The uncertain future of ECOWAS amid economic and political challenges, the pipeline standoff between Benin and Niger, and the launch of the first turbine at the Nachtigal dam in Cameroon.
ECOWAS: bloc under growing pressure
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is facing a critical period with the challenges posed by the Alliance of Sahel States and economic instability in West Africa. Recent coups and economic sanctions have highlighted the organization’s weaknesses, exacerbating internal divisions.
However, the election of a new president in Senegal and the dialogue initiatives by Bassirou Diomaye Faye offer prospects for renewal.
To explore whether ECOWAS can overcome these obstacles and maintain its role as an economic pillar, we interviewed international economist Magaye Gaye from the West African Development Bank (BOAD) and the African Guarantee and Economic Cooperation Fund (FAGACE).
“To stay on course, ECOWAS must develop policies for industrial complementarity, focus on energy, industry, integration complementarities, and intra-regional trade.” – Magaye Gaye, international economist.
Benin-Niger: The Pipeline Standoff
Since May 6, Benin and Niger have been in crisis due to Beninese President Patrice Talon’s decision to block the loading of Nigerien crude oil in Beninese waters, citing informal practices and protesting against Niger’s closure of their common border.
This situation has been exacerbated by accusations of blackmail from Nigerien Prime Minister and the involvement of China, which built a pipeline for Nigerien oil exports.
Surprisingly, Benin lifted the embargo on May 15 after fruitful negotiations with a Chinese delegation, although the reopening of the Nigerien land border remains uncertain.
More details on this economic and diplomatic crisis are provided by Romual Vissoh for Business Africa.
Energy Emergency: Cameroon launches its powerful Nachtigal Dam
The city of Douala, Cameroon, suffers from frequent power outages, severely disrupting activities. To address this crisis, the government urgently launched the Nachtigal dam, built in partnership with the French firm EDF, which is expected to provide 420 MW by December.
Currently, 60 MW are already in service, representing nearly 30% of the energy needs of southern Cameroon.
