Author: Tiffany Bright

Senegal has launched a pilot program to introduce English lessons in nursery and primary schools, aiming to enhance students’ language skills and global opportunities. Previously, English was only taught in public high schools and universities, though private schools sometimes offered it earlier.

The initiative aligns with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s vision to expand Senegal’s global engagement while maintaining ties with foreign partners. Currently, students receive two short lessons per week, covering basic vocabulary such as greetings, colors, and family relationships.

Supporters argue that mastering English will help Senegalese students access international knowledge and opportunities, especially as English dominates diplomacy and scientific research. However, critics highlight a shortage of trained teachers and resources, questioning the feasibility of the program. Despite challenges, the government is investing in digital tools and training to ensure its success.

Washington, D.C. – In a controversial statement, U.S. Congressman Scott Perry, a Republican from Pennsylvania, has alleged that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funded terrorist organizations, including Boko Haram. Perry made the claim during the inaugural hearing of the Subcommittee on Delivering on Government Efficiency on Thursday.

The assertion, which has raised eyebrows, came as part of Perry’s broader criticism of government inefficiency in foreign aid distribution. The congressman stated that USAID, in its efforts to promote development and humanitarian aid, had inadvertently supported groups involved in terrorism, citing Boko Haram as a key example.

“We have to address the fact that our taxpayer dollars may have been used to fund organizations that directly harm innocent people,” Perry said during the hearing. “We need a thorough investigation to ensure that U.S. foreign aid is not unintentionally benefiting groups like Boko Haram.”

Perry’s comments come amid growing concerns about the effectiveness and oversight of U.S. foreign aid programs, especially in regions affected by conflict and terrorism. While USAID has not responded directly to the claims, the agency has long faced scrutiny over its operations in fragile states, where funds may be misdirected or end up in the hands of extremist groups due to weak governance and oversight mechanisms.

Boko Haram, a militant Islamist group operating in Nigeria and neighboring countries, has been responsible for numerous violent attacks and abductions, making it a primary target of U.S. counterterrorism efforts in the region. The claim made by Perry is likely to fuel ongoing debates over the allocation and monitoring of U.S. foreign aid.

In response to Perry’s statement, some experts have questioned the validity of the claim, noting that there is no concrete evidence to suggest that USAID directly funded Boko Haram. Critics of Perry’s remarks argue that the focus should be on improving oversight mechanisms to prevent aid from falling into the wrong hands, rather than making broad accusations.

The controversy highlights the ongoing challenges facing U.S. foreign aid programs, particularly in regions plagued by instability and extremist activity. As the debate continues, lawmakers are expected to push for greater transparency and accountability in the administration of international development funds.

 

Cotonou, Benin – In a move that has sparked diplomatic tensions, the Beninese government has recalled its ambassador to Niamey, Gildas Agonkan, following controversial remarks he made during a ceremony in Gaya. The ambassador expressed apologies to the Nigerien people on behalf of his country, Benin, which has raised questions about his actions and the motives behind the apology. The apology was made in the context of a ceremony where Agonkan addressed the audience on behalf of Benin, offering a public expression of regret for unspecified grievances. The statement has since stirred considerable debate, with many questioning the appropriateness of Agonkan’s comments, particularly as they were made without prior consultation with Benin’s government. In response to the incident, the Beninese authorities quickly recalled Agonkan, stating that his remarks were made in an unofficial capacity and did not reflect the official stance of Benin. The foreign ministry expressed dissatisfaction with the ambassador’s actions, emphasizing that any diplomatic gestures should align with the country’s established foreign policy and be made through the proper channels. “The remarks made by Ambassador Agonkan were not authorized by the Beninese government. We are committed to maintaining positive relations with all our neighbors, including Niger, but such statements should always be made with the approval of the government,” said a statement from the Beninese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The controversial apology has sparked a mix of reactions in both Benin and Niger. Some in Benin feel the apology was unnecessary and undermined the country’s sovereignty, while others believe it may have been an attempt to mend ties between the two nations. On the Nigerien side, the apology has drawn mixed responses, with some seeing it as an opportunity for reconciliation and others questioning its legitimacy. The diplomatic incident comes at a time of heightened political sensitivity in West Africa, where relations between nations are under increasing scrutiny due to regional security concerns and the aftermath of political unrest in neighboring countries, including Niger. The Beninese government has reassured the public that it will continue to pursue a policy of constructive diplomacy and that it remains committed to fostering stability in the region. As of now, it is unclear whether Ambassador Agonkan will be reassigned or if further diplomatic measures will be taken. The incident serves as a reminder of the delicate nature of international relations and the importance of clear communication and alignment in diplomatic affairs.

Bamako, Mali – Ibrahim Nabi Togola, president of the opposition party New Vision for Mali (NVPM), was released on the evening of Monday, February 10, his associates confirmed to RFI. Togola had been detained by State Security on December 28 in Bamako, just before he was set to launch a new movement aimed at restoring constitutional order in the country. His release has brought immense relief to his family, although Togola returned home “weakened” after his ordeal. The circumstances surrounding his detention and subsequent release remain unclear, sparking further concerns about the political climate in Mali.