Security Crises, Resource Strategies, and Global Engagement Define Africa's Geopolitical Realities on January 22
Sudan's civil war continues to devastate critical infrastructure, with drone strikes by the RSF targeting power generation facilities. The attacks have plunged vast regions into darkness, worsening the humanitarian crisis as over 24 million people face dire food insecurity. The conflict's impact extends beyond Sudan's borders, straining relations with South Sudan and undermining regional stability. Immediate international action is needed to broker ceasefires, secure humanitarian corridors, and depoliticize essential services.
Nigeria's environmental crisis in Rivers State is intensifying, with an ongoing oil spill and wellhead fire in Buguma entering its fourth week. The government's failure to address the spill, attributed to sabotage, highlights systemic neglect in managing the Niger Delta's environmental challenges. Decades of oil spills have already devastated the region, and this latest incident underscores the urgent need for robust environmental governance and community engagement to rebuild trust.
Mozambique's LNG ambitions face renewed delays as TotalEnergies announces that its $20 billion project will not meet the 2029 operational target. While improved security in Cabo Delgado has enabled preparatory work to resume, political unrest following the disputed October 2024 election continues to disrupt operations. Mozambique's government must prioritize political stability and transparent governance to secure long-term investor confidence.
Zambia's copper sector recovery continues, with a 12% increase in output in 2024, driven by investments in key mines and efforts to reach the ambitious target of 3 million tons annually by 2030. This progress underscores Zambia's reliance on mining as an economic driver, but success will hinge on transparent resource governance and equitable revenue-sharing frameworks to ensure benefits reach local communities.
Ethiopia's partnership with Phoenix Group for an 80-megawatt power purchase agreement represents a strategic pivot toward integrating renewable energy and blockchain technologies into its economy. While this deal offers economic diversification opportunities, Ethiopia must ensure that such investments are aligned with broader development goals to maximize social and economic benefits.
Algeria's offshore energy collaboration with Chevron highlights its strategic importance as a gas supplier to Europe. The deal aligns with Algeria's ambitions to boost output and reinforces its role as a key player in global energy security. However, Algeria must balance these partnerships with efforts to strengthen domestic energy governance and diversify its economy to reduce overdependence on hydrocarbons.
Strategic Implications: The developments on January 22 highlight Africa's dual narrative of enduring challenges and emerging opportunities. From Sudan's escalating conflict to Zambia's resource-driven growth, the continent's trajectory will depend on its ability to navigate complex governance, security, and economic realities. Regional cooperation, governance reforms, and strategic international partnerships will be critical to addressing these issues and unlocking Africa's vast potential.
Geopolitical Risk Assessment for the Africa
(22-01-2025)
Africa's geopolitical landscape on January 22 is shaped by critical security challenges, resource-driven economic strategies, and evolving international engagements. While Sudan, Nigeria, and Mozambique grapple with deep-seated governance and security crises, Zambia and Ethiopia highlight the continent's resource potential and its efforts to achieve economic resilience. Meanwhile, the expansion of international partnerships, as seen with Angola and Algeria, underscores Africa's growing centrality in global strategic calculations. Addressing these interconnected challenges and opportunities demands governance reforms, enhanced regional cooperation, and balanced global partnerships.
Geopolitical Risk Index
Developments to Follow for the Africa (See All Global)
Previous Briefings
- Security Crises, Resource Strategies, and Global Engagement Define Africa's Geopolitical Realities on January 22 - (22-01-2025)
- Crises, Resource Diplomacy, and Global Engagement Define Africa's Geopolitical Trajectory on January 21 - (21-01-2025)
- Security Crises, Resource Politics, and Governance Challenges Shape Africa's Geopolitical Landscape on January 20 - (20-01-2025)
- From Conflict to Opportunity: Africa's Geopolitical Landscape Evolves Amid Governance and Resource Shifts - (19-01-2025)
- From Conflict to Global Partnerships: Africa's Complex Geopolitical Trajectory on January 18 - (18-01-2025)
- Escalating Conflicts and Resource Diplomacy Shape Africa's Geopolitical Landscape on January 17 - (17-01-2025)
- Corruption, Economic Volatility, and Post-Colonial Tensions Define Africa's Geopolitical Dynamics on January 16 - (16-01-2025)
- Governance Crises and Strategic Resource Shifts Define Africa's Geopolitical Challenges on January 15 - (15-01-2025)
