On the 13th anniversary of the 2009 massacre in Conakry, Guinea, a trial began for 11 former security and government officials accused of murder, attempted murder, torture, and rape during a pro-democracy protest. The incident resulted in at least 150 deaths and the rape of at least 100 women. Moussa Dadis Camara, Guinea’s then-military ruler, returned from exile to stand trial, denying responsibility. The trial, which has faced numerous delays, is seen as a step towards justice by victims and human rights organizations, despite ongoing issues with sexual violence and impunity in Guinea.

Environmental DNA (eDNA) technology is revolutionizing biodiversity monitoring by allowing scientists to detect the presence and diversity of species through genetic material in water, soil, or air samples. Biologist Nahi El Bar Jiyed, working at Mauritania's Banc d’Arguin National Park, is part of a UNESCO initiative using eDNA to study 22 marine world heritage sites. The technology offers advantages over traditional surveys, providing rapid results and noninvasive sampling, though it faces challenges such as standardization and the need for a global reference database. eDNA has applications in detecting invasive species, tracking endangered animals, and monitoring climate change impacts on ecosystems.

In Dakar, Senegal, dozens were arrested amid protests where demonstrators clashed with police. Opposition supporters claim their leader, Ousmane Sonko, is being falsely accused to prevent his presidential run. Sonko was found guilty of defamation but remains eligible to run for president, despite also facing rape charges. Protests have escalated since March 14, with over 130 arrests and three deaths. Critics accuse President Macky Sall of suppressing rights and potentially seeking an unconstitutional third term. More protests are expected.

Security experts are convening in Senegal to address the surge in violent extremism in Africa, especially in the Sahel region, where Islamist militant attacks have increased by nearly 50 percent in the last year. The United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel, the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, and Senegal’s Center for Advanced Studies in Defense and Security are organizing the meeting to evaluate the U.N.'s Prevention of Violent Extremism program and improve regional implementation. Ghana's National Security Minister, Albert Kan-Dapaah, highlighted the importance of inclusive national frameworks to prevent attacks, while a U.N. Development Program report indicated that employment needs are a significant factor in individuals joining terrorist groups. Experts emphasize the necessity of a unified, transnational approach to effectively combat terrorism.

The first Africa Vegan Restaurant Week was held with participation from 15 restaurants in Senegal, including Casa Teranga, Senegal's only fully vegan restaurant. The event aimed to promote plant-based dining as a sustainable and ethical choice, countering traditional meat-heavy African dishes. Despite challenges in changing local perceptions, advocates like Dakar native Bashir Niang, Anna Touré, and Nabaasa Innocent argue for the affordability and historical precedence of plant-based diets in Africa. The event saw participation from over 50 restaurants across at least 20 countries, highlighting a growing interest in veganism on the continent.

A Senegal court dismissed a lawsuit by the Taxawu Cayar Collective against the Touba Proteine Marine fishmeal factory, which was accused of polluting Cayar's environment and harming the livelihoods of local fishermen. Despite video evidence and lab analysis showing toxic metals in the local lake and tap water, the collective is considering an appeal or new litigation to shut down the factory. The factory's lawyer, Boubacar Cisse, denies the pollution claims and plans to retaliate against the collective for defamation.

Policymakers worldwide met in Senegal to discuss Africa's pressing security challenges, focusing on redefining international partners' roles in promoting stability. The International Forum of Dakar on Peace and Security, in its eighth edition, saw over 1,000 participants, including heads of state and high-ranking officials. Senegalese President Macky Sall highlighted the need to address the economic crisis and create opportunities for Africa's youth. The forum occurred after France's military withdrawal from Mali and criticism of U.N. missions. With militant Islamic violence on the rise, experts emphasized solutions defined and implemented by local actors. The forum also discussed reducing Africa's reliance on international food aid and increasing resilience to external shocks like the war in Ukraine.

Guinea, with its rich natural beauty, has potential for ecotourism that could provide an alternative to its mining industry, which contributes to environmental degradation and poverty. Despite being the world's second-largest producer of bauxite and having other mineral resources, over half of Guinea's population lives below the poverty line. Human Rights Watch reported on the negative impacts of mining, while the Belgian development agency Enabel has launched an ecotourism project in Kindia to develop tourist sites and train guides. Local advocates believe that with proper development, ecotourism could surpass mining in economic benefits.

John Kerry, U.S. special envoy for climate, pledged support for Africa's climate change mitigation efforts at a conference in Senegal. He emphasized the need for partnerships and highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on Africa. Kerry's visit to West Africa, which included meetings with officials like Nigeria's President Muhammadu Buhari, aimed to support green energy transitions. Collins Nzovu and Leila Benali expressed their appreciation for U.S. leadership and recognition of Africa's challenges. The U.S. plans to announce further commitments at an upcoming climate conference in Egypt.

The Movement of Democratic Forces of Casamance, led by Cesar Atoute Badiate, signed a peace deal with the Senegalese government to end one of Africa's longest-running separatist conflicts. The agreement was signed in Guinea-Bissau, though other more aggressive rebel factions along the Gambian border did not participate. Amnesty International Senegal's director Seydi Gassama commented on the need to include these factions for comprehensive peace. President Macky Sall had prioritized peace in Casamance for his second term, but the deal's announcement did not affect recent legislative elections. The conflict has lasted 40 years, causing thousands of deaths and recent displacement of villagers due to military offensives. This is the first time a faction has agreed to disarm, sparking optimism from civil society leader Dame Beye. Casamance is geographically, culturally, and historically distinct from the rest of Senegal, and the rebels are suspected of funding their movement through trafficking.

The 30th annual Saint Louis Jazz Festival in Senegal attracted hundreds of music enthusiasts worldwide, featuring performances from nine main acts, including Senegalese griot Noumoucounda Cissoko and French-Martiniquais jazz bassist Sélène Saint-Aimé. Organized by the Saint Louis Jazz Association, the festival showcased a blend of conventional jazz and traditional West African instruments. Attendees experienced the event's magic and nostalgia, with the main events at Place Blaya and festivities continuing in local bars. The festival emphasized encounters, sharing, and community, deeply rooted in the city's heritage.

Civilians in Burkina Faso are increasingly affected by attacks from armed Islamist groups and government security forces, with violence escalating since 2016. The conflict has resulted in widespread killings, rapes, and displacement, with over 1.8 million people displaced by February 2022. Human Rights Watch reports new atrocities, including sexual violence against women and the use of child soldiers. The government's counterterrorism efforts have been criticized for corruption and inefficiency, and despite a military coup in January, violence continues. Transitional President Damiba has proposed a new strategy, and there is some consideration of peace talks.

The Private Equity & Venture Capital Association (AVCA) reports that Africa attracted a record $7.4 billion in private capital in 2021, with significant interest in financial technology companies and infrastructure deals focused on renewable energy, transportation, and communication services. Challenges for investors in Africa include currency volatility, small national economies, limited access to finance, and political unrest. Senegal has attracted international investment by passing a 'start-up act' to support innovative new businesses.

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