Briefs Bound

West Africa’s New Rulers Use the Same Same Old Playbook of Their Predecessors$

West Africa’s latest elections—including Guinea and Côte d’Ivoire—are marked by steep entry fees, stage-managed rallies, and entrenched support for incumbents. Despite the promise of fresh leadership, the region’s new faces continue delivering the same old politics.

Libya: NOC Expands Exploration as Libya Targets 1.6 Million Barrels by 2026$

Libya’s energy sector is gaining momentum as Sonatrach and other major players resume exploration and drilling across the Ghadames Basin. Recent activity includes Sonatrach’s return after a decade-long halt, new exploratory wells by the National Oil Corporation, and successful deep-layer production tests by Zueitina Oil Company.

Egypt’s Debt Diplomacy: How Brussels Became Cairo’s Latest Creditor of Confidence$

The EU’s €7.4 billion package to Egypt marks Europe’s largest financial commitment to any non‑EU partner, aimed at stabilizing Cairo’s economy but adding to its already heavy debt load, now nearing 90 percent of GDP. The deal underscores Egypt’s strategic value to Europe amid regional turmoil and migration pressures.

Algeria Widens Anti-Corruption Crackdown, From Trade Ministry to Waste Agency$

A whistleblower case and an embezzlement probe have intensified scrutiny of Algeria’s government ministries amid an expanding anti-corruption campaign.