Shield and Alert: Sahel Bound

Sahel: Foreign Workers Targeted in New Mali Kidnappings$

A string of recent kidnappings in western and northern Mali—including the abduction of five Indian technicians and an Emirati businessman—highlights the increasing risks for foreign workers engaged in energy, mining, and infrastructure projects. The evolving tactics of armed groups and complex negotiation processes have led companies to overhaul security protocols and adjust operations to cope with persistent threats.

Read More

Spain Faces Scrutiny Over Migrant Centers in Mauritania$

Political debate in Spain is increasing over the country’s funding of migrant centers in Mauritania, as critics claim these sites lack adequate legal safeguards and human rights protections.

Read More

Crisis in Sudan: Meet the Ruthless Warlord Hemedti$

Libya has Khalifa Haftar, Sudan has its own ruthless warlord, Mohamed Hamdan Dagolo—better known as Hemedti. Both men have risen to power through armed force and human rights abuses, commanding personal militias that operate outside legal state structures. They secure their authority through violence, control over territory and resources, and a readiness to suppress opposition through fear and brute force. A profile of Sudan’s Hemedti.

Read More

French Nationals Urged to Leave Mali as Insurgent Attacks Intensify in the Sahel$

Defense ministers from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger met in Niamey to accelerate their joint military alliance, but no deployment date was confirmed. France is advising nationals to leave Mali “temporarily” amid deteriorating security, while international shipping companies hesitate to continue cargo routes. November 7 brought reports of multiple attacks by insurgents, further highlighting the region’s instability.

Read More