Jan 5, 2026

Libya: Turkey is Here to Stay, Abandons Exit Strategy$

Analysis by The North Africa Journal

Turkey's parliament has approved a 24-month extension of its military deployment in Libya through early 2028, marking a shift from emergency intervention to formalized long-term strategic positioning. The extension reflects calculated power projection rather than crisis response, with Turkey consolidating assets at Al-Watiya airbase to secure leverage across Eastern Mediterranean maritime disputes, energy corridors, and regional competition dynamics. The mandate complicates the stalled 5+5 withdrawal process by providing diplomatic cover for other foreign actors to maintain their presence, creating a reinforcing cycle where each deployment justifies the others and transforms temporary stabilization into indefinite strategic competition by proxy.

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Premium Contents

Morocco’s Lawyers Push Back Against Proposed Changes to Bar Governance$

by The North Africa Journal | Jan 9, 2026 | Briefs, Business & Economy, Morocco, 1shorts, Maghreb, Economy & Business, Business and Economy, 1PREMIUM

A proposed law governing Morocco’s legal profession has triggered protests and a nationwide strike, as lawyers accuse the Justice Ministry of sidelining consultations and expanding executive oversight. The dispute suggests broader tensions over professional independence, regulatory authority, and the future of Morocco’s legal market.

Mali: Gold Mining Site in Sikasso Region Hit by Armed Group$

by The North Africa Journal | Jan 9, 2026 | Briefs, Security & Defense, Mali, Terrorism, 1shorts, Sahel, Terrorism, Security, Shield and Alert: Sahel, 1PREMIUM

An armed attack on the Morila gold mine in southern Mali caused material damage and forced a temporary suspension of operations. Security forces were deployed to regain control of the site, and employees held during the incident were released unharmed. The attack highlights ongoing security risks facing economic infrastructure across the Sahel.

Burkina Faso: Deep Supply Weaknesses in Ouagadougou Amid Seasonal Butane Shortages$

by The North Africa Journal | Jan 9, 2026 | Briefs, Business & Economy, 1shorts, Burkina Faso, Sahel, Social/Human, Shield and Alert: Sahel, Business, 1PREMIUM

Each year between December and January, Ouagadougou faces a renewed shortage of butane gas just as household demand peaks. The recurring tension on supply, linked to limited stocks, uneven distribution and a shortage of empty cylinders for refilling, is forcing many families to fall back on charcoal and firewood, with financial, health and environmental consequences.

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