France’s plan to drastically reduce its military presence in West and Central Africa is facing unexpected setbacks, potentially jeopardizing its influence as Russia gains ground. Chad’s abrupt termination of its defense pact with France highlights the growing complexities and challenges for Paris in the region.
Boko Haram militants have launched a new assault in the Lake Chad region, killing Chadian soldiers. The attack comes after a period of relative calm following a successful military operation to dismantle extremist bases in 2020. The insurgency, which has plagued the region for over a decade, continues to threaten the stability of Chad and its neighbors.
Chad is on high alert as heavy rains continue to swell rivers, threatening further devastation after deadly floods have already claimed over 500 lives. The crisis has impacted millions, destroying homes, farmland, and livestock, highlighting the urgent need for climate action.
In N’Djamena, Chad, a centuries-old hair ritual using Chebe seeds is experiencing a resurgence as people seek natural alternatives to chemical hair products. The Chebe treatment, involving a paste of Chebe seeds, cherry seeds, and cloves, is believed to promote hair growth and luster. While the process is time-consuming, it is gaining popularity across Africa and beyond, reflecting a global trend toward natural hair care.
The United States is still evaluating whether to withdraw troops from Niger and Chad, two African countries crucial to counterterrorism efforts in the Sahel region. The government of Niger ended an agreement with the U.S. last month, while Chad has recently questioned its own agreement. The reversals have raised concerns that the U.S. is losing influence in Africa to Russia and China. U.S. officials say discussions on a new military agreement with Niger are ongoing, while efforts will be made to convince Chad to allow U.S. forces to stay.
