Africa

Africa's politics turn on a few large anchor states, Nigeria, South Africa, Ethiopia and Kenya, on mineral wealth that draws regional powers and foreign companies, and on trade routes along the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. The standing conflicts include the fighting over territory and minerals in eastern DR Congo and the dispute over Somaliland and sea access in the Horn of Africa. Boko Haram's insurgency in northern Nigeria and the military-led governments of the Sahel add to them. This page covers Africa's regions and countries, including Nigeria, DR Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya and South Africa: politics, conflicts and news, month by month.

Geopolitical tensions and standing conflicts: Africa

The disputes that keep coming back, from armed confrontation to economic and diplomatic rivalry, in which countries of this region take part or have a stake.

Horn of Africa realignment

The Horn of Africa is shaped by disputes over Somaliland's claim to independence, the unresolved border and sea access quarrel between Ethiopia and its neighbours, and the rebuilding of the Somali state. Somalia and its allies oppose Somaliland's recognition, while Somaliland and its partners seek it. Al-Shabaab fights for an Islamic emirate.

Nigeria's jihadist insurgency

Jihadist groups and armed gangs are fighting in northern Nigeria. Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province want to establish Islamic rule and reject the Nigerian state. Nigeria's army is trying to defeat them and restore control. The conflict has killed thousands and displaced millions.

Sahel military transition zone

The Sahel is contested by military governments, jihadist groups and Tuareg separatists. Military leaders in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger hold power after coups and have turned away from France, while jihadist groups fight for Islamic rule and Tuareg movements seek autonomy or independence in northern Mali.