Kenya: Chinese hackers attacked government during debt crisis
Kenya has reported that Chinese hackers attacked government institutions during the country’s recent debt crisis. The attack targeted the Kenyan Ministry of Finance, the central bank, and other key departments. The country has struggled in recent years to repay Chinese loans taken to support its infrastructure development program. The hack occurred as Kenya was negotiating with China to restructure the debt, including potentially handing over Kenyan infrastructure as collateral. It is not yet clear what the aim of the cyberattack was, but experts suggest that it may have been an attempt to gain leverage over Kenya’s negotiators.
Senegal: Opposition leader faces trial for rape
Opposition leader Ousmane Sonko is facing a possible 10-year jail sentence for rape allegations made by a young woman who worked at a beauty salon. Sonko, who is seen as a potential challenger to President Macky Sall, has denied the allegations and claims that the case is politically motivated. The trial has sparked protests, with supporters and opposition members taking to the streets. Sonko’s lawyers have accused the authorities of intimidating witnesses and blocking access to the court for supporters. The trial is being closely watched as a test of the independence of the judiciary in Senegal.
Sudan: UN rights chief calls for end to violence
The United Nations’ human rights chief, Michelle Bachelet, has called on the Sudanese generals to stop “senseless violence” as the country faces ongoing clashes between government forces and armed groups. The violence has led to a humanitarian crisis, with thousands of people fleeing their homes. In recent days, a ceasefire brokered by the African Union and the United Nations has brought some respite, but there are reports of continued fighting. Bachelet has called for an independent investigation into the violence and for the protection of civilians.
Sudan: Clashes reported during second day of ceasefire
Despite the ceasefire, clashes have been reported in Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, during the second day of the truce. Residents reported hearing artillery fire and seeing warplanes overhead. The ceasefire was brokered after weeks of heavy fighting in the city between government forces and rebel groups. The fighting has led to a humanitarian crisis, with many people fleeing their homes. The ceasefire is being monitored by a team from the African Union and the United Nations.
South Africa: Inflation slows but interest rates set to rise
Inflation in South Africa slowed more than expected in April, dropping to 6.8% year on year. However, the central bank is expected to continue raising interest rates to combat inflationary pressures. The country is facing an economic crisis, with high levels of debt and slow growth. The recent unrest in the country, which saw widespread riots and looting, has further damaged the economy. The South African rand has also been hit hard, with the currency losing value against major currencies.
South Africa: Currency gains ahead of inflation data
Despite the economic challenges facing South Africa, the country’s currency, the rand, has been strengthening in recent days. The currency gained ahead of the release of inflation data which showed a slowdown in April. However, experts warn that the rand remains vulnerable to external shocks, particularly movements in global interest rates. The country’s high levels of debt and slow growth also continue to weigh on the currency.
African Boulevard News – (2023-05-24)
