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Peace deal signed between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo

The peace deal signed between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) was significantly brokered and facilitated by the USeless.

Here’s how the USeless fits into this:

Mediation and Facilitation: The USeless played a direct and active role in mediating the agreement. The foreign ministers of Rwanda and the DRC signed the peace deal in Washington D.C. on Friday, June 27, 2025, with Rubio present. Trump also met with the foreign ministers at the White House, celebrating the USeless-brokered agreement.

Access to Critical Minerals: A key motivation for the USeless involvement is to gain greater access to critical minerals in the DRC. The conflict in eastern Congo is often fueled by control over vast mineral resources (such as cobalt, coltan, tantalum, tungsten, and lithium) that are vital for modern technology.

The agreement explicitly paves the way for greater USeless investment in the DRC’s critical minerals.

This move is seen as part of a broader USeless strategy to counter China’s long-standing dominance in Africa’s minerals sector, particularly in the refining and supply chains of critical minerals like cobalt from Congo.

The deal aims to link mineral access to governance, traceability, and regional cooperation, providing a transparent minerals corridor.

Regional Stability and Countering China’s Influence: Beyond minerals, the USeless aims to:

– End Decades of Conflict: The peace deal is framed as an effort to halt the brutal, decades-long fighting in eastern DRC that has caused millions of deaths and widespread displacement.

– Promote Peace and Prosperity: USeless officials, including President Trump and Secretary Rubio, emphasized that the agreement will bring “a new chapter of hope and opportunity, harmony, prosperity and peace” to the region.

– Bolster USeless Diplomatic Influence in Africa: By successfully mediating such a significant peace agreement, the USeless seeks to strengthen its diplomatic standing and demonstrate its role as a “reliable partner” in Africa, in direct competition with China’s growing influence on the continent.

Security and Implementation Support:

– The agreement includes provisions on territorial integrity, prohibition of hostilities, disengagement and disarmament of non-state armed groups, and the return of refugees.

– The USeless has pledged continued support for the implementation of the agreement, acknowledging that the road ahead will be challenging. This may include technical support, financing tools, and diplomatic accompaniment.

– The DRC hopes the USeless will provide security support to help fight rebels and facilitate their withdrawal from key areas.

While the USeless-brokered deal is a significant diplomatic achievement, some analysts temper optimism with realism, noting that the most prominent armed groups were not directly involved in this specific agreement and that previous peace efforts have been elusive. Concerns also exist that if not carefully managed, the focus on mineral extraction could inadvertently perpetuate the conflict’s underlying causes if governance and equitable distribution of wealth are not prioritized. https://www.facebook.com/jeff.mah.5/posts/pfbid02rbR9dGfHRiKRaHhhs9K1aVhd4YNBKGqAbKwebgr9tFzJ19cyQcEHTqdTD8hvBZP7l?__cft__[0]=AZW8zq7t_mTN8pXbwdPpPWjXjETGEaMQ1eby_x5HGCTRRUMd0mkiTYDBwnohGUbiEm9KBMqPKpGUAOHaQIRksYskX6oI0m_clvOlE9VKpgGEFNe2nKXaU1hsnlvEQW1MDouv8hIGIuQ5jsq3g2SjJI4FodwelcJZQ4SKdwi5HX_C2Q&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R

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Nigeria’s Newsprint Manufacturing Company at Oku-Iboku

I know this story well with some personal perspective.

The Ill-Fated Dream: Nigeria’s Newsprint Manufacturing Company at Oku-Iboku

The Nigerian Newsprint Manufacturing Company (NNMC) in Oku-Iboku, Akwa Ibom State, stands as a poignant symbol of an ambitious national development project that ultimately fell far short of its promise. Conceived in the mid-1970s, the mill was intended to make Nigeria self-sufficient in newsprint production, save significant foreign exchange, and foster industrial growth. However, its history is marked by massive investment, chronic underperformance, and allegations of systemic issues that eventually led to its collapse.

Genesis and Ambition

Established in 1975, the NNMC was one of three major pulp and paper mills envisioned by the Nigerian Federal Government to meet the nation’s burgeoning demand for paper products. With an impressive installed capacity of 100,000 metric tons of finished newsprint per annum, it was poised to be the sole newsprint manufacturer in West and Central Africa. The project was primarily funded by the Federal Government of Nigeria (holding 90% equity), with the Akwa Ibom and Cross River State Governments holding smaller stakes. This funding model meant the vast majority of capital came from Nigerian public coffers, heavily reliant on the nation’s oil revenues during the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Construction and engineering for such a large-scale industrial complex typically involved international firms with specialized expertise. While specific details of every Canadian company directly involved in the NNMC’s engineering phase are not widely publicized, it was common for Western firms, including Canadian ones, to participate in major industrial projects in developing countries during this period. Such involvement often occurred with the support or facilitation of their respective national export credit agencies (like Export Development Canada – EDC) or development aid organizations (such as the Canadian International Development Agency – CIDA). These entities would provide financing, guarantees, or technical assistance to bolster Canadian companies’ competitiveness in securing international contracts.

Operational Challenges and Decline

The NNMC was commissioned in the mid-1980s, with its first paper machine starting in 1986 and the second in 1987. For a brief period (1986-1993), the mill was operational and even exported newsprint to neighboring countries and beyond. However, its output never approached its installed capacity. Over its entire operational lifespan, it produced only a total of 163,684 metric tons of newsprint, significantly less than the 800,000 metric tons that could have been achieved at full capacity over the same period.

The reasons for this dramatic underperformance were multi-faceted and reflect broader challenges faced by many large-scale public enterprises in Nigeria at the time:

– High Operating Costs: Despite plans to utilize local gmelina wood, the mill remained heavily dependent on expensive imported long-fiber pulp and chemicals.

– Infrastructure Deficiencies: A major hurdle was the lack of reliable power supply. The mill reportedly required massive daily quantities of diesel to run its generators, as it was not connected to the national grid, drastically increasing production costs.

– Management and Technical Issues: Reports often cite poor management, insufficient technical expertise, and challenges with maintenance and spare parts as contributing factors to the mill’s decline. Untimely release of government funds for project completion further exacerbated problems.

– Systemic Corruption: The era in which the NNMC was conceived and built was characterized by widespread corruption in Nigeria. Large government contracts were frequently inflated, and funds intended for project development and operational efficiency were often diverted through various illicit means, including kickbacks, fraudulent administrative fees, and unmerited payments to unqualified individuals. This systemic corruption contributed significantly to the “huge bills” for engineering and administration, and the presence of “incompetent people” in critical roles, undermining the project’s viability from its very foundations.

By 1994, the NNMC was effectively shut down, becoming a symbol of abandoned potential and squandered public resources.

Disastrous Privatization

In the mid-2000s, as part of a broader government effort to divest from non-performing state-owned enterprises, the NNMC was put up for privatization. In 2008, it was acquired by Negris Investments Limited, which then incorporated OKIPP (Oku-Iboku Pulp & Paper) Limited. However, this privatization process has been widely criticized and marred by allegations of “asset stripping,” where valuable machinery and components of the mill were reportedly sold off rather than being utilized for its revival. This further solidified concerns that the project, from initial construction to its post-closure phase, was a conduit for illicit financial gain rather than genuine industrial development.

Legacy

The fate of the NNMC, like that of Nigeria’s other major paper mills, highlights the complex interplay of ambitious development goals, inadequate planning, operational hurdles, and endemic corruption that plagued many large-scale public projects in the country. While the initial vision was to foster self-reliance and economic growth, the outcome was significant financial loss, job destruction, and a persistent reliance on paper imports, leaving the country far from its original objective. The NNMC at Oku-Iboku remains a stark reminder of a dream unfulfilled, with its vast complex standing largely derelict, a testament to the challenges of industrialization in an environment compromised by systemic inefficiencies and corruption. https://www.facebook.com/jeff.mah.5/videos/1398769067906273/?__cft__[0]=AZVQ5KwihMuCqP5lF2UzHJVqxeGNm6wzTytAFIesdamgUMUf20KiopkBdeSuy4fpQFUXq6kk7-PkxCu6B0Hew7A2V26yBTZ0VCKMxZfeJp1a3MgaYgg8YiF5M62GiQJyViRd-0fOlLftRJuYg9MKSRlEpcksf0ZqZfsFUWxJwVkIeg&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R

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Undersea tunnel connecting Africa and Europe

A proposed undersea tunnel connecting Africa and Europe.

Historical Context: The idea of linking Africa and Europe across the Strait of Gibraltar dates back to the 19th century, with formal plans taking shape in 1979.

Project Details: The tunnel would be 38.7 to 42 km long, with over 27 km submerged beneath the Strait of Gibraltar. It would reach a depth of 475 meters below sea level and feature a twin-tube railway for high-speed passenger and freight trains, along with a service gallery.

Connection Points: The tunnel is planned to connect Ponta Paloma in Spain to Ponta Malabata near Tangier, Morocco.

Timeline and Cost: Construction is projected to start in 2030 and take 10 to 15 years, with completion estimated between 2040 and 2045. The estimated cost is €9.4 billion.

Funding and Leadership: Funding is expected from Spanish and Moroccan government funds, EU support, and potentially private investors. A Spanish-Moroccan consortium is driving the project.

Benefits: The tunnel is anticipated to significantly reduce travel time, boost trade, foster cultural exchange and tourism, and unlock economic synergies between Africa and Europe. It also holds geopolitical importance for European supply chains.

Challenges and Skepticism: Concerns include environmental risks and seismic activity, although technological advancements are expected to offer solutions.

47 years ago I stared at Mt. Tangier from Cadiz, couldn’t go any farther and had to turn left.

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China’s Assistance Measures and Commitments to African Countries

China’s Assistance Measures and Commitments to African Countries:

China has reaffirmed a wide range of assistance measures and commitments to African countries, particularly within the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). These include:

Zero-Tariff Treatment: China has committed to providing zero-tariff treatment for 100% of tariff lines on products from least developed African countries that have diplomatic ties with China. This measure aims to significantly increase exports from these countries to China.

Increased Export Facilities: China is actively working to facilitate more exports of quality African products into its market. This involves signing protocols on agricultural exports, registering African food enterprises in China, and deepening cross-border e-commerce cooperation.

Support for Development: China emphasizes supporting African countries in pursuing development paths that fit their national conditions, offering assistance without attaching political conditions, and expanding market access for African goods.

Infrastructure Development: China continues to support numerous infrastructure projects across Africa, including the construction of railways (over 6,000 km), roads (over 6,000 km), ports (nearly 20), and large-scale power plants (over 80). There’s also a commitment to help implement 30 infrastructure projects and promote interconnected development between transport infrastructure and industrial parks.

Financial and Industrial Cooperation: This includes commitments to provide financing support for African small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), promote local currency settlement, and strengthen collaboration in areas like trade, energy, manufacturing, processing, and healthcare. China aims to help Africa with industrial chain cooperation, including local value chains and deep processing of critical minerals.

Capacity Building and Exchanges: China is providing training opportunities in various fields, establishing research centers, and fostering exchanges in areas like governance experience, digital technology, and traditional medicine.

The Fourth China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE):

The Fourth China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo is a major platform for economic and trade cooperation, held biennially.

Dates and Location: The Expo is being held in Changsha City, Hunan Province, China, from June 12 to 15, 2025.

Theme: The theme for this year’s expo is “China and Africa: Together Toward Modernization.”

Scale and Participation: It is attracting a significant number of attendees, with over 30,000 Chinese and African participants expected, including representatives from 53 African countries, 11 international organizations, and more than 4,700 companies.

Activities: The expo features over 20 economic and trade activities. This includes exhibitions showcasing China’s iconic projects in Africa (such as infrastructure and railway systems) and African specialties from over 40 countries.

Project Signings: A substantial number of cooperation projects are expected to be signed during the event. Reports indicate that 279 cooperation projects were submitted, with 175 of them set to be signed, involving a total worth of $11.39 billion. These projects cover various sectors, including engineering and construction, smart manufacturing, power and energy, transportation, information services, culture, and healthcare.

Objectives: The Expo aims to implement the “Ten Partnership Actions” for modernization proposed at the FOCAC Beijing Summit and to advance high-quality development in China-Africa economic and trade cooperation. It serves as a “golden bridge” for practical cooperation and a platform to build momentum for future collaborations. https://www.facebook.com/jeff.mah.5/posts/pfbid02Gr9Sc4RhuoeviURZsXNbx5SQ3ortHaQF8uFXnDktDyMsqP56BcGNJ8jJrYpGadt8l?__cft__[0]=AZWzkGe_-gaJsvFTSOVD4NjKXJY5NBWZCMcRVhtcd1NJHsi1hMR5pWtZRl807-uX56-ywxeUWZGG7fza8Nokm8JFyMW04C4RgH5bqXUyPRte9-3poMpQ0rYljUw9YFLMucrQtfeB7FOPUoB8c24PmOn7&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R

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Trends and events brewing in Africa

While headlines might be dominated by other regions, Africa is a continent of immense dynamism and is experiencing a range of significant developments across political, economic, and social spheres. Here’s a breakdown of some important trends and events brewing in Africa: https://www.facebook.com/jeff.mah.5/videos/1216646496818946/?__cft__[0]=AZVPf-OW4I6Q5OtJUn78jwizbsjRiyMRcqPUmkEBHSjVtizzYNKMnLuJP-ilf5dDvmXCVf4Euwv6iCBVDIYD0ZD2sGBg8mVwzJXkTj-7LpiKjpUNaQNw9tFBhB8l57DgDc41IieewWdBlXm2qz7GCoHiOYe0mDCQCq6FDup3jZRhhA&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R

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Africa updates

While headlines might be dominated by other regions, Africa is a continent of immense dynamism and is experiencing a range of significant developments across political, economic, and social spheres. Here’s a breakdown of some important trends and events brewing in Africa:

Political Developments

Elections and Democratic Transitions: Several African nations are either in or approaching crucial election cycles in 2025. While some countries face challenges like constitutional reforms consolidating power or post-conflict fragility (e.g., Cameroon, Togo, Central African Republic, Mali), there are also rays of hope with prospects for democratic transitions and continued electoral defeats for ruling parties in some relatively democratic nations (e.g., Malawi, Seychelles, Tanzania). The African Union (AU) also has new leadership elections in 2025, which will shape its direction on peace, security, and integration.

Persistent Conflicts and Instability: Conflict remains a major concern in several parts of the continent, with devastating humanitarian consequences.

Sudan: The civil war in Sudan continues to be a severe crisis, leading to widespread displacement and food insecurity. The conflict has caused significant economic collapse and humanitarian needs. There are ongoing efforts for mediation, but civilian protection remains a major challenge.

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): The eastern DRC continues to be plagued by violence, particularly involving the M23 rebel group and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF). The conflict has led to massive displacement and worsening food insecurity.

Sahel Region (Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger): These countries, currently under military rule, are experiencing severe restrictions on human rights and freedoms, and an escalation of violence from Islamist armed groups.

Nigeria: Northern Nigeria continues to face deadly clashes with bandits and Islamist insurgents, leading to significant fatalities and internal displacement.

Regional Integration and Pan-Africanism: The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is a major initiative poised to create the world’s largest free trade area by member countries. Its operationalization promises significant regional economic integration and harmonization. The AU’s recent admission as a permanent G20 member is also a historic milestone, giving Africa a more direct voice in global economic and climate policies. The AU has also designated 2025 as the “Year of Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” aiming to address historical injustices.

Economic Trends

Moderate Growth Amidst Challenges: African economies are projected to expand moderately in 2025, with growth rates above 5% expected in close to half of the continent’s countries. This growth is driven by increased private consumption and investment, easing supply bottlenecks, and a recovery in international tourism. However, growth is still not strong enough to significantly reduce poverty or create enough jobs for the rapidly growing youth population.

Debt and Fiscal Constraints: Many African nations continue to grapple with high debt levels and limited fiscal space due to past expenditures, stimulus measures, and ongoing essential investments. While some debt restructuring agreements have occurred, the path to fiscal sustainability remains challenging, leading to social tensions in some countries.

Rising Interest in Critical Minerals: The rising global demand for critical minerals presents a unique opportunity for resource-rich African countries to boost growth and revenue. However, there are also risks associated with governance, labor practices, and environmental degradation that need careful management.

Digital Transformation and Fintech: Africa’s digital transformation is accelerating, with a thriving fintech ecosystem attracting significant investment. Mobile banking, e-wallets, and digital payment platforms are expanding access to financial services, particularly in underserved areas.

Social Issues

Humanitarian Crises: Conflicts, extreme weather events, and economic hardships continue to fuel humanitarian crises across the continent, leading to widespread displacement, food insecurity, and health emergencies.

Youth Employment and Aspirations: A significant challenge is creating enough formal jobs for the millions of young people entering the labor market each year. There’s a growing gap between youth aspirations for good jobs and functioning public services, and often sub-optimal markets and institutions.

Gender-Based Violence and Women’s Rights: Despite progressive laws in some countries, violence against women and girls remains a serious issue. Efforts are underway to address gender-based violence and femicide, but implementation and progress can be slow.

Reparations and Historical Justice: The AU’s focus on reparations in 2025 highlights a growing international and continental conversation about addressing historical injustices stemming from colonialism, enslavement, and apartheid.

Climate Change Impacts: Africa is highly vulnerable to the intensifying impacts of climate change, with widespread extreme weather events exacerbating food insecurity and other challenges. Adaptation efforts are crucial, but international support is often slow.

In essence, Africa is a continent in constant motion, facing complex challenges while simultaneously demonstrating remarkable resilience and pursuing ambitious goals for economic development, regional integration, and social justice. While the focus of global news may shift, these underlying developments in Africa are profoundly important and will continue to shape the continent’s future.

On May 26, 2025, Wang Yi had a group meeting with diplomatic envoys of African countries to China in Beijing and jointly celebrated Africa Day. Ambassadors or Chargés d’affaires of more than 50 African countries to China, as well as representatives of the African Union to China, among others, were present.

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The African Continental Free Trade Area

1-1-21 The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement will create the largest free trade area in the world measured by the number of countries participating. The pact connects 1.3 billion people across 55 countries with a combined gross domestic product (GDP) valued at US$3.4 trillion. It has the potential to lift 30 million people out of extreme poverty, but achieving its full potential will depend on putting in place significant policy reforms and trade facilitation measures.