March 2025 FIRE Portfolio Update: Trump Crashes the Economy

Niger's military junta plans to nationalise the French-owned uranium company Somaïr, accused of irresponsible practices, as part of its effort to gain greater control over local mineral resources and reduce ties with France, moving closer to Russia. This move follows a history of colonial agreements that many in Niger view as ongoing domination, raising concerns over job security and export earnings in the mining sector. Need More Context? 🔎

Training sessions for the Senegalese women's basketball team in the US have been cancelled after several squad members were denied visas, prompting Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko to shift preparations to Dakar. This visa denial coincides with reports of upcoming US travel restrictions affecting 25 African countries, including Senegal, amid concerns over visa overstays and national security. Need More Context? 🔎

Teklemariam BekitEditor, BBC TigrinyaAFP via Getty ImagesFor many Eritreans, the hopes of the early days of the presidency of Isaias (left in 1994) have been dashed 30 years laterOnce hailed as a reformist leader, Eritrea's president Isaias Afwerki has ruled for over 32 years without ever holding elections, consolidating power at his rural residence while hopes for democracy faded after his initial promises in the 1990s. Following the 2001 crackdown on dissent, including the arrest...

The national Department of Public Works' attempt to evict unlawfully occupying residents from a Cape Town CBD building has faced another delay, as it requested a postponement for further consultations with the City of Cape Town and Ndifuna Ukwazi. This development highlights ongoing tensions regarding land use and housing in the area. Need More Context? 🔎

Residents unlawfully occupying a building in Cape Town's CBD face potential eviction if the Western Cape High Court grants an order to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure. They warn that such an action would leave them homeless, emphasizing the urgent need for alternative accommodation. Need More Context? 🔎

Julius Malema, a controversial South African politician, has been denied entry to the UK due to being deemed "non-conducive to the public good," with the Home Office citing his support for Hamas and threats against white people as reasons. This marks the second rejection in two months, with no right of appeal, prompting his party, the Economic Freedom Fighters, to label the decision as "cowardice." Need More Context? 🔎