Africa
Ivory Coast Threatens to Raise Cocoa Price Over US Tariffs

Impact of US Tariffs on Ivory Coast’s Cocoa Industry
Ivory Coast, the world’s largest producer of cocoa, is considering measures to increase the price of cocoa if the US imposes proposed tariffs. The country’s agriculture minister, Kobenan Kouassi Adjoumani, stated that if the tariffs go into effect, Ivory Coast will take steps to make cocoa more expensive for US consumers.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Background on the Tariffs
The Trump administration recently announced tariffs of 21% on Ivory Coast, the highest in West Africa, as part of a broader set of targeted duties on dozens of countries. Although the tariffs have been paused for 90 days, the Ivory Coast government is seeking reconsideration. The country exports between 200,000 and 300,000 metric tons of cocoa to the US each year, according to data from the Coffee and Cocoa Council (CCC).
Potential Measures to Increase Cocoa Prices
Kouassi mentioned that Ivory Coast could raise export taxes on cocoa to earn more revenue, making the product more expensive for consumers. However, it is essential to note that Ivory Coast does not have the ability to set the price for cocoa, as it is determined by the global market. The potential measures to increase cocoa prices could have a significant impact on the global cocoa market and US consumers.
Seeking Alternative Markets
In response to the proposed tariffs, Ivory Coast is seeking stronger ties with the European Union (EU) to ensure that its products can still be exported if they are not accepted in the US. Kouassi stated that the EU can "recover all of them" if the US does not accept Ivory Coast’s products. This move aims to diversify the country’s export markets and reduce its dependence on the US.
Conclusion
The proposed US tariffs on Ivory Coast’s cocoa industry could have significant consequences for both the country and US consumers. If the tariffs go into effect, Ivory Coast may take measures to increase the price of cocoa, which could lead to higher prices for consumers. The country’s efforts to seek alternative markets, such as the EU, demonstrate its determination to maintain its position as the world’s largest cocoa producer and protect its economy. Ultimately, the outcome of the tariff situation will have a significant impact on the global cocoa market and the livelihoods of cocoa farmers in Ivory Coast.
Africa
Aliou Cisse aims to restore Libya’s fortunes.

Building Success: Aliou Cisse’s Mission in Libya
Introduction
Despite reports that he joined as one of the best-paid international coaches in Africa, Cisse insists he is not a hired gun, but someone who can lay the foundations for success.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!In Senegal, he spent a decade shaping a generation that would go on to secure the country’s first senior continental title.
He hopes to have a similar impact in Libya after agreeing an initial two-year deal.
“This country is full of talent and potential,” he said. “My job is to put Libyan football in the place it deserves.
“I am a man of a project, a builder of generations. In Senegal I had a fruitful 10-year project.
“I’m full of passion and confidence that I will repeat the same thing here.”
Challenges in Libyan Football
Libya have not qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) since 2012 and Cisse has already seen several aspects which can be improved.
“The players possess undeniable technical skills and there’s an abundance of raw talent,” he said.
“What’s lacking, however, is experience and improved game management.
“Talent alone isn’t enough at the African level – we need more commitment, fighting spirit, confidence and discipline to reach our goals.”
Areas for Improvement
- Enhancing game management skills
- Building experience among players
- Fostering commitment, fighting spirit, confidence, and discipline
Conclusion
Aliou Cisse’s mission in Libya goes beyond just coaching a team – it’s about building a legacy of success and nurturing the talents of the future. With his track record in Senegal, there’s no doubt that he has the passion and determination to elevate Libyan football to new heights. Through hard work, dedication, and a focus on key areas for improvement, Cisse aims to turn the tide for Libyan football and lead the national team to glory once again.
Africa
Report of Child’s Rape Sparks Outrage in South Africa

The Protesters Demand Justice for Cwecwe: A Fight Against Sexual Violence in South Africa
The Outrage in Matatiele
Protesters in the small town of Matatiele, South Africa, are demanding justice for a 7-year-old girl known as Cwecwe, who was allegedly raped at Bergview College. The community is in uproar following videos posted online by the girl’s mother, Thandekile Mtshizana, detailing the assault.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!A Culture of Shame and Silence
- Demonstrators are calling for the closure of the school and threatening to burn it down.
- The case has ignited a national conversation about sexual violence in South Africa.
- Women’s rights activists criticize the government’s response to such crimes.
The Fight for Justice
Thapelo Monareng, a protester in Matatiele, expressed the community’s frustration, stating, “Enough is enough.” The police investigation into the case is ongoing but has faced challenges.
A National Crisis
South Africa has a high rate of reported rape cases, with many going unsolved. The Cwecwe case has brought attention to the need for systemic change in addressing gender-based violence.
Standing Up Against Injustice
Thabang Kuali, a traditional leader in Matatiele, hopes that Cwecwe’s case will shift societal attitudes towards violence against women. The community’s response to the incident has been unprecedented.
Seeking Accountability
- Bergview College officials have not commented on the allegations.
- Cwecwe’s mother remains determined to seek justice for her daughter.
- The case has prompted calls for government action on sexual violence.
A Mother’s Fight
Thandekile Mtshizana, a police officer, has been vocal about her daughter’s ordeal. She recalls her own experience with rape and is determined to ensure a different outcome for her child.
Empowering Voices
By sharing her story, Mrs. Mtshizana aims to empower other survivors and hold perpetrators accountable. Her bravery has inspired a movement for change.
Hope for the Future
Despite the trauma, Cwecwe’s family remains hopeful for her recovery. They continue to advocate for justice and stand in solidarity with other survivors of sexual violence.
Africa
Charity connected to Prince Harry acknowledges human rights violations in Congo-Brazzaville.

Prince Harry-Linked Conservation Charity Admits Human Rights Abuses in Congo-Brazzaville
Introduction
A major conservation charity linked to Prince Harry has admitted that human rights abuses were committed by its rangers in Congo-Brazzaville, following an independent review into allegations made by members of the Baka community against African Parks rangers.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Allegations of Abuse
- In a report published last year by the British newspaper the Mail on Sunday, community members accused African Parks rangers of beating, waterboarding and raping locals to stop them from accessing their ancestral forests, which are now in a conservation area.
- Despite commissioning an independent review, African Parks has not made the findings public, only acknowledging that human rights abuses occurred in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park.
Independent Review
The review, carried out by Omnia Strategy LLP, a London-based law firm, was handed directly to African Parks. In a statement, Omnia said it has been investigating the alleged abuse in Odzala-Kokoua since December 2023.
Findings and Recommendations
- The findings and recommendations of the review were sent directly to African Parks and have not been made public.
- The BBC reached out to Omnia and Doughty Street Chambers for comment but they declined to provide additional information.
Response from African Parks
African Parks stated that it has improved its safeguarding processes in the past five years and has put in place additional measures to support the Baka communities.
Prince Harry’s Involvement
Prince Harry sits on the board of African Parks and has been involved with the charity since 2016. The BBC has requested comment from Prince Harry regarding the allegations.
Criticism from Survival International
The charity Survival International criticized African Park’s decision not to make the findings public and stated that previous approaches have not prevented abuses in the past.
Conclusion
African Parks, one of Africa’s largest conservation charities, manages protected areas in 13 African countries. The charity’s funders include high-profile donors such as the European Union and prominent individuals.
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