Indian Ocean Region (IOR) state of Kenya has a professional standing military that has been engaged in several operations including peace keeping and counter-terrorism for many years. However, last week in a major setback Kenya’s military chief, Francis Ogolla, died in a helicopter crash in the western part of the country, one year after he was appointed. Kenya’s government has sent a team to investigate the helicopter crash that also killed other senior military officers of Kenya. Meanwhile, Seychelles in a move that would create discomfort in India, has decided to expand security ties with China in IOR. It expects a donation of a new patrol ship from China in October. While major South African city of Johannesburg has been rocked by protests last week over power cuts in what could impact fortunes of ANC in elections, UK and South Africa ties may be affected by UK’s terror alert for the African state. Meanwhile Oman Sultan notwithstanding natural calamity in UAE, is travelling to the neighbouring country, which is expected to boost investment and business ties.
Kenyan military chief dies in helicopter crash, says president
CNN | 19th April 2024
Kenya’s military chief, Francis Ogolla, died in a helicopter crash in the western part of the country on Thursday (April 18), President William Ruto announced in a televised address. The helicopter crashed shortly after take-off on Thursday afternoon local time, killing Ogolla and nine other members of the military, Ruto said. Two people survived the crash, he added. “I am deeply saddened to announce the passing on of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces,” he said.
Francis Ogolla: Kenya investigates crash that killed military chief
BBC | 20th April 2024
Kenya’s government has sent a team to investigate the helicopter crash that killed military chief Gen Francis Ogolla and nine others. It was not immediately clear what caused the crash.
Seychelles to receive donation of patrol ship from China
Seychelles News Agency | 21st April 2024
Seychelles expects a donation of a new patrol ship from China in October this year, which will help in combatting maritime crimes, according to a top official. Seychelles’ Minister for Internal Affairs, Errol Fonseka, announced during a reception on Friday on board the ETF 18, one of the three boats from the 45th Chinese Naval Escort Taskforce docked in Port Victoria. Fonseka described this donation from China as a continuation of the excellent Sino-Seychelles relationship.
HM’s state visit to UAE signals Economic surge for both nations
Times of Oman | 22nd April 2024
The private sectors of Oman and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are brimming with optimism ahead of the upcoming state visit of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to the UAE on Monday. Anticipation runs high as both nations expect this visit to pave the way for a surge in trade and investment opportunities across various sectors, fostering greater economic cooperation. Business leaders from both countries foresee an era of enhanced economic and investment collaboration, aimed at fortifying the existing partnership and fostering a conducive business environment for investors.
UK terror warning for South Africa – ANC responds
Club of Mozambique | 19th April 2024
The United Kingdom (UK) embassy issued a terrorism alert for South Africa and its citizens who are in or planning to travel to South Africa; however, Pretoria says it’s waiting for the foreign office to provide credible proof, which it has failed to do. Published on its official website, the UK embassy warned, “terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in South Africa”. It added that the main threat is from individuals who may have been inspired by terrorist groups, including Daesh (ISIS), and who may carry out ‘lone actor’ attacks.
South Africa: Power Outage Sparks Days of Protest in Joburg
All Africa.Com | 19th April 2024
Protests started on Tuesday (April 16), culminating with major roads to Orlando East, Pennyville, and Noordgesig being blocked on Thursday (April 18). On Tuesday (April 16) residents in Noordgesig started to protest about a prolonged power outage that had started on the Sunday. On Wednesday the protest spread to other areas. By Thursday (April 18) about 100 residents had blocked major roads with rocks, tree trunks and burning tyres, affecting access to Orlando East, Pennyville and Noordgesig. Johannesburg Metro Police spokesperson Xolani Fihla said passing vehicles had been stoned.
