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Extemp: Africa

Update: Famine in Africa

Previous Questions

From the 2024 Tournament of Champions (TOC) quarterfinals on Africa

  • How should the US respond to drought in East Africa?
  • What reforms can South Africa implement to provide additional protection for whistleblowers?
  • What is next for Cameroon’s separatist conflict?
  • Can the US do more to protect LGBTQ rights in Uganda?
  • Have security concerns abated enough for Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado LNG project to resume?
  • What should Kenya prioritize in disbursement of drought relief funds?

From the September 2023 NFHS Extemp Topics

  • What must West African states do to return Niger’s democratic government to power?
  • What steps must Libyan factions take to bring violence to an end there?
  • What steps must be taken to resolve the water dispute between Iran and Afghanistan?

From the UIL District I 2024 Extemp Topics

  • What impacts is the world still experiencing from the coronavirus pandemic?
  • How is China driving America’s expanded engagement with Africa?
  • Why do outbreaks of violence and instability continue in western states of Africa?
  • What challenges are being addressed by the Mercy Corp in the Middle East?

From the UIL September 2024 Practice Extemp Topics

  • How should neighboring Central African countries respond to the coup in Gabon?
  • Will the departure of peacekeeping forces from Mali lead to increased terror attacks?
  • Should France pull all troops from Niger?
  • Is genocide still a cause for concern in Sudan?

Northwestern

  • Did the US-Africa Leaders Summit provide a good baseline for US relations with African states?
  • What are the likely long-term effects of rising authoritarianism in Tunisia?
  • Can Somalia’s government maintain the gains it has achieved against al-Shabaab?
  • How will the Biden Administration’s proposed security aid to West Africa impact terrorism in the region?
  • Given recent legal roadblocks, will the Namibian Supreme Court uphold LGBTQ+ rights?
  • Will peace talks between the Ethiopian government and Oromo Liberation Army be successful?
  • Should the US intervene in Sudan beyond evacuations?
  • What should Nigerian President Bola Tinubu prioritize first in office?
  • Should the UN withdraw its peacekeeping force from Mali?
  • Will Kamala Harris’s recent African trip have a lasting impact on American business interests on the continent?
  • Will Sudanese factions allow international aid to reach those in need?
  • Should the US do more to support Libya in its attempts to hold elections?
  • What steps should the African Union take to combat corruption in its member states?
  • What more should be done to assist Chad in its response to the recent influx of Sudanese refugees?
  • What should the UN Security Council do to support the East African Community’s intervention in the DRC?
  • Can Saudi Arabia be an honest broker between the RSF and the Sudanese government?
  • Can Tunisia pursue closer relations with China without jeopardizing their relationship with the US?
  • Will Sudan, Ethiopia, and Egypt come to an agreement on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam?

Cameroon

Cameroon is currently facing multiple complex humanitarian crises driven by ongoing violence, political instability, and the effects of climate change.

The main issues are:

The Anglophone Crisis: Since 2016, there has been an armed conflict in the English-speaking Northwest and Southwest regions between separatist groups seeking independence and government forces. This has led to widespread violence, human rights abuses, and the displacement of over 700,000 people.

Boko Haram Insurgency: In the Far North region, the Islamist armed group Boko Haram continues to carry out attacks and abductions, causing further displacement and insecurity.

Refugee Crisis: Cameroon hosts over 460,000 refugees, mainly from the Central African Republic and Nigeria, putting additional strain on limited resources and services.

Political Tensions: Political opposition and dissent have been met with repression and human rights violations by the government, including arbitrary arrests and restrictions on freedom of expression.

Climate-Related Challenges: Cameroon is vulnerable to climate shocks such as floods and droughts, which exacerbate food insecurity, malnutrition, and poverty.

International Response and Potential Actions:

  • Diplomatic pressure on the Cameroonian government to engage in dialogue with separatist groups and address the root causes of the Anglophone Crisis.
  • Increased humanitarian aid to support displaced populations, refugees, and host communities affected by the various crises.
  • Strengthening the capacity of local civil society organizations and community leaders to provide assistance and promote peace.
  • Supporting independent investigations into human rights abuses and pushing for accountability.
  • Encouraging regional and international mediation efforts to facilitate negotiations between the government and opposition groups.
  • Providing technical and financial assistance to help Cameroon adapt to climate change and build resilience.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Here are some updates on the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and potential US involvement as of May 2024:

As for what the US might do, it’s difficult to predict specific actions. However, the US has a vested interest in stability in the region. U.S. relations with the D.R.C. are strong, and U.S. foreign policy in the D.R.C. is focused on helping the country become a nation that is stable and democratic, at peace with its neighbors, extends state authority across its territory, and provides for the basic needs of its citizens.

The US may continue to provide diplomatic support and potentially increase humanitarian aid in response to the escalating conflict.

Niger

Should French troops withdraw from Niger?

  1. Pros:
    1. Respecting Niger’s sovereignty: The withdrawal aligns with the demands of Niger’s military junta, which had called for the removal of French forces, citing a desire for greater national sovereignty. This move avoids potential conflict and respects Niger’s autonomy over its internal affairs. (France begins withdrawing its troops from Niger)
    2. Reducing anti-French sentiment: The presence of French troops had fueled anti-French sentiment among some Nigeriens, who viewed it as a remnant of colonial influence. Their departure could help ease these tensions and potentially improve France’s relations with Niger in the long term. (Niger coup: Why some people want Russia in and France out)
    3. Avoiding potential conflict: By complying with the junta’s demands, France avoids the risk of escalating tensions or potential armed confrontation with Niger’s new rulers, which could have destabilized the region further. (France to depart post-coup Niger, withdrawing troops and diplomats)

    Cons:

    1. Security vacuum and increased instability: The withdrawal of French troops, who were assisting in counterterrorism operations, could create a security vacuum and potentially embolden jihadist groups operating in the region. This could lead to increased instability and violence in Niger and neighboring countries. (France’s withdrawal from Niger could jeopardize counterterrorism operations in the Sahel)
    2. Diminished French influence: The withdrawal represents a significant loss of influence for France in the Sahel region, where it has long been a major player. This could pave the way for other powers, such as Russia or China, to increase their presence and challenge French interests. (What will France’s troop withdrawal mean for Niger?)
    3. Setback for counterterrorism efforts: The departure of French troops, who were part of a broader international effort to combat terrorism in the Sahel, could hamper counterterrorism operations and allow jihadist groups to gain ground in the region. (France completes

Sudan

Here are some updates on the situation in Sudan and potential US involvement as of May 2024:

As for what the US might do, it’s difficult to predict specific actions. However, the US has a vested interest in stability in the region. The US may continue to provide diplomatic support and potentially increase humanitarian aid in response to the escalating conflict. The US may also continue to pressure regional actors to de-escalate the situation.

Mali

There are no direct mentions of peacekeeping troops being deployed in Maui.

However, I can provide some general pros and cons of deploying peacekeeping troops based on the information about United Nations peacekeeping operations:

Pros:

  1. Peacekeepers can help provide security, stabilization, and protection for civilians in crisis situations. As mentioned in this article, the military is assisting with search and rescue, transportation of supplies, and restoring power in Maui.
  2. Peacekeepers can support the delivery of humanitarian aid and basic public services in areas where government authorities or aid agencies have difficulty operating, as noted in this analysis.
  3. Peacekeeping operations can foster partnerships and capacity-building opportunities for contributing countries, as outlined in this UN document.

Cons:

  1. Deploying peacekeepers can be costly and resource-intensive, as evidenced by the $1.2 billion budget for the UN mission in Mali (MINUSMA), mentioned in this article.
  2. Peacekeepers may face challenges in maintaining neutrality and avoiding being drawn into conflicts, as highlighted in this analysis on the failures of peacekeeping missions.
  3. There have been instances of misconduct and disciplinary issues among peacekeepers, such as sexual exploitation and harassment, as noted in this article.
  4. The effectiveness of peacekeeping operations can be limited if there is no genuine peace to keep or if the parties involved are unwilling to cooperate, as discussed in this analysis.

Nigeria

Uganda

Ultimately, a multi-pronged approach of political, economic, and humanitarian pressure may be needed to push Uganda to respect the rights of LGBTQ+ people and rescind this draconian law. The U.S. should lead this effort while working closely with Ugandan activists to ensure their safety and empower their struggle for equality.

South Africa Drought

Here are some updates on the drought in southern Africa and potential foreign responses as of May 2024:

As for what foreign countries might do, it’s difficult to predict specific actions. However, foreign aid is likely to play a crucial role in responding to the crisis. Foreign countries may provide humanitarian assistance, including food aid and support for water access. They may also provide financial support to help affected countries cope with the impacts of the drought.

China in Africa

The geopolitical competition between the United States and China in Africa has intensified in recent years, with both countries vying for influence, resources, and strategic partnerships on the continent. China’s growing presence in Africa poses several threats to U.S. interests, as Beijing seeks to secure critical minerals, expand its military footprint, and gain political and economic leverage.

China’s engagement with Africa has grown significantly since the early 2000s, particularly through the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China has become Africa’s largest trading partner and a major investor in infrastructure projects, often providing loans and financing with fewer conditions compared to Western countries 1.

The United States has traditionally been a significant player in Africa, focusing on security, democracy, and development.

However, China’s increasing influence has led to concerns about the erosion of U.S. soft power and the potential for African countries to align more closely with Beijing 2.

Reasons China is a Threat to the U.S. in Africa

  1. Critical Minerals: Africa is rich in critical minerals essential for clean energy technologies and defense industries. China has secured a dominant position in the mining and processing of these minerals, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia 3. This monopoly threatens U.S. supply chains and national security, as the U.S. seeks to reduce its reliance on China for critical minerals 4.
  2. Military Presence: China established its first overseas military base in Djibouti in 2017 and is reportedly considering additional bases in West Africa 5. These bases could enable China to project power in the region, potentially threatening U.S. interests and security 6.
  3. Debt Trap Diplomacy: China’s lending practices in Africa have been criticized as “debt trap diplomacy,” with some countries struggling to repay loans and facing the risk of losing control over strategic assets 7. This leverage could allow China to gain political and economic concessions, undermining U.S. influence 8.
  4. Technology and AI: China is investing heavily in Africa’s digital infrastructure and AI development, raising concerns about data security and the spread of authoritarian surveillance practices 9. The U.S. is competing to offer alternative partnerships and promote democratic values in the tech sector.

Russia in Africa

  1. Russia is expanding its influence in Africa through military cooperation agreements, arms sales, deployment of mercenaries (like the Wagner Group, now rebranded as the Africa Corps), and pursuit of military bases, particularly in the Sahel region, Libya, and the Horn of Africa. This challenges US interests and influence on the continent. (1, 2, 3, 8, 15)
  2. Russia is exploiting political instability, coups, and anti-Western sentiment in African countries to gain a foothold, often at the expense of traditional Western partners like France and the US. This is particularly evident in the Sahel region (Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger) and the Central African Republic. (4, 7, 12, 17, 19)
  3. Russia is using its presence in Africa to secure access to natural resources, particularly critical minerals, often through opaque deals with local governments. This could undermine US efforts to diversify its supply chains and reduce dependence on China. (5, 11, 14)
  4. Russia is employing disinformation campaigns and election interference to manipulate African politics and public opinion in its favor, often targeting the US and its allies. (6, 10)
  5. The US is struggling to maintain its influence and partnerships in Africa amid Russia’s aggressive outreach and needs to rethink its approach to prioritize sustained engagement, more resources, and a rebalanced strategy that emphasizes democracy and security cooperation. (9, 13, 14, 16)
  6. Russia’s growing presence in Africa, particularly in the Mediterranean and Red Sea regions, could threaten US and NATO security interests by allowing Russia to project power and challenge Western dominance. (18)
  7. The competition between Russia and the US in Africa risks triggering proxy wars and further destabilizing the continent, which is already grappling with widespread corruption, violent conflicts, and coups. (20)

ISIS/Terrorism

These are the major issues related to terrorism in Africa and how they compete with U.S. interests:

  1. Geographical Spread and Increasing Threat of Terrorism in Africa

The Global Terrorism Index 2024 report highlights that the epicenter of terrorism has shifted from the Middle East to the Central Sahel region of sub-Saharan Africa, which now accounts for over half of all deaths from terrorism globally. Terrorist groups like Islamic State (IS) affiliates and Al-Qaeda are expanding their reach across Africa, with the Sahel being the most impacted region.

  1. Instability and Democratic Backsliding in the Sahel

Recent coups and the rise of military juntas in countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have led to a reduction in U.S. counterterrorism cooperation and the expulsion of U.S. troops from key bases. This has degraded the U.S. ability to conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations against terrorist groups in the region. Russia has stepped in to fill this vacuum, providing military support to the juntas through the Wagner Group (now rebranded as Africa Corps).

  1. Great Power Competition and Russia’s Increasing Influence

As the U.S. withdraws from parts of Africa due to instability, Russia is strengthening its counterterrorism and defense cooperation with littoral West African countries like Côte d’Ivoire and Benin. This is part of Russia’s broader strategy to gain influence and potentially secure naval bases in the region, which could facilitate greater cooperation with Iran.

  1. Need for Comprehensive Counterterrorism Approach

There is a growing recognition that a purely military approach is insufficient to counter terrorism in Africa. The African Union Peace and Security Council and the United Nations have emphasized the importance of addressing root causes like poverty, political instability, and underdevelopment through peacebuilding, diplomacy, and development efforts.

  1. Evolving Terrorist Tactics and Use of Technology

Terrorist groups in Africa are increasingly using new technologies like cryptocurrencies for financing, social media for recruitment and propaganda, and drones for surveillance and attacks. This poses new challenges for counterterrorism efforts and requires developing guiding principles on regulating emerging technologies. 

  1. Coordination and Capacity Building Challenges

While the U.S. and other international partners have provided counterterrorism assistance to African countries, there is a need for greater coordination, resource support, and capacity building at the regional and national levels. This includes strengthening judicial, law enforcement, and border security capabilities to effectively combat terrorism.

In summary, the growing threat of terrorism in Africa, particularly in the Sahel region, is competing with U.S. interests in counterterrorism, regional stability, and great power competition with Russia. Addressing this complex challenge requires a comprehensive approach that combines military efforts with diplomacy, development, and capacity building while navigating the changing geopolitical landscape in Africa.

Coups

Confirmed coup attempts in 2024:

  1. Democratic Republic of the Congo: A failed coup attempt took place on May 19, 2024, led by Christian Malanga, a U.S.-based Congolese politician. The attempt was thwarted by security forces.

Likely upcoming coup attempts in 2024:

  1. Burkina Faso: The junta appears increasingly unstable, and another coup is probable in the next year.
  2. Niger: The junta appears increasingly unstable, and another coup is probable in the next year.
  3. Guinea: The junta appears increasingly unstable, and another coup is probable in the next year.
  4. Cameroon: The political system around 90-year-old President Paul Biya appears increasingly paralyzed by internal rivalries. A health scare or permanent incapacitation would leave a power vacuum that military strongmen would be quick to fill.
  5. Tunisia: Tunisian President Kaïs Saïed is becoming ever more unpopular and isolated, and a soft coup could very well push him out of power before the December 2024 elections.

Other countries at risk of coups in 2024:

  • Madagascar, which has just held controversial elections
  • Congo (Brazzaville), where the succession plans of the longstanding president remain unclear
  • Equatorial Guinea, where the succession plans of the longstanding president remain unclear
  • Uganda, where the succession plans of the longstanding president remain unclear

Peacekeeping

These are the major issues related to peacekeeping in Africa:

  1. Failure of UN peacekeeping missions to achieve their goals: According to this report from GIS Reports, UN peacekeeping missions in Africa have largely failed to stabilize the continent. Many African governments are considering alternative security options due to the perceived ineffectiveness of UN missions.
  2. Lack of consent from host countries: This article from Diplomacy Now highlights that three African governments – Mali, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sudan – ordered UN peacekeepers to leave in 2023, despite ongoing conflicts, due to a deterioration of consent from host countries.
  3. Increasing attacks on peacekeepers: General Birame Diop from the UN Department of Peace Operations notes that being a peacekeeper in Africa has become much more dangerous, with 40% of UN peacekeeping operations facing attacks from armed groups and disinformation campaigns targeting the missions.
  4. Funding challenges: The UN Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations emphasizes the need for optimal human and financial resources for peacekeeping missions, with Member States making contributions in full, on time, and without conditions.
  5. Geopolitical tensions and divisions: The head of UN Peacekeeping, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, states that peacekeeping missions are operating under more challenging political and security conditions due to increased geopolitical tensions, particularly divisions in the Security Council.
  6. Calls for alternative security approaches: The African Union and some African countries are calling for African actors to lead security efforts on the continent, with the AU and regional bodies overseeing peace and stabilization initiatives instead of UN-led missions.
  7. Proliferation of illicit weapons: The head of the UN peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic urges greater support to stem the proliferation of deadly illicit weapons, which pose a threat to both civilians and peacekeepers.
  8. Withdrawal of peacekeeping missions: Reports indicate that the UN peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) will completely withdraw from the country by the end of 2024, following calls from the Congolese government.

US-Africa Relations

  1. The Biden administration is working to repair and strengthen ties with African nations after relations frayed during the Trump presidency. Key efforts include the U.S. Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa released in 2022, the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in December 2022, and Kenyan President William Ruto’s state visit in May 2024. (Source)
  2. The U.S. is increasing trade and investment in Africa, particularly through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The landmark agreement presents opportunities for the U.S. to tap into Africa’s growing consumer base and accelerate investment. (Source)
  3. The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a preferential trade program allowing duty-free exports from sub-Saharan Africa to the U.S., is set to expire in 2025. U.S. lawmakers have introduced legislation to extend AGOA through 2041 to provide stability and predictability for African countries. (Source 1, Source 2)
  4. The U.S. is strengthening counterterrorism and defense cooperation with littoral West African countries as it plans its withdrawal from Niger. This includes delivering military equipment and exploring options for drone basing in countries like Côte d’Ivoire, Benin, and Ghana. (Source)
  5. The U.S. is working to counter Russian and Chinese influence in Africa, particularly in the infrastructure and critical minerals sectors. The U.S. plans to invest in African infrastructure projects to boost trade, create jobs, and help Africa compete globally. (Source 1, Source 2)
  6. The U.S. is conducting joint military exercises with African partners, such as Justified Accord 2024, to build readiness, prepare for UN and AU-mandated missions, and increase interoperability for humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and crisis response. (Source)
  7. The U.S. is engaging with the African diaspora through initiatives like the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement and the African Diaspora Investment Symposium (ADIS). (Source)
  8. The U.S. is working to strengthen bilateral relations with key African partners, such as Nigeria, through the U.S.-Nigeria Binational Commission and the U.S.-Nigeria Open Skies Air Transport Agreement. (Source 1, Source 2

Quick list of consolidated topics to prep

  • US Response to Drought in East Africa
  • Reforms for Whistleblower Protection in South Africa
  • Cameroon’s Separatist Conflict
  • US Protection of LGBTQ Rights in Uganda
  • Security Concerns for Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado LNG Project
  • Kenya’s Priorities in Drought Relief Fund Disbursement
  • Restoring Democratic Government in Niger
  • Ending Violence in Libya
  • Resolving the Water Dispute Between Iran and Afghanistan
  • World Impacts of the Coronavirus Pandemic
  • China’s Influence on US Engagement with Africa
  • Violence and Instability in Western Africa
  • Challenges Faced by Mercy Corp in the Middle East
  • Response to the Coup in Gabon by Central African Countries
  • Peacekeeping Forces Departure from Mali and Terror Attack Risks
  • France’s Troop Presence in Niger
  • Genocide Concerns in Sudan
  • US-Africa Leaders Summit and US-African Relations
  • Rising Authoritarianism in Tunisia
  • Somalia’s Gains Against al-Shabaab
  • Impact of Biden Administration’s Security Aid to West Africa on Terrorism
  • Namibian Supreme Court and LGBTQ+ Rights
  • Peace Talks Between Ethiopian Government and Oromo Liberation Army
  • US Intervention in Sudan Beyond Evacuations
  • Priorities for Nigerian President Bola Tinubu
  • UN Peacekeeping Force Withdrawal from Mali
  • Impact of Kamala Harris’s African Trip on American Business Interests
  • International Aid Access in Sudan
  • US Support for Libya’s Elections
  • Combatting Corruption in the African Union
  • Assisting Chad with Sudanese Refugees
  • UN Security Council Support for East African Community in DRC
  • Saudi Arabia’s Role in Sudanese Conflict Mediation
  • Tunisia’s Relations with China and the US
  • Agreement on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam

 

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