We turn now to West Africa, where political uncertainty, shifting alliances and policy changes continue to shape the region. In Burkina Faso, supporters have rallied in Ouagadougou following reports of a thwarted coup attempt, highlighting ongoing instability in the Sahel. At the same time, Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger are asserting a more defiant stance internationally, including retaliatory travel restrictions against U.S. nationals. Meanwhile, Guinea's Supreme Court has confirmed Mamady Doumbouya's election victory, even as ECOWAS warns against prolonged military-led transitions elsewhere in the region. To unpack these developments, is Political Scientist and Conflict Resolution expert, Dr David Matsanga.
POSSIBLE QUESTIONS
* Let's start in Burkina Faso - supporters have taken to the streets in Ouagadougou following reports of an attempted coup; what does this tell us about the current balance of power and public sentiment in the country?
* More broadly in the Sahel, Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger appear increasingly aligned, both politically and militarily; how significant is this bloc, and how might it reshape regional security dynamics?
* These same countries have also imposed retaliatory travel bans on U.S. nationals - what message are they sending to Western powers, and how could this affect diplomatic and economic relations?
* Turning to Guinea, the Supreme Court has confirmed Mamady Doumbouya's election victory; does this ruling settle questions of legitimacy, or are deeper political challenges still unresolved?
* ECOWAS has rejected the transition process in Guinea-Bissau and warned of possible sanctions; is the regional body losing influence, or is it recalibrating its approach to military-led governments?
* How do these repeated tensions between ECOWAS and transitional authorities affect regional integration and collective security in West Africa?
* Beyond politics, Cape Verde has ended visa-on-arrival access for travellers from 96 countries - what are the possible economic and diplomatic implications of this decision for a tourism-dependent economy?
* Ghana is being positioned as a leader in modernising short-sea shipping in West Africa; why is this development important for regional trade and economic integration?
* Finally, Togo has expanded its nuclear safety framework through new international accords - how significant is this step, and what does it signal about the region's engagement with global governance standards?