Central African Republic
Wagner's Valery Zakharov makes discreet return to Bangui

Central African Republic
Diamond embargo to be raised in decisive Dubai meeting

The country's diamond industry is hoping that a decade-long embargo on its stones will be partially or fully lifted as a result of the Kimberley Process plenary meeting being held this week in the UAE.

Central African Republic
Sant'Egidio movement sets up talks between armed group MPC and Bangui

A member of the MPC and a close associate of President Touadéra met in Rome this month at the invitation of the Sant'Egidio peace organisation. It is hoped these talks will result in the return of imprisoned rebel leader Mahamat Al-Khatim.

Central African Republic
Paris mulls resuming financial aid to Bangui

France may restore financial aid to the Central African Republic, four years after freezing it because of the influence of the Russian paramilitary firm Wagner in Bangui. An agreement due to be signed by the two states later this year would release €10m.

Central African Republic
US citizens still being turned back at Bangui airport

The US embassy in Bangui appears impotent in the face of a spate of US citizens being denied entry upon arrival at the CAR capital's airport.

Palace Intrigues
Emmanuel Macron, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, Dan Gertler, Faustin-Archange Touadéra

Intrigues big and small: every Thursday, Africa Intelligence takes a peek into the corridors of power in Africa and beyond.

FranceMacron's new ‘Mr Africa' to start in January

GabonOmer Laviv, Dan Gertler's go-between with Oligui Nguema

Central African RepublicRussian deputy defence minister misses Touadéra on Bangui stopover

LibyaParis embassy diplomat chastised by Quai d'Orsay

Central African Republic, Sudan
Wagner suspected of backing Hemeti from CAR

The US and French intelligence services believe the Russian paramilitary group has sent light weapons and anti-aircraft guns from the Central African Republic to Sudan's Rapid Support Forces.

Spotlight | Central African Republic, Russia
Moscow-Bangui relations hit rough patch

Relations between Russia and the Central African Republic remain strong, yet they've grown tense in recent weeks. Moscow, deprived of its official representatives in the country, is now working in the dark.