The growing threat of Boko Haram has regional implications and led to a conference in Paris with the leaders of Nigeria, Cameroon and Chad participating. The conference is representative of the burgeoning militarization of the continent led by the Pentagon and NATO forces and does not augur well for the long-term security of Africa’s people

With the abduction of the Nigerian girls, the government of President Goodluck Jonathan has refused to exchange the girls for imprisoned Boko Haram members. Whilst the government has been in dialogue with some sect members in regards to amnesty and clemency, it seems the insurgency brings political gains to the government

On this African liberation day, we, the undersigned, note with grave concern the continent-wide deepening crisis including, growing militarism, the crisis in democracy, an expanding neoliberal economic order, deepening patriarchy, homophobia, transphobia and heterosexism, amongst others.

A coalition of organisations and human rights defenders working to advance human and peoples’ rights welcomes the adoption of a Resolution on Protection Against Violence and other Human Rights Violations Against Persons on the Basis of their Real or Imputed Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity' by the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights at its 55th session held in Luanda, Angola, April 2014.

Somaliland has been a self-governing nation for 23 years, but lacks international recognition as a state. Somaliland’s neighbours should recognise the nation to ensure security and stability in the region