Djibo, a city in northern Burkina Faso, is suffering under a jihadist blockade that has lasted for two years, causing severe food shortages and humanitarian crises. The blockade has led to a significant increase in displaced persons, with around 260,000 people seeking refuge in the city. Humanitarian efforts are severely hampered, with organizations like Médecins sans frontières suspending activities due to security threats. The local population is struggling with extreme scarcity of essential goods, leading to a thriving black market and desperate measures for survival. The situation is exacerbated by the limited and costly aerial supply routes, as the city remains isolated from aid and resources.

In Senegal, marabouts, or Muslim holy men, are profiting from the migration crisis by selling talismans and promising protection to young people attempting the dangerous Atlantic crossing to Europe. Despite being illegal, these practices persist due to strong animist beliefs intertwined with Islam. The European Union has pledged $32.4 million to Senegal to combat clandestine migration and human trafficking. The article highlights the complex interplay of cultural beliefs, economic desperation, and the allure of Europe as a perceived 'El Dorado' for many Senegalese youth.

In Senegal, marabouts offer mystical protection to migrants attempting the dangerous journey to Europe, blending Islamic and animist practices. Despite legal prohibitions, these spiritual guides are sought after by young people hoping to succeed abroad. The article highlights the societal pressures and beliefs that drive migration, with some marabouts acting as psychological support. Efforts to counteract these migrations include a €30 million EU initiative aimed at raising awareness of the risks involved.

Senegal's President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has dissolved the National Assembly, calling for early elections to secure institutional support for his systemic transformation agenda. Despite his party, Pastef, having limited parliamentary representation, the move aims to overcome legislative obstacles posed by the opposition, particularly the former ruling coalition Benno Bokk Yakaar. Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, a key figure in the upcoming elections, is expected to leverage his popularity among the youth. The government has initiated measures like price reductions and public audits, but faces challenges in fulfilling broader promises such as tackling youth unemployment and renegotiating energy contracts.

The Senegalese media is facing significant pressure from the new government led by Ousmane Sonko, with financial and legal challenges threatening their survival. The government demands the payment of tax arrears, reversing the previous administration's promise to forgive media debts. This has led to the closure of several media outlets and a 'day without press' protest. The media landscape, once a model of democratic pluralism, is now under threat, with Senegal dropping in the global press freedom rankings. Reporters Without Borders and other stakeholders express concern over the deteriorating conditions for journalists, amid accusations of government hostility towards the press.

Former Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum remains under house arrest by the junta that overthrew him a year ago. His situation has worsened, with his presidential immunity lifted and potential charges of treason looming. The junta accuses him of plotting with foreign leaders, including France's Emmanuel Macron, for an armed intervention. Bazoum's legal team decries the lack of due process, while international calls for his release, notably from France, have been ignored. The junta, led by General Tiani, remains defiant, rejecting any return to previous regimes and framing their rule as a break from neocolonialism.

Following a military coup, Niger's new government has repealed a 2015 migration law, impacting migration routes through Agadez. This repeal has led to increased migration activity, with official convoys now transporting people to Libya. The EU's previous efforts to curb migration through Niger are criticized as ineffective, with the law's repeal seen as an opportunity to better regulate and protect migrants. The shift in Niger's alliances from Western countries to Russia is noted, reflecting broader regional trends. Economic benefits for local communities in Agadez are highlighted, as migration becomes a significant source of income.

The article discusses the Opera Village in Ziniaré, Burkina Faso, an architectural project created by Francis Kéré, the first African recipient of the Pritzker Prize. The village includes a primary school, cafeteria, housing, clinic, workshops, and artists' residences. It was initially envisioned by German playwright Christoph Schlingensief as an opera house in the bush, using local materials and community help. The school provides a cool environment for children to study and participate in workshops offered by artists in residence. The project, still under construction, has become a source of curiosity and inspiration, and has been used as a film set. The article also touches on the project's beginnings and the collaboration between Schlingensief and Kéré, highlighting the site's historical significance to local communities.

In the Sahel, food aid efforts are challenged by ongoing violence and hunger. In Diffa, Niger, displaced populations face severe food insecurity exacerbated by climate change and jihadist insurgencies. Humanitarian organizations like the World Food Programme and UNICEF are implementing resilience projects to reduce dependency on external aid. However, funding shortfalls and geopolitical tensions, such as the recent coup in Niger, hinder these efforts. The situation remains dire, with millions in need of food aid and limited resources to support them.

French and European nationals are reportedly being denied entry into Niger, with several instances of individuals being turned away at the airport despite having valid visas. The situation has caused concern among the remaining French citizens in Niger. The Nigerien authorities have not officially confirmed the travel ban, but the measure appears to be in effect. The European Union has criticized the Nigerien government's actions, particularly the expulsion of Eucap Sahel personnel and the confiscation of their passports. The article also references past diplomatic tensions between France and Niger.