Africa News from a Ghanaian Lens

Africa news covered from a Ghanaian lens: regional politics, economies, and the events shaping the continent. Curated from leading newsrooms and updated through the day, newest first.

74-year-old former Nigerian senator Dangana Ocheja marries 18-year-old lady
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Former Nigerian Senator Dangana Ocheja Sparks National Debate Following Marriage to 18-Year-Old Bride

Former Nigerian Senator Dangana Ocheja has become the center of a heated public discussion following his marriage to an 18-year-old woman. Ocheja, who is 74 years old, celebrated the union through a traditional ceremony, highlighting a massive 56-year age gap that has captured the attention of citizens across the continent. The news surfaced after images of the wedding were widely shared on various digital platforms, prompting immediate reactions from diverse segments of Nigerian society. The ceremony, conducted according to local customs, showcased the couple in traditional attire, marking a significant personal milestone for the veteran politician. While such marriages are not entirely unprecedented in certain cultural contexts within the region, the prominence of Ocheja’s former political status has amplified the visibility of the union. As a former representative in the Nigerian Senate, his personal life remains under public scrutiny, leading many to question the optics and ethics of such a vast age disparity in a modern sociopolitical climate. The marriage has reignited a complex debate regarding the nature of consent, the influence of wealth and power, and the evolving standards of relationship dynamics in West Africa. On social media, critics have raised concerns about the potential for exploitation given the significant power imbalance between a septuagenarian former statesman and a teenager just reaching the age of legal adulthood. Conversely, some defenders of the union argue that if the marriage is consensual and adheres to traditional practices, it should be respected as a private matter between the families involved. This incident serves as a flashpoint for broader discussions on the intersection of tradition and modern human rights perspectives in Nigeria. It underscores the ongoing tension between historical matrimonial customs and contemporary societal expectations. As the images continue to circulate, the conversation remains focused on whether traditional norms should be re-evaluated in the face of modern ethics, or if the autonomy of the individuals involved remains the primary legal and moral benchmark.

Chimamanda’s son’s death: Hospital asks court to stop inquest
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Chimamanda Adichie and Husband Seek Dismissal of Hospital’s Suit to Halt Son’s Death Inquest

Renowned author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband are currently embroiled in a legal battle with Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital over a coroner’s inquest into the death of their son, Nkanu. The couple has formally requested a court to dismiss a lawsuit filed by the hospital, which seeks to halt the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child's passing. The legal proceedings have drawn significant attention, as the court has scheduled a pivotal ruling for October 12, 2026, regarding the hospital's application to terminate the inquiry. Nkanu tragically passed away on January 7, 2026, while undergoing treatment at Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital. In the wake of this loss, an inquest was initiated to determine the cause of death. However, the hospital filed a suit to stop the process, raising procedural and legal objections. Adichie and her husband have countered this move, arguing that the hospital’s legal action is premature. They maintain that because no final findings have yet been reached by the coroner, there is no valid basis for the hospital to challenge the proceedings at this stage. The Lagos State Attorney-General has also intervened in the matter, throwing support behind the dismissal of the hospital’s application. The Attorney-General cited statutory provisions that grant coroners broad discretion in conducting investigations into sudden or unexplained deaths. This support reinforces the position that the inquest is a legitimate exercise of state authority intended to ensure transparency and accountability in medical outcomes. The hospital's challenge hinges on specific legal technicalities, including questions regarding the presentation of evidence and the legality of conducting an inquest in the absence of the deceased’s body. These arguments touch upon the fundamental requirements for coroner investigations. Despite these objections, the Adichie family and the state’s legal representatives continue to push for the inquest to proceed to its logical conclusion. The upcoming October 2026 ruling will be a critical juncture, determining whether the search for answers regarding Nkanu's death can continue or if the hospital's request for a stay will be granted.

Amnesty International and Local Medics Report Massive Civilian Casualties in Mali and Ethiopia Conflict Zones
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Amnesty International and Local Medics Report Massive Civilian Casualties in Mali and Ethiopia Conflict Zones

Recent reports from East and West Africa highlight a devastating surge in civilian casualties as internal conflicts intensify across the continent. In Ethiopia’s Tigray region, at least 52 civilians were killed during three days of heavy fighting in the town of Alamata, while a new report from Amnesty International details the systematic execution and torture of dozens in Mali. These developments underscore a growing humanitarian crisis characterized by state military offensives and the controversial involvement of foreign paramilitary groups, leading to significant displacement and loss of life. In Mali, the Amnesty International report titled "No One is Spared" documents the killing of at least 34 civilians between June 2023 and December 2025 across the Ségou, Mopti, and Timbuktu regions. The report strongly implicates the Malian military and Russian fighters, formerly associated with the Wagner Group and now operating as Africa Corps. Victims, including many from the Fulani and Tuareg ethnic groups, were reportedly shot while fleeing or following arrests. Beyond extrajudicial killings, the document highlights instances of enforced disappearances, torture, and drone strikes targeting non-combatants. This persistent violence and lack of accountability have forced over 290,000 refugees to flee into neighboring Mauritania. Simultaneously, the conflict in Ethiopia has seen a sharp escalation in the town of Alamata within the Tigray region. Medical sources reported to the BBC that 52 civilians lost their lives as government forces engaged in intense combat to seize control of the area over a 72-hour period. Following the capture of Alamata, visual evidence of military tanks circulating on social media suggests that federal forces may be preparing for a further advance toward Mekelle, the regional capital. This renewed violence threatens the fragile stability of Northern Ethiopia and adds to the mounting toll of civilians caught in the crossfire of state-led territorial disputes. These reports collectively paint a grim picture of the human rights landscape in conflict-affected African nations. While Amnesty International has submitted its findings to Malian authorities, there has been no official response or indication of investigations into the alleged atrocities. The lack of transparency regarding military operations and the continued use of foreign mercenaries exacerbate the suffering of local populations who have little recourse for justice. As fighting persists in both Ethiopia and Mali, international observers are calling for urgent intervention and greater protection for the hundreds of thousands of people displaced by the ongoing violence.

Ghana and Ivory Coast Face Heightened Security Scrutiny Over Illicit Trade and Sahel Conflict Links
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Ghana and Ivory Coast Face Heightened Security Scrutiny Over Illicit Trade and Sahel Conflict Links

West African security has come under intense international scrutiny following the release of the 2025 Global Organised Crime Index, which identifies Ghana as a primary source of commercial explosives fueling conflicts in Mali and Burkina Faso. Simultaneously, neighboring Ivory Coast has launched a major crackdown on illegal gold mining operations, which authorities claim are being used to fund armed groups across the Sahel region. These developments highlight a growing regional crisis where illicit local industries and porous borders are directly sustaining extremist violence and organized crime networks across the sub-continent. According to the Global Organised Crime Index, Ghana's role in the illicit arms trade is expanding, with Accra and Kumasi emerging as significant hubs for the sale of illegal firearms and explosives. In Kumasi, local craftsmen have established profitable gun-manufacturing centers, leveraging affordable raw materials to meet a rising domestic and regional demand for weapons. The report further notes that Ghana has become a major transit point for counterfeit goods, including medicines and electrical products primarily originating from China. These items are often smuggled through porous borders with Togo and Burkina Faso, while high excise taxes on tobacco and alcohol have further incentivized cross-border smuggling operations. In Ivory Coast, the government has intensified its efforts to dismantle illegal gold mining sites, most notably in the village of Baziafla, where authorities have set a six-month deadline to clear all unauthorized operations. Beyond the security implications of funding Sahelian insurgents, the 'gold rush' has caused catastrophic environmental damage, including the severe pollution of Lake Kossou, a vital national water source. While Ivorian officials have increased surveillance and lengthened prison sentences for offenders, critics argue that enforcement remains uneven. Many small-scale miners are frequently arrested, yet the powerful ringleaders often remain untouched due to alleged complicity among some local and national officials. The combined findings from these reports underscore the complex challenges facing West African governments as they attempt to balance economic activity with national security. The ease with which explosives and weapons move from Ghanaian markets into active conflict zones, coupled with the environmental and social degradation caused by illegal mining in Ivory Coast, suggests that current border controls are insufficient. Moving forward, regional cooperation and a more targeted approach toward dismantling the financial and logistical heads of these criminal networks will be essential to stabilizing the Sahel and protecting the territorial integrity of coastal states.

Chijioke Timothy Odimegwu and Harafat Mogaji Sentenced to Prison for $2.4m Cyber Fraud Scheme in the United States
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Chijioke Timothy Odimegwu and Harafat Mogaji Sentenced to Prison for $2.4m Cyber Fraud Scheme in the United States

Two Nigerians who served as members of the United States Air Force have been sentenced to a combined 189 months in federal prison for their roles in a sophisticated international cyber fraud operation. Chijioke Timothy Odimegwu and Harafat Mogaji were convicted on September 25, 2026, following a federal investigation that uncovered a scheme to defraud businesses and individuals of over $2.4 million. The defendants, who were residing in the U.S., utilized their technical knowledge and positions to facilitate a series of complex digital intrusions. The fraudulent operation relied on phishing emails and email spamming to harvest credentials and gain unauthorized access to sensitive computer systems. Once inside, the duo and their co-conspirators stole credit card information and manipulated financial records to redirect payments to bank accounts under their control. These activities spanned nearly two years and involved the diversion of significant wire transfers from victims located in several states, including Iowa and Ohio. While early reports estimated the damages at $1.68 million, court findings confirmed the total loss exceeded $2.4 million. The case involved a wide-reaching network of collaborators both within the United States and abroad. The court emphasized the calculated nature of the crimes, noting that the defendants leveraged stolen credentials to deceive victims into believing they were conducting legitimate business transactions. The sentencing marks the end of a multi-year effort by federal authorities to dismantle this specific cell of cybercriminals who targeted domestic corporate infrastructure. This conviction underscores the heightened focus of the U.S. justice system on combating international cybercrime and digital financial fraud. The substantial prison terms reflect the severity of the breach and serve as a deterrent to others engaged in credential harvesting and wire fraud. Following their incarceration, Odimegwu and Mogaji may face additional administrative actions from the military and potential deportation proceedings, highlighting the long-term consequences of their criminal enterprise.

African Sovereignty and Global Influence: Continental Bodies and Scholars Push for UNSC Reform and Reparatory Justice
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African Sovereignty and Global Influence: Continental Bodies and Scholars Push for UNSC Reform and Reparatory Justice

African nations are increasingly asserting their sovereignty and demanding a more equitable share of global influence, according to a series of recent reports and high-level diplomatic actions. A new study by IBN Yussif Duranah Abdul-Mumin Seidu has proposed a bold three-pronged strategy to amplify Africa’s voice on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), where the continent currently lacks permanent representation. The strategy advocates for a temporary diplomatic boycott of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), a counter-summit in Addis Ababa to unify African leaders, and a conditional re-engagement with the UN. This proposal comes amid rising concerns regarding the high financial costs of UNGA participation compared to the limited diplomatic benefits the continent receives under the current structural framework. Parallel to these calls for UN reform, the AfriKan Continental Union Consult (ACUC) has emphasized the need for enhanced protection of African leadership and economic interests. Mr. Benjamin Anyagre Aziginaateeg of the ACUC highlighted Ghana’s pivotal role in fostering economic cooperation between the African Union (AU), Latin America (CELAC), and the Caribbean (CARICOM). A cornerstone of this cooperation is the pursuit of reparatory justice, bolstered by the UN’s adoption of Resolution A/RES/80/250 and progress made during the Accra Next Steps Conference. The ACUC is urging African nations to prioritize economic self-reliance and collective prosperity over partisan internal politics to withstand external pressures that threaten continental progress. While some regions focus on integration, others are navigating tense bilateral relations to protect national sovereignty. The South African government recently summoned United States Ambassador Brent Bozell for a record third time in nine months, citing "undiplomatic conduct." The friction stems from critical media interviews given by the ambassador regarding South Africa's internal policies, including land ownership and racial inequalities. This diplomatic spat underscores a broader continental sensitivity toward external interference in domestic affairs, even as both nations claim a commitment to resolving their differences through official channels. Collectively, these developments signal a continent in transition, seeking to redefine its role on the world stage. From Zimbabwe, where President Emmerson Mnangagwa recently highlighted domestic economic gains and currency stability in his State of the Nation Address, to the broader pan-African movement for historical justice, the narrative is shifting toward autonomy. The success of these initiatives will depend on Africa's ability to maintain a unified front in international forums and educate its youth on the importance of economic sovereignty and the historical context of its current struggles.

Ghana High Commission Issues Safety Advisory Amid Rising Anti-Migrant Protests in South Africa
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Ghana High Commission Issues Safety Advisory Amid Rising Anti-Migrant Protests in South Africa

Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria has issued an urgent security advisory for Ghanaian nationals living in or visiting South Africa, following a surge in anti-migrant demonstrations. The protests, organized by the movement known as "March and March," have intensified across several provinces, with hundreds of participants vowing "no backing down" in their campaign against illegal immigration. The group has reportedly set unofficial deadlines for undocumented immigrants to leave the country, sparking concerns over potential civil unrest and disruptions in major urban centers. The demonstrations have been particularly concentrated in Durban, where hundreds of residents gathered to demand the immediate departure of undocumented individuals. While the movement is centered in the KwaZulu-Natal province, its influence has spread to multiple other regions, with protesters utilizing the September 30 deadline as a focal point for their activities. This hardline stance has historically led to heightened tensions and significant disruptions within central business districts, prompting authorities and diplomatic missions to prepare for possible escalations. In response to these developments, the Ghana High Commission has urged all Ghanaians to exercise extreme caution and maintain a low profile. The advisory specifically recommends avoiding all demonstration sites, limiting non-essential travel, and remaining vigilant when navigating public spaces. Furthermore, the High Commission has strongly advised nationals to ensure their immigration documents are valid and up to date, emphasizing the importance of staying law-abiding and following all instructions issued by South African law enforcement agencies to avoid legal complications or personal harm. As the situation evolves, the Ghanaian diplomatic mission continues to monitor the impact of these social movements on the safety of its citizens. The recurring nature of these protests underscores the ongoing social friction regarding immigration policy in South Africa. The High Commission has reiterated its commitment to the welfare of the Ghanaian community, encouraging nationals to stay informed through official channels and to remain calm as authorities work to maintain order amidst the volatile climate.

Somali Security Forces Rescue Hijacked Tanker MT Honour 25 After Pirates Kill Five Crew Members
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Somali Security Forces Rescue Hijacked Tanker MT Honour 25 After Pirates Kill Five Crew Members

Five crew members were tragically killed by pirates before regional security forces in Somalia's Puntland state successfully reclaimed a hijacked oil tanker. The MT Honour 25, a Palau-flagged vessel, was freed following an intense security operation that ended a months-long hostage ordeal. Somali authorities, including Puntland Deputy Information Minister Bile Qabowsade, confirmed the casualties on Tuesday, highlighting the lethal risks currently faced by maritime workers as piracy incidents see a worrying uptick in the region. The vessel was originally seized by pirates on April 21, leading to a standoff that lasted nearly six months. During this period of captivity, the hijackers reportedly demanded a ransom of $3 million for the release of the ship and its remaining crew. The ordeal finally concluded on September 29, when Puntland security forces launched a rescue mission to retake the ship. According to official reports, the five crew members were killed by their captors shortly before the security forces managed to intervene and secure the vessel. The rescue operation was marked by a violent exchange of gunfire between the security forces and the pirates. Despite the tragic loss of life among the crew, the regional forces successfully detained several pirates during the raid. The recovery of the MT Honour 25 comes amid growing international concern regarding the resurgence of pirate activity off the Somali coast, with organizations like the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) noting an increased threat level for all commercial shipping in the area. This incident underscores the ongoing volatility of the waters in the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, prompting calls for heightened vigilance and increased international cooperation. As Puntland authorities process the detained pirates and investigate the circumstances of the crew's deaths, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the high human cost associated with the recent revival of Somali piracy. The successful, albeit costly, recovery of the tanker marks a significant effort by regional forces to maintain maritime security in one of the world's most dangerous shipping lanes.

President Évariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi is seen delivering a speech from a podium at the United Nations. He is wearing a dark, high-collared suit and stands before a distinctive green marble backdrop featuring the UN logo.
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Burundi Reaches Agreement with United States to Accept Third-Country Deportees

Burundi has officially agreed to accept individuals deported from the United States, representing a significant shift in the country's migration policy. The agreement, confirmed by presidential spokesperson Nancy Ninette Mutoni, is notable because it includes individuals who may have no prior personal, familial, or national ties to the East African nation. This development aligns with the current U.S. administration's strategy to expand third-country removals as a central pillar of its immigration enforcement efforts, seeking partners outside of the deportees' home countries. Under the terms of the agreement, Burundi has established strict criteria for the individuals it will receive. The government has specified that only those not facing active criminal prosecution and who have no known links to terrorism will be eligible for relocation. Mutoni emphasized that preparations are already underway to ensure these individuals are integrated into local communities. These logistical efforts focus on securing adequate housing and developing support systems to facilitate a smooth transition for the inbound deportees, though a specific timeline and the total number of individuals to be relocated have yet to be finalized. While the agreement marks a diplomatic milestone for U.S. immigration goals, it faces significant legal and logistical hurdles. A recent ruling by a U.S. appeals court has introduced new uncertainty into the program, mandating that individuals slated for deportation must have the opportunity to contest their removal, particularly when human rights concerns are involved. These legal challenges may slow the implementation of the program as the U.S. government navigates a complex domestic judicial landscape regarding the rights of those facing removal to third-party nations. The move has sparked intense debate among regional analysts and civil society groups across Africa. Critics have raised questions regarding the capacity of local infrastructures to handle the economic and social integration of foreign nationals, while others point to potential human rights implications under international law. As Burundi prepares for the first arrivals, the international community is watching closely to see how this model of third-country removal will affect the broader geopolitical responsibilities of African nations in global migration management.

Captain Ibrahim Traore, Burkina Faso's junta leader, is pictured in military fatigues and a red beret alongside officials at the opening of a new gold refinery. They are gathered around a display of processed gold bars, signifying the country's move to refine its mineral resources domestically.
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Captain Ibrahim Traoré Inaugurates Burkina Faso’s First Gold Refinery in Push for Economic Sovereignty

Burkina Faso's military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has officially inaugurated Raffinor-BF, the nation’s first domestic gold refinery. Located in the capital, the facility represents a pivotal shift toward economic sovereignty for the West African nation, which ranks as the continent’s third-largest gold producer with over 94 tonnes produced last year. The $19 million project, costing approximately 11 billion CFA francs, is designed to ensure that mineral wealth remains within the country by processing raw gold locally rather than exporting it to foreign refineries for processing. The refinery currently boasts an initial processing capacity of 164 tonnes per year, with ambitious plans to scale up to 515 tonnes. This expansion goal includes the potential to process gold from neighboring countries, positioning Burkina Faso as a regional industrial hub. Under Traoré’s administration, the government has introduced more stringent mining policies, including a requirement for foreign mining corporations to grant a 15% stake to the state and implement local workforce training programs. These reforms are central to a nationalist agenda aimed at reducing the influence of foreign entities and maximizing the benefits of natural resources for the local population. Beyond economic goals, the push for domestic refining serves a critical security purpose. The government has identified the illicit gold trade and unregulated artisanal mining as significant sources of funding for Islamist extremist groups that have destabilized the region. By formalizing and centralizing the refining process, the administration hopes to curb smuggling and sever the financial lifelines of jihadist insurgencies. However, this economic push coincides with a volatile political environment. While Traoré aligns his rhetoric with the ideals of Thomas Sankara, critics and exiled journalists have expressed concern that the military regime uses the fight against terrorism as a pretext for maintaining power and suppressing dissent. Burkina Faso’s initiative reflects a growing trend of resource nationalism across West Africa, as nations like Mali and Guinea similarly seek greater control over their mineral assets. The success of Raffinor-BF will serve as a litmus test for whether domestic processing can deliver true economic independence amidst ongoing security crises and international scrutiny of military governance. As the facility begins operations, the global community remains watchful of how the Traoré administration balances its nationalist economic ambitions with the need for political stability and the protection of fundamental human rights.

President Cyril Ramaphosa Unveils National Emergency Measures Following Discovery of 12 Murdered Women in South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa Unveils National Emergency Measures Following Discovery of 12 Murdered Women in South Africa

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced an urgent national emergency response to combat the country’s rampant gender-based violence (GBV) following the discovery of 12 women’s bodies in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg. The gruesome findings, which occurred over a span of just two months, have ignited national outrage and renewed intense scrutiny of the government's ability to protect its citizens. In a televised address to the nation, Ramaphosa characterized the situation as a critical crisis that demands immediate and comprehensive administrative and security interventions to prevent further loss of life. Among the primary measures unveiled is the implementation of mandatory safety audits across all municipalities to identify and mitigate local hazards that compromise women's safety. This "clean-up" initiative will focus on high-risk areas and include nationwide security sweeps to secure unsafe streets. Furthermore, the President has ordered the creation of specialized investigative teams and a thorough review of unresolved cases involving violent crimes against women. To complement these security measures, the government is introducing an enforcement package aimed at curbing alcohol-related violence; while Ramaphosa noted that alcohol is not the root cause of GBV, he emphasized that it significantly exacerbates the frequency and severity of such attacks. Beyond legislative and police action, Ramaphosa called for a profound cultural transformation in South African society. He emphasized that the responsibility for ending violence against women lies predominantly with men and boys, urging them to take a stand and challenge the deep-rooted attitudes and systemic inequalities that perpetuate abuse. The President candidly acknowledged that past government efforts and protective measures have been inadequate, leading to a breakdown in trust. By shifting the focus toward male accountability and cultural change, the administration aims to address the societal foundations of femicide rather than merely treating the symptoms. The urgency of these measures is underscored by harrowing national statistics, which recorded 5,427 homicides in the country between April and June alone. In the specific case of the Ekurhuleni murders, law enforcement officials have already taken four suspects into custody as investigations continue. Forensic evidence is currently being analyzed to build robust cases against those responsible. President Ramaphosa has pledged that his administration will prioritize transparency and accountability moving forward, ensuring that the justice system effectively handles cases of gender-based violence to provide a safer environment for all South African women and girls.

A medium shot of Fatima Zahra El Mansouri, who has been appointed as Morocco's first female Prime Minister. She is pictured wearing distinctive red-rimmed glasses and a dark pinstripe blazer against a blue backdrop with blurred text.
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Fatima Zahra El Mansouri Appointed Morocco’s First Female Prime Minister

In a historic shift for North African governance, King Mohammed VI has appointed Fatima Zahra El Mansouri as Morocco’s first female prime minister. El Mansouri, 50, represents the centre-right Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), which emerged as the leading force in the most recent parliamentary elections by securing 97 out of 395 seats. This appointment marks El Mansouri as only the second woman in the Arab world to lead a government, following in the footsteps of Tunisia’s Najla Bouden. A lawyer by training with expertise in business and corporate law, the new prime minister previously served as the mayor of Marrakesh and held various ministerial roles in the outgoing administration. While her appointment is celebrated as a milestone for gender inclusivity, El Mansouri faces immediate political hurdles. Because the PAM lacks an absolute majority in parliament, her primary task involves navigating complex negotiations to form a stable coalition government. This political maneuvering comes at a time of public skepticism, underscored by a notable decline in voter turnout to 38%. Upon her appointment, El Mansouri expressed pride in the historic nature of her role and pledged to address the high expectations of the populace, particularly the youth who are seeking tangible improvements in governance and economic opportunity. Developing a robust economic strategy is a top priority for the new administration, which has campaigned on promises of job creation and sustainable growth. Morocco is currently grappling with significant economic pressures, including rising inflation and the need for fiscal stability. Furthermore, El Mansouri’s government will be responsible for overseeing massive infrastructure projects and preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco is set to co-host. Observers suggest that while she has historically avoided direct engagement with gender-specific activism, her rise to the premiership inherently challenges traditional patriarchal norms in the region. Despite the domestic shift in leadership, analysts expect a high degree of continuity in Morocco’s foreign policy. Maintaining steady diplomatic relations remains crucial for the kingdom’s strategic interests. As El Mansouri takes the helm, her leadership will be closely watched across the continent as a bellwether for female representation in high-level governance. The success of her administration will likely depend on her ability to balance the demands of coalition partners with the urgent need for economic reforms and the delivery of the ambitious infrastructure goals set for the coming decade.