Recent documents released by U.S. courts about Jeffrey Epstein, the notorious financier convicted of sexual crimes, have brought to light his concerning infiltration in Africa. The French newspapers Le Monde and Le Figaro highlighted Epstein's extensive network on the continent, which included relationships with presidents, ministers, and influential intermediaries. Utilizing his wealth and international connections, Epstein aimed to fulfill his economic ambitions and personal desires, often engaging in dubious activities linked to his legacy of exploitation.

Both newspapers reported that Epstein employed 'local agents' with direct ties to heads of state to facilitate his dealings. Notably, Karim Wade, the son of former Senegalese President Abdoulaye Wade, emerged as a key intermediary, receiving financial support from Epstein amounting to $100,000 for lobbying efforts in Washington during his father’s presidency. This relationship is particularly alarming given the scale of influence Wade wielded and the implications of such financial entanglements between an influential African figure and a disgraced financier.

Furthermore, Le Monde revealed that Karim Wade's name appeared 504 times in the newly released Epstein documents, with Epstein allegedly regarding him as 'the most significant player in Africa.' The correspondence also pointed to discussions about investment advice, including a potential purchase of a residence in Morocco, revealing the depths of their partnership and raising serious questions about ethics, governance, and the impact of such networks on African political and economic structures.