Africa News Live Updates: Witness testifies land records vanished from Abuja system after N62m payment to realtor

A witness has testified in a Nigerian court that the official records for a property disappeared from the Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS) after a realtor in Abuja accepted a N62 million payment, as per a report in Premium Times. The testimony also revealed that Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had previously marked the property in question in September 2024 as part of its investigation into the matter. The case highlights alleged corruption and vulnerabilities within the digital land registry system of Nigeria's capital.

South Africans are increasingly adopting affordable solar power to maintain electricity for essential needs, such as medical equipment, amid the country's persistent energy crisis and frequent power cuts, according to a report in BBC. The article highlights how citizens are turning to private solar installations as a solution to the erratic national power supply, characterized by scheduled outages known as "load shedding." For some, having a reliable power source from solar has become a crucial, life-sustaining measure, ensuring that critical home medical devices can operate without interruption.

Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Mubarakh Muganga, has called for a new, unified era in African military training designed to bridge the digital divide, according to a report in The New Times. Speaking on Monday, July 21, Muganga emphasized the need for African militaries to adapt to modern security challenges, which increasingly involve technology and cyber warfare. The call advocates for standardized, technologically advanced training across the continent to enhance interoperability and counter threats such as cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns.

The government of Rwanda has launched its Urbanisation and Rural Settlement Sector Strategic Plan for 2024–2029, which outlines a new roadmap for national development, according to a report in The New Times. The strategy focuses on creating inclusive, climate-resilient urban growth while also improving living conditions in rural areas. This initiative aligns with the country's broader long-term development goals, including its Vision 2050, which targets the establishment of a green, high-income economy.

Rwanda is looking into three specific biotech crops as a potential solution for farmers facing devastating crop diseases, according to a report in The New Times. The effort aims to curb significant agricultural losses, such as those caused by Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSD), which has previously wiped out entire plantations. The introduction of these genetically modified crops is being positioned as a way to enhance food security and protect farmers' livelihoods from widespread plant illnesses.

The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) announced the temporary closure of the Château Le Marara hotel in the Karongi District on Monday, July 21, according to a report in The New Times. The decision was made after the government body conducted an investigation into allegations concerning poor service delivery at the hotel.

Police in Nigeria have arrested a suspected cultist and recovered a human skull, Premium Times said in a report. The police stated that the suspect also specializes in vandalizing electric transformers and cables.

The European Union has introduced a new immigration policy that could make development funding for African nations conditional on their efforts to prevent migration, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. This approach, rooted in the recently adopted EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, is framed by the EU as necessary cooperation to manage migration and combat human trafficking. However, the policy has drawn criticism from experts who warn it could be counterproductive, undermine the sovereignty of African nations, and fuel resentment. Critics argue the policy forces African governments into a choice between securing vital funding and policing their own citizens, potentially diverting resources from development to border enforcement and pushing migrants towards more dangerous routes.

A panel in Nigeria's House of Representatives has launched a probe into 25 insurance companies over allegations of unremitted funds owed to the federal government, according to a report in Premium Times. Lawmakers allege that systemic breaches and non-compliance by the firms have collectively cost the government hundreds of billions of naira. The investigation is part of a wider government initiative under President Bola Tinubu's administration aimed at enhancing fiscal discipline, addressing revenue leakages, and boosting national income.

A legislative effort in Nigeria to pass a "Reserved Seats Bill" is gaining momentum with bipartisan political support and a public campaign that has mobilized over 10 million people, Premium Times says in a report. The bill, which aims to create special legislative seats exclusively for women, is seen by proponents as a critical step to address the country's significant gender imbalance in politics. This renewed push follows previous unsuccessful attempts to pass similar gender-focused legislation, and campaigners are optimistic that the bill is now positioned for a potential passage in October.

Nigeria's rebased Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has increased to N372 trillion for the year 2024, according to a report in Premium Times. This revision represents a 41.7% increase in the country's nominal estimates. The report notes that this increase is compared to the last rebasing exercise in 2010, which resulted in a 59.7% revision.

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has raised a significant alarm regarding the unlawful detention of numerous children across Nigeria, according to a report in Premium Times. The agency stated that many of these children are being held without trial, lack access to legal representation, and have little prospect of receiving justice. Citing these severe violations of child rights, UNICEF has issued an urgent call for comprehensive reform of the country's justice system to address the situation.

Over 3.7 million people in North-east Nigeria are confronting food insecurity as the region enters its lean season, according to a report in Premium Times. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) issued the warning, with Diana Japaridze, the head of the ICRC's office in Maiduguri, describing the growing pressure on households. Japaridze stated that food stocks are dwindling, exacerbating the critical situation for the population in the conflict-affected area.

A court in Lagos, Nigeria, has ordered the final forfeiture of $222,729.86 in the stablecoin USDT to the federal government, Premium Times says in a report. The assets were recovered by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from several Chinese nationals. The EFCC stated that the funds were traced to a large syndicate of 792 suspected individuals involved in cryptocurrency investment and romance scams.

A court in Nigeria has ordered the remand of an officer from the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) after the officer failed to appear for a scheduled re-arraignment, Premium Times says in a report. The matter was reportedly first slated for a hearing on January 22, but the officer did not attend despite receiving proper notice from the court. The remand order means the officer will be held in custody pending further legal proceedings.

Police in Nigeria's Anambra State have reported that a female student faked her own kidnapping to extort N1 million from her family, according to a report in Premium Times. The police uncovered the plot after the family paid the ransom. The incident occurs amid a rise in kidnappings for ransom in Nigeria's South-east region, though authorities noted that cases of self-kidnapping are uncommon.

The Government of Rwanda aims to deliver 1,296 affordable and social rental housing units by 2029 to address the country's housing needs, according to a report in The New Times. The plan, based on information from the Ministry of Infrastructure, is a response to rapid urbanization and a growing demand for affordable housing. This initiative is part of the country's broader long-term development goals, including the National Strategy for Transformation (NST1) and Vision 2050.

An estimated 70% of the population in Nigerian correctional centres are inmates awaiting trial, a figure human rights lawyer Pius D. Pius has decried as "alarming," according to a report in The Guardian. This highlights a significant issue within the country's justice system, where a large number of individuals are held in detention for prolonged periods without their cases being heard. The situation points to systemic challenges causing trial delays and contributes to severe prison overcrowding.

The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has denied reports that its local government chairmen in Nigeria's Katsina State have defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), according to a report in The Guardian. The party explicitly stated that none of its chairmen across the 34 local government areas in the state have left the NNPP for the ADC.

Ibrahim Kashim, who previously served as the Secretary to the State Government in Nigeria's Bauchi State and was the Peoples Democratic Party's (PDP) gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 election, has resigned from the party, The Guardian says in a report. Kashim submitted his resignation in a letter dated July 21. His departure is from the ruling party in Bauchi State, as the PDP currently holds the governorship there.

A chieftain of Nigeria's All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State, Alhaji Hassan Jika Ardo, has stated that Governor Agbu Kefas will not be granted an automatic ticket for the 2027 governorship election if he defects to the party, according to a report in The Guardian. The statement from Ardo, who is the pioneer chairman of the APC in Taraba and a former Nigerian envoy, dismisses the possibility of an uncontested nomination for the current governor, signaling that he would need to compete for the position within the party.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Education and Services in Nigeria, Mark B. Useni, has publicly debunked media reports that alleged infractions and misconduct against the executive secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), as per a report in The Guardian. In his capacity as the head of the legislative committee responsible for overseeing the commission, Useni issued a denial to counter the unspecified allegations that had been circulating in the media.

Workers at a federal polytechnic in Nigeria have initiated a shutdown of the institution that has now lasted for nine days due to an ongoing labour dispute, Premium Times says in a report. Such industrial actions are a recurring issue in Nigeria's public education sector, often stemming from disagreements over pay, working conditions, and the government's failure to implement previously negotiated agreements.

The Nigerian Oil and Gas Suppliers Association (NOGASA) has opposed a plan by the new Dangote Refinery to supply petroleum products directly to consumers and retailers in Nigeria, according to a report in Premium Times. A representative for the association, Mr. Korie, explained that the direct-to-consumer model would bypass the traditional distribution network of independent marketers and suppliers. NOGASA argues this strategy could render the roles of its members, who act as intermediaries between refineries and final consumers, obsolete, threatening their business model following the recent full commissioning of the refinery.

A newly completed 1,250-megawatt power plant owned by Deji Adeleke in Ajebamidele, Ondo State, Nigeria, is currently awaiting connection to the national gas grid before it can begin operations, Premium Times said in a report. Owner Deji Adeleke stated that once operational, the power plant is expected to create over 2,000 jobs for engineers and other associated workers.

The Rwanda National Police (RNP) has announced a new initiative to better support its female officers by creating a more conducive work environment, according to a report in The New Times. The plan involves establishing dedicated mothers' rooms and Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers at police premises. This move is aimed at assisting women in the police force with balancing their professional duties and family responsibilities.

Twenty-five children in South Africa are in critical condition at various hospitals after suffering severe burn injuries, according to a report in the Daily Sun. Physicians state the children have burns covering 60 to 70 percent of their bodies and are currently undergoing treatment.

Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has stated his readiness to mediate between Malian authorities and Tuareg rebel forces in the country's north, but only if he receives an official request from Mali, Africanews says in a report. The offer comes as the 2015 Algiers Peace Accord, which Algeria brokered, has been faltering amid renewed hostilities and following the withdrawal of international forces from Mali.

A fleet of 31 pure electric mining trucks was shipped from China on Sunday, destined for a copper mine in Zambia, as per a report in Africanews. The shipment of heavy-duty vehicles is scheduled to arrive at the port of Durban, South Africa, before being transported to the mine.

Libya's Supreme Audit Institution (SAI) is partnering with its Cameroonian counterpart to strengthen financial oversight and governance, Cameroon Tribune said in a report. The collaboration is designed to support Libya's ongoing state-building and reconstruction efforts by providing technical assistance, training for auditors, and sharing best practices in public finance auditing. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance accountability and transparency within Libyan state institutions.

Members of the Gambian diaspora in Belgium are expressing strong disapproval of new government regulations that tighten the criteria for family reunification, according to a report in The Point. The changes are seen as a significant blow to the community, potentially hindering their ability to bring spouses, children, and other relatives to the country. This development occurs amid a broader European trend of stricter immigration policies and is expected to have a direct negative impact on the unity and well-being of Gambian families in Belgium.

An association in Cameroon has provided aid to two orphanages, benefiting nearly 1,000 children, according to a report in Cameroon Tribune. The donation provided support to children living in the two institutions.

Lawmakers in Nigeria have launched the "Lagos Declaration," a new political commitment aimed at significantly reducing the number of "zero-dose" children who have not received any routine immunisations, according to a report in Premium Times. This initiative seeks to address persistent gaps in the nation's vaccination coverage, which were highlighted by challenges during previous health campaigns, including the COVID-19 vaccine rollout. The declaration is a statement of political will rather than a legally binding statute, placing the responsibility for implementation on federal bodies like the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) as well as state and local governments.

The Mufti of Rwanda has asserted that core Islamic values provide a practical path for building peaceful and united societies across Africa, The New Times said in a report. He highlighted principles such as unity, justice, peace, and responsibility as essential tools for fostering social cohesion and stability on the continent.

The Action Democratic Congress (ADC), an opposition party in Nigeria, has criticized President Bola Tinubu's administration for the significant delay in appointing new ambassadors, according to a report in Premium Times. This criticism comes after President Tinubu recalled all of Nigeria's envoys—comprising 41 non-career and 42 career diplomats—in September 2023. The government did not provide a specific reason for the recall at the time, leaving key diplomatic positions vacant since then.

UNICEF has pledged N1.5 billion to combat a critical malnutrition crisis in Sokoto, Nigeria, as per a report in Premium Times. The pledge comes in response to findings from the latest Nutrition SMART survey, which indicates that Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) has reached critical levels in the northwestern state. The funding is intended to support interventions aimed at addressing the urgent health and nutritional needs of the affected population.

The draw for the upcoming 2025/26 season fixtures of the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) will be a key part of the agenda at the league's next Annual General Meeting, Premium Times says in a report. The new football season is slated to begin on August 22.

Amid ongoing insecurity and killings, the Plateau State government in Nigeria has demanded the withdrawal of the military, according to a report in Premium Times. The state government is requesting that the Mobile Police Force (MOPOL), a specialized armed unit of the Nigeria Police Force, take over security operations. According to a government statement, this change is proposed because MOPOL is considered more experienced in handling the asymmetrical warfare tactics used by armed groups in the region, which are often linked to complex farmer-herder conflicts.

The government of Akwa Ibom State in Nigeria has publicly addressed a renewed controversy over the ownership of 76 oil wells, rejecting any possibility of a political settlement with neighboring Cross River State, Premium Times said in a report. This response follows recent suggestions attributed to the Cross River State Government that the issue, which determines the allocation of significant oil revenue under Nigeria's 13% derivation principle, could be revisited. The Akwa Ibom government emphasized that the dispute was conclusively settled by a Nigerian Supreme Court judgment in 2005, which ruled in its favor, and it considers the matter legally closed.

Kenya's Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is protesting the upcoming release of a doctor who was jailed over connections to ISIS and for plotting a bio-chemical attack in the country, according to a report in Standard Media Kenya. The individual is reportedly set to be freed due to a procedural issue, as magistrate court staff allegedly withheld his case file for over a year, which has impeded further legal proceedings.

Three African nations will formally apply to become Associate members of the International Cricket Council (ICC) later this year, as per a report in BBC. This move signifies a step towards the expansion and development of cricket on the continent, as Associate membership is a status granted by the sport's global governing body to countries where cricket is being established and grown.

The Federal High Court in Abuja, Nigeria, has denied an application from former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to travel internationally, Premium Times said in a report. This marks the second time his request has been rejected, following a similar denial by the FCT High Court. Bello is currently on trial, prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on charges of money laundering and misappropriation of public funds, which he is alleged to have committed during his tenure as governor from 2016 to 2024.

Gambia's Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG) arrested 23 suspects and confiscated quantities of cannabis and the synthetic drug ecstasy during a recent weeklong operation, according to a report in The Point. The operation is part of the country's ongoing efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking and consumption.

Gambia's national U16 basketball team was evacuated from the scene of a road accident using a private jet, The Point said in a report. The incident has drawn attention to the country's road safety and the capabilities of its emergency response services. The use of a private aircraft for the evacuation underscores the measures taken to ensure the safety of the young athletes.

The Yoruba Traditional Council, the recognized body of traditional rulers in Yorubaland, Nigeria, has re-issued its condemnation of the unauthorized crowning of individuals as 'Obas' (kings) in diaspora communities, The Point says in a report. The council asserts that such ceremonies, conducted without the proper customary rites and approval from the legitimate authorities in Nigeria, are invalid. This action reinforces the council's stance as the sole custodian of Yoruba customs and the legitimate authority for conferring traditional titles, aiming to prevent the creation of unsanctioned leadership roles among Yoruba people living abroad.

Incumbent Governor Douye Diri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) holds a significant lead of 38,477 votes over his main challenger, Timipre Sylva of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in the Bayelsa State gubernatorial election, according to a report in Premium Times. Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has adjourned the collation of the final result. Diri is the current governor of the oil-producing state, while Sylva is a former governor. The substantial margin places the incumbent in a strong position for re-election in what is historically a PDP stronghold.

The chief executive officer of South Africa's Independent Development Trust (IDT), a public entity that manages government funds for social infrastructure, is facing scrutiny over personal asset acquisitions totaling R22 million, according to a report in Daily Maverick. The investigation details that the assets include properties purchased with cash and new SUVs. This has raised questions about the source of the funds, given the IDT's role as a state-mandated organization responsible for implementing development and poverty-eradication programs.

The United Nations has offered its support to an interim government in an unnamed African nation that is holding a one-day state mourning for victims of a recent crisis, Daily Sun said in a report. The UN's statement expressed condolences for victims' families and affirmed its support for the temporary governing body.

An organization identified as NFTR has trained 50 journalists in The Gambia on the country's social security services, as per a report in The Point. The initiative aims to enhance the media's capacity to report accurately on complex social welfare issues, thereby increasing public awareness of rights and benefits related to programs such as pensions.

A court in The Gambia has convicted two individuals for the possession of forged currency, according to a report in The Point. The conviction addresses a serious offense that authorities view as a threat to the economic stability of the West African nation and the integrity of its national currency, the Dalasi. The case is also relevant to broader regional security efforts by partners like ECOWAS to combat transnational financial crime.

The Gambia Police Force (GPF) is mourning the loss of two of its officers, The Point says in a report. The force has officially announced the deaths of the two personnel.

Hannah Forster of the African Centre for Democracy and Human Rights Studies (ACDHRS) has described transnational organized crime as a "vicious threat" to peace and security across Africa, according to a report in The Point. Her statement highlights how illicit activities, including drug trafficking, human smuggling, and arms trafficking, are directly fueling conflict and instability, particularly in regions like the Sahel. These criminal networks undermine state institutions, finance extremist groups, and threaten human security, prompting calls for stronger regional cooperation through bodies like the African Union and ECOWAS to address the challenge.

Eighteen people have been declared dead and 164 are being treated across seven hospitals following a mass casualty incident in South Africa, according to a report in Daily Sun. The event has placed significant strain on the public healthcare system, which is primarily responsible for managing such large-scale emergencies in the country.

Mayor Lowe of The Gambia has issued a forceful public rebuttal against what they allege is a campaign of political bullying and smears from unnamed opponents, The Point says in a report. The accusations are set against a backdrop of potential upcoming local government elections and ongoing debates about the authority of municipal leaders. The mayor's statement positions them against perceived intimidation tactics within the country's political arena, characterizing the attacks as an effort to undermine their authority.

Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki has warned neighboring Ethiopia against the possibility of a renewed conflict amid rising tensions in the Horn of Africa, as per a report in Africanews. The warning follows recent public statements by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed about Ethiopia's need for direct access to the Red Sea, which has heightened regional concerns. This development places a significant strain on the relationship between the two nations, who were previously allies during the 2020-2022 Tigray War.

Rwanda's government intends to implement new projects aimed at preventing an estimated Rwf37 billion worth of crop production lost each season due to soil erosion, according to a report in The New Times. The plan was announced by Patrick Karangwa, the Director General of the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB). This initiative addresses the significant economic and food security challenges posed by soil degradation in the country's agricultural sector.

The Rwanda Meteorology Agency has forecasted cooler than usual temperatures and dry weather conditions across the country from July 21 to 31, according to a report in The New Times. The agency's announcement provides a short-term outlook for the remainder of the month, indicating a period of dry weather and slightly colder temperatures than what is typically expected for this time of year.

Cameroon's Minister of Finance, Louis Paul Motaze, has announced a government initiative to improve the nation's budgetary risk management system, Cameroon Tribune says in a report. The reform aims to enhance the framework for public financial management by addressing risks such as revenue shortfalls, expenditure overruns, and public debt accumulation. The move is intended to strengthen fiscal discipline, increase transparency, and ensure more efficient allocation and use of public funds.

Doctors in Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, have suspended a strike that lasted for three months, Premium Times says in a report. The industrial action, which also involved other employees under the commission, was initiated due to several unresolved issues. The suspension signals a conditional pause to the strike, allowing for the resumption of medical services in the nation's capital.

Botswana's real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) decreased by 0.3 percent in the first quarter of 2025, driven by weaker performance in the diamond and mining sectors, according to a report in the Botswana Gazette. The data from Statistics Botswana indicates this contraction is a moderation when compared to the 5.2 percent decline recorded during the same period in 2024.

Kenya's Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has emphasized the need for dialogue to address concerns raised by the country's youth, according to a report in Standard Media. ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna stated that engagement is a crucial avenue for addressing the issues highlighted by young Kenyans. This call follows recent widespread, youth-led demonstrations against the government's Finance Bill 2024, which have since broadened to include demands for systemic governmental and economic reforms.

The government of Katsina, a state in Nigeria, has officially extended the duration of maternity leave for nursing mothers, according to a report in Premium Times. A state official confirmed the decision to amend the policy was taken during a recent state executive meeting. This policy change aligns Katsina with a growing number of other Nigerian states that have increased maternity leave beyond the federal standard to better support working mothers and promote maternal and child welfare.

Now in its fifth season, the Basketball Africa League (BAL) is establishing itself as a significant force for development on the continent, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. The league, a joint venture between the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), aims to foster economic growth, provide professional opportunities for Africa's large youth population, and promote social initiatives. The BAL's pan-African structure supports the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by encouraging cross-border interaction and is driving investment in sports infrastructure and tourism. While its sustainability currently relies on NBA investment and corporate sponsorships, the league is pushing national federations toward greater professionalization and talent development.

Contradictory statements have emerged in Botswana regarding the employment of foreign workers at a citrus farm in Selebi-Phikwe, the Botswana Gazette says in a report. Minister of Labour and Home Affairs Pius Mokware has stated that his ministry never issued any work permits for foreign laborers to be employed at the farm. However, the manager of the citrus farm has confirmed that foreign laborers are indeed working there, while reportedly disputing the specific number of workers that was cited in a parliamentary question on the matter.

UK cabinet minister Kemi Badenoch made a factually incorrect claim that her children are unable to obtain Nigerian citizenship, using it to contrast Nigeria's laws with those of the UK, according to a report in Premium Times. The statement is contradicted by Nigeria's 1999 Constitution, specifically Section 25, which grants citizenship by birth to any person born outside the country whose father or mother is a citizen of Nigeria. Badenoch's children, having Nigerian parents, are therefore eligible for Nigerian citizenship by descent.

A court in South Africa has ordered former African National Congress (ANC) Member of Parliament Boy Mamabolo to be barred from Facebook, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. The order also prohibits Mamabolo from publishing any defamatory statements concerning Polokwane mayor John Mpe and his family on any social media platform. The legal action stems from a dispute between the two politicians, both of whom are members of the ANC.

A horse named 'The Real Prince' has won the Durban July, South Africa's premier horse racing and social event, the Mail & Guardian says in a report. The victory at the high-profile gathering, a major cultural and economic fixture, has focused attention on the significant and often debated role of traditional leaders within the country. The event's prominence and the horse's name are seen as highlighting the influence of figures like the Zulu Royal Household in political matters, including ongoing debates over land reform, state funding for monarchies, and their impact on national politics.

A new study has found that hunting tourism in South Africa generates R44 billion and is responsible for about 95,000 jobs, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. The research was conducted and led by Prof Peet van der Merwe and Prof Andrea Saayman from the North-West University.

The value of Rwanda's top 10 imported products in 2024 totaled more than $1.95 billion, equivalent to about Rwf2.8 trillion, according to a report in The New Times. These figures originate from the Trade & Industry Performance 2024 data released by the country's Ministry of Trade and Industry.

A new report has found that 26% of Africa's freshwater fish species are threatened with extinction, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. The findings attribute the decline to a combination of factors, including widespread pollution from industrial, agricultural, and domestic sources. Other significant drivers include habitat destruction from dams and deforestation, overfishing, the introduction of invasive species, and weak environmental governance.

A water research commission is warning that pharmaceutical contaminants, specifically traces of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs, in drinking water are a growing risk, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. Although the current levels are considered harmless in the short term, the commission cautions that long-term, chronic exposure could have negative health effects. The issue is particularly pronounced in parts of Africa due to the high volume of ARV consumption for HIV/AIDS treatment combined with water infrastructure that is often not equipped to filter out such complex pharmaceutical compounds from wastewater and drinking water supplies.

Plant poachers in South Africa have each received 15-year jail sentences for illegally harvesting rare plants located in the Northern and Western Cape provinces, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. The poached flora, found within the Cape Floristic Region biodiversity hotspot, has an estimated street value ranging from R6 million to R30 million. The severe sentences are viewed as a significant step in the country's broader fight against organized environmental crime.

Nuclear physicist Bismark Tyobeka has been appointed to chair South Africa's new Ministerial Expert Panel on Nuclear, as per a report in Mail & Guardian. The panel is tasked with advising the government on the pace, scale, and procurement strategy for developing new nuclear capacity. This move comes as South Africa seeks long-term solutions to its persistent energy crisis and aims to fulfill provisions in its Integrated Resource Plan for 2,500MW of new nuclear power.

Gauteng's Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Education, Matome Chiloane, has stated that the province requires 200 new schools to address a significant infrastructure deficit, as per a report in Mail & Guardian. The need for additional schools is attributed to rapid urbanization and population growth in the province, which is South Africa's economic hub. This announcement highlights the immense strain on public services and points to persistent challenges in overcoming historical infrastructure backlogs to meet the demands of a growing population.

Eritrea's President Isaias Afwerki has issued a warning to Ethiopia against starting a renewed conflict, citing increasing regional tensions, Africanews says in a report. The warning comes in response to Ethiopia's recent actions to secure Red Sea access, particularly a controversial Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Somaliland for port use. This move has heightened friction between the two nations, which were temporary allies during the 2020-2022 Tigray War but have long-standing disputes, including unresolved border issues from their 1998-2000 war.

Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki has issued a public warning to neighboring Ethiopia, cautioning against the possibility of a renewed conflict amid escalating regional tensions, according to a report in Africanews. The warning is a response to recent statements by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed highlighting the landlocked nation's strategic need for access to the Red Sea. This development increases concerns for stability in the Horn of Africa, particularly given the fragile peace following the 2020-2022 Tigray War and the partially implemented 2018 peace agreement between the two countries.

A court in Nigeria has issued an order restraining an individual identified as Aliyu from parading himself as the Speaker of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, Premium Times said in a report. The ruling also extends to eight other individuals, preventing them from acting as members of the state legislature, amidst a broader political dispute over the assembly's legitimate leadership and composition.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, a prominent traditional ruler in South-West Nigeria, according to a report in Premium Times. In his tribute, President Tinubu described the late monarch as a symbol of integrity, humility, and dedicated service to his people. The tribute follows the recent passing of the Oba, who was the paramount ruler of the Ijebu kingdom.

The governor of Nigeria's Katsina State, Dikko Radda, has been hospitalized after being involved in a car crash, according to a report in Premium Times. The incident involved the governor's convoy, but further details have not been released.

Gabon's President Ali Bongo has postponed the announcement of his candidacy for the upcoming presidential election, Africanews said in a report. The delay comes against the backdrop of the Bongo family's rule in Gabon, which has spanned over 55 years since his father, Omar Bongo, took power in 1967. A constitutional amendment in 2018 removed presidential term limits, making Ali Bongo eligible to run again. The postponement also brings renewed attention to his health, following a stroke he suffered in 2018.

Paul Rusesabagina, whose actions during the 1994 Rwandan genocide inspired the film 'Hotel Rwanda', has arrived in Qatar after being released from a Rwandan prison, according to a report in Africanews. Rusesabagina had been serving a 25-year sentence since 2021 on terrorism charges, which he and his supporters have consistently maintained were politically motivated due to his criticism of the Rwandan government. His release follows sustained diplomatic pressure from the United States, as Rusesabagina is a U.S. permanent resident. Qatar played a key role as a mediator in the negotiations between the U.S. and Rwanda that secured his freedom.

The head of Tunisia's Ennahdha party, Rached Ghannouchi, is the subject of another investigation, Africanews said in a report. This is the latest in a series of legal actions targeting Ghannouchi, who previously served as the speaker of the parliament before it was dissolved by President Kais Saied. The move occurs within the context of President Saied's consolidation of power since July 2021, a period during which Ghannouchi and other opposition figures have faced multiple investigations and arrests.

A corruption case involving an individual named Saifuzzaman has exposed methods of laundering money from looted bank and smuggled funds abroad, according to a report in the Daily Sun. The report details how funds derived from grand corruption and other illicit activities are moved out of the country through complex international financial transactions, including shell companies and investments in foreign assets. This case is presented as an example of the broader, continent-wide challenge of illicit financial flows (IFFs), which drain billions of dollars from African economies annually.

Elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo will continue on Thursday, as per a report in Africanews. The extension of the voting period is a response to logistical challenges, a recurring issue in the nation's electoral processes that often involves delays in the delivery of voting materials. The country's Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) is responsible for managing the vote.

The main opposition hopeful in Egypt's presidential race has abandoned their campaign, Africanews said in a report. This development removes a key challenger to incumbent President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. The specific circumstances of the withdrawal were not detailed, but it occurs in a political environment that observers have previously noted as having significant barriers for opposition figures, with past elections seeing limited competition.

Zambia's former president, Edgar Lungu, has announced his intention to seek re-election, a move that sets up a significant political and legal challenge, according to a report in Africanews. Lungu, who lost the 2021 election to current President Hakainde Hichilema, faces questions over his eligibility due to Zambia's two-term presidential limit; he previously served one partial term (2015-2016) and one full term (2016-2021). The declaration comes as his Patriotic Front (PF) party contends with internal divisions, and it presents a direct challenge to the Hichilema government, placing focus on the Zambian judiciary's impending interpretation of the constitutional term limits.

South Africa's central bank is preparing to release its upcoming Monetary Policy Statement (MPS), which will address the challenge of persistently high inflation alongside weak investment and credit growth, as per a report in Daily Sun. The decision outlined in the MPS will be crucial in setting the economic direction for the country, as policymakers weigh the need for tighter monetary policy to control inflation against measures to encourage economic expansion.

South Africa defeated Zimbabwe by seven wickets with 16 balls remaining in a T20 tri-series match on Sunday in Harare, according to a report in AP. The victory ensures South Africa will face New Zealand in the final on Saturday, while host Zimbabwe was eliminated after its third consecutive loss. Chasing a target of 145, South Africa was led by Rubin Hermann, who scored 63 runs, and captain Rassie van der Dussen, who made an unbeaten 52.

In recent South African local government by-elections, the African National Congress (ANC) secured a landslide victory in the Amathole District Municipality, according to a report in Daily Maverick. In other results, the Democratic Alliance (DA) held firm in the Eastern Cape, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) maintained its position in Polokwane, and the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) retained control in its Zululand stronghold.

Archaeologists believe they have discovered the 300-year-old shipwreck of the last vessel captured by the notorious 18th-century pirate Olivier Levasseur, also known as La Buse, as per a report in Deutsche Welle. The potential identification of the wreck has sparked interest due to the enduring legend of La Buse's vast hidden treasure, which was never found after his capture and execution. While the discovery of the ship itself is a significant archaeological find, the whereabouts of any potential treasures from the vessel remain a mystery.

The first malaria treatment designed for newborn babies has received approval for use, marking a significant step in global health, according to a report in The Washington Post. This development addresses a critical gap in care, as malaria caused 597,000 deaths worldwide in 2023. The World Health Organization’s Africa region is the most affected, with children under the age of five accounting for 76 percent of all malaria deaths in the region.

A project led by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has benefitted farmers in Kenya and Rwanda by mitigating water-related disasters, according to a report in The New Times. The initiative, titled “Responding to Water-Related Disasters: Mitigating and Optimising Excess Water in Kenya and Rwanda,” involved the construction of water reservoirs in the two countries. These reservoirs were designed to store excess water, providing a crucial resource for farmers and helping to control the impact of events like floods.

Rwanda's cabinet, in a meeting chaired by President Paul Kagame on June 9, 2025, approved the appointment of Nicaise Ndembi to a leadership position related to the country's vaccine innovation strategy, The New Times said in a report. Ndembi is the Deputy Director General of the International Vaccine Institute (IVI), an independent, non-profit international organization focused on vaccine development. This appointment is a key step in Rwanda's broader plan to build domestic vaccine manufacturing capacity and strengthen national health security.