Africa News Highlights, 31 July 2025: CAR government releases video of ex-rebel leader to dispel disappearance rumors

The government of the Central African Republic has released a video featuring Franco-Central African ex-rebel leader Armel Sayo to counter widespread rumors about his disappearance, Jeune Afrique said in a report. The video was presented to the press on Wednesday, July 30, by the government's spokesperson and published by the Ministry of Communications. This public appearance is an effort by the government in Bangui to demonstrate control and put an end to speculation regarding Sayo's status and whereabouts.

A Kenyan court has ordered the exhumation of suspected mass graves near the location of the Shakahola massacre, where over 400 cult followers died in 2023, according to a report in Jeune Afrique. The judicial order is part of the ongoing investigation into the tragedy, in which members of a sect were reportedly instructed to fast to death. The exhumations are intended to gather further evidence for the legal proceedings.

Experts in Nigeria are calling on the government to provide incentives for digital health innovators and to bolster the nation's Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) with locally developed solutions, according to a report in Premium Times. The recommendations emphasize that building a sustainable digital health ecosystem requires a combination of co-creation between public and private sectors, the implementation of smart regulations, and investment in local infrastructure. The goal is to leverage technology developed within the country to improve healthcare services and systems.

Nigeria's House of Representatives has launched an investigation into the federal government's Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) policy implementation, according to a report in Premium Times. Lawmakers initiated the probe citing concerns that the program's success is threatened by a lack of transparency, inconsistent public access to the alternative fuel, and questions about its long-term sustainability. The CNG initiative was introduced as a key measure to provide a cheaper fuel alternative following the removal of petrol subsidies in 2023.

The Nigerian government has approved a new national industrial relations policy in the midst of a crippling nationwide nurses' strike, according to a report in Premium Times. The government stated the policy is intended to address recurring industrial unrest, which it attributes to the lack of a clear national framework for negotiations, collective bargaining, and dispute resolution. This move represents a shift toward a more formalized system for managing labor disputes, which have frequently occurred across Nigeria's public sectors, including past actions by doctors, university lecturers, and other civil servants.

The Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) has launched Nigeria's inaugural Openness Index Report, a new study focused on the state of press freedom and civic expression in the country, according to a report in Premium Times. The report is structured around two main indices: 'enablers,' which are elements that support and promote free expression, and 'inhibitors,' which are factors that suppress it. The launch of this index provides a new framework for evaluating the environment for media and civil society in Nigeria.

Amid growing resistance in Western markets, Chinese automaker BYD, the world's largest electric vehicle manufacturer, is significantly increasing its investments across Africa, according to a report in Jeune Afrique. The company is focusing its strategy on strengthening partnerships with local African businesses. This strategic shift follows increased scrutiny and potential tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles in Europe and the United States, prompting BYD to seek growth in new regions.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has directed state governors to prioritize the welfare of citizens and invest more in poverty eradication measures, according to a report in Premium Times. The directive coincides with the National Economic Council's (NEC) endorsement of a new 'ward development programme,' which aims to accelerate social protection initiatives at the grassroots level. This move comes in response to widespread economic hardship following recent government policies.

Nigeria's Federal Executive Council has approved ₦68.7 billion for power projects aimed at providing reliable electricity to the nation's federal universities, according to a report in Premium Times. The project is part of the Energising Education Programme (EEP), which is led by the country's Rural Electrification Agency. The approved funds will cover the engineering, procurement, and construction of the power solutions.

The African Union has formally rejected the establishment of a rival government in Sudan by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), urging its member states and the international community to withhold recognition, Africanews says in a report. The continental body warned that the RSF's declaration threatens to further fragment Sudan and undermine fragile peace initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) that began in April 2023. The AU's stance diplomatically isolates the RSF while reinforcing the SAF's status as the internationally recognized government, though the decision does not immediately alter the military situation or alleviate the country's severe humanitarian crisis.

The Rwandan government has announced its decision to integrate the Business Development Fund (BDF) into the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD), as per a report in The New Times. According to the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, the objective of this consolidation is to establish a more efficient system for business financing within the country.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met with Tunisian President Kais Saied in Tunis on Thursday to discuss migration management and Italy's 'Mattei Plan' for Africa, Africanews said in a report. The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between the two nations as Italy seeks to implement its strategic plan, which aims to foster economic development and energy security in African countries as a means to curb irregular migration. This meeting is a step towards operationalizing the plan with a key North African partner, building on previous agreements like the 2023 EU-Tunisia memorandum on migration.

Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory (FCT) administration has announced plans for a 2025 malaria campaign aiming to reach 983,497 children, Premium Times says in a report. The initiative will specifically target children between the ages of three and 59 months, a group considered highly vulnerable to the disease due to their developing immune systems. This campaign is part of a broader national strategy in Nigeria to combat malaria, which remains a significant public health issue and a leading cause of child mortality in the country.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has addressed an allegation from Michael Achimugu regarding its supposed complicity in poor service by Nigerian airlines, according to a report in Premium Times. In its response, the NCAA clarified that a specific Abuja to Calabar flight was cancelled to ensure passenger safety. The authority attributed the cancellation to operational limitations at the destination, citing Calabar's status as a 'sunset airport' which restricts flight operations after dark.

Gospel artist Reuben Kigame has sought court approval to privately prosecute Kenya's Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, accusing him of crimes against humanity related to the deaths of young protesters during the recent 'Gen Z' anti-finance bill demonstrations, Standard Media said in a report. The legal action aims to hold senior security officials accountable for the deadly force used against civilians.

Police in Nigeria have arrested a woman who allegedly faked her own kidnapping and received a N3 million ransom payment, according to a report in Premium Times. The suspect reportedly staged the abduction after spending a N3.6 million loan on her bridal shower. Authorities stated that she shared N500,000 of the ransom with an accomplice and kept the remainder before being apprehended.

The National Bank of Rwanda announced on Thursday it has advanced to the proof-of-concept (PoC) stage for its Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), according to a report in The New Times. This phase is designed to test the feasibility and practical functionality of a digital version of the Rwandan franc. The central bank's initiative will involve technical testing and evaluation to determine if a CBDC can work in practice, preceding any decision on a full public implementation.

Rwanda's Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, met with Abdullah Kh. Almusabeeh, President of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), on July 31 to discuss potential collaboration, according to a report in The New Times. The talks centered on financing for smart city initiatives and fostering private sector growth within the country. The potential partnership aligns with Rwanda's long-term development goals, which prioritize technology, urbanization, and economic transformation.

Public school students in Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory (FCT) recently participated in a contest designed to promote literacy and a reading culture, according to a report in Premium Times. The competition included segments on spelling, creative writing, and story reviews, providing a platform for students to demonstrate their reading and comprehension abilities. The event also brought attention to resource challenges within the public education system, as many of the student competitors came from schools that do not have library facilities.

An activist in Nigeria has filed a lawsuit against President Bola Tinubu and others after the president approved a one-year tenure extension for Adewale Adeniyi, the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), as per a report in Premium Times. The approval on Thursday came after the NCS had initially denied that such an extension was being considered. The lawsuit challenges the legality of the president's decision to prolong the tenure of the customs chief.

A Nigerian business group is calling for government intervention in the new petroleum supply plan from the Dangote Refinery, according to a report in Premium Times. A representative for the group, Mr. Korie, expressed concerns that the refinery's plan to supply the domestic market directly could severely disrupt the country's oil and gas industry. The group fears the move will jeopardize the business models of current suppliers and put thousands of jobs at risk across the nation.

An appeal court in Nigeria has upheld a three-year prison sentence for a former commissioner from Imo State involved in a N180 million fraud case, according to a report in Premium Times. The court dismissed the appeal filed by the ex-commissioner, stating that it lacked merit. This decision affirms the earlier conviction and sentence handed down by the Imo State High Court.

Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Kithure Kindiki, has stated the government's commitment to addressing youth demands and urged demonstrators to express themselves peacefully, Standard Media said in a report. The statement follows recent widespread, youth-led protests across Kenya opposing the proposed Finance Bill 2024. The demands primarily focus on the repeal of the bill, along with broader concerns about the cost of living, unemployment, and governance.

The political party ActionSA has filed formal fraud charges against the municipal manager of the Rustenburg local municipality in South Africa's North West province, The Citizen says in a report. This action, part of the party's anti-corruption campaign, concerns alleged illegal contracts valued at R335 million. Filing charges initiates a formal law enforcement investigation into the allegations of contracts being awarded in contravention of procurement regulations within the key mining municipality.

The principal of Pretoria Girls High in South Africa has been suspended without pay for reportedly allowing her husband to assist with gardening at the school, according to a report in The Citizen. The disciplinary action has prompted public criticism from the opposition political party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), and the SAOU teachers' union, both of which have condemned the suspension.

South Africa's Ekurhuleni municipality is dealing with a significant revenue shortfall after it was discovered that it had been under-charging residents of the Tembisa township for electricity, according to a report in The Citizen. This billing discrepancy, described as a 'tariff mess', has created financial instability for the ANC-led metropolitan government and has been highlighted as an example of systemic governance issues. The municipal council is now tasked with resolving the problem, which has led to political criticism from opposition parties and left residents facing uncertainty over potential future tariff hikes.

Several people were injured in South Africa after an amusement park ride broke apart mid-operation, according to a report in The Citizen. The ride, which was swinging with visitors on board, was reportedly operating normally before its upper arm suddenly snapped.

Officials in the City of Tshwane, South Africa, have launched an investigation into the cause of foul-smelling and discoloured water, according to a report in The Citizen. The inquiry began after residents in the suburb of Montana reported a strong, unpleasant odour and discolouration from their tap water. The investigation is currently focused on a major reservoir that supplies the affected area as the municipality works to identify the source of the issue.

A man in the Northern Cape province of South Africa has received a sentence less than life imprisonment for killing his sister's infant son while he was under the influence of methamphetamine, known locally as 'tik', The Citizen said in a report. A key factor in the trial was the testimony from the man's sister, the mother of the deceased baby, who told the court that she had forgiven her brother for the act.

The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) has called for its senior officials to be on-site at local offices to help beneficiaries with the upcoming August grant review, according to a report in The Citizen. The agency stated the review process has significantly increased pressure on its local branches. Sassa emphasized that it is crucial for its leadership to be physically present and accessible to manage the high volume of cases and support both staff and grant recipients during this period.

Anthony Thunström, the Chief Executive Officer of The Foschini Group (TFG) in South Africa, has received a bonus valued at millions of rands in addition to a salary increase, The Citizen says in a report. The article highlights the recent compensation package awarded to the head of the major retail conglomerate.

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) in South Africa has settled 99.95% of its outstanding debt to municipalities and is launching a R2.8 billion infrastructure plan to tackle school overcrowding, The Citizen said in a report. Of the total plan, R2 billion is allocated for school infrastructure, with R1.489 billion of that amount specifically designated for the construction of new schools and the replacement of existing ones. The initiative addresses the dual challenges of inter-governmental debt affecting municipal services and the persistent shortage of adequate school facilities in the province.

South Africa's parliament has fined Deputy President Paul Mashatile for a breach of the parliamentary code of conduct after he failed to declare a 'diamond' gift given to his wife, according to a report in The Star. A parliamentary ethics committee found that Mashatile violated specific items in the code that mandate the disclosure of gifts received by Members of Parliament and their spouses. The finding was based on the failure to ensure transparency as required by the code of conduct for public officials.

South Africa's opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), has voiced alarm over the appointment of African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) members to hospital boards in the Gauteng province, The Citizen says in a report. The DA's primary objection is that the appointments were reportedly made without a formal interview process. The party stated that such roles should be considered a form of public service rather than political patronage, highlighting the ongoing national debate over the ruling party's practice of 'cadre deployment' into state institutions.

Marking World Ranger Day, a report highlights the deadly risks and high death toll for wildlife rangers across Africa who protect the continent's conservation areas, according to a report in The Citizen. These rangers are often on the front lines against increasingly sophisticated and militarized transnational poaching syndicates, which are frequently linked to organized crime. The ongoing crisis places pressure on African governments and international conservation bodies to improve security, funding, and welfare for rangers, including providing better training and equipment to counter the escalating threats.

Police in the KwaDabeka area of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, were involved in a shootout that resulted in the death of a suspect, according to a report in The Citizen. The deceased individual was reportedly linked to the prior murder of a police officer. Two other people were also injured during the exchange of gunfire.

Kutlwano Tatolo, the newly-elected president of the Botswana Chess Federation (BCF), has laid out an ambitious four-year vision for the organization, as per a report in the Botswana Gazette. Her comprehensive plan aims to transform the BCF into a more dynamic and inclusive body within the country's sports landscape. A central objective of her leadership is to improve the standard of play, with the goal of having Botswana's chess players achieve ratings that are competitive on a continental African level.

South Africa's African National Congress (ANC) is holding a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting to address key strategic issues, The Citizen says in a report. The agenda is focused on the stability of the recently formed Government of National Unity (GNU) and preparations for the next local government elections. The meeting takes place amid internal party divisions following the 2024 general elections, where the ANC lost its majority for the first time since 1994, leading to the current multi-party coalition government.

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) seized drugs with an estimated value of nearly R280,000 during a raid on a drug den in the Hillbrow area of Johannesburg, according to a report in The Citizen. Despite the significant seizure of narcotics, the JMPD confirmed that no arrests were made during the operation.

The cost of South Africa's basic household food basket has remained relatively stable, but significant price increases for protein sources like meat are placing a heavy burden on low-income consumers, The Citizen says in a report. This disparity means that while staple foods may be accessible, affording a nutritionally balanced diet is becoming more difficult. The rising cost of meat, a key item for many households, is directly impacting the overall cost of living and nutritional quality for South Africans struggling with food affordability.

A company in South Africa has been found guilty of engaging in the illicit cigarette trade and was subsequently fined R600,000 by a court, according to a report in The Citizen. In addition to the monetary penalty, the court issued a unique order requiring the company to purchase desks for local schools. The company has been given a three-month period to comply with the full judgment.

Prominent South African Maskandi musician Khuzani Mpungose is reportedly getting married to his long-term girlfriend, The Citizen says in a report. Mpungose is a highly influential figure in the Zulu folk music genre, and the announcement of his wedding has garnered significant public attention within the country.

Bulelani Klaas, a man from South Africa's Eastern Cape province, has been sentenced to 31 years in prison for raping a woman because she was chatting with another man, as per a report in The Citizen. During the trial, Klaas denied the rape charge but did admit to assaulting the victim.

The South African Reserve Bank's Monetary Policy Committee has reduced the policy rate by 25 basis points to 7%, according to a report in The Star. The decision, announced by South African Reserve Bank governor Lesetja Kganyago, is effective immediately.

South Africa's new monetary policy statement underscores a continued commitment to fighting high inflation through a tight monetary policy, as per a report in the Daily Sun. The policy, set by the South African Reserve Bank, aims to stabilize the currency and control rising prices. However, this approach has drawn concern from the nation's business sector, which has warned that the combination of the strict policy and existing weak confidence could pose significant risks to economic growth and deter investment.

King Mohammed VI presided over a traditional graduation ceremony for a new generation of Moroccan military officers at the Royal Palace in Tetouan on Wednesday, according to a report in Africanews. In his capacity as supreme commander of the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces, the King oversaw the oath-taking of the newly commissioned officers. The annual ceremony, which reinforces the military's loyalty to the monarchy, also included a tribute to the mothers of the graduates, connecting military service with national and family values.

A total of 25 people were killed in violence across South Africa during July, with 16 deaths attributed to mob violence and an additional nine to political violence, the Daily Sun said in a report. The data, released by humanitarian organization Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also noted that 51 unidentified bodies were recovered during the same one-month period.

A total of 120 teenage girls graduated in Rwanda on Thursday from the third cohort of the African Girls Can Code Initiative, according to a report in The New Times. The pan-African program seeks to empower young women across the continent by providing training in digital literacy and technology, aiming to close the gender gap in the science and technology sectors.

A South African court denied bail to Elia Moeko, one of three men accused of murdering five-year-old Ditebogo Phalane, The Star said in a report. The court rejected the bail application despite Moeko's claim that he needed to be released from custody in order to care for his children.

A delegation of eighteen students and faculty members from the Sri Lanka Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC) is currently in Rwanda for a study tour, according to a report in The New Times. The visit is part of an international knowledge exchange focused on learning from Rwanda's experience in post-conflict reconstruction and security sector reform. Such tours are a standard academic component for senior officers at the college to gain broader perspectives on military organization and strategic management.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Gauteng Judge President Dunstan Mlambo as the nation's new deputy chief justice, The Star says in a report. The appointment, which follows the upcoming departure of Justice Madlanga, is set to become effective on August 1, 2025.

A public prosecutor has been shot and killed in the South African city of Gqeberha, prompting a police investigation and a call for public assistance, as per a report in The Star. Authorities are seeking information from the public that could lead to the identification and arrest of the suspects responsible for the murder.

ArcelorMittal South Africa has reported a headline loss of R1.01 billion for the half-year, prompting the company to consider asset sales and confirm the closure of its Longs business, according to a report in The Star. Kobus Verster stated that government support is necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the country's steel industry in light of the financial challenges.

The government of Kenya is set to begin disbursing funds from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) for the current academic year starting August 15, according to a report in Standard Media. The disbursement, which includes both loans and scholarships, implements the new student-centric, need-based funding model for university and TVET students and addresses previous, long-standing delays in student loan payments. Separately, the application portal for the next academic year's funding cycle will remain open until August 31, 2025.

Namibia's Minister of Works and Transport Veikko Nekundi claims that quality test results for a road under construction in the Oshikoto region have been faked, according to a report in The Namibian. The minister stated he was informed that laboratory tests for materials used on the 16.3km Engoyi–Omutele road were falsified. These tests are essential for ensuring the road meets proper construction and safety standards.

In an effort to curb poaching, a South African university has launched an anti-poaching campaign by injecting rhino horns with radioactive isotopes, according to a report in AP. The initiative, a collaboration between the University of the Witwatersrand, nuclear energy officials, and conservationists, began on Thursday with the injection of five rhinos. The university states the material is harmless to the animals but can be detected by customs agents, with the hope of eventually applying the procedure to the broader, declining rhino population.

Namibia's Finance Minister Ericah Shafudah has appointed three new directors to the board of the Development Bank of Namibia (DBN), according to a report in The Namibian. The new members, announced on Thursday, are lawyer Desiree Masheshe, Namibian Broadcasting Corporation human resources manager Gerson Kamatuka, and aircraft engineer Bonifasia Siteketa. They will serve alongside the current board, which was appointed in January of this year.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame met with Sidi Ould Tah, the newly elected President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group, on Thursday at Village Urugwiro, the president's official office in Kigali. The meeting follows Tah's recent election to lead the pan-African financial institution.

Former Namibian health minister Bernard Haufiku stated that medical supplies sold to the government were overpriced by up to 300% during his tenure, as per a report in The Namibian. The allegations have raised concerns about corruption and irregularities within the health ministry's tender process. The country's Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) confirmed on July 30 that it has an ongoing investigation related to medicine procurement.

Two men have been arrested and appeared in court in connection with the murder of Democratic Alliance (DA) Councillor Nhlalayenza Ndlovu in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province, The Star said in a report. One of the suspects is reportedly a traditional leader. The arrests come amid heightened concerns over the persistent political violence that has historically affected the region, often targeting local government officials.

South African soccer club Kaizer Chiefs may miss the opportunity to sign promising talents Asenele Velebayi and Luke Baartman, according to a report in The Star. The club faces the risk of losing out on the two players unless it moves swiftly to secure their signatures.

The South African Reserve Bank has reduced its prime lending rate to 10.5%, signaling confidence in the country's inflation outlook, as per a report in The Star. The decision, announced by Governor Lesetja Kganyago, is expected to manage inflationary pressures while offering financial relief to South African consumers with variable-rate debt.

Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) is considering the termination of its fuel supply contract with the company Enercon, according to a report in The Namibian. The potential move follows Enercon's implication in the ongoing National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (Namcor) fuel supply scandal. NWR, a state-owned enterprise, confirmed it has launched investigations into Enercon, which is currently contracted to supply fuel to the resorts.

Muningandu Kaapama and Jorene Bezuidenhout have denied guilt on charges of murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, and obstructing justice at the start of their trial in the Windhoek High Court, according to a report in The Namibian. The charges relate to the killing and robbery of an engineer in his home in the Namibian capital in May 2022.

The Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia (SDFN) announced plans to build 3,310 new housing units nationwide in an effort to address the country's housing backlog, The Namibian says in a report. The initiative, aimed at low-income and ultra-low-income residents, will be supported by funding from the private sector and Namibia's Ministry of Urban and Rural Development. This new project follows the federation's past efforts, which have resulted in the construction of over 7,000 brick houses over the years.

The historic clock at Cape Town's City Hall in South Africa has been restored and is operational again, with its chimes sounding for the first time in 15 years, The Star says in a report. The restoration of the landmark, described as a symbol of civic pride and heritage, brings back the clock's well-known chimes to the city.

A survey indicates that 54% of working Namibians earning over N$3,000 per month have not received a salary increase since 2023, The Namibian says in a report. The pay stagnation occurs even as the country experiences a constant rise in inflation and the overall cost of living. The findings, from the Old Mutual Financial Monitor, also show that approximately 14% of these workers are now earning less than they did previously.

A new report has documented widespread and systematic sexual violence, including mass rape, sexual slavery, and forced pregnancy, committed by Ethiopian and Eritrean forces in Ethiopia's Tigray region, according to a report in The Guardian. The research, compiled by Physicians for Human Rights and the Organization for Justice and Accountability in the Horn of Africa, is based on a review of over 500 medical records and surveys of 600 health workers. The findings conclude these acts amount to crimes against humanity and warn that impunity for the perpetrators has allowed such atrocities to expand into new regions.

In Cameroon's Far North region, 750 candidates have been shortlisted for recruitment into the military's elite Rapid Intervention Battalion (BIR), according to a report in Cameroon Tribune. The pre-selected individuals will undergo further rigorous testing before a final selection is made. This recruitment drive is part of ongoing efforts to bolster security and combat the Boko Haram insurgency in the region, which has been a primary area of conflict for over a decade.

South Africa's trade statistics for June 2025 show a surplus of R22 billion, a result attributed to robust exports, according to a report in The Star. The data indicates that the value of the country's exported goods exceeded the value of its imports for the month, marking a significant positive balance of trade.

Cameroon and the Republic of the Congo are holding discussions on copyright law during a regional conference organized by the African Intellectual Property Organization, Cameroon Tribune says in a report. The conference aims to foster exchanges and cooperation between the two Central African nations on the protection of intellectual property rights for creators. This initiative aligns with broader efforts across the continent to strengthen and harmonize legal frameworks to combat piracy and support the growth of creative industries.

Councillors in the South African city of Tshwane have formally written off R5.3 million in assets related to a metro police command centre that was never built, according to a report in The Star. The decision comes after the project, which was part of a plan from a previous administration over the last decade, failed to be implemented. The move to write off the unimplemented assets has been condemned by councillors, who have raised concerns about accountability and the failure to deliver the critical safety facility.

More than 1,000 marimba players from South Africa and Zimbabwe are set to gather at the GrandWest Grand Arena on August 2, 2025, in an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the Largest Marimba Ensemble, as per a report in The Star. The event is being held to celebrate the shared cultural unity and musical heritage between the two nations.

Residents of Okahandja, Namibia, protested on Thursday over poor service delivery in the town's informal settlements, according to a report in The Namibian. Demonstrators gathered in front of the municipality building to demand accountability for allegedly 'missing' Oshetu funds and to raise concerns about municipal debt practices. A petition outlining these grievances was handed over to John //Khmuseb, the Governor of the Otjozondjupa Region.

Ethiopia launched a national campaign on Thursday with the goal of planting 700 million tree seedlings in a single day, as per a report in AP. The effort is part of a broader conservation initiative that aims to plant 50 billion trees by 2026, a project that has been underway since 2019. Tesfahun Gobezay, identified as the state minister for the Ethiopian Government Communication Services, told reporters that by early Thursday morning, approximately 355 million seedlings had already been planted by 14.9 million Ethiopians.

A court in South Africa has ordered former African National Congress (ANC) MP Boy Mamabolo to be barred from using Facebook, Mail & Guardian says in a report. The ruling also prohibits Mamabolo from publishing any defamatory statements concerning Polokwane mayor John Mpe and his family on any social media platform. This legal action stems from a dispute between the two political figures over online content.

Songezo Zibi, the leader of the South African political party Rise Mzansi, stated the party has lost millions of rand in funding because of its stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict, according to a report in Daily Maverick. The statement highlights the financial repercussions for the new political party, which gained parliamentary representation following the May 2024 national elections, for adopting a specific policy position on the sensitive international issue that has alienated some of its financial backers.

South Sudan's main opposition party is facing a significant internal crisis after a current government minister was named as its interim chairman, Africa News said in a report. The appointment has triggered concerns over the party's independence and its ability to function as an effective opposition. This development is viewed as a potential threat to the country's fragile peace process and the power-sharing arrangements established under the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity, as it could weaken political checks and balances.

Ghana's central bank has lowered its main interest rate by 3%, a move it attributes to growing confidence in the country's disinflation trend, Africa News says in a report. The bank stated that the reduction reflects the fact that consumer prices have been falling faster than previously anticipated. This decision marks a significant policy shift following a period where the bank had implemented aggressive rate hikes to combat soaring inflation.

Nelson Chamisa, leader of Zimbabwe's main opposition party, the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), has resigned from his position, Africa News said in a report. Chamisa stated his party had been "hijacked" by President Emmerson Mnangagwa's ruling ZANU-PF party. This move follows a series of controversial recalls of elected CCC Members of Parliament and councillors, which were initiated by a rival faction within the party. These recalls, which critics allege were orchestrated by ZANU-PF and subsequently upheld by Zimbabwean courts, significantly weakened the opposition's presence in parliament and local government following the disputed 2023 general elections.

Chad has appointed former opposition leader Succes Masra as prime minister of its new transitional government, a move described as a blend of continuity and change, Africa News says in a report. Masra, who leads the Les Transformateurs party, was a vocal critic of the Transitional Military Council (CMT) and returned from exile following a reconciliation agreement. The CMT, led by Mahamat Déby Itno, has governed Chad since taking power in April 2021 after the death of former President Idriss Déby Itno, and is expected to retain significant influence.

The World Food Programme (WFP) and the International Trade Centre (ITC) have initiated a collaborative project aimed at transforming local food systems in the Fonis region of The Gambia, according to a report in The Point. The initiative seeks to create a more holistic food system by improving how food is produced, processed, distributed, and consumed in the area. The project's goals include strengthening local agricultural production, enhancing market access for farmers, and building resilience against food shortages and climate-related challenges, aligning with broader national and international goals for food security.

An official from an opposition party in Tanzania has died following a fatal acid attack, Africa News said in a report.

Gambian President Adama Barrow has issued a call for increased regional solidarity to confront the growing governance challenges in Africa's Sahel region, according to a report in The Point. His statement comes amid a backdrop of significant instability, including recent military coups and the withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from the ECOWAS regional bloc. Barrow's appeal emphasizes the need for a coordinated effort among West African states to tackle issues such as weak state institutions, corruption, and escalating insurgencies that undermine regional security and development.

The self-declared republic of Somaliland has formally offered the United States a military base and access to its mineral resources in exchange for diplomatic recognition of its sovereignty, Africa News says in a report. Somaliland, which declared its independence from Somalia in 1991, has maintained relative stability and functions as a de facto state but has not been officially recognized by any country. The offer is positioned as a strategic opportunity for the U.S. in the Horn of Africa, particularly for counter-terrorism operations and to counter growing influence from other global powers in the vital Red Sea region.

Gambian presidential aspirant Essa Faal has declared his intention to initiate a legal challenge over the country's 1 million Dalasi (D1M) presidential nomination fee, according to a report in The Point. Faal's planned lawsuit will contest the legality of the fee set by the electoral commission, arguing it may be an unconstitutional barrier to political participation. The challenge raises questions about democratic inclusivity and the financial requirements for candidates seeking to run for president in The Gambia's upcoming election cycle.

Lejeune Mbella Mbella, Cameroon's Minister of External Relations (Minrex), formally received the new Spanish diplomat, Perez-Gomez Delaunay, in an official welcome ceremony, as per a report in Cameroon Tribune. The reception marks the beginning of the new envoy's diplomatic mission in Cameroon, reinforcing the ongoing bilateral relationship between the two nations.

Gambia and Senegal are advancing plans to 'domesticate' the air route between their respective capitals, Banjul and Dakar, according to a report in The Point. The initiative, involving Senegal's national carrier Air Senegal, aims to establish a more frequent and streamlined service, treating the international route similarly to a domestic one to ease travel for business and tourism. This development aligns with broader Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) goals for regional integration and is expected to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties, boost Gambia's economy, and support Senegal's ambitions to establish a major West African aviation hub.

South Africa's Stellenbosch FC is preparing to continue its domestic success under coach Steve Barker, even after losing key players during the off-season, according to a report in The Star. The club aims to build on recent cup victories, while newly promoted Siwelele FC is focused on establishing stability and a clear team identity as it prepares for its inaugural season in the country's top-flight Premier Soccer League (PSL).

A sub-regional institute for statistics and applied economics located in Cameroon has graduated 62 new professionals, according to a report in Cameroon Tribune. The new graduates, specialized in statistics and applied economics, are now entering the job market to serve the public and private sectors within the Central African sub-region.

Rwanda is expected to receive between 0 and 100 millimetres of rainfall during August, with a slight increase projected for the last ten days of the month, according to a report in The New Times. The forecast was issued by the Rwanda Meteorology Agency and provides crucial data for national planning, particularly within the country's agricultural sector.

Kenya's Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, commended the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) for arresting several activists, according to a report in Standard Media Kenya. Murkomen expressed concern over individuals who were allegedly displaying sophisticated weapons and making inflammatory statements online. The government has characterized the actions of the arrested individuals as "posing as militia," and the arrests reflect a crackdown on what officials view as threats to national security.

South Africa is set for a cold and wet weekend as a significant cold front approaches the country, The Star says in a report. The weather system is expected to bring rain and chilly temperatures to various regions, according to the forecast.

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has revealed the fight card for its upcoming championship event to be held at Carnival City in Johannesburg, according to a report in The Star. Following a successful inaugural event in Cape Town, the PFL Africa series will conclude its season in Johannesburg, where the league's first African champions are set to be crowned.

Laina Mwatukange has been selected to represent Namibia at the third international Universal Woman Pageant, The Namibian says in a report. The event is scheduled to take place from August 1 to 11 in Jaipur, India. The pageant, which is open to women aged 21 to 45, operates under the theme ‘The New Era of Beauty’ and aims to celebrate women's confidence, leadership, and social contributions.

The August fuel price outlook for South Africa presents a mixed forecast, with petrol prices expected to decrease while diesel costs are set to rise significantly, according to a report in The Star. The expected drop in petrol prices offers some relief to private motorists. However, the substantial increase in the price of diesel, which is the primary fuel for commercial transport, agriculture, and industry, is anticipated to raise operational costs across the economy, potentially increasing prices for food and other essential goods.

China's ambassador to South Africa met with the president of a bilateral association (BCFA) to discuss enhancing people-to-people relations, according to a report in the Daily Sun. Such relations focus on non-governmental exchanges, including cultural programs, tourism, and educational initiatives, to build goodwill. The meeting follows other recent high-level diplomatic engagements between the two nations, including a state visit by President Xi Jinping in August 2023 and a visit by China's Foreign Minister in January 2024.

Ten municipalities in South Africa have not paid their employees since April, sparking concerns about widespread governance and financial management failures, as per a report in The Star. The affected local governments are spread across five provinces: KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State, North West, Mpumalanga, and the Northern Cape. This prolonged inability to meet payroll obligations highlights systemic financial distress within these municipalities.

An undocumented immigrant, Christian Tchizungu Kwigomba, was prevented from receiving care during a hospital visit in South Africa by a vigilante group enforcing its own mandate against foreign nationals, The Star said in a report. The incident highlights growing tensions over healthcare access for immigrants and the emergence of groups taking direct action to block them from public services. This action raises questions regarding South Africa's constitutional guarantee of access to healthcare services for everyone within its borders and the legality of vigilante groups usurping state functions.

Claudine Dushimimana, a legal professional with over two decades of experience, has been sworn in as the new Chairperson of the Rwanda Law Reform Commission, according to a report in The New Times. In her new role, Dushimimana pledged to focus on increasing legal literacy among the public. The commission is an independent public institution tasked with reviewing and updating existing laws and proposing new legislation to the Rwandan government and parliament.