Daily News Roundup from Africa: Key Updates
Every day, OkayAfrica provides a concise roundup of significant news stories from across the continent, covering a range of topics from culture to politics. Here’s a closer look at some of the most pressing stories currently shaping Africa.
South Africa’s Police Minister on Leave Amid Scandal
In a dramatic turn of events, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has placed Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on immediate leave. This decision follows serious allegations made by Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the police commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal, who accused Mchunu of interfering in investigations and protecting a criminal syndicate. Mchunu allegedly disbanded a task force investigating political killings and halted over 100 case files. While he denies these accusations, the scandal has raised alarm over political interference in law enforcement. In response, Ramaphosa has initiated a judicial commission of inquiry led by Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, with lawyer Firoz Cachalia stepping in as acting police minister. The situation has prompted calls for a parliamentary investigation from the Democratic Alliance and other opposition parties.
Paul Biya’s Continued Rule in Cameroon
At 92 years old, Paul Biya, Cameroon’s president since 1982, has confirmed his candidacy for another term in the upcoming elections scheduled for October 12. His announcement, made via social media platform X, comes amid growing concerns about his health and the state of democracy in Cameroon. Critics argue that Biya’s long tenure has hindered both democratic and economic progress, with increasing calls for reform. As the election approaches, opposition figures, including Maurice Kamto and Cabral Libii, are rallying support against him, highlighting the urgent need for new leadership amid rising insecurity and economic challenges.
France Returns Stolen Cultural Heritage to Côte d’Ivoire
In a significant cultural restitution, French lawmakers have unanimously approved the return of the Djidji Ayôkwé talking drum to Côte d’Ivoire, over a century after it was taken during colonial rule. Weighing 430 kilograms, this drum was historically used for long-distance communication. Its return is seen as a long-overdue act of justice, with Ivorian officials celebrating the decision as a symbolic liberation. The law overrides France’s previous ban on removing items from public collections, mandating that the drum be returned within a year.
Central African Republic Delays Local Elections Again
The Central African Republic has postponed its long-overdue local and municipal elections to December, citing funding delays and technical issues. Originally scheduled for August, these elections are now set to coincide with legislative and presidential polls. Opposition groups are demanding electoral reforms and dialogue with President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, who has been in power since 2016. The elections, first planned nearly 40 years ago, are critical for strengthening democracy in a nation still recovering from years of conflict.
Sudan Faces Cholera Crisis Amid Ongoing Conflict
Sudan is grappling with a severe cholera outbreak, with over 84,000 infections and more than 2,100 deaths reported. The ongoing conflict between the army and the Rapid Support Forces has crippled the healthcare system, exacerbating the crisis. Contaminated water and deteriorating sanitation services are fueling the outbreak, particularly in conflict-affected areas like Darfur. Aid workers warn of catastrophic consequences as the rainy season approaches, with the UN estimating that over 33 million people are at risk if urgent action is not taken.
U.S. Funding Cuts Halt HIV Vaccine Trials in South Africa
South Africa’s promising HIV vaccine trial, known as BRILLIANT, has been halted following the withdrawal of $46 million in U.S. funding by the Trump administration. This cut is part of broader reductions affecting HIV and TB programs across the country, resulting in the loss of 8,000 health worker jobs and jeopardizing critical research efforts. Researchers warn that these cuts threaten to undermine progress in a country with one of the highest HIV rates globally, putting both scientific leadership and young talent at risk.
Violence in Eastern DRC: ADF Attack Claims 66 Lives
In a brutal attack in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo’s Ituri province, at least 66 civilians were killed by rebels from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a group linked to ISIS. The victims, many of whom were women, were attacked with machetes in Irumu territory. This violence is believed to be in retaliation for recent joint military operations by Congo and Uganda against the ADF. The region remains volatile, even as peace talks with M23 rebels offer a glimmer of hope elsewhere.
Nigeria Sentences 44 for Funding Boko Haram
A Nigerian court has sentenced 44 individuals to prison terms ranging from 10 to 30 years for financing Boko Haram, the jihadist group responsible for years of violence in West Africa. This mass sentencing occurred at special courts on a military base in Niger State, part of ongoing terrorism trials that have resulted in 785 convictions since 2017. Boko Haram’s insurgency has led to tens of thousands of deaths and millions displaced since its emergence in 2002.
U.S. Visa Validity for Ugandans Reduced
In a recent policy shift, the U.S. has reduced the validity of non-immigrant visas for Ugandans to just three months, down from the previous two years or more. This change, confirmed by the U.S. Embassy in Kampala, has raised concerns about increased travel costs and disrupted plans. Similar measures have been applied to Nigeria and Ghana, leading to speculation about potential diplomatic repercussions.
These stories reflect the complex and dynamic landscape of Africa today, highlighting both challenges and significant developments across the continent. For more in-depth coverage, be sure to check out OkayAfrica’s News page.
