Africa News Live Updates: Welcome to our live blog covering the latest from across Africa. Track the continent’s evolving stance on global affairs and its efforts to tackle internal and external challenges
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Welcome to today’s Africa Live Blog, where we bring you the latest developments shaping the continent. One of our lead stories this morning is a major breakthrough in global health: the approval of the first-ever malaria treatment specifically designed for newborn babies. With Africa bearing the brunt of global malaria deaths—particularly among children—this milestone marks a crucial step forward in safeguarding the continent’s most vulnerable. Elsewhere in South Africa, homeowners are facing mounting costs and regulatory hurdles as they transition to solar power in response to ongoing load shedding. We’re also following a sombre update from Stellenbosch University, where the death of a second-year student has shaken the campus community. In the legal arena, a woman has won a significant court case over her late husband’s Eskom pension, highlighting the complexities of beneficiary rights. And in the housing market, a slow but steady recovery is taking shape amid more favourable economic conditions. Stay with us for updates, insights, and the latest news from across the continent:
Africa on the move
Africa News Live Updates: Welcome to our live blog covering the latest from across Africa. Track the continent’s evolving stance on global affairs and its efforts to tackle internal and external challenges
Nigerian politician Valentine Ozigbo leads procession in defiance of police order in Anambra
Nigerian politician Valentine Ozigbo, also known as VDM, led a candlelight procession in Awka, Anambra State, on Tuesday in defiance of a police warning, according to a report in Premium Times. The procession, which began at Aroma Junction, was staged despite an order from the state’s Police Command against the gathering. Ozigbo was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the 2021 Anambra State governorship election, and the event highlights ongoing political tensions in the region concerning the right to assembly and state security directives.
Nigeria's FCC seeks legislative backing to enforce equity in governance
Nigeria’s Federal Character Commission (FCC) is requesting stronger legislative support to better enforce its mandate of ensuring equity and inclusiveness in government operations, as per a report in Premium Times. The commission stated that its work is being hindered by a lack of cooperation from some federal agencies and state governments that resist its oversight. The FCC, which is responsible for implementing Nigeria’s ‘federal character’ principle, aims to secure more authority to compel compliance with rules designed for equitable representation in public appointments and resource distribution.
Cameroon's constitutional council bars opposition leader from presidential election
Cameroon’s Constitutional Council has officially barred opposition leader Maurice Kamto from the country’s October presidential election, Africanews said in a report. The council delivered its ruling on Tuesday, rejecting Kamto’s appeal on the grounds that it was “lacking legal justification”. This decision effectively removes a key challenger to incumbent President Paul Biya.
Over 20 socially owned renewable energy projects identified in South Africa
Research has identified over 20 socially owned renewable energy projects operating across South Africa, despite the absence of an official government registry for these initiatives, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. These projects, distinct from state-owned or large private ventures, are typically managed by community groups or non-profits as a decentralised response to the country’s severe and ongoing energy crisis. While their current contribution to the national energy supply is minor, they represent a growing model of local empowerment and energy self-reliance.
Charity Commission criticises Prince Harry for public dispute at Sentebale
The UK’s Charity Commission has criticised Prince Harry, chair Sophie Chandauka, and other trustees of the Sentebale charity for allowing an internal dispute to “play out publicly,” according to a report in The Guardian. The public disagreement occurred earlier in the year following Prince Harry’s resignation as a patron of the African charity he co-founded. While the watchdog rebuked all parties for their public conduct, its report also cleared Prince Harry of racism allegations that had arisen from the row.
Former Nigerian president calls for support for traditional medicine and a continental health fund
A former Nigerian president has urged for increased support for traditional medicine and the creation of a continental health fund for Africa, according to a report in Premium Times. The call to action was made during a summit that convened current and former heads of state, along with global health advocates and development partners, to discuss health-related issues on the continent.
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Gabon cave discovery sheds light on 27,000 years of human adaptation
Archaeologists working in Gabon have unearthed significant artifacts, including tools, pottery, and teeth, from forest caves that date back to approximately 25,000 BC, as per a report in France 24. The discovery provides new insights into 27,000 years of human history in the region. These findings are considered important for understanding how ancient human populations adapted to significant climate shifts during prehistoric times.
Nigeria's EFCC appeals partial acquittal of former health insurance chief in $2.2m money laundering case
Nigeria’s anti-graft agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has appealed the partial acquittal of a former National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) chief, Mr Thomas, in a $2.2 million money laundering case, Premium Times reports. The EFCC has petitioned the Court of Appeal to overturn the lower court’s judgment and convict the former official on five specific counts—1, 2, 3, 4, and 7—on which he had been acquitted.
Nigeria's petroleum authority unifies regulations for midstream and downstream sectors
Nigeria’s Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has initiated a consolidation of regulations to streamline the country’s petroleum sector, according to a report in Premium Times. This strategic move, which builds upon the framework of the 2021 Petroleum Industry Act, aims to eliminate operational complexities and inconsistencies, thereby creating a more predictable and attractive environment for investment. The unification is seen by analysts as a critical step following the recent removal of fuel subsidies, intended to enhance transparency and efficiency. For industry operators, this could reduce compliance costs and bureaucratic hurdles, although it will also function alongside new fee structures like the Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Fees Regulations 2024. The success of the reform is considered contingent on robust and transparent implementation to effectively tackle long-standing governance issues within the sector.
Police in Nigeria arrest suspects in rape, cultism, and armed robbery case
Police in Nigeria have arrested multiple suspects for their alleged involvement in rape, cultism, and armed robbery, Premium Times said in a report. The arrests are connected to an incident where a female lodging in a guest house was allegedly raped by the suspects.
Nigeria reports 155 deaths from Lassa fever in 2025 as fatality rate exceeds 2024 level
Nigeria is facing a significant Lassa fever outbreak in 2025, with 155 deaths recorded from 822 confirmed cases, as per a report in Premium Times. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) stated that the disease has spread across 21 states and 105 Local Government Areas. The data indicates a worsening situation, as the case fatality rate for the current year has now surpassed that of 2024.
Nigeria wins 25 medals at inaugural African School Games, secures 2027 hosting rights
Nigeria won a total of 25 medals at the inaugural African School Games and secured the hosting rights for the 2027 edition of the event, according to a report in Premium Times. The country’s medal tally for the Olympic-styled competition included 6 gold, 10 silver, and 9 bronze medals across 10 different sports.
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Lagos exclusive breastfeeding rate reaches 57.4 per cent, officials note low early initiation
The exclusive breastfeeding rate in Lagos State has reached 57.4 per cent, a development with positive implications for the region’s long-term economic health, Premium Times said in a report. An official, Ms Ogunyemi, confirmed the figure but also highlighted a significant challenge: the rate of early breastfeeding initiation within the first hour of birth remains low at 14 per cent. The state government has affirmed it is working to address this gap. From an economic perspective, improvements in breastfeeding rates are linked to reduced public healthcare expenditure due to lower childhood illness and contribute to the development of a more productive future workforce, justifying investment in maternal and child health programmes.
US senate considers review of Kenya's major non-NATO ally status
The United States Senate has been formally asked to review Kenya’s designation as a Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA), a status granted in May 2024, according to a report in Standard Media. The request is based on allegations that President William Ruto’s government has engaged in human rights abuses and has connections to “rogue armed groups.” This development puts the strategic partnership between the US and Kenya under scrutiny, potentially jeopardising the military and economic benefits associated with MNNA status. A review could strain bilateral relations, impacting joint counter-terrorism efforts and future economic cooperation.
New investigation into Tunisian opposition leader heightens economic uncertainty
Tunisian authorities have opened a new investigation into Rached Ghannouchi, leader of the prominent opposition party Ennahdha, further intensifying the country’s political crisis and amplifying economic headwinds, as per a report in Africanews. This legal action is the latest step in a broader consolidation of power by President Kais Saied, which began in mid-2021 with the suspension of parliament. From a market perspective, the persistent targeting of opposition figures deepens political instability, a key factor that deters foreign direct investment and complicates Tunisia’s relationship with international lenders and Western partners. The move signals an increasingly unpredictable business environment, which could harm vital sectors and undermine efforts for economic recovery. This development reinforces concerns among investors about democratic backsliding and the erosion of the rule of law, further clouding Tunisia’s sovereign risk profile and its ability to secure necessary foreign aid.
Tanzania's political liberalisation seen boosting investor confidence as opposition plans nationwide rallies
Following the lifting of a political rally ban by President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government, Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chadema, has announced plans for a comprehensive outreach campaign intended to reach every ward and village in the country, Africanews says in a report. This move is viewed by economic analysts as a significant step towards reducing political risk and improving the business climate. The increased political openness, a clear departure from the more restrictive policies of the previous administration, is expected to bolster investor confidence and potentially attract greater foreign direct investment by signalling a return to a more stable and predictable political environment.
Main opposition hopeful in Egypt withdraws from presidential race
The main opposition hopeful in Egypt has abandoned the presidential race, a move that significantly clears the path for the re-election of incumbent President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, Africanews said in a report. The withdrawal is a major setback for Egypt’s fragmented opposition and occurs within a political climate characterised by a sustained crackdown on dissent since 2013. This development reinforces the government’s control over the political landscape, a situation which international observers and human rights groups view as evidence of a deteriorating democratic space. The event is consistent with past elections where potential challengers have withdrawn, citing pressure and an uneven playing field, further cementing a political environment that prioritises stability over open competition amidst ongoing economic difficulties.
Gabon's President Ali Bongo delays announcement for third presidential bid
President Ali Bongo of Gabon has postponed the announcement of his candidacy for a third presidential term, creating a climate of political uncertainty that could affect investor confidence in the oil-dependent nation, Africanews says in a report. The delay raises questions about stability, particularly given the Bongo family’s rule since 1967, a history of contentious elections, and the president’s past health issues. For the Gabonese economy, which relies heavily on oil revenues, analysts note that prolonged ambiguity or a contentious electoral process elevates the risk of political instability, a key concern for foreign direct investment and overall market sentiment.
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Zimbabwean opposition leader Nelson Chamisa departs from CCC party citing infiltration
Prominent Zimbabwean opposition leader Nelson Chamisa has left the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party, which he founded in 2022, as per a report in Africanews. Chamisa asserted that the party has been “hijacked” and contaminated by the ruling ZANU-PF party. This decision follows a period of internal turmoil, most notably the controversial recalls of numerous CCC Members of Parliament and councillors initiated by Sengezo Tshabangu, who claimed the title of the party’s interim secretary-general. These recalls, which Chamisa’s faction deemed illegitimate, significantly weakened the opposition’s presence in parliament following the disputed 2023 general elections.
Tanzanian opposition official dies after acid attack
An opposition official in Tanzania has died after being targeted in an acid attack, Africanews says in a report. The fatal assault is being viewed as a significant escalation of political violence and occurs within a context of what observers have described as a shrinking democratic space and increased pressure on opposition figures in the country. The attack contributes to a climate of fear and highlights the risks faced by political activists in the nation.
Tunisian political tensions rise as opposition decries pre-election restrictions, raising stability concerns
Opposition parties in Tunisia have denounced political restrictions ahead of legislative elections, escalating concerns over the country’s political stability and its potential impact on investor confidence, according to a report in Africanews. The denunciation points to a challenging political environment under President Kais Saied, which analysts suggest is eroding democratic institutions and creating uncertainty. For businesses and investors, this democratic backsliding signifies heightened political risk, potentially impacting foreign investment and the country’s relationship with international financial partners. The restrictions are seen as a move to consolidate power, which could lead to further public discontent and delegitimise the election’s outcome, posing a significant risk to Tunisia’s economic outlook.
Namibia moves towards an independent football league for 2026/27 season
Namibia is advancing plans to establish an autonomous top-tier football league, with a target launch for the 2026/27 season, The Namibian says in a report. Following a meeting between the Namibia Football Association (NFA) and club representatives, NFA spokesperson Isack Hamata confirmed there is an “urgency” to grant the Namibia Premier Football League operational and financial independence. This strategic shift aims to professionalise the league by giving clubs direct control over commercial operations, governance, and revenue generation. The move is seen as a critical step towards improving financial transparency and attracting significant sponsorship and investment, aligning with a broader continental trend of commercialising national football leagues to enhance their economic viability and sustainability.
Nigeria to pivot HIV response to domestic funding via health insurance and local drug production
Nigeria’s National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) is targeting the integration of HIV care into national health insurance schemes and the promotion of local drug manufacturing to ensure the long-term sustainability of its response, as per a report in Premium Times. Acknowledging that reliance on international donor funding is no longer a viable long-term strategy for Africa’s largest economy, this policy pivot aims to build a self-sufficient domestic funding mechanism. The move has significant economic implications, presenting a major opportunity for investment and growth in Nigeria’s domestic pharmaceutical industry while aligning with the country’s broader goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage. However, the success of the initiative is contingent on the effective expansion of health insurance coverage to ensure equitable access to treatment for all patients.
Rwandan parliament gives education board three months to distribute over 13,000 textbooks
Members of Parliament in Rwanda have issued a three-month deadline to the Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB) for the distribution of 13,247 textbooks, The New Times says in a report. The directive aims to address what lawmakers described as persistent gaps in the availability of learning materials for students. This parliamentary action places pressure on the government agency to improve its logistical efficiency and ensure educational resources reach schools in a timely manner.
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Nehawu raises concerns over private healthcare's impact on South Africa's public system
South Africa’s National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (NEHAWU) has voiced concerns over the interplay between the public and private healthcare sectors, highlighting the significant strain on public resources and the high costs associated with private care, The Star says in a report. These concerns are amplified as the country awaits presidential assent for the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill, which seeks to reform the current two-tiered system. The union’s position underscores the broader issue of governmental fiscal challenges and budgetary constraints that underfund public services, making it more difficult for the public health system to manage demand and maintain quality.
Rwandan education board given three-month deadline to distribute 13,000 textbooks
Members of Parliament in Rwanda have given the Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB) a three-month deadline to distribute 13,247 textbooks currently held in storage, The New Times says in a report. The directive aims to resolve persistent gaps in learning materials available to students, a key issue impacting the country’s educational quality. This parliamentary action places significant pressure on the REB to demonstrate efficiency and improve its supply chain logistics, highlighting a broader focus on public sector accountability and the effective implementation of national development strategies.
Sekhukhune United coach targets top-three finish and CAF return
Eric Tinkler, the coach of South African football club Sekhukhune United, has stated his ambition for the team to achieve a top-three finish in the current season, The Star says in a report. The primary objective behind this goal is to secure a spot for the club to compete again in the CAF Confederation Cup, a continental competition.
South African police storage crisis highlights governance and resource challenges
Police authorities in South Africa’s capital are urgently seeking land to manage an overflow of seized vehicles, which have turned police stations into makeshift impound lots, Daily Sun says in a report. This logistical crisis, attributed to high crime rates overwhelming existing capacity, points to deeper systemic issues of underfunding, inefficient resource allocation, and a lack of strategic planning within the country’s public services. For investors and businesses, the situation serves as a visible indicator of governance challenges and operational weaknesses in state institutions, potentially impacting public confidence and the perceived stability of the administrative environment.
Rwanda's formal industrial output rises 8.5% in June
Rwanda’s formal sector industrial output recorded a year-on-year increase of 8.5 per cent for June 2025, The New Times says in a report. The new figures were released by the country’s National Institute of Statistics.
Boko Haram faction establishes presence near Nigeria's capital by tolerating bandits, report finds
A cell of the Boko Haram faction known as JAS has entrenched itself in Nigeria’s Shiroro Local Government Area, which is in proximity to the capital, Abuja, according to a report in ISS Africa. The report indicates the group has adopted a flexible, pragmatic strategy that involves tolerating local bandits and their criminal activities. This approach allows the JAS cell to leverage existing criminal networks, expand its influence, and increase its operational flexibility, representing a significant evolution of the security threat in Nigeria’s North-Central region.
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Kigali to host African Securities Exchanges Association conference in November 2025
The Rwanda Stock Exchange has announced that Kigali will host the African Securities Exchanges Association (ASEA) Annual Conference from November 26 to 28, 2025, according to a report in The New Times. The event aligns with a broader continental strategy to deepen capital markets and foster economic integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The conference is expected to provide a platform for discussing regulatory harmonisation, technology adoption, and strategies to attract greater domestic and foreign investment into Africa’s stock exchanges.
Morayo Afolabi-Brown to depart TVC's 'Your View' after 12 years
Prominent Nigerian media personality Morayo Afolabi-Brown is departing as the host of the talk show ‘Your View’ after a 12-year tenure, Premium Times says in a report. The departure marks a significant shift for the broadcaster, Television Continental (TVC), which praised her contributions. This development is notable within Nigeria’s current media landscape, which is closely watched following recent elections. Given the programme’s focus on political and social issues, the exit of its long-serving host has business implications for TVC regarding its future direction, editorial stance, and viewership.
Ugandan student jailed over anti-Museveni TikTok video
A Ugandan student has been jailed for posting a TikTok video critical of President Yoweri Museveni, an incident that could affect international relations and foreign aid, according to a report in BBC. The political opposition alleges the undergraduate was abducted and tortured prior to the court appearance, where the student pleaded for forgiveness. The event is viewed as part of a broader government suppression of dissent, particularly online expression, which elevates political risk and may draw further scrutiny from international partners and donor nations concerned about the rule of law.
Mamelodi Sundowns coach driven to defend Premiership championship
Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has stated his ambition to build upon the club’s historic championship triumph from the previous season as the team begins its Betway Premiership title defence, according to a report in The Star. The campaign for the team, known as the Brazilians, commences with an away match against Chippa United.
Nigerian president signs new law to regulate insurance sector
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed the new Nigerian Insurance Industry Regulatory Act (NIIRA) 2025 into law, which is designed to overhaul the country’s insurance sector, Premium Times says in a report. The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) is now mandated to implement the law’s provisions, which are a key part of the president’s wider economic reform agenda. This legislative update is expected to enhance regulation, align the sector with international best practices, and improve consumer protection. For the insurance industry, the act is anticipated to increase compliance requirements but also create opportunities for growth and improve public trust, ultimately aiming to boost investor confidence and strengthen Nigeria’s financial stability.
Nigeria's NHRC, Taiwanese office and CSOs partner to support indigent victims
Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has partnered with the Taipei Trade Office and local Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to provide support for indigent victims, Premium Times says in a report. The initiative is aimed at assisting individuals impacted by the country’s various humanitarian crises, such as internal displacement from conflict and banditry. This collaboration highlights the role of the NHRC in protecting human rights and also serves as an act of ‘soft diplomacy’ by Taiwan, which maintains a de facto embassy in Nigeria under the name Taipei Trade Office.
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Nicaraguan embassy in South Africa commemorates 46th anniversary of Sandinista revolution
The Embassy of Nicaragua in South Africa held an event in Pretoria to commemorate the 46th anniversary of the Sandinista Popular Revolution, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. The celebration, hosted at the embassy’s Waterkloof premises, was attended by a range of international and local dignitaries. Present at the event were ambassadors and diplomats from nations including Cuba, Venezuela, Russia, Iran, the Sahrawi Republic, and Vietnam. Representatives from South African political organisations such as the ANC and the SACP, along with local youth groups, also participated in the commemoration.
Indecision over 37 death row inmates in Nigeria's Bauchi state highlights governance issues
A total of 37 inmates on death row in Bauchi state, Nigeria, remain in legal limbo as the state governor has yet to either sign their execution warrants or commute their sentences, Premium Times said in a report. This protracted indecision underscores significant challenges within Nigeria’s judicial and penal systems, including prison overcrowding and the practical implications of an unofficial moratorium on capital punishment. From an economic perspective, such delays in the rule of law can be perceived by international investors as a sign of governance risk. The situation may also attract scrutiny from human rights organisations, potentially impacting Nigeria’s standing with international partners and investment bodies that prioritise environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria.
Lawyer petitions Nigeria's broadcast regulator to ban BBNaija, issues 30-day ultimatum
A lawyer in Nigeria has filed a formal petition with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), demanding it ban the popular reality television show Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) within 30 days, Premium Times said in a report. The petition accuses the regulatory body of failing to act against what the lawyer describes as “real-time pornography” being broadcast on national television and social media. The complaint calls for the NBC to enforce its broadcasting codes regarding indecency and public morality.
Ecobank Group sells Mozambican subsidiary to Malawian lender
Pan-African banking firm Ecobank Group has finalised the sale of its Mozambican subsidiary to a Malawian lender, according to a report in Premium Times. The transaction involves Ecobank Mozambique, which operates four branches providing services such as consumer banking, bancassurance, and microfinance. This divestment is part of a broader trend of strategic realignment among major African financial institutions, potentially reflecting a move by Ecobank to consolidate its resources in core markets or mitigate risks. The acquisition by a Malawian entity highlights growing intra-African investment and financial integration, aligning with the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and representing a significant regional expansion for Malawi’s banking sector.
Welcome to today’s Africa Live Blog, where we bring you the latest developments shaping the continent. One of our lead stories this morning is a major breakthrough in global health: the approval of the first-ever malaria treatment specifically designed for newborn babies. With Africa bearing the brunt of global malaria deaths—particularly among children—this milestone marks a crucial step forward in safeguarding the continent’s most vulnerable.
Elsewhere in South Africa, homeowners are facing mounting costs and regulatory hurdles as they transition to solar power in response to ongoing load shedding. We’re also following a sombre update from Stellenbosch University, where the death of a second-year student has shaken the campus community. In the legal arena, a woman has won a significant court case over her late husband’s Eskom pension, highlighting the complexities of beneficiary rights. And in the housing market, a slow but steady recovery is taking shape amid more favourable economic conditions.
Stay with us for updates, insights, and the latest news from across the continent:
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