Sudan: Civilian-Led Resolution Urged Ahead of Washington Talks
A major Sudanese political alliance, the SPLM–Revolutionary Democratic Current, has warned that establishing a rival government to the Port Sudan-based authority could trigger a prolonged “Libya-style” conflict. In a statement ahead of a U.S.-led Quadrilateral Meeting with Egypt, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, the group called for prioritizing a civilian-led peace process. They outlined a two-stage approach: an immediate humanitarian ceasefire followed by a final settlement centered on democratic civilian leadership and domestic resource-led reconstruction. (Source: Sudan Tribune)
Yale Report Confirms RSF Massacre in North Kordofan
The Yale Humanitarian Research Lab has corroborated reports of a massacre by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Shaq El Noum, North Kordofan. Satellite imagery from mid-July confirms widespread destruction. Local reports estimate up to 200 civilians killed, including women and children. The RSF reportedly used drones and heavy weapons, and engaged in looting and further attacks in nearby areas. El Obeid now hosts over 30,000 displaced persons. (Source: Sudan Tribune / Dabanga)
Nigeria: Over 100 Abducted in Zamfara State Attack
Gunmen killed at least six and abducted more than 100 people—mainly women and children—in Zamfara State’s Kairu community. Local sources say attackers besieged the village for nearly two hours. Thousands have fled. Zamfara remains a hotspot for armed banditry, with rural insecurity worsening across northwest Nigeria. (Source: Reuters)
Wagner Mercenary Killed in Mali Amid Ongoing Russian Operations
Igor Nesterov, a Russian mercenary and former boxing coach, was reportedly killed in Mali, according to Ukrainian military intelligence. Linked to the Wagner Group, Nesterov previously fought in Ukraine. Despite claims of withdrawal, Wagner forces continue operations in Mali, facing persistent losses. Wagner has been implicated in widespread human rights abuses across Africa. (Source: Kyiv Independent)
Somalia’s President Visits Turkish Drone Hub Amid Security Struggles
Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh visited Turkey’s Özdemir Bayraktar Technology Center, seeking defense collaboration amid growing challenges from Al-Shabaab. The visit follows recent military and energy agreements with Turkey. Turkish drones are expected to enhance Somalia’s counterterrorism operations. (Source: Garowe Online)
Cameroon: Record 81 Presidential Hopefuls Apply
Cameroon’s elections body has received a record 81 candidate applications for the October 2025 presidential election. Observers cite rising public desire for political change, although President Paul Biya—expected to seek re-election—maintains a strong hold on power, recently reshuffling military leadership. The final list of approved candidates will be announced 60 days before the vote. (Source: Africanews)
Tunisia’s Civil Society Shrinks Under State Pressure
Tunisia’s once-vibrant civil society faces unprecedented repression. Dozens of activists remain imprisoned without charge, offices have been shuttered, and civil society organizations like I Watch operate under surveillance or remotely. Critics say President Saied’s consolidation of power endangers the country’s last democratic gains since the 2011 revolution. (Source: Reuters)
Egypt: Alaa Abdel Fattah Removed from Terror List, Still Detained
An Egyptian court has removed jailed British-Egyptian activist Alaa Abdel Fattah from the country’s terrorism list, lifting associated restrictions. However, his continued detention—despite finishing a five-year sentence in 2023—casts doubt on whether the decision will lead to his release. (Source: AFP)
Sierra Leone: Sea Cucumber Overfishing Devastates Banana Islands
Sierra Leonean divers say sea cucumber stocks off the Banana Islands have been decimated by overfishing driven by Chinese trade demand. Promised infrastructure improvements from traders never materialized. Marine experts warn of irreversible ecosystem damage as reefs turn lifeless. (Source: Al Jazeera)
Mobile Money Spurs Savings Growth in Sub-Saharan Africa
The World Bank’s 2024 Global Findex report shows formal savings in Sub-Saharan Africa have risen to 35%, driven by mobile money access. Mobile money account ownership rose to 40%, up from 27% in 2021. Experts say digital finance is supporting financial inclusion and economic stability. (Source: Semafor)
Clean Cooking Transition Could Save 4.7 Million Lives by 2040
Transitioning away from biomass cooking fuels could save 4.7 million African lives by 2040, according to the IEA. Over one billion Africans still use wood, charcoal, or dung, with significant health and environmental consequences. Clean fuel adoption would also improve education, employment, and reduce deforestation. (Source: IEA / RFI)
