1. DR Congo: UN Mission Chief Visits M23-Held Goma
Bintou Keita, head of the UN peacekeeping mission MONUSCO, visited Goma for the first time since its capture by M23 rebels earlier this year. Her three-day visit includes meetings with M23 and AFC alliance representatives to discuss MONUSCO’s mandate, particularly civilian protection. The visit precedes her upcoming UN Security Council briefing on June 27.
2. Mali: Wagner Accused of Torture in Secret Prisons
Investigations by Forbidden Stories and media partners revealed that Russian Wagner mercenaries are operating secret detention centers in Mali, replicating tactics used in Ukraine. Civilians are reportedly subjected to abductions, torture, and enforced disappearances in collaboration with the Malian army.
3. Russia’s AI Disinformation Campaign in Africa Exposed
France’s Viginum agency linked a Russian-run media platform, African Initiative, to AI-generated disinformation targeting Francophone African audiences. The campaign used fake media outlets and content to expand Moscow’s influence following Wagner’s reorganization.
4. Somalia: Al-Shabaab Holds Strategic Territory in Hiran
Al-Shabaab has maintained control over El Hareri village in central Somalia, despite repeated offensives by government forces and clan militias. The group is reportedly preparing to capture more towns in Hiran, escalating instability in the region.
5. Sudan: RSF Drone Strikes Challenge SAF Control in Port Sudan
The RSF has carried out coordinated drone strikes on Port Sudan, revealing major gaps in the Sudanese army’s air defense capabilities. Analysts warn the attacks mark a turning point, with RSF gaining aerial leverage in the ongoing civil conflict.
6. South Sudan: Peace Deal Stalls Amid Violence and Hunger
The UN and RJMEC raised alarms over stalled peace efforts and rising violence in South Sudan, particularly in Upper Nile. Over 130,000 people have been displaced since March. Simultaneously, the IPC warns of famine in conflict-hit areas, with over 32,000 people facing catastrophic hunger.
7. Nigeria: Peaceful #EndBadGovernance Protest in Lagos
A protest in Lagos criticising President Tinubu’s administration concluded peacefully. Demonstrators demanded action on poverty, insecurity, healthcare, and housing. Security forces monitored the event without incident.
8. Kenya: Police Officer Arrested Over Death in Custody
A Kenyan officer was arrested following the custodial death of Albert Ojwang, a government critic. Public outcry and protests ensued amid renewed concerns over police brutality and freedom of expression.
9. China to Remove Tariffs on African Exports
China announced plans to eliminate tariffs on all African exports, extending benefits to middle-income nations. The move is part of broader efforts to rebalance trade and deepen ties, despite China maintaining a major trade surplus with the continent.
10. Ivory Coast: Opposition Candidates Blocked from Presidential Race
Four key opposition figures, including Tidjane Thiam and Laurent Gbagbo, have been barred from contesting the October 25 presidential election. The opposition is considering a boycott amid growing concerns over political exclusion and the legitimacy of the upcoming vote.
Prepared for strategic and diplomatic review. Updated as of 13 June 2025.
