South Africa: Inflation Edges Up on Food Prices
South Africa’s annual headline inflation rose slightly in April to 2.8%, up 10 basis points from the previous month, driven primarily by rising food prices. This modest increase comes amid continued concerns about consumer price pressures in key sectors.
Africa’s Critical Minerals at a Crossroads
Africa holds significant reserves of critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, graphite, platinum, and bauxite, all essential to modern technologies and clean energy transitions. However, a history of extractive instability—commonly referred to as the “resource curse”—has left many African nations vulnerable to corruption, underdevelopment, and conflict. To benefit from the current global demand, the Africa Center for Strategic Studies recommends that African countries invest in research and development, strengthen industrial capacity, and identify niche roles in the global mining value chain.
DR Congo: CMOC Urges End to Cobalt Export Ban
China’s CMOC Group, the world’s largest cobalt producer, has called on the Democratic Republic of Congo to lift its months-long ban on cobalt exports. The company argues that the continued restrictions are damaging to the global supply chain and investor confidence.
Sudan: Cholera Cases Surge Amid Water Crisis
Sudan’s Ministry of Health has reported 2,323 new cholera cases and 51 related deaths over the past three weeks, with 90% of cases concentrated in Khartoum State. The health emergency follows a severe water crisis triggered by damage to power infrastructure during recent conflict. The country also faces simultaneous outbreaks of malaria, dengue, measles, and hepatitis, while up to 80% of healthcare facilities in conflict zones remain non-operational.
Sudan: Al-Burhan Invited to Russia-Arab Summit
General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has received an invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the inaugural Russia-Arab Summit scheduled for October 15. Sudan and Russia maintain close diplomatic ties, including cooperation in energy, mining, and military sectors. A proposed Russian naval base on Sudan’s Red Sea coast remains in limbo.
Burkina Faso: Junta Leans on Sankara Legacy Amid Crisis
Burkina Faso’s military leadership, under Captain Ibrahim Traoré, continues to invoke the legacy of revolutionary leader Thomas Sankara amid deepening insecurity. Despite rhetoric of national revival, over 60% of the country is outside state control, with 2 million people displaced and 6.5 million in need of humanitarian aid. Human rights groups report growing censorship and extrajudicial violence.
Mali: Allegations of Mass Executions by Military
Human Rights Watch has accused Malian forces of executing at least 22 civilians in the Mopti region. Witnesses say the victims were arrested at a local market in Diafarabé and later found in mass graves. The area, home to Fulani communities, is a hotspot for militant activity. Locals are calling for the military’s removal amid rising tensions.
Kenya: Government Admits Role in Uganda Opposition Leader’s Abduction
Kenya has acknowledged cooperating with Uganda in the 2024 abduction of opposition leader Kizza Besigye in Nairobi. The admission by Foreign Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has raised concerns ahead of Uganda’s 2026 elections. Besigye, currently facing treason charges, had previously gone on hunger strike, prompting his case to be transferred to a civilian court.
Uganda: Parliament Expands Military Court Jurisdiction Over Civilians
Uganda’s Parliament passed the UPDF (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which allows military courts to try civilians, defying a recent Supreme Court ruling. The bill, supported by President Museveni, is seen by opposition lawmakers as a threat to civil liberties and democratic processes ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Tanzania: Court Trial Sparks Diplomatic Tensions and Social Media Block
The Tanzanian government blocked access to X (formerly Twitter) after a hacked police account falsely announced President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s death. The incident occurred amid the detention of foreign activists attending the treason trial of opposition leader Tundu Lissu. Tanzania’s Information Minister confirmed the cyberattacks and ongoing investigations.
Tanzania: Defence Budget Rises Amid Recruitment Policy Debate
Tanzania proposed a nearly 10% increase in its defence budget for 2025/26, focusing on military modernization and youth training through the JKT national service program. The budget also emphasizes civil-military cooperation and strategic security partnerships.
South Sudan: Kiir Appoints Deputy Party Leader Amid Political Shifts
President Salva Kiir has replaced SPLM deputy chairperson James Wani Igga with Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, a key political ally. Bol Mel, under U.S. sanctions, oversees economic affairs and is increasingly seen as a potential successor within the ruling party.
South Sudan: Barrel Bombs and Displacement Undermine Peace Deal
Airstrikes and government offensives in Upper Nile State have displaced over 130,000 people, with 50,000 fleeing to Ethiopia. The renewed violence signals the collapse of South Sudan’s fragile 2018 peace agreement, further straining humanitarian operations amid an escalating cholera outbreak.
Nigeria: Sovereign Wealth Fund Reduces U.S. Exposure, Shifts Focus to Asia-Pacific
Nigeria’s Sovereign Investment Authority, managing $2.76 billion in assets, has reduced its exposure to U.S. markets, shifting allocations toward Australian, European, and Japanese investments, according to the fund’s CEO.
UK: People Smuggler Sentenced Over Libya-Italy Crossings
Ahmed Ramadan Mohamad Ebid, an Egyptian national, was sentenced to 25 years in a UK court for orchestrating illegal migrant crossings from Libya to Italy. The operation moved nearly 3,800 migrants and generated over £12 million for the network, which used social media to advertise its services.
Emerging Africa & Asia Infrastructure Fund Raises $325 Million
The Emerging Africa & Asia Infrastructure Fund has raised $325 million for infrastructure investments in emerging markets. Allianz Global Investors led the round with a $113 million commitment, reflecting growing investor interest in sustainable development projects.
