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Date: 22 July 2025 | Editor’s Note: A round-up of key political, security, economic, and development updates from across the African continent.
EAST & NORTH AFRICA
Sudan: Kordofan Becomes New Strategic Frontline
The oil-rich Kordofan region has become a pivotal battleground in Sudan’s ongoing civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). With a population nearing 8 million, Kordofan holds vital oil infrastructure, including pipelines used by landlocked South Sudan.
Fighting has intensified since June, as SAF seeks to reclaim territory after RSF gains in Khartoum and Gezira. Recent attacks have killed hundreds, heightening regional and international alarm.
– Source: BBC
Sudan: Civilian Alliance Supports Diplomatic Push
The Civil Democratic Alliance Somoud, led by ex-Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, has urged the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the UAE to align efforts to end Sudan’s war. In letters ahead of Quadrilateral talks in Washington, Somoud backed a proposed U.S.-led two-phase plan: an immediate ceasefire followed by direct negotiations between SAF and RSF leaders.
The alliance calls for unimpeded humanitarian access and a political transition to civilian rule.
– Source: Sudan Tribune
Egypt: Alaa Abdel Fattah Removed from Terror List
An Egyptian court removed jailed British-Egyptian activist Alaa Abdel Fattah from the terrorism list. While asset freezes and travel bans have been lifted, his release remains uncertain. Abdel Fattah has been detained without new charges since completing a five-year sentence in 2023.
– Source: AFP
Tunisia: Civil Society Faces Ongoing Crackdown
Tunisian civil society continues to weaken under President Kais Saied’s tightened control. Activist Cherifa Riahi remains jailed over alleged migrant smuggling, and several NGOs have seen assets frozen or offices raided. Groups warn Tunisia’s remaining democratic institutions are being eroded.
– Source: Reuters
WEST AFRICA
Mali: Army and Wagner Accused of Killing Fulani Civilians
Human Rights Watch reports Malian forces and Russia’s Wagner Group executed at least 12 Fulani men and forcibly disappeared 81 others during counterinsurgency operations. UN-confirmed evidence suggests 65 disappeared men were executed in Kayes in April.
HRW urges the African Union to press for investigations.
– Source: AFP
Mali: Court Rejects Barrick Appeal Over Employee Arrests
A Malian court has rejected Barrick Gold’s appeal to release four employees arrested last year amid a tax and ownership dispute with the military government. Operations at Barrick’s Loulo-Gounkoto complex remain suspended, and Mali has issued an arrest warrant for CEO Mark Bristow.
– Source: Reuters
Burkina Faso: Journalists Released Amid Crackdown
Two more journalists have been released after months of detention under Burkina Faso’s military rule. Reporters Without Borders says at least two journalists remain forcibly enrolled into military service following protests over press freedom restrictions.
– Source: AFP
Nigeria: Bandits Kill Six, Abduct Over 100 in Zamfara
Armed groups killed six and abducted more than 100 people—mostly women and children—in Nigeria’s Zamfara State. The area continues to suffer from bandit violence, making travel and farming unsafe. Thousands have fled the affected community.
– Source: Reuters
CENTRAL AFRICA
DR Congo: Rescue Efforts Continue at Collapsed Gold Mine
At least six miners have been rescued from collapsed shafts in rebel-held South Kivu, with many more feared trapped. The region has seen an influx of artisanal miners after recent gold discoveries, but poor equipment is hindering rescue efforts.
– Source: BBC
HORN OF AFRICA
Somalia: Federal Troops Clash with Jubaland Forces
At least five people were killed during fighting between Somali government troops and Jubaland regional forces in the Gedo region. The violence follows long-standing disputes over regional elections and governance.
– Source: AFP
Somalia: President Visits Turkish Drone Facility
President Hassan Sheikh visited Turkey’s Özdemir Bayraktar Technology Center, aiming to boost Somalia’s defense capabilities against Al-Shabaab. The visit follows recent oil and military agreements between both countries.
– Source: Garowe Online
SOUTHERN AFRICA
Mozambique: Opposition Leader Faces Terrorism Charges
Venancio Mondlane, leader of Mozambique’s opposition, says he has been charged with five offences including inciting terrorism, following his role in post-election protests. Nearly 400 people were reportedly killed during the demonstrations.
– Source: AFP
Mozambique: Strengthens Defense Ties with Russia
Foreign Minister Maria Lucas reaffirmed military cooperation with Russia during a visit to Moscow. Russia has provided defense assistance to Mozambique, including Wagner mercenaries deployed since 2019.
– Source: Africanews
PAN-AFRICAN ISSUES
Migration: Egyptians Seeking New Futures in Africa
A growing number of young Egyptians are migrating south to African countries instead of heading to Europe. Driven by economic hardship and supported by Egypt’s expanding commercial ties in Africa, this migration trend is largely circular or temporary.
– Source: Al Jazeera
Uganda: Flood Risk Spurs Swimming Lessons Campaign
Uganda’s transport ministry is urging Kampala residents to learn swimming amid increased urban flooding. Poor infrastructure and lack of water safety skills have caused over 1,400 annual drowning deaths.
– Source: Monitor
Digital Divide: UN Urges Investment in Youth and Tech
Only 34% of African women and 45% of men use the internet, with 98% of youth lacking STEM skills, a UN report shows. The agency urges investment in education and tech infrastructure to meet 2030 development goals.
– Source: UN News
BUSINESS & MACRO TRENDS
- 🇳🇬 Nigeria: Africa Finance Corporation secures $255M sustainability-linked loan from UAE banks.
- 🇿🇲 Zambia: Government signs $1.1B deal with China’s Fujian Xiang Xin for oil refinery in Ndola.
- 🌍 S&P & Nigeria: Partner to develop petroleum price benchmark for West Africa.
- 🇬🇧 UK Aid Cuts: Women’s health and education in Africa expected to bear brunt of reductions.
- 🇺🇬 MTN Uganda: Plans to spin off and list its fintech unit within 3–5 years.
SPORTS
Morocco Reaches First WAFCON Final
Morocco defeated Ghana 4-2 on penalties to reach their first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final. They will face Nigeria in Rabat, as both nations vie for the 2024 title.
– Source: BBC
Source: africacenter.org
