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Week of July 21, 2025
1. Conflict & Peacebuilding
DR Congo and M23 Rebels Sign Ceasefire Agreement
Location: Doha, Qatar | Date: July 19, 2025
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group have signed a preliminary ceasefire deal in Doha following three months of negotiations. This deal, brokered with Qatari and U.S. support, follows a separate peace framework signed between Rwanda and the DRC in Washington last month.
Key Provisions:
- Immediate cessation of hostilities.
- M23 to withdraw from occupied areas.
- Restoration of state authority in eastern DRC.
- Full implementation by July 29.
- Direct talks for a permanent peace agreement to begin August 8.
Statements:
Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya emphasized that DRC’s “non-negotiable red lines,” including M23’s withdrawal and institutional redeployment, were respected. Presidents Félix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame are expected to meet later this year to cement the Washington agreement.
2. Geopolitics & Foreign Influence
Russia Expands Influence in Africa Through Digital Platforms
Location: Nairobi, Kenya | Date: September 11, 2024
Russia has intensified its soft-power and digital influence strategy in Africa with the launch of a social networking app, AFree, in Kenya. Though marketed as a communications tool tailored for African users, AFree is reportedly part of a broader Russian information operation.
Background:
- Launched post-Wagner Group disbandment.
- Linked to the Russian-sponsored African Initiative media outlet.
- Monitored by Russian intelligence to shape region-specific narratives.
This aligns with Russia’s 2023 Foreign Policy Concept, which prioritizes strategic partnerships and influence-building in Africa amid isolation from Western powers.
3. Security & Human Rights
Deadly Incident at Wagner-Controlled Mine in Central African Republic
Location: Ndassima, CAR | Date: July 16, 2025
At least 11 civilians were killed at a gold mine controlled by Russia-affiliated Wagner mercenaries. Victims were reportedly scavenging for leftover gold when they were summarily executed. Aid workers confirmed that all victims were unarmed civilians from nearby villages.
Sudan: Escalating Violence and EU Sanctions Deepen Crisis
Location: Kordofan and Darfur, Sudan | Date: July 12–19, 2025
Ongoing clashes in North Kordofan and Darfur have resulted in over 450 civilian deaths, including 35 children, during the July 12 weekend. Displacement is rising, worsening outbreaks of measles and cholera.
EU Sanctions:
- Target two commanders (SAF and RSF).
- Include two companies (Alkhaleej Bank and Red Rock Mining).
- Cited for human rights violations and financing conflict.
4. Migration & Displacement
Libya Deports 700 Sudanese Migrants
Location: Eastern Libya | Date: July 20, 2025
Libyan authorities deported 700 Sudanese migrants back to conflict-ridden Sudan. Many were reportedly suffering from infectious diseases or had been convicted of crimes. Rights groups warn of potential abuses and unsafe return conditions.
5. Rising Insecurity
Foreign Nationals Targeted in Niger Attack
Location: Dosso Region, Niger | Date: July 15, 2025
Two Indian workers were killed and another abducted during an attack near a construction site in Dosso, southwest Niger. The region continues to face insurgency-related violence following the 2023 military coup.
6. Politics & Governance
Cameroon: Maurice Kamto to Challenge President Biya
Location: Yaoundé, Cameroon | Date: July 18, 2025
Opposition figure Maurice Kamto has officially entered Cameroon’s October presidential race under the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (MANIDEM). Kamto previously ran under the Cameroon Renaissance Movement in 2018, placing second to President Paul Biya, who now seeks an eighth term at age 92.
7. Media Freedom & Civil Liberties
Beninese Journalist Released, But Remains Under Investigation
Location: Cotonou, Benin | Date: July 18, 2025
Journalist Cosme Hounsa was released after being detained over a complaint of online harassment by a government minister. Authorities retained his electronic devices. Legal proceedings remain ongoing, raising fresh concerns about press freedom in Benin.
8. Institutional Reform & Federal Tensions
Somalia’s Electoral Reform Talks Stall Amid Opposition
Location: Mogadishu, Somalia | Date: July 17, 2025
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud held another round of talks with opposition leaders over disputed constitutional reforms. His push for universal suffrage is contested due to:
- Lack of federal government control outside Mogadishu.
- Ongoing insecurity from Al-Shabaab in rural regions.
- Fears of unconstitutional term extensions.
Opposition leaders from Puntland and Jubaland boycotted the talks.
9. Civil Society & Human Rights
Kenyan Activist Boniface Mwangi Charged Over Ammunition Possession
Location: Nairobi, Kenya | Date: July 21, 2025
Renowned activist Boniface Mwangi was charged with unlawful possession of tear gas canisters amid a government crackdown on dissent. Mwangi denies the charges. Rights groups describe the case as politically motivated and part of efforts to suppress civil protests.
East African Activists File Torture Case at Regional Court
Location: Arusha, Tanzania | Date: July 19, 2025
Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan journalist Agather Atuhaire have filed a case at the East African Court of Justice (EACJ). The suit accuses Tanzanian police of abduction, torture, and sexual abuse during their detention in May. The case also names the Kenyan and Ugandan governments for failing to protect their citizens.
10. Business & Economy
- 🇿🇦 South Africa: Crypto platform MoneyBadger raised $400,000 in pre-seed funding.
- 🇿🇦 Vodacom revised its stake in Maziv to 34.95% amid regulatory scrutiny.
- 🇲🇦 Morocco: AfDB approved a $116.4 million loan for sustainable agriculture targeting youth and women.
- 🇹🇿 Tanzania: Lifezone Metals to acquire BHP’s stake in Kabanga Nickel Project for up to $83 million.
- 🇸🇳 Senegal: Flutterwave obtained licensing to expand digital payment services in Senegal.
