Date: September 30, 2025
🔐 SECURITY & CONFLICT
JNIM Expands Operations into Western Mali
On July 1, the Macina Liberation Front (FLM), a faction of the Jama’at Nasrat al-Islam wal-Muslimeen (JNIM), launched coordinated attacks across western Mali near the Senegal and Mauritania borders. The seven strikes targeted trade routes, fuel tankers, and civilian areas—marking a strategic shift aimed at isolating the Bamako-based junta economically and politically. Analysts warn the group’s expanded reach threatens stability in neighboring coastal states.
(Africa Center for Strategic Studies)
RSF Drone Fleet Points to Imminent Strikes in Sudan
A Yale University report reveals the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have assembled 43 armed drones, including long-range Shahed-136 models, at Nyala airport in South Darfur. The fleet appeared within three days, sparking concerns of an imminent attack on civilian targets and humanitarian operations. Nyala was previously linked to RSF strikes in May.
(Yale Humanitarian Research Lab / Sudan Tribune)
Nigeria: Bandits Kill 12 Forest Guards in Kwara State
Twelve local guards were killed during an early-morning attack in Oke-Ode, Kwara State. Armed groups stormed a government building and opened fire, injuring four others. The incident adds to a wave of insecurity in north-central Nigeria, where “bandit” groups frequently carry out mass violence and kidnappings.
(Reuters)
⚖️ HUMAN RIGHTS & JUSTICE
Darfur: Dozens of Children, Elderly Die After Camp Assault
At least 73 children and 22 elderly individuals died from hunger and disease after fleeing the Abu Shouk displacement camp in North Darfur. The RSF reportedly attacked the camp in August, killing civilians and destroying 98% of water sources. Aid groups warn of a deepening humanitarian disaster in El Fasher, where survivors live in makeshift shelters with no food or medicine.
(Sudan Tribune)
Kenya Busts Human Trafficking Ring Linked to Ukraine Conflict
Kenyan authorities rescued 22 people from a suspected trafficking network luring citizens with false job offers in Russia. Victims were allegedly being sent to fight in Ukraine, having paid up to $1,500 in deposits. Police recovered recruitment materials and arrested one suspect. Some returnees report trauma, injuries, or disappearances.
(BBC Africa)
Mali: Former Prime Minister on Trial Over Pro-Prisoner Post
Mali’s former Prime Minister Moussa Mara is on trial for an online message expressing solidarity with political detainees. Authorities charged him with undermining state credibility and spreading false information. The case, brought before Bamako’s cybercrime court, highlights growing repression by the military regime.
(Al Jazeera)
🏛️ POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
Uganda’s Besigye Sues Kenyan Officials Over Alleged Deportation
Opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye has filed a suit at Kenya’s High Court accusing senior government officials—including Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi—of facilitating his abduction and deportation in November 2024. He seeks declarations of unfitness for office and compensation, citing violations of due process and cross-border collusion with Ugandan authorities.
(The East African)
💼 ECONOMY & DIPLOMACY
Uganda-Somalia to Sign Trade and Labor Agreements
Uganda and Somalia are set to sign three MoUs during the Second Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) Summit in Kampala (Oct 7–8). The agreements cover immigration, labor mobility, and education cooperation. Officials say the summit will strengthen economic ties, especially after Somalia’s integration into the East African Community (EAC).
(Daily Monitor)
Tanzania, Italy Partner Against Transnational Crime
Judicial officials from Tanzania and Italy are undergoing a three-day training on extradition and mutual legal assistance. The initiative, hosted by Tanzania’s Institute of Judicial Administration and Italy’s Sant’Anna School, aims to combat transnational criminal networks through strengthened international legal collaboration.
(The Citizen)
🌐 DIGITAL & CIVIL LIBERTIES
Africa Faces Spike in Internet Shutdowns
Governments across Africa imposed nearly 200 internet shutdowns between 2016 and 2024, according to a report by the African Digital Rights Network. Ethiopia topped the list with 30 instances, followed by Sudan, Algeria, and Chad. Shutdowns are increasingly used to curb dissent and obstruct political opposition, with significant social and economic impacts.
(Semafor)
Morocco: Youth-Led Protests Met with Mass Arrests
Dozens were arrested in cities including Rabat and Casablanca during youth-led protests demanding reforms in education, healthcare, and governance. The protests, organized by the anonymous collective GenZ 212, were mobilized via Discord. Human rights groups report more than 60 arrests in Rabat alone, though many were later released.
(AFP / AMDH)
