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US, UN Launch Separate Diplomatic Efforts to End Sudan Conflict
The United States and the United Nations have announced parallel diplomatic initiatives aimed at ending the war in Sudan. U.S. presidential adviser Massad Boulos said Washington will host talks with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt to revive the “Quartet” format, emphasizing there is “no military solution.” Simultaneously, UN envoy Ramtane Lamamra is coordinating efforts with the African Union for proximity talks between Sudanese parties, focusing on civilian protection and conflict resolution.
DR Congo: Gold Miner Accuses M23 Rebels of Forced Labor
Twangiza Mining SA claims its workers have been forced to labor without pay under M23 rebel control at its South Kivu mine. The Rwandan-backed rebel group reportedly seized the site earlier this year. In a statement, the company described “inhuman” working conditions and said production has been paralyzed. The M23 accuses the company of tax evasion.
Mali: Three Indian Nationals Kidnapped in Armed Factory Raid
India’s foreign ministry confirmed that three Indian workers were abducted from Diamond Cement Factory in Kayes during a militant raid. The embassy in Bamako is working closely with Malian authorities and the victims’ families to secure their release.
South Sudan: Civilian Death Toll Highest Since 2020 – UN
Violence has surged in South Sudan, with 739 civilians killed in the first quarter of 2025, the UN reported. The increase follows growing tensions between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar, who was detained in March. Attacks on medical facilities and civilians have been reported.
South Sudan: Succession Moves as President Kiir’s Health Declines
Amid renewed political instability, President Kiir has returned from the UAE where sources say he underwent medical tests. Analysts suggest Kiir is positioning businessman Benjamin Bol Mel as his successor, sidelining rivals including Machar, now under house arrest.
Guinea: Junta Proposes Longer Presidential Terms in New Constitution
Guinea’s ruling junta has proposed extending presidential terms from five to seven years, with a two-term cap, in a draft constitution set for a September referendum. It remains unclear if junta leader General Mamadi Doumbouya will run. The proposal follows pledges not to contest future elections, raising concerns about democratic transition.
Nigeria: Opposition Coalition Formed to Challenge Ruling Party in 2027
Nigeria’s opposition leaders, including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, have launched a coalition to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s APC in the 2027 elections. The move comes amid dissatisfaction over security and economic issues and recalls the successful 2015 coalition strategy that ended the PDP’s 16-year rule.
Tinubu Calls for Stronger Regional Integration at West Africa Summit
Speaking at the West Africa Economic Summit in Abuja, President Tinubu urged regional leaders to deepen cooperation and invest in joint infrastructure projects. He emphasized that West Africa’s prosperity hinges on collaborative efforts in energy, transportation, and technology sectors.
Uganda: US Donates $3.7M Peacekeeping Training Facility to UPDF
The U.S. has handed over a new training auditorium to Uganda’s military in Jinja, part of the African Peacekeeping Rapid Response Partnership. The 1,500-capacity center will support regional and international peacekeeping operations.
Senegal: Court Upholds PM Sonko’s Defamation Conviction
Senegal’s Supreme Court has upheld Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko’s defamation conviction, effectively barring him from contesting future elections. Sonko, who faces multiple legal cases, claims the charges are politically motivated.
Kenya: Misinformation Clouds Coverage of Protest Anniversary
Protests marking the anniversary of Kenya’s 2024 anti-finance bill demonstrations were marred by misinformation online. Fact-checkers revealed that several viral videos were unrelated to the events of June 25, 2025, highlighting the challenge of verifying content during crises.
India-Ghana Bolster Ties During Modi Visit
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Ghana’s President John Mahama during the first visit by an Indian leader to the country in over 30 years. The leaders agreed to deepen cooperation in mining, security, and vaccine production, amid growing Indian investment in Africa’s resource sectors.
Zimbabwe: Editor Detained Over Satirical Article
Zimbabwean journalist Faith Zaba was detained over a satirical piece critical of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Press freedom groups condemned the arrest as part of a broader crackdown on media. The court is set to rule on bail proceedings.
Source | africacenter.org