Deep Roots of Insecurity and Displacement

Eastern Congo provides fertile ground for the epidemic to spread rapidly. Armed conflict, mass displacement, and population movements hinder containment efforts. A concurrent strike by local health workers compounds the crisis. Displacement sites present the most acute danger due to severely precarious living conditions. The virus recently breached two additional health zones in the region.

Global Health Alarm

The World Health Organisation warns the outbreak remains entirely out of control. Current transmission trajectories threaten to surpass the devastating 2014-2016 West Africa epidemic. That disaster claimed over 11,000 lives across Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. Officials trace the current contagion back to February, despite formal declarations arriving in May. The virus has now crossed from three initial zones into nearly 60 areas. Most infections and fatalities occur inside local communities rather than monitored contact networks.

Frontline Violence and Burial Tensions

Response teams face immense hostility while attempting to contain the spread. Armed assailants recently stormed an Ebola burial site outside Mambasa in Ituri province. Attackers wielding machetes injured one response worker and forced the entire team to scatter. Floribert Magene addressed the constant threat of violence faced by medical personnel. “We demand greater security so we can operate in the field and do our work without endangering our lives,” said Floribert Magene, a member of the response team. Traditional funeral practices complicate containment because deceased victims remain highly contagious. Authorities mandate state-managed burials for suspected cases to prevent transmission. These protocols frequently spark friction and protests from grieving families and communities.

Treatment Gaps and Experimental Defences

The current epidemic stems from the Bundibugyo strain, a rare viral type lacking approved treatments or vaccines. Officials launched a vaccination campaign last week targeting health workers and front-line staff. This campaign utilises the Ervebo vaccine, proven effective against the distinct Zaire strain. Clinical trials continue in an urgent race to secure a licensed vaccine for the Bundibugyo variant.

Broader Regional Fallout

Emergency containment measures paralyse daily life across six affected provinces. Restrictions target public gatherings, enforce social distancing, and mandate airport closures. Ituri province bears a double burden from both the epidemic and persistent rebel violence. Advocacy groups urge authorities to deepen community engagement and build local trust. Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation warns that cross-border transmission risks persist despite neighbouring Uganda declaring itself Ebola-free last month.

Humanitarian Crossroads

Balancing immediate epidemiological containment with enduring community trust remains the central challenge for international health bodies and local administrations alike.

The records are being sought by American transparency activist Aaron Greenspan, who filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit against several US government agencies seeking documents relating to investigations involving Tinubu.

Greenspan’s requests include the FBI’s entire file on Tinubu and FBI Form 302 interview records concerning the period between 1992 and 1993.

The case also involves an alleged record connected to a 1993 civil forfeiture proceeding in the United States involving about $460,000 linked to Tinubu.

Tinubu has denied wrongdoing.

According to the 16-page court documents shared with Channels Television by his lawyer and legal team, Christopher W. Carmichael, Victor P. Henderson, and Oluwole O. Afolabi, on Saturday, Tinubu argued that the release of the records could infringe on his privacy.

“Submitted in that proceeding, did not reveal the details of a possible criminal investigation (or its results) involving Intervenor. Other than by speculation or labels, Plaintiff does not point to an existing public record that contains details of a governmental criminal investigation or findings about Intervenor. (DE 85-3, No. 16.)

“The purpose of Plaintiff’s motion is to obtain such information because it is not public. Moreover, Plaintiff’s argument that the limited disclosures in connection with the forfeiture negates all privacy interests is not consistent with precedent. The Supreme Court explained that an individual retains a privacy interest in an entire file or document being produced, even where there are “scattered” disclosures of information from that same file. See Reporters Committee, 489 U.S. at 764-67 (“our cases have recognized the privacy interests inherent in the non-disclosure of certain information even where the information may have been public at one time.”).

“While some information may appear in portions of public records, an individual still retains a privacy interest in the details that remain undisclosed. Applying Reporter’s Committee, this Court explained that an individual retains a privacy interest even if they were previously publicly associated with criminal activity. Judicial Watch, Inc. v. United States Dept. of Justice, 898 F.Supp.2d 93, 104-05 (D.D.C. 2012).

“Other decisions have likewise described the fact that someone was under investigation as “distinct” from the contents of the investigative files. See Electronic Privacy Info. Centre v. United States Dept. of Justice, 18 F.4d 712, 719 (D.C. Cir. 2021) (“Although the names of – 6 – Case 1:23-cv-01816-BAH Document 98 Filed 08/28/26 Page 7 of 16 Trump campaign officials appear in public portions of the Report, they retain a privacy interest in ‘avoiding disclosure of the details of the investigation.’”)

“Regardless of the prior disclosure in the forfeiture proceeding, Intervenor retains a privacy interest in potential disclosure of the investigative files sought by Plaintiff”, the document read in part.

The summit, scheduled for Sunday, August 30, is being hosted by Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, who serves as the AU Champion for Peace and Reconciliation in Africa.

Central to the discussions will be the proposed adoption of a comprehensive Decision, Action Plan and Implementation Matrix on Conflict Prevention and Resolution.

African leaders are also expected to examine the effectiveness of existing continental peace and security mechanisms and identify ways to improve coordination, response, implementation and funding under the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) and the African Governance Architecture (AGA).

The extraordinary meeting comes as several regions of Africa continue to grapple with security and political challenges, including conflicts in Sudan and the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, instability across the Sahel and the Horn of Africa, and the ongoing insurgency in northern Mozambique.

President Mahama and other heads of state are expected to explore practical measures to strengthen regional stability and enhance Africa’s collective ability to prevent, manage and resolve conflicts.

The session forms part of the AU’s broader efforts to reinforce African-led approaches to peacebuilding, conflict prevention and sustainable security on the continent.

South Africa has been hit by a wave of protests demanding that undocumented migrants leave the country – the latest unofficial deadline set is 30 September.

Tens of thousands of Africans have been voluntarily repatriated in recent months, some saying they have been the targets of intimidation and attacks.

While cracking down on illegal immigration, the South African government has said that those who have taken the law into their own hands have been arrested.

South Africa is Africa’s wealthiest nation and has long attracted migrants searching for better economic opportunities.

But illegal immigration has become a highly contentious political issue, with protesters accusing undocumented migrants of placing pressure on South Africa’s public services, as well as being involved in crime.

In a message explaining why he would not be performing at the Macufe festival in Free State province next month, Keïta said he could not “ignore the reports of xenophobic violence against our African brothers and sisters.

“When I see migrants attacked, I do not see ‘politics’. I see people looking for work, safety, and dignity.”

The 77-year-old star added that this did not reflect the country that he knew and that cancelling the appearance was “a rejection of hate” rather than a rejection of South Africans, leaving the door open for a return at some point.

In its response, the Free State’s culture department said it “regrets the decision taken by the renowned musician”.

It emphasised that the Macufe festival was a celebration of African unity.

Keïta, known to some as the “Golden Voice of Africa”, was a pioneer who helped put African music on the global map and after 50 years in the music business remains influential.

News of the cancellation of his concert came as the first group of 173 Tanzanians returned from South Africa as part of a voluntary repatriation programme.

For some of them the flight home from Durban, which has seen some of the biggest protests, marks the end of decades spent in South Africa.

Abdul Idi, who went there in 2006 hoping to build a better life, said he was grateful to have returned safely after what he described as difficult and dangerous circumstances in South Africa.

“Foreigners are not wanted there,” he said on arrival at Dar es Salaam’s international airport on Wednesday night.

Another returnee, Rashid Ramadhan, said he had spent 30 years in South Africa.

The 53-year-old explained how he and others had been forced out of their accommodation in Durban and had been living outside for the past two months, with their jobs gone and life becoming increasingly difficult.

More than 160,000 people have left the country on similar repatriation schemes since May, according to a count by the AFP news agency. Malawians, Zimbabweans, Zambians, Ghanaians and Nigerians are among those who have returned.

The anti-migrant group March and March has announced a second wave of nationwide protests set for 30 September.

Earlier this month, the group called on leaders attending the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) summit in Durban to “fetch your people”.

March and March says its September action will be bigger and better organised than the demonstrations on 30 June, which were accompanied by violence in some areas.

Those returning to their home countries from South Africa often need support, having abandoned their livelihoods and many of their possessions.

But Ghana’s government has rejected a donation of about $1.7m (£1.25m) from MTN Ghana, a subsidiary of South African telecoms giant MTN Group, offered to support Ghanaians repatriated from South Africa.

Ghana’s foreign ministry said that the government was committed to funding the evacuation and reintegration of its repatriated citizens.

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Among those who have spoken out is renowned female footballer Nchout Njoya Ajara, who has called for an end to the “tragic wave” of targeting women. The government has also raised concern about the rise in attacks.

At least 50 women have been killed between January and April this year, compared to 77 last year, according to official figures.

In the latest case on Tuesday, a 44-year-old woman was killed in a hotel room in the capital, Yaoundé. She was allegedly stabbed to death by a 22-year-old who was later arrested.

“Being a woman in Cameroon should never be a risk. In the face of the tragic wave of femicides that has hit our country in recent days, silence is complicity,” Ajara said.

In a statement, the opposition Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM) party said it was outraged by the “tragic recurrence of domestic femicides” and accused the government of being passive about the issue.

The femicide cases, most of which are attributed to domestic violence, have been reported in different parts of the country.

In a video published by state media, the minister for Women’s Empowerment and the Family, Marie-Thérèse Abena Ondoa, condemned the “worrying” rise in the number of the killings, and said the government was working to address the problem.

She mentioned a bill to protect women against gender-based violence, which she said was being reviewed by the prime minister.

But civil society and women’s rights groups have denounced what they perceive as the government’s delay in turning the bill into law.

A parliamentary session, the last one for the year, is due to be held in November. However, Viviane Tathi, whose organisation documents cases of femicide in the country, told the BBC she was not sure that the bill would be passed at the session.

“We are worried because the November parliamentary session focuses on budgetary debates…So, we don’t know by what magic this bill will be passed,” she said.

She has called for the creation of a special court to handle family disputes, which lead to domestic violence.

He was arrested in 2014 along with his brother-in-law Frank Rusagara, a retired brigadier-general, for “spreading rumours” and “tarnishing the image of the country and government”.

Right groups expressed concern over their cases, framing them as a part of a pattern of government repression. Throughout his trial, Col Byabagamba denied the allegations against him, saying they were fabricated.

Byabagamba’s brother David Himbara told the BBC Great Lakes service his family did not know the cause of death as “no-one was allowed to see him in all these years”.

Rights groups have repeatedly accused Kagame’s government of restricting political opposition and silencing critics within Rwanda and abroad.

In 2016, a military court convicted Byagamba and imprisoned him for 21 years, although this was later reduced to 15 years on appeal. Rusagara, who had also been secretary-general of the defence ministry, was given a 20-year sentence.

Rusagara died in prison in March last year. At the time Human Rights Watch (HRW) described it as the “lonely death of a general”, noting that his family had not heard his voice since 2014, days before his arrest.

His family was informed by the authorities that Rusagara had been ill with cancer, the rights group said.

The conviction of the two men had followed a “flawed trial” marked by “serious allegations of torture and witness tampering”, according to HRW.

Campaign group Freedom Now had also previously criticised their detention as “arbitrary” and as having “violated international law”.

Byabagamba leaves behind two sons and a wife.

The two-day forum, which will be held at the Kigali Convention Centre, is being organised by the African School of Governance (ASG) and is expected to bring together about 1,000 leaders from Africa and beyond.

Approximately 80 percent of participants are expected to be young people and emerging leaders.

Among the prominent figures expected at the forum are former South African President Thabo Mbeki, former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and Vice President Opoku-Agyemang.

Other participants include former Gambian Vice President Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang, known for her work in promoting women’s and youth rights, democratic governance and peacebuilding, as well as Monica Geingos, widow of former Namibian President Hage Geingob.

The forum is being held under the theme, “From Pan-Africanism to Meta-Africanism.”

According to the organisers, the gathering seeks to open a new chapter in Africa’s development by moving beyond the traditional emphasis on political unity and independence towards building strong institutions, developing homegrown solutions and implementing programmes that deliver tangible results.

On the first day, former President Thabo Mbeki is expected to deliver a keynote address on the vision of Meta-Africanism.

President Paul Kagame, one of the founders of the African School of Governance, will join Vice President Opoku-Agyemang and former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn for a discussion on translating the objectives of African unity into concrete action.

Discussions on the second day will focus on African ownership and management of the continent’s natural resources, as well as people-centred development.

Key strategies expected to be highlighted include facilitating movement across Africa, establishing a single African air transport market and creating an African institution to assess the creditworthiness of African countries.

The ASG says the forum is designed not simply to revisit Africa’s longstanding challenges but to showcase solutions already delivering results, connect the people implementing those solutions and shift the continent from rhetoric to action.

The Africa Mindset Reset Forum is being held for the first time this year and is built around seven transformations intended to reshape how Africa approaches its development.

The broader objective is to encourage a new generation of African leaders to take ownership of the continent’s development and translate the ideals of Pan-Africanism into practical and measurable outcomes.

Dr Yamson said MTN Ghana should have issued its own statement earlier, despite a condemnation already issued by the South Africa Ghana Business Chamber.

“I apologise that we haven’t done that.”

He was responding to criticism that corporate institutions, including MTN, had remained silent while Ghanaians and other African nationals faced attacks in South Africa.

Dr Yamson said the corporate sector in South Africa had spoken against the attacks.

“The corporate sector in South Africa has been very outspoken against it. The MTN chairman spoke directly, and he condemned it in no uncertain terms.”

He also said the South Africa Ghana Business Chamber had issued a statement condemning the attacks.

But he acknowledged that MTN Ghana was expected to speak directly because of its size and influence in Ghana.

“If you come to Ghana, MTN is big, and therefore, everybody would expect MTN to come out and issue a statement.”

He stressed that MTN Ghana had no connection to the attacks.

“Let me say now here that we condemn it unreservedly. We have nothing to do with it. We dissociate ourselves from it completely.”

Dr Yamson said more than 120,000 Ghanaians are shareholders in MTN Ghana and stressed the company’s identity as a Ghanaian corporate entity.

“MTN Ghana is a corporate citizen of Ghana. It is not MTN South Africa.”

He also criticised South Africa’s handling of the attacks, saying the country could not promote African integration while treating African migrants with hostility.

“What is happening in South Africa is bad. And I can tell you that we are angry.”

He said he was particularly angry because of the contradiction between South Africa’s continental ambitions and the treatment of other Africans.

He also condemned calls for retaliation against South African businesses operating in Ghana. Dr Yamson said such action would ultimately hurt Ghanaians.

“If you target MTN Ghana, you can target it, but at the end of the day, you are destroying something that you should protect.”

He said MTN Ghana has 120,000 Ghanaian shareholders and that about 98% of its employees are Ghanaian.

He also pointed to the company’s contribution to Ghana’s economy. “MTN is the biggest taxpayer in this country.”

He said MTN Ghana operates under Ghanaian law and has not wronged anyone in Ghana.

“MTN Ghana has not done anything to anybody in Ghana, here in Ghana. Has not reneged on any of its commitments in this country.”

Dr Yamson further revealed that MTN Ghana had planned to provide financial support to Ghanaians returning from South Africa.

He said the board initially decided to set aside GH¢10 million as a welcome-back package.

“When the issue broke, I can tell you, the board immediately decided that we will set aside ¢10 million to welcome for as a welcome back.”

But the company later reconsidered the approach after realising that immediate assistance alone would not be enough.

“What we then began to decide is that, and many of them, some I understand they were allowed only two suitcases when they are on their return. So how do we create a fund that we will use to help these people to start life all over again?”

He said the company planned to add another GH¢10 million to create a fund to support the returnees in rebuilding their lives.

“I think the mistake that we made was not to have engaged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs immediately about this.”

“Sometimes when you are big, your internal bureaucracy can also delay a few things. But we have not forgotten. We will do it.” “We’ll do it in a big way. We’ll do it in a way that will make more meaning.”

He also commended other organisations that had already supported the returnees.

“For those who did it, Telecel and the others, I really congratulate them. Pentecost Church, I congratulate them.”

The deceased, identified as Vainess Kanyama, reportedly confronted Christin Ntundwe over the alleged relationship with her husband.

According to a report by Zambia Daily Mail, fight broke out, of which the side chick beat the wife to pulp near a market. She sustained injuries to her face and bled from her nose.

The victim was rushed to the hospital where it was confirmed she was brought in dead.

The matter was subsequently reported to the police.

Family of the deceased confirmed that she had been living with her husband in the same area before she decided to confront Ntundwe, who also resides in the area.

One of Kanyama’s daughters, who was reportedly with her during the confrontation, later rushed home to alert relatives after finding her mother unconscious.

A post-mortem examination subsequently established that Kanyama died from blood clots on both sides of the brain, according to the family.

Her relatives called for justice and urged the authorities to apprehend the suspect, who is reportedly on the run.

The deceased leaves behind three children, with her youngest reportedly aged five.

Police investigations into the circumstances surrounding her death are ongoing.

The 38‑year‑old was killed in what has been described as an ambush in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape on Friday.

Officials said Tete was in his car waiting for the gate to his house to open when two armed suspects in balaclavas emerged from a vehicle and fired “multiple shots” at him and a 27‑year‑old female passenger, who remains in hospital.

South Africa’s minister of sport, arts and culture, Gayton McKenzie, said: “South Africa has lost one of the finest fighters it has ever produced.”

The two suspects fled the scene and a major investigation has been launched, McKenzie added.

Tete held the WBO bantamweight title from 2017 to 2019, as well as the IBF super-flyweight title in 2014.

Tete beat Liverpool’s Paul Butler in 2015 in one of the eight times he fought in the United Kingdom.

He also holds a Guinness World Record for the fastest knockout in a title fight, ending his match with Siboniso Gonya inside 11 seconds in 2017.

Tete last fought in July 2022, beating Briton Jason Cunningham by knockout In London, but it was later ruled a no-contest after he failed a drugs test.

He tested positive for anabolic steroid stanozolol and was given a four-year ban by the UK Anti-Doping Agency.

His ban ended on 29 July, 2026 and after his death, manager Mla Tengimfene confirmed he had been training for a comeback fight.

Tete had 29 wins in 34 fights, with four losses and one no-contest.

‘Wonderful boxer’ – Inoue & more offer tributes

Japanese fighter Naoya Inoue said Tete was a “wonderful boxer”.

“I hope the world is peaceful. And please, rest in peace,” he said.

John Riel Casimero, who took the WBO bantamweight belt from Tete in November 2019, said he was “shocked” and “heartbroken” over his death.

“We shared the canvas and pushed each other to be our absolute best inside the squared ring. A true warrior and champion. Rest in peace, champ. Prayers with your family and loved ones,” he said.

Tete’s manager Mlandeli Tengimfene confirmed the fighter had been preparing for a return to the ring on 29 November.

“Zolani is gone at a time we thought he was going to resuscitate his career,” he told the South African Broadcasting Corporation.

“The news is devastating, I must say.”

Sanctioning body the WBO said it mourned the passing of its former champion.

“We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, loved ones and the entire South African boxing community during this incredibly difficult time,” a social media post said.

“Rest in peace, champion.”

Sounding the alarm that the outbreak is “spreading faster and wider” than ever before, the UN’s Senior Ebola Coordinator Julien Harneis reported that more than 2,500 people have now died.

The official called for more funds to be put to work to try to control the spread, noting that the existing pool of money will run out within weeks.

Efforts to stem the epidemic since the outbreak began in May have faced several challenges.

Conflict and a lack of government control and infrastructure in the eastern DRC have disrupted the effort. Where health workers – many of whom have died after contracting the virus – and facilities are able to operate, they have come under attack by frustrated and frightened locals, Harneis said.

More than 260 attacks on health workers have been reported in the past six months, and eight health workers have been killed. More than 160 healthcare workers have fallen ill, with 43 dying.

Aid workers have said many locals believe conspiracy theories that the ⁠⁠outbreak is a hoax, and have reacted angrily when health restrictions prevent them from personally burying loved ones.

Efforts to control the outbreak have also been complicated by the lack of a vaccine for the rare Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, which causes severe haemorrhagic fever.

Existing security concerns are also hampering the battle to stop the spread.

“All of this is happening in an area that has had three decades of ⁠⁠conflict and is generating huge humanitarian needs,” Harneis said.

The UN official warned the epidemic could spread to neighbouring countries without a ramped-up response and urged more staffing and resources to reach remote areas.

Speaking in an interview with TRT World on Friday, President Mahama said Africa must move beyond the political independence achieved by its founding leaders and focus on the economic challenges facing the current generation.

He stressed that Africa’s economic progress should not be viewed as a competition in which the continent’s gains come at the expense of others.

“Africa’s prosperity is not a threat to anybody,” he said.

President Mahama argued that a stronger African economy would create larger markets, expand opportunities, and enable the continent to tackle some of its longstanding development challenges.

He said the push for greater economic self-reliance should, however, not be mistaken for a rejection of international cooperation.

According to him, Africa remains open to working with international partners but wants such relationships to be based on mutual benefit and respect for the continent’s interests.

“We don’t reject partnerships, but those partnerships must be on our terms,” he said.

The President said Africa must build the capacity to set its own development priorities while engaging the rest of the world as an equal partner.

He maintained that greater economic strength would also give African countries a stronger voice in global affairs.

“Africa cannot continue to be a dependent continent. There are things we can do so that we are able to have a better voice in global affairs,” he said.

President Mahama said the challenges confronting today’s African leaders differ from those faced by the continent’s independence-era leaders, including Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah.

He said while Nkrumah and other founding leaders fought for political liberation, the present generation must focus on achieving economic liberation.

“The challenge that us leaders of Africa today face is not the liberation struggle that was fought by Kwame Nkrumah and our forebears. It is the economic struggle,” he said.

He called for stronger African economies, greater local value creation, and reduced dependence on external support, saying these were necessary for the continent to have greater influence over decisions affecting its resources and future.

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The accident took ‌place near Gorau in Goronyo local government area and rescue efforts are continuing, said Abdulkadir Yusuf, an area manager at the National Inland Waterways Authority.

A Reuters witness ​saw 50 bodies, many wrapped in mats and traditional cloths, ​lying in the forecourt of a community mosque ahead of ⁠their burial in Gorau later on Thursday.

Deadly boat accidents are ​relatively common in Nigeria, where overcrowding, poor maintenance and weak enforcement of ​safety regulations often contribute to disasters on the country’s rivers and waterways, particularly during the rainy season.

One local resident said the boat had been carrying farm owners ​and labourers hired to harvest rice and that more than 70 ​people had been onboard when it capsized. Another resident said there were 57 people ‌on ⁠board.

Yusuf said the bodies of around 40 children had been found.

Nasiru Adamu, a lawmaker at the Sokoto state legislature from the area, said that those onboard were mostly aged between 10 and 15 years old, adding that ​16 people had ​been rescued.

“We ⁠have buried 46 people, and even more dead bodies have just been brought. The death toll is 53,” ​said Sharhabilu Kiliya, one eyewitness.

Mustapha Umar, director of relief ​and rehabilitation ⁠at the state’s emergency management agency, said officials were heading to the scene and would provide further information later.

In January, at least 25 people ⁠died ​when a leaking boat capsized in Yobe ​state, northeast Nigeria.

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The 93-year-old leader arrived at Yaounde’s Nsimalen International Airport aboard a chartered flight from Geneva, Switzerland, after more than 10 weeks away.

Biya, the world’s oldest head ​of state, left Cameroon on June 7 for what the ​civil cabinet described as “a brief private stay in Europe”.

The president, ⁠accompanied by First Lady Chantal Biya, touched down around 4.45 p.m. local ​time (1545 pm GMT) before departing in a motorcade for the Etoudi Unity ​Palace.

He waved through a half-open window to hundreds of supporters of the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) who lined the streets of the capital to welcome him home, ​waving party colours and banners praising the president.

Biya’s prolonged absence had fuelled widespread speculation about his health and capacity to govern, despite repeated assurances from authorities that he would return soon. It also raised more questions about political succession in a country where power remains highly centralised around the presidency. 

Opposition politicians had called on the Constitutional Council to examine whether someone should fill in as head of state during the president’s absence. The council did not take any action.

Under Cameroon’s constitution, in the absence of a vice president, the president of the Senate should assume interim duties if the presidency is declared vacant due to death, resignation, or permanent incapacity.

Biya has not appointed a vice president despite the reintroduction of the role last April, ⁠and ​critics say the lack of a clear ​succession framework raises uncertainty about a potential transition in the event he becomes unable to govern.

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The Aircraft Accident Investigation Department said the nationalities of the pilot and passengers were yet to be confirmed.

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) said the accident happened in Samburu county at approximately 09:13 local time (06:13 GMT).

It said the helicopter was on a scenic flight from a wildlife conservancy in Loisaba to Ewaso Nyiro, a river that flows along several national reserves.

An image shared online shows smoke at the crash site at Mount Ololokwe.

The Kenya Red Cross has told the BBC that the area is not yet accessible, but drones are being used to assess the scene.

The KCAA said the accident involved a Eurocopter EC130 B4 and it was co-ordinating operations.

The transport ministry and Air Accident Investigations Department would lead “investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident”, it added.

Samburu county is a popular tourist destination with many private wildlife conservancies and is renowned for its stunning scenery.

Helicopter crashes are not uncommon in Kenya.

In February, a helicopter crash in the Rift Valley county of Nandi killed six people, including a member of parliament.

In 2024, the military chief, Gen Francis Omondi Ogolla, died after an army helicopter that was carrying 11 people crashed in the west of the country, with only two survivors.

In June 2021, at least 10 soldiers were killed when their helicopter crashed while landing near the capital, Nairobi.

The suspect, identified as Muktar Shehu of Zango Ward in Jimeta was brought before the court by the Police Command on allegations of house trespass, theft and criminal charm.

According to a First Information Report (FIR) presented to the court by the prosecutor, Inspector Danjuma Hamidu, the incident occurred on August 6, 2026.

The prosecution alleged that Shehu broke into the home of Halima Yakubu and took 22 pairs of pants along with other clothing items.

The prosecutor told the court that during police interrogation, the suspect allegedly admitted taking the clothing items for ritual purposes.

When the charges were read to him in court, Shehu pleaded guilty.

Following his plea, the prosecutor applied to call a witness to corroborate the admission.

The court subsequently ordered that the suspect be remanded at a correctional facility pending further proceedings.

The suspect, Nura Usman, and his father’s former wife, Izzatu Aliyu, appeared before Magistrate’s Court where they were charged with conspiracy to commit an offence and attempted murder.

Prosecuting counsel told the court that the charges were fresh and sought permission for them to be read to the two accused persons.

The prosecution alleged that Nura, described as the complainant’s son, and Izzatu, his former wife, conspired with others and offered them N500,000 to kill the complainant, Alhaji Usman Shanono, a resident of Dan Tsinke.

According to the prosecution, the person allegedly contracted to carry out the killing later informed Alhaji Usman that his son and former wife had offered him N500,000 to murder him.

The prosecution further alleged that a plan was subsequently staged to make it appear that Alhaji Usman had been killed, with his wristwatch taken as evidence.

The development reportedly led to the commencement of mourning rites, during which Alhaji Usman suddenly appeared alongside security personnel.

The security operatives subsequently arrested the suspects after it was discovered that the alleged assassination had not taken place.

The prosecution subsequently requested an adjournment to enable it to obtain further directives from the government.

The court granted the request and adjourned the case to September 7, 2026, for the re-arraignment of the defendants.

According to him, the historical bonds between the two countries, forged through the struggle for African liberation, must now be translated into tangible opportunities for their people.

Mr. Gunu made the call when Namibia’s High Commissioner to Ghana, H.E. Mrs. Ndiyakupi Nghituwamata paid a three-day familiarisation visit and courtesy call on authorities in the Volta Region.

Speaking on Ghana-Namibia relations, the Regional Minister said the relationship between the two countries goes beyond diplomatic protocols, describing it as one rooted in liberation, Pan-Africanism, solidarity and a shared commitment to Africa’s development.

He recalled the role Ghana played in Namibia’s liberation struggle, particularly the participation of Namibia’s founding president, Dr. Sam Nujoma, in the first All-African Peoples’ Conference, held in Accra in December 1958 under Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.

Mr. Gunu noted that Ghana’s support for Namibia during the liberation struggle included political, diplomatic, and moral backing, as well as educational and training opportunities for young Namibians.

He said the historical ties were further strengthened following Namibia’s independence in 1990, leading to formal bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

The Regional Minister cited the signing of a Framework Agreement for Cooperation in February 1992 and subsequent agreements covering economic and technical cooperation, culture, science, education, and diplomatic consultations as evidence of the growing partnership.

He also highlighted the Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation between Ghana and Namibia as an important platform for strengthening bilateral relations and identifying areas of mutual interest.

Mr. Gunu said the relationship must now move beyond its historical and political foundations to focus more strongly on trade, investment, tourism, skills development, and entrepreneurship.

He particularly encouraged businesses in Ghana to explore opportunities in Namibia while urging Namibian businesses to consider Ghana, including the Volta Region, as a gateway to the wider West African market.

The Minister also called for stronger collaboration between universities and technical institutions in the two countries to equip young people with relevant skills and create opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship.

He commended the Namibian High Commission for promoting cultural diplomacy, citing the maiden “Namibia Meets Ghana Cultural Night” held in June 2026 as an example of initiatives capable of deepening people-to-people relations.

Mr. Gunu said such engagements provide platforms for diplomats, traditional leaders, businesses, tourism stakeholders, creatives, and citizens of both countries to interact and build lasting relationships.

He stressed that the generation that fought for political independence had laid the foundation, adding that the responsibility of the current generation was to use that freedom to achieve economic independence and improve living standards.

He therefore called for greater collaboration between Ghana and Namibia to create decent jobs, expand trade, develop human capital, and improve opportunities for the youth.

Mr. Gunu further recalled Dr. Sam Nujoma’s visit to the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum in Accra in 2004, where the former Namibian President wrote in the visitors’ book, “United We Stand and Divided We Fall, Long Live African Union.”

He said the statement continued to capture the essence of Ghana-Namibia relations and the broader vision of African unity.

The Volta Regional Minister expressed confidence that closer cooperation between Ghana and Namibia would strengthen African solidarity and contribute to the continent’s economic transformation.

He concluded by calling for stronger friendship between the people of the Volta Region and Namibia, saying both sides must trade more, learn more, travel more, and work more closely together.

“Long live Volta and Namibia friendship. Long live Ghana-Namibia friendship. Long live African solidarity,” Mr.Junu said.

The Ambassador, on her part, underscored the importance of strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between Ghana and Namibia, noting that engagements at the regional level could open up new opportunities for cooperation.

The visit forms part of efforts by the Namibian diplomatic mission to engage key stakeholders in Ghana and identify opportunities for collaboration beyond the national level.

The meeting ended with both sides expressing their commitment to exploring practical areas of cooperation for the mutual benefit of the people of Ghana, Namibia and the Volta Region.

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President Mahama is expected to assume the AU Chairmanship in January next year.

The committee is chaired by Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and brings together diplomats, academics, public servants and other experts with extensive experience in African affairs.

The committee members are Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas, Amb. Kwasi Quartey, Amb. Chris Kpodo, Amb. Amma A. Twum-Amoah, Dr Delese Mimi Darko, Amb. William Awinador-Kanyirige, Mr Larry Gbevlo-Lartey, Dr Edem Adzogenu, Amb. Khadija Iddrisu, Amb. Francis D. Kotia, Dr Obodai Torto and Mr Clarence Amoatey.

Mr Ablakwa said President Mahama is determined to have an “impactful and transformative tenure” as AU Chairman from day one to meet the expectations of Africa’s 1.5 billion people.

He commended members of the committee for their dedication and sacrifices and called on the public to share their views on the issues they believe President Mahama should prioritise during his tenure.

The authority said the process would be halted nationwide with immediate effect, citing concerns over reports of violence that had “resulted in the theft of marked ballot papers in ballot boxes”.

President Hakainde Hichilema is seeking a second five-year term. Brian Mundubile is the main opposition candidate among 13 challengers.

The electoral commission had previously set a target to announce the results by the end of Sunday.

Counting got underway immediately after polls closed on Thursday, but no official results had been declared when the halt in the count came into effect.

In Friday’s statement the commission said it would review the decision to suspend vote counting within the next 24 hours.

Just hours before the commission’s statement, Mundubile expressed “grave concern” over delays in announcing the presidential results, warning that the delay could create opportunities for interference or manipulation.

He cited what he described as “deeply troubling reports” from several areas, including alleged military involvement at totalling centres and allegations concerning the movement of ballot boxes.

He called for the immediate publication of results polling station by polling station, protection of the chain of custody and investigations into the reported incidents.

Hichilema also issued a statement urging Zambians to “remain peaceful, patient and patriotic as we await the official outcome from those entrusted with managing the vote”.

Polling day was largely peaceful, with queues reported in many areas and only isolated delays. Along with electing a president and MPs, the more than eight million registered voters had the chance to choose a new parliament and local councils.

Thursday’s vote was seen as a test of Zambia’s reputation as one of Africa’s most stable democracies, amid concerns that  political freedoms are being undermined.

Despite 14 candidates being on the presidential ballot paper, the contest was largely seen as a two-horse race between the incumbent and his main challenger Mundubile – running on the banner of the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRPUP).

Hichilema is credited with steering Zambia through a difficult economic climate but his popularity was dented as many people said their circumstances have not improved. Mundubile hoped to capitalise on that dissatisfaction.

Mundubile is a former minister in the Patriotic Front (PF)  government that ruled from 2011 to 2021, with his alliance drawing support from backers of the late former President, Edgar Lungu.

Lungu died more than a year ago and his body remains unburied in South Africa, amid a bitter dispute between Lungu’s family and Hichilema, which has heightened political divisions in Zambia.

Hichilema, 64, won the 2021 election on his sixth attempt and is betting on job creation and an ambitious infrastructure drive to secure a second and final term.

The election was seen as a referendum on his economic record, which has boasted debt restructuring, currency strengthening and lowered inflation.

But his United Party for National Development (UPND) government has also been criticised by Amnesty International for restricting rights and freedoms in the run-up to this election, an accusation that Zambian authorities have yet to comment on.

Civil society monitors reported mostly orderly voting alongside some incidents of delays and procedural issues. International observers are present.

Mwiche Nalupumbwe, 26, was among hundreds who braved Thursday’s morning chill to queue at polling stations well before they opened.

“Zambians are frustrated and this election is a 50-50, that is why we are all here early to make the change,” he told the AFP news agency.

“I voted for HH because he cares about us,” James Phiri, a 29-year-old student at the University of Zambia, told the Reuters news agency, using a common nickname for the president.

“Things are better after he re-introduced meal allowances,” he said.

Samuel Chitendwe, a 47-year-old welder and father of four, said he voted for Mundubile.

“I have just come from firing someone. We are tired of stories about economic progress,” he told Reuters.

If no presidential candidate gets more than 50% of the vote a run-off must be held within 37 days.

Additional reporting by Natasha Booty

Correction 14 August 2026: This story was amended to say the Sunday deadline for announcing the result was one set by the electoral commission and not the law.

The clash on Monday is ​the latest incident in ​Nigeria’s northwest, where heavily armed gangs known locally as bandits frequently carry ​out killings, kidnappings for ​ransom, and cattle theft despite security ‌operations.

Police ⁠spokesperson Ani Iniedu said officers killed at least 17 of the attackers after intercepting ​the ​heavily ⁠armed group moving between Zamfara and Kebbi states.

Iniedu ​said reinforcements had ​been ⁠deployed to the area, which was now under control, as ⁠security ​forces pursued fleeing ​suspects.

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The three content creators who work with online communications platform Feenal Digital were handed custodial sentences following their prosecution over TikTok posts considered offensive to the president.

According to their lawyer, the posts were intended as comedy and did not warrant criminal charges. He argued that the content creators should not have faced prosecution over satirical expressions shared online.

Mandoumbe Diop received the longest sentence of three months in prison without suspension. Diop, who has more than half a million followers on TikTok, is known for videos that often attract tens of thousands of views.

Two other influencers, Magueye Diaw and Moustapha Ndiaye were each sentenced to two months in prison without parole.

Reuters reports that Diaw and Ndiaye were also fined 500,000 CFA francs (about US$800) each.

The three men are associated with Feenal Digital, a platform that describes itself as producing content promoting government and private-sector activities. The platform has, however, been linked by critics to content that is favourable to the political movement of former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, leader of the PASTEF party.

The case comes at a politically sensitive time in Senegal, following tensions between President Faye and his former ally Sonko, who recently moved to establish his own political party.

The convictions have drawn criticism from free speech advocates, who argue that criminalising online commentary, especially satire, could threaten Senegal’s reputation as one of West Africa’s strongest democracies.

Authorities have yet to issue a detailed public response to the criticism, while Feenal Digital and government representatives have not immediately commented on the ruling.

President John Dramani Mahama made the declaration while addressing a special sitting of Jamaica’s Parliament on Tuesday as part of his State Visit to the Caribbean nation.

He commended the Jamaican government and people for advancing the global campaign for reparatory justice and reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at addressing the historical consequences of the transatlantic slave trade.

Jamaica announced in June that government officials would travel to the United Kingdom in September to formally present a petition to King Charles III, who serves as Jamaica’s Head of State.

The petition is expected to seek legal guidance on Jamaica’s claim for reparations from Britain over its role in the transatlantic slave trade and slavery.

President Mahama also disclosed plans to champion a continental initiative that will make it easier for people of African descent in the diaspora to return to Africa, settle and access residency or citizenship opportunities when he assumes the Chairmanship of the African Union (AU).

He said the initiative would form part of broader efforts to strengthen ties between Africa and the diaspora and address the historical separation caused by slavery and colonialism.

The proposed “right of return” framework is based on the principle that people of African descent whose ancestors were forcibly taken from Africa through the transatlantic slave trade should have pathways to return, establish residence and potentially acquire citizenship in African countries.

President Mahama is expected to use Ghana’s historical role in the transatlantic slave trade and its position as a key destination for diaspora engagement to advance discussions on reparatory justice and stronger Africa-diaspora relations at the continental level.

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According to President Mahama, expanding the AfCFTA framework to accommodate Caribbean nations will strengthen economic relations between Africa and the Caribbean while creating new opportunities for trade, investment and economic cooperation.

He made the remarks during a joint press conference with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness as part of his official visit to Jamaica.

President Mahama said while increasing trade volumes between Africa and the Caribbean would require deliberate efforts, investment in infrastructure and logistics, as well as the expansion of the trade area, would be critical to achieving that goal.

“With regards to trade, we don’t kid ourselves that you snap your fingers and suddenly our trade volumes will go up. We need to work at it. And that is why I said one way of working at it is to put in the infrastructure and the logistics. But the second is to expand the trade area.

“And that is why I said as chair of the AU, I am going to push for the inclusion of the Caribbean into the African Continental Free Trade Area.”

The President explained that the AfCFTA is designed to facilitate trade among participating countries through the harmonisation of product standards and certification processes.

He noted that once a product meets the required standards and is approved by the relevant national standards authority, it can be registered for export to other markets within the trade area.

“The way the African Continental Free Trade Area works is that we harmonise our standards. And once you get approval from your standards authority that your product is of the standard that you can export, then they put you on a register.

“And if you go on, you can see which commodities qualify. They can be electrical cables. They can be transformers. They can be iron and steel products. They can be processed food products.

“I mean, there are so many pharmaceutical products. And so once you go in there and you decide to trade, you go on the platform. It will get you in touch with the producer in whichever country.”

President Mahama said the proposed closer economic integration between Africa and the Caribbean could provide a platform for businesses on both sides of the Atlantic to explore new markets, partnerships and investment opportunities.

He stressed that strengthening trade links would build on the longstanding historical and cultural connections between Africa and the Caribbean while creating practical economic benefits for businesses and citizens in both regions.

The wreath-laying ceremony, held on Thursday, July 30, was attended by members of the Rawlings family, government officials and military officers.

President Oligui Nguema, who arrived in Ghana on Tuesday for an official visit, described the late Ghanaian leader as a patriot whose dedication to Africa’s development continues to inspire the people of Gabon.

In a statement read on his behalf, the Gabonese leader praised President Rawlings for his unwavering commitment to sovereignty, justice and progress across the continent.

He noted that Rawlings’ speeches and writings had contributed significantly to Gabon’s political transition, which he said has become an example of transparency, peace and credibility.

“His speeches and writings have notably contributed to the success story of Gabon’s transition, which is now quoted as an example in the world. We are now able to be transparent, peaceful and credible. I would like to hail the contributions of this great man to a strong and united Africa,” the statement said.

The ceremony was attended by National Security Advisor Prosper Bani, Deputy Minister for Defence Brogya Genfi and the Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong.

Delivering the vote of thanks, Executive Director of the J.J. Rawlings Foundation, Yaa Asantewaa Agyeman-Rawlings, expressed the family’s appreciation to President Oligui Nguema for the gesture and thanked the Government of Ghana for its continued support in preserving the legacy of the late former President.

She described the wreath-laying as a powerful symbol of the longstanding friendship between Ghana and Gabon, rooted in the Pan-African ideals championed by President Rawlings and other African leaders of his generation.

“This solemn gesture is a moving affirmation of the enduring camaraderie between the peoples of Ghana and Gabon—a friendship nurtured by President Jerry John Rawlings and the leaders of his generation, founded on mutual respect, Pan-African solidarity, and a shared vision for the progress of our continent,” she said.

Ms. Agyeman-Rawlings added that the occasion served as a reminder of the responsibility inherited by the current generation of leaders to preserve and strengthen the bonds established by their predecessors.

“May this wreath stand as a symbol that the baton of brotherhood has been passed to the present generation of leaders in Ghana and Gabon, who will continue to deepen the ties between our two nations for the benefit of our peoples,” she stated.

Members of the Rawlings family present at the ceremony included the family head, Colonel (Rtd) Joshua Agbotui, Amina Agyeman-Rawlings, Kimathi Agyeman-Rawlings, Fritz Baffour, General Benjamin Kusi and Nana Kobi Agyeman-Prempeh.

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At the end of the 2027 academic year, the expansive boarding school campus near Johannesburg is to be handed over to local education authorities as per the original agreement, her statement says.

Students enrolled at the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls (OWLAG) who will not have graduated when it closes will be offered full scholarships elsewhere.

More than 1,000 girls have graduated from the school aimed at those from under-privileged backgrounds and inspired after Winfrey met anti-apartheid icon and former South African President Nelson Mandela in 2002.

Since opening its doors, the elite school – built at a cost of $40m (£20m) and located in the village of Henley-on-Klip south of Johannesburg – has not been without scandal, sparking rumours about the reason for its closure.

But a PR consultant working for the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy Foundation denied online speculation it was closing because of mismanagement

The foundation said Winfrey intended to continue with her education project by funding in a scholarship programme for academically talented girls from communities across the country to go to leading schools.

“The dream was never simply to build a school,” Winfrey, 72, explained in a statement.

“It was to invest in the limitless potential of young women. That mission doesn’t end with one campus. It continues in every girl whose future can be transformed through education.

“I’m excited that this next chapter will allow us to reach even more young women across South Africa and continue the promise that began more than 20 years ago.”

It is not known what the OWLAG campus will be used for once it is returned to the local authorities, but Gauteng province’s education department says it is “committed to preserving and advancing the academy’s legacy”.

“We will ensure that this exceptional institution continues to serve the people of Gauteng while honouring the vision upon which it was established,” it said.

When the school opened in 2007, some commentators criticised its lavish campus – it reportedly had two theatres, a yoga studio and a beauty salon.

They questioned whether the money spent on it could have been better used to help more students around the country.

Then months after OWLAG opened, some students accused a former staff member of abuse. She was later cleared on all charges.

There are currently 281 students enrolled at the school.

According to the US star’s Oprah Daily website, many of the school’s graduates have become doctors, lawyers, engineers, artists, executives and entrepreneurs.

It quotes Andronica Klaas, a graduate of 2012 and now a senior engineering lead at tech giant Meta, as saying: “Every corner of the campus was filled with so much love and care and detail.

“OWLAG convinced me that preparation, character and purpose mattered more than where I came from.”

The agreements were signed on Tuesday, July 28, following bilateral talks between President John Dramani Mahama and his Gabonese counterpart, President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, at the Jubilee House in Accra.

The meeting, which followed a private tête-à-tête between the two leaders, focused on expanding cooperation across key sectors and reinforcing the longstanding relationship between the two West African nations.

President Mahama and President Oligui Nguema expressed satisfaction with the cordial relations that have existed between Ghana and Gabon over the years and pledged to translate their strong political ties into tangible economic partnerships.

The two leaders agreed to strengthen collaboration in trade, investment and private sector development while taking advantage of opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost intra-African trade and regional integration.

They also identified several priority areas for cooperation, including mining and mineral value addition, oil and gas, energy, agriculture, fisheries and aquaculture, forestry and climate action, maritime affairs, education, digital transformation, health, tourism, as well as defence and security.

To facilitate the implementation of these initiatives, the Presidents directed the relevant ministries and state institutions in both countries to develop practical frameworks for collaboration.

The bilateral meeting concluded with the signing of two agreements. The first was a Memorandum of Understanding on Political Consultations between the Government of Ghana and the Government of the Gabonese Republic, while the second focused on cooperation in diplomatic training between Ghana’s Foreign Service Institute and Gabon’s Institute of Diplomatic Studies.

The two governments said the agreements are expected to strengthen institutional partnerships, enhance diplomatic cooperation and create new opportunities for collaboration across strategic sectors.

As part of his official visit, President Oligui Nguema also planted a commemorative tree in the Jubilee House gardens to symbolise the growing friendship and cooperation between Ghana and Gabon.

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He was received at the Accra International Airport with a guard of honour mounted by the Ghana Armed Forces.

During the visit, President Nguema is expected to hold bilateral talks with President John Dramani Mahama at the Presidency.

The discussions will focus on enhancing trade, regional security, economic cooperation and continental unity.

Ahead of the talks, the Gabonese leader visited the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, where he paid tribute to Ghana’s founding President and pan-African icon, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah.

Below are some photos

Photo credit : Presidency

Speaking during a high-level working lunch between the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) and the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), Mr Annoh-Dompreh said Africa’s enormous reserves of critical minerals, expanding trade opportunities and environmental assets must be transformed into industrial growth, jobs and prosperity.

The meeting brought together the PAP Bureau and chairpersons of permanent committees to examine South Africa’s G20 Presidency, Africa’s role within the G20, and the implications of the incoming United States Presidency for the continent, particularly on debt, trade, climate finance and BRICS.

While commending the policy briefing, Mr Annoh-Dompreh said Africa had long articulated its position in the global order.

The greater challenge, he argued, was turning those aspirations into practical policies that improve the lives of ordinary Africans.

He pointed to Africa’s vast deposits of minerals needed for the global energy transition and said the continent should be using them as leverage.

“Africa has some of the world’s largest deposits of these critical minerals. That should give us considerable leverage in the global energy transition.”

He questioned whether Africa had developed a coherent continental strategy to govern, extract and commercialise these resources, warning that without greater coordination, African countries would continue exporting raw minerals while other economies captured the greater value through refining, manufacturing and technology production.

Responding to the concerns, Southern Transitions representative Jordan McLean highlighted the African Green Minerals Strategy and the work of the African Minerals Development Centre as foundations for a coordinated continental approach.

She noted that Africa holds about 30 per cent of the world’s reserves of key minerals and should use that position to negotiate stronger partnerships, promote value addition and participate across the production chain.

“External partners are not approaching Africa’s minerals only through the prism of the energy transition. They are also seeking to secure access to those resources.”

Mr Annoh-Dompreh also challenged what he described as inequities in global climate finance, questioning why promised financial support for developing countries had repeatedly failed to materialise.

“In the face of the vulnerabilities confronting our continent, how do we position ourselves when the polluter-pays principle is globally accepted, yet the promised support does not arrive?”

He observed that developed countries industrialised through carbon-intensive growth, while African countries are now expected to pursue cleaner development under stricter environmental rules.

“The developed world industrialised through pollution at a time when there was no comparable international climate regime. Africa is now moving towards industrialisation, but the global message is that we must rely on renewable and clean energy.”

The Ghanaian legislator also questioned the credibility of some carbon credit arrangements operating across Africa and called for common standards to ensure transparency and protect local communities.

“How do we position ourselves as a continent when questions are being raised about the credibility of carbon-credit declarations and arrangements?”

Turning to trade, he said the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) remained one of the world’s most ambitious trade agreements, but its benefits were yet to be fully felt by ordinary Africans.

“We have signed the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement, one of the largest trade arrangements beyond the World Trade Organisation (WTO), but it is still not being felt by the people.”

He further urged policymakers and researchers to communicate continental policies in simpler language so citizens could better understand and benefit from them.

“How do we simplify this framework beyond theory so that the average African can recognise it as a continental instrument and understand the direction in which we are collectively moving?”

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Addressing Heads of State and Government on the second day of the African Union Extraordinary Summit, President Mahama said Africa’s pharmaceutical manufacturing agenda has moved beyond ambition and is now entering a phase of implementation.

He noted that the continent’s heavy reliance on imported essential medicines and health commodities continues to expose African countries to significant vulnerabilities, making it imperative to invest in local pharmaceutical production.

According to the President, strengthening domestic manufacturing capacity will improve access to essential medicines, enhance health security and support Africa’s broader industrialisation agenda.

He said developing the pharmaceutical industry would also contribute to economic transformation by creating employment opportunities for the continent’s growing youth population.

President Mahama further expressed concern about the decline in international development assistance for health, noting that many African countries continue to depend heavily on external funding to sustain their healthcare systems.

He described the situation as a defining moment for the continent, calling for bold, homegrown solutions that will make African health systems more resilient and self-sufficient.

The President emphasised that investment in healthcare should be regarded not only as a social responsibility but also as an economic strategy capable of driving sustainable growth, industrial development and job creation.

He urged African leaders, health ministers, policymakers and development partners to move beyond policy declarations and translate their commitments into concrete actions.

President Mahama stressed that the future of healthcare on the continent will depend on decisive leadership, sustained investment and a collective commitment to building a competitive pharmaceutical manufacturing industry in Africa.

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Speaking during a meeting with the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, President Mahama said Ghana had begun developing its agenda for its tenure as AU Chair, with reparations, gender equality and child welfare among its top priorities.

“We have started looking at some issues that we will push on the agenda the year that we chair. We are already champions in several areas. One is reparations,” the President said.

President Mahama highlighted Ghana’s leadership in advancing the reparations agenda on the global stage, noting that the country, with the backing of the African Union, successfully sponsored what he described as a historic motion on reparations at the United Nations General Assembly.

“With the support of the AU, we were able to move a historic motion on the floor of the General Assembly. We’ve held the follow-up conference here in Accra called ‘The Next Steps’,” he stated.

He revealed that Ghana is planning another high-level meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly to review progress made by committees established to advance the reparations agenda.

“So we are looking again on the sidelines of the UN to hold a high-level meeting to review the work the committees have started to do,” President Mahama added.

The President said Ghana intends to build on its existing advocacy efforts during its tenure as AU Chair while also promoting initiatives aimed at advancing gender equality and improving the welfare of children across the continent.

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The President said the engagement provided an opportunity for both countries to openly discuss an issue that continues to raise concerns across Africa.

President Mahama made the disclosure when he received the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, at the Jubilee House in Accra on Wednesday, July 22.

He said he used the meeting with the South African delegation to explain Ghana’s concerns about the attacks, stressing that addressing the matter openly was necessary to find a lasting solution.

“On July 21, President Cyril Ramaphosa sent a delegation to me, and I explained the reason why we need to discuss it. Sometimes these things happen, and we want to sweep them under the carpet, but when we do that, we do not cure what the problem is,” he said.

President Mahama emphasised that Ghana’s concerns should not be interpreted as hostility towards South Africa but rather as a constructive effort to encourage transparency and highlight measures being taken to address the situation.

“I told them that Ghana does not harbour any malice against South Africa, but we are raising it so it gives them the platform to explain what they are doing to the world,” he added.

He further appealed to the African Union to take a more active role in addressing recurring xenophobic attacks, warning that such incidents undermine efforts towards continental unity, free movement and regional integration.

President Mahama noted that Ghana had incurred significant costs evacuating some of its citizens from South Africa following previous attacks, highlighting the wider human and financial impact of xenophobic violence.

His comments come amid renewed calls for coordinated continental action to tackle xenophobia and strengthen the protection of African citizens living and working across the continent.

She said Africa’s long-term health security will depend on its ability to finance its own priorities and build resilient health institutions capable of responding to emerging challenges.

Speaking on behalf of Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang at a High-Level Interactive Policy Dialogue in Accra on July 20, Prof. Ayensu-Danquah urged African governments to strengthen domestic health financing as global development assistance becomes increasingly uncertain.

The dialogue, organised by the African Renaissance Trust and the Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete Foundation on the sidelines of the African Union Extraordinary Summit, focused on advancing domestic health financing, accountability and strategic innovation across the continent.

Reflecting on the Abuja Declaration, under which African countries pledged 25 years ago to allocate at least 15 per cent of their national budgets to health, the Deputy Minister said the continent must critically assess its progress in light of changing global financing realities.

“Official development assistance is less certain. Long-standing funding models are changing. Programmes that many health systems have relied on can no longer be taken for granted,” she said.

“That reality means Africa must strengthen its ability to finance its own priorities, build enduring institutions and invest in health not as a recurring expense, but as a foundation for economic growth and human development.”

Prof. Ayensu-Danquah said Ghana is pursuing universal health coverage through policies aimed at expanding access to quality healthcare, improving health outcomes and reducing out-of-pocket healthcare costs.

She highlighted the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, popularly known as MahamaCares, and the Free Primary Healthcare Initiative as two flagship programmes introduced to address financing gaps and improve healthcare delivery.

According to her, the Ghana Medical Trust Fund provides financial support for the diagnosis, treatment and long-term management of chronic non-communicable diseases that are either inadequately covered or not covered under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

She said the fund also supports specialist healthcare by investing in medical infrastructure, equipment, research and specialist training.

On the Free Primary Healthcare Initiative, Prof. Ayensu-Danquah explained that the programme complements the NHIS by expanding access to essential primary healthcare services, with a strong focus on disease prevention and early detection.

She said every Ghanaian will be entitled to routine health screening for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and certain cancers, as well as maternal and child healthcare, immunisation, treatment of common illnesses, community outreach, home visits and public health education.

The initiative, she noted, is being rolled out in phases, beginning with 150 underserved districts before nationwide implementation over the next few years.

The Deputy Minister also announced that the government has committed an initial investment of US$50 million to establish the National Vaccine Institute to boost local vaccine production and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

She said the investment builds on Ghana’s growing regulatory capacity, including the Food and Drugs Authority’s attainment of the World Health Organization’s Maturity Level 3 status and ongoing efforts to commercialise locally manufactured anti-snake venom.

Prof. Ayensu-Danquah welcomed the launch of the African Renaissance Health Financing Insights Dashboard, describing it as an important accountability tool that will help governments monitor health financing commitments and measure progress across the continent.

She stressed that building resilient health systems requires more than financing, calling for greater investment in pharmaceutical manufacturing, research, innovation, workforce development and stronger continental health institutions.

Concluding her remarks, the Deputy Minister urged African governments to move beyond policy commitments and deliver tangible improvements in healthcare.

“Our declarations must be translated into measurable progress in the lives of our people,” she said.

She reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to working with the African Union, regional institutions and development partners to build stronger, more resilient and self-reliant health systems across Africa.

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She said sustainable healthcare on the continent can only be achieved if governments take greater responsibility for funding the sector instead of relying heavily on foreign assistance, which she described as increasingly unpredictable.

Speaking at the African Union Extraordinary Health Summit in Accra on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, Ambassador Twum-Amoah acknowledged the value of international partnerships but stressed that external support should complement, not replace, national investment in healthcare.

“We must transform health financing. Africa cannot build sustainable health systems on unpredictable and declining external assistance,” she said.

She called on African governments to strengthen domestic resource mobilisation and ensure healthcare remains a key priority in national budgets.

The AU Health Commissioner also urged countries to safeguard health sector allocations, improve the management of public funds and address inefficiencies that reduce the impact of available resources.

Ambassador Twum-Amoah further renewed calls for African nations to honour the Abuja Declaration by allocating at least 15 per cent of their national budgets to the health sector.

She, however, noted that increasing funding alone would not be enough, stressing that governments must also ensure resources are used efficiently to improve health outcomes.

“This is not simply about spending more. It is about spending better, prioritising prevention, primary healthcare, health workers, essential medicines, and services for those furthest behind,” she added.

According to her, investing in preventive healthcare, strengthening the frontline health workforce and improving access to essential medicines will be crucial to tackling the continent’s persistent health challenges and building stronger, more resilient health systems.

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The agreement was signed in Freetown, Sierra Leone, on Sunday during the summit of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The 6,800-kilometre pipeline is expected to transport Nigerian natural gas along Africa’s Atlantic coastline to Morocco, with the potential to supply European markets through existing connections.

The project, initially conceived as a bilateral initiative between Nigeria and Morocco, has now gained broader regional backing with the involvement of ECOWAS member states in its governance framework.

It was launched after a 2016 meeting between Morocco’s King Mohammed VI and former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari. It is being developed by Morocco’s National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines (ONHYM) and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC).

Moroccan officials say the pipeline reflects King Mohammed VI’s vision of a more integrated and energy-secure Africa, built around shared infrastructure and regional cooperation.

The Freetown agreement marks a major institutional step, although further arrangements are expected to be concluded in Morocco involving Morocco, Nigeria and Mauritania.

Mauritania, like Morocco, is not an ECOWAS member but remains a key country along the proposed route.

The next phase will focus on establishing the project’s management structures, including a dedicated project company expected to be based in Casablanca and a Pipeline Higher Authority to be headquartered in Abuja.

These bodies will oversee operational, regulatory and financial issues while coordinating with participating governments, energy companies, investors and international financial institutions.

The project partners are expected to intensify efforts to secure financing after the completion of technical, environmental and engineering studies.

When completed, the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline will pass through 13 African countries before connecting to Morocco’s existing Maghreb–Europe Gas Pipeline network.

The pipeline is projected to transport about 30 billion cubic metres of natural gas annually. Up to 15 billion cubic metres could be supplied to Morocco and European markets, while the remaining volumes would support energy needs in participating West African countries.

The estimated cost of the project is about $25 billion, with construction expected to begin once financing and regulatory arrangements are finalised.

Beyond gas transportation, the project is being positioned as a regional development corridor that could improve electricity generation, support industrial growth and encourage investment across West Africa.

Several countries along the proposed route continue to face energy challenges, including power shortages and high production costs. Access to natural gas could help improve energy reliability and strengthen industrial competitiveness.

Supporters believe the pipeline could also encourage the development of domestic gas resources, create jobs and deepen economic cooperation among participating countries.

For Europe, the project could provide an additional source of natural gas as countries seek to diversify energy supplies amid global geopolitical uncertainty.

However, officials involved in the project say its primary focus remains improving energy access and supporting economic development within Africa.

The Nigeria–Morocco partnership remains at the heart of the project, combining Nigeria’s position as one of Africa’s leading gas producers with Morocco’s strategic location and infrastructure capabilities.

The Freetown endorsement signals a shift from a mainly bilateral initiative into a broader African integration project.

The next major challenge will be turning political support into concrete financing, construction and long-term operation of what could become one of Africa’s largest energy infrastructure projects.

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The 46-year-old leader assumed the position following a decision by regional leaders, placing him at the helm of the West African bloc’s highest decision-making body.

Faye emerged as the new leader of the regional bloc during the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority held in Sierra Leone.

He takes over from Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio, who assumed the position in June 2025 following the completion of President Bola Tinubu’s tenure as chairman. 

President Faye’s new role will see him provide leadership and direction on key regional issues, including economic integration, peace and security, democratic governance, and cooperation among ECOWAS member states.

His election comes at a critical time for the regional organisation, which has faced challenges including political instability in some member states, security threats, and efforts to strengthen unity among West African countries.

President Faye, who became Senegal’s youngest president after winning the 2024 presidential election, has been widely recognised for his reform agenda and calls for greater sovereignty and cooperation among African nations.

His assumption of the ECOWAS chairmanship places him at the centre of efforts to navigate the future direction of the 15-member regional bloc.

In another major appointment, General Birame Diop, Senegal’s former Minister of Defence and former Chief of the General Staff of the Senegalese Armed Forces, has been named President of the ECOWAS Commission.

General Diop, who also previously served as an adviser to the United Nations Secretary-General, is expected to take over the leadership of the ECOWAS Commission on September 1, 2026, at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria.

The caucus says Parliament must be updated on the government’s response to the incident and the measures being taken to protect Ghanaians living in South Africa amid renewed concerns over attacks on foreign nationals.

Raising the matter on the floor of Parliament, the Deputy Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee and Member of Parliament for Bosome Freho, Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh, said legislators needed an official briefing on the circumstances surrounding the incident and its implications for relations between Ghana and South Africa.

“The young Ghanaian who was shot and killed in South Africa was brought to Ghana. This House has requested that the Minister for Foreign Affairs be scheduled to appear before the House to brief us on issues relating to the diplomatic relationship between Ghana and South Africa,” he said.

Mr Asafo-Adjei Ayeh said the widespread public discussion surrounding the incident, particularly on social media, made it even more important for the government to provide clarity.

“We have been hearing a lot about the issue on social media, and I believe the Majority Leader should schedule the minister to appear before the House to brief us on Ghana’s relationship with South Africa,” he added.

Responding to the request, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga said the decision on whether the minister should address Parliament would depend on the nature and sensitivity of the issues involved.

“Whether or not the minister comes to brief the House on bilateral relations depends on the minister’s assessment of the sensitivity of the issues and whether they should be discussed,” Mr Ayariga stated.

The killing of Bashiru Isak has sparked renewed public concern over the safety of Ghanaians living in South Africa, prompting calls for stronger diplomatic engagement and enhanced protection for Ghanaian citizens abroad.

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The position was outlined during a parliamentary debate on the increasing number of Zimbabweans returning home from South Africa, where migrants have continued to face hostility, periodic xenophobic violence and calls for mass deportations.

Responding to concerns raised by lawmakers, Zimbabwe’s Justice Minister, Ziyambi Ziyambi, said the government has no intention of targeting South Africans who are legally residing in the country.

He stressed that Zimbabwe would continue to welcome foreign nationals who comply with its immigration laws, adding that the principle of Ubuntu guides the country’s approach.

“We do not have a policy of chasing away visitors,” the minister told Parliament.

His remarks come amid renewed concerns over xenophobic attacks in South Africa, where foreign nationals have frequently been blamed for crime, unemployment and pressure on public services, sparking anti-immigrant campaigns and isolated incidents of violence.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s Health Minister, Douglas Mombeshora, disclosed that more than 99,000 Zimbabweans returning from South Africa have undergone health screening for communicable diseases at border posts.

He said returnees suffering from chronic medical conditions have also been referred to health facilities to ensure they continue receiving treatment without interruption.

The Zimbabwean government said its decision reflects its commitment to protecting legally resident foreign nationals and maintaining its long-standing policy of hospitality, despite growing domestic calls for reciprocal action over the treatment of Zimbabwean migrants in South Africa.

The development comes as migration and recurring xenophobic tensions continue to test relations between South Africa and several countries across the continent.

Dozens of others, including school staff, were injured in the crash in the Kapchorwa area on Thursday evening.

Preliminary investigations show the bus suffered a mechanical fault before the driver lost control on Chekwatit Hill, a stretch of road that has been the site of several serious crashes, according to local officials.

“The driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, which veered off the road, struck a large stone along the roadside, and overturned,” police said.

The bus, carrying pupils from King David Junior School in Ndejje, crashed at about 20:00 local time (17:00 GMT) at Chekwatit village in Kawowo area, police said.

“Sadly, 20 children and 1 adult, who happens to be the founder and director, Mr Tadeo Ssekade, have gone to be with the Lord,” Minister of Local Government, Balaam Ateenyi Barugahara posted on X, while at the scene.

Videos shared by eyewitnesses showed the bus badly damaged, as local residents rushed to help the injured children.

The pupils were returning from a study tour, with local media reporting they had visited the Sipi Falls, a tourist area.

Uganda records thousands of road deaths every year, with speeding, poorly maintained vehicles and dangerous roads among the leading causes, according to traffic authorities.

The latest crash comes amid renewed concern over the safety of school transport after several serious bus accidents were reported in the country in recent weeks.

Police confirmed that Andile Mvuyelwa Somgxada, the Gauteng province leader of March and March, was shot outside his home east of Johannesburg earlier this month and died several days later in hospital.

“It’s a retaliation,” March and March spokesperson Sandile Dube told the BBC, explaining how the movement believed he was targeted because of its campaign to get undocumented migrants to leave the country.

He said other leaders of March and March, which has been organising anti-migrant demonstrations across the country, had recently received warnings or death threats.

“This seems like an orchestrated hitman type of killing,” Dube told the BBC’s Newsday programme, urging the authorities to get to the bottom of the matter and the intimidation the organisation was facing.

Acting police chief Lt Gen Puleng Dimpane has announced a multidisciplinary team to investigate the shooting, which he said underscored the seriousness with which the service was treating the case.

“We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding this murder and to ensure accountability,” she said in a statement on Tuesday evening.

Immigration – especially undocumented migration – has become a highly contentious  political issue in South Africa, with protesters accusing them of placing pressure on public services, as well as being involved in crime.

March and March had set an unofficial deadline of 30 June for all migrants without papers to leave the country. Protesters have promised to stage weekly marches until their demands are met.

The South African government has said more than 53,000 foreign nationals have been deported or repatriated since it launched a “migration management” campaign five weeks ago.

Xenophobia has long been an issue in South Africa, which is Africa’s wealthiest nation and has long attracted migrants searching for better economic opportunities.

It has sometimes led to violence – and this current round of demonstrations has seen violence, intimidation and looting.

On Tuesday, five people were arrested in Limpopo province for allegedly impersonating immigration officers and unlawfully demanding foreign nationals leave the country.

The police said the incident involved a Nigerian national – who was legally in South Africa – being intimidated and forced to close his business by the suspects.

Gallo Images via Getty Images

“The law applies equally to everyone; no individual or group has the authority to conduct immigration inspections, verify legal status, or remove people from communities” – Lt Gen Puleng Dimpane, Acting Police Commissioner.

Lt Gen Dimpane issued a “stern warning” to those who “continue to intimidate, harass and perpetrate violence against foreign nationals”.

“The law applies equally to everyone,” she said.

“No individual or group has the authority to conduct immigration inspections, verify legal status, or remove people from communities.”

When questioned on how some foreign nationals had been treated by anti-migrant protesters, Dube said March and March rejected “any form of violence – we reject any form of anti-law”.

There are more than three million documented foreign nationals in South Africa, according to official figures, which does not account for those in the country illegally.

Several countries, including Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria and Uganda, have been organising flights or buses for their citizens to return home in recent weeks.

On Wednesday, the last flight organised by the Nigerian government under its voluntary repatriation scheme landed in Lagos carrying 306 passengers. More than 1,200 Nigerians have now returned under the programme.

The Rastafarian community had argued that the ban on smoking cannabis infringed on their rights to freedom of religion and belief guaranteed under the constitution.

In a landmark judgement, Justice Bahati Mwamuye said the community had failed to prove drug laws violated their constitutional rights, but acknowledged the need for a broader national debate on cannabis.

There has been a continued push to legalise cannabis in Kenya, with advocates arguing that its regulated cultivation and trade could create jobs, boost tax revenue and support industrial and medicinal uses.

Under Kenya’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, possession of cannabis remains a criminal offence.

A person convicted of possessing cannabis solely for personal use is liable to up to five years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to $800 (£600).

Cultivating cannabis carries a penalty of a fine of $1,900 or three times the market value of the plants, whichever is greater, and/or up to 20 years in jail.

More severe penalties apply to trafficking and other drug-related offences.

In their petition, the Rastafari Society of Kenya had argued that cannabis was a sacred sacrament in their faith and sought permission for followers to grow, possess and use it privately during worship without fear of arrest.

It maintained it was not asking for the wholesale legalisation of cannabis, but a limited exemption for religious purposes in private homes and designated places of worship.

In their submission, the Rastafarians argued that smoking cannabis was part of their religious doctrine which must be respected and upheld.

But the state opposed their plea, arguing that creating a religious exemption would undermine the enforcement of Kenya’s anti-drug laws and could create loopholes for illegal cannabis trafficking.

Justice Mwamuye also found that the evidence presented on the centrality of cannabis to the Rastafari faith was inconsistent and insufficient to establish that its use was an essential element of the religion.

He upheld the constitutionality of the drug laws prohibiting the cultivation, possession and use of cannabis, dealing a major blow to the Rastafarians’ six-year legal battle.

The judge noted that any exemption permitting the use of cannabis for religious purposes would require a sound constitutional and legal foundation.

“We ought to have frank conversations on cannabis and which directions we should take,” Justice Mwamuye said.

“This is not a question for the Rastafarian community only. It is a national question that cuts across the entire spectrum of our society,” he added.

The community’s lawyer Danstan Omari said they would appeal against the court ruling.

“Kenya cannot be the only country that is harassing the Rastafarian people. We are determined to reverse that [court’s ruling] and bring back the dignity and respect of the Rastafarians in Kenya,” he said.

The judgment comes seven years after another High Court ruling recognised Rastafarianism as a protected religion in Kenya, finding that a school’s decision to expel a student over her dreadlocks violated her constitutional rights.

The number of Rastafarians in Kenya is unknown, but the movement is thought to be growing, especially among young people.

Their tradition of wearing dreadlocks also resonates with Kenya’s anti-colonial history as many of the Mau Mau fighters who resisted British rule in the 1950s wore their hair long and matted as a symbol of defiance.

The seizure was made at about 2:00 a.m. on July 12, 2026, by the Commercial Customs Brigade of Karang..

According to a report by the Gambia Youth And Women’s Forum, the suspect was travelling on a public transport vehicle from a neighbouring country when officers intercepted him and conducted a search.

During the inspection, officials discovered that the ecstasy pills had been carefully hidden inside the man’s prosthetic leg in what authorities described as an unusually sophisticated smuggling method.

Customs officials said the seizure underscores the increasingly complex tactics being employed by criminal networks to transport illicit drugs across borders.

The suspect has been taken into custody and is expected to be arraigned before the High Court to face legal proceedings.

Authorities say investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the attempted drug trafficking operation and to identify any other individuals connected to the case.

The charges had been dropped on health grounds, Information Minister Chernor Bah told the BBC.

The 72-year-old former president has always denied involvement in the November 2023 attempted coup when gunmen broke into a military armoury and several prisons, freeing almost 2,000 inmates.

Responding to his case being dropped, Koroma noted his “enduring conviction that peace, justice and reconciliation must always triumph over adversity”.

In his statement on Tuesday, Koroma also expressed gratitude towards Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and the West African regional bloc Ecowas for their support.

After Koroma was charged and placed under house arrest, Ecowas brokered a deal with the government of Sierra Leone, allowing the former president to go into exile in Nigeria and seek medical attention there.

The attorney general had then filed to discontinue the case against Koroma and drop the charges, Bah said.

“The former president is therefore free to return to Sierra Leone at a time of his choosing and to go about his normal business,” he added.

Koroma led Sierra Leone for 11 years until 2018, when current President Bio was elected.

Eleven civilians and 24 soldiers were found guilty of involvement in the coup attempt and received long prison terms in 2024.

Around 20 people were killed in the uprising, which came five months after a disputed election which saw President Bio narrowly re-elected for a second term.

The results were rejected by Koroma’s All People’s Congress. International observers also criticised the elections, highlighting a lack of transparency in the count.

Most were from Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, officials say, and the number is likely to rise as repatriations and deportations continue.

South Africa is carrying out one of its biggest crackdowns on undocumented migrants in years, following weeks of anti-immigration protests that have seen violence, intimidation and looting.

Protesters have been demanding tighter border controls and mass deportations, accusing migrants of contributing to high unemployment, rising crime rates and collapse of public services.

The UN has warned against using migrants as scapegoats for South Africa’s socioeconomic challenges.

Anti-migrant activists have threatened to stage weekly protests to pressure the government until their demands are met, and there are fears the protests could turn violent.

The demonstrators had set an “unofficial deadline” of 30 June for all undocumented migrants to leave the country, which has seen many foreigners leave to escape violence and intimidation.

Several countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda and Kenya, have flown their citizens home in recent weeks.

Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi announced on Sunday that 53,499 foreign nationals have been processed for deportation and repatriation, “which is dominated by the Malawians, followed by Zimbabweans and Mozambicans”.

“We are striving to achieve an orderly and regular migration which is mindful and sensitive to the concerns raised by our people, while observing human rights and dignity of all people in our country, irrespective of their citizenship and immigration status,” Kubayi told a news conference in Pretoria.

She said the repatriation and deportation process has helped them catch people who were wanted by the police for alleged criminal activity.

Authorities will continue to enforce its immigration laws, she added, but warned that protesters should not conduct unauthorised searches of homes and businesses that are suspected of sheltering undocumented migrants.

South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged public concerns about immigration but has condemned attacks against migrants, warning citizens against taking the law into their own hands.

South Africa is the continent’s wealthiest nation and has long attracted migrants searching for better economic opportunities, some of whom enter the illegally.

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, the woman said fear, uncertainty and limited access to healthcare have become part of their daily lives as they remain at the camp.

She, however, acknowledged support from the Church of Pentecost, which she said has been providing food assistance to the stranded Ghanaians.

“It’s been difficult, but when it comes to feeding, the Church of Pentecost is helping us,” she said.

According to her, many people at the camp are afraid to move freely because of concerns about being stopped by police and immigration authorities.

“You have to be careful when going out because if you are not careful and the police get hold of you, it will be a different issue,” she said.

The woman, who said she was leaving the camp to purchase medication for her sick brother, claimed access to healthcare has become a major challenge for some of the stranded migrants.

“My brother is sick, and I am going to buy drugs. We can’t access healthcare,” she stated.

She further alleged that a Ghanaian woman was denied medical attention because her passport had expired, although she questioned the basis for the decision.

“One lady was sick and was denied healthcare because they claimed her passport had expired. I don’t know why they are saying that because the passport is for 10 years,” she said.

She also recounted another incident involving a Ghanaian woman who she claimed narrowly escaped arrest while attempting to register for a customer card at a shopping centre.

“Another lady went to Shoprite to register for their card and was nearly arrested, so she had to run,” she alleged.

The woman explained that while some Ghanaians at the camp have secured asylum documents, others are still waiting for their immigration status to be regularised.

She said she applied for legal documentation about three years ago through her employer but has since not received the required permit.

“My boss did it for me and others. I was issued a receipt, and till now, I haven’t received the legal document,” she said.

She also raised concerns about the number of children at the camp, describing their situation as worrying.

“There are a lot of children here. The youngest is five months old. A two-year-old fell sick and almost lost his life,” she said.

The stranded Ghanaians are among those expected to be evacuated to Ghana following heightened concerns over their safety amid renewed xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.

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Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa confirmed that the incident occurred while the Vice President was undertaking an official visit to the district.

“Mrs. Mutale Nalumango had an accident at takeoff in Nakonde, Muchinga Province, during her official visit to the region. The Vice President and all passengers and crew are safe and well,” Mr. Kangwa said in a statement.

As a precautionary measure, Ms. Nalumango was taken to Nakonde Hospital for a routine medical examination following the incident. Officials said she was later discharged after being assessed by medical personnel.

Mr. Kangwa said the Vice President was in good health and that all passengers and crew members aboard the aircraft were safe.

“As a standard precaution, she was taken to Nakonde Hospital for a routine check and has since been discharged,” he said.

Government authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of the incident. Mr. Kangwa said relevant agencies would conduct investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the occurrence.

“The relevant authorities will establish the circumstances of the incident in a normal way,” he stated.

Despite the incident, the Vice President is expected to continue with her scheduled engagements in the region, according to the government.

Mr. Kangwa also commended the flight crew and emergency responders for their professionalism during the incident and thanked residents of Nakonde District for their swift assistance.

The development prompted a message from President Hakainde Hichilema, who said he had spoken with the Vice President following the incident.

“Fellow citizens, we have just spoken with Her Honour the Vice President and our Running Mate, Mrs. W.K. Mutale Nalumango, who was involved in a helicopter incident today,” the President said.

“We are grateful to God to report that she is in good spirits and unharmed. We thank God for His protection and for preserving her life.”

Authorities are expected to provide further details once investigations into the incident are completed.

In a travel advisory issued on July 7, the Ministry said the Government of Sierra Leone introduced the requirement for all travellers entering or leaving the country, effective June 18, 2026.

The directive applies to Ghanaian travellers, foreign nationals, returning residents, and all other visitors arriving in or departing from Sierra Leone.

According to the advisory, travellers must complete the Health Declaration Form via Sierra Leone’s Health Travel Portal within 72 hours before travel. They are also required to provide their correct and updated seat number before departure and retain the confirmation QR code or reference number generated after submission.

The Ministry warned that providing false, inaccurate, or misleading information could lead to delays, denial of entry or departure clearance, or additional health screening.

Travellers who feel unwell before, during, or after their trip have also been urged to immediately report to a Point of Entry Health Officer and seek medical attention.

The Ministry explained that information submitted through the portal will support disease surveillance, prevention, and other public health measures, while being handled confidentially in line with applicable data protection regulations.

It added that travellers may be subjected to health screening and other public health measures upon arrival in Sierra Leone and must cooperate with health officials.

Those who face challenges completing the online declaration can seek assistance from designated Point of Entry Health personnel at official entry and exit points.

The Ministry encouraged all travellers to complete the declaration before departure to avoid delays and ensure compliance with Sierra Leone’s public health regulations.

The findings are contained in the Service’s first-ever Non-Standard Units Survey (NSUS), released on Tuesday, July 7, 2026.

Presenting the report, Government Statistician Dr Alhassan Iddrisu said the survey provides Ghana’s first nationally representative data on the use of non-standard food measurement units, offering a stronger basis for producing official statistics.

According to the survey, the same measurement unit often represents different weights depending on the region, creating inconsistencies in food pricing, agricultural statistics and household consumption estimates.

The report also found that household food measurements vary considerably, even when using containers that appear to be standard, such as cups and margarine tins. At the farmgate level, differences in container sizes and filling methods further contribute to the inconsistencies.

However, the survey noted that container-based liquid commodities, including palm oil, showed greater consistency in measurements than solid food items.

To address the challenge, the Ghana Statistical Service has developed national conversion factors for major food commodities, allowing commonly used local measurement units to be converted into kilograms and litres.

The Service said the conversion factors are expected to improve the accuracy of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), agricultural production statistics and household consumption data, while enhancing evidence-based policymaking.

The GSS described the survey as a major step toward harmonising food measurement practices across the country and improving the reliability of Ghana’s official statistics.

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The football star, 31, was driving in the inner-city suburb of Hillbrow on Sunday when his car was shot at by an unknown gunman, according to local reports.

Lunga, who plays for both Zimbabwe’s national football team and top South African club Mamelodi Sundowns, escaped unharmed.

Crime is a major problem in South Africa, and the country has one of the highest murder rates in the world.

Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said they were investigating a case of attempted murder but that no arrests had been made.

She did not provide further details, but South African publication The Citizen said that Lunga was on his way to church with his younger brother when they came under attack.

The duo were driving through Hillbrow when the suspect opened fire on their car, apparently mistaking him for an undercover police officer.

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Diplomatic sources in Accra and Pretoria told the Daily Graphic that the decision followed a recent wave of anti-foreigner violence in parts of South Africa, which has led to the repatriation of about 1,000 Ghanaians, with hundreds more reportedly awaiting evacuation.

The situation was further heightened after reports that a Ghanaian national was killed on June 30 during demonstrations by xenophobic groups against African migrants.

A South African diplomatic source said Ghana’s decision reflects concerns over the safety and dignity of its citizens living in South Africa, adding that proceeding with a high-level visit under the current circumstances would have been inappropriate.

A Ghanaian source also confirmed the government’s position, stressing that protecting Ghanaians abroad remains a key priority. The source added that authorities were mindful of the security implications surrounding President Ramaphosa’s visit amid the tense environment, according to the Daily Graphic.

The source said Ghana has communicated its concerns to South Africa and called for decisive action to address the attacks and ensure the safety of Ghanaian nationals before any future visit can be considered.

Despite the development, the source emphasised that relations between Ghana and South Africa remain cordial, with both countries committed to maintaining their longstanding diplomatic ties.