 "Earthquake of magnitude 5.9 jolts Assam, tremors felt in Bhutan and north Bengal")
 "5 US F-35 jets land in Puerto Rico amid tensions with Venezuela")
Africa News Live: Today’s updates reflect the diverse currents shaping the continent from the arrest of a top Rwandan export official on financial crime suspicions to new calls for judicial reform in Nigeria and a surprise presidential bid in Côte d’Ivoire. As Liberia celebrates women’s empowerment through kickball and South Africa debates the value of national dialogue, we’re tracking stories that reveal the political, social and cultural forces defining Africa’s present and future. Stay with us for continuing coverage:
Africa News Live Updates: Rwanda, Nigeria, Liberia and Côte d’Ivoire mark a day of arrests, reforms and rising voices
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• July 19, 2025, 04:03:48 IST
Africa News Live Updates: Stay with us for continuous coverage of unfolding stories from every corner of Africa. From breakthrough economic initiatives and political milestones to environmental shifts and social movements, we bring you the latest updates shaping the continent. Explore how local dynamics intersect with global trends as African nations navigate change, resilience and opportunity on their own terms
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Africa News Live: Today’s updates reflect the diverse currents shaping the continent from the arrest of a top Rwandan export official on financial crime suspicions to new calls for judicial reform in Nigeria and a surprise presidential bid in Côte d’Ivoire. As Liberia celebrates women's empowerment through kickball and South Africa debates the value of national dialogue, we’re tracking stories that reveal the political, social and cultural forces defining Africa’s present and future. Stay with us for continuing coverage:
Tracking the African pulse
Africa News Live Updates: Stay with us for continuous coverage of unfolding stories from every corner of Africa. From breakthrough economic initiatives and political milestones to environmental shifts and social movements, we bring you the latest updates shaping the continent. Explore how local dynamics intersect with global trends as African nations navigate change, resilience and opportunity on their own terms
July 19, 2025, 04:03:48 (IST)
Host nation Morocco defeats Mali 3-1 to reach WAFCON semi-finals
Host nation Morocco has advanced to the semi-finals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) following a 3-1 victory over Mali, according to a report in BBC. Moroccan player Ibtissam Jraidi scored two goals for the Atlas Lionesses in the quarter-final match. The win sets up a semi-final meeting for Morocco against the winner of the upcoming match between Algeria and Ghana.
July 19, 2025, 03:31:42 (IST)
Shooting at Wagner-controlled gold mine in Central African Republic kills 11
At least 11 people were killed in a shooting on Wednesday night at the Wagner Group-controlled Ndassima gold mine in the Central African Republic, AP said in a report. According to residents and aid workers, the incident occurred approximately 450 kilometres east of the capital, Bangui. The Ndassima mine is one of the country’s most significant gold deposits, and local residents are reportedly forbidden from accessing the site.
July 19, 2025, 03:06:08 (IST)
Most Batswana support media's watchdog role but many perceive government interference, survey finds
A newly-released Afrobarometer survey in Botswana indicates broad public support for the media’s role as a government watchdog, the Botswana Gazette says in a report. The survey found that while a large majority of citizens—74%—feel “somewhat free” or “completely free” to express their opinions, a significant minority of 24% do not feel the same freedom. A key finding highlights that four in ten Batswana (40%) believe the nation’s media is not free from government interference, pointing to a perceived challenge to press independence despite high levels of personal freedom of expression.
July 19, 2025, 03:02:08 (IST)
Botswana enlists Malaysian firm for economic transformation strategy
The government of Botswana has engaged a Malaysian performance transformation firm to overhaul its national economic strategy, the Botswana Gazette said in a report. This decision stems from a stated need to move past “decades of ‘abstract plans and promises’” that failed to yield results. The contracted firm is noted by the government as having a strong track record in strategy implementation across several of the world’s fastest-growing economies. The move signifies a strategic pivot by Botswana towards leveraging external expertise to drive economic diversification and performance.
July 19, 2025, 02:12:09 (IST)
Gulf states increase investment in Africa as China adjusts financial strategy
Gulf states, notably Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, are significantly increasing their financial commitments to Africa, driven by strategic goals to diversify their economies away from oil and secure vital resources like food and minerals, Mail & Guardian says in a report. This influx of capital coincides with a strategic shift in China’s engagement with the continent; Beijing is moving away from the large-scale, state-backed infrastructure loans that characterised its early Belt and Road Initiative towards more commercially viable and sustainable projects. This evolution in Chinese policy is partly a response to growing concerns over debt sustainability in African nations. The dual developments are fostering a more competitive and diversified investment environment, providing African countries with greater leverage and a wider array of financing partners beyond traditional Chinese or Western sources.
July 19, 2025, 02:11:42 (IST)
G20 youth forum addresses challenges of global cooperation and national sovereignty
The G20 youth engagement group (Y20) is addressing the complex relationship between multilateral cooperation and national sovereignty, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. The youth forum is providing policy recommendations to G20 leaders, reflecting a growing demand for more inclusive global governance. These discussions are particularly relevant for Africa, following the African Union’s recent admission as a permanent member of the G20, a move that significantly enhances the continent’s collective representation. The event underscores the push from younger generations and the Global South for international frameworks that can tackle global challenges while respecting national policy space.
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July 19, 2025, 02:08:31 (IST)
New US consul general arrives in Lagos to oversee commercial and economic relations
A new U.S. Consul General, identified as Swart, has arrived in Lagos to assume leadership of the American diplomatic mission in Nigeria’s commercial capital, as per a report in Premium Times. The appointment is significant for bilateral economic relations, as the Lagos consulate is a key interface for U.S. businesses operating in Nigeria and for Nigerian firms seeking American partnerships. Swart takes over from JoEllen Gorg, who led the consulate in an interim capacity for the past seven months. The arrival of a new permanent appointee signals continuity in U.S. policy and engagement with Africa’s largest economy, particularly concerning trade, investment, and support for the private sector.
July 19, 2025, 02:01:38 (IST)
Tinubu appoints nine new heads to key government agencies in Nigeria
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has appointed nine new individuals to head key government agencies, including Mohammed Babangida, the son of former military Head of State Ibrahim Babangida, Premium Times says in a report. The presidency framed these appointments as part of an ongoing effort to reposition strategic government institutions for improved performance. This development occurs as the administration continues to shape its team to address Nigeria’s significant economic and security challenges, with the leadership of these agencies being critical to implementing government policy and influencing the country’s business and investment climate.
July 19, 2025, 02:00:12 (IST)
Hanan Buhari thanks Nigerians for forgiving her father, former president Muhammadu Buhari
Hanan Buhari, the daughter of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, has publicly thanked Nigerians for forgiving her father for any wrongs committed during his presidency, according to a report in Premium Times. Her statement refers to a public appeal for forgiveness that her father made in April 2023, during his final Sallah celebration as president. Muhammadu Buhari’s eight-year presidential term concluded in May 2023.
July 19, 2025, 01:58:30 (IST)
Nigerian university suspends students following fee hike protest
Students at a Nigerian university who protested against a fee increase have been suspended for four semesters, according to a report in Premium Times. The students stated they were verbally informed of the suspension verdict on Monday. However, they have not yet been issued a formal letter of suspension from the university administration.
July 19, 2025, 01:56:45 (IST)
Study finds antiretroviral drugs are major pollutants in South African rivers
A new study has found that antiretroviral (ARV) drugs are prominent pollutants in South Africa’s water bodies, with lopinavir and efavirenz identified as the top contaminants, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. The pollution is largely associated with wastewater treatment plants that are unable to effectively filter out the pharmaceuticals. This environmental issue is presented as an unforeseen consequence of South Africa’s extensive and life-saving HIV/AIDS treatment program, through which a high volume of consumed drugs enters the water system via human waste. The findings highlight the environmental impact of pharmaceutical residues and the challenges facing the nation’s water infrastructure.
July 19, 2025, 01:55:12 (IST)
Gauteng facing a shortfall of 200 schools, says education MEC
Gauteng requires an additional 200 schools to cope with significant demand driven by inward migration and population growth, Mail & Guardian says in a report. The statement came from the province’s Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Education, Thembeni Chiloane, who highlighted the severe pressure on existing infrastructure. The shortfall is a direct consequence of urbanization outpacing the provision of public services in South Africa’s most populous province, leading to persistent overcrowding in classrooms and straining educational resources.
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July 19, 2025, 01:52:22 (IST)
Nigerian university registrar assassinated, police launch investigation
Ezekiel Adeniyan, the registrar of the University of Medical Sciences in Ondo State, Nigeria, was assassinated in the early hours of Thursday, Premium Times said in a report. The Nigerian police force has confirmed the incident and has commenced an investigation. This event occurs against a backdrop of wider security challenges in the country, with such high-profile acts of violence often raising concerns among investors regarding political stability and the rule of law, which are critical factors for the business and investment climate.
July 19, 2025, 01:47:55 (IST)
N29bn fraud case against former Nigerian governor Nyako faces delay
The N29 billion fraud trial of former Adamawa State Governor, Murtala Nyako, has been adjourned for the second time in a week, Premium Times said in a report. A lawyer for the prosecution, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), informed the court that ongoing settlement discussions were stalled by the death of an individual named Buhari. The case involves allegations of money laundering and abuse of office against the former governor.
July 19, 2025, 01:40:22 (IST)
South Africa appoints head of expert panel to advise on new nuclear energy programme
Professor Bismark Tyobeka has been appointed chairperson of the Ministerial Expert Panel on Nuclear, a key development in South Africa’s energy strategy, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. The advisory panel is tasked with providing recommendations to the government on the pace, scale, and procurement approach for developing new nuclear energy capacity. This appointment comes as South Africa grapples with a severe, long-standing electricity crisis and signals a renewed official interest in nuclear power as a long-term solution. The panel’s advice will be critical in shaping the country’s updated Integrated Resource Plan and has substantial economic implications, potentially unlocking a multi-billion dollar programme that will attract keen interest from international nuclear vendors and financiers while also raising fiscal concerns.
July 19, 2025, 01:35:40 (IST)
Ekiti state seeks N175bn federal grant for economic diversification
The government of Ekiti State in Nigeria has formally requested a N175 billion grant from the federal Natural Resources Development Fund (NRDF) to support its economic diversification strategy, Premium Times says in a report. Governor Biodun Oyebanji stated the funding is intended to transition the state towards a capital-intensive and knowledge-driven economy. The core focus of the proposed investment is on developing the solid minerals, agriculture, and tourism sectors to enhance their global competitiveness.
July 19, 2025, 01:31:19 (IST)
Nigerian health warning highlights economic risks of disease outbreaks
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has issued a public health alert for cholera, yellow fever, and dengue fever following meteorological forecasts predicting conditions favourable for their spread, Premium Times said in a report. From a financial perspective, this warning underscores the persistent economic vulnerabilities Nigeria faces from public health crises. Development economists note that such recurrent outbreaks incur substantial costs through increased healthcare expenditure and lost productivity, potentially deterring tourism and foreign investment. The situation also presents a significant political risk for the government, as its ability to manage potential outbreaks is a key indicator of stability for investors. For businesses operating in Nigeria, the alert serves as a reminder of the operational risks and the critical need for robust public health infrastructure to support economic resilience.
July 19, 2025, 00:47:26 (IST)
Rwandan president discusses mining partnership with Rio Tinto
Rwandan President Paul Kagame held separate meetings on 18 July with delegations from the global mining firm Rio Tinto and the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) to discuss their respective partnerships with the country, as per a report in The New Times. The discussion with Rio Tinto centred on providing an update on the company’s joint mining venture with the Rwandan government. This development is significant for Rwanda’s strategy to attract major foreign investment into its mining sector, which is a source of critical minerals, and aligns with Rio Tinto’s global search for new mineral resources.
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July 19, 2025, 00:44:50 (IST)
President Kagame appoints Alice Uwase as new CEO of Rwanda's mining board
President Paul Kagame appointed Alice Uwase as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB) on Friday, as per a report in The New Times. The appointment places Uwase at the head of a critical government body responsible for regulating and promoting the country’s mining, petroleum, and gas sectors. This move is consistent with Rwanda’s economic strategy, which prioritises the formalisation and professionalisation of key industries like mining to boost national revenue and attract foreign investment. The new leadership at the RMB is expected to continue reforms aimed at improving environmental compliance, combating illegal mining, and enhancing the sector’s contribution to the national economy.
July 19, 2025, 00:30:08 (IST)
Law society of Kenya seeks to question blogger after mysterious disappearance
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) intends to question a blogger named Ndiang’ui to understand the circumstances surrounding his case, as per a report in Standard Media Kenya. Ndiang’ui reportedly went missing in June under what have been described as mysterious circumstances. He later resurfaced at the Milimani High Court in Nairobi, prompting the country’s professional body for lawyers to intervene in a case that has raised concerns about the safety of online commentators and freedom of expression.
July 19, 2025, 00:15:08 (IST)
US administration to destroy $9.7m in contraceptives intended for Africa
The Trump administration has decided to destroy $9.7 million worth of contraceptives rather than send them to women in need abroad, according to a report in The Guardian. A U.S. State Department spokesperson confirmed the decision, which will cost taxpayers an additional $167,000 for the destruction process. According to senior congressional aides, the contraceptives, primarily long-acting types like IUDs and implants, were housed in a warehouse in Belgium and were almost certainly intended for distribution in Africa. The aides were told the destruction was scheduled to occur by the end of July.
July 18, 2025, 23:37:21 (IST)
New Zealand beats Zimbabwe by eight wickets in T20 match
New Zealand secured an eight-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in a Twenty20 cricket match in Harare on Friday, as per a report in AP. After Zimbabwe was made to bat first, New Zealand chased down the target with 6.1 overs remaining. Devon Conway, who was dropped early in his innings and survived several other close calls, ultimately hit the winning runs to lead his team to a comfortable win.
July 18, 2025, 23:33:49 (IST)
African Union appoints Burundian president as special envoy to Sahel region
The African Union has appointed Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye as its new special envoy for the Sahel region, according to a report in Africanews. The appointment is a diplomatic effort to engage with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which was formed by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger following military coups and their subsequent withdrawal from the regional bloc ECOWAS. According to a diplomatic source, the envoy’s role will be to ‘speak on equal terms with the leaders of the Sahel States Alliance,’ signaling a move towards direct dialogue with the military-led governments.
July 18, 2025, 23:20:08 (IST)
Africa sees refinery boom and investment growth, AfDB report finds
A new report from the African Development Bank (AfDB) highlights a significant refinery boom that is reshaping West Africa’s energy landscape, the Mail & Guardian says in a report. This surge in investment and capacity is reportedly boosting local production of refined petroleum products, which in turn is set to reduce the region’s long-standing dependence on foreign imports. The development is presented as a key indicator of broader economic growth, structural reforms, and increasing investment across the African continent, signalling a move towards greater energy security and industrial self-sufficiency.
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July 18, 2025, 23:18:38 (IST)
Lawsuit and death threats target Kenyan whistleblower who exposed $2bn airport deal
A Kenyan whistleblower, identified as Nelson Amenya, is reportedly facing a lawsuit and death threats after exposing a controversial $2 billion airport deal, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. Following the public disclosure and subsequent public outcry, Kenyan President William Ruto took action to scrap the deal. The repercussions against Amenya highlight the significant personal risks involved for individuals who expose alleged high-level corruption in the country.
July 18, 2025, 23:17:37 (IST)
USAid funding freeze threatens successful eSwatini snakebite program
A highly successful snakebite treatment program in eSwatini, which had eliminated deaths from snakebites, faces potential closure following a funding freeze by the United States Agency for International Development (USAid), as per a report in Mail & Guardian. The funding suspension threatens the country’s main treatment centre, which was instrumental in achieving this public health success. The freeze is a temporary suspension, not a permanent cut, and is likely linked to broader US foreign policy that conditions aid on factors like democratic governance and human rights. This context is relevant given eSwatini’s political system as one of the world’s last absolute monarchies, a frequent point of concern for Western donors. The withdrawal of funds poses a direct and severe risk to public health, particularly in rural communities.
July 18, 2025, 23:15:12 (IST)
Conservation fund Ifaw faces UK lawsuit over deadly elephant translocation in Malawi
The International Fund for Animal Welfare (Ifaw) is being sued in the United Kingdom for alleged negligence following an elephant relocation project in Malawi, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. The lawsuit claims the translocation led to severe consequences for local communities, including human deaths and injuries, the destruction of crops, and the displacement of people. This legal action is part of a broader trend of increased scrutiny on large conservation organizations and their impact on human rights and local livelihoods in Africa.
July 18, 2025, 23:13:41 (IST)
Security failures at Addis Ababa airport highlighted by drug trafficking incident
A case involving a Kenyan citizen facing execution in Vietnam has exposed significant security weaknesses related to drug trafficking at Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. The incident highlights vulnerabilities at one of Africa’s busiest aviation hubs, which has reportedly become a significant transit point for illicit drugs. The security failure raises diplomatic concerns for Kenya and Ethiopia and puts a spotlight on the challenges of combating transnational organized crime across the continent. Experts suggest the lapses could stem from a combination of inadequate screening technology, insufficient personnel training, and potential corruption, impacting the airport’s reputation as a key regional hub.
July 18, 2025, 22:53:06 (IST)
Tanzania faces legal challenge over human rights, raising investor concerns
A lawsuit filed by Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan activist Agatha Atuhaire against the Tanzanian government could have significant economic and reputational repercussions, according to a report in Standard Media. The case, lodged at the East African Court of Justice, pertains to alleged human rights violations in May and includes a compensation claim of Sh129 million from each activist. This legal challenge places Tanzania under a spotlight, potentially affecting investor confidence and foreign aid considerations. An adverse ruling from the regional court could not only result in a substantial financial payout but also damage diplomatic relations and increase the perceived political risk for businesses operating in or considering investment in the country.
July 18, 2025, 22:46:39 (IST)
IFC lists Rwf24 billion corporate bond on Rwanda Stock Exchange to fund private sector
The International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private sector arm of the World Bank, listed a Rwf24 billion (approximately US$20 million) corporate bond on the Rwanda Stock Exchange (RSE) on 18 July, according to a report in The New Times. The proceeds are designated for financing private sector projects within Rwanda, aligning with the country’s long-term strategy to develop its capital markets and establish itself as a regional financial hub. This issuance is viewed by market analysts as a significant vote of confidence in Rwanda’s economic stability and investment climate, potentially enhancing market depth and attracting further foreign investment. The move is also expected to provide local businesses with greater access to capital and could set a benchmark for future corporate bond issuances on the RSE.
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July 18, 2025, 22:21:07 (IST)
Dengue fatality in South Africa highlights economic risks of public health crises
Another death from dengue fever has been reported in South Africa, a development that highlights significant public health and economic vulnerabilities for the region, the Daily Sun says in a report. The fatality occurs amidst a rising number of dengue cases across Southern Africa, including in key neighbouring economies like Mozambique and Angola, a trend linked to changing climate patterns. Beyond the immediate human cost, such public health events pose considerable economic risks. Analysts note that disease outbreaks strain national healthcare budgets, reduce labour productivity due to illness, and can negatively impact crucial sectors such as tourism and foreign investment. The incident is expected to intensify scrutiny of public health expenditure, reinforcing arguments that investment in disease surveillance and climate adaptation infrastructure is an economic necessity for sustainable development.
July 18, 2025, 22:21:06 (IST)
France ends 65-year military presence in Senegal with final base handover
France is scheduled to formally hand over its final military bases in Senegal, ending a 65-year-long military presence in the country, according to a report in France 24. The move is the latest in a series of French military withdrawals from its former West African colonies, following departures from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. This trend is occurring amid increasing pressure and public sentiment across the region calling for greater sovereignty and an end to France’s military footprint on the continent.
July 18, 2025, 22:19:25 (IST)
Police in Nigeria's Sokoto state arrest suspected bandit, recover gun
The police Anti-Kidnapping Unit in Nigeria’s Sokoto state has arrested a suspected bandit identified as Buba Magaji, Premium Times said in a report. Authorities also recovered a gun from the suspect during the operation. The arrest is part of ongoing security measures in the region.
July 18, 2025, 22:16:34 (IST)
Men deported from US held in indefinite solitary confinement in Eswatini
Five immigrants deported from the United States to the African nation of Eswatini are being held in solitary confinement across various prisons for an indeterminate time, AP said in a report. Thabile Mdluli, a spokesperson for the Eswatini government, confirmed the men are being detained in isolation from other inmates but declined to identify the correctional facilities, citing security concerns. The men’s current situation and future legal status remain unclear.
July 18, 2025, 22:15:08 (IST)
Rwanda advocates for advanced technology to curb 30% timber production wastage
The Rwanda Forestry Authority (RFA) is advocating for the adoption of advanced wood processing technology to mitigate significant wastage in the country’s timber sector, The New Times says in a report. The initiative aims to tackle an observed 30 percent production loss, which is attributed to current inefficiencies in the timber industry. By encouraging the industry to upgrade its technological capabilities, the RFA seeks to enhance resource efficiency and reduce the substantial material losses that occur during production.
July 18, 2025, 22:13:57 (IST)
Police in Nigeria's Abia state dismantle criminal hideout, arrest four suspects
Police in Nigeria’s Abia state have dismantled a criminal hideout and arrested four suspects, according to a report in Premium Times. During the operation, authorities recovered several items, including a locally made pistol, a knife, two mobile phones, and a laptop.
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July 18, 2025, 22:10:43 (IST)
Kigali to refund Rwf120 million in overpaid construction permit fees
Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, will refund Rwf120 million to landowners who were overcharged for building permits under a previous, outdated system, The New Times said in a report. The announcement was made by the Mayor of the City of Kigali, Samuel Dusengiyu. The initiative is intended to correct past administrative shortcomings and is part of broader reforms to improve the ease of doing business, with the stated goal of boosting investor confidence in the construction and real estate sectors.
July 18, 2025, 22:07:38 (IST)
Semi-finalists for the 2025 Cameroon Cup are confirmed
The semi-finalists for the 2025 Coupe du Cameroun have now been confirmed, marking the progression of the tournament to its final four stage, Cameroon Tribune said in a report. This competition is Cameroon’s primary national football cup, featuring clubs from across the country.
July 18, 2025, 22:05:04 (IST)
Namibia and Zimbabwe to compete for Rugby World Cup spot amid funding challenges
Namibia and Zimbabwe will contest the final of the Rugby Africa Cup in Kampala on Saturday, with the winner securing a qualification spot for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, Reuters said in a report. The match highlights the broader dilemma facing Rugby Africa, which aims to foster growth and ambition for the sport across the continent but is constrained by scarce resources and tight budgets. Historically, Namibia has been a regular participant, appearing at every World Cup since 1999, whereas Zimbabwe competed in the first two tournaments in 1987 and 1991.
July 18, 2025, 21:58:50 (IST)
Marathon world record holder Ruth Chepngetich provisionally suspended for doping
Ruth Chepngetich, the Kenyan athlete who holds the world record in the women’s marathon, has been provisionally suspended for a doping offence, as per a report in BBC. The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) issued the suspension after a violation involving a banned substance was registered against her. This development adds to the ongoing scrutiny of doping within Kenyan athletics, a persistent issue that has drawn attention from global anti-doping authorities.
End of Liveblog