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From collapsing crop prices in Rwanda to a tragic road accident in Nigeria, the continent faces a complex web of challenges this morning. Macadamia farmers in Rwanda are reeling from a steep market downturn, while a family’s desperate escape from Libya’s failing healthcare system spotlights a deepening humanitarian crisis. In Nigeria, media freedom and safety face new legal battles, even as efforts to empower youth through media literacy gain ground ahead of elections. We’ll be following developments from across the continent throughout the day, bringing you the latest updates, reports and reactions as they come in.
Africa News Live Updates: Rwandan macadamia farmers face crisis as prices plunge
Africa News Live Updates: Rwandan macadamia farmers face crisis as prices plunge
FP Alpha
• July 8, 2025, 06:00:05 IST
Africa News Live Updates: Welcome to our live blog covering the latest from across Africa. Follow real-time updates on political transitions, security and peacekeeping operations, regional integration efforts, economic innovation, climate impacts, migration trends, and grassroots activism. Track the continent’s evolving stance on global affairs and its efforts to tackle internal and external challenges across sectors
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 "Africa News Live Updates: Rwandan macadamia farmers face crisis as prices plunge")
Following Africa as it happens. Image courtesy Google Gemini
From collapsing crop prices in Rwanda to a tragic road accident in Nigeria, the continent faces a complex web of challenges this morning. Macadamia farmers in Rwanda are reeling from a steep market downturn, while a family’s desperate escape from Libya’s failing healthcare system spotlights a deepening humanitarian crisis. In Nigeria, media freedom and safety face new legal battles, even as efforts to empower youth through media literacy gain ground ahead of elections. We'll be following developments from across the continent throughout the day, bringing you the latest updates, reports and reactions as they come in.
Tracking today’s turning points across Africa
Africa News Live Updates: Welcome to our live blog covering the latest from across Africa. Follow real-time updates on political transitions, security and peacekeeping operations, regional integration efforts, economic innovation, climate impacts, migration trends, and grassroots activism. Track the continent’s evolving stance on global affairs and its efforts to tackle internal and external challenges across sectors
July 8, 2025, 06:00:05 (IST)
DA renews push for provincial control of policing in South Africa's Western Cape
South Africa’s main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), has renewed its push for the Western Cape to control its own policing services, a move that challenges the authority of the national government, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. The party justifies the bid by pointing to persistently high crime rates in the province and the alleged failures of the South African Police Service (SAPS). This effort builds on previous legislative actions, such as the 2023 Western Cape Provincial Powers Bill, aimed at increasing provincial autonomy. The initiative faces a significant constitutional obstacle, as South Africa’s Constitution currently mandates a single, national police service, meaning the DA’s goal would likely require a constitutional amendment or a significant reinterpretation of existing laws.
July 8, 2025, 05:47:16 (IST)
Tinubu calls for reevaluation of global governance structure at BRICS summit
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has called for a fundamental reevaluation of the global governance structure, which includes institutions like the UN, IMF, and World Bank, according to a report in Premium Times. Speaking at the BRICS summit on July 7, Tinubu advocated for reforms to create a more inclusive and multipolar world order, a position that aligns with long-standing goals of many African nations. The statement highlights Nigeria’s push for a greater voice for the continent in international affairs and increased cooperation among emerging economies.
July 8, 2025, 05:46:11 (IST)
Africa's instant payment volume exceeds $1 trillion while 400 million remain excluded, report finds
A new report indicates that the total value of instant payment transactions in Africa has crossed the $1 trillion threshold, highlighting significant growth in the continent’s digital economy, Premium Times says in a report. Despite this milestone, the report also finds that approximately 400 million people are still excluded from these digital payment ecosystems. This excluded population often includes individuals in rural areas, those without formal identification, and people with limited access to digital infrastructure and literacy, posing a major challenge to achieving inclusive economic development across the continent.
July 8, 2025, 05:45:05 (IST)
Fifteen girls discharged from hospital in Nigeria after diarrhoea outbreak
An official in Nigeria has confirmed the discharge of 15 girls from a hospital where they were being treated following a recent diarrhoea outbreak, according to a report in Premium Times. The incident underscores ongoing public health concerns in the country related to preventable diseases, often linked to challenges with water quality and sanitation infrastructure.
July 8, 2025, 05:34:23 (IST)
ANC's Mbalula confident minister Mchunu will address allegations
African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has publicly stated his confidence that Senzo Mchunu, South Africa’s Minister of Water and Sanitation, will address a recent allegation made against him by an individual identified as Mkhwanazi, Mail & Guardian says in a report. The statement from the senior ANC official addresses the matter directly, placing the expectation on Minister Mchunu to provide a response to the claim. The specific details of the allegation were not outlined.
July 8, 2025, 05:32:12 (IST)
Former governor Rashidi Ladoja set to become the next Olubadan of Ibadan
Former Oyo State governor Rashidi Ladoja is poised to become the next Olubadan of Ibadan, ascending to the traditional throne as the most senior High Chief in the established rotational succession system, Premium Times says in a report. His imminent installation follows a vacancy created by the death of the immediate past Olubadan, Oba Lekan Balogun. Ladoja’s position was solidified by his decision during a controversial 2017 chieftaincy review to reject an elevation to a lesser kingship, which ensured he remained in the direct line of succession for the paramount stool.
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July 8, 2025, 05:32:12 (IST)
South Africa's financial watchdog revokes Banxso’s licence
South Africa’s primary financial regulator, the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), has revoked the operating license of financial services provider Banxso, Mail & Guardian said in a report. The action by the FSCA, which is responsible for market conduct regulation, prevents Banxso from legally operating within the country’s financial sector.
July 8, 2025, 05:31:11 (IST)
Multiple injuries reported after commercial bus crash on Lagos bridge
Multiple people were injured after a commercial minibus, known as a Danfo, crashed and somersaulted on the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos, Nigeria, according to a report in Premium Times. The accident occurred on the critical transport artery that connects Lagos Island to the mainland. The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding public transport safety, vehicle roadworthiness, and the condition of major infrastructure within Nigeria’s largest city.
July 8, 2025, 05:31:11 (IST)
Chemical explosion kills three at factory in Nigeria's Ogun state
A chemical explosion at a factory in Nigeria’s Ogun State has killed three people, including a 19-year-old, according to a report in Premium Times. The fatal incident occurred on Monday, prompting calls for improved enforcement of the country’s occupational safety regulations. Industrial safety standards in Nigeria are primarily enforced by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment under the Factories Act.
July 8, 2025, 05:31:10 (IST)
Nigeria's attorney general approves N400m fraud charges against former senator Andy Uba
Nigeria’s Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) has approved N400 million fraud charges against Andy Uba, a former senator from Anambra State, according to a report in Premium Times. Following the AGF’s approval, a Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled a date for the arraignment of Uba and a co-defendant. The charges are reportedly linked to the diversion of government funds.
July 8, 2025, 05:30:05 (IST)
Saratou Traore goal gives Mali victory over Tanzania at Women's Africa Cup of Nations
Mali defeated Tanzania 1-0 in a Group C encounter at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. The decisive goal was scored by Saratou Traore during injury time in the first half of the match.
July 8, 2025, 05:15:06 (IST)
South Africa's judiciary in turmoil over misconduct allegations and internal conflict
South Africa’s judiciary is facing a crisis involving a plagiarism accusation against senior ANC minister Lindiwe Sisulu and an internal judicial conflict over an alleged assault cover-up involving Judge President John Hlophe, according to a report in Daily Maverick. The latest developments include an allegation that Sisulu’s recent criticism of the judiciary was plagiarized from a speech by a former UK attorney general. Concurrently, a judge in the Western Cape has publicly refused to sit with a fellow judge, an action reportedly intended to expose an alleged cover-up of an assault involving Hlophe, who has faced misconduct allegations for over a decade. These events are exacerbating concerns about the integrity and stability of the country’s judicial system.
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July 8, 2025, 05:00:07 (IST)
African nations push for universal school meals to be on G20 summit agenda
Ahead of the next G20 summit, African nations and the African Union are leading a significant push to place universal school meals on the international agenda. The initiative is presented not just as a response to food insecurity but as a strategic, high-return investment in human capital that aligns with the AU’s Agenda 2063 and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals for Zero Hunger and Quality Education. This effort, driven by African leadership, aims to secure policy coordination and support from G20 members to scale up national programs, which are seen as critical for improving child nutrition, boosting educational outcomes, and stimulating local economies through food procurement.
July 8, 2025, 03:47:21 (IST)
Vision City phase 2 development in Rwanda to begin in September 2025
Construction work for Vision City Phase II in Rwanda will commence in September 2025, according to a report in The New Times. Officials have stated that the new development is set to be three times larger than the project’s first phase.
July 8, 2025, 03:46:16 (IST)
Botswana's labour minister intervenes in worsening stalemate with doctors
Botswana’s Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Major General Pius Mokgware (rtd), has personally intervened in a worsening stalemate between doctors and the government in an effort to avert a crisis in the nation’s healthcare sector, according to a report in the Botswana Gazette. The minister’s action comes after weeks of heightened tensions and an impasse in negotiations, which threatened to severely impact Botswana’s already strained public health system. The intervention aims to find a resolution and prevent widespread disruption to medical services.
July 8, 2025, 03:46:16 (IST)
Botswana identifies cyber risks and money laundering as top national security threats
The Bank of Botswana has listed cyber risks among the nation’s top five national security risks, identifying them alongside money laundering, a potential economic downturn, and electricity supply disruptions as key threats to the country, according to a report in Botswana Gazette. The report also highlights that Botswana’s banking sector is the primary source of suspicious transaction reports (STRs), filing 94.5 percent of all such reports amid a noted growth in fraudulent transactions.
July 8, 2025, 03:45:06 (IST)
Botswana Telecom reports 30% profit increase driven by data services
Botswana Telecommunications Corporation Limited (BTC) announced a 30% rise in its profit before tax to P259 million for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, driven by a 4% revenue increase from data and cloud services, as per a report in the Botswana Gazette. The partially privatized company, which is listed on the Botswana Stock Exchange, attributed its strong financial performance to significant growth in both its fixed and mobile data offerings. The results indicate increasing adoption of digital services within Botswana’s economy.
July 8, 2025, 03:31:13 (IST)
Nigerian court remands two crypto operators over alleged investment fraud
Two operators of the crypto platform CBEX have been remanded in custody in Nigeria after being arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on three counts of alleged investment fraud, according to a report in Premium Times. A judge issued the remand order, which means the defendants will be held in custody pending their trial. The prosecution is part of a broader effort by Nigerian authorities to address financial crimes and bring regulatory oversight to the digital asset sector.
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July 8, 2025, 03:30:06 (IST)
Nigeria's central bank clarifies $50 charge for non-resident bank verification numbers
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a clarification regarding a $50 charge associated with the Bank Verification Number (BVN) system, Premium Times says in a report. This response follows online reports that incorrectly suggested the bank had introduced new or hidden fees for all BVN registrations. The CBN specified that the charge is applicable only to non-residents, such as Nigerian citizens living abroad or foreign nationals, who are obtaining or updating their BVN from outside of Nigeria.
July 8, 2025, 03:30:06 (IST)
Loyalists of dethroned Emir Aminu Ado Bayero evicted from Kano mini palace
Authorities in Nigeria’s Kano State have evicted the dethroned emir, Aminu Ado Bayero, and his supporters from the Nasarawa mini palace, according to a report in Premium Times. The action enforces a new law passed by the Kano State House of Assembly that repealed the 2019 legislation which had split the Kano Emirate into five. The new law facilitated the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the sole Emir of Kano by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. Bayero has been challenging his removal in court while occupying the mini palace, leading to a tense standoff and conflicting judicial orders over the legitimate leadership of the historic emirate.
July 8, 2025, 03:15:09 (IST)
IMF advises Nigeria to raise revenue and reform budget for economic growth
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has stated that Nigeria needs to raise its revenue and implement significant budget reforms to foster sustainable economic growth, Premium Times says in a report. The recommendation emphasizes the need for improved fiscal discipline, including diversifying the economy away from its dependence on oil, enhancing the efficiency of non-oil tax collection, and broadening the overall tax base. According to the IMF’s guidance, budgetary fixes should involve reducing inefficient government expenditure and reallocating public funds toward productive sectors to achieve macroeconomic stability and attract foreign investment. This advice comes in the context of major economic reforms undertaken by President Bola Tinubu’s administration in 2023, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of currency exchange rates.
July 8, 2025, 03:15:09 (IST)
Kaduna begins free bus service for workers, students, and security personnel
The government of Kaduna State in Nigeria has initiated a six-month free bus service using Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles for workers, students, and security personnel to alleviate high transportation costs, according to a report in Premium Times. This program is intended as a palliative measure to mitigate the economic impact of increased transport fares, which have risen significantly since the federal government’s removal of fuel subsidies in May 2023. The initiative, set to run for an initial period of six months, also supports the national push for adopting CNG as a more affordable and cleaner fuel alternative.
July 8, 2025, 02:46:15 (IST)
Botswana government reviews police escort policy for cash-in-transit vehicles
The government of Botswana is engaging with stakeholders to review the financial burden of providing police escorts for cash-in-transit (CIT) vehicles operated by private security firms, according to a report in the Botswana Gazette. This security measure was first introduced in 2021 as a direct response to what was then an alarming increase in CIT heists. The current review is prompted by concerns within the government regarding the financial strain these escort duties place on the resources of the Botswana Police Service.
July 8, 2025, 02:45:08 (IST)
Over 255,000 candidates in Rwanda to begin national exams this week
Over 255,000 candidates in Rwanda have registered for the 2024/25 Ordinary and Advanced level secondary national examinations, which are scheduled to begin on Wednesday, July 9, according to a report in The New Times. These high-stakes exams are a critical requirement for students seeking to progress to higher education or obtain qualifications for employment.
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July 8, 2025, 01:45:09 (IST)
NDDC to focus on completing abandoned legacy projects in Nigeria's Niger Delta
Nigeria’s Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) will shift its focus to completing thousands of abandoned “legacy projects” across the oil-rich region, Premium Times said in a report. Samuel Ogbuku, the Managing Director of the commission, stated that this new strategy aims to address the long-standing issue of uncompleted infrastructure projects that have historically plagued the Niger Delta. Ogbuku indicated that the NDDC will seek to form partnerships to ensure these projects, which include roads, schools, and hospitals, are finalized. This initiative follows a forensic audit that highlighted widespread mismanagement and is part of the new leadership’s agenda to address underdevelopment and public grievances in the region.
July 8, 2025, 01:15:04 (IST)
French parliament votes to return sacred 'talking drum' to Ivory Coast
The French parliament has officially voted to return a sacred ‘talking drum’ to its country of origin, Ivory Coast, according to a report in Africa News. The wooden instrument, a culturally significant artifact used for communication and ceremonies, had been held at the Quai Branly museum in Paris. This legislative approval was necessary due to French law, which deems items in national collections as inalienable unless a specific law is passed to authorize their transfer. The move is part of a broader French policy to restitute cultural heritage to former colonies, following similar returns to other African nations.
July 8, 2025, 01:15:04 (IST)
South Africa starts WAFCON title defence with a 2-0 victory over Ghana
South Africa has begun the defence of its Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title with a 2-0 win over Ghana, according to a report in BBC. The match, which marks the start of the tournament for the defending champions, was held in Morocco.
July 8, 2025, 01:01:16 (IST)
Imane Ayissi presents collection fusing African tradition and Parisian craft at fall couture show
Designer Imane Ayissi showcased his fall couture collection in Paris, presenting a fusion of African tradition and Parisian craft, according to a report in AP. The show, held on Monday, featured the flower as a central theme, explored in bold and distinct ways. Notable designs included a look where a model’s upper body was transformed into a sculpture of large vermillion flowers and another satin dress with a flower appliqué at the hip.
July 8, 2025, 01:01:16 (IST)
CAF increases funding for African federations with stricter transparency rules
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) will substantially increase its financial grants to national football federations across the continent, according to a report in Jeune Afrique. In a move aimed at improving governance and ethics, CAF has warned that it will be uncompromising regarding how these funds are used. This initiative, under the leadership of current CAF President Patrice Motsepe, is a direct response to a history of financial mismanagement and is designed to ensure the increased subsidies support football development directly, with strict oversight and accountability measures being put in place.
July 8, 2025, 01:00:05 (IST)
Nigeria Hockey Federation aims to surpass previous results at Africa Nations Cup
The Nigeria Hockey Federation is setting ambitious goals for the upcoming 2025 Africa Hockey Nations Cup, which will be held in Egypt, according to a report in Premium Times. A federation official, identified as Mr. Nkom, stated that the organization is looking ahead to the continental competition with the specific aim of surpassing its past performances and achievements. This declaration signals the federation’s intent for a stronger showing in the African hockey tournament.
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July 8, 2025, 00:45:05 (IST)
Benin develops its textile sector with a focus on local cotton processing
Benin is undertaking a significant shift in its economic strategy by focusing on the local transformation of its cotton into finished textile goods, according to a report in Jeune Afrique. This industrialization effort is centered at the Glo-Djigbé industrial platform and aims to move the country up the value chain from being a raw material exporter to a manufacturer of finished products. The West African nation has already begun exporting textile pieces to the United States, France, and Nigeria, and is now focused on increasing its order book by forging new partnerships with international brands to ensure the long-term success of its growing textile sector.
July 8, 2025, 00:45:05 (IST)
Armed group storms Kenyan hospital theatre, disrupts surgery
Chaos erupted at the Kitengela Sub-County Hospital in Kenya after a group of armed individuals stormed the facility, according to a report in Standard Media. The group gained access to an active operating theatre where a Caesarean section was being performed, causing a disruption to the critical surgical procedure. The report indicates the intruders also attempted to dictate the care of patients within the hospital.
July 7, 2025, 23:45:06 (IST)
Rwandan government explores options to recover Rwf2.9 billion laptop debt
The government of Rwanda is considering new strategies to recover approximately Rwf2.9 billion (about USD 2.3 million) owed by Africa Investment Smart Distribution (ASID), The New Times says in a report. ASID, a private distributor, incurred the debt in relation to a contract for supplying Positivo-brand laptops for the nation’s ‘Smart Education’ initiatives. The government’s move to explore recovery options, which may include legal action, is part of a broader push for accountability and the protection of public funds.
July 7, 2025, 23:00:06 (IST)
WFP airdrops food in South Sudan, warns of looming famine
The World Food Programme (WFP) has begun airdropping food aid in South Sudan and is warning of famine conditions due to a combination of factors, Africanews reports. The primary driver of the crisis is the country’s protracted civil conflict, which has caused mass displacement, economic collapse, and severe disruption to agriculture. The situation is further worsened by a severe economic crisis, hyperinflation, and extreme weather events such as major flooding. Aid organizations like the WFP report facing significant challenges in delivering assistance, including security threats and difficulties accessing vulnerable populations.
July 7, 2025, 23:00:06 (IST)
Esther Okoronkwo receives player of the match award at WAFCON
Nigerian substitute Esther Okoronkwo received the Player of the Match award for her performance in a Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) game, according to a report in Premium Times. Okoronkwo was recognized for making a significant, game-changing impact after coming on as a substitute, an achievement described as a rare but deserved accolade for a non-starting player.
July 7, 2025, 22:30:07 (IST)
Nigeria restates commitment to nuclear test ban, prioritizes development
Nigeria has restated its commitment to the global ban on nuclear tests, emphasizing that the continent’s primary focus is on addressing existential challenges such as poverty and the effects of climate change, according to a report in Premium Times. The country’s position is that pursuing nuclear weapons capability is not a priority for Africa. This stance aligns with Nigeria’s obligations under the African Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone Treaty, also known as the Pelindaba Treaty, and reinforces its long-standing foreign policy of promoting development and stability over military escalation.
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July 7, 2025, 22:15:05 (IST)
Ngarama hospital upgrade in Rwanda to cost Rwf14.8 billion with 2026 completion target
The full upgrade of Ngarama Hospital, located in the Gatsibo District of Rwanda, is expected to be completed by 2026 at a cost of Rwf14.8 billion, according to a report in The New Times. The project, reported by the Ministry in Charge of Emergency Management, involves a complete overhaul of the medical facility.
July 7, 2025, 21:30:18 (IST)
Raila Odinga proposes national conclave and referendum to address Kenyan grievances
Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga has proposed the formation of an ‘Intergenerational National Conclave’ to address national grievances, including the need for police reforms and high youth unemployment, according to a report in Standard Media. Odinga suggested that the resolutions from this proposed national dialogue should subsequently be put to the Kenyan people through a referendum. The proposal aims to find a solution to the current political impasse between the opposition and the government, which has been marked by protests over the cost of living.
July 7, 2025, 20:46:14 (IST)
Kenyan speaker Moses Wetangula calls for national unity
Kenya’s National Assembly Speaker, Moses Wetangula, has made a public appeal for national unity, urging Kenyans to reject divisive politics regardless of their personal background, tribe, or regional affiliation, Standard Media says in a report. The call emphasizes the importance of cohesion and moving beyond political fragmentation for the country’s stability and progress.
July 7, 2025, 20:46:14 (IST)
Nigerian footballer says federation has not done enough for women's team
Nigerian footballer Desire Oparanozie has stated that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has “not done enough” to support the women’s national team and maintain its competitive edge in Africa, according to a report in BBC. Oparanozie’s critique highlights concerns that a lack of adequate investment and support from the NFF could jeopardize the future success of the Super Falcons. The team is historically the most dominant in Africa, having won the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations a record 11 times, but has faced recurring complaints related to funding, facilities, and player allowances.
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