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Africa News Live Updates: Two South African engineers released from Equatorial Guinea after two years in detention

FP Alpha July 5, 2025, 05:45:14 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: Two South African engineers released from Equatorial Guinea after two years in detention
Following Africa as it happens. Image courtesy Google Gemini

Welcome to Africa News Live Updates for Friday, July 4. We’re tracking major developments across the continent, from political shifts and human rights milestones to public health insights and judicial rulings. In Equatorial Guinea, two South African engineers have been released after over two years in detention, ending a prolonged diplomatic and legal ordeal. Meanwhile in Nigeria, the head of the country’s human rights commission has been elected to lead a key West African network, pledging reforms across the region’s institutions. In other Nigerian news, a court handed down convictions in both cybercrime and illegal mineral possession cases, while the electoral commission received a dozen new applications for political parties—hinting at a more crowded political landscape ahead. Elsewhere, the FCT minister has authorised funds to address a teachers’ strike in Abuja, and new wildlife footage from Uganda offers fresh clues on how deadly viruses can move from bats to other species a significant find in the context of global pandemic preparedness. Stay connected to Africa throughout the day:

Latest updates from across Africa, all in one place

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 5, 2025, 05:45:14 (IST)

Gulf states increase investment in Africa as China alters its financial strategy

Gulf states are channeling billions of dollars in investments into Africa, while China is simultaneously revamping its financial model on the continent, Mail & Guardian said in a report. This development reflects a shift in China’s strategy, moving away from large-scale, state-backed loans that have previously raised debt sustainability concerns. Concurrently, investments from Gulf nations are increasingly targeting key sectors such as logistics, ports, agriculture, and technology as they seek to diversify their economies and expand their influence.
July 5, 2025, 05:30:18 (IST)

New community play park opens in Helenvale, South Africa

A new community play park officially opened in the Helenvale Extension 12 area, a township in Gqeberha, South Africa, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. The facility is an intervention of the ‘Safety and Peace Through Urban Upgrading’ programme, which aims to improve public spaces and provide safe recreational areas for youth. The project is part of broader urban development and renewal initiatives in historically disadvantaged communities.
July 5, 2025, 04:30:22 (IST)

US Supreme Court allows deportation of eight men to South Sudan

The US Supreme Court has permitted the Trump administration to deport eight men to war-torn South Sudan, overturning a lower court ruling that had blocked their removal, according to a report in The Guardian. The men, who have been held at an American military base in Djibouti, are mostly from countries other than South Sudan, including Vietnam, South Korea, Mexico, Laos, Cuba, and Myanmar. Only one of the eight men is originally from South Sudan, a country to which most of them reportedly have no ties.
July 5, 2025, 04:30:22 (IST)

Elon Musk's $113 million South Africa investment stalled by empowerment law

A planned $113 million investment by Elon Musk in South Africa, believed to be for the Starlink satellite internet service, has been halted due to regulatory hurdles related to the country’s Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) law, Africa News says in a report. The situation has drawn criticism from the opposition party Build One South Africa, whose deputy leader Nobuntu Hlazo-Webster accused the government of potentially allowing a ‘powerful foreign billionaire’ to sidestep laws that local businesses are required to follow. The BBBEE Act is a policy designed to redress economic inequalities from the apartheid era, and the current impasse highlights the ongoing tension between enforcing transformation policies and attracting foreign investment.
July 5, 2025, 04:15:19 (IST)

South Africa and Austria agree to strengthen ties

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen for discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations, according to a report in Africa News. The meeting signals a move towards enhanced cooperation as the two leaders engaged on their countries’ mutual relationship.
July 5, 2025, 04:00:18 (IST)

Nigeria sets deadline for foreigners to regularise expired visas

The Nigerian government has set a deadline for all foreign nationals residing in the country with expired visas to regularize their immigration status, according to a report in Premium Times. Officials clarified that the directive is aimed at enforcing existing immigration laws and is not a requirement for affected individuals to apply for Nigerian citizenship. The policy requires those with expired permits to bring their residency status into legal compliance.
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July 5, 2025, 03:45:14 (IST)

Kagame says Africa must prepare to take its place in a new world order

Rwandan President Paul Kagame has stated that Africa must prepare to take its place in a new world order, whether the continent is ready or not, The New Times said in a report. Speaking on Friday, Kagame emphasized the need for the continent to actively position itself to navigate and have a role in the shifting global power dynamics. His call for readiness comes amid a broader push by the African Union for greater representation in global institutions and increased geopolitical engagement in Africa by world powers.
July 5, 2025, 02:15:18 (IST)

African nations push for universal school meals ahead of G20 summit

A coordinated effort by African governments, likely led by the African Union, is advocating for the implementation of universal school meal programs across the continent, as per a report in Daily Maverick. This initiative, aimed at providing meals to all school children regardless of socioeconomic status, is being presented as a key agenda item before the next G20 summit. The goal is to secure political and financial commitments from the world’s major economies to support the large-scale social welfare program, which aligns with global development goals for food security and education.
July 5, 2025, 02:15:18 (IST)

Zimbabwean editor Faith Zaba released on bail after arrest over satire

Faith Zaba, a Zimbabwean editor, was released on bail after being arrested for publishing satirical material, Daily Maverick says in a report. The incident is being framed by media rights organizations as an example of the deteriorating state of press freedom in the country. The arrest and subsequent legal proceedings highlight the challenges and risks, including harassment and intimidation, faced by independent media and journalists in Zimbabwe.
July 5, 2025, 01:45:18 (IST)

South African IDT CEO under scrutiny for alleged R22 million asset splurge

The CEO of South Africa’s Independent Development Trust (IDT) is facing scrutiny over an alleged R22 million asset splurge that reportedly includes cash properties and new SUVs, according to a report in Daily Maverick. In response to the allegations, Democratic Alliance (DA) Member of Parliament Kevin Macpherson has called for lifestyle audits to be conducted on the IDT’s leadership. The report also notes a connection to an ongoing probe into delayed oxygen plants, linking the issue to wider concerns about corruption in public procurement.
July 5, 2025, 01:45:18 (IST)

Uganda deploys up to 1,000 troops to DR Congo without authorization, UN experts say

Uganda has deployed up to 1,000 troops into the Democratic Republic of Congo without the authorization of the Kinshasa government, Africanews says in a report. According to UN experts, the soldiers have been sent to the city of Bunia, as well as the Mahagi and Djugu territories within Ituri province. Ugandan authorities state the deployment is aimed at addressing the threat posed by CODECO, an armed militia operating in the region.
July 5, 2025, 00:15:14 (IST)

Study finds widespread confusion over eco-labels among South African consumers

Despite a desire among South Africans to shop more sustainably, most are unable to identify or trust environmental eco-labels on products, according to a report in The Conversation. A recent study of 108 consumers found very low recognition for legitimate South African labels, such as the Afrisco Certified Organic label (22% recognition), and widespread confusion, with many participants unable to distinguish between real and fictional labels. The findings suggest that a lack of national visibility, inconsistent use by businesses, and insufficient public education are major barriers. The report contrasts this with successful, highly visible, government-backed eco-labeling systems in regions like the European Union, Germany, and Japan, recommending that South African businesses and government collaborate on clearer labeling and public awareness campaigns to build consumer trust.
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July 5, 2025, 00:15:14 (IST)

Family planning research in Africa underrepresents men and local scholars, a new study reveals

A review of 152 scientific publications on family planning from 23 African countries, published between 1996 and 2023, found that research often fails to genuinely include men, as per a report in The Conversation. The analysis revealed that only about one in five studies claiming to examine male involvement actually collected data directly from men, often focusing narrowly on male “approval” rather than shared responsibility. The research is also geographically concentrated, with most studies originating from Nigeria, Ethiopia, Uganda, and Kenya, potentially creating a knowledge base that doesn’t reflect the continent’s diversity. Furthermore, the study highlighted an equity issue in authorship, with a majority of the most influential authors being affiliated with non-African institutions. The authors argue for more inclusive, representative, and African-led research to create effective health policies, citing successful programs in Senegal, Malawi, and Kenya where intentionally engaging men improved family planning outcomes.
July 5, 2025, 00:00:16 (IST)

Nigerian farmers cite economic pressures for continued high tomato prices

Farmers in Nigeria have indicated that high tomato prices are persisting despite earlier anticipation that they would fall after the Sallah holiday, according to a report in Premium Times. The farmers noted their inability to control the market prices, which are reportedly influenced by several persistent economic factors. These underlying issues include significantly increased transportation costs following the 2023 fuel subsidy removal, higher expenses for imported agricultural inputs like fertilizer due to the Naira’s devaluation, and ongoing insecurity in key farming regions which disrupts supply chains and reduces overall yield.
July 4, 2025, 23:48:32 (IST)

Siasia faces N250m legal threat over bribery claim against Mikel's former agent

Former Nigerian national football coach Sunday Siasia is facing a N250 million legal threat for defamation from the former agent of footballer Mikel Obi, according to a report in Premium Times. The legal action is a response to remarks Siasia made during a widely circulated interview on the Elegbete TV platform, where he allegedly accused the agent of bribery.
July 4, 2025, 23:47:26 (IST)

Nigerian troops uncover 56 IEDs on bridge in Borno State

The Nigerian Army has foiled a suspected terror plot after discovering 56 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted on a bridge in Borno State, as per a report in Premium Times. According to a statement from the army, the explosives are believed to have been planted by insurgents from either Boko Haram or the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). The operation successfully prevented a potential large-scale attack in the conflict-affected state.
July 4, 2025, 23:47:26 (IST)

Nigerian doctor on bail for child theft accused in new child trafficking case

A doctor in Nigeria has been accused of stealing another child just months after being granted bail in March for a similar offense, according to a report in Premium Times. In the latest incident, the doctor was re-arrested after allegedly purchasing a boy for N700,000 from the child’s sellers. Subsequently, the doctor is accused of reselling the same child for a profit, at a price of N2.3 million.
July 4, 2025, 23:46:19 (IST)

Court in Lagos jails eight Chinese nationals for cyberterrorism and internet fraud

A court in Lagos, Nigeria, has sentenced a group of eight Chinese nationals to jail for cyberterrorism and internet fraud, according to a report in Premium Times. The judgment was delivered after the eight defendants entered guilty pleas to the charges brought against them. The case represents another instance of foreign nationals being prosecuted for cybercrime-related offenses in the country.
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July 4, 2025, 23:45:14 (IST)

Zambia declares end to cholera outbreak after weeks without new infections

Zambia has officially declared an end to its most recent cholera outbreak following a period of five weeks with no new infections, according to a report in Africanews. Health Minister Elijah Muchima confirmed the declaration, noting the final wave of the outbreak resulted in 496 cases and 9 deaths. The last recorded case was in May in the Kabwe District of Central Province.
July 4, 2025, 23:15:14 (IST)

Ghanaian footballer Thomas Partey charged with rape in the UK

Ghanaian footballer and former Arsenal player Thomas Partey has been charged in the UK with multiple serious offenses, BBC says in a report. The charges consist of five counts of rape related to allegations from two women, and one count of sexual assault concerning a third woman. The legal proceedings are being handled under the jurisdiction of the UK legal system.
July 4, 2025, 22:17:28 (IST)

Calls grow to address educational marginalisation of boys in Africa

There are growing calls in Africa to address the educational marginalization of boys, an issue linked to broader societal challenges like youth unemployment and social instability, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. This emerging concern is being discussed after decades of international and national policies successfully focused on improving girls’ access to education. The current debate suggests that boys may now be facing distinct challenges, such as higher dropout rates or a lack of targeted support, prompting a re-evaluation of gender-focused educational policies to ensure the needs of all students are met.
July 4, 2025, 22:16:23 (IST)

South African universities defend hiring of foreign staff amid local job pressures

South African universities are publicly defending their recruitment of foreign staff amid significant pressure from high domestic unemployment and rising anti-immigrant sentiment, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. The institutions argue that hiring international academics is essential to fill critical skills gaps, maintain global competitiveness, and bolster research capacity. This defense comes as the South African government considers stricter immigration and labor laws to prioritize local job seekers, creating a tense debate between national employment priorities and the higher education sector’s need for specialized global talent.
July 4, 2025, 22:15:14 (IST)

Kagame says Rwanda cannot live on the whims of others

Rwandan President Paul Kagame has reiterated his country’s commitment to self-reliance and national sovereignty, stating that Rwanda cannot depend on the shifting interests of external powers, according to a report in The New Times. He added that the nation is focused on pursuing its own development path and making its own decisions without external pressure as part of its stated goal to reduce foreign dependency and assert its independent role in global affairs.
July 4, 2025, 22:15:14 (IST)

South Africa's MK party to discuss conduct of Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla and Nhlamulo Ndhlela

Officials within South Africa’s uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party are set to discuss the alleged “errant behaviour” of Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla and the party’s national spokesperson, Nhlamulo Ndhlela, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. Zuma-Sambudla is the daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma, who leads the MK party. The internal review follows the party’s significant performance in the 2024 general elections, where it emerged as the country’s third-largest political force, and focuses on the conduct of two of its high-profile members.
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July 4, 2025, 22:00:18 (IST)

MBDA supports cidb contractor development programme in South Africa

The Nelson Mandela Bay Development Agency (MBDA) is backing a structured contractor development programme in South Africa that has been approved by the Construction Industry Development Board (cidb), according to a report in the Mail & Guardian. The new initiative is designed to support contractors by assessing their prior learning and experience, followed by targeted top-up training to address any skill gaps. This approach aims to formalize existing skills and enhance the capabilities of contractors within the construction sector.
July 4, 2025, 20:46:18 (IST)

Several Kenyan MPs endorse Tim Wanyonyi for 2027 Bungoma gubernatorial race

Several Members of Parliament from Kenya’s Bungoma County have endorsed Westlands MP Timothy Wanyonyi for the 2027 gubernatorial race, according to a report in Standard Media. Wanyonyi, who is the current MP for a Nairobi constituency and a member of the ODM party, is the brother of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula. This early endorsement positions Wanyonyi as a direct challenger to the incumbent Bungoma Governor, Kenneth Lusaka, signaling a significant political development within the region ahead of the next general election.
July 4, 2025, 20:46:18 (IST)

Somali influencers in Germany used social media to incite violence in Somalia

Somali influencers residing in Germany have been using social media platforms to spread radical content, incite violence, and raise funds for arms to be used in the war in Somalia, according to a report in Deutsche Welle. A joint investigation by DW and German public broadcaster ARD found that these individuals, described as ‘war influencers,’ were actively glorifying the conflict from within Germany.
July 4, 2025, 20:45:13 (IST)

Namibia halts state funerals until 2026 amid criticism of high costs

The government of Namibia has halted all state funerals until April 2026 in response to public criticism regarding their significant expense, according to a report in BBC. This policy, aimed at curbing state spending, includes a provision that allows the president to make an exception and authorize a state funeral if deemed necessary.
July 4, 2025, 20:45:13 (IST)

Brazil pushes for economic focus at BRICS summit in Rio

Brazil is aiming to prioritize economic development over geopolitical tensions at the annual BRICS summit currently being held in Rio, as per a report in Foreign Policy. The host nation’s focus on trade, investment, and financial cooperation comes as the recently expanded bloc, which now includes new African members Egypt and Ethiopia alongside long-standing member South Africa, navigates diverse interests and ongoing global conflicts. The summit’s agenda is considered significant for African members seeking alternative avenues for investment and development financing.
July 4, 2025, 20:17:25 (IST)

Man remanded in The Gambia for alleged rape of 4-year-old girl

A man in The Gambia has been ordered by a court to be held in custody in a case involving the alleged rape of a four-year-old girl, according to a report in The Point. The legal action, known as being ‘remanded’, means the suspect will be detained while the investigation proceeds or pending a trial. This procedural step does not constitute a conviction or a finding of guilt in the case.
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July 4, 2025, 20:17:25 (IST)

Durban July horseracing event expected to generate R700m for local economy

The upcoming Durban July horseracing event is projected to provide a R700 million boost to the local economy in Durban, South Africa, according to a report in Mail & Guardian. This figure is an estimate of the total economic injection from spending by attendees and associated activities within sectors such as hospitality, retail, and transport. The event is viewed as a significant driver for the regional economy, contributing to tourism and the creation of temporary employment opportunities.
July 4, 2025, 20:16:19 (IST)

Agikuyu elders endorse Kamba leader's 2027 presidential bid in Kenya

The Agikuyu Council of Elders has formally endorsed National Liberal Party (NLP) Leader Augustus Kyalo Muli, giving him their backing to seek support within the populous Mt. Kenya region for his 2027 presidential campaign, Standard Media says in a report. This early endorsement positions Muli, a leader from the Kamba community, as a contender in the upcoming election cycle and signals a potential political realignment between two of Kenya’s significant ethnic communities ahead of the 2027 general election.
July 4, 2025, 20:15:15 (IST)

Rwanda reports electricity access has risen to 83.2% since 1994

Rwanda’s national electricity access has increased from 1% in 1994 to 83.2% today, a milestone announced during the country’s 31st Liberation Day commemorations, according to a report in The New Times. The statistic highlights the significant infrastructure development over the three decades since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, which left the country’s infrastructure almost completely destroyed. The achievement is being noted as part of the ‘Kwibohora 31’ events, which mark the anniversary of the country’s liberation.
July 4, 2025, 20:15:15 (IST)

Dutch embassy hosts South Africa's Kaizer Chiefs football club ahead of training camp

The Embassy of the Netherlands in South Africa held an event for the Kaizer Chiefs football club as the team prepares for an upcoming pre-season training camp in the Netherlands, according to a report in Mail & Guardian.
July 4, 2025, 19:01:20 (IST)

Nigeria's Chief Justice appoints former industrial court president to head National Judicial Institute

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) has appointed the former president of the National Industrial Court, Mr. Adejumo, to serve as the new administrator of the National Judicial Institute (NJI), according to a report in Premium Times. The CJN’s office stated that the appointment was made based on Mr. Adejumo’s experience and deep understanding of judicial administration. The NJI is the body responsible for the continuing education and training of judicial officers and their staff in Nigeria.
July 4, 2025, 19:01:20 (IST)

Rwanda marks 31st Liberation Day with 83.2% electricity access

On the 31st anniversary of its Liberation Day, known as Kwibohora 31, Rwanda has reported that national electricity access has reached 83.2%, according to a report in The New Times. This marks a significant increase from the 1% access rate recorded in 1994, in the aftermath of the Genocide against the Tutsi. The growth in electricity access is a key metric highlighted during the commemoration, reflecting three decades of infrastructure development.
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July 4, 2025, 19:00:14 (IST)

Former Nigerian minister Rotimi Amaechi announces bid for 2027 presidency

Former Nigerian Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi has announced his ambition to contest the 2027 presidential election, as per a report in Premium Times. The declaration comes early in the current political cycle and reignites debates within Nigeria about the principle of power rotation between the country’s different geopolitical zones. Amaechi, who previously served as the Governor of Rivers State, also commented on the possibility of forming a coalition and the importance of adhering to constitutional term limits.
July 4, 2025, 18:16:31 (IST)

Discrepancy of 1.2 billion dalasi found in Gambian government accounts

A discrepancy of 1.2 billion Gambian Dalasi (D1.2B) has been discovered in the financial statements of The Gambia’s government accounts, according to a report in The Point. The amount, equivalent to approximately USD 20-25 million, represents a significant sum within the national budget and has prompted calls for a thorough investigation. While a discrepancy can stem from accounting errors, it is considered a major red flag for potential financial mismanagement or malfeasance. The finding places increased scrutiny on the administration of President Adama Barrow, which came to power on a platform of good governance and reform following the previous era under Yahya Jammeh.
July 4, 2025, 18:15:25 (IST)

Gambia's LGCI probes suspected land fraud at Banjul City Council

Gambia’s Land Governance Commission of Inquiry (LGCI) is investigating suspected land fraud at the Banjul City Council (BCC), The Point says in a report. The probe focuses on alleged malpractices in land administration within the capital city. This investigation is part of a broader anti-corruption drive by the Gambian government and addresses ongoing public concerns regarding land allocation and management.
July 4, 2025, 18:15:25 (IST)

Sona Jobarteh appointed as Gambia's roaming ambassador for tourism

World-renowned kora player and vocalist Sona Jobarteh has been appointed as a Roaming Ambassador for the Gambia Tourism Board, according to a report in The Point. In this promotional and goodwill capacity, Jobarteh will leverage her international platform to promote The Gambia as a tourist destination. The appointment is part of the Gambian government’s broader strategy under its National Development Plan to boost the tourism sector, which is a critical component of the nation’s economy, and to utilize cultural diplomacy to enhance the country’s international image.

Welcome to Africa News Live Updates for Friday, July 4. We’re tracking major developments across the continent, from political shifts and human rights milestones to public health insights and judicial rulings.

In Equatorial Guinea, two South African engineers have been released after over two years in detention, ending a prolonged diplomatic and legal ordeal. Meanwhile in Nigeria, the head of the country’s human rights commission has been elected to lead a key West African network, pledging reforms across the region’s institutions. In other Nigerian news, a court handed down convictions in both cybercrime and illegal mineral possession cases, while the electoral commission received a dozen new applications for political parties—hinting at a more crowded political landscape ahead.

Elsewhere, the FCT minister has authorised funds to address a teachers’ strike in Abuja, and new wildlife footage from Uganda offers fresh clues on how deadly viruses can move from bats to other species a significant find in the context of global pandemic preparedness. Stay connected to Africa throughout the day:

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