Cameroon’s government has issued a decree allowing authorities to expel those who insult state institutions or the president.

On Monday, Nigerian lawmakers launched an inquiry into allegations of polluted fuel imports, aiming to address conflicts involving Aliko Dangote’s oil refinery and regulatory authorities. Chairman Ikenga Ugochinyere disclosed that the legislative committee is investigating claims of unregulated licensing and the absence of international standard laboratories linked to the contaminated products in Abuja. Aliko Dangote, President/CEO of Dangote Industries Limited, defended his position, expressing regret over the challenges faced but stressing the necessity to persevere through ongoing projects. The committee urged the parties in Nigeria’s petroleum sector to reduce tensions that have been heightened in recent weeks by allegations from the regulator that Dangote was trying to monopolize the market and that his refinery’s products are of poor quality. Dangote claimed that the mafia in the oil industry is more dangerous than the mafia involved in drugs.  He emphasized that while you may have some knowledge of your opponents in the drug trade, the oil mafia operates in secrecy both internally and externally.  He expressed his certainty that they may even have insiders aiding them in their operations.  Dangote also lamented the fact that Nigeria has been struggling with fuel queues since 1972, calling it a national shame. The largest refinery in Africa, located in Lagos, has a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day.  Despite being hailed as a game-changer by officials, the $19 billion facility has faced a slow start since opening over a year ago.  Due to challenges in sourcing crude oil locally, the refinery has had to rely on imports from other countries, highlighting Nigeria’s struggles with oil theft and corruption. The refinery’s senior executive has also alleged that international oil companies in Nigeria are scheming to cause the refinery to fail.  Devakumar Edwin, a vice-president of Dangote Industries, claimed that the companies are either intentionally demanding an exorbitant premium or stating that crude is not available. Farouk Ahmed, the chief executive of the regulatory agency, expressed concerns about Dangote’s request to suspend or stop the importation of petroleum products, citing potential market monopoly.  However, Dangote refuted these claims and welcomed lawmakers to inspect the plant where its products were tested.  He also clarified that he did not receive any incentives from the Nigerian government for the refinery and announced the cancellation of plans to invest in the steel industry.  The origin of the dispute between Nigerian authorities and Dangote, whose companies dominate various markets, remains unclear.  This conflict emerged after President Bola Tinubu succeeded Muhammadu Buhari, a close ally of Dangote, following last year’s presidential election.  Analysts warn that such disputes could deter foreign investments and destabilize Nigeria’s economy.  Nigerian economist Bismarck Rewane criticized allegations of low-quality products from the refinery, deeming them baseless without evidence or consumer complaints, suggesting deeper underlying issues.

New home secretary reveals Rishi Sunak’s controversial Rwanda plan cost 700 million pounds in wasted taxpayer money.

Rwanda’s National Electoral Commission announced that Paul Kagame won his fourth term as president with over 99% of the vote, while his opponents.

Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to supporting Palestine Cuba and Western Sahara emphasizing his nation’s stance against oppression and subjugation.

Mali is once again the scene of a devastating attack, as 26 people were killed while working in their fields.

The MSF report details the devastating impact of Sudan’s ongoing war on civilians, including widespread violence, attacks on healthcare, and a humanitarian crisis.

A new peace initiative is underway as the DRC government and M23 rebels meet in Uganda for negotiations.

A truck carrying highly toxic sodium cyanide overturned in Kenya, leading to looting and widespread public fear as authorities scramble to recover the missing chemical.

Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has fired two senior ministers in a mini-cabinet reshuffle ahead of the 2025 elections.

Nigeria probes fuel shortages, dirty fuel imports, and a clash between Dangote Refinery and regulators.

Combining his passions for art and his homeland, Nigerian doctor Fola David is vying for a Guinness World Record.

The 6th African Union Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Ghana focused on accelerating economic integration and improving funding mechanisms.

Ugandan security forces have sealed off the headquarters of the main opposition party, the National Unity Platform, ahead of planned anti-government protests.

Volunteers in Algeria rescued hundreds of flamingo chicks from a drying salt lake caused by years of drought and high temperatures.

Mali’s celebrated “king of kora,” Toumani Diabate, passed away on Friday at the age of 58 following a brief illness, according to an announcement from his family on social media. Diabate, a renowned master of the kora—a traditional West African stringed instrument—died at a private clinic in Bamako, the capital of Mali. Born in 1965 into a family of griots, Diabate was deeply rooted in Mali’s rich cultural heritage, serving as a guardian of the nation’s oral histories and traditions. Throughout his career, Diabate was celebrated for his extraordinary skill and innovative approach to the kora. His ability to seamlessly blend traditional Malian music with contemporary influences earned him acclaim both in Africa and internationally.  The news of his passing has led to a wave of tributes from across the West African music scene. Fellow musicians and admirers have praised Diabate for his profound impact on the music world. His contributions were recognized for bridging the gap between ancestral traditions and modern music, making a lasting imprint on Mali’s cultural landscape.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reported allocating $14 million over one year to support humanitarian efforts in the region and combat terrorism. According to a statement by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Advisor to Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Tinubu attended the “African Union 6th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting” held in Accra, Ghana’s capital. President Tinubu, who is also the ECOWAS Chair, mentioned during the meeting that ECOWAS has allocated $14 million to support humanitarian efforts and counterterrorism in the region. He also noted that ECOWAS is exploring other financing options for its $2.6 billion Contingency Force. Tinubu highlighted that ECOWAS faces various challenges such as terrorism, food insecurity, and climate change, and mentioned that the organization will continue dialogue with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, who have decided to leave ECOWAS, and will convene an “Extraordinary Special Summit” on the future of the Community. Tinubu did not announce the summit date but indicated that leaders would discuss ongoing negotiations with Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso regarding their decision to leave ECOWAS. Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, who decided to leave ECOWAS and formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), held their first summit in Niamey, Niger’s capital, on July 6th. During the summit, they signed a joint declaration to establish the “Confederation of Sahel States,” comprising the three countries, and elected Malian President Assimi Goita as the AES Chair for a one-year term.

Morocco’s capital, Rabat, is one of 124 World Heritage sites to be assessed for the state of its conservation at the UNESCO committee’s annual meeting in India. With architecture dating back to 1184, the city is one of the most ancient in the world, and its numerous monuments depict the many different periods of Moroccan history. Mosques dating back nearly a thousand years blend into the new urban town built under the French Protectorate in the early 1900s. “Morocco, as one of the most ancient countries in the world, by virtue of its strategic location, has been home to a group of civilisations from the prehistoric period to the present day,” said Mohammed El Krombi, curator of historical monuments at the Culture Ministry in Rabat. He said having World Heritage status is both an honour and a responsibility. “It requires us to take care of these historical monuments because UNESCO, together with the Ministry of Culture and local partners, is trying to support this heritage and make it known,” he said. “When people visit Morocco, they tend to go to just Fez or Marrakesh. The royal vision now is that Rabat is not only the administrative capital but also the cultural capital, the city of lights. These are the things that will help attract tourists.” Tourism plays a pivotal role in enhancing Rabat’s historical heritage, and restoration projects use traditional methods and materials to preserve the original design. With its quiet alleyways, high blue and white walls and ornate doorways, the Kasbah of the Udayas if a firm favourite with visitors. The real birthplace of the city, its origins date back to the 12th century. “The Kasbah of the Udayas is the city of Mahdia. It is the first nucleus of the Almohad city of Rabat al-Fath. It is the historical city that extends on both banks and not only on the left bank,” said Rabat historian and archaeologist, Mohamed Es-semmar. Chakir Cheraibi, a Moroccan tourist from Canada, said the area has always been a major attration. “Even for us, it makes us discover Rabat, the children too. We teach them about the history of Morocco through these places and these monuments,” he said. What started out as a humble military outpost nearly 1,000 years ago to defend the area, has been expanded over time into a citadel. Today, this mostly residential neighbourhood, is home to several important historical monuments, including the Andalusian Gardens, the Bab Udaya gate, and the Old Mosque. UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee holds its 46th session from 21 to 31 July in New Delhi.

The African Union convened in Ghana on Sunday to address issues related to African integration and to establish a unified stance before engaging with the G20 and UN. Mauritania’s President and current African Union Chair, Mohamed Cheikh Ghazouani, urged for the acceleration of the African integration process. He stressed the importance of expediting economic integration to support the continent and fulfill the aspirations of African citizens. Discussions during the meeting centered on financing mechanisms for African Union projects, particularly the funding of the organization itself, which heavily relies on contributions from non-African partners. African Union Commission Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat, highlighted the necessity for member countries to present a united front in upcoming engagements with international partners. He emphasized the importance of speaking with one voice at major global forums, including the G20, where the African Union now holds membership. With ongoing regional instability in West Africa, ECOWAS nations Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso risk losing their memberships due to military coups that ousted democratically elected leaders in these countries. These nations have been under threat from terrorist organizations affiliated with al-Qaeda and the Islamic State for years.

Several African cities are making significant strides in improving urban living standards

Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, faces criticism for his authoritarian rule but is also praised by supporters for maintaining stability in Uganda

Ugandan charge d’affaires denies accusations, asserts Kampala’s commitment to regional stability cooperation

Initially, General al-Burhan’s forces boycotted the talks, leading to only the RSF delegation attending the start of the Geneva meetings

Rwanda has announced an ambitious plan to become an upper-middle-income country by 2035