Former CAF president, Issa Hayatou, dies in Paris at 77
Issa Hayatou, a towering figure in African football, died in Paris on Thursday after a prolonged illness, just one day before his 78th birthday. Born in Cameroon in 1946, Hayatou made a lasting impact on the sport during his nearly three-decade tenure as president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), a role he held until March 2017. Under his leadership, African football saw remarkable growth and global recognition, including the expansion of the Africa Cup of Nations, increased African representation in the FIFA World Cup, and enhanced football infrastructure across the continent. Hayatou also served as interim president of FIFA from October 2015 to February 2016, stepping in after Sepp Blatter’s suspension. Despite the turmoil, he guided the organization with his renowned composure and authority. Tributes have flooded in worldwide, highlighting his pivotal role in elevating African football to a prominent position on the global stage.
Egyptian president calls for international efforts to end Gaza war
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi called Thursday for international efforts to push for an agreement that would end Israel’s war on the Gaza Strip. The move came during a phone call he received from his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, according to a statement from the Egyptian Presidency. The statement said that El-Sisi, during his conversation with Macron, highlighted Egypt’s “intensive communications” with all parties to halt the escalation in the region and avoid slipping into “a new cycle of uncalculated conflict,” which “threatens to spark a full-scale regional confrontation.” He stressed the importance of international efforts to press forward towards a cease-fire agreement in Gaza, as the continuation of the war in the region is the “main driver” of the current escalation. According to the statement, the two presidents agreed to intensify efforts and coordination in the coming period to ensure the security and stability of the region and to prevent the expansion of the conflict, which threatens the welfare of the region’s people. In a related context, El-Sisi held a phone call with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, in which he reviewed the latest Egyptian efforts to end the war in Gaza and the exchange of detainees, according to a second statement from the Egyptian Presidency. He emphasized the “priority of delivering humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, alleviating their suffering and advancing a political process based on the two-state solution.” El-Sisi also expressed Cairo’s desire to strengthen bilateral relations and increase trade between the two countries. The region is currently gripped by fears of war, particularly amid threats of military retaliation by Lebanon’s Hezbollah group following the assassination of its top commander, Fuad Shukr, in an Israeli airstrike on Beirut on July 30 and Iran’s threats to retaliate after the assassination of Hamas political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh in the capital Tehran on July 31, an attack attributed to Tel Aviv. The escalation comes against the backdrop of an Israeli onslaught against the Gaza Strip which has killed nearly 39,700 people since last October following a cross-border attack by the Palestinian resistance group Hamas. Tel Aviv is continuing the war, ignoring the UN Security Council’s resolution to immediately cease hostilities, as well as the International Court of Justice’s orders to take measures to prevent acts of genocide and to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
U.N. counterterrorism chief sounds alarm on ISIS in Africa
The Islamic State extremist group is intensifying its activities amidst the political turmoil in West Africa and the Sahel, with a continued focus on international attacks. On Thursday, a senior U.N. counterterrorism official warned the Security Council that the Islamic State and related terrorist groups could extend their influence over a significant portion of Africa. In his briefing, Vladimir Voronkov, U.N. Under-Secretary-General for Counterterrorism, revealed that IS affiliates have expanded their operational areas in West Africa and the Sahel. He described the situation as “challenging and complex,” noting that these groups are causing high casualties and destabilizing the region. Voronkov highlighted that two key IS affiliates, the Islamic State West Africa Province and the Islamic State in the Greater Sahel, have grown their influence. If their reach extends further into northern states, they could control territory stretching from Mali to northern Nigeria. He also noted that IS affiliates have increased their activities in other African regions, including Mozambique, Somalia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Burkina Faso junta urges citizens to report suspicious neighbors
The move has raised concerns about potential human rights abuses.
Former Mozambique finance minister convicted of fraud in US court
Manuel Chang found guilty in Brooklyn court of conspiracy charges linked to $2 billion Mozambique loan scandal.
Nigeria accuses Poles of involvement in anti-government protests
Nigerian security forces have apprehended seven Polish nationals, including students, on allegations of participating in protests.
Somalia takes steps toward direct elections
‘Job starts now and it is the responsibility of the current regime to fulfill their promises to ensure that the next election will be direct,’ political analyst tells Anadolu
DRC court sentences 26 to death, including ex-election chief
The death penalty has been reinstated in DR Congo with a military court sentencing 26 people to death.
Zambian police charge opposition figure with sedition
A prominent Zambian opposition figure, Fred M’membe, has been arrested and charged with seditious practices.
Miss South Africa contestant withdraws amid nationality controversy
Adetshina, who was born in Soweto and raised in Cape Town, has faced intense scrutiny regarding her nationality
RSF condemns Kenyan police brutality against journalists
Two AFP journalists were among those injured by Kenyan police while covering protests.
UN demands fair trial for Tunisian rights activist
They urge the country to respect her right to a fair trial and to protect those involved in truth commissions.
WHO chief warns of catastrophe in Sudan
The WHO chief warns that two-thirds of Sudanese people cannot access medical care due to the ongoing conflict, and millions are facing famine.
Libya government on high alert amidst potential attack
The country is teetering on the brink of another conflict as military tensions escalate.
Mali launches probe into Ukraine’s role in deadly attack
Mali accuses Ukraine of terrorism after a deadly attack that killed Malian soldiers and Russian mercenaries.
At least 20 dead in boat explosion on Nigerian river, police report
Bayelsa police spokesperson Musa Muhammed reported on Thursday that the boat was carrying traders transporting goods to various coastal communities
Kenyan police disperse protesters in Nairobi with tear gas
The nationwide protests, largely led by youth, began peacefully in June but have since turned violent, resulting in the deaths of over 50 people
Hospitality and respect in Africa
Hospitality is more than just a courteous gesture; it is a fundamental way of life
11 killed in armed attack on mining site in Nigeria
Eleven people were killed Wednesday in an armed attack on a mining site in Nigeria’s Zamfara state Gunmen on motorcycles attacked the site in the Anka area, according to local media reports. Several people were also wounded in the attack. Nigeria has long faced attacks from armed gangs as well as terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP, the West African branch of the Daesh/ISIS, in various parts of the country. Despite a mandatory death penalty for kidnapping in Nigeria, abductions for ransom are common. Armed groups often target villages, schools and travelers in the northern part of the country to demand ransom.
Tunisia’s president fires prime minister, appoints successor
Tunisian President Kais Saied dismissed Prime Minister Ahmed Hachani on Wednesday, just a year into his tenure. Saied appointed Kamel Maddouri, the Minister of Social Affairs, as the new Prime Minister, according to a presidential statement. Hours before his dismissal, Hachani claimed in a video message that the government had made progress despite challenges with high food and energy prices. The dismissal comes amid widespread discontent over water and electricity outages across the country. The government blames these issues on a severe drought, leading to water rationing. The agriculture ministry reports that dam levels are critically low at 25 percent, while Saied views the water shortages as a conspiracy against him, asserting that the dams are actually full. Saied has announced his intention to run for president in October, facing strong opposition and criticism from human rights organizations and rivals who accuse him of suppressing and intimidating opponents to secure a second term.
South Africa to enact national health insurance bill despite opposition
South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has pledged to advance the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill despite significant opposition. He signed the contentious Bill into law just before his party, the African National Congress, lost its parliamentary majority in May. The NHI aims to overhaul the country’s two-tier healthcare system to provide universal coverage and gradually reduce the role of private health insurance, currently held by fewer than 16% of South Africans. While supporters view the Bill as a step towards addressing apartheid-era inequalities, critics argue that the funding model is flawed and fear that corruption and budget constraints may hinder its success. On the final day of the ANC policy meeting, Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi announced that some sections of the Bill would be implemented immediately, including forming advisory committees and updating health laws. However, he acknowledged that the full rollout would be phased over several years and might face delays due to legal challenges.
Amnesty: Nigerian security forces kill 21 protesters
Amidst growing economic hardship in Nigeria, protests erupted against government policies.
PSIRA confirms unregistered South Africa camp for 95 Libyans
South Africa’s PSiRA has confirmed that a camp where 95 Libyan nationals were undergoing military-style training was illegal and not accredited.
Mauritania establishes new government
New Cabinet follows reelection of Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani as president for 2nd term in office
US commits $424 million to help DR Congo rebuild
The United States has unveiled a substantial $424 million aid package aimed at alleviating the suffering of millions of people in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
WHO to decide if mpox outbreak is global emergency
Cases have surged in Africa, with neighboring countries reporting infections.
Three veterans vie for African Union top job
At least three seasoned African politicians—representing Djibouti, Kenya, and Mauritius—are competing for the position of chair of the African Union Commission. The pan-continental body, comprising 55 member states, will hold elections during its February summit to select a successor to Moussa Faki Mahamat. This year, the role is designated for a representative from East Africa, aiming to replace Chad’s veteran politician, Faki, who has held the position since 2017. Let’s meet the contenders: Mahamoud Ali Youssouf (Djibouti): As Djibouti’s foreign minister since 2005, Youssouf emphasizes his ability to bridge linguistic and regional divides. Fluent in French, English, and Arabic, he aims to promote unity and address pressing issues, including silencing conflicts across the continent. Raila Odinga (Kenya): A seasoned opposition leader, Odinga, 79, has made five unsuccessful attempts to become Kenya’s president. His political journey involved imprisonment and exile as he fought for democracy during President Daniel arap Moi’s autocratic rule. Odinga’s focus is on securing the chairmanship for Kenya and serving Africa. Anil Gayan (Mauritius): Serving as Mauritius’ foreign minister from 1983 to 1986 and again from 2000 to 2003, Gayan brings experience to the race. His diverse background includes roles in tourism and health ministries. Gayan submitted his candidacy last week, adding another dimension to the competition. The deadline for candidacies closed on August 6, but the final list is yet to be released by the African Union, headquartered in Addis Ababa. The election, conducted by secret ballot, requires the winner to secure a two-thirds majority vote among eligible member states. The AU commission chair serves a four-year term, renewable once