Africa Update

The inauguration of Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema is currently underway. Hichilema is being sworn in for a second five-year term following a disputed election and the arrest of his main opponent on treason charges. Several African leaders are attending the ceremony at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka, including the presidents of Kenya, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Tanzania.  Tracey Boomgaard spoke to Channel Africa Correspondent in Zambia, Arthur Sikopo.

The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Félix Tshisekedi, is in Israel for talks with President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as Kinshasa and Tel Aviv look to deepen ties in security, defence, agriculture, infrastructure, energy and technology.  The visit comes amid strained relations between Israel and several African countries over the war in Gaza, with African governments divided over their approach to Israel. For Tshisekedi, however, the focus is on strengthening bilateral cooperation. This is his second official visit to Israel, following his 2021 trip. Tracey Boomgaard spoke to Dr David Matsanga, a political scientist and conflict resolution analyst.

South Africa's (SA) Parliament Impeachment Committee is being briefed by the Constitutional and Legal Services Office on President Cyril Ramaphosa's objection to the appointment of Advocate Thandazani Madonsela as the committee's evidence leader. The committee is currently dealing with administrative matters following a Western Cape High Court interdict that halted its oral testimony and public hearings. The court's decision is pending a review of the Section 89 Independent Panel report, which will be heard from tomorrow until Friday. Tracey Boomgaard spoke to SABC News reporter Zalene Merrington.

Guinea-Bissau held a referendum over the weekend on proposed constitutional changes that would strengthen presidential powers, ahead of elections intended to restore civilian rule. However, the process has been surrounded by controversy and opposition criticism. The opposition argues that the proposed changes had already been approved and published in the Official Gazette before voters were allowed to have their say. It also objects to the fact that the referendum was drafted by the transitional government without prior consultation with political parties and other stakeholders. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Independent political analyst, Jean Donald Taladzi.

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Félix Tshisekedi has launched a three-month national dialogue aimed at addressing the underlying causes of the country's recurrent political, security and institutional crises.  Tshisekedi says the process would focus on strengthening the state and its institutions rather than negotiating a power-sharing settlement. The initiative, officially described as the National Dialogue for Peace, Cohesion and the Refounding of the State, is expected to produce a National Pact and a strategy for implementing its resolutions. Meanwhile, opposition parties have rejected President Tshisekedi's invitation for a national dialogue.  Lulu Gaboo spoke to Congolese Political Analyst, writer and columnist, Hubert Kabasu Babu.

As South Africa closes off Women's Month, the country's Taxi Association Council (SANTACO) is hosting Women 's National Safe Mobility and Empowerment Summit. Government representatives, taxi industry leaders and sector stakeholders earlier engaged in celebration of the Month, with a high-impact gender-based violence and femicide awareness activation at the Kempton Park Taxi Rank - in Gauteng Province. The taxi rank activation was followed by the SANTACO Women National Safe Mobility and Empowerment Summit, currently underway at Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre.  Lulu Gaboo spoke to Sihle Nkosi, SANTACO Women Public Relations Officer.

Zambian opposition leader Brian Mundubile and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, have been detained on allegations of treason after going into hiding following their rejection of the recent presidential election results. Authorities have accused the opposition figures of planning an armed insurgency, allegations they have denied. The pair had sought refuge with the United Nations (UN) in the capital after security forces killed a former cabinet minister and arrested several opposition politicians during a raid. They were later detained after President Hakainde Hichilema reportedly pressured the UN to hand them over to Zambian authorities. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Wisdom Mulizwa, the Deputy Legal Chairperson of the Citizens First opposition party in Zambia.

Amnesty International South Africa (SA) is staging a silent demonstration for human rights defenders outside the GCIS Ronnie Mamoepa Media Centre in Pretoria. The organisation says little has changed since its first demonstration in February 2026, with human rights defenders continuing to face threats and killings. Amnesty is calling on the SA government to develop and adopt domestic legislation to recognise and protect human rights defenders. South Africa currently has no specific legal or policy framework dedicated to their protection. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Cassandra Dorasamy, a campaigner at Amnesty International SA.

South Africa (SA) reportedly has one of the highest femicide rates in the world, with an estimated 11 women murdered every day. In response, Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Maropene Ramokgopa is set to introduce the Femicide Review Methodology Pilot as part of the government's efforts to strengthen evidence-based responses to Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF). The pilot will draw on international best practices, adapted to the South African context, to promote learning, strengthen prevention efforts and improve coordination among stakeholders. Lulu Gaboo spoke to SA's Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa.

Ghana's government has declined a $1.8 million donation from MTN Ghana intended to support Ghanaians affected by recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the government has already made sufficient financial provisions to cover the evacuation and reintegration of affected Ghanaian citizens. The Ministry clarified that the decision does not amount to a rejection of MTN's support for Ghanaians. Instead, it reflects the government's existing arrangements to finance the ongoing humanitarian response. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Wilberforce Asare, Head of Legal and Political Desk, Asaase Radio.

Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu has ordered the military and intelligence agencies to launch an immediate and coordinated rescue operation following a massive armed raid in north-central Niger State. The attack, which occurred last week in the remote Borgu Local Government Area, left at least 30 people dead, while as many as 600 others, mostly women, children and the elderly, are feared to have been abducted by gunmen. The incident has sparked renewed public outrage over what many Nigerians describe as persistent security failures and weaknesses within the country's security cluster. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Dengiyefa Angalapu, a Research Analyst at the Centre for Democracy and Development.

The Africa Mindset Reset Forum has ended in Kigali after two days of discussions examining one central question: what needs to change for Africa to achieve the continent it wants? The forum, organised by the African School of Governance, brought together political leaders, policymakers, academics, business leaders and young Africans at the Kigali Convention Centre.  Channel Africa's Correspondent in Kigali, Rwanda, Sylivanus Karemera reports.

A court hearing into the alleged unlawful possession of a firearm by Zimbabwean-British national Mark Ndodana Tshuma has been postponed to September 8 by the Johannesburg Magistrates' Court in South Africa.  Tshuma was arrested in Kensington, Johannesburg, after allegedly being found with an unlicensed firearm. He is wanted in the UK over the alleged murders of his wife, Zandile, and their two daughters, Natalie, 15, and Nala, five. He is also expected to appear in another South African court as authorities process a UK extradition request. Lulu Gaboo spoke to SABC News reporter Horisani Sithole.

Some opposition parties in Tanzania say Vice President Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi's surprise resignation, less than 10 months into his term, is a sign of deepening internal divisions within the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party and evidence of a stalled national reform process. Dr Nchimbi will formally leave office and retire from active politics and public service on September 4, 2026. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Shangwe Ayo, ACT-Wazalendo's Deputy Secretary for Information, Publicity and Public Relations.

The political and security situation in South Sudan remains unpredictable, with just three months to go before the country's first-ever national general elections, scheduled for 22 December 2026. The security situation is also expected to feature prominently on the agenda of the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council meeting in Angola. The PSC is expected to consider concrete measures to prevent South Sudan from sliding into full-scale civil war, assess the country's electoral preparedness, and determine whether conditions are in place for credible, peaceful and inclusive elections. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Moses Chrispus Okello, Senior Researcher, Horn of Africa Security Analysis, Institute for Security Studies (ISS), Addis Ababa.

South Africa's (SA) Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, co-chaired the 8th Session of the SA-Brazil Joint Commission (JC) with Brazil's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mauro Vieira, in Pretoria. During the Joint Commission meeting, the two Ministers reviewed the implementation of existing bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding.  The Joint Commission also provided an opportunity to review bilateral relations, assess progress in existing areas of cooperation and identify new opportunities to advance the SA-Brazil Strategic Partnership. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Channel Africa's reporter, Michael Mbewe.

World Water Week 2026 is taking place in Stockholm, Sweden, this week under the theme "Water for People and Progress." The annual conference brings together stakeholders to promote cooperation across sectors and borders on global water challenges. South Africa's Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) says the event offers an opportunity to showcase the country's water reforms, innovations and management approaches, while learning from global experiences and strengthening partnerships. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Dr Risimati Mathye, the Deputy Director-General responsible for Water Services Management at the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS).

Search and rescue operations are continuing in Guinea after a massive pile of rubbish collapsed at a landfill in the capital, Conakry, killing 31 people and injuring 22 others. The disaster occurred on Sunday at the Dar Es Salam waste site after heavy overnight rainfall triggered a landslide. Authorities and emergency teams remain on the scene as they search through the enormous volumes of waste for possible survivors and work to recover those still missing. The tragedy has once again raised concerns about waste management, public safety and the vulnerability of communities living near landfill sites. Guinea-based Journalist Gassimu Bah says rescue teams continue to comb through the debris as recovery efforts proceed.

Angola will host the 21st Extraordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU) in Luanda on August 30. The summit will focus on strengthening mechanisms for conflict prevention, management and resolution across the continent. The meeting will provide a platform for political consultation among AU member states on conflict prevention, the promotion of peace and stability, and the peaceful resolution of crises affecting various parts of Africa. Leaders are expected to discuss ways to enhance continental cooperation and improve the effectiveness of African-led responses to emerging security challenges. The session is also expected to deepen dialogue among member states and reinforce collective efforts to address peace and security concerns, in line with the AU's broader agenda of promoting stability, good governance and sustainable development. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Liesl Louw-Vaudran, Senior Adviser on the African Union at the International Crisis Group.

Kenya’s National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has launched the second edition of its roadmap aimed at promoting a peaceful and violence-free 2027 General Election. The initiative comes as political activity intensifies ahead of the polls, with the NCIC stepping up efforts to tackle hate speech, ethnic polarisation, political incitement and election-related violence. The roadmap brings together government agencies, political parties, civil society organisations, communities and other stakeholders to coordinate efforts to prevent conflict and promote peaceful elections. It is designed to strengthen national cohesion, encourage responsible political engagement and support early interventions to address potential sources of instability. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Channel Africa’s Correspondent in Kenya, Alex Kiarie.

A team of medical experts led by Dr Annah-Mary Nyakabau of CancerServe conducted an outreach programme on Friday at Karanda Mission Hospital near Mt Darwin in Zimbabwe. The initiative provided assistance to more than 300 people, focusing on cancer screening, awareness and treatment services. The outreach comes at a time when growing numbers of Zimbabweans view cancer as a major public health threat, amid concerns about late diagnoses, limited access to treatment, and shortages of essential medicines and medical equipment. Health advocates say early detection remains critical in improving outcomes for cancer patients, while ongoing outreach programmes play an important role in expanding access to screening and support services, particularly in underserved communities. Channel Africa’s Correspondent in Zimbabwe, John Cassim, reports.

South Sudanese President Salva Kiir is in South Africa for an official visit, where he is expected to hold high-level talks with President Cyril Ramaphosa, who chairs the African Union Committee on South Sudan. The talks come as South Sudan prepares for elections later this year, amid concerns from the main opposition party that the Revitalised Peace Agreement is being undermined. The visit is expected to focus on efforts to support peace, political stability and the implementation of key provisions of the peace agreement, which remains central to South Sudan’s transition towards democratic elections. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Advocate Sipho Mantula, a researcher at the Thabo Mbeki African School of Public and International Affairs.

Military officials from Uganda and Burundi reportedly visited Israel last week to discuss the possible deployment of troops to Gaza as part of an international security force proposed by US President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace to support the fragile ceasefire. It remains unclear what Uganda and Burundi could contribute to the force, or what they might receive in return for their participation. If Burundi proceeds with the deployment, the two countries would join Morocco, Kosovo, Kazakhstan and Albania, which have already committed to the proposed international force. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Dr Oluwole Ojewale, ENACT Regional Organised Crime Observatory Coordinator for Central Africa at the Institute for Security Studies.

Human Rights Watch calls on South African government to support recognition of gender apartheid as a crime against humanity Human Rights Watch (HRW) is calling on the South African government to use its influence to support the recognition of gender apartheid as a crime against humanity. The call comes amid the continued systematic oppression of women and girls in Afghanistan under Taliban rule. HRW says it has documented widespread restrictions on the rights of women and girls, including a ban on girls’ education beyond the sixth grade, severe limitations on women’s employment and freedom of movement, and restrictions on their participation in public life. The organisation argues that these abuses amount to the crime against humanity of gender persecution and is urging the international community to take stronger action. Channel Africa’s Mabu Boloka spoke to Horia Mosadiq, Director at Rights Monitor Media.

We frequently admire the beauty of KwaZulu-Natal province in South Africa, including its wildlife and protected areas, but there is a dedicated team working behind the scenes to safeguard these environments. Today, we are speaking with Hlengiwe Fortunate Nzuza, a conservation professional with nearly two decades of experience who has made history as the first Black female Section Ranger in her role at iMfolozi. Lulu Gaboo spoke to 

South Africa's Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation,  Blade Nzimande, says South Africa's women remain underrepresented in research, leadership, and Critical STEM disciplines like engineering, computer science, and artificial intelligence. Nzimande was speaking at the South African Women in Science Awards in Johannesburg on Thursday night. Thuto Ngobeni has the report.

Tunisians took to the streets of the capital, Tunis, calling on President Kais Saied to step down and for the restoration of democracy, in the latest protest against his rule amid growing political and economic discontent. Hundreds of protesters say they rejected what they described as "one-man rule" and a slide towards dictatorship. They also called for the release of jailed opposition figures, activists and journalists. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Channel Africa's Correspondent in Tunisia, Imen Bliwa.

South African human rights and environmental groups are urging the government to reject the bid by Israeli-linked oil company Navitas Petroleum for rights to operate in the strategic offshore Orange Basin. In a letter to the country's Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe, the organisations called on the government to reject companies and activities they say contribute to Israel's occupation and alleged genocide in Palestine, or cause irreversible harm to the oceans and climate. They warn that approving Navitas' involvement could worsen climate change and have severe, long-term consequences for human rights and the environment. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Roshan Dadoo, the Coordinator of the South African BDS Coalition.

South Africa's (SA) opposition party ActionSA has filed papers in the North Gauteng High Court against the SA Police Service, accusing it of a politically driven attempt to shield members of the Presidential Protection Service (PPS) involved in the Phala Phala cover-up. The party is seeking the records of disciplinary hearings that cleared PPS members General Wally Rhoode and Constable Rekhoto of wrongdoing, despite adverse findings by the Public Protector and IPID - Independent Police Investigative Directorate. ActionSA says it will continue to pursue the matter to ensure accountability for the Phala Phala scandal.  Lulu Gaboo spoke to the National Chairperson of ActionSA, Michael Beaumont.

South African (SA) President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to host President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe for the Fourth Session of the South Africa -Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission in the country's capital, Pretoria. The Bi-National Commission serves as the central mechanism for managing and advancing the strategic partnership between South Africa and Zimbabwe.  Lulu Gaboo spoke to Channel Africa's reporter Michael Mbewe.

South African Women in construction were awarded in a glittering ceremony in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Tuesday evening. The 2026 Construction Industry Development Board Empowerment and Recognition of Women in Construction (ERWIC) Awards recognised women making an impact across construction, professional services, innovation, mentorship, disability inclusion and many other categories. Sisi Segalo attended the awards and has more on the story

African leaders and senior officials meeting in Kigali are calling for a fundamental transformation in the way the continent approaches water and sanitation, shifting from short-term infrastructure projects to sustainable systems and reliable services. Channel Africa's Correspondent in Rwanda, Sylivanus Karemera, reports..

Civil rights organisation AfriForum and the March and March Movement have established a joint working group to address grassroots community challenges, promote peaceful coexistence, strengthen community self-reliance and hold government accountable. However, the General Industries Workers' Union of South Africa (GIWUSA) has criticised the initiative, describing it as an assault on the black poor. GIWUSA accuses AfriForum of seeking to preserve the economic privileges of apartheid-era capital, while alleging that March and March aims to reinforce racialised marginalisation and a labour reserve by targeting vulnerable communities. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Mametlwe Sebei, president of the General Industries Workers Union of South Africa (GIWUSA).

Campaigning for Nigeria's upcoming 2027 presidential and legislative elections has kicked off, ahead of the nationwide ballots scheduled for January 2027. Incumbent President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is seeking a second term, with 18 opposition candidates cleared to contest the elections. The main challengers argue that the APC's nearly 12 years in power have left Africa's most populous country poorer, more indebted and no safer than it was when the party came to power in 2015 under former President Muhammadu Buhari. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Austin Aigbe, Advocacy Officer at the West Africa Democracy Solidarity Network (WADEMOS)..

Today is the last day of the "Aluta Continua: Samora Machel, Liberation Movements and the Unfinished Decolonial Project" symposium, which is taking place at Rhodes University in Makhanda, in South Africa's Eastern Cape province. Scholars, thinkers and Samora Machel's family members have been discussing what remains unfinished about Africa's liberation project. The two-day meeting comes forty years after the passing of Mozambique's first president and liberation icon. Unathi Batyashe spoke to Professor Siphokazi Magadla, the dean of the Faculty of Humanities at Rhodes University.

Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema has been re-elected for a second five-year term after securing 60% of the vote. The result follows a contested election process, with his closest challenger, Brian Mundubile, earlier claiming victory and alleging voting irregularities, although he did not provide evidence to support the claims. After being declared the winner, Hichilema said the election had demonstrated that Zambia is a country of peace, law and order, and a democratic nation that settles its differences at the ballot box rather than through other means. Unathi Batyashe spoke to Political Analyst Dr Shingai Mutizwa-Mangiza

On 25 August, Channel Africa will host a webinar exploring "Africa's Digital Future: Innovation & Technology," a global conversation that seeks to redefine innovation from a uniquely African perspective. As part of International Youth Month, Channel Africa is shining a spotlight on the rapid adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on Africa's youth. With the continent home to the world's youngest population, young Africans are no longer simply participating in the AI revolution; they are increasingly driving and shaping it. The webinar will examine how AI and emerging technologies are transforming opportunities for young Africans, while exploring the challenges, skills and policies needed to ensure that the continent's youth are at the forefront of Africa's digital future. Unathi Batyashe spoke to the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC)'s Group Executive: Technology, Dr Vuyo Nyembezi

Africa's energy and infrastructure deficit remains one of the biggest obstacles to economic growth, industrialisation and regional trade. That challenge is now at the centre of discussions in Johannesburg, where policymakers, investors and industry leaders are meeting for the Continental Energy and Infrastructure Investment Forum. The forum is looking at how Africa can mobilise capital for critical infrastructure, expand energy access and develop projects that can support industrialisation and deeper economic integration across the continent. Unathi Batyashe spoke to Chiboni Evans, the convener of the Continental Energy and Infrastructure Investment Forum.

Incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema of the United Party for National Development (UPND) is leading in the ongoing vote count following Zambia's general election on August 13. With more than half of the country's constituencies officially counted by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), Hichilema has secured nearly 59% of the vote. The main opposition candidate, Brian Mundubile of the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Progress (NRPUP), is in second place with roughly 42%.  Unathi Batayshe spoke to our Correspondent in Zambia, Arthur Davies Sikopo.

Incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema of the United Party for National Development (UPND) is leading in the ongoing vote count following Zambia's general election on August 13. With more than half of the country's constituencies officially counted by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), Hichilema has secured nearly 59% of the vote. The main opposition candidate, Brian Mundubile of the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Progress (NRPUP), is in second place with roughly 42%. Unathi Batyashe spoke to Dr Albanie Marcossy, a public policy, governance and development specialist.

Scholars, thinkers, and members of the family of the former president of Mozambique, Samora Machel, are gathering at Rhodes University in Makhanda, in South Africa's Eastern Cape province, to discuss what remains unfinished in Africa's liberation project. The two-day meeting comes forty years after the passing of Mozambique's first president and liberation icon. Unathi Batyashe spoke to Professor Siphokazi Magadla, the dean of the Faculty of Humanities at Rhodes University.

More than 70 men have been arrested in Senegal as authorities intensify a crackdown on same-sex relations following the introduction of tougher anti-LGBTQ+ legislation earlier this year. The crackdown has drawn strong criticism from human rights organisations and the United Nations.  UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk had urged Senegal not to adopt the new law, warning of its potential impact on human rights and discrimination. The UN has previously called on Senegal to decriminalise consensual same-sex relations between adults. Unathi Batyashe spoke to Seif Magango, Spokesperson for the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights...

It's all systems go, ahead of Zambia's general elections this Thursday, 13 August 2026, when voters will head to the polls to elect the President, members of the National Assembly, councillors and council chairpersons. The Electoral Commission of Zambia says ballot papers have been distributed across the country and verified by various stakeholders. Zambia has also welcomed international delegations and election observer missions, including those from the European Union and COMESA. Incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema is seeking a second term in office under the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) alliance.  Unathi Batyashe spoke to Channel Africa's Correspondent in Zambia, Arthur Davies Sikopo.

More than 70 men have been arrested in Senegal since the country introduced a new anti-LGBTQ+ law earlier this year. On 7 August, the public prosecutor's office confirmed that 71 men had been arrested and charged with "unnatural acts" as authorities intensify a crackdown on same-sex relations. A further 28 men had their charges dropped due to insufficient evidence. Human rights organisations have strongly criticised the legislation, arguing that it violates international human rights protections.  Unathi Batyahse spoke to journalist and geopolitical analyst, Amadou Camara Gueye.

Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo's growing presence in Kenya's political and commercial circles has come under scrutiny after he posted a video showing President William Ruto driving him to a helipad at his home in Kilgoris. Chivayo is reportedly a regular visitor to State House and has spoken publicly about his close interactions with the President. The founder of Intratrek Zimbabwe, which is involved in renewable energy projects, was also linked in June 2026 to the proposed expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. While reports claimed a company associated with Chivayo had secured a role in the multi-billion-dollar project, the Kenyan government has denied any involvement by him or his company in the procurement process.  Unathi Batyashe spoke to Channel Africa's Correspondent in Kenya, Alex Kiarie.

The Malawi government says it will conclude its government-backed programme this week to repatriate citizens who have chosen to leave South Africa (SA) amid concerns over insecurity and rising tensions involving foreign nationals. The Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DODMA) says it has so far repatriated 56,723 Malawians under the programme. The repatriation initiative was established to assist Malawian nationals who wanted to return home amid growing concerns about their safety and living conditions in parts of SA.  Unathi Batyashe spoke to Phaskani Msiska, from the Migration and Labour Centre.

South Africa (SA) on Sunday commemorated the 70th anniversary of the historic 1956 Women's March, at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, with President Cyril Ramaphosa calling for the full empowerment of women. The occasion marked the 70th anniversary of the 1956 protest march to the Union Buildings by at least 20,000 women who marched to oppose the apartheid government's decision to extend urban pass laws to women and became a precursor to major political changes over the following decades that ultimately led to the demise of the racist regime in SA. Channel Africa's reporter Michael Mbewe filed this report.

Kenya's High Court has ruled that the next presidential election should be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, rather than August 10, 2027, the date currently set by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).  The court found that the Constitution requires the presidential election to be held in August of the fifth year following the previous general election, leaving no discretion to the electoral commission to determine the date. However, the court declined to order the IEBC to immediately organise the election, citing the late filing of the petition and the fact that the government, political parties and candidates had already made extensive preparations for an August 2027 poll. Unathi Batyashe on Kenya-based Senior Journalist and Communication expert, Tervil Okoko.

A Senegalese court has sentenced three TikTok influencers to prison and imposed fines after convicting them of insulting President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Critics have condemned the ruling as an attack on free speech in the West African nation. The three men worked for Feenal Digital, an online media platform that produces content widely viewed as supportive of former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, leader of the PASTEF party. Sonko recently parted ways with his former ally, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who launched his own political party last month. Lulu Gaboo spoke to Mamadou Thior, Senegalese Political Analyst and President of Cored.

Burkina Faso has been placed on an international human rights watchlist following growing concerns over the country's deteriorating civic and political freedoms under military rule. According to CIVICUS, a global alliance of civil society organisations and activists, authorities have increasingly restricted the activities of civil society organisations, political opposition parties, journalists, and government critics. In a statement, CIVICUS called on Burkina Faso's leader, Ibrahim Traoré, to reverse the dissolution and suspension of civil society organisations, allow political parties to operate freely, and initiate a genuine dialogue to restore democratic governance.  Lulu Gaboo spoke to Dr Baiye Mbu, West and Central Africa Researcher for the CIVICUS Monitor.