South African "Missionary Mother" Among The Dead In US Church Massacre

South African ‘Missionary Mother’ among dead in US church massacre Thelma Rina Armstrong was among four people who lost their lives, and eight others injured, at a church in the United States. By Tebogo Tsape 16-10-25 18:37 in Crime Thelma Armstrong. Image: Facebook via Klerksdorp News Thelma Armstrong. Image: Facebook via Klerksdorp News Thelma Rina Armstrong, a 54-year-old woman born in Klerksdorp, South Africa, was among those tragically killed in a targeted act of violence at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on Sunday, 28 September 2025. The South African expat was among the four people who lost their lives, and eight others injured, after Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, allegedly rammed his pickup truck into the church, opened fire on congregants with an assault rifle, and set the building ablaze during worship. Sanford was shot dead at the scene by police. She was laid to rest in the US on 11 October 2025. Thelma Rina Armstrong: ‘Missionary Mother’ Armstrong, who had immigrated to the US in 2019, had a deep connection to her South African roots. Before moving, she worked in retail and eventually became the manager at Food Zone in Klerksdorp, where she was renowned for her kindness, loyalty and willingness to listen to anyone who needed a friend. A convert to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 2011, Armstrong’s faith was described as unbreakable. She earned the cherished title of “Missionary Mother” because she loved every missionary who visited her Christ-centered home and made an effort to maintain contact with them and their families. Within the Grand Blanc church community, she served joyfully as a teacher for the five-year-old class. In the US, Armstrong held a position as a Quality Technician at American Axle, where she was celebrated for always looking her best, greeting everyone with a smile, and remembering names. Obit Her greatest joy, according to a US funeral home, was found in her family, especially her beloved grandchildren, Cassius, Amaryllis, and Rhiannon Lichtenberg, who knew her affectionately as “Yia Yia”. Armstrong is survived by her children, Charne’ (Shane) Lichtenberg (of Grand Blanc) and Damon Du Bruyn (who resides in South Africa), along with siblings and a stepmother. While investigators are still searching for a definitive motive, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated the attacker was “an individual who hated people of the Mormon faith”.

"Trailer Trash Post" Costs South African National His US Visa Amid Trump Cracckdown

‘Trailer trash’ post costs South African national his US visa amid Trump crackdown In revoking the US visa, the State Department declared that it had ‘no obligation to host foreigners who wish death on Americans’. By Tebogo Tsape 15-10-25 15:46 in News Image showing a revoked US visa, accompanying a story about US State Department cancelling people's visas who allegedly mocked Charlie Kirk's death Image: Flickr South African media personality Nhlamulo “Nota” Baloyi has had his United States visa immediately revoked by the State Department following controversial comments he made on social media regarding the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Baloyi’s US visa was cancelled pursuant to section 221(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act on 29 September 2025, due to information indicating he may no longer be eligible to travel to the US. The State Department flagged a post from the South African national mocking Americans’ grief, stating they were “hurt that the racist rally ended in attempted martyrdom” and alleging Kirk “was used to astroturf a movement of white nationalist trailer trash”. The revocation arrived on the same day US President Donald Trump posthumously awarded the nation’s highest civilian honour, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, to Charlie Kirk, on what would have been his 32nd birthday. Baloyi, whose deleted X (formerly Twitter) post referred to Kirk’s supporters as “Neanderthals,” has since issued an apology. While he acknowledged the post was “insensitive & ill-timed”, he categorically denied intending or implying that he was making light of the incident. Baloyi also noted his conservative leanings and declared himself “a supporter of President Trump”. However, the US government remained firm in its sweeping action, declaring explicitly that it had “no obligation to host foreigners who wish death on Americans”. Six US visas revoked In total, the State Department announced the revocation of six US visas, targeting foreigners who allegedly celebrated the “heinous assassination”. The crackdown includes nationals from Argentina, Mexico, Brazil, Germany and Paraguay. The State Department stated clearly that it “will defend our borders, our culture, and our citizens by enforcing our immigration laws” and removing “aliens who take advantage of America’s hospitality” while celebrating the death of citizens. Party for late Charlie Kirk The Medal of Freedom ceremony, held in the newly-renovated White House Rose Garden, honoured Kirk, the Turning Point USA co-founder who Trump hailed as “a giant of his generation”. Kirk – who previously misled his audience about South Africa’s “racist and dangerous policy of murdering white farmers” – was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University on 10 September. Trump told Erika Kirk, Charlie Kirk’s widow, that he would “never forget what your family has sacrificed for our country”. The aggressive stance against foreigners’ online remarks highlights a significant expansion of social media scrutiny across the US. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau previously directed consular officials to take action against those “praising, rationalising, or making light of the event” and urged internet users to report such comments. This policy follows the US government revoking more than 6,000 student visas this year, particularly targeting international students supporting certain protests. The State Department is actively enforcing immigration laws against anyone perceived to be glorifying violence.

South African Ex Pat Elon Musk Is A Big Land Owner in Texas

Is South African expat Elon Musk the largest landowner in Texas? Elon Musk’s land grab in Texas is bigger than most realise, but it’s not the size that’s turning heads – it’s what he’s building on it. By James Durrant 13-10-25 09:22 in South African Expats Elon Musk Despite his vast 6 000-acre empire of factories and launch sites, Elon Musk’s influence in Texas comes from innovation, not land size. Image: File/Canva Despite owning more than 500 properties across 6 000 acres valued at $3.4 billion, the South African expat doesn’t even crack Texas’s top ten landowners. Until recently, the full scope of Elon Musk’s Texas takeover remained unclear. His companies now own more than 500 properties covering approximately 6 000 acres. This expansive network of factories, tunnels, and launch pads spreads from the state’s northern regions to its southern tip. “He’s going all in on Texas,” Goran Calic, a strategy professor at McMaster University who spent years studying Musk’s management style, told the Houston Chronicle. “And the reason he’s doing it is because of control. Elon Musk has more control in Texas than he does anywhere else.” How Musk’s Holdings Compare Whilst 6,000 acres sounds impressive, it pales in comparison to the state’s true land barons. Texas’s largest private landowner is Brad Kelley, who controls over 940 000 acres, more than 150 times Musk’s holdings. Texas Pacific Land Corporation ranks first amongst corporate landowners with over 1 000 square miles, whilst the legendary King Ranch covers 825 000 acres, larger than Rhode Island. The Austin Empire: Giga Texas and Beyond The star of Musk’s Lone Star takeover is Giga Texas, Tesla’s 2 500-acre factory complex in Austin. Since opening in 2022, the facility has ballooned to over ten million square feet of production space and could double if plans for another wave of buildings move forward. The factory cranks out Teslas, including Model Ys and the Cybertruck, which are shuttled through tunnels beneath Texas. About 20 miles east in Bastrop, Musk’s Boring Company has carved out more than 350 acres for testing giant machines and houses staff in a makeshift village called Snailbrook. Across the road sits a massive 700 000-square-foot SpaceX Starlink factory that churns out 70 000 satellite kits weekly, with plans to double in size. Texas Governor Greg Abbott facilitated the expansion with a $17.3 million grant for a $280 million SpaceX project. Environmental Controversies The Boring Company’s rapid expansion hasn’t been without issues. In 2023, nearby residents claimed construction was affecting livestock and accused crews of dumping untreated wastewater into the Colorado River. Whilst Boring generally denied the allegations, the company was fined $11,876 by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for violations including ineffective erosion controls and discharging industrial stormwater without a permit. Starbase: Building a Company Town Near Brownsville, Musk converted scrubland to create Starbase, a de facto company town of 500 residents and thousands of workers. The facility houses Starship, the tallest rocket ever built, and over one million square feet of manufacturing space. Musk is pushing to expand the launchpad further and add housing, retail, and a grocery store. The Southern Expansion Even further south near Corpus Christi, Tesla is bringing a lithium refinery to Robstown, designed to supply battery-grade material for one million electric vehicles annually. The empire extends through leased facilities as well, including SpaceX’s rocket testing site in McGregor, southwest of Waco, and Tesla’s planned 1.03 million-square-foot battery manufacturing plant in Brookshire, west of Houston. The Expat’s Influence Beyond Acreage The South African expat relocated to Texas in December 2020, attracted by lighter regulations, lower taxes, and a business-friendly environment compared to California. Whilst his strategic approach prioritises operational control over sheer acreage, the answer is clear: Elon Musk is not Texas’s largest landowner, not even close. His 6 000 acres represent less than 1% of what the state’s land barons control. But when it comes to reshaping Texas’s economic landscape through innovation and industry, the billionaire wields influence that extends far beyond property lines. 'SA People' is hiring! Freelance writer positions available. Send us your CV

Afrikaaners In The US: Expats Or Regugees?

Afrikaners in the US: Expats or refugees? Loophole or Lifeline? 59 Afrikaners touch down in the US as official refugees in 2025 while “real” war refugees remain stuck in the queue. By James Durrant 05-10-25 07:20 in South African Expats Afrikaners in the US Picture this: 59 Afrikaners touch down in the US as official refugees in 2025. Meanwhile, actual war refugees? Still stuck in the queue. Awkward, right? Image: Mistral. Van der Merwe walks into a bar in Dallas and orders a beer. The bartender asks, “So, are you an expat or a refugee?” Van der Merwe pauses. “Ja, good question…” When 59 Afrikaners arrived at Dulles Airport in May 2025 under official refugee status, it sparked a debate that’s more complicated than it first appears. Right, full disclosure: I wasn’t much good at Afrikaans at school. Barely scraped through matric, so I’m probably the last person wading into this. But when those charter flights started landing in the US with Afrikaners claiming refugee status, I couldn’t help wondering wait, can you do that? The Tale of the 59 Afrikaners Here’s what actually happened: 59 Afrikaners touched down at Dulles Airport in May 2025 on a government-chartered flight. They were greeted by State Department officials, processed in months (not years), and officially designated as refugees under Trump’s executive order. Another 9 arrived shortly after. The State Department had received 8 000 enquiries about the programme. Meanwhile, refugees from actual war zones? Door closed. Syrian families? Nope. Venezuelan asylum seekers? Suspended. But this one very specific group? Red carpet treatment. Here’s the kicker: in fiscal year 2024, exactly zero South Africans were resettled in the US as refugees. Zero. Then suddenly… What’s in a word? Let’s see what Oxford actually says: Expatriate: “A person living in a country that is not their own, usually by choice.” Refugee: “A person who has been forced to leave their own country because they are in danger.” Asylum Seeker: “A person who has been forced to leave their own country because they are in danger and who arrives in another country asking to be allowed to stay there.” See those keywords? “By choice” versus “forced” versus “in danger.” It’s not just semantics, it’s literally the difference between waiting years for a visa and being flown in on a chartered plane. The Uncomfortable Bit According to Oxford’s own data, the words that most commonly appear with “expat” are: British, American, Indian, Canadian, Australian. Words that appear with “immigrant”? Illegal, undocumented, Mexican, legal, Chinese. Words with “refugee”? Syrian, Palestinian, Afghan, Somali, Sudanese. So when predominantly white, English-speaking South Africans arrive on government charters and get called “refugees”… ag, you can see why people have questions, né? But are they actually refugees? The Trump administration claimed Afrikaners were facing “genocide” and “race-based persecution.” The South African government said, essentially, “eish, that’s a bit dramatic.” Many of the new arrivals spoke English, a third had relatives already in the US, and some cited violence that happened 25 years ago. They mentioned not trusting the police and general safety concerns – fair enough, but don’t millions of South Africans of all races share those exact same worries? So what’s the answer? Here’s where I admit I genuinely don’t know. Are they: Expats who found a political loophole to skip the visa queue? Refugees genuinely fleeing persecution? Something in between – people whose privilege and politics aligned at exactly the right moment? The fear these folks feel is real. The violence in SA exists. But does it meet the international threshold for refugee status? The South African government says no. The Trump administration says yes. Everyone else is just confused. It’s a bit like claiming refugee status from Camps Bay because of property crime, innit? Technically the crime exists. Technically you’ve left. But… Your Turn Honestly? I don’t have the answer. I barely passed Afrikaans at school and I’m clearly not cut out for international refugee law either. Are they expats or refugees? Does it even matter? Is the whole debate missing the point? Drop your thoughts on our socials – because one thing’s certain: those 8 000 people waiting for the next flight aren’t worried about semantics.

South Africa: Expat Grief Is Real

Expat grief is real, but nobody talks about it You chose a new life abroad, so why does success feel like sacrifice? The guilt, the missed moments, the love split between two worlds – this is expat grief. By James Durrant 09-10-25 10:14 in South African Expats Expat grief is real, but nobody talks about it Everyone understands the grief of missing a final goodbye. But what about the years of quiet loss before that—the Sunday lunches, the aging parents, the life you left behind? This is the expat grief no one talks about. Image: Unsplash My mother died in November 2019 after a long battle with cancer. I flew home from London knowing she was about to die. My father phoned me while I was standing in passport control at Cape Town International to tell me my mum had just died. I was 20 minutes too late. That’s the kind of grief people understand. They say “I’m so sorry” and they mean it. What they don’t understand is the other grief, the one that started years before that phone call. The grief of watching her age through FaceTime. The grief of missing Sunday lunches and school plays and the thousand small moments that make up a relationship. The grief of knowing that when I chose London, I also chose distance. The loss that isn’t really loss Psychologists call it “ambiguous loss”, grief for something that isn’t technically gone but feels unreachable. Your parents are alive, but you’re not there to help them navigate their smartphones or notice they’ve started walking slower. Your nephew is growing up, but you’re experiencing it through WhatsApp photos with a seven-hour time delay. Your best friend from university stopped calling because the time difference made spontaneity impossible. You chose this life. That’s what makes the grief so complicated. When people ask how you’re doing in London, they expect you to say “great” because, objectively, you are. But that success feels like it was bought with something precious. Every promotion, every lovely weekend in the Cotswolds, every moment of feeling genuinely at home here, comes with a whisper of guilt. The grief nobody wants to hear about The problem is you can’t really talk about it. Say you’re struggling with being away from family and people back home think you’re having regrets. Mention you missed your dad’s 70th birthday and colleagues say “but you can visit anytime”. Post something melancholic about South Africa on social media and someone will comment “then come back” as if it’s that simple. So most expats just carry it quietly. We WhatsApp our families every week and pretend the screen doesn’t feel like a barrier. We book flights home and pretend two weeks a year is enough. We watch our parents age in annual increments and tell ourselves it’s fine, everyone deals with this, stop being dramatic. Living with both Twenty years in, I’ve learned you don’t resolve this grief. You learn to hold it alongside the joy. I love my life in London and I grieve what I’ve missed in South Africa. Both things are true. The mistake I made for years was thinking I had to choose one feeling or the other. Missing my mum’s last moments was devastating. But the real grief started long before that flight. It was in every milestone I attended via video call, every crisis I couldn’t physically help with, every “I wish you were here” that hung in the air during family gatherings I saw in Instagram photos later. This is what nobody tells you about being an expat. The grief doesn’t come all at once. It accumulates in small doses over decades. And sometimes, standing in passport control holding a phone, it all arrives at once. What have you grieved as an expat? What losses do you carry that are hard to explain to people who’ve never lived this split existence?

Madagascar's Generation Z Protestors Push For Change

Nothing to Lose: Madagascar’s Gen Z Protesters Push For Change – and Get It Madagascar Rakotoarivao Andritiana Kevin, a 20-year-old Malagasy law student, walks to a public water fountain every day to wait 90 minutes before he can fill his water container – frequent water shortages in Madagascar often leave him going without at home. He has nowhere to turn to, however, when electrical surges during frequent power cuts damage his appliances and computers, and leave him in the dark. “Our lives are wrecked,” Kevin told the New York Times. “Everything is falling apart.” That’s why Kevin has been among the thousands of young people on the Indian Ocean island who have taken part in demonstrations for weeks. These began over these utility shortages but have since morphed into wider protests against the country’s high unemployment rate, cost-of-living, and its breathtaking landscape of corruption. On Tuesday, the protests brought down the government. Late Monday, President Andry Rajoelina said in a social media post from an undisclosed location that he had fled the country – with the help of France – in fear for his life after the elite CAPSAT military unit joined the protests over the weekend. He did not resign. “I was forced to find a safe place to protect my life,” Rajoelina said in his speech broadcast on the president’s official Facebook page. He said he was “on a mission to find solutions” and also dissolved the National Assembly, the lower house of parliament, by decree. Instead, the legislature voted Tuesday to impeach the president, a move that must be confirmed by the Constitutional Court to become valid. The problem is, the military government that took over the country on Tuesday under the leadership of Col Michael Randrianirina, chief of CAPSAT, said it has suspended the court and all other state institutions except the General Assembly – even as the court confirmed his new status as leader of the country. “We will form a government and reach consensus,” Randrianirina told reporters in Madagascar, adding that the country would hold elections within the next 18 months to two years. The CAPSAT chief said Gen Z Mada protesters would be part of the transformation because “the movement was created in the streets so we have to respect their demands.” He added that he and his fellow officers had no choice but to unseat the current regime: “There is no president, there is no government… nothing here works.” Over the weekend, CAPSAT soldiers posted a video to social media, telling their fellow soldiers, “Let us join forces, military, gendarmes, and police, and refuse to be paid to shoot our friends, our brothers and our sisters.” The protesters hailed the military takeover, remaining on the streets Tuesday, singing and dancing, joined by civil servants and union leaders. Workers at the state-owned utility company demanded that its CEO resign. “We’re so happy Andry Rajoelina is finally gone… We will start again,” high-school student Fih Nomensanahary told Reuters. Inspired by Gen Z protests erupting around the world against governments, the trigger for these demonstrations was the arrest on Sept. 25 of two leading politicians representing the capital, Antananarivo, who had planned protests in their city. Afterward, an online youth movement known as Gen Z Mada organized the marches there, which then spread to other cities across the island and have drawn Malagasy of all ages, underlining frustrations over corruption and living conditions that span generations, say analysts. Despite its rich natural resources, Madagascar is one of the world’s poorest countries, with nearly three-quarters of its population of 32 million living below the poverty line. The average annual income in 2025 was $461, almost half of what it was in 1960 when it became independent from France, a decline blamed on corruption. “We’re still struggling,” Heritiana Rafanomezantsoa, a protester in Antananarivo, told Agence France-Presse. “The problem is the system. Our lives haven’t improved since we gained independence from France.” The government, however, had reacted harshly to the protests: It deployed tear gas and live rounds demonstrators, killing at least 22 people and injuring hundreds more. Still, in late September, Rajoelina fired all his cabinet ministers in a bid to appease protesters and stop the unrest, the worst since his reelection in 2023 in a vote critics say was marred by fraud, and which the opposition boycotted. The move, however, failed to satisfy the demonstrators. The president refused to step down, instead describing the protests as an attempted coup. “(The protesters) have been exploited to provoke a coup,” said Rajoelina, a former DJ, who took power himself in a CAPSAT-backed coup in 2009. “Countries and agencies paid for this movement to get me out, not through elections, but for profit…” At the same time, Rajoelina, since early October, had been mobilizing thousands of his supporters in counter-protests that have been far smaller and, as anti-government protesters pointed out, allowed to gather. Supporters of the government say all is fine in the country. “We have water, we have electricity, it works very well,” one of the president’s supporters told Africanews, adding that they just wanted life to return to normal. Meanwhile, last week, Rajoelina appointed army Gen. Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo as the new prime minister. The decision was seen as a significant militarization of the government and an effort by the president to secure the army’s support, the BBC wrote. Gen Z protesters, however, rejected Zafisambo’s appointment: In addition to Rajoelina’s resignation, they wanted the dissolution of parliament, the replacement of constitutional court judges and electoral commission members, and a crackdown on corruption, including investigations into the president and top businessmen close to him. Now, analysts say his fate is likely to echo that of his predecessor, Marc Ravalomanana, who was ousted by protesters in 2009. “He has left the country and doesn’t have a government in place because he dismissed it a week ago – and he doesn’t have the support of the legislature, the army, or his people,” said Luke Freeman of the University College London in an interview with France 24. “It will be difficult for him to come back from this,” he added. “The challenge for Gen Z now is to stay part of the conversation, now that the army and the politicians are taking the lead in moving (the country) forward. They don’t want a situation where all of their efforts get taken over by the old guard whom they want to see replaced, within the old system that they want overthrown.” Share this story

Madagascar Faces Power Struggle

Madagascar Faces Power Struggle as Elite Army Unit Joins Youth-Led Protests Madagascar Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina warned Sunday that an “attempt to seize power illegally and by force” was underway after an elite army unit that once helped him take power in a 2009 coup said it was assuming command of the military after weeks of escalating protests demanding his resignation, the Guardian reported. Over the weekend, leaders of the elite CAPSAT unit marked the most serious challenge to Rajoelina’s rule since his reelection in 2023, which was marred by allegations of fraud. The unit’s leaders announced they were taking control of national security operations and coordinating all military branches from their base outside the capital, Antananarivo. They were soon joined by elements of the gendarmerie (military force with law enforcement duties), who said in a televised statement that they would “protect the people, not the interests of a few individuals,” Reuters added. It is not clear if the rest of the military was under CAPSAT control. The crisis marks a major escalation after nearly three weeks of youth-led protests that began on Sept. 25 over water and electricity shortages. The demonstrations quickly evolved into calls for Rajoelina’s ouster, an end to corruption, and a complete political overhaul. Thousands have participated in the “Gen Z” protests, with CAPSAT soldiers joining the protests over the weekend after previously refusing orders to shoot at protesters. Amid the turmoil, Rajoelina’s office said he was “in the country, managing national affairs,” though his exact whereabouts remained unclear. Newly appointed Prime Minister Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo, who is a general, said the government was ready to “engage in dialogue with all factions,” including youth and military representatives. At least 22 people have been killed since the unrest began, though Rajoelina has disputed that number. The African Union has called for calm and urged all sides to avoid violence as fears of another coup mounted over the weekend.

Cape Town's Best Three Markets To Visit

Cape Town’s best 3 markets to visit: Days and opening times you need to know If you’re visiting Cape Town or living in the Mother City, consider visiting these three markets. Here’s when they’re open … By James Durrant 06-10-25 10:36 in Cape Town Oranjezicht City Farm Market If you're visiting Cape Town or living in the Mother City, consider visiting these three markets. Image: Oranjezicht City Farm Market Being originally from Cape Town with family and businesses there, I’m lucky to visit ‘home’ regularly. Three markets I never miss are festival-like experiences that capture everything I love about Cape Town’s vibrant food and community culture. If you’re visiting or living in the city, you should visit these too. 1. Oranjezicht City Farm Market – Now at a Stunning New Waterfront Location Days: Saturday, Sunday, and Wednesday evenings (seasonal) Opening Times: Saturday: 08:00 – 14:00 Sunday: 08:30 – 14:00 Wednesday Night Market: 16:00 – 21:00 (September 2025 to April 2026) Location: Granger Bay, V&A Waterfront, Beach Road The Oranjezicht Market has always been my go-to for fresh, sustainable, locally-sourced produce, and now it’s better than ever. In October 2025, this beloved farmers’ market relaunched at its new location within the V&A Waterfront’s Granger Bay precinct. Consistently ranked in the top 10 farmers’ markets worldwide, the market now occupies a beautiful wooden shed designed by a prominent architect. The new space offers more room, better parking (350 bays), and improved connectivity with the waterfront – while keeping the signature woodchips and dog-friendly atmosphere locals love. This is where I do my weekly shopping when ‘home’ – fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, artisanal bread, organic dairy, free-range eggs, raw honey, and ethically sourced meats and seafood. The focus is squarely on local, fresh, seasonal ingredients from independent farmers and artisanal producers. The relocation is part of the V&A Waterfront’s R20 billion Granger Bay expansion. The market has retained its authentic, community-driven spirit while gaining the space it deserves. What makes it special: Commitment to sustainable food systems, quality produce, community atmosphere, and unbeatable ocean views. Pro tip: Arrive early Saturday mornings. Dogs on short leashes welcome. 2. Neighbourgoods Market at The Old Biscuit Mill – The Original Hipster Haven Days: Saturday and Sunday Opening times: Saturday: 09:00 – 15:00 (designers), food stalls until 17:00 Sunday: 10:00 – 15:00 (designers), food stalls until 17:00 Location: 373-375 Albert Road, Woodstock If Oranjezicht is about farm-fresh produce, Neighbourgoods is about street food culture and creative community. Located in a former biscuit factory in Woodstock, this market has been Cape Town’s cultural hub for nearly two decades. This is where I come for inspiration from Cape Town’s creative energy. The market offers designer street food from around the world – flammkuchen, Korean delicacies, pasta, shakshuka, Swahili doughnuts, paella, and shisa nyama. Options for everyone: vegan, halaal, and sugar-free. Live DJs and bands create an incredible atmosphere. Beyond food, you’ll find handcrafted products, designer clothing, organic beauty products, and artisanal goods from local makers. What makes it special: The vibe, people-watching, and fusion of food, design, and live music representing Cape Town’s cosmopolitan spirit. Pro tip: No parking available Saturdays. Use Cape Town College parking opposite (R10 all day, entrance on Kent Street) or take MyCiti bus route 261. Dogs on leashes welcome. Neighbourgoods Market at The Old Biscuit Mill 3. Bay Harbour Market – Hout Bay’s Vibrant Celebration Days: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday Opening times: Friday: 17:00 – 21:00 (Friday Nite LIVE!) Saturday & Sunday: 09:30 – 16:00 Location: 31 Harbour Road, Hout Bay Set in an old fish factory at Hout Bay Harbour, Bay Harbour Market is the most vibrant market in Cape Town. This is where I bring visitors who want to experience South African creativity, culture, and cuisine in one place. Friday nights are special, with live music on the Brampton sound stage that creates a party atmosphere. The market hosts musicians, dancers, and entertainers throughout the day. You can enjoy with a craft beer or local wine, or get up and dance. Over 100 traders offer handmade clothing, jewellery, art, and foods representing every cuisine. The indoor setting means rain or shine visits, with an outdoor area for fresh sea breezes. The Hout Bay Harbour setting, surrounded by mountains and ocean, is spectacular. What makes it special: Live entertainment, diversity of offerings, and genuinely South African atmosphere. A social enterprise supporting traders from disadvantaged backgrounds. Pro tip: Friday nights have the best vibe. Pets not allowed inside. Explore Hout Bay while you’re there. Bay Harbour Market Why These Three Markets Matter Each market offers something different but equally essential to the Cape Town experience. Oranjezicht celebrates sustainable food systems. Neighbourgoods showcases creative culture and global cuisine. Bay Harbour brings together the diversity and spirit that makes South Africa special. When I’m ‘home’, I visit all three because they’re about community, connection, and celebrating what makes Cape Town one of the world’s great food cities. Whether you’re after fresh produce, global street food, or festive market atmosphere with live music, these three deliver every time.

Drug Lord Secures Protection In Siera Leone By Having A Child With The President's Daughter

Drug lord 'secures protection in Sierra Leone by having a child with the president's daughter' By Olivia Allhusen, 2 days ago Europe's most wanted cocaine kingpin has secured protection in West Africa by fathering a child with the daughter of Sierra Leone's president, according to opposition figures. Dutch trafficker Jos Leijdekkers, known as Chubby Jos, has spent more than two years on the run in Sierra Leone while being hunted by European authorities. The 34-year-old, who faces prison sentences totalling 74 years, is allegedly being shielded by President Julius Maada Bio. Opposition leader Mohamed Kamarainba Mansaray claims that Agnes Bio, the president's daughter, gave birth to Leijdekkers' child in New York. He accused the Bio government of protecting the Dutch fugitive and blocking efforts to bring him to justice. Leijdekkers has been seen socialising with the Bio family, including at a New Year's church service filmed and shared on social media by First Lady Fatima Bio, where he appeared standing two rows behind the president. Reports that he sat beside the president's daughter were denied by Bio, who insisted he does not know Leijdekkers. Footage obtained by Follow the Money and AD also shows Leijdekkers at a private birthday party in March 2024 for Alusine Kanneh, Sierra Leone's immigration chief, where he presented a gift during the celebration. The 34-year-old (pictured), who faces prison sentences totalling 74 years, is allegedly being shielded by President Julius Maada Bio Leijdekkers has a €200,000 reward for his capture and reportedly remained in Sierra Leone during the birth, while President Bio visited his daughter and grandchild in New York during the UN General Assembly. In response to mounting reports, Sierra Leone's communications ministry issued a statement saying Bio had 'no knowledge of the identity or the issues detailed' concerning Leijdekkers. Convicted multiple times in the Netherlands and Belgium for large-scale cocaine trafficking, Leijdekkers was sentenced in September to eight years in Belgium, bringing his total prison term there to 50 years. He also faces charges including torture and murder. Last year, he received a 24-year sentence in the Netherlands for his role in six major drug shipments. Dutch authorities have formally requested his extradition, but the appeal remains unresolved. Now living under the alias Omar Sheriff, Leijdekkers is believed to be running a vast smuggling network from a fortified compound in Freetown, worth an estimated €1 billion. The so-called Africa route - used to funnel cocaine into Europe - now accounts for a third of the continent's supply, a figure expected to rise to half within five years, according to the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organised Crime (GI-TOC).

ICC Convicts Sudan Militia Leader For Atrocities In Darfur

ICC Convicts Sudan Militia Leader for Atrocities in Darfur Darfur / Sudan The International Criminal Court (ICC) on Monday, in a landmark ruling, convicted the first Janjaweed militia leader for atrocities committed over two decades ago in Sudan’s Darfur region, Reuters reported. The court unanimously found Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-Al-Rahman guilty on 27 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity, including rape, murder, and persecution, and rejected his defense of mistaken identity. “He (Kushayb) encouraged and gave instructions that resulted in the killings, the rapes and destruction committed by the Janjaweed,” said presiding judge Joanna Korner, adding that he gave orders to “wipe out and sweep away” non-Arab tribes, telling soldiers, “don’t leave anyone behind. Bring no one alive.” His sentence will be handed down at a later time, following a new round of hearings. Abd-Al-Rahman, also known as Ali Kushayb, was a key leader of the Janjaweed, a government-backed militia that terrorized the Darfur region and killed hundreds of thousands of people, the BBC wrote. His conviction represents a historic moment for the ICC – concluding the first and only trial over crimes committed in Sudan. The case was brought to the court by the United Nations Security Council in 2005, and the trial began three years ago. The 2003-2020 conflict in Darfur began when the then-government of Sudan mobilized mostly Arab militias, known as the Janjaweed, to end an armed revolt by rebels from Black African ethnic groups, who accused the state of marginalizing them. Human rights groups have alleged that the violence that followed amounted to genocide and ethnic cleansing against the non-Arabic population in the region. Following Monday’s ruling, victims of the conflict said the verdict had restored some faith in the ICC after the length of time it took to conclude this case. During the trial, survivors recounted how their villages were set on fire and their males slaughtered, and how women were forced into sex slavery. Meanwhile, there are outstanding arrest warrants for other Sudanese officials, including former President Omar al-Bashir, who is wanted on charges of genocide, which he denies. Bashir, who was ousted in a coup in 2019, is reportedly in military custody in northern Sudan. Fighting restarted in Sudan in 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces – the latter originating from the Janjaweed – resulting in ethnically-driven killings and mass displacement. The UN said the conflict created the world’s worst humanitarian crisis.

Madagascar: Protests Erupt Over Power Outages And Water Shortages

Protests Over Power Blackouts Escalate in Madagascar Madagascar Hundreds of protesters clashed with security forces in Madagascar’s capital Saturday, as demonstrations over chronic power and water shortages entered their third day, killing at least five people and triggering widespread looting, Le Monde reported. On Saturday, demonstrators filled the streets of the capital of Antananarivo, carrying placards reading “We are poor, angry and unhappy” and “Madagascar is ours,” while security forces blocked their attempt to march toward the city center. The youth-led protests began Thursday, a day after authorities banned a planned demonstration over ongoing water and power cuts in the impoverished country. But the protests quickly devolved into violence as police used rubber bullets and tear gas, while students and young workers blocked roads in the capital with rocks and burning tires. There were reports of looting of shops and attacks on banks. Local media said a number of cable car stations were set ablaze and three homes belonging to politicians allied with President Andry Rajoelina were attacked. Authorities later imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew to restore order, Al Jazeera added. In an effort to appease protesters, Rajoelina announced the dismissal of his energy minister “for not doing his job” late last week. Even so, the president branded the protests as an attempted “coup d’état.” Despite the minister’s removal, protest organizers have called for demonstrations to continue and accused security forces of excessive force and a failure to prevent looting, Africanews wrote. Madagascar, a nation of about 30 million people, remains mired in poverty, with the World Bank estimating that 75 percent of the population was living below the poverty line in 2022.

Sudan: A Gold Rush Precludes Peace

The War Dividend: In Sudan’s Civil War, a Gold Rush Precludes Peace Sudan When war erupted in Sudan’s capital in April 2023, Zainab Aamer faced an impossible choice: stay and risk death, or flee into unknown danger. Aamer, a widow and mother of six, had worked as a nurse in Khartoum before she decided to leave, becoming one of more than 12 million internal refugees in what the United Nations calls the world’s largest displacement crisis. “I had to protect my daughters,” she said, recounting the perilous 500-mile journey to Port Sudan on the coast that cost her eldest son his life. For the internally displaced like Aamer, the announcement in September by the group known as the “Quad” – the United States, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates – of a proposal for a three-month truce and a permanent peace should bring some hope for the future. But it likely won’t, say analysts. That’s because this conflict is not just about power and territory and tribes – it’s about gold, which means it’s too lucrative a war for its key players to want peace. “The gold trade connects Sudan’s civil war to the wider region and highlights the roles that commodities play in perpetuating violent conflict,” wrote the British think tank, Chatham House. “The multi-billion-dollar trade of gold sustains and shapes Sudan’s conflict. This commodity is the most significant source of income for the warring parties, feeding an associated cross-border network of actors including other armed groups, producers, traders, smugglers, and external governments.” In 2019, Sudan saw a popular revolution that ousted longtime dictator Omar al-Bashir, who was in power for 30 years. Afterward, a transitional civilian council took over the country before being deposed by another military coup in 2021. Afterward, as protesters fought for a transition to democracy, power struggles grew between the army commander leading the country, Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), and his deputy, Muhammad Hamdan Dagalo (known as Hemedti), head of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a militia that arose out of the Janjaweed terror group in the Darfur region that killed thousands of people there in the 1980s. In April 2023, war broke out over the integration of the two forces. In the two years since, the fight has killed about 150,000 people. Both sides have to date rejected moves toward peace. In August, Burhan said he would “defeat this rebellion.” Hemedti, who was sworn in as head of a parallel government in April, says he represents Sudan’s future with “a broad civilian coalition that represents the true face of Sudan.” Meanwhile, they have carved up the country and its resources among themselves. The SAF controls the north, the east, the capital of Khartoum, and Sennar state in the south. The RSF controls parts of the south and center and most of the west of the country, where it is fighting for control of El-Fasher, its last stronghold in the resource-rich Darfur region. Elsewhere in the country, there are other rebel groups and tribal militias holding on to smaller fiefdoms, fighting one or both parties. And both profit from, and are supported by, the production of gold, which is increasing in the country: Last year, Sudan’s state-owned Mineral Resources Company reported gold production hit 64 tons in 2024, up from 41.8 tons in 2022. Along with the increase in production, the value of gold gained 27 percent in 2024, capping a decade in which it has more than doubled in value. In the first six months of this year, gold’s value increased by a further 24 percent. Both the RSF and the SAF are not only deeply involved in the production of gold in the areas they control, but even work together to harvest the riches and smuggle them out of the country, said analysts. As a result, foreign powers have created “networks of dependency” through gold smuggling, with “Dubai already serving as the primary destination for gold smuggled by militias,” wrote Noria Research in a recent analysis. “Regional powers currently intervening in Sudan do view the country as the site for national interests, but in the manner that 19th-century colonial powers viewed Africa.” And a weak Sudan, one in a state of civil war, makes stealing its resources far simpler, it added, because “a unified state cannot assert sovereignty to any meaningful degree… This is a much simpler task than navigating a constellation of bureaucrats, judges, businessmen, politicians, and civil society, as would be the case were Sudan made whole again.” The UAE is the key foreign player in Sudan but far from the only one. The SAF has received weaponry and financial support from Russia’s Africa Corps (formerly the Wagner Group of mercenaries), Turkey, Iran, Egypt, and Qatar, among others. The RSF has received support from the UAE and those it has influence over, including Kenya, Uganda, Libya – via Khalifa Haftar – and Ethiopia. As a result, analysts say what has developed in the region is a broader regional gold economy with a constellation of war-torn countries such as Libya, the Central African Republic, and the Democratic Republic of Congo revolving around the UAE: Almost half of all exported African gold flows there, where its origins are scrubbed before being sold. For the UAE, it’s not just about the riches, but about power in the region, food security, and a return on its investment, say analysts. “The UAE has emerged as the foreign player most invested in the war,” wrote May Darwich of the University of Birmingham, in the Conversation, noting the country’s more than $6 billion in investment into Sudan. “It views resource-rich, strategically located Sudan as an opportunity to expand its influence and control in the Middle East and east Africa.” The UAE also recruits mercenaries from Sudan, for example, for its fight in Yemen. Emirati officials have repeatedly denied the UAE’s involvement in Sudan, claiming its neutrality. But US officials have blasted the country for its involvement in the war and for sustaining the conflict. Meanwhile, as gold continues to flow out of Sudan, its warring parties have yet to respond to the proposal by the Quad. That means more waiting for the dividends of peace for children like Sondos, 8, who, with her family, fled to yet another refugee camp because of repeated RSF attacks on El-Fasher, the capital of Sudan’s North Darfur state, and its refugee camps of Zamzam and Abu Shouk. Famine is growing in the region due to a blockade by the militia, the UN says. We had no choice but to leave, Sondos says: “There was only hunger and bombs.” Share this story

Zimbia: Casting A Spell: Attempted Murder of the President By Witchcraft

Casting a Spell: Attempted Murder of the President By Witchcraft Rivets Zambians Zambia In mid-September, a Zambian court sentenced two men to two years of hard labor in prison for attempting to kill Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema – with sorcery. The charges stem from an incident in December when a hotel cleaner in Zambia’s capital of Lusaka reported strange noises coming from a room. The two men were arrested after items such as a live chameleon, a mysterious white powder, a red cloth, and the tail of an unidentified animal were found among their possessions. Afterward, the two men – one a Mozambican national and traditional healer, Jasten Mabulesse Candunde, and the other, a Zambian village chief, Leonard Phiri – were accused of being “witchdoctors” and were charged under Zambia’s Witchcraft Act with “possession of charms,” “professing knowledge of witchcraft,” and “cruelty to wild animals.” Police say the two had been promised more than $73,000 by a political opponent of the president to bewitch Hichilema in a case that has gripped the nation. Many Zambians take witchcraft very seriously: A study by the Zambia Law Development Commission in 2018 found that 79 percent of Zambians believed in witchcraft. The criminal justice system also takes it seriously. In Zambia, under a colonial-era law, those found guilty of witchcraft face a fine or up to two years in jail, with the possibility of hard labor. However, witchcraft cases have been difficult to prosecute in the country because of difficulties in collecting evidence or finding credible witnesses. This case was also tricky for prosecutors, who say the pair were hired by Nelson Banda, the brother of independent lawmaker Emmanuel “Jay Jay” Banda, to do harm to the president. Banda, who is facing trial for robbery, attempted murder, and escaping custody, was previously associated with former President Edgar Lungu from the opposition Patriotic Front (PF) party – Lungu lost the presidency to Hichilema in 2021. The PF called the accusations against Banda politically motivated, while others alleged it was a stunt by Hichilema, who faces reelection next year. The president, who himself was accused of witchcraft by a past Zambian president a decade ago, has not commented on the case. Some local media, however, blasted it. “The president has nothing substantive to ride on to kick-start his second-term campaign – what better distraction from the economic crisis we face than a live viewing of a trial of ‘witches’ in the postmodern era,” wrote the Lusaka Times in an editorial. “Knowing Zambians fear witchcraft more than gunfire, the president hopes to score a major win. But the truth is…this trial will only expose him as a desperate figure, pleading for public sympathy while the whole world laughs at him.” Still, the trial sparked huge interest in the country and highlighted the impact of the belief in witchcraft in the country. In Zambia, for example, there are “witch camps” where those accused of sorcery, usually elderly women, are placed if they have survived the accusations in their communities. There, residents live in inhumane conditions, say activists, and almost never return to their communities. Often, the women sit behind a fence, posing for tourists, often tied with ribbons to prevent them from flying away. These so-called witch camps exist around the region, including in Mozambique, Tanzania, Malawi, and Ghana, where belief in witches is deeply ingrained and goes back centuries. “The issue is persistent because of local beliefs,” Amnesty International West Africa researcher Michèle Eken told Newsweek. “It starts with a simple accusation…It can be because someone died in the village, and they are accused of being responsible. Or, tragically, the accusation can come from someone who has a debt to repay and does not want to pay it back or someone who wants their house/goods.” While activists and some governments have tried to stop the stigma and punishment, other places in Africa, such as The Gambia, have carried out state-sponsored witch hunts in the past two decades. Some, meanwhile, believe it is time to do away with the Zambian law that criminalizes witchcraft: It dates to 1914 when Zambia was part of the British “sphere of influence,” and does not reflect the country today culturally, they say. “Traditional Zambian societies and individuals believe in a strong relationship between the human world and the supernatural,” Gankhanani Moyo of the University of Zambia told the Associated Press. “I hate that colonial piece of legislation that attempts to outlaw a practice that it does not understand.” Share this story

South Africa: Two Hikers Rescued From Cape Town's Iconic Trails

Two hikers rescued from Cape Town’s most iconic trails Wilderness Search And Rescue teams were called into action following two separate hiking accidents on Cape Town’s most popular trails. Author picture By Garrin Lambley 21-09-25 19:03 in News WSAR Wilderness Search And Rescue teams were called into action following two separate hiking accidents on Cape Town’s most popular trails. Image: WSAR Facebook Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) teams were called into action this weekend following two separate hiking accidents on Cape Town’s most popular trails, as warmer weather continues to draw large numbers of outdoor enthusiasts to the mountains. According to WSAR spokesperson David Nel, the uptick in callouts is directly linked to the improved weather conditions. He urged hikers to exercise caution, particularly in areas made slippery by recent rainfall. ADVERTISEMENT “It’s heartening to see so many people returning to the trails,” said Nel. “But we urge all outdoor enthusiasts to remain cautious. Recent rainfall has left some sections of the mountain wet and slippery, increasing the risk of slips and falls.” Lion’s Head Rescue The first incident occurred mid-morning on Saturday on Lion’s Head, where a 36-year-old woman injured her ankle after slipping near the staples section of the descent trail. WSAR teams responded swiftly, and a Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS paramedic treated the hiker at the scene. She was assisted down the mountain and safely transported from the area by 12:22. Platteklip Gorge Air Rescue Later in the afternoon, a second emergency unfolded on Platteklip Gorge, a popular ascent route up Table Mountain. ADVERTISEMENT A 25-year-old hiker fell a short distance down the trail and was unable to continue due to injury. WSAR teams accessed the scene via the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, before trekking across the summit and descending to reach the injured hiker. A rescue helicopter operated by the Air Mercy Service (AMS) was also deployed. After being stabilised by an EMS paramedic, the patient was hoisted off the mountain and flown to a nearby landing zone before being transported to hospital by ambulance. The rescue operation concluded shortly after 18:00. “These rescues are a testament to the dedication, passion and teamwork of our volunteers and emergency medical personnel,” said Nel. “We wish both patients a speedy and full recovery.” Hiking Safety Reminder Save the emergency number: 021 937 0300 Be cautious: trails may be slippery after rain Plan your hikes in advance Support WSAR here WSAR is a volunteer-based network supported by government agencies and civilian organisations, dedicated to search and rescue operations in the Western Cape’s rugged terrain. 'The South African' is hiring! 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South African Police Bust Illicit Meth Lab And Arrest 5 North Americns

South African police bust illicit meth lab, arrest 5 North Americans By Kerry Breen, 1 days ago Officials in South Africa discovered $20 million worth of illicit drugs at a farm being used as a methamphetamine lab and arrested five North American citizens, according to a news release shared Saturday. The South African Police Service received a tip-off about suspicious activities on a farm in Oudehoutkloof, Volksrust, about 150 miles from Johannesburg in the nation's Mpumalanga province. The person who submitted the tip reported "a strange chemical smell emanating from the premises," according to the police service. When officials searched the farm, they found precursor chemicals used to make drugs, manufacturing equipment, a pellet gun loaded with blanks, and three live 9 millimeter rounds held by a farm caretaker. Police also found about $20 million worth of crystal meth, packed in buckets and lunchboxes. The containers were stored in freezers, police said. Photos shared by the South African Police Service on social media show multiple containers and large machinery. Containers of meth found in an illicit lab in South Africa. South African Police Service Five suspects were taken into custody after attempting to flee on foot. All five were from a North American country, but the police did not say which nation they were from. They were in the country illegally, police said. All five face possible drug and immigration-related charges, police said. The farm caretaker is South African. Police said he was arrested and faces possible charges for possession of ammunition. All six suspects in custody are expected to appear before court soon, police said. Two other suspects, believed to be from West African countries, fled into nearby bushes and avoided capture, the police service said. Large machinery found at an illicit drug lab in South Africa. South African Police Service The drug lab is being dismantled, police said in the news release. Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, the acting provincial commissioner of the South African Police Service, said the operation is "a step in the right direction" to "rid the streets of Mpumalanga of all types of drugs." A 2022 report described South Africa as one of the largest crystal meth consumer markets in the world, according to CBS News partner BBC News. Last year, police discovered another large meth lab in a remote farm area. The discovery led to the arrest of two South Africans and three Mexican suspects. Police seized $100 million worth of precursor chemicals and illicit drugs.

Malawi Goes To The Polls In Rematch Vote

Election Recycling: Malawi Goes to the Polls in Rematch Vote Malawi On Sept. 16, Malawi’s voters will go to the polls to elect their new president. It’s essentially a rerun of the country’s last election, in 2019-2020, with incumbent President Lazarus Chakwera of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) facing off against his predecessor, former President Arthur Peter Mutharika of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). This time, however, Malawians say they hope to get it right. “President Lazarus Chakwera’s first term has fallen short on human rights, defined by broken promises in relation to the economy and living standards, impunity and civic space,” said Amnesty International’s regional director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah. In the last election, Chakwera challenged Mutharika in 2019 and initially lost. But the country’s top court annulled the decision, forcing a rematch that Chakwera won. At the time, the turnabout was hailed as an example of democracy’s triumph. The Economist tapped Malawi as 2020’s Country of the Year. Then US-President Joe Biden called Malawi a “democratic bright spot.” Foreign assistance followed. That promise has since fizzled, however. “Economic turmoil, natural disasters, and the shock death of the nation’s vice-president,” followed Chakwera’s inauguration, the BBC wrote, referring to a terrible cyclone, horrible droughts, and the death of the late Saulos Chilima in a plane crash. Despite investigations that yielded no signs of foul play, many Malawians suspect Chilima died because he was especially popular among otherwise disaffected youth and therefore may have challenged Chakwera. Other than Chakwera introducing train services after more than 30 years after their shutdown and commencing major road projects, many voters haven’t seen an improvement in their living conditions, government services, or job prospects, analysts say. Instead, consumer prices have spiked, unemployment remains high, and corruption and nepotism continue to grow in one of the world’s poorest countries. Malawians appear ready to turn back the clock in part because of their great disappointment with Chakwera’s administration, World Politics Review explained. “The assumption among many observers was that the democratic triumph that brought Chakwera to office and the momentum it generated would create the political will to address corruption, governance, health care, and other challenges that have plagued Malawi since before its independence,” it wrote. “Five years later, however, most socioeconomic conditions and virtually all governance indicators in Malawi remain unchanged.” “Chakwera has wasted Malawi’s democratic breakthrough,” it added. Mutharika, who served from 2014 to 2020, faces some challenges, too. At 85, many Malawians fear he is too old and frail to oversee the gargantuan task of turning the country around. He failed, for instance, to show up for an event designed to instill confidence among voters about the transparency of the upcoming ballot, according to Malawi’s Nyasa Times. Still, the country’s human rights activists hope that Malawi’s election will create an opportunity for a newly elected president and parliament to improve the country’s record on freedom of expression, association, and other civil liberties. The Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops agreed, exhorting voters to reject corrupt politicians who have failed to protect civil rights or enact economic reforms that might have helped one of the world’s poorest countries, reported Christian Daily, noting that Malawian politicians frequently raise money for religious institutions in exchange for political endorsements. A Christian group called the Pastors’ Voice, meanwhile, is backing Mutharika, saying that he provided more stability and progress, added Malawi24. Some say these elections are likely to be one of the most consequential in the country’s recent history. Others are just settling for the least bad option. “President Lazarus Chakwera, who rose to power in 2020 as a symbol of hope… has since become a disappointment to many Malawians,” wrote South Africa’s Mail & Guardian newspaper. “Over the past few years, Chakwera’s government has increasingly followed the same troubling patterns of its predecessor, the DPP…of bad governance… This has left many Malawians feeling betrayed by a government they once believed would bring transformative change.” At this point, the newspaper added, “Malawi electorate’s only option is to recycle a president.” Share this story

South Africa: Trial Begins For Three Accused Of Stealing $580,000 Hidden In Couch At South African President's Farm

Trial begins for 3 accused of stealing $580,000 hidden in couch at South Africa president's farm By Michelle Gumede, 7 hours ago South Africa-Cash Scandal-Explainer Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. Three people went on trial in South Africa on Monday after being charged with housebreaking and stealing $580,000 in U.S. banknotes hidden in a couch at a game farm owned by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The strange case mired Ramaphosa in scandal and almost cost him his job after he was accused of tax evasion, money laundering and breaching foreign currency laws. He was also accused of trying to hide the existence of the money because the alleged theft happened in 2020, but was only revealed two years later. The case has been dubbed “farmgate” in South Africa. Ramaphosa, who campaigned on an anti-corruption ticket, was cleared of wrongdoing and survived a vote in Parliament over whether impeachment charges should be brought against him, but he is still under scrutiny over why such a large amount of money was stashed in a piece of furniture. Cash in a couch Ramaphosa has said the money came from the legitimate sale of animals at his Phala Phala game and livestock farm in the northern province of Limpopo, but hasn't explained why it was stashed in a couch. The three defendants, two men and a woman who was a cleaner at the farm, are accused of breaking in and stealing the money in February 2020. They pleaded not guilty to the charges on the opening day of the trial on Monday. The spy boss The case came to light when the former head of the state security agency walked into a police station in June 2022 and filed a complaint against Ramaphosa. The spy boss, Arthur Fraser, accused Ramaphosa of hiding $4 million in the couch and using his personal police security detail to track down the thieves and bribe them to keep quiet about the money. Ramaphosa and authorities disputed the amount of $4 million. Fraser claimed to have provided the police with “supporting evidence” in the form of pictures, videos and bank account information linked to the alleged theft. Fraser's role in the scandal also became a source of intrigue because he is an ally of former President Jacob Zuma, the man Ramaphosa succeeded as president and his fierce political rival. Zuma was forced to resign as president in 2018 because of corruption allegations and has been critical of Ramaphosa since. The president's scandal The case sent allegations of corruption against Ramaphosa swirling. While investigations by the police and the country’s financial authorities cleared him of wrongdoing, he still needed his party’s majority in Parliament to block a move to impeach him in December 2022. Ramaphosa denied that he tried to hide the alleged theft from police and said he reported it to the head of his police protection unit. Three years after the scandal first broke, the trial of the three suspects is expected to be closely watched for any role the president had in the affair. Ramaphosa was reelected for a second term last year, although only after his long-ruling African National Congress party lost its 30-year majority and had to form a coalition government. The court case The trial of defendants Imanuwela David, Ndilinasho Joseph and his sister Froliana Joseph has been delayed several times, including for Froliana Joseph to give birth. They are all charged with housebreaking, conspiracy to commit housebreaking and theft. David also faces money laundering charges. Prosecutors expect the trial to run for three weeks and say they will call 20 witnesses, including staff members who worked at Ramaphosa's farm. ___ More AP Africa news: https://apnews.com/hub/africa

Africa: Pre Historic Commutes

Prehistoric Commutes Humanity’s ancestors were forced to make long commutes long before the modern-day rush hour, according to a new study. A research team recently found that ancient toolmakers in East Africa were trekking miles to collect the right rocks for their gear, a finding that pushes back evidence of long-distance resource transport by some 600,000 years. The discovery comes from Nyayanga, a site along Kenya’s Lake Victoria, where archeologists have uncovered thousands of Oldowan tools dating back at least 2.6 million years. These tools consisted of sharp flakes and pounding stones used for processing plants, butchering animals, and even smashing open hippo bones. But the real surprise came when researchers traced their origins. Local rock around Nyayanga is relatively soft and not suitable for making durable tools. However, many of the collected artifacts were made from sturdy volcanic rhyolite and quartzite rock carried in from deposits up to eight miles away. “People often focus on the tools themselves, but the real innovation of the Oldowan may actually be the transport of resources from one place to another,” senior author Rick Potts explained in a press release. “The knowledge and intent to bring stone material to rich food sources was apparently an integral part of toolmaking behavior at the outset of the Oldowan.” Potts added that this behavior suggests early humans had the ability to plan ahead, map their surroundings, and remember where high-quality rocks could be found – which the authors described as a major cognitive leap. The discovery also raises questions about who exactly was doing the heavy lifting. Excavations at Nyayanga turned up two teeth from Paranthropus, a close evolutionary relative in the Homo genus – which includes modern humans – known for its massive jaws and teeth for chewing tough plants, according to Science News. Whether Paranthropus or early members of Homo carried the stones remains unclear, however. “Unless you find a hominin fossil actually holding a tool, you won’t be able to say definitively which species are making which stone tool assemblages,” noted lead author Emma Finestone. Still, she noted that the findings suggest “that there is a greater diversity of hominins making early stone tools than previously thought.” Other researchers praised the study, with archaeologist Manuel Domínguez-Rodrigo telling Science News that the Nyayanga discovery is “the oldest documented case of long-distance transportation of raw materials.”

South African Men Win The Right To Take Wive's Last Name

South African Men Win Right To Take Wives’ Last Names South Africa South Africa’s Constitutional Court ruled that husbands are allowed to take the last names of their wives, overturning a law that prohibited them from doing so, which the court deemed to be gender-based discrimination, the BBC reported. According to South African law, women, but not men, have had the automatic right to change their last names after marriage, divorce or widowhood. Men, however, had to apply to the Director-General of Home Affairs for such a change. The court said this rule was unconstitutional, SABC News wrote. The case arose after plaintiff, Henry van der Merwe, was forbidden from taking the last name of his wife, Jana Jordaan, while another party to the case, Andreas Nicolas Bornman, was forbidden from hyphenating his surname to include Donnelly, the surname of his wife, Jess Donnelly-Bornman. The two couples filed legal action and won in the lower court but the decision needed confirmation by the country’s high court for the change to be able to take effect. The two couples argued that the law was outdated and patriarchal, saying it violated the equality clause enshrined in the constitution by generating unnecessary gender distinctions. They added that while the provision might originally have been designed to ease administrative procedures for women, it now served “to entrench stereotypical assumptions about the roles of men and women within a family structure.” Parliament will now need to amend the law for the change to become final.

Africans Are Being Pressured To Accept Deported Migrants-Some Aren't Happy About It

Africans Are Being Pressured To Accept Deported Migrants – Some Aren’t Happy About It Africa Recently, the first of 250 migrants who tried to move illegally to the United States were deported to the central African country of Rwanda. Rwandan officials say they accepted them because they understand their situation. “Rwanda has agreed with the United States to accept up to 250 migrants, in part because nearly every Rwandan family has experienced the hardships of displacement, and our societal values are founded on reintegration and rehabilitation,” Rwandan government spokesperson, Yolande Makolo, told Reuters. “Those approved (for resettlement) will be provided with workforce training, healthcare, and accommodation support to jumpstart their lives in Rwanda, giving them the opportunity to contribute to one of the fastest-growing economies in the world over the last decade.” Still, countries that accept migrants from the US and elsewhere are being compensated for their trouble: The program, part of President Donald Trump’s pledge to prevent illegal immigration in the US, is also an example of a booming new business. As the BBC reported, numerous developing countries worldwide have agreed to take migrants from wealthier nations that have chosen to pay others to handle those individuals who have left their homes in search of safety or better economic opportunities. For example, El Salvador has imprisoned Venezuelan citizens deported from the US. American taxpayers paid the country around $6 million for the resettlement, according to National Public Radio. The US has also expelled individuals to Eswatini and South Sudan, the latter a war-torn nation on the brink of another war. Lawyers for those individuals have complained that they have been thrown in jail in their new host countries without due process and live in dire conditions. Some are being deported even when their countries of origin are willing to take them back. For example, Jamaican national Orville Etoria was “inexplicably and illegally” sent to Eswatini when Jamaica said it would accept him back, the New York-based Legal Aid Society told the Los Angeles Times. Etoria and other men from Laos and Vietnam have been refused visitation by their local attorneys. Rwanda hasn’t disclosed how much the US has paid to accept the migrants. But the US recently paid the country $100,000 to take a single Iraqi deportee. The US isn’t alone in its offshoring. Australia is paying the tiny Oceanic nation of Nauru $267 million in a lump sum as well as $46 million annually to take migrants, the Associated Press noted. Three years ago, the United Kingdom attempted to send asylum seekers to Rwanda. The plan fizzled, however, after British courts found that it violated human rights laws. The British spent hundreds of millions of dollars on the plan. Now, Rwandan officials insist they are not required to pay the money back. British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is now thinking of new ways to offshore migrants, according to a London School of Economics blog. Meanwhile, Italy also was forced to pull back from its scheme to deport migrants to Albania for asylum processing after a court ruled it illegal on human rights grounds. Still, Europeans have succeeded in other ways: They are paying Turkey almost $7 billion to process migrants so they might enter the European Union legally, rather than attempting to cross into Greece, where many are now detained in camps. As the International Rescue Committee explained, this arrangement was part of the EU’s response to 1 million migrants seeking to enter the bloc in 2015. Most were from war-torn Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria. Turkey is now forcibly sending many back to their home countries, Politico added. The EU has also created a nearly $6 billion fund to pay Libya and other African countries to hold migrants there rather than letting them take to the Mediterranean Sea to go north, the Guardian reported. Advocates, however, say the conditions are dire for the migrants who get stuck in North Africa. For example, last year, a journalist group forced the EU to admit that its money was allowing African countries to “dump” migrants in the remote parts of the Sahara. Meanwhile, some Africans are not happy with the offshoring plans, saying that the US and other countries are attempting to dump their problems onto African nations and not taking no for an answer. In June, the New York Times reported that the Trump administration had pressured 58 countries, many in Africa, to accept deportees. This “intense diplomatic campaign” targeted nations facing US travel bans, visa restrictions or tariffs, raising concerns that some leaders may comply regardless of whether it serves their country’s interests. The US’ approach reflects a troubling perception of Africa as a “dumping ground” for foreign nationals convicted of violent crimes, said Al Jazeera, creating anger on the continent. Analyst Chris Ogunmodede told the news outlet that countries like South Sudan and Eswatini, with no geopolitical heft, can easily be bullied into compliance by larger nations. Analysts say this campaign has deep repercussions for Africa. “The deportations have deepened public distrust in host country governments. Secrecy surrounding the deals exacerbates instability in both (Eswatini and South Sudan), which are already burdened by violence, instability, and crackdowns on pro-democracy movements,” wrote the Institute for Security Studies. “Many citizens believe the US has used aid and trade to pressure South Sudan and Eswatini into compliance and gain favor with the Trump administration, triggering fears over what was promised in exchange.” At least one country has said no. Regional heavyweight Nigeria was asked by the US to take Venezuelan deportees, some straight out of prison, according to Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar. The country turned down the request. “The US is mounting considerable pressure on African countries to accept (deportees),” he said, speaking on a Nigerian talk show. “For crying out loud, we already have 230 million people, the very same people that would castigate us if we accepted (the deportees).” Meanwhile, he added, “We have enough problems of our own.”

South Africa: 7 Chinese Sentenced To 20 Years Each For Trafficking and Forced Labor

7 Chinese sentenced to 20 years each for trafficking and forced labor in South Africa By Mogomotsi Magome, 13 hours ago South Africa-Chinese-Trafficking Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. A court in Johannesburg sentenced seven Chinese nationals on Wednesday to terms of 20 years in prison each for trafficking people from Malawi and forcing them to work at a factory in South Africa. The group was convicted on Feb. 25 of trafficking 91 undocumented Malawian nationals from 2017 to 2019 to work at a cotton fabric factory in Village Deep, an industrial area in the south of Johannesburg. The Chinese nationals had been arrested on Nov. 12, 2019 when police raided the factory and found the Malawians confined under inhumane conditions with armed guards controlling their movements. The factory had a high wall and razor fence. Court records listed the defendants as Shu-Uei Tsao, 42; Biao Ma, 50; Hui Chen, 50; Quin Li, 56; Zhou Jiaquing, 46; Junying Dai, 58; and Zhilian Zhang, 51. They all were sentenced in Gauteng South Division Court to 20 years after being convicted of human trafficking and breaking the country’s labor and immigration laws. Prosecutors had sought life sentences. They said the victims were forced to work 11-hour shifts, seven days a week, without proper training or safety equipment. Many had previously worked at Chinese-owned factories in Malawi, and were recruited to go to South Africa under false pretenses, the prosecutors said. During the trial, the victims described harsh conditions, including being transported in windowless trucks to the factory, where they were not allowed to leave. They were also forced to work on holidays and were prohibited from bringing in outside food. Personal communication was banned, and they were made to operate defective machines without protective gear, leading to accidents, they said.

Cameroon: Two US Citizens Indicted for Bombings and Kidnappings Through Separatist Militia Operations

DOJ: Two U.S. citizens used Minnesota as base for overseas kidnappings and bombings Minnesota residents accused of funding bombings and kidnappings through separatist militia operations Alexandra Koch By Alexandra Koch Fox News Published September 6, 2025 3:42pm EDT Facebook Twitter Flipboard Comments Print Email close Grapevine: Will Cameroon be evicted from DC embassy? NEW You can now listen to Fox News articles! Listen to this article 3 min A federal grand jury in Minnesota has indicted two naturalized U.S. citizens from the Republic of Cameroon, alleging they orchestrated kidnappings, bombings and killings in their native country. Benedict Nwana Kuah, 51, and Pascal Kikishy Wongbi, 52, were arrested Friday morning in the District of Minnesota and face additional charges of conspiracy to kill, kidnap, maim and injure persons abroad, conspiracy to provide material support or resources and conspiracy to launder monetary instruments, according to the Department of Justice. Kuah is also charged with three counts of providing material support or resources, conspiracy to commit hostage-taking and conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction outside the U.S. The men made their initial appearances and are being held in custody pending detention hearings scheduled for Sept. 10 and Sept. 11. A Cameroon trooper, right, stands next to an ambulance that was used to carry victims of a train that crashed on Friday in Eseka, Cameroon, Saturday, Oct. 22, 2016. Rescue workers dug through the rubble Saturday in search of more injured and dead after a train traveling between two major cities in Cameroon derailed in Eseka, killing scores of people according to rescue workers and hospital staff. The alleged attacks happened in Cameroon, a country in Central Africa. (The Associated Press) SELF-PROCLAIMED 'APOSTLE' WHO CLAIMS TO BE JESUS' BEST FRIEND ARRESTED IN FORCED LABOR SCHEME Kuah and Wongbi allegedly held leadership roles in the Ambazonia Defense Forces (ADF), a separatist militia seeking to create an independent country in Cameroon, according to the indictment. The pair allegedly used their positions to raise money and finance the purchase of weapons and directed co-conspirators in Cameroon to kidnap, bomb and kill civilians, government officials and members of the security forces to intimidate civilians and coerce the Cameroonian government into recognizing their legitimacy. Starting in 2017, the two men allegedly sent thousands of dollars to co-conspirators in Cameroon for weapons and explosives, directing attacks that killed, injured or kidnapped civilians, according to the indictment. In 2022, fighters kidnapped a government official and released propaganda videos. In this photo taken on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2015, Cameroon soldiers stand guard at a lookout post as they take part in operations against the Islamic extremist group Boko Haram near the village of Mabass, Cameroon. Cameroon officials say prisons are overcrowded with suspected Islamic extremists whose insurgency has spilled from Nigeria. The pair allegedly sent thousands of dollars to co-conspirators in Cameroon for weapons and explosives and directed attacks that left civilians dead, injured or taken hostage. (

Kenya Stops Exhumations At Cult Site After Finding Remains

Kenya Stops Exhumations at Cult Site After Finding Remains Kenya Authorities in Kenya have suspended exhumations at a suspected doomsday cult site after discovering new remains near where hundreds of bodies linked to a cult were found two years ago, the Associated Press reported. The latest exhumations at Chakama Ranch in Kilifi County, in southeastern Kenya, uncovered 34 new bodies and more than 100 body parts, Africanews noted. Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja said a multi-agency team was investigating the circumstances that led to the deaths. Eleven suspects were arrested a month ago after a woman reported the deaths of her children. The investigation is ongoing. Authorities are analyzing money transfers to the suspects’ phones from individuals they suspect of funding the operation. Police said the cult members rented homes in the town of Malindi, on Kenya’s western coast, before moving to the remote Chakama Ranch area, where they built mud huts next to where the shallow graves were found. This marks the second instance where bodies have been uncovered in the area, which has been linked to cult activities. Two years ago, the remains of more than 400 followers of a doomsday cult were found near preacher Paul Mackenzie’s Good News International Church in the Shakahola area, about 1.2 miles from where the new remains were found. Mackenzie is in custody on murder charges. The discovery sent shockwaves across Kenya. According to the police, the new remains were found during the regrouping of the cult by former members. The number of missing remains is unclear.

Eswatini Is Accepting US Deportees

In this week’s Analysing Africa newsletter John McDermott, The Economist’s Chief Africa correspondent, wrote about how the continent is handling the deportees that America is sending. Here is an abridged version. For more reporting on and analysis of Africa, sign up to the newsletter. I first heard of the Matsapha Correctional Complex, a prison in Eswatini, when two MPs were jailed on what human-rights groups say are spurious charges. As both were arrested for participating in and supporting pro-democracy protests, their real offence may have been to challenge the rule of King Mswati III, Africa’s fifth-longest-serving leader. His royal court includes at least 11 wives; courtiers drive Rolls Royces while most of his 1.2m subjects live in poverty. In Matsapha at least one of the MPs is said to have been beaten and deprived of food and medical care. The prison is in the news again because it houses five migrants sent by America as part of Donald Trump’s increasingly theatrical and aggressive deportation policy. The autocracy, once known as Swaziland, is one of four African countries, alongside South Sudan, Uganda and Rwanda, that have recently agreed to take deportees. I suspect the appeal to Mr Trump is twofold. First, African deportation deals fire up those in the MAGA base who enjoy performative cruelty towards migrants. Second, they are a deterrent—migrants would rather be sent home than to an African country they know nothing about. But what is in it for African countries? For Eswatini and South Sudan, neither of which has much to offer the world’s most powerful country, it is ad hoc deal-making. Eswatini wants cash (more than $10m to take more than 150 deportees, according to the New York Times) and exemption from high tariffs on sugar exports. South Sudan wants to undo a decision by America in April to bar its citizens from the country and revoke visas that have already been issued. Politicians see taking deportees as a way of getting back into Mr Trump’s good books. And both Rwanda and Uganda have a history of striking deals with larger powers to take in unwanted migrants. African countries’ eagerness to help solve Mr Trump’s migration problems underlines the narrowing of America’s relationship with the continent. For America the policy can be summed up by three Ms: mercantilism, minerals and migrants. African leaders can benefit from appearing to help America in these areas. But I still find it sad that, whereas American diplomats once decried, however inconsistently, the conditions in African prisons, the very grimness of these places is now part of their appeal.

Mocambique: Jihadists Attack Resource Development Projects

Bloody Rich: Mozambique Sees Resurgence of Militant Attacks As It Tries To Develop Its Resources Mozambique Fifty years after Mozambique gained independence from Portugal, the southeast African country is struggling to contain surging jihadist violence in its northern coastal Cabo Delgado province. In August, Islamic State-affiliated militants known as al-Shabaab attacked eight districts in Cabo Delgado. Seeking to install their harsh version of Sharia law and seize the region’s natural gas reserves and ruby mines, the militants have attacked villages, fought Mozambican troops, and set up roadblocks on back roads to extort resources from travelers. Christian drivers stopped at these roadblocks must pay tolls to pass or face capture. The United States-based Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI) warned that the Islamic State fighters were also beheading Christians and burning down churches and schools, calling the tragic situation a “silent genocide.” “What we see in Africa today is a kind of silent genocide or silent, brutal, savage war that is occurring in the shadows and all too often ignored by the international community,” Alberto Miguel Fernandez of MEMRI told Fox News. “That jihadist groups are in a position to take over not one, not two, but several countries in Africa – take over the whole country or most of several countries – is dangerous.” Mozambique has been battling the Islamist insurgents in Cabo Delgado since 2017, struggling to contain the violence, while relying on support from troops sent by Rwanda, South Africa, and other regional partners. In 2020, the insurgents initiated a wave of attacks in which they beheaded dozens of people, including children. Now, observers say there has been a resurgence of attacks and child kidnappings this year, which have been overshadowed by Mozambique’s deadly and long-running post-election protests, recent cyclones, and US cuts to foreign aid.  More than 95,000 people have been displaced due to the violence, the United Nations said. UN officials also warned that the militants were preventing vital humanitarian aid for those who remain. More than 6,000 people have died in the region since 2017. Around a third were civilians. The political dominance of the Liberation Front of Mozambique (FRELIMO), which fought for independence and has run the country since 1975, is one reason why the jihadist problem as well as other issues – poor infrastructure, scant civil institutions, ethnic tensions, extreme inequality and endemic poverty despite tremendous natural resources – persist in the country, argued the French Institute for International and Strategic Affairs. “The persistence of protests and the country’s economic paralysis underscore a revolt that extends beyond electoral disputes,” it wrote. “The opposition has evolved into a broader challenge against a one-party system tainted by repeated corruption scandals in recent years, whose promises of development have left behind a particularly vulnerable population.” When President Daniel Chapo won office last year, defeating Venâncio Mondlane of the Optimist Party for the Development of Mozambique, a party that split off from FRELIMO, for example, voters eager for change took to the streets to protest for months, accusing Chapo of fraud. The government responded with a harsh crackdown, resulting in more than 300 deaths in the demonstrations. In July, the government charged Mondlane with incitement to terrorism. Among the government’s failings over the years is the failure to bring together different parties to figure out how to address the root causes of the jihadism in Cabo Delgado, noted the Center for Strategic Studies. Compensating those who have suffered violence, offering amnesty to those who have run afoul of government officials for expressing their dissident political opinions, and funding more youth initiatives would help defuse the instability in the region, Center researchers argued. Chapo hopes money can help. He recently announced a $40 million, World Bank-supported fund to finance small and medium businesses, reported Al Jazeera. More importantly, Qatar’s Al Mansour Holding recently signed a $20 billion deal to fund energy and agriculture projects, Reuters wrote. But the insurgents are likely not to be defeated that easily, say analysts. As of June, insurgents have kidnapped more than 120 children from the Cabo Delgado province, to ensure their mission goes on: Witnesses told the Associated Press that children abducted from towns and villages have been used as fighters in subsequent attacks. “When al-Shabab fighters enter or attack certain areas, they tend to abduct children,” Augusta Iaquite, coordinator at the Association of Women in Legal Careers in Cabo Delgado, told Human Rights Watch. “They take them to train them and later turn them into their own fighters.” 

Burkina Faso Outlaws Homosexuality

Burkina Faso Outlaws Homosexuality Burkina Faso Burkina Faso’s transitional junta parliament passed a law criminalizing homosexuality and instituting prison sentences of up to five years as punishment this week, the latest African country to impose anti-gay legislation, France 24 reported. The law was unanimously adopted Monday by 71 unelected members of the transitional parliament, in power following two coups in 2022. Justice Minister Edasso Rodrigue Bayala told national broadcaster RTB that homosexual acts are “bizarre behavior” and added that foreign nationals would be deported under the law, Africanews wrote. Officials presented the law, which is part of a broader family and citizenship legislation reform, as a recognition of “marriage and family values,” adding that it will be “popularized through an awareness campaign.” Homosexuality is banned in around 30 African countries, but it was not deemed a criminal act in Burkina Faso before the military seized power through coups they said were meant to stabilize the West African country amid a worsening security crisis. Rights groups, however, have criticized the junta for undermining human rights with widespread arrests and military conscription of critics. Mali, an ally of Burkina Faso and also led by a military government, passed a law banning homosexuality in November 2024. Ghana and Uganda have also recently imposed stricter anti-homosexuality laws. In Uganda, “aggravated homosexuality” is a capital offence, while consensual same-sex relations can be punished with a life sentence. Analysts say that while these laws are widely criticized abroad, they are often popular in African countries where the public is often critical of homosexuality, framing it as a behavior imported from abroad.

Guinea: Its Junta Suspends Opposition Parties Ahead Of Constitutional Referendum

Guinea’s Junta Suspends Opposition Parties Ahead of Constitutional Referendum Guinea Guinea’s military government over the weekend suspended the country’s three main opposition parties, including the party of ousted former President Alpha Condé, ahead of a constitutional referendum that critics warn could help the junta consolidate power, Al Jazeera reported. The order released Saturday names the Rally of the Guinean People, led by Condé; the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea, led by former Prime Minister Cellou Dalein Diallo; and the Party of Renewal and Progress. All three are barred from taking part in any political activity for 90 days. The suspension came as Guinea prepares for mass protests starting Sept. 5 against a constitutional referendum slated for Sept. 21 that opposition parties and civil society groups consider an attempt by junta leader Gen. Mamady Doumbouya to grab further power, according to Africanews. Parties had been allowed to advertise their proposals for a new version of the constitution since Friday. But in a separate order, the junta announced that the start of the election campaign period would be delayed by a week to Aug. 31. Critics say the effort to rewrite the constitution could allow Doumbouya to run for president despite a previous ban established in the “transition charter” drafted by the junta after the 2021 coup that ousted Condé. Such protests have been banned by the military government since 2022, and it has already arrested, prosecuted, or forced into exile a number of opposition leaders. Earlier this year, dozens of other parties were suspended or dissolved for failing to meet new regulations. According to analysts, this new suspension solidifies the conviction of Guinea’s opposition parties that the transitional government was never working to protect democracy, despite Doumbouya’s promises to give more space to political parties and civil society. International rights groups have condemned the junta’s harsh actions, warning that Guinea’s fragile democracy is at risk as the country undergoes this critical transition.