The past week in Africa was marked by significant political, economic, and social developments across various regions. From high-profile diplomatic tensions to judicial rulings and economic advancements, the continent saw a range of stories shaping its trajectory. Below is an updated and detailed news roundup, organized by region, based on available information and insights from recent sources. The stories are presented under regional headings for clarity, with supporting links integrated where relevant.
Southern Africa
Trump’s Oval Office Clash with South African President Over “White Genocide” Claims
A contentious White House meeting on May 21, 2025, between U.S. President Donald Trump and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa dominated headlines. Intended to discuss trade and bilateral relations, the meeting veered off course when Trump accused South Africa of perpetrating a “genocide” against white farmers. He presented misleading evidence, including a Reuters video clip from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) falsely portrayed as showing mass burials of white South Africans, and a video of white crosses along a South African highway, which were part of a 2020 protest memorializing farm murders, not graves. Ramaphosa, joined by Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen and golfers Ernie Els and Retief Goosen, refuted the claims, emphasizing South Africa’s multiparty democracy and denying any genocide. Steenhuisen noted that rural safety issues affect both white and black farmers, citing police data of 26,232 murders last year, with only 23 white farmers killed in farm attacks, per the Transvaal Agricultural Union (TAU). The meeting strained U.S.-South Africa relations, with Trump’s recent granting of refugee status to 59 white South Africans and criticism of land reform policies adding fuel to the fire. South Africans praised Ramaphosa’s composure, though some criticized the diplomatic ambush.
See Also: First Set of Afrikaner Refugees Arrives U.S.
Central Africa
Equatorial Guinea Wins Island Dispute with Gabon at UN Court
On May 24, 2025, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in favour of Equatorial Guinea in a decades-long territorial dispute with Gabon over three oil-rich islands in the Gulf of Guinea, including Mbanié Island. The decision, a significant victory for Equatorial Guinea, could boost its oil and gas sector and reshape resource exploration in the region. Rooted in colonial-era treaties, the dispute had strained bilateral relations. Equatorial Guinea’s government welcomed the ruling, while Gabon has yet to respond publicly. This resolution may influence regional dynamics in Central Africa’s resource-rich Gulf of Guinea.
East Africa
Tanzania Charges Opposition Leader Tundu Lissu with Treason
In Tanzania, opposition leader Tundu Lissu, a vocal critic of the government, faced treason charges on May 24, 2025, in a magistrate’s court. The charges stem from his criticism of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration and alleged incitement during political rallies. Lissu, a prominent Chadema party figure who survived a 2017 assassination attempt, now faces severe penalties, raising alarms about shrinking democratic space in Tanzania. Human rights groups have called for his release, warning that the case could escalate tensions ahead of future elections.
Africa’s Leadership in Honey Production Growth
East Africa, particularly Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania, was recognized on May 20, 2025, as a global leader in honey production growth. This development highlights the region’s agricultural innovation and export potential, boosting rural economies and sustainable development. The growth in honey production underscores East Africa’s role in driving agricultural advancements on the continent.
West Africa
Ivory Coast Denies Military Coup Rumours
On May 24, 2025, the Ivory Coast presidency debunked social media rumors of an impending military coup, urging citizens to rely on official sources. The statement, reported by BBC Africa, aimed to quell fears amid West Africa’s history of recent coups. The government’s swift response sought to maintain stability under President Alassane Ouattara, who faces economic challenges and political opposition.
Nigeria’s Political Tensions: Senator Accuses Top Politician of Assassination Attempt
In Nigeria, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan accused a prominent politician of attempting to assassinate her, as reported on May 22, 2025. The allegation has sparked outrage and demands for an investigation, highlighting Nigeria’s fraught political landscape. Such accusations underscore ongoing challenges in ensuring security and accountability in West African governance.
Burkina Faso’s Ibrahim Traoré Emerges as a Visionary Leader
Burkina Faso’s young leader, Ibrahim Traoré, gained attention last week for his focus on security, economic self-sufficiency, and anti-corruption measures. Seen as a potential visionary for Africa’s future, Traoré’s military background and governance style remain divisive. His leadership is a test case for youth-driven governance in West Africa, with implications for the region’s political evolution.
North Africa
Press Freedom Concerns Across the Region
Press freedom in North Africa faced scrutiny last week, with reports highlighting a decline in media independence in countries like Algeria, Tunisia, and Morocco. Journalists encountered arrests and censorship amid government crackdowns on dissent. These developments, noted by international media watchdogs, raise concerns about democratic backsliding in the region.
Libya’s Stability Threatened by Tripoli Riots
Riots in Tripoli last week threatened Libya’s fragile stability, driven by economic grievances and political rivalries. The unrest underscored the challenges facing Libya’s transitional government as it seeks to unify factions and rebuild infrastructure. International observers have called for dialogue to prevent further escalation in this volatile North African nation.
Continent-Wide Developments
Economic and Business Advancements
Several business developments made waves across Africa last week. The African Development Bank (AfDB) and Germany’s DEG announced initiatives to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in key markets. In Morocco, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) issued green financing for sustainable energy projects. Tullow Oil resumed drilling in Ghana, signaling a revival in West Africa’s oil sector, while the Africa CDC secured a healthcare deal to bolster epidemic preparedness continent-wide. The Africa CEO Forum saw leaders like Rwanda’s Paul Kagame and South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa advocate for African-led solutions, with MTN reporting record profits, highlighting the growth of Africa’s digital economy.