Ramaphosa keeps cool during Trump’s choreographed onslaught

With President Trump prioritizing cost-cutting, U.S. military aid to Africa is shrinking, prompting local forces to shoulder more defense responsibilities against jihadist threats in regions like the Sahel. General Michael Langley emphasizes training and capacity building while indicating a reduction in U.S. military presence, reflecting a significant shift in American strategy towards Africa. More Context

Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu has posthumously pardoned activist Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight others, known as the Ogoni Nine, 30 years after their execution for protesting against oil companies, particularly Shell. While the pardons are seen as a courageous act, activists call for further measures, including a declaration of their innocence and accountability for environmental damage caused by oil companies. More Context

A Kenyan police officer, PC James Mukhwana, has been arrested in connection with the death of blogger Albert Ojwang while in custody, which has led to public protests in Nairobi. An autopsy contradicted police claims of self-inflicted injuries, suggesting assault instead, prompting calls for accountability and a swift investigation into police conduct amidst a troubling history of extrajudicial killings. More Context

All four African teams at the Club World Cup receive a participation fee of $9.55m, significantly less than South American ($15.21m) and European clubs ($12.81m to $38.19m). Despite this disparity, the African Club Association aims to leverage the tournament for greater representation and financial support in future competitions. More Context

The ruling CNDD-FDD party in Burundi won all 100 parliamentary seats in an election criticized by the opposition and Human Rights Watch as a blow to democracy, claiming over 96% of the vote amidst allegations of rigging and intimidation. The electoral commission reported minor irregularities, while the African Union praised the election's transparency, leading to widespread discontent in Bujumbura. More Context

A 14-year-old boy, taken from London to Ghana under false pretenses by his parents due to concerns about criminal influences, has won a Court of Appeal ruling allowing his case against them to be reheard. The court emphasized the importance of considering the child's voice in legal matters, as he feels alienated and desperate to return to the UK. More Context