Preparing for the high season in Southern Africa

Sudan remains in a state of strategic stalemate as both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) struggle for control, with neither side gaining a decisive advantage, leading to increasing hunger and displacement among the population. Recent offensives and alliances have failed to shift the balance, while humanitarian aid efforts are hampered by violence and blockades, exacerbating the dire situation for civilians. Need More Context? 🔎

Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni has signed an amendment allowing civilians to be tried in military courts under specific conditions, despite a previous Supreme Court ruling declaring such trials unconstitutional. While the amendment seeks to ensure legal qualifications for tribunal leaders, opposition figures, including Bobi Wine, argue it will be used to target dissenters, raising concerns about the impartiality and fairness of military justice. More Context

Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to tackle a recent surge of violence in Benue state, where over 200 people have been killed in attacks linked to ongoing conflicts between herders and farmers. Despite previous government efforts, the violence has escalated due to environmental stressors and unresolved community tensions, necessitating comprehensive security and economic solutions. More Context

Kenya's deputy police chief, Eliud Lagat, has stepped aside amid investigations into the death of blogger Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody after alleging defamation against Lagat. Initial claims of self-inflicted wounds were retracted following an autopsy indicating assault; pressure from activists for a transparent inquiry continues as the police face scrutiny over extrajudicial deaths. More Context

At least 29 people have died in Kinshasa, DR Congo, due to severe flooding and landslides caused by unprecedented heavy rains during the dry season, affecting a third of the city and leading to widespread power cuts. The government is responding to the crisis, offering condolences and covering funeral expenses, while experts cite climate change and poor urban planning as contributing factors to the disaster. More Context

Temba Bavuma's leadership as South Africa's first black African captain culminated in the team's historic victory, making them World Test champions and marking a significant moment in the nation's post-apartheid sporting transformation. Bavuma emphasized unity and the importance of Test cricket, despite the lack of home matches scheduled, reflecting on the team's character and depth in a celebration of their achievement. More Context