Africa: Multi-country Outbreak of Cholera, External Situation Report #22 – 24 January 2025

Two South African engineers, Frik Potgieter and Peter Huxham, have returned home after over two years in jail in Equatorial Guinea on disputed drug charges, which the UN deemed arbitrary. They were pardoned following a campaign by their families and the South African government, with their arrest linked to the seizure of luxury assets belonging to the country's vice-president. Need More Context? 🔎

One person died and about 50 were injured when a security barrier collapsed at the 5 July Stadium in Algiers, as fans celebrated MC Alger's league title win after a 0-0 draw with NC Magra. The trophy presentation was postponed, and President Abdelmadjid Tebboune expressed condolences while MC Alger players donated blood to the injured. Need More Context? 🔎

The Free State High Court has ordered the dissolution of the Ngwathe Local Municipality due to significant failures in meeting its constitutional and regulatory obligations to residents in towns like Parys, Heilbron, Koppies, and Vredefort. This decision underscores the municipality's inability to effectively govern and provide necessary services to its communities. Need More Context? 🔎

More than 200 gunmen attacked a Niger army base in Banibangou, resulting in at least 34 soldiers killed and 14 injured, according to the defense ministry. The junta, which has expelled Western forces and sought alliances with Russia and Turkey for security, is under scrutiny for its inability to combat ongoing jihadist violence in the region. Need More Context? 🔎

A selection of the week's best photos from across the African continent and beyond:Highlights include women harvesting seaweed in Zanzibar, a biking contest in South Africa, and a concert featuring Angelique Kidjo in France. Other notable images capture forest fires in Cape Town, the burning of illegal firearms in Kenya, and vibrant street life in Togo. Need More Context? 🔎

Niger's military junta plans to nationalise the French-owned uranium company Somaïr, accused of irresponsible practices, as part of its effort to gain greater control over local mineral resources and reduce ties with France, moving closer to Russia. This move follows a history of colonial agreements that many in Niger view as ongoing domination, raising concerns over job security and export earnings in the mining sector. Need More Context? 🔎