Nigeria Offers Airline Debt Relief as Jet Fuel Crisis Deepens
Nigeria’s government has approved a 30% debt relief for domestic airlines and ordered urgent talks to fix soaring jet fuel prices after carriers warned operations were at risk. Fuel costs have jumped nearly 300%, prompting airlines to consider fare hikes and raising concerns about the sector’s stability.
Congolese Refugees Begin Returning Home From Burundi
Hundreds of Congolese refugees are returning from Burundi to eastern Democratic Republic of Congo after rebels withdrew from a key town, with more expected to follow in the coming weeks. The returns come after months of displacement caused by fighting around Uvira, though authorities say only safe areas will be considered for repatriation.
Lesotho Expands Water Project to Boost Exports to South Africa
A major new bridge in Lesotho is part of a wider project that will nearly double water exports to South Africa, strengthening supply to Gauteng while increasing revenue for Lesotho. The multibillion-rand project is also expected to improve the country’s energy output and create jobs.
South Africa Vows Crackdown After Xenophobic Attacks on Ghanaians
South African authorities say they will take action against anyone involved in attacks on foreign nationals after Ghana raised concerns over viral videos of violence. Officials stressed that intimidation and attacks on migrants have no place in the country’s democracy.
Dangote Pushes for East Africa Mega Refinery Backed by Regional Leaders
Aliko Dangote is seeking support from East African leaders to build a 650,000-barrel-per-day refinery similar to his Nigerian plant, aiming to cut reliance on imported fuel. The proposed project could serve multiple countries and is part of a broader push to boost industrialization across the region.
Ghana Mineworkers Push Back on Local Contractor Policy Over Pay Concerns
Ghana’s mineworkers’ union says it will resist a policy requiring foreign mining firms to outsource operations to local contractors, warning it will cut wages and weaken job security. Workers say contractor staff often earn about half as much as directly employed miners, while regulators plan tighter oversight to address concerns.
Eswatini Marks King Mswati III’s 40 Years on the Throne Amid Praise and Criticism
Eswatini marked 40 years of King Mswati III’s rule with national celebrations, as supporters praised development efforts like free schooling and mobile clinics. Critics used the moment to highlight inequality, saying the monarch’s costly lifestyle contrasts sharply with widespread poverty.
