Water Clashes Kill 42 in Eastern Chad
At least 42 people were killed and 10 wounded after two families clashed over water access in Igote village near Chad’s Sudan border, officials said. Authorities say the army has restored order and launched mediation and legal action, as pressure grows in the region hosting hundreds of thousands of refugees from Sudan’s war.
Gunmen Abduct Pupils From Nigerian Orphanage
Gunmen kidnapped 23 pupils from an orphanage in Lokoja, Kogi State, with 15 later rescued, authorities say. The facility was operating illegally, and security forces are still searching for the remaining eight children as kidnappings for ransom rise across Nigeria.
Tunisia Suspends Historic Rights Group
Tunisia has ordered a one-month suspension of the Tunisian League for Human Rights, a key civil society group and Nobel Peace Prize-winning Quartet member. The move adds to mounting pressure on activists, journalists, and NGOs, with critics warning of a widening crackdown under President Kais Saied.
Congo Launches Paramilitary Force to Secure Mines
The Democratic Republic of Congo plans to deploy a new paramilitary guard to protect its mining sector, starting with up to 3,000 personnel by December. Backed by U.S. and UAE funding, the force aims to curb illicit trade, secure mineral exports, and strengthen control in conflict-hit eastern regions.
South Africa Pulls AI Policy Over Fake Sources
South Africa has withdrawn its draft national AI policy after discovering fabricated references likely generated by AI. The government says the lapse undermined the policy’s credibility and promised accountability, as it works toward a revised framework.
Nigeria Drops $32.8M Data Fine Against Meta
Nigeria has scrapped a $32.8 million fine against Meta after a confidential settlement, leaving the company to cover only legal costs. The reversal has raised concerns about transparency and the strength of data protection enforcement, following earlier allegations affecting over 60 million users.
Dangote Refinery Profits Rise as Airlines Struggle
Nigeria’s Dangote refinery is cashing in on record jet fuel margins, exporting much of its output while local airlines face soaring prices. Carriers have threatened to halt flights, prompting government intervention as fuel costs surge in the deregulated market.
