Tanzania Orders Officials Onto Buses as Fuel Prices Surge
Tanzania’s president, Samia Suluhu Hassan, has ordered government officials to stop using large convoys and instead travel together by bus to cut fuel use and costs as global oil prices rise amid the war in Iran. The move comes as petrol, diesel, and kerosene prices climb sharply, putting pressure on households and public finances in a country heavily reliant on fuel imports.
South Africa’s Arms Exports Jump to $550M Across 42 Countries
South Africa generated about $550 million in defense exports in 2025, selling weapons, ammunition, and military equipment to 42 countries across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The surge reflects rising global demand, with munitions making up the bulk of sales and Germany emerging as the top buyer. South Africa stands out as an exporter amongst other African nations, which largely import arms from Europe.
Rand and Naira Among Top Global Currency Performers
South Africa’s rand and Nigeria’s naira have ranked among the world’s strongest currencies against the U.S. dollar over the past year. Gains of 16.4% and 13.5%, respectively, place them among the top global performers, supported by domestic reforms and shifting global capital flows.
Pope Leo Plans 10-Day Africa Tour Across Four Countries
Pope Leo will visit Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea from April 13 to 23 in his first major overseas trip of 2026. The tour aims to spotlight Africa’s growing Catholic population and bring attention to the continent’s challenges and global relevance.
Al Qaeda and ISIS Affiliates Clash in Niger for First Time
Rival jihadist groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State have clashed in Niger for the first time, marking a shift in their long-running conflict. The violence, which has already killed thousands across the Sahel, signals a deepening rivalry in areas with weak state control.
Kenya Rejects UN Findings on Abuse Claims in Haiti Mission
Kenya has pushed back against a UN report that found credible allegations of sexual abuse involving its police officers in a Haitian security mission. Officials say their own investigation found no wrongdoing and insist the process was fair and shared with UN bodies.
Protests Erupt in Senegal Over Cost of Living and Job Losses
Hundreds of protesters took to the streets in Dakar yesterday, Wednesday, April 8, accusing the government of breaking promises on wages and jobs amid a worsening debt crisis. Demonstrators are demanding tax relief, reinstatement of laid-off workers, and action as economic pressures deepen.
Nigeria Launches Mass Terrorism Trial of Over 500 Suspects
Nigeria has begun prosecuting more than 500 suspects in one of its largest terrorism trials, with 227 arraigned before 10 judges in Abuja. The cases target alleged links to militant attacks, as authorities try to address years of violence and long delays that kept suspects in detention without trial.
Djibouti’s Guelleh Heads Into Vote Expected to Extend 27-Year Rule
Djibouti’s president, Ismail Omar Guelleh, held his final rally ahead of the presidential elections tomorrow, Friday, April 10, which he is widely expected to win, potentially extending his decades-long rule. The vote comes amid criticism from rights groups, who say opposition voices have been silenced and the outcome is largely predetermined.
