Today in Africa — July 1, 2026: Cabo Verde Captain Faces Rape Investigation, South Africa Arrests 900+ After Protests

Uganda Confirms Isolated Marburg Virus Case

Uganda has confirmed an isolated case of Marburg virus disease after a one-and-a-half-year-old child died in Kyegegwa district, according to the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Health officials said no contacts have developed symptoms, there are no active Marburg cases, and surveillance continues as the country also responds to an Ebola outbreak.

Eight Kenyan Schoolgirls Charged Over Deadly Dormitory Fire

Eight students have pleaded not guilty to murder charges over a dormitory fire that killed 16 girls at Utumishi Girls’ Academy Senior School in Nakuru County in May. The case has renewed concerns about safety and recurring unrest in Kenya’s boarding schools, where more than 200 senior schools were temporarily closed after similar incidents earlier this year.

Dozens of Students Still Missing After Nigeria School Attack

At least 37 students and one staff member remain missing after suspected ISWAP fighters attacked a secondary school in Lassa, northeastern Nigeria, while students were taking exams. Officials say eight people, including the vice principal, have been rescued, as the attack adds to a string of school kidnappings that continue to plague the country.

Germany Arrests Rwandan Man Over 1994 Genocide Allegations

German authorities have arrested a German-Rwandan man accused of helping carry out the 1994 genocide against the Tutsis, including ordering the killings of 25 people and personally taking part in one attack. Prosecutors say he also incited violence and compiled death lists, with the case proceeding under Germany’s universal jurisdiction laws.

Algeria Votes Amid Fears of Another Record-Low Turnout

Algerians are voting in parliamentary elections today, Wednesday, July 1, amid expectations of low turnout, as years of political mistrust and shrinking civic space continue to dampen participation. The vote follows the exclusion of more than 3,700 prospective candidates under a revised electoral law that critics say gives authorities broad powers to bar candidates.

Zimbabwe Clears Final Hurdle for Constitutional Changes

Zimbabwe’s parliament has approved constitutional amendments that would extend presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years and replace direct presidential elections with a parliamentary vote. The changes now await President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s signature, while opposition figures say the reforms could further entrench ZANU-PF’s hold on power.