Eswatini Receives Fourth Group of U.S. Deportees Under Migration Deal
Eswatini has accepted 11 more people deported from the United States under an agreement to host third-country nationals who cannot be returned directly to their home countries. The government says the group will stay temporarily with their rights protected, but the deal has faced criticism from human rights groups over transparency and the use of prison facilities to hold deportees.
Russia, Sahel States Strengthen Military Cooperation
Russia and the Alliance of Sahel States — Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso — have pledged to deepen military cooperation as jihadist groups expand attacks across the region. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met officials from the three military-led countries in Niger, where Moscow said it would continue to support their armed forces through assistance, including from Russia’s Africa Corps.
Zambia’s Election to Test President Hichilema’s Economic Record
Zambia is preparing for an August election, with President Hakainde Hichilema seeking a second term as opposition leader Brian Mundubile challenges his handling of the economy. Hichilema is pointing to growth after Zambia’s debt restructuring and lower inflation, while critics say the recovery has not eased the cost-of-living pressures facing many households.
LGBTQ+ Cruise Ship Denied Entry to Egypt After Turkey Ban
An LGBTQ+ cruise ship carrying about 2,000 passengers has been refused entry into Egypt days after Turkey also blocked the vessel from docking. The Scarlet Lady, chartered by Atlantis Events, was forced to change its itinerary twice, with the tour company saying Egypt’s decision came as a surprise after a similar trip went ahead last year.
Russia Offers Mozambique Support Against Insurgency
Russia says it is ready to help Mozambique fight the Islamist insurgency in the country’s north if requested by the Mozambican government. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov’s comments come as Russia expands its security role in Africa through the Africa Corps, which replaced the Wagner mercenary group.
Uganda Lawyers Challenge Colonial-Era Court Traditions
Uganda’s judiciary has rejected a lawyers’ association directive calling for an end to colonial-era courtroom practices, including addressing judges as “My Lord” or “My Lady” and bowing before them. The Uganda Law Society says the changes are part of efforts to reform the justice system, but the judiciary says lawyers must continue following existing court traditions.
