NEWS

Today in Africa — May 12, 2026: U.S. Expands Africa Travel Warnings, South Africa’s President Refuses to Step Down Over Farmgate Scandal

OkayAfrica has scoured the Internet for today’s major news stories, so you don't have to. On May 12, coverage includes: nine African countries remaining under Washington’s highest “Do Not Travel” advisory; Cyril Ramaphosa vowing to fight revived impeachment proceedings tied to the Phala Phala cash scandal; and more.

Okay avatar
Lihle Z. Mtshali Today in Africa & Newsletter Editor
A view of Burkina Faso’s famous landmark, the filmmakers' roundabout, in Ouagadougou, with cars and motorbikes around it.
A view of Burkina Faso’s famous landmark, the filmmakers' roundabout, in Ouagadougou. The U.S. has included Burkina Faso in its latest “Do Not Travel” advisory.

Every day, OkayAfrica shares a roundup of news we’re following but haven’t published as full articles. These short updates cover what’s happening on the continent — in culture, politics, and beyond. For more on stories like these, be sure to check out our News page, with stories from across the regions.

RELATED

Nine African Countries Remain on Highest U.S. Travel Warning List

Infographic map of Africa with several countries marked under Level 4 U.S. travel advisories.
A look at the African countries currently under the U.S. State Department’s highest Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory.

Nine African countries remain under the United States’ highest Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory in the latest May 2026 update, reflecting ongoing concerns over conflict, terrorism, kidnappings, and political instability across parts of the continent. The countries span the Sahel, Central Africa, North Africa, and the Horn of Africa, with U.S. officials warning that conditions in some areas could make emergency or consular assistance extremely limited. Burkina Faso was added this month, while the eight other countries were already on the list.

What’s Driving the Warnings:

  • The U.S. cites armed conflict, terrorism, violent crime, civil unrest, and weak infrastructure as major risks.

  • Niger was added to the list in January 2026, while Chad was added in April amid rising insecurity and kidnapping concerns.

  • U.S. officials say some affected regions have limited state control and worsening humanitarian conditions.

  • Analysts describe the affected areas as part of a growing “instability belt” stretching from the Sahel to the Horn of Africa.

  • Several countries, including Mali, Sudan, and Somalia, remain unchanged on the list due to ongoing long-term conflicts.

Ramaphosa Says He Won’t Resign as Phala Phala Impeachment Process Moves Forward

A graphic explaining the Phala Phala Cash Scandal.
Phala Phala, Explained.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa says he will not resign after the Constitutional Court revived impeachment proceedings tied to the Phala Phala cash scandal, insisting nothing in the ruling requires him to step down. The case centers on the theft of at least $580,000 in foreign currency hidden inside furniture at Ramaphosa’s game farm, a scandal that has reignited pressure on the president ahead of local elections later this year. In a televised address to the nation last night, the leader of Africa’s biggest economy said, “While there have been calls in some circles that I should resign, nothing in the Constitutional Court judgment compels me to resign my office.”

What Happens Next:

  • Parliament’s speaker is expected to begin setting up an impeachment committee to investigate the allegations further.

  • Ramaphosa says he plans to challenge the original independent panel report in court, a move analysts say could delay the process.

  • A successful impeachment vote would require support from two-thirds of parliament.

  • Former president Jacob Zuma’s MK party and the African Transformation Movement have also submitted motions of no confidence against Ramaphosa.

  • Deputy President Paul Mashatile would not automatically become president if Ramaphosa were removed or resigned; lawmakers would vote for a replacement.

In Brief: More Stories Today

Museveni Begins Seventh Term as Attention Turns to His Son

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has been sworn in for a seventh term, extending his nearly 40 years in power as questions grow over who could eventually succeed him. Much of the focus is now on his son, army chief Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, whose growing political influence and support within the ruling party have fueled speculation about a possible hereditary transition of power.

Amnesty Says Nigerian Airstrike Killed at Least 100 at Market

Amnesty International says at least 100 civilians were killed after a Nigerian military airstrike hit a crowded market in Zamfara State on Sunday. The military has not responded to the allegations but has repeatedly said its air operations target armed groups and are based on intelligence.

Libya Rescues 120 Migrants From Traffickers Near Benghazi

Authorities in eastern Libya say they rescued and deported 120 migrants who were allegedly being tortured and extorted by traffickers south of Benghazi. Officials say an escaped Egyptian migrant helped lead security forces to the sites, where migrants were reportedly beaten while videos were sent to families demanding ransom payments.

Africa CDC and Aspen Push New Vaccine Manufacturing Plan

The Africa Center for Disease Control and South African pharmaceutical giant Aspen Pharmacare are discussing a long-term deal to expand vaccine production on the continent. The talks focus on building sustainable demand and supply chains for African-made vaccines after the COVID-19 pandemic exposed Africa’s heavy dependence on imports.

Kenya Moves to End Anonymous Crypto Trading

Kenya is preparing new rules that would force cryptocurrency exchanges to disclose customer identities, wallet activity, and transaction records to tax authorities. The proposed law is part of a wider global push to regulate digital assets and crack down on tax evasion and anonymous trading.

Sierra Leone Opposition Raises Alarm Over Drug Trafficking Links

Sierra Leone’s opposition leader has called for urgent action after Spanish authorities seized 30 tonnes of cocaine from a ship that had departed from Freetown. The case has intensified scrutiny over alleged links between Sierra Leone and international trafficking networks, especially after reports tied senior officials to a wanted Dutch drug trafficker.

africa travel uganda news today in africa south africa news nigeria news news muhoozi kainerugaba libya news latest kenya news home cyril ramaphosa african news yoweri museveni us travel advisory

MORE LIKE THIS