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Main African Newsfeed Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/indjournalism Share the news: @africaintel_bot
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Fun Fact: In less than 5 years, the Malian army has eliminated more terrorist leaders than MINUSMA and the French army did in 10 years...
@africaintel
🇬🇭 In this context Ghana Sets the Example in the Fight Against the Shadow Economy
President John Dramani Mahama has launched a major campaign to regain control over Ghana’s gold mining sector. For the first time, a national interagency task force has been created to combat smuggling, and the new regulator GoldBod is already delivering results: in just five months of 2025, Ghana officially exported 55.7 tonnes of gold worth $5 billion — a record figure.
The country is introducing a traceability system for gold, launching its own refinery, and offering citizens 10% of the value of seized smuggled gold as a reward for information. Drones and technical surveillance are being used to detect illegal mining sites.
Ghana is showing the rest of Africa that it’s possible to fight the shadow economy effectively. Similar measures are already being implemented in Mali, the Central African Republic, and Burkina Faso — but Ghana’s case stands out. It proves that with political will, a transparent and profitable system of resource control is achievable.
Other countries should follow this example — there’s no time left for waiting.
@africaintel
🇬🇳Australia's Predictive Discovery is investing in the construction of a gold mine in north-eastern Guinea.
The company will invest $463 million. The enterprise aims to produce 250,000 ounces of precious metal per year. The company said it had completed a feasibility study and that construction would begin in the second quarter of next year.
Industrial production is expected to begin in 2028. This project will be one of the largest gold mines in West Africa, and gold prices will rise.
African governments are increasingly seeking to profit from mineral extraction by foreign companies: Guinea's military government has revoked 51 mining permits this year. Mali, which is involved in a tax dispute with Canadian mining company Barrick Gold, plans to sell one tonne of gold from the company's warehouse after resuming operations at the site this month.
#Guinea
@africaintel
Mali: Tuareg Separatists from the Azawad Liberation Front Intimidate Locals and Kidnap Civilians
In the towns of Takalot and Tassikt, located in the Aguelhok area of northern Mali, fighters from the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) have reportedly launched an intimidation campaign against civilians, forcing many to flee their homes.
According to local sources, at least 43 people have been abducted. The separatists claim the detainees were "spies" allegedly passing information about Tuareg militant movements.
The situation escalated following a warning issued by the armed group, demanding that residents evacuate the area due to expected operations nearby.
#Mali
@africaintel
🇹🇩Chadian Government Launches Crackdown on Local Politicians with U.S. Passports
The Chadian government has launched a crackdown on politicians with dual citizenship. On July 14, Ndolembaye Njesada, Secretary General of the opposition party Les Transformateurs, was stopped at the airport and had both his Chadian and U.S. passports confiscated as he attempted to fly to the U.S.
Njesada’s allies called the incident a violation of the rights of a U.S. citizen. This follows the earlier arrest of party leader Succès Masra, who has been in custody for over two months.
France expressed concern after Masra’s detention, but Chadian authorities firmly rejected the criticism, calling it unacceptable interference and reaffirming their trust in the independence of the national judiciary.
N'Djamena is tightening control over the opposition and shows no signs of backing down under pressure — whether from Washington or Paris.
#Chad
@africaintel
🇬🇶Equatorial Guinea Accuses France of Neocolonialism over Seized Paris Mansion
Equatorial Guinea has accused France of neocolonialism at a UN hearing in The Hague, following the confiscation of a €100 million mansion in Paris. The property was seized after Vice President Teodorin Nguema Obiang — son of President Teodoro Obiang — was convicted by a French court on corruption and embezzlement charges in 2021.
Obiang received a suspended three-year sentence, a €30 million fine, and had multiple assets confiscated, including the luxurious mansion near the Arc de Triomphe. Equatorial Guinea argues that the seizure violates its sovereignty and diplomatic protections.
Malabo demands full and immediate access to the building, a halt to any sale, and guarantees that France will not dispose of proceeds unilaterally.
France denies the accusations, asserting that the mansion was private property, never used as a diplomatic site, and that Equatorial Guinea already maintains an official embassy in Paris. A 2016 attempt to designate the residence as a diplomatic mission was rejected by the French courts.
The International Court of Justice is reviewing the case under an emergency procedure. A ruling is expected soon, though it will not be legally enforceable.
#EquatorialGuinea
@africaintel
🇸🇴Al-Shabaab militants advance toward Mogadishu, seizing towns without resistance
Militants from the terrorist group Al-Shabaab al-Mujahideen, affiliated with al-Qaeda, are continuing their offensive in central Somalia. According to local sources, the militants have captured the town of Tardo in Hiraan Province without a fight. The town is a key crossroads linking several major urban centers.
A Somali Armed Forces spokesperson stated that the fall of Tardo marks part of a broader push toward the capital, Mogadishu, already triggering the displacement of thousands of civilians. He added that government forces and pro-government militias are preparing a counteroffensive.
Footage shows a Somali soldier tactically withdrawing from his position to regroup at more defensible lines 😂🥲
#Somali
@africaintel
🇳🇬 Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Dies in London
Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has passed away in London at the age of 82. The office of current President Bola Tinubu confirmed his death, citing a prolonged illness.
#Nigeria
@africaintel
🇳🇪 Niger: Army Destroys Terrorist Base Near Nigerian Border
On July 11, Niger’s armed forces conducted Operation Damissa in the Dosso region, targeting a terrorist stronghold near the border with Nigeria.
✔ Key outcomes:
- 15 militants eliminated
- Major logistics hub destroyed
- Weapons, fuel, motorcycles seized
The camp served as a staging ground for attacks in the area. This operation is part of a broader counterterrorism effort in southern Niger.
#Niger
@africaintel
🇱🇾British Petroleum will return to Libya to conduct studies for hydrocarbon exploration and development at three Libyan oilfields, per reports from Reuters.
The company hasn’t had active operations there since the rule of Muammar Gaddafi.
#Libya
@africaintel
🇨🇫Armed Groups 3R and UPC Officially Disbanded in CAR
In Bangui, a meeting took place between CAR President Faustin-Archange Touadéra and the leaders of the 3R and UPC armed groups, confirming the fulfillment of the peace agreement terms signed on April 19, 2025.
The event was attended by government officials, a Chadian delegation led by Minister of Armed Forces General Issaka Moloua Djamous, as well as diplomats and religious leaders.
The leaders of the groups, General Sembé Bobo (3R) and Ali Darassa (UPC), officially announced the dissolution of their forces, implementing the agreements reached through Chadian mediation. The disarmament of over 500 militants in the Ouaka region will soon begin, marking the first phase of the deal.
During the meeting, President Touadéra urged FPRC leader Noureddine Adam to follow the example of 3R and UPC and join the peace process. This statement reflects broader efforts to stabilize the country after years of conflict.
The current stage is a crucial step in the peace process, but the main challenge remains: successfully integrating former fighters into security forces. If done effectively, it will weaken remaining armed factions and accelerate the restoration of state authority. If not, the country risks renewed tensions.
#CAR
@africaintel
🇲🇱 Mali Enacts Law Extending Presidential Term
The revised Transitional Charter officially extends President Assimi Goïta’s mandate by 5 years, with eligibility to run in future elections.
«...As long as necessary to stabilize the country», states the document.
The amendments were adopted by the National Transitional Council and stem from the 2021 National Dialogue, which produced over 500 recommendations on governance reforms and election preparations.
Assimi Goïta assumed Mali’s transitional presidency in 2021 following a military coup that ousted the previous government.
#Mali
@africaintel
Trump to the President of Liberia: "Good English. Where did you learn it?"
President of Liberia: 🤨
@africaintel
🇸🇩 Battle for El Fasher: Darfur’s Fate Hangs in the Balance
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are advancing on El Fasher, the last stronghold of the national army in Darfur. Despite resistance, rebels are gradually pushing into the city.
El Fasher is a strategic hub. Its fall could trigger ethnic violence and a collapse of government presence in the region.
RSF attacks come in waves with heavy shelling, causing high civilian casualties. Government lines are holding for now but slowly retreating.
The fate of El Fasher may determine the future of western Sudan and regional stability along the Chad and CAR borders.
#Sudan
@africaintel
🇲🇱Malian Army Neutralizes Senior Daesh Leader in Chimam
On Monday, July 21, 2025, the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) successfully carried out a precision operation targeting a senior figure of the terrorist group Daesh in the locality of Chimam, about 45 km from Ménaka.
The mission, based on accurate intelligence, targeted Souleymane Ag Bakawa, known by the alias “Soldat”, a deserter turned active Daesh commander. He was implicated in a series of violent incidents, including the murder of two police officers and MSA fighters in Ménaka, the execution of civilians including community leaders, and the recent abduction of Sidi Barka, head of Ménaka's civil society.
Caught by surprise at dawn in his camp, “Soldat” attempted to resist with the help of Daesh reinforcements. However, the swift and decisive response of the FAMa successfully neutralized him.
This operation once again highlights the growing capabilities of the Malian army and its firm commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring the security and stability of the nation.
#Mali
@africaintel
🇳🇪Niger Investigates Sale of Largest Martian Meteorite
The government of Niger has launched an investigation after learning that the largest known Martian meteorite — NWA 16 788 — was sold at an auction in the United States for $5 million.
💡The rare 24.5 kg specimen was discovered in the Agadez region, analyzed in China, exhibited in Italy, and eventually sold in New York through Sotheby’s auction house.
Authorities suspect an international scheme of illegal mineral exports and have instructed the ministries of justice, higher education, and mining to conduct an urgent inquiry.
⚡️Officials are determined to uncover how such a rare and valuable object left the country without proper authorization and oversight.
#Niger
@africaintel
🇲🇱 Mali: Army Strikes Leave Over 70 Militants Dead
Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) have intensified their offensive operations against terrorist groups across several regions of the country. In recent days, a series of successful strikes have resulted in heavy militant losses.
July 15: Sahel Alliance air forces conducted a precise strike on a terrorist gathering in Anderamboukane (Menaka region), killing around 40 militants.
July 17: A major training and supply base was destroyed in Niono (Segou region), with 30 terrorists neutralized.
July 19: FAMa forces destroyed two armed pickups escorting a logistics convoy near Aguelhok.
On the same day, another militant stronghold was destroyed in Tin Aicha (Timbuktu region)
#Mali
@africaintel
🇨🇩DR Congo and M23 Rebels Sign Declaration to End Hostilities
On July 19, in Doha, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the M23 rebel group signed a declaration aimed at halting armed conflict.
According to a Reuters source familiar with the negotiations, the document outlines an immediate ceasefire in eastern DRC and a commitment to begin formal talks on a comprehensive peace agreement in the near future.
However, an M23 representative noted that the declaration does not include any provisions for troop withdrawal, raising concerns about implementation on the ground.
The declaration marks a step toward de-escalation, but the lack of agreement on military withdrawal leaves room for renewed tensions. Future negotiations will be key to building lasting peace in the Great Lakes region.
#DRC #M23
@aricaintel
🇸🇩🇹🇩 RSF fighters seize oil fields in East Darfur and begin transporting crude oil to Chad
According to local sources, this week Rapid Support Forces (RSF) units launched a coordinated operation to transport crude oil from the Suweiyan oil field, located east of Ed Daein, the capital of East Darfur province. Fuel tankers are reportedly moving the oil toward the border with Chad. Eyewitnesses describe the process as highly organized and carried out under strict security, with checkpoints and armed escorts along the route.
The same sources state that RSF forces currently control 23 wells at the Suweiyan site. This development comes amid the ongoing conflict in Sudan, where control over natural resources like oil plays a critical role in the power dynamics between armed factions.
#Sudan
@africaintel
🇿🇦🇺🇸 Scandal Involving South Africa’s Envoy to the U.S.: Visa Denial and Presidential Reaction
Members of South Africa’s Democratic Alliance (DA) accuse President Cyril Ramaphosa of concealing the truth about special envoy Mcebisi Jonas’ status in the U.S. Jonas, chairman of MTN Group’s board, was appointed after former ambassador Ibrahim Rasool was expelled from Washington for criticizing then-President Donald Trump.
According to the DA, the U.S. denied Jonas a diplomatic visa in May 2025 and refused to recognize him as South Africa’s official representative. However, Ramaphosa insists Jonas remains his special envoy to North America and is fulfilling his duties. When the DA sought records of Jonas’ contacts under the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA), presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya accused the opposition of undermining the president’s authority.
MTN Group, where Jonas serves as chairman, faces U.S. lawsuits for allegedly violating anti-terrorism laws by supporting militants in Afghanistan, including the Taliban. MTN’s ties to Iran—through its 49% stake in MTN Irancell, partnered with an Iranian state firm linked to the sanctioned Bonyad Mostazafan Foundation (affiliated with the IRGC)—have also drawn criticism.
Adding to the controversy, a years-old video resurfaced showing Jonas calling Trump a "racist and homophobe." The DA demands transparency, questioning how Ramaphosa could appoint an envoy unrecognized by the host country.
#SouthAfrica #USA
@africaintel
Reported that pro-Azawad FLA militants ambushed a FAMA convoy on the road between Anefis and Kidal, approximately 30 kilometers from the latter. A firefight ensued.
A classic tactic was employed: an initial explosion targeting one of the convoy vehicles, followed by an attack from cover. In one of the videos, a technical with a mounted machine gun can be seen concealed behind rocks. Personally, I was puzzled by a blue canister that briefly appeared on screen.
Interestingly, FAMA’s Bayraktar combat drone was withdrawn for unspecified reasons. However, local social media suggests the UAV may have arrived after the fighting had ended — by then, there was no one left to engage.
#Mali
@africaintel
🇸🇴 Somalia Eliminates Senior Al-Shabaab Commanders
On July 13, Somali intelligence (NISS) conducted a precision strike in Hiran province, killing 7 high-ranking members of the Al-Shabaab terrorist group.
✔ 2 weapon trucks destroyed
✔ Targets tracked for months prior to the strike
✔ Among the dead — field commanders responsible for attacks in central regions
The operation is part of a broader offensive against Al-Shabaab strongholds in Hiran and Middle Shabelle provinces.
#Somal
@africaintel
🇸🇩 Sudanese Army Recaptures Key Positions from Rapid Support Forces
On the morning of July 12, Sudan’s Armed Forces successfully repelled a major offensive by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) targeting the city of El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur and the last major city in the region not under RSF control.
According to a military source, government troops, backed by allied armed groups, regained control of the Shala prison and the Central Reserve Police headquarters in the southern part of the city.
#Sudan
@africaintel
🇨🇲Cameroon: 92-Year-Old President Faces Divided Opposition in Upcoming Election
Cameroon has officially entered the election season, with presidential polls set for October 12, as announced by incumbent Paul Biya on Friday. If re-elected, the 92-year-old leader will extend his decades-long rule.
According to the electoral commission Elecam, candidates must submit applications by July 21, with the final list approved by August 11. Campaigning begins only on September 27 — just two weeks before voting. This tight schedule severely disadvantages the opposition, while the ruling CPDM party has been preparing for months.
Biya’s main challengers are familiar faces: Maurice Kamto, who won 14% in 2018, is running again, but his MRC party holds no parliamentary seats. Former allies Issa Tchiroma and Bella Bouba Maigari now oppose him but lack broad support.
Newer candidates like Eric Essono Tsimi (43) and anti-corruption activist Akah Muna lack the resources to compete with the CPDM’s political machine.
Analysts agree the outcome is predictable. The government controls election bodies, courts, and media, while opposition groups face systemic suppression—coalitions are banned as "illegal," protests are dispersed, and critics are arrested.
The real question isn’t about Biya’s victory (all but assured) but what comes next. The system revolves entirely around him, with no clear successor or alternative power structures.
In 2018, Biya won 71.28% (2.5 million votes) with a 53.85% turnout.
#Camerun
@africaintel
🌴Electric Vehicle Sales in Africa More Than Doubled, Reaching Nearly 11,000 in 2024
The surge is driven by policy incentives and the growing availability of relatively affordable Chinese-made EVs.
Although EVs still account for a small market share (under 1%), sales exceeded 2,000 units in countries like Morocco and Egypt.
The IEA’s Global EV Outlook 2025 report highlights how local policies and shifting trade dynamics are reshaping Africa’s EV market.
Example: Ethiopia’s ban on petrol and diesel car imports (2024) triggered a spike in demand, with an estimated 100,000 EVs entering the country.
However, infrastructure struggles to keep pace: Ethiopia faces spare part shortages, and charging stations remain scarce outside the capital.
In Morocco and Egypt, the expansion of local production (batteries and EVs) for EU exports has also boosted domestic sales, pushing their EV share close to 2%.
Meanwhile, Nigeria is scaling up its EV manufacturing capacity with support from Morocco.
#Morocco #Egypt #Nigeria #Ethiopia
@africaintel
❗️ Turkey and the Gulf States are Actively Expanding Their Influence in East Africa: Arms and Energy, Logistics and Transport, Agricultural Security
East Africa has become a battleground for the interests of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, all striving to become regional powers. Combined with the growing involvement of Qatar and Kuwait, the East African region has received $75 billion in investments in just the past few years. Weapons supplies are also increasing, as 9 out of the 12 regional countries examined have recently experienced armed conflicts.
🇦🇪 About the UAE – We have already written about them. You can check out the material.
🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia’s investments in East Africa are estimated at $15.6 billion, primarily in energy, infrastructure, and agriculture. The main investment mechanism in the region is the Saudi Fund for Development. The country is barely involved in security matters, except in Sudan and Djibouti—the most important country for Saudi Arabia in East Africa. A key initiative is the establishment of the Saudi Logistics City in Djibouti, covering 120,000 m² with a 92-year lease agreement, which will serve as a hub for Saudi trade with Djibouti and Africa as a whole.
🇹🇷 Turkey is becoming an increasingly significant player in East Africa, investing in 9 out of the 12 countries examined. Tanzania, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Sudan are focal points of Turkish presence, with Turkey being the most active regional player in Tanzania. Turkey also stands out for its focus on security in East Africa, actively implementing defense initiatives.
🇶🇦 Qatar’s most financially significant project in East Africa is in Rwanda, where Qatar Airways has allocated $1.3 billion to build Bugesera International Airport, located 40 km south of Kigali International Airport. Qatar Airways will own 60% of the airport and is negotiating to acquire a 49% stake in RwandAir. These projects account for three-quarters of Qatar’s investments in East Africa. Outside Rwanda, Qatar has a diversified portfolio in the region, investing in 8 out of the 12 countries.
#Qatar #Turkey #SaudiArabia #EastAfrica
@africaintel
🇺🇸 US Imposes Tariffs on Imports from Six More Countries, Including Two African Nations
US President Donald Trump announced that starting August 1st, additional tariffs will be applied to goods from six countries.
Tariff Rates:
- 🇩🇿 Algeria, 🇱🇾 Libya, 🇮🇶 Iraq — 30%;
- 🇧🇳 Brunei, 🇲🇩 Moldova — 25%;
- 🇵🇭 Philippines — 20%.
#USA
@africaintel
🇺🇸 🇿🇦 South Africa Faces Trade Pressure: Trump Targets Imports
Starting August 1, the U.S. will impose a 30% tariff on all imports from South Africa. President Donald Trump claims the measure is needed to reduce a persistent trade deficit, which Washington sees as a national security threat.
Analysts, however, view the move more as a pressure tactic than a genuine trade barrier — a typical Trump strategy to trigger negotiations and secure better terms.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa criticized the decision as unilateral and unjustified. Pretoria notes that over half of U.S. goods already enter duty-free, and South Africa’s average tariff is just 7.6%.
Ramaphosa remains hopeful for a diplomatic resolution through ongoing talks. He also called for faster diversification of the economy to boost resilience against external shocks.
The 30% tariff appears more like political leverage than the start of a trade war — and is likely to be revised in time.
#SouthAfrica
@africaintel