Zimbabwean politician, president since 2017
A Chinese national has been fined and sentenced to prison in Kenya after pleading guilty to attempting to smuggle over 2,200 ants out of the country. The case highlights ongoing wildlife trafficking concerns, with authorities warning of rising demand for ants in Asia and Europe. The suspect is set to be deported after serving his sentence.
The US has been discussing relocating 1,100 Afghan refugees, including military allies and families of US service members, from a Qatar base to third countries, with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as a possible option. The Trump administration halted Afghan visa processing in 2025, leaving refugees stranded and facing forced choices between returning to Taliban rule or resettlement in unstable countries.
Lungu has died in a South African hospital at 68. A dispute over the former president’s burial persists between his family and President Hakainde Hichilema. Pretoria has ordered repatriation for a state ceremony, while the family seeks a South Africa burial; the South African courts have yet to rule on the matter.
Zimbabwe’s draft constitutional bill would extend the presidency and other public offices to seven-year terms and defer 2028 elections. Parliament is set to debate it next week, with critics warning of legal challenges and protests.
Zimbabwe’s High Court has acquitted an opposition activist after seven months in pre-trial detention amid allegations of political persecution. In Ghana, arrests over false news and offensive speech ignite a national debate on free expression, laws, and digital-era challenges. Zimbabwe also debates constitutional timing changes that could shift future elections.
Torrential rains have submerged buildings and roads in Accra and Abidjan, with at least 12-13 deaths confirmed and rescue efforts ongoing. Authorities warn the toll could rise as the heavy rainfall continues, threatens infrastructure, and triggers drainage and power outages. Governments vow relief and desilting work while urging residents to relocate from high-risk areas.