Photo : BBC
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : BBC
SOUTH AFRICA
Nationwide anti-immigration protests grip South Africa
On 01 July, Africa News reported that thousands of people marched across South Africa demanding the departure of undocumented foreign nationals, culminating a weeks-long anti-immigration campaign that has prompted thousands to leave the country and left at least four people dead. Police maintained a heavy security presence as demonstrations took place in major cities, with isolated incidents of looting and clashes reported. Authorities said more than 25,000 people had been processed for departure in recent weeks, while several African governments organised voluntary repatriation for their citizens amid rising fears of xenophobic violence. (“Thousands march to demand illegal migrants leave South Africa,” Africa News, 01 July 2026)
NIGERIA
37 students missing after jihadist attack on school in northeast Nigeria
On 01 July, Africa News reported that 37 students were missing after suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants raided a secondary school in Lassa, northeastern Nigeria, where pupils were sitting for their final examinations. According to a list shared by a local government official and confirmed by an intelligence source, the students remain unaccounted for following the attack, which killed a soldier, a teacher and another person. School abductions remain a persistent tactic used by militant groups in Nigeria, with analysts warning of a resurgence in jihadist attacks since 2025. (“At least 37 students missing after school kidnapping in Northeastern Nigeria,” Africa News, 01 July 2026)
UGANDA
Uganda opposition crackdown deepens amid treason trial and media shutdown
On 01 July, Africa News reported that Uganda's political crackdown intensified as opposition leader Kizza Besigye appeared in court on treason charges, telling judges the trial could not proceed while his lawyers feared for their safety following the arrest of one of his lead attorneys. Besigye has been detained since his reported abduction in Kenya last year. The crackdown has coincided with a broader campaign led by army chief General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, including arrests of activists, politicians and lawyers, while soldiers also shut down one of East Africa's largest independent media groups, which is now negotiating with the military to resume operations. (“Uganda crackdown deepens as opposition leader faces treason trial,” Africa News, 01 July 2026)
GHANA
12 people dead in floods as Ghana steps up emergency response
On 30 June, Africa News reported that at least 12 people had died in severe flooding in Ghana's capital, Accra, with officials warning the toll could rise as several people remain missing. Rescue teams have saved more than 400 people after torrential rain submerged homes and roads across the city. The government apologised for its response, while President John Mahama released emergency funds and deployed the military and police to assist relief operations. Authorities warned that despite easing rainfall, saturated ground continues to pose a high risk of further flooding. (“At least 12 dead in devastating Accra floods,” Africa News, 30 June 2026)
MALI
Human Rights Watch accuses warring parties in Mali of serious abuses
On 29 June, Africa News reported that Human Rights Watch (HRW) accused Islamist fighters, Malian forces and Russian-backed Africa Corps mercenaries of committing serious abuses against civilians since fighting intensified in April. The report alleged reprisals against Fulani communities, civilian deaths from airstrikes, and abuses by jihadist group JNIM, including a blockade of Bamako, the burning of civilian vehicles and public executions. HRW said longstanding impunity was fuelling the violence and urged the United Nations and African Union to support independent investigations. (“Warring parties in Mali committing serious rights abuses, HRW report finds,” Africa News, 29 June 2026)
BURKINA FASO
Burkina Faso cuts diplomatic ties with France
On 27 June, Africa News reported that Burkina Faso's military government severed diplomatic relations with France, accusing Paris of pursuing "neo-colonial ambitions" and supporting subversive networks and terrorists operating in the Sahel. France rejected the allegations as "hostile and baseless" and said it was considering reciprocal measures. The junta stated that the move affected only formal diplomatic relations and did not alter historical or cultural ties between the Burkinabe and French peoples, amid growing anti-French sentiment and expanding Russian and Chinese influence across the region. (“Burkina Faso cuts diplomatic ties with France,” Africa News, 27 June 2026)
KENYA
Police detain hundreds on anniversary of 2024 Gen Z protests
On 25 June, Africa News reported that the Kenyan police detained hundreds of people and used tear gas as families of those killed during the June 2024 anti-government protests marched to Parliament in Nairobi, demanding justice and compensation. At least 60 people were killed when police opened fire during demonstrations against proposed tax increases in June 2024. The government said 355 people were arrested to prevent disorder, while opposition leaders joined the march and criticised delays in the USD 15 million compensation programme. Victims' families called for greater transparency and accountability, with only three police officers so far charged over the killings. (“Hundreds arrested in Nairobi on anniversary of 2024 Gen Z protests,” Africa News, 25 June 2026)