Charmaine Marcus, a longtime resident of Cape Town, faces eviction as a property boom transforms her neighborhood into a trendy, expensive area. Despite South Africa's slowing economy, Cape Town's housing prices have surged, driven by an influx of families seeking better governance under the Democratic Alliance. Gentrification in areas like Woodstock has doubled housing prices, displacing longtime residents. Activists from Reclaim the City argue for more affordable housing closer to the city center. The city plans to develop affordable housing sites, but current emergency housing options are far from the city, threatening residents' livelihoods.

Adaptive surfing in South Africa is gaining momentum, with initiatives like Roxy Davis's Surf Emporium providing training clinics for people with physical and mental disabilities. The sport has seen increased participation and competition since the International Surfing Association's first adaptive surfing world championship in 2015. Key figures like Ant Smyth, who has achieved significant success in adaptive surfing, are working to make the sport more accessible. The initiative has positively impacted participants, offering them joy and a sense of achievement.

Rwanda's capital, Kigali, presents a clean and organized image, but its strict enforcement of laws against informal trading has led to severe consequences for street vendors. Theodosie Uwamohoro, a street vendor, died following a violent altercation with security guards. In response, the city built formal markets, but many vendors continue to sell on the streets due to the high costs and low profits in the markets. The city's crackdown on informal trading is part of a broader vision for a safe, clean, and green city, but it has been criticized for contributing to economic hardship and human rights issues. Finance Minister Tito Mboweni and Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba have praised Kigali's cleanliness, with Mashaba seeking to replicate its model in Johannesburg.

A Somali man fatally stabbed two worshippers and injured two others at a mosque in Malmesbury, South Africa, before being shot dead by police. The attack's motive remains unclear, occurring a month after a similar incident in Verulam. The Muslim Judicial Council expressed shock and urged against speculation. South Africa, known for religious tolerance, has seen few such extremist attacks. President Cyril Ramaphosa conveyed condolences and concern over rising intolerance and violence within the Muslim community.

A man fatally stabbed two individuals and injured two others at a mosque in Malmesbury, South Africa, before being shot dead by police. The attack's motive remains unclear, and the Muslim Judicial Council has urged the community not to speculate. This incident follows a similar attack in Verulam, Durban, where a mosque leader was killed. South Africa, known for its religious tolerance, has been largely spared from extremist attacks common in other African nations.

Henri Van Breda, a young South African man, was sentenced to three life terms for the brutal axe murders of his wealthy parents and brother, and the attempted murder of his sister. The attack, described as savage and vicious by Judge Siraj Desai, took place in January 2015. Despite a high-profile trial, the motive for the crime remains unclear. Van Breda's defense claimed an intruder was responsible, but this was dismissed by the judge. The South African government welcomed the sentence, expressing sympathy for the surviving sister, Marli.

Henri Van Breda, a young South African man, was sentenced to three life terms for the brutal axe murders of his wealthy parents and brother, and the attempted murder of his sister. Judge Siraj Desai described the attack as savage and unprecedented, emphasizing the severity of the crimes. Despite the defense's plea for a merciful sentence, Van Breda showed no remorse and provided no motive. The trial, which drew global attention, concluded with Van Breda being led away to serve his sentence in Pollsmoor prison. The South African government welcomed the sentence, expressing sympathy for the surviving sister, Marli.

Henri van Breda is on trial for the murder of his parents and brother in a frenzied axe attack in Stellenbosch, outside Cape Town. The Western Cape High Court judge, Siraj Desai, has expressed skepticism about van Breda's defense that an intruder was responsible, highlighting inconsistencies in his account and questioning why he did not immediately seek help after the attack. The trial has garnered significant attention due to the family's wealth and the brutal nature of the crime.

Henri van Breda was found guilty of murdering his parents and brother and severely injuring his sister in a frenzied axe attack at their home on the De Zalze Golf Estate in Stellenbosch, South Africa. The court dismissed his claim of a masked intruder, with Judge Siraj Desai highlighting inconsistencies in van Breda's testimony and the lack of evidence supporting a break-in. Van Breda, who showed little emotion during the verdict, faces life sentences for each murder. The trial drew significant attention due to the family's wealth and the brutal nature of the crime.

Speculation around the ANC's national executive committee appointments suggests a return to predictability in political appointments. President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to delay the Cabinet reshuffle to avoid humiliating ministers. Key appointments include Senzo Mchunu and Dakota Legoete in organizing and campaigns, Zizi Kodwa in monitoring and evaluation, and Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma in education, health, science, and technology. David Mabuza and Baleka Mbete are speculated to be in line for the deputy presidency. The article discusses the potential implications of these appointments and the internal dynamics within the ANC.

Optimism is prevalent in South Africa's mining industry due to the potential for pro-business reforms under the new leadership of the African National Congress, led by Cyril Ramaphosa. The industry, which employs over 460,000 people, has been hindered by legislative impasses and a corruption scandal involving President Jacob Zuma. The recent Mining Indaba conference in Cape Town highlighted the industry's hope for positive change. Ramaphosa, a former mining executive, is expected to replace Zuma and is seen as a unifying figure across business, government, and labor, despite his controversial role in the Marikana incident. The industry is closely watching the ANC's internal dynamics, anticipating Zuma's resignation before the next elections.

The world's largest mining investment conference in Cape Town coincides with discussions within the ANC about replacing President Jacob Zuma with Cyril Ramaphosa. Ramaphosa's leadership is seen as a beacon of hope for the mining industry, which has been stalled by legislative impasses and corruption scandals. The industry is optimistic about Ramaphosa's potential to improve investor sentiment and resolve issues surrounding the mining charter. However, Zuma's resistance to stepping down creates uncertainty. Ramaphosa's past involvement in the Marikana incident remains a blemish on his reputation.

Cape Town faces an imminent water crisis with 'Day Zero' approaching, when the city's water supply will be shut off due to severe drought. Residents will be limited to 25 liters of water per day, collected from designated points, with police and army on standby to prevent unrest. Businesses and residents are taking various measures to cope, but the situation remains dire, with officials criticizing the public for excessive water consumption.

Cape Town faces an imminent water crisis with 'Day Zero' approaching, when the city's water supply will be shut off due to severe drought. Residents will be limited to 25 liters of water per day, and the police and army are prepared to maintain order at water collection points. Businesses and residents are struggling to adapt, with some tourists canceling trips. The city has reduced its water consumption significantly, but not enough to prevent the crisis. Officials criticize residents for not adhering to water usage limits, exacerbating the situation.

The article discusses the plight of approximately 38,000 African asylum seekers in Israel, primarily from Eritrea and Sudan, who face a choice between deportation to 'third countries' or indefinite detention. It highlights personal stories of asylum seekers like Muhtar Awdalla and Anwar Suliman, who have faced significant hardships and uncertainty. The Israeli government's policies are criticized for being racially motivated and for failing to provide asylum seekers with legal status or social rights. Activists and NGOs are working to support the asylum seekers, but the community remains in a state of panic and uncertainty.

The article details the ongoing trial of Nafiz Modack and his associates, who are accused of extortion and racketeering in Cape Town's nightlife and entertainment sectors. The trial has revealed deep connections between criminal figures and high-ranking police officers, as well as political figures like Jacob Zuma. The investigation, led by Colonel Charl Kinnear and Major-General Jeremy Veary, aims to dismantle the violent extortion ring that has long plagued the city's economy. The article highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in combating this entrenched criminal network and the potential impact on the region's economic growth and tourism.

The ANC National Elective Conference highlighted significant internal corruption and missed opportunities for reform within the party. Fraudulent branch general meetings and illegal provincial executive committee conferences led to legal challenges and annulments. Key figures like Ace Magashule and Mosebenzi Zwane were criticized for their involvement in corruption. The conference failed to remove President Zuma from office, leaving the ANC's image in tatters. The new leadership under Ramaphosa faces the challenge of fighting corruption and restoring public trust.

Zimbabwe partially reversed a controversial indigenisation law, limiting foreign ownership in businesses to 49%, now only applying to the diamond and platinum industries. Finance Minister Patrick Chinamasa presented an investor-friendly budget aimed at reviving the economy. Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to consolidate his position as the new president. In Lesotho, SADC deployed over 200 troops, and the country began prosecuting soldiers for various crimes. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, Human Rights Watch reported that over 200 ex-rebel fighters were recruited by the government to suppress protests against President Joseph Kabila.

Zambian opposition lawmakers protested President Edgar Lungu's perceived intimidation of the judiciary regarding his eligibility for a third term. Lungu, who took office in 2015 and was re-elected in 2016, warned judges against an 'adventurous' ruling, citing the chaos following Kenya's election nullification. The Law Association of Zambia criticized Lungu's comments. In Zimbabwe, American journalist Martha O’Donovan was arrested for tweets undermining President Robert Mugabe. She faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. Meanwhile, Madagascar's plague outbreak is slowing, with Unicef reporting a decline in new cases and the WHO noting a reduction in patients receiving treatment.

The United Nations condemned the arrests of opposition members in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley urging President Joseph Kabila to hold elections in 2018. Zimbabwe denied that the World Health Organisation had appointed President Robert Mugabe as a goodwill ambassador, despite the controversy raising awareness about non-communicable diseases. In Angola, President João Lourenço made significant political changes, including appointing Carlos Saturnino as oil minister and firing long-time government officials, signaling a departure from the patronage network of his predecessor, Jose Eduardo Dos Santos.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has refuted claims that several African countries, including South Africa, are at high risk of importing the plague from Madagascar. The current outbreak in Madagascar has raised concerns due to its spread to urban centers and its pneumonic form, but the WHO maintains that the risk of international spread is very low. The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) in South Africa has emphasized vigilance without causing panic. Historically, the plague has been present globally, with significant cases in Africa and even the United States. The disease, while serious, is treatable with antibiotics if caught early.

The article discusses the challenges HIV-positive South African parents face in disclosing their status to their children. It highlights the Amagugu intervention, a program developed by the Human Sciences Research Council and the Africa Health Research Institute, which aids HIV-positive mothers in discussing their status with their HIV-negative children using age-appropriate methods. The intervention has shown positive outcomes, including increased disclosure rates, improved mental health for mothers and children, and reduced parenting stress. The article also touches on the broader impact of HIV on families and the importance of open communication.

The article discusses the challenges faced by HIV-positive parents in South Africa when disclosing their status to their children. Despite the availability of antiretroviral treatment and the reduction of mother-to-child transmission rates, many parents still struggle with the stigma and fear associated with HIV. The article highlights a program called Amagugu, developed by the Human Sciences Research Council and the Africa Health Research Institute, which assists HIV-positive mothers in communicating their status to their children using age-appropriate methods. The program has shown success, with participants reporting better mental health and increased adherence to treatment. The article also touches on the broader impact of a parent's HIV status on family dynamics and the importance of open communication for the well-being of both parents and children.

More than 100 people have died in Madagascar's plague outbreak, with the World Health Organisation urging vigilance as the majority of cases are the highly contagious pneumonic plague. In Tanzania, human rights groups condemned the arrest of a dozen people, including two South Africans, for promoting homosexuality, highlighting the government's crackdown on the LGBTI community. Former Lesotho army chief Tlali Kamoli was charged with murder related to a 2014 quasi-coup, amid ongoing instability in the country. Swaziland's parliament received a report suggesting that legalizing cannabis could significantly boost the nation's economy, potentially tripling its GDP.

The Democratic Republic of Congo's electoral commission has announced a further delay in elections, likely until 2019, extending President Joseph Kabila's rule past his term expiration in 2016. This has raised fears of increased violence and protests. Zimbabwe has created a new cybersecurity ministry, led by former finance minister Patrick Chinamasa, which has raised concerns among free speech activists. In Lesotho, former army chief Tlali Kamoli is being questioned by police regarding events during his leadership. Malawi has experienced vigilante murders over vampire accusations, resulting in seven deaths and prompting the UN to pull staff from affected districts and the government to impose a curfew.

Madagascar is intensifying efforts to combat a plague outbreak that has killed 33 and infected over 200, with schools and public buildings closed for disinfection. The outbreak, a mix of bubonic and pneumonic plague, has led to regional flight cancellations. In Mozambique, 16 people died in attacks on police stations, and the mayor of Nampula was assassinated. Zimbabwe's vice-president Emmerson Mnangagwa faces political attacks amid succession battles, while Tanzania's President John Magufuli revealed his modest salary, highlighting his anti-corruption stance.

Zimbabwe announced a crackdown on black market forex traders amid a cash crunch, with bond notes losing value and causing panic buying. Doctors threatened to strike if paid in bond notes, while the government blamed social media for the panic. Angola swore in João Lourenço as its new president, who faces the challenge of revitalizing an economy hit by falling oil prices. In Botswana, a court ruled in favor of a transgender man changing his gender on his ID, marking a significant step for LGBT rights in the country.

The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, located in Cape Town's Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, is set to open and is celebrated as the largest museum dedicated to contemporary art from the continent. The museum, housed in a transformed grain silo complex, features works by artists such as Athi-Patra Ruga and Edson Chagas. It aims to make art accessible to locals, with free entry for African passport holders every Wednesday. The museum's establishment in Cape Town has been met with some criticism due to the city's history of apartheid and gentrification, but artists like Thania Petersen see it as an opportunity for change and representation.

Cape Town's property boom is displacing long-time tenants like Marcus, who faces eviction due to rising housing costs and gentrification. Despite South Africa's slowing economy, Cape Town's property prices have surged, driven by an influx of families seeking better governance. Activists from Reclaim the City argue for more affordable housing near the city center, criticizing the current emergency resettlement options. The city plans to develop affordable housing sites, but tenants like Marcus remain uncertain about their future.

New evidence from Global Witness links Zimbabwe's military and intelligence agency to several companies operating in the Marange diamond fields, revealing a history of corruption and lack of transparency. The report highlights the involvement of state-owned entities and high-ranking officials in mismanaging diamond revenues, with significant funds unaccounted for. Despite government ownership and oversight, discrepancies in financial reports persist, and calls for greater transparency and accountability continue. The findings implicate five mining companies and underscore the need for Zimbabweans to know the true extent of diamond profits and their allocation.

Lesotho's army chief, Lieutenant-General Khoantle Motšomotšo, was murdered amid ongoing political and military instability, with the SADC condemning the killing and deploying a fact-finding mission. In Tanzania, opposition politician Tundu Lissu was shot by unknown assailants, prompting condemnation from the ruling party. In Angola, opposition parties challenged the election results after the National Electoral Commission confirmed a victory for the ruling MPLA, citing violations in the ballot-counting process.

In South Africa, the uptake of HIV self-testing is increasing, with a study in Khayelitsha showing significant interest in the 20-minute oral test, particularly among those who declined clinical testing. Despite the challenges of reaching men and linking HIV-positive individuals to care, organizations like Doctors Without Borders (MSF) and the Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute (Wits RHI) are actively researching and promoting self-testing as a means to close the testing gap. The South African Pharmacy Council lifted restrictions on selling HIV self-testing kits in 2015, and the World Health Organisation has prequalified the OraQuick oral test. The health department is developing guidelines for self-testing, and the HIV Self-Testing Africa (Star) initiative plans to distribute two million OraQuick tests. The goal is to provide the government with an investment case for self-testing post-donor funding, with studies showing a strong desire for privacy and autonomy in HIV testing.

Political tensions in Lesotho have escalated following a series of shootings involving the Lesotho Army. The situation has raised concerns about stability and governance in the country.

Former Lesotho deputy prime minister Mothetjoa Metsing fled to South Africa, citing threats to his life following a change in government. In Zimbabwe, Zanu-PF members rallied in support of Grace Mugabe amid allegations of assault, while the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission condemned police actions linked to her. Meanwhile, Zambia saw a significant influx of Congolese asylum-seekers, with the UN Refugee Agency highlighting the challenges in addressing the crisis. Oxfam noted the severe displacement in the DRC, calling for more international aid and attention.

Hakainde Hichilema and Democratic Alliance leader Mmusi Maimane call for an end to South Africa's quiet diplomacy, urging President Jacob Zuma to take a stronger stance on regional issues. They highlight Zambia's historical support during apartheid and criticize the ANC's recent diplomatic actions, including granting immunity to Zimbabwe's First Lady and failing to arrest Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir. Hichilema, recently released from imprisonment, emphasizes the broader implications of Zambia's political situation for the region.

Angola's election results in a predictable victory for the ruling MPLA, with Joao Lourenço set to become the new president amid concerns about his actual power due to the continued influence of outgoing President Jose Eduardo dos Santos. Zimbabwe faces a shortage of anti-retroviral drugs due to a cash crunch, risking setbacks in its fight against HIV. Japan sanctions Namibia over its ties with North Korea, highlighting Namibia's historical military cooperation with Pyongyang despite UN sanctions.

Zambian opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema, of the United Party for National Development, was released from prison after being detained for four months on treason charges following a traffic incident with President Edgar Lungu's motorcade. His arrest was widely criticized and sparked international concern, with some labeling Zambia a dictatorship. The release followed interventions by religious leaders and the international community, who urged dialogue between the political rivals to restore stability in Zambia. Hichilema faced harsh prison conditions and called for reforms in the justice system and electoral commission. The Commonwealth secretary-general Patricia Scotland has stated that both Lungu and Hichilema have committed to constructive talks, but the specifics of the dialogue are yet to be determined. Hichilema emphasized the need for a clear roadmap for addressing various issues but remained non-committal on whether he would recognize Lungu's presidency or withdraw his election petition.

Zambian opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema was released from jail to a jubilant reception and appears more popular following his arrest over a motorcade incident with President Edgar Lungu. The charges of treason were seen as an overreach by Lungu's government, which has been criticized for authoritarianism. Hichilema's release was facilitated by a deal brokered by churches and the Commonwealth, with international and regional bodies commending the move towards reconciliation. Despite the withdrawal of charges, Hichilema's legal troubles may not be over, as the government retains the option to re-arrest him for the same incident.

The Democratic Republic of Congo imposed social media restrictions following deadly anti-government riots, citing public safety concerns. Rights groups criticized the move as an attack on freedom of expression. In Mozambique, President Filipe Nyusi and opposition leader Afonso Dhlakama discussed steps towards lasting peace, garnering international praise. The Dalai Lama canceled his visit to Botswana due to health reasons, despite pressure from China for Botswana to deny him entry.

Stephen McGown, a South African held captive by al-Qaeda for nearly six years, was released and recounted his ordeal at a press conference. Despite the hardships, McGown maintained a positive outlook, focusing on survival and personal growth. His release, facilitated by the humanitarian organization Gift of the Givers, came after his family felt unsupported by the South African government. McGown expressed mixed emotions about missing his mother's passing but emphasized forgiveness and moving forward.

South African opposition figures Julius Malema and Mmusi Maimane have caused political tensions in Zambia, with Malema's comments drawing strong rebukes from the ruling Patriotic Front. In Malawi, an arrest warrant has been issued for former president Joyce Banda over the Cashgate corruption scandal. Zimbabwe's opposition parties have formed a coalition to support Morgan Tsvangirai in the upcoming election, while in the Democratic Republic of Congo, over 100 people were arrested during protests against election delays.

Frank Habineza, the Green Party candidate in Rwanda's presidential election, faced significant challenges on the campaign trail, including intimidation and limited campaigning opportunities. Despite these obstacles, Habineza remains optimistic about his support, although analysts widely agree that incumbent President Paul Kagame is set to win by a large margin. The article highlights the restricted democratic space in Rwanda and the symbolic nature of opposition participation in the election.

Swaziland has made significant progress in its fight against HIV/AIDS, with infection rates dropping from 31% in 2011 to 27% in 2016, attributed to increased use of antiretroviral drugs and male circumcision. In Zimbabwe, Grace Mugabe urged her husband, President Robert Mugabe, to name his successor, sparking controversy within the ruling Zanu-PF party. Meanwhile, a trade dispute between Tanzania and Kenya saw a brief resolution before restrictions were reimposed, affecting businesses on both sides.

Tanzania continues its political crackdown, while Malawi has jailed a former minister. The article highlights ongoing political and legal developments in these Southern African countries, focusing on government actions and their implications.

Tanzania's President John Magufuli has enacted new laws allowing the renegotiation of mining contracts, increasing royalties, and partially nationalizing projects, causing discontent among mining companies like AngloGold Ashanti. Zambia has extended a partial state of emergency, raising concerns about stifling dissent, while the Democratic Republic of Congo faces backlash over delayed elections. Botswana is warned by China over an upcoming visit by the Dalai Lama, highlighting tensions in international relations.

Zambia's President Edgar Lungu declared a partial state of emergency following a fire in Lusaka, granting authorities broad powers amid accusations of targeting the opposition. In Malawi, a stampede during independence day celebrations resulted in eight deaths after police fired tear gas into a crowd. Tanzanian opposition politician Halima Mdee was jailed for insulting President John Pombe Magufuli, highlighting the country's increasing autocratic measures. Angola's President Jose Eduardo dos Santos returned to Spain for a private visit, following previous medical treatment there.

Zambia's President Edgar Lungu declared a partial state of emergency, citing a series of fires as justification. He assured citizens that the move was to maintain law and order, not to target political opponents. Critics, including political analyst Laura Miti and Professor Nic Cheeseman, argue that the declaration grants excessive powers to the state, potentially undermining democracy and civil liberties. Lungu dismissed these concerns, framing them as unfounded attacks by wealthy critics. The declaration, if approved by the national assembly, would allow Lungu to consolidate power while avoiding the full implications of a state of emergency.

Zambian President Edgar Lungu declared a situation that may lead to a state of emergency, citing a series of fires and acts of vandalism as threats to national security and public order. The opposition United Party for National Development (UPND) leader Hakainde Hichilema is currently imprisoned on treason charges, and 48 UPND MPs are suspended, which raises questions about the timing of Lungu's declaration. Critics, including Jeffrey Smith of Vanguard Africa, view Lungu's actions as part of a troubling democratic reversal in Zambia.

The International Criminal Court ruled unanimously that South Africa failed to comply with its duty to arrest Omar al-Bashir during his 2015 visit for an African Union summit, despite South Africa's claim of his immunity as a head of state. The ICC dismissed South Africa's defense, stating that legal obligations cannot be set aside due to disagreement with a court's determination. South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation is seeking legal opinion on the ruling, while the ANC maintains that not arresting al-Bashir was in the best interests of African states. The DA expressed concern over the ANC's intent to withdraw from the ICC. South Africa's Supreme Court of Appeals had previously ruled that the country was obliged to arrest al-Bashir, and the ICC now considers the matter closed, although it acknowledged the futility of referring the matter to the UN General Assembly or Security Council.

Zambian President Edgar Lungu declared a situation that may lead to a state of emergency, citing a series of fires and acts of vandalism. The declaration, which must be approved by a majority in the National Assembly, comes as 48 opposition MPs are suspended, and UPND leader Hakainde Hichilema is jailed on treason charges. Critics, including Jeffrey Smith of Vanguard Africa, view Lungu's actions as a sign of democratic backsliding in Zambia.

Zambian President Edgar Lungu declared a situation that may lead to a state of emergency, citing a series of fires and acts of vandalism as threats to national security. The opposition United Party for National Development (UPND) is currently weakened with its members suspended from parliament and its leader, Hakainde Hichilema, jailed on treason charges. Critics, including Jeffrey Smith of Vanguard Africa, view Lungu's actions as part of a troubling democratic reversal in Zambia. The ruling Patriotic Front has been in power since 2011, and Lungu assures that law-abiding citizens will not be affected by the proclamation.

Grace Mugabe's trip to South Africa to address her sons' accommodation issues contrasts sharply with the plight of hundreds of Zimbabwean students who were expelled from their university residences following a fees protest. Activist Makomborero Haruzivishe condemns the Mugabe family's privileged lifestyle, which stands in stark contrast to the students' struggle for affordable education. A court order eventually allowed the students to return, but only after significant delays and threats of legal action.

Pastor and activist Evan Mawarire was arrested in Zimbabwe for participating in a protest against rising university fees, charged with disorderly conduct, and released two days later. Tanzania plans to proceed with a controversial hydropower plant in a World Heritage site, despite opposition from Unesco. Malawi opened the world's first humanitarian drone corridor to improve crisis monitoring and supply delivery, overcoming initial local resistance.

The United Kingdom faced a significant defeat at the United Nations when a resolution to block a discussion on the legality of the UK's claim over the Chagos Islands was overwhelmingly defeated with a vote of 94 to 15. Mauritius, which has been fighting to regain control of the archipelago, saw this as a turning point in their decolonization efforts. The UK insists on bilateral talks, while Mauritius and its supporters seek an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice. The UK's position was supported by few, with major partners being the US, Australia, and Israel, while many countries abstained. The outcome was seen as a moment of African unity and a blow to the UK's international prestige. The legal process is expected to take around 18 months, and while an advisory opinion is not binding, it will influence how the UK is viewed in terms of its adherence to international commitments.

Thomas Thabane was inaugurated as Lesotho's prime minister shortly after his estranged wife's murder, amid political tension and conspiracy theories. In Zambia, 48 opposition MPs were suspended for boycotting President Edgar Lungu's speech, with the government facing accusations of authoritarianism. Over 900 inmates escaped from a prison in the Democratic Republic of Congo following a gunman attack, highlighting ongoing violence in the region. Mozambique faced backlash for spending nearly $4 million on luxury cars for lawmakers despite a looming liquidity crisis.

The Supreme Court of Appeals' decision to rescind Kayumba Nyamwasa's refugee status opens a window for Spanish investigators seeking his extradition on charges of war crimes, terrorism, genocide, and crimes against humanity. Nyamwasa, a former Rwandan general, has faced multiple assassination attempts and legal challenges since fleeing Rwanda. Spanish authorities have pursued his extradition since 2008, but changes in jurisdiction laws and South Africa's previous non-cooperation hindered progress. The ANC remains opposed to European prosecution of Africans, complicating potential extradition. Nyamwasa's future remains uncertain as legal and political maneuvers continue.

The article discusses significant political changes and events in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. It highlights the ousting of Mosisili in Lesotho, the political reshuffling involving Hichilema in Zambia, and the ban on Zimbabwean birds. These developments reflect ongoing political dynamics and regulatory actions within the region.

Lesotho held elections for the third time in five years following the collapse of Prime Minister Pakalitha Mosisili's coalition. Former Prime Minister Tom Thabane is confident of victory but may need to form a coalition. The Democratic Republic of Congo approved the use of an experimental Ebola vaccine, rVSV-ZEBOV, amid its eighth outbreak, though logistical challenges remain. Angola's President Jose Eduardo Dos Santos returned home after medical treatment in Spain, dispelling rumors about his health. Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe launched his election campaign, receiving enthusiastic support from youth and veterans.

Lesotho's snap election saw an unexpected military presence, with soldiers lingering near voting stations, causing unease among voters and officials. The election followed the collapse of Prime Minister Pakalitha Mosisili's coalition and a no-confidence vote. Major contenders included Mosisili and his former ally Thomas Thabane. Despite the unsettling military presence, voter turnout was driven by a strong desire for change. The Independent Electoral Commission had aimed for an 85% turnout, though this was ambitious given the country's history. By Sunday, the military presence had dissipated, and the city was bustling as vote counting continued.

Democratic Alliance leader Mmusi Maimane was denied entry to Zambia to attend the treason trial of opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema. Tanzanian President John Magufuli fired his mining minister Sospeter Muhongo after a report claimed mining companies were understating export values. Canadian mining firm Acacia's stocks fell due to a ban on mineral sands exports in Tanzania. Over 900,000 people in the Democratic Republic of Congo fled their homes in 2016 due to conflict, surpassing displacement numbers in Syria and Iraq. The SADC warned Lesotho to accept the results of its upcoming election, marking the third vote in five years.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, former Ethiopian health minister, has been elected as the new director-general of the World Health Organization (WHO), marking the first time an African has held the post. His immediate challenges include restoring WHO's reputation after its criticized response to the 2014 Ebola epidemic and securing funding for emergency responses. Tedros' previous experience as Ethiopia's health and foreign minister, as well as his role in the Global Fund to Fight Aids, Tuberculosis and Malaria, may prove beneficial. Key stakeholders emphasize the need for WHO to prioritize its focus and improve its emergency response capabilities.

Representatives from the World Health Organisation (WHO) traveled to the Democratic Republic of the Congo to assess an Ebola outbreak that has killed three people. The outbreak, the DRC's eighth, has raised global concerns reminiscent of the 2014 West Africa epidemic. In Zambia, opposition politician Hakainde Hichilema was acquitted of insulting police officers but still faces treason charges. Angola's first daughter Isabel dos Santos denied rumors about President Jose Eduardo dos Santos's health, while opposition parties demand transparency. Lesotho prepares for its third election in five years, and Mozambique shows signs of recovery from its debt scandal.

The conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo's Kasai-Central province, initially sparked by the death of traditional leader Jean-Pierre Mpandi, has escalated into widespread violence involving disaffected youth and militia groups. The region, traditionally an opposition stronghold, suffers from poor human development indicators and lack of investment. The conflict has led to significant displacement, human rights abuses, and a destabilized region with no clear control. The government's failure to hold elections and loss of legitimacy are seen as contributing factors.