Africa United News

AFRICA THIS WEEK. Top Headlines & Highlights:

"Rapture This Weekend?” South African Pastor Sparks Global Buzz

A viral prophecy from Pastor Joshua Mhlakela claims Jesus will return on September 23–24, aligning with Rosh Hashanah. TikTok’s #RaptureTok explodes with reactions—some believers are quitting jobs, others joke about pets being raptured too.

Malawi’s Power Shift? Mutharika Leads Early Polls

Former President Peter Mutharika edges ahead of incumbent Lazarus Chakwera in early polling. The race could reshape regional politics and democratic momentum.

Guinea Votes: Civilian Rule on the Horizon?

Guinea’s constitutional referendum may mark a turning point toward civilian governance after years of military dominance. Voter turnout and international response remain key.

Congo’s Crisis: Prosthetic Demand Surges Amid Violence

Eastern Congo’s conflict has led to a spike in amputations. Prosthetic production jumped from 422 in all of 2024 to 326 in just six months of 2025.

Green Tech Rising: Africa’s Youth Lead the Charge

Youth-led startups in green energy and tech are booming across Africa. Japan invests heavily ahead of TICAD9, betting on African innovation to drive global sustainability.

WORLD THIS WEEK. Top Global Headlines & Highlights:

Afghanistan Earthquake: Over 1,100 Dead, 3,500 Injured

A powerful quake struck Jalalabad, leaving devastation across Nangarhar province. Rescue efforts are hampered by damaged infrastructure and limited aid access.

Sudan’s Cholera Crisis Deepens Amid Civil War

Over 3,000 deaths reported as cholera spreads across all 18 states. The WHO launched a vaccination drive in North Darfur, but conflict blocks access to clean water and care.

Duterte Faces ICC Charges for Crimes Against Humanity

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is detained in The Hague, accused of ordering extrajudicial killings from 2013–2018. Supporters dispute the court’s jurisdiction.

Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger Quit ICC Over “Selective Justice"

Military juntas in three African nations announce withdrawal from the International Criminal Court, citing bias and pledging local alternatives.

UN General Assembly Opens Amid Humanitarian Funding Crisis

Only 9% of the $47B global aid request is funded. UN leaders warn of a “crisis of morale and legitimacy” in the humanitarian sector.

World Economy Faces AI & Trade Tensions

Chief economists warn of rising uncertainty driven by policy shifts, inflation, and rapid advances in artificial intelligence.

AFRICA BUSINESS THIS WEEK. Top Headlines & Highlight:

Canal+ Completes MultiChoice Buyout—Media Giant Emerges

French broadcaster Canal+ has officially acquired all outstanding shares in MultiChoice, forming a global media powerhouse with 40M+ subscribers across Africa, Europe, and Asia.

AGOA Expiry Looms—African Exporters Scramble for Bilateral Deals

The U.S. trade pact AGOA is set to expire, threatening duty-free access for African textiles and produce. Kenya and others are racing to secure alternative agreements.

South African Business Unity Challenges Equity Targets in Court

Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) has filed a legal challenge against new Employment Equity sector targets, calling them unconstitutional and economically harmful.

Unstoppable Africa Summit Positions Continent as Global Growth Engine

Held in New York alongside the UN General Assembly, the GABI summit showcased Africa’s leadership in energy, fintech, fashion, and AI. The message: Africa isn’t adapting—it’s leading.

Palatin Biotech Scores $6.5M Milestone in Retinal Treatment Deal

African biotech startup Palatin Technologies earns a major payout from Boehringer Ingelheim, validating its retinal disease platform and attracting investor attention.

South Africa–Algeria Trade Pact

A new agreement between South Africa and Algeria aims to establish trade routes and improve market access, strengthening bilateral ties.

AFRICA SPORTS THIS WEEK. Top Headlines & Highlight:

🇲🇦 Morocco Tops Africa in FIFA Rankings

Morocco leads all African nations in the latest FIFA rankings, sitting at #11 globally. Senegal, Egypt, Algeria, and Ivory Coast round out the top five.

🇬🇭 Ghana’s Black Stars Under Fire After World Cup Stumble

After a shaky 1–1 draw with Chad and a narrow win over Mali, Ghana’s Sports Minister slammed coach Otto Addo, warning that World Cup qualification is still uncertain.

🌍 U20 World Cup Kicks Off in Chile—Four African Nations Compete

The FIFA U20 World Cup begins September 27 in Chile, with four African teams vying for glory. Group stages are set across Santiago, Valparaíso, and more.

🇿🇦 South Africa’s Sports Minister Accused of Illegal Funding Cuts.

Gayton McKenzie faces backlash from SASCOC for slashing grants to sports federations by up to 60%. Critics say the move violates national law and threatens Olympic prep.

Kenya & Botswana Shine at World Athletics Championships

Kenya won 7 golds, including Beatrice Chebet’s double in the 5,000m and 10,000m. Botswana made history by winning the 4x400m relay, beating the U.S. with a national record.

Cricket: Proteas Women Shine

- Marizanne Kapp and Tazmin Brits hit unbeaten centuries to lead South

Africa’s women’s team to an eight

-wicket win over Pakistan in the first ODI.

- Rain washed out the T20 series decider between England and South Africa at Trent Bridge.

Mountain Biking: Alan Hatherly Defends World Title

- South Africa’s Alan Hatherly successfully defended his elite men’s cross-country title at the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike World Championship.

AFRICAN ENTERTAINMENT THIS WEEK. Top Headlines & Highlights:

Tebogo G Mashego’s Nigeria Drama Sparks Industry Debate

The “Biri Marung” hitmaker went viral after pleading for donations to return home from Nigeria, where he was stranded and allegedly mistreated. He accused DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small of owing him royalties, igniting backlash and support across the Amapiano scene. Tyler ICU and Young Stunna defended Maphorisa, while fans debated artist exploitation and industry gatekeepin.

Ciza Crowned Billboard’s African Rookie of the Month

South African artist Ciza dominates global dance floors with “Isaka (6am),” earning Billboard’s top rookie spot. Born into music royalty, he’s now carving his own lane in Afrobeats and Afro house.

Mr Eazi & Temi Otedola’s Wedding Wows John Legend

The Nigerian power couple’s lavish ceremony earned praise from John Legend and Vogue. Guests say it felt like “a celebration of whole Nigerian families”.

BBNaija Evictions Shake Biggie’s House

Joanna, Kuture, Thelma Lawson, and Bright Morgan were evicted in a dramatic weekend twist. Host Ebuka grilled contestants on alliances and controversies.

De General Becomes First African Kung Fu Master

Nigerian comedian De General stuns fans by earning a Kung Fu master title and welcoming students from China.

2Baba Turns 50—President Tinubu Joins the Celebration

Nigeria’s President serenades 2Baba on his milestone birthday, calling him “African Queen to the world”.

Dj Cuppy Reflects on Love Life: “I Remind God When I See Wedding Photos”

The Nigerian DJ shares a candid moment about longing and faith, sparking heartfelt reactions online.