Africa in Focus: Key Stories from September 16, 2026

U.S. Imposes Visa Restrictions Over South Africa

The United States has introduced visa restrictions targeting individuals it accuses of engaging in race-based discrimination against South Africa’s white minority, further straining relations between Washington and Pretoria. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the measures would apply to those involved in inciting violence or facilitating land confiscation without compensation, though no specific individuals were named. South Africa has consistently dismissed US allegations of discrimination, asserting that its land reform policies are designed to rectify inequalities inherited from the apartheid era and do not permit the arbitrary seizure of property. The US embassy in Pretoria described the visa measures as the initial step in a potential series of escalatory actions, while South Africa has sought to defuse tensions through diplomatic channels.

DR Congo Protests Tshisekedi Constitutional Plans

Law enforcement officials in the Democratic Republic of Congo deployed tear gas and made arrests as protests erupted across multiple cities against President Felix Tshisekedi’s proposed constitutional amendments. Opposition parties, united under the C64 coalition, have rallied against the changes, which they argue could enable Tshisekedi to pursue a third term. Violent clashes broke out between opposition and pro-government supporters in Kinshasa, while police moved to disperse demonstrations that had been prohibited by local authorities. Similar protests were reported in Lubumbashi and Mbandaka, where activists defied demonstration bans before being dispersed by security forces. Opposition leaders accused the authorities of conducting arbitrary arrests, while police maintained they were acting to preserve public order. The proposed constitutional changes come amid ongoing conflict in the country’s east, including clashes involving the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group. The opposition has also dismissed Tshisekedi’s offer of national dialogue, alleging he intends to use it to consolidate his hold on power.

South African President Vows Justice As More Women’s Bodies Found in Kempton Park

South African authorities are investigating the deaths of eight women whose bodies have been discovered at various locations in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, since July. Several of the victims were found naked or partially clothed, and some exhibited signs of possible sexual assault, raising fears that the cases may be linked. Police have not confirmed whether a serial killer is responsible but are exploring whether a single individual or a group could be behind the deaths. One suspect remains in custody following the discovery of the first body. The latest findings have prompted warnings for women in the area to avoid walking or jogging alone, particularly in remote areas. President Cyril Ramaphosa has directed police to give the investigations top priority, while Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia stated that the deaths must not go unpunished. The killings have heightened concerns over South Africa’s ongoing crisis of gender-based violence, as authorities have yet to determine whether the cases are connected.

Algeria Faces Pressure Over Death Penalty Expansion

Amnesty International has called on Algeria to reverse plans to broaden the application of the death penalty following devastating wildfires that swept through parts of the country. President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has ordered revisions to the Penal Code to introduce capital punishment for those convicted of deliberately starting or instigating fires, and has indicated the measure could also be extended to cases of child abduction and abuse. Algeria has not carried out an execution since 1993, although courts continue to hand down death sentences. Amnesty argued that the wildfire response should prioritize prevention, emergency preparedness, and independent investigations into all factors contributing to the loss of life, rather than expanding the use of capital punishment. The organization also expressed concern over the application of terrorism-related charges carrying the death penalty against individuals accused of involvement in the fires. Amnesty urged Algeria to ensure fair trials and accountability while considering the role of climate change and shortcomings in disaster preparedness.

Boko Haram Rejects Nigeria Ceasefire Claims in New Video

Boko Haram has refuted reports claiming it had reached a ceasefire agreement with the Nigerian government, labeling the claims as untrue. In a video statement, the group’s Sharia judge, Mallam Abdulrahman, said its leadership had not agreed to any truce, though he acknowledged that reconciliation could be possible under Islamic principles. He accused the Nigerian government of deceiving the public and called on fighters not to be discouraged by reports of a ceasefire. The denial came amid reports that the government had secretly reached an agreement with a faction led by Bakura Doro, reportedly linked to negotiations for the release of over 300 civilians abducted in Borno State in March. Those reports alleged the deal had been in place since June and involved a ransom payment, which the government has denied. Nigerian officials have not confirmed the existence of any ceasefire, with the presidency directing inquiries to the National Security Adviser or Defence Ministry.

WHO Reports Active Mpox Transmission in 11 African Nations

The World Health Organization reported that 11 African countries recorded active mpox transmission during the six-week period ending 16 August 2026, with 1,153 confirmed cases and seven deaths. Madagascar accounted for the highest number of cases at 785, followed by Angola with 184, Kenya with 94, the Democratic Republic of Congo with 41, and Cameroon with 28. WHO said weekly confirmed cases have remained relatively steady at around 200, though reporting delays and reduced surveillance suggest the true figures may be higher. These numbers are part of a broader outbreak that has affected 35 African countries since January 2025, with more than 52,000 confirmed cases and 238 deaths recorded across the continent by 16 August 2026. Madagascar remains the primary concern, with WHO describing its outbreak as the largest globally and in Africa since December 2025. Despite Africa CDC ending its continental public health emergency declaration in January, WHO said mpox continues to pose a significant health threat and has extended its standing recommendations through August 2027.

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