News updates from the African continent for June 27th, 2025:
Togo soldiers break up protests against longtime leader
Soldiers in Togo used tear gas and batons on Thursday to disperse hundreds of protesters who blocked main roads in the capital to call for the resignation of longtime leader Faure Gnassingbe.
The gathering organised by bloggers and activists highlighted persisting political strife in Togo, where last month Gnassingbe was given the powerful new role of President of the Council of Ministers that has no fixed term limit.
Gnassingbe, whose family has ruled the West African nation since 1967, had previously served for two decades as president, and opposition parties have described his new appointment as a “constitutional coup” that could extend his rule for life.
Source: Reuters
UK backs Backs Off From Renewable Energy Project to Transport Energy Underwater from Morocco
The United Kingdom has stepped back from a project to transmit power generated by North Africa’s winds and sun via underwater cables and is pivoting to other projects seen as less risky.
The country’s Energy Security Department said in a statement that they would no longer support the $33 billion project due to a “high level of inherent risk, related to both delivery and security.
Source: Associated Press
Faith Kipyegon falls short of historic sub-four minute mile but vows to keep pushing
Three-time Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon gave her all in an audacious attempt to become the first woman to break the four-minute mile barrier.
Though she narrowly missed the mark, finishing in 4 minutes, 06.42 seconds, Kipyegon walked away proud of her effort and more determined than ever.
The race, dubbed “Breaking4: Faith Kipyegon vs. the 4-Minute Mile,” was organized by Nike as an unofficial event and won’t count towards official records.
Still, Kipyegon’s time was faster than her existing world record of 4:07.64, set in Monaco nearly two years ago.
Source: Africa News
