Ghana LGBTQ+ crackdown: Ghana’s parliament passed a bill that would impose prison terms of up to 10 years for people who promote, sponsor or advocate LGBTQ+ activities, with three-year terms for those engaging in LGBTQ acts, and bans funding for LGBTQ groups. The law is expected to be signed by President John Dramani Mahama, reviving a 2024 version that expired without his predecessor’s signature. South Africa-Gulf diplomacy: South Africa is seeking billions from Gulf oil states to revive a struggling economy, even as it balances closer ties with Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar alongside BRICS engagement and continued alignment with Iran. Western Sahara diplomacy: Morocco urged UN bodies to stop keeping the Sahara dispute on the UN Committee of 24 agenda, pointing to UN Security Council Resolution 2797 and the Autonomy plan, while Algeria reaffirmed its principles for a “just and lasting” settlement. Mauritania in the spotlight: Mauritania’s prime minister attended Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s annual Hajj reception in Mina, reflecting Nouakchott’s regional ties during the pilgrimage season. Saharan dust forecast: Meteorologists warn Saharan dust could return across the Atlantic, reaching the Caribbean and possibly the United States in the coming weeks, with Mauritania, Senegal and Mali in the dust path. Eid al-Adha in Qatar: Qatar-based Arab and Muslim communities highlighted Eid’s values of generosity and coexistence, with preparations and charity central to celebrations.