Great replies, folks!
As for the photo thing, it's a damn shame. I only really photograph food and architecture, and have been yelled at for doing both (in Beirut, and Sandton of all places). Walking is fun, but the photos are for friends and family who wouldn't even think to visit _____.
Nevertheless, it seems like Dakar, Kigali, and Stone Town are safe and worthy of exploring solo, and that I should have a contact on the ground in Lagos. As for Maputo, I'd love to go for the piri-piri and to see the train station, but is there much else (in other words, is Beira the more recommended place?)?