The International Crisis Group (ICG) has highlighted three critical conflicts in Africa that are poised to carry into 2026, following a tumultuous year marred by violence and instability. The ICG’s “conflicts to watch” report names Sudan, Ethiopia and Eritrea, and the volatile situation in Mali and Burkina Faso as focal points that require immediate international attention.
Having faced a devastating escalation in violence throughout 2025, these regions find themselves at a pivotal juncture. Sudan, under the shadow of a power struggle among military factions, has experienced widespread displacement and humanitarian crises. The ongoing conflict, which erupted into civil war, continues to threaten the lives of millions and undermines regional stability.
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Meanwhile, Ethiopia’s Tigray region remains a flashpoint. While a peace agreement was reached in late 2022, the situation remains fragile. Ethnic tensions, governance issues, and sporadic violence indicate that the road to lasting peace is fraught with challenges. The resilience of local communities, however, provides a glimmer of hope, as many continue to push for reconciliation and development amid despair.
In Eritrea, the government’s repressive measures have stifled dissent, leading to a stagnant socio-political environment. Despite a backdrop of international scrutiny, Eritrea’s leadership has been slow to enact reforms, contributing to an atmosphere of severe human rights violations and economic hardships that affect the population.
The Sahel region, particularly Mali and Burkina Faso, faces its own unique challenges, as extremist groups exploit governance vacuums and public discontent. With rising violence against civilians and military personnel alike, both countries are grappling with the dual threats of terrorism and political instability. The ICG underscores the urgency of enhancing international cooperation to address these intertwined crises.
According to the ICG, timely intervention and sustained diplomatic efforts are paramount to mitigating the impacts of these conflicts. The report emphasizes that without proactive measures from the global community, 2026 may witness an escalation of violence and further displacement of populations in Africa.
As nations worldwide observe these developments, the call to action is clear: concerted efforts are needed to support peacebuilding initiatives and humanitarian assistance, while fostering dialogue among conflicting parties. In the face of adversity, the people of Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Mali, and Burkina Faso continue to seek stability and hope for a better future.
The ICG’s report serves as a grim reminder that peace in these regions is not merely a local affair but a global concern that warrants attention and collaboration from all corners of the world.
By Omer Aden
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
