Eye on Africa

The Southwest State officials accused unnamed federal government figures of maintaining links with al-Shabab and arming militias in Buur Hakaba and that deepening tensions with Mogadishu. Authorities in Baidoa said in statements and public remarks that some federal ministers and lawmakers were involved in organizing and supplying armed groups actively in Buur Hakaba district of Bay region. Southwest Security Minister Hassan Abdulkadir asserted that the fighters operating there are not part of recognized state forces…

Rwanda’s teenage pregnancy rate rose to 8% in 2025 from 5% in 2020, according to the Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey, prompting warnings from health authorities about school dropouts, maternal health risks and reduced economic prospects for girls. Health authorities in Rwanda warned that the rising rate of teenage pregnancy is contributing to students leaving school, increased maternal health risks and limited economic opportunities for young women. The Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey reported that prevalence…

Niger has summoned the European Union's chargé d'affaires in response to a parliamentary resolution demanding the release of ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. The Nigerien government criticized what it described as the EU's "paternalistic and condescending attitude." The European Parliament's resolution asserted that Bazoum, who assumed office in 2021 following an electoral victory, remains Niger's democratically elected leader. Analysts indicate that Bazoum's strong connections with France, the former colonial power, may…

The Zimbabwe Peace Project reported more than 100 human rights violations affecting 3,205 people across Zimbabwe in February 2026. In its latest report, the watchdog said the cases spanned severe abuses — including torture, assault, enforced disappearances and abductions — as well as infringements on civil and political rights. The group said members of the ruling Zanu PF party were responsible for 35.46% of incidents, largely through political intimidation, coercion and interference with fundamental freedoms. It added that…

Southwest State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen resigned from the Justice and Solidarity Party led by Somalia’s president, in the latest sign of escalating tensions with the federal government. Laftagareen, who had served as the party’s deputy chairman, announced his departure on March 18, 2026. “I, President of Southwest State H.E. Abdiaziz Laftagareen, resign as Deputy Chairman of the JSP effective today, March 18, 2026. I cannot support unconstitutional actions that weaken our unity. My commitment remains to…

Somalia’s Interior Ministry said Wednesday it is monitoring escalating tensions with Southwest State and warned that continued political friction could endanger peace and stability. In a statement, the Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs and Reconciliation voiced concern about the dispute’s impact and underscored the need to uphold the constitution and the federal system of governance. “The federal government commends the people and administration of the Southwest State for their role in preserving the unity of the…

Southwest State senators back suspension of ties with Mogadishu Senators from Somalia’s Southwest State on Tuesday endorsed their administration’s decision to suspend cooperation with the federal government, accusing Mogadishu of interference in regional political and security affairs. By Ali MusaAxadle Times international–Monitoring Wednesday March 18, 2026 In a joint statement, the Upper House lawmakers said the move by the Southwest administration responds to actions by federal authorities that they say have undermined…

Caf Overturns Controversial Final Outcome Played in Rabat The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reversed a prior decision regarding the outcome of the contentious final held in Rabat. CAF confirmed in a statement that the decision was taken in line with its regulations, overturning the earlier outcome of the controversial final played in Rabat. Details surrounding the match and the specific reasons for the reversal have not been disclosed. The previous decision sparked widespread debates among fans and…

Activists challenge official assurances after study flags hormone-disrupting chemicals in menstrual products Activists say dismissing a University of the Free State finding does not equal proof of safety, urging clarity on possible risks in menstrual products. Activists said authorities’ assurances on menstrual product safety do not settle concerns raised by research from the University of the Free State that reported hormone-disrupting chemicals in some items. The University of the Free State, a South African public…

Zimbabwe civic group urges international bodies to block bid to extend presidency and Parliament terms The Defend the Constitution Platform called on international organisations to stop proposed constitutional changes that would extend the tenure of Zimbabwe’s presidency and Parliament, citing reports of intimidation and violence around the debate. The Defend the Constitution Platform has urged international organisations to block planned amendments to Zimbabwe’s constitution that would lengthen the terms of the presidency…