Central Africa

This past weekend, regional dignitaries from southern and eastern Africa gathered in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's bustling capital. Their agenda? To address the increasingly perilous situation unfolding in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). There, M23 rebels have rapidly seized control of significant territories in a region blessed with abundant minerals. But can mere discussions truly pave the way for peace amidst such turmoil? Experts observing the proceedings noted a deeply entrenched discord among the leaders,…

The summit in Tanzania was a convergence of distinguished figures, uniting the leaders of both the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community. Africa's illuminated heads of state gathered, not just to exchange pleasantries, but to address the escalating calamity in the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Their unified resolution was clear: military leaders would convene within a mere half-decade to chart the course for an instantaneous and unequivocal cessation of hostilities. The…

The elusive quest to dismantle the Islamic State network threaded through the rugged terrain of north-eastern Somalia requires resilience and acute caution. Yet, such an assignment must negotiate the subtlety of mountainous hideouts against an adversary thriving in shadows. Unyielding and stoic, these militants persist, shaping the narrative of extremism in Africa's complex tapestry. In an audacious move, former U.S. President Donald Trump struck with characteristic bravado—a hallmark reminiscent of his tenure. Following an…

In a decisive and urgent response to a severe cholera outbreak, health authorities in Angola are gearing up to vaccinate one million individuals, encompassing both children and adults. This strategic initiative aims to thwart the spread of this potentially deadly disease, which has already claimed 59 lives and infected 1,710 people across several provinces. Since the onset of the outbreak in early January 2025, the numbers have been alarming, particularly in Luanda, where 37 cases have been reported. The provinces of Bengo,…

GOMA, Democratic Republic of Congo — In a region teetering on the brink, uncertainty looms large as Rwanda-backed rebels, involved in a fierce struggle in the Democratic Republic of Congo's illustrious east, have surprisingly declared a ceasefire. The city of Goma, an urban sprawl of over two million souls, stands at the center of this turmoil. With Monday’s declaration, the rebels surprisingly took a step back, professing humanitarian motives and responding to pleas for the creation of a safe corridor for displaced…

In Mayotte—an archipelago encumbered by its dreams yet stung by reality—a haunting scenario unfolds for hundreds of Somali migrants who embarked on what seemed like a journey to a European El Dorado. Coaxing promises from shifty smugglers turned to ash as these voyagers landed not in prosperity but in destitution, with shadows of deportation threats looming ominously. Is hope that elusive mirage they dare chase across harsh terrains and unforgiving seas? Our tale begins with human traffickers weaving dreams in the minds of…

In an unexpected turn of events, the acclaimed Nigerian artist Tems, recognized globally for her Grammy-winning talents, has opted to cancel her highly anticipated “Born in the Wild” tour performance in Rwanda. This decision, grounded in complex geopolitical realities, spotlights the nuanced interplay between art and international conflict. Tems was set to grace the stage at the BK Arena in Kigali on March 22, 2025, a date that many fans had circled in red ink on their calendars. The excitement surrounding her performance…

At the Gisenyi border point of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a scene rife with tension unfolds as rebels from the March 23 Movement (M23) assert their dominance. Supported by Rwanda, the M23 rebels are tightening their hold on Goma, the largest city in eastern DRC, marking a severe setback for the Congolese army and escalating a conflict that has, over the years, cost countless lives and displaced millions. The M23, infamous for their strategic maneuvers, made their entrance into Goma on a rather somber…

In a remarkable stride for public health, the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially applauded Guinea for its success in eradicating human African trypanosomiasis, more commonly known as sleeping sickness. This milestone is more than just a line on the achievement chart; it marks the first time a neglected tropical disease has been wiped out in the country, shining brightly as a beacon of hope amidst ongoing global health challenges. Coincidentally, this announcement was made on World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day,…

President Paul Kagame has firmly rejected the assertions made by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa concerning the turmoil in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In a spirited response, Kagame accused Ramaphosa of twisting the narrative surrounding their discussions. This heated exchange comes on the heels of Goma, a strategic city, falling under the control of M23 rebels, a move that has sent shockwaves through the region. With a tone that resonated with frustration, Kagame did not pull any punches when addressing…