Eye on Africa

MOGADISHU — Somalia has canceled its defense and security agreements with the United Arab Emirates, a move the government said Friday was necessary to protect the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and public safety while keeping broader diplomatic ties intact. Information, Culture and Tourism Minister Daud Aweys Jama said the termination applies strictly to military and security cooperation frameworks between Mogadishu and Abu Dhabi. He argued the arrangements had become more harmful than helpful to Somalia’s…

National Disaster Declared Amid Deadly Floods in Southern Africa South Africa and Mozambique are grappling with devastating floods that have claimed lives and displaced thousands. Authorities in both countries are working tirelessly to respond to this catastrophic event. Severe flooding declared a national disaster in South Africa. Heavy rains have affected Mozambique, with entire neighborhoods submerged. Rescue efforts are ongoing as both nations strive to recover and assist survivors. Impact in South Africa…

The Destructive Floods Devastating Mozambique Severe flooding in Mozambique’s Gaza province has forced over 300,000 people from their homes, causing widespread devastation. The situation, exacerbated by weeks of torrential rain, has submerged significant portions of the region. Over 40% of Gaza province is underwater. 327,000 displaced residents are sheltering in temporary sites. President Daniel Chapo canceled a trip to Davos due to the crisis. Humanitarian Crisis and Evacuations With authorities striving to…

Sudan's Civil War: A Troubled Path to Peace Sudan's military leadership is reviewing a new proposal by the United States and Saudi Arabia to establish a humanitarian truce and broader cease-fire. This potential diplomatic breakthrough comes as the country approaches 1,000 days of conflict. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) received the initiative, which focuses on humanitarian relief. The Security and Defence Council, including military and civilian figures, met to discuss it. The proposal aims to operationalize…

The Impact of Prolonged School Closures in Sudan Sudan faces an alarming educational crisis as millions of children remain out of school due to ongoing conflict. This section explores the core issues contributing to one of the world's longest school closures. Over eight million children in Sudan face nearly 500 days without formal education. Conflict between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) hinders educational access. Schools are either closed, damaged, or repurposed as shelters, particularly in…

Algerian Parliament Criminalizes French Colonization Algeria's parliament has passed legislation condemning French colonial rule, marking a significant step in the country's historical narrative. However, lawmakers stopped short of demanding compensation or an official apology from France. The law was unanimously approved by the upper house, the Council of the Nation. 12 articles concerning compensation and apology were reserved for further revision. Legislation was already approved by the lower house on Dec. 24.…

UN mission, UK back Somalia’s plan for inclusive election talks as tensions mount Friday January 23, 2026 MOGADISHU — The United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) has welcomed the Somali federal government’s decision to convene a national consultative forum and formally invite the Somali Future Council, a leading opposition alliance, as political tensions rise over the country’s electoral timeline. In a statement Wednesday, the UN mission reaffirmed its support for an inclusive political dialogue…

Severe Malnutrition Claims Over 600 Child Lives in Kebbi, Nigeria More than 600 children have died from severe malnutrition in the northwestern state of Kebbi between January and September 2025, according to data from the state nutrition office. Health officials attribute the devastating rise in deaths to widespread misconceptions among residents, who often ascribe malnutrition to “spiritual attacks.” This misconception has resulted in delayed access to life-saving treatment, exacerbating the crisis. The impact of…

Somalia approves regional maritime safety pact, gains authority to inspect foreign ships MOGADISHU — Somalia’s Council of Ministers on Thursday approved a regional maritime safety agreement that will allow the country to inspect foreign vessels, enforce international shipping standards and better protect its 3,300-kilometer coastline, marking a significant step in rebuilding oversight of a long-neglected maritime sector. The Cabinet endorsed a Memorandum of Understanding among Port State Control authorities in the Indian…

Senegal’s Dramatic AFCON Final: A Clash of Emotion and Controversy The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Senegal's Teranga Lions and hosts Morocco will be remembered for three things: officiating, raw emotion, and a historic protest. This gripping encounter not only showcased the competitive spirit of African football but also raised questions about the integrity of officiating in such high-stakes games. In a moment that stunned spectators and players alike, Senegal's head coach Pape Thiaw ordered his team…