Central Africa

Malaria Resurgence: Unpacking the Challenges and Future Directions in Africa For nearly a decade, the specter of malaria retreated across several African nations, offering a glimmer of hope that perhaps, just perhaps, we could outsmart this age-old adversary. Between 2016 and 2023, infections plummeted from nearly five million cases to a striking 430,000 in 2023—a remarkable 90% reduction in malaria burden. This moment can be likened to the proverb, “Until the lion learns to write, every story will glorify the hunter.”…

Rwanda's Bold Migrant Resettlement Agreement with the U.S.: A New Chapter in Humanitarianism? In a world where migration often inspires fear and division, Rwanda is making headlines with a bold and unexpected agreement with the United States. This partnership allows Kigali to accept up to 250 migrants who have faced deportation from the U.S. While at first glance, this might appear to be just another footnote in the ever-complex narrative of global migration, it resonates deeply within the context of Rwanda’s own…

Barcelona Strikes a $50 Million Deal with DR Congo: An Opportunity or a Distraction? In a surprising turn of events, the iconic Barcelona football club has embarked on a groundbreaking partnership with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), prominently featuring "DR Congo - Heart of Africa" on the back of their training shirts for the upcoming season. This $50 million, four-year collaboration aims to elevate the nation’s tourism and investment prospects on the global stage. As exciting as this may seem, one cannot…

The Silent Suffering: Unpacking the Crisis of Sexual Violence in Goma, DR Congo In the heart of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the vibrant city of Goma stands defiant against a backdrop of turbulence and heart-wrenching strife. Home to over a million resilient souls, Goma is a melting pot of cultures, aspirations, and dreams. Yet, as the sun sets over Lake Kivu, it casts long shadows on the grim reality faced by many—specifically, the rampant sexual violence that has plagued this region. A staggering narrative…

Building a Future or Securing Power? Examining President Touadera's Bid for a Third Term in the Central African Republic In the heart of Africa, the Central African Republic (CAR) finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. President Faustin-Archange Touadera's recent announcement to seek a third term has not only ignited debates within the nation but has also raised eyebrows among international observers. Given the backdrop of a controversial constitutional overhaul, this move takes on significant implications, particularly in…

The Looming Threat of Cholera in West and Central Africa: A Call to Action As the rainy season descends upon West and Central Africa, a troubling shadow looms over the region. Recent estimates from the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) indicate that over 80,000 children are at high risk of cholera, an alarming statistic that highlights the precarious balance between nature and human vulnerability. With heavy rains and resultant flooding sweeping through countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and…

Maurice Kamto, a significant figure in Cameroon's opposition landscape and a staunch critic of President Paul Biya, has notably been omitted from the approved roster of candidates for the impending presidential election scheduled for October 12. Curiously, no explanation accompanied this decision, leaving many puzzled. Kamto intended to represent the African Movement for New Independence and Democracy (MANIDEM). His political journey is marked by his previous candidacy for the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC), where he…

Joseph Kabila, the former president of the Democratic Republic of Congo, finds himself at the epicenter of a significant political upheaval. Recently tried in absentia, he faces a litany of serious charges: treason, conspiracy to overthrow the government, and involvement with the M23 rebel group, allegedly backed by Rwanda. These allegations paint a complex picture of a leader caught between power struggles and regional volatility. During the proceedings held at the military court in Kinshasa, prosecutors presented a…

The tragic toll of violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has reached a devastating new high, as a recent attack on a Catholic church has claimed the lives of at least 43 individuals. This bloody incident, attributed to the notorious Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels, illustrates the persistent turmoil plaguing the region. Alongside the tragic loss of life, numerous homes and businesses in the vicinity of the church were set ablaze, leaving families reeling from destruction that extends beyond the physical…

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has delivered a significant verdict regarding Patrice-Edouard Ngaïssona, the former head of football for the Central African Republic (CAR). He has been found guilty of 28 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity. This ruling marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing pursuit of justice as it reflects the court's commitment to addressing the atrocities committed during a brutal conflict that has scarred the nation. In a trial that spanned nearly four years, more than 170 witnesses…