Central Africa

Leaders from the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) are being called upon to engage in crucial conversations aimed at halting the violence in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, while also exploring strategies to safeguard civilians caught in the turmoil in Sudan. These discussions are set to unfold at the forthcoming summit in Burundi. "This summit presents a vital platform for African leaders to confront the ongoing crises in Congo and Sudan, among others. They must create tangible,…

In a recent announcement, Sabin Nsanzimana, the Minister of Health, disclosed that the current Marburg virus outbreak originated with a 27-year-old individual who had come into contact with fruit bats while working in a cave linked to mining activities. This patient sought care at King Faisal Hospital in Kigali. Initially misdiagnosed with malaria, further testing eventually confirmed he was infected with the Marburg virus, leading to a rapid spread of the disease among close contacts and several healthcare workers.…

Chad has launched a comprehensive vaccination initiative that includes the R21 malaria vaccine, representing a significant advancement in safeguarding the health of its younger population. This ambitious campaign is set to provide the PCV13, rotavirus, and malaria vaccines to an impressive total of 19.7 million children aged between six months and five years. Notably, the malaria vaccine will specifically benefit 168,522 children across 28 targeted districts. By incorporating the malaria vaccine into its national…

The African School of Governance (ASG), a visionary initiative spearheaded by H.E. Paul Kagame, the President of Rwanda, alongside H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn, the former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, has officially opened its doors in the vibrant city of Kigali. This remarkable undertaking is bolstered by a partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, which aligns with its Young Africa Works Strategy. At the helm of ASG is Professor Kingsley Moghalu, who serves as its inaugural president. He is supported by a diverse and…

This week, leaders from the Commonwealth, a global organization primarily comprised of former British colonies, have convened in the picturesque Pacific island nation of Samoa. After two decades of waiting, it’s Africa’s turn to fill the Secretary-General role. However, the agenda is igniting debate, particularly regarding the contentious topic of reparations. In the spotlight are three contenders fiercely competing for the esteemed position: Ghana's Foreign Minister, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey; the erstwhile trade and…

In a significant political twist, President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has revealed intentions to create a commission tasked with reviewing the existing Constitution. This endeavor might lead to the scrapping of term limits, ultimately opening the door for a potential third presidential term. Tshisekedi, who assumed the presidency in January 2024 following a highly contentious re-election battle in December, is now advocating for alterations to a Constitution that first received the nod from voters…

According to Ambassador Johnnie Carson, Kamala Harris has shown a genuine dedication to African affairs. If she succeeds in the upcoming presidential election in the United States, "her administration could greatly enhance and build upon the positive momentum in U.S.-Africa relations.” Carson, a seasoned diplomat with an extensive legacy centered on African policy, advocates for a range of strategies aimed at elevating the partnership between the U.S. and Africa to new heights. He begins by emphasizing Nigeria's pivotal…

Gabon is gearing up for a significant referendum on November 16, where citizens will cast their votes concerning a newly proposed constitution. This impending decision has ignited a spectrum of reactions across the political landscape. One noteworthy aspect of the proposed constitution is that it would enable military leader General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema to mount a campaign for the presidency. This particular element has raised eyebrows and prompted intense backlash from various opposition factions. The draft…

Rwanda’s Health Minister, Sabin Nsanzimana, recently announced some promising news regarding the country's battle against the Marburg virus. Since the outbreak first emerged in September, there’s been a notable decrease in the rate of new infections, a sign that has the nation hopeful. Nsanzimana described this trend as "very encouraging." Reflecting on the initial phase of the outbreak, he mentioned, "The first two weeks felt somewhat stagnant; we were still unearthing the nature of this virus." However, he expressed…

In a groundbreaking development, the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially reported that Rwanda is spearheading the world's inaugural clinical trial aimed at treating the Marburg virus disease. Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, emphasized the collaborative effort with the organization, which involves testing a medication currently employed for COVID-19 management—Remdesivir—alongside an antibody specifically engineered to combat the Marburg virus. “This initiative showcases our collective…