M23 Rebels Accused of Executing Civilians in Eastern Congo – Human Rights Watch
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Human Rights Watch (HRW) reported that Rwanda-backed M23 rebels executed at least 21 civilians over a two-day period, February 22–23, in the eastern city of Goma. Witnesses said six men and one woman were shot near the Katindo military camp, while others, including a 15-year-old boy, were found dead at a nearby construction site. HRW noted that the killings occurred in the Kasika neighborhood, a former Congolese army base. The executions reflect the escalating violence amid the rebels’ recent capture of Goma and Bukavu, which has resulted in mass civilian displacement and thousands of deaths. (Source: Reuters, HRW)
Darfur: Sexual Violence Surges Amid Armed Militia Attacks
Sudan: Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has reported a sharp increase in sexual violence in South Darfur, treating 659 survivors between January and March 2025. Over two-thirds were raped, with many victims attacked while gathering food or water or working in fields. MSF says 56% of perpetrators were non-civilians. Testimonies detail incidents where male residents were killed, and women and girls subsequently assaulted. MSF emphasized that such violence constitutes potential war crimes or crimes against humanity. (Source: The Guardian, MSF)
Sudan: WFP Aid Convoy Destroyed in North Darfur; Army and RSF Trade Blame
A World Food Programme (WFP) convoy carrying food aid to El Fasher was destroyed in Al-Koma, North Darfur. The regional health ministry accused the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of burning the trucks in retaliation for army operations. RSF had reportedly impounded the trucks for over 10 days. The Sudanese army denied involvement, stating it had no motive to attack humanitarian convoys. (Source: Sudan Tribune)
Somalia: Puntland Forces Kill 10 ISIS Fighters Amid Anti-Terror Campaign
Puntland Counter-Terrorism Forces reportedly killed at least 10 ISIS militants in the Shaakaalooyin area of the Bari region, thwarting an impending attack. Ground and air operations, supported by U.S. Africa Command, also targeted ISIS hideouts in Miraale and Baalade valleys. Several militants fled to nearby caves to evade airstrikes. The offensive marks a continued effort to dismantle ISIS operations in eastern Somalia. (Source: Garowe Online)
Somalia Replaces Intelligence Chief Amid Rising Shabaab Threat
Mogadishu: The Somali government replaced Abdullahi Mohamed Ali (Sanbaloolshe) as head of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), appointing former director Mahad Mohamed Salad amid rising security concerns from Al-Shabaab insurgents. Salad’s reappointment reflects a shift toward veteran leadership to confront growing threats, including recent activity from Somaliland seeking international recognition. (Source: The East African)
Mali: Militants Attack Army Bases as Jihadist Violence Persists
Mali: The jihadist group JNIM (Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin) claimed responsibility for attacks on army bases in Timbuktu and Boulkessi, near the Burkina Faso border. As many as 30 soldiers were reportedly killed in the latter attack. Despite the military junta’s 2020 promises to stabilize the country, attacks continue, alongside alleged human rights abuses by state forces and Russian mercenaries. (Source: The Guardian)
Nigerian Army Kills Top ISWAP Commander Abu Fatima
Nigeria: The military confirmed the killing of Abu Fatima, a senior leader of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), in Aleru village, Borno State. Fatima, who had a ₦100 million bounty, was captured alive but died from injuries. The operation, part of Operation Hadin Kai, also resulted in the death of two aides and the seizure of weapons and bomb-making materials. (Source: Premium Times)
Flash Flooding in Nigeria’s Mokwa Leaves Over 200 Dead
Niger State, Nigeria: At least 200 people have been confirmed dead after flash floods devastated Mokwa on May 29. Hundreds remain missing, raising fears the death toll could surpass that of all 2024 flooding-related deaths combined. Residents blamed the disaster on blocked culverts, inadequate drainage, and poor infrastructure maintenance. Over 250 homes were destroyed. (Source: AFP)
Guinea: Journalists Demand Answers on Missing Reporter
Guinea: Over 100 journalists and press freedom organizations are demanding information on Habib Marouane Camara, a reporter who has been missing since December 2024 after being detained by security personnel. Camara, who runs Lerevelateur224, reportedly requires daily medication for a health condition. His disappearance occurs amid broader crackdowns on media under the ruling junta. (Source: AFP)
Benin: Activist Jailed for Online Posts Criticizing Government
Benin: A court sentenced Steve Amoussou, a prominent digital activist, to two years in prison and a fine of 2 million CFA francs (~$3,500) for allegedly insulting authorities and spreading false information. Accused of running the “Frere Hounvi” social media account, Amoussou denies the charges. He was arrested in Togo and tried by Benin’s Court for the Repression of Economic Offences and Terrorism, known for targeting dissidents. (Source: AFP)
Uganda: Journalists Under Threat Ahead of 2026 Elections
Uganda: Violence against journalists is increasing ahead of the January 2026 elections, with 33 reporters assaulted by security forces during March by-elections, according to the Uganda Journalists Association. Past and recent threats—including a chilling post by Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the President’s son—highlight ongoing impunity. Despite a 2024 court ruling deeming such attacks unconstitutional, media advocates say enforcement remains weak. (Source: Global Press Journal)
