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🇨🇩 Democratic Republic of Congo: Escalating Violence and Displacement
In North Kivu’s Nyiragongo territory, escalating violence has forced hundreds of Rusayo tribal families from Kanzana and Kabale Katambi villages to flee toward Goma and Sake. Recent atrocities include the April 5 execution of 11 civilians during breakfast and the May 11–12 burning alive of four family members by unidentified gunmen. The M23/AFC rebel group, reportedly backed by Rwanda, has established a parallel administration in the area, leading to increased criminality and insecurity. In response, the rebel-installed administrator has imposed night-time movement restrictions, including bans on motorbikes and heavy vehicles, to curb criminal activity. However, humanitarian access remains severely limited, with many displaced persons cut off from aid due to the ongoing conflict and rebel control over key regions .(The Times)
🇸🇩 Sudan: Looming Famine Amid Conflict
The United Nations reports that over 638,000 people in Sudan are currently experiencing famine conditions, with projections indicating that up to 30.4 million people will require humanitarian assistance throughout 2025. Conflict, particularly in regions like Darfur, Kordofan, and Khartoum, has displaced millions and severely disrupted food production and aid delivery. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warns that without immediate and unimpeded humanitarian access, the situation is set to deteriorate further .(The Times)
🇳🇪 Niger: Crackdown on Dissent and Foreign Companies
Niger’s military junta has faced international criticism following the arrest of Moussa Tchangari, a prominent rights activist and critic of the regime. His lawyers describe the detention as “illegal and arbitrary,” citing a lack of evidence and prolonged detention without trial. Additionally, French mining company Orano has sued the Nigerien government after its director was detained and company offices were raided, with equipment seized. The junta’s actions have raised concerns about the treatment of foreign businesses and civil society organizations in the country .
🇲🇱 Mali: Tensions Rise Over Arrests and Mining Disputes
In central Mali, approximately 30 civilians, predominantly from the Fulani community, were detained by individuals in military uniforms, sparking protests in the village of Diafarabe. Demonstrators demand information about the whereabouts and treatment of the detainees, highlighting concerns over military abuses. Concurrently, a court hearing is scheduled to consider the government’s request to place Barrick’s Loulo-Gounkoto gold mine under provisional management, escalating a dispute over taxes and ownership with the Canadian mining company .
🇬🇳 Guinea: Mining Concessions Revoked Amid Policy Shifts
Guinea’s junta has annulled over 50 mining concessions, including those for gold, bauxite, diamonds, and graphite, without providing specific reasons. This move is part of a broader effort to assert greater control over the mining sector and ensure compliance with the country’s mining code. Foreign companies have been given until the end of May to submit proposals for building local refineries, aiming to process minerals domestically and retain more value within the country .
🇲🇷 Mauritania: Former President Sentenced for Corruption
Mauritania’s appeals court has increased the prison sentence of former President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz to 15 years and imposed a $3 million fine after he appealed a five-year verdict. Aziz was convicted of money laundering and illicit enrichment, with investigators alleging he amassed over $70 million during his presidency. The trial is seen as a significant instance of accountability for corruption among African leaders .(The Times)
🇱🇾 Libya: Ceasefire Holds After Intense Clashes
Tripoli has experienced its worst fighting in years, with clashes between rival militias erupting after the killing of a major militia leader. A ceasefire announced by the government has led to a reduction in hostilities, though the situation remains volatile. The conflict underscores the ongoing instability in Libya, where multiple armed groups vie for control, and the central government’s authority is often contested .
🇿🇼 Zimbabwe: Protesters Granted Bail After Prolonged Detention
A Zimbabwean court has granted bail to nearly 100 anti-government protesters who had been held in custody for six weeks following a demonstration against President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The protesters were charged with breaching the peace and participating in gatherings with intent to promote public violence. The case highlights ongoing concerns over political repression and the shrinking space for dissent in Zimbabwe .
🇪🇹 Ethiopia: TPLF Banned Ahead of 2026 Elections
Ethiopia’s Election Commission has formally deregistered the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), a major opposition party, citing its failure to hold a general assembly. The TPLF, which previously dominated Ethiopian politics, has been sidelined since 2018. The decision comes as the country prepares for national elections, with the TPLF still eligible to apply for re-registration .(The Times)
🇳🇬 Nigeria: Satellite Launches Approved for Security and Observation
Nigeria’s Federal Executive Council has approved the launch of four satellites, including three for Earth observation and one radar aperture satellite, to enhance the country’s capabilities in monitoring and addressing security challenges. The move is part of broader efforts to leverage technology for national development and security .
🇫🇷🇩🇿 France and Algeria Expel Diplomats Amid Tensions
France has expelled Algerian diplomats in a tit-for-tat response to Algeria’s expulsion of French officials earlier this week. The diplomatic standoff
