SUDAN | RSF Accused of Atrocities in Zamzam IDP Camp
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have taken full control of the Zamzam IDP camp in North Darfur, perpetrating widespread abuses, including rape, abductions, and killings, according to the Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA). SIHA reports a communications blackout and movement restrictions since April 12. Verified cases include the rape of a 12-year-old girl and allegations of mutilation of three men, two of whom died.
SUDAN | UN Warns of Escalating Humanitarian Crisis
The UN warns of a deteriorating humanitarian situation in Sudan, citing intensified fighting in El Fasher and a sharp rise in cholera cases in Khartoum. Over 6,000 displaced persons arrived in Northern State in May. Prepositioning of aid is underway ahead of the rainy season, with cross-border support expected from Chad into West and Central Darfur.
DRC | Former President Kabila Returns Amid Treason Allegations
Former DRC President Joseph Kabila has returned from exile amid Senate accusations of treason for allegedly supporting M23 rebels. Kabila landed in Goma—beyond Kinshasa’s control—where he was welcomed by M23 leader Corneille Nangaa. Legal proceedings remain uncertain.
NIGERIA | Landmine Kills Eight Anti-Jihadist Fighters
Eight members of a civilian militia assisting the Nigerian military were killed by a landmine in Borno State on May 28. The group had recently repelled an ISWAP attack in Marte. Extremist violence has surged across northeastern Nigeria, with militants overrunning multiple military bases in recent weeks.
WEST AFRICA | ECOWAS Marks 50 Years Amid Regional Fragmentation
As ECOWAS celebrates its 50th anniversary, the bloc faces deepening challenges. Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have exited the group and formed the Alliance of Sahel States, seeking security partnerships with Russia. ECOWAS is negotiating to maintain core principles such as trade and movement despite political divides.
KENYA-SOMALIA | Nairobi Blocks Somaliland Office Opening
Kenya has halted the planned opening of a Somaliland liaison office in Nairobi, reaffirming its commitment to Somalia’s territorial integrity. The move comes amid delicate regional diplomacy and Somalia’s objection to Somaliland’s increasing international engagements.
SOMALIA | Opposition Forum Demands Electoral Roadmap
Senior Somali opposition leaders are meeting in Mogadishu to press the government for a clear electoral framework ahead of 2026 elections. The forum includes ex-presidents, former PMs, and lawmakers calling for transparency and timeliness in the process.
AFRICA | Illegal Gold Trade Fuels Conflict – UN Report
A UN report highlights the role of organized crime in Africa’s gold supply chains, warning of rising violence, corruption, and armed conflict funded by illegal mining. Weak regulation allows illicit gold to enter global markets, posing a significant security risk.
ETHIOPIA | Young Migrants Risk Lives to Reach Saudi Arabia
Driven by instability and poverty, over 230,000 Ethiopians attempted the dangerous eastern migration route to Saudi Arabia last year. Many face exploitation, abuse, or death en route. Rights groups continue to condemn Saudi Arabia’s harsh treatment of migrants, including alleged mass killings.
NAMIBIA | First National Genocide Remembrance Day Observed
Namibia marked its first national holiday commemorating the genocide of the Ovaherero and Nama peoples under German colonial rule. More than 70,000 were killed between 1904–1908. The country continues to push for reparations as part of a national healing process.
SENEGAL | Water Partnership Wins UN PPP Award
The SEN’EAU joint venture between Senegal and SUEZ has won a top UN award for public-private partnerships. Recognized for digitizing and improving water services, the initiative has expanded access in Dakar by 200,000 m³/day and is seen as a scalable model for African cities.
ENVIRONMENT | Loss of Elephant Matriarchs Fractures Herds
A study published by the Royal Society warns that the loss of elephant matriarchs due to poaching and habitat loss is dismantling the social fabric of herds. These experienced leaders are key to survival and migration. Their absence is affecting herd behavior and increasing human-elephant conflicts.
