In Nigeria, 190 people have died from Lassa fever this year

In Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, 190 people have died this year from Lassa fever, a viral disease transmitted from animals to humans. Jide Idris, Director of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), confirmed a worrying rise in both cases and fatalities nationwide. According to Idris, 9,492 suspected Lassa fever cases have been reported this year, with 1,154 testing positive. The outbreak has claimed 190 lives, and the fatality rate remains alarmingly high. In response, the Nigerian government has designated three drugs for treatment. Lassa fever was first identified in Nigeria in 1969 in the northeastern Borno State. The disease is spread through contact with rat droppings, can be transmitted person-to-person, and causes severe hemorrhagic fever, often fatal. Health authorities are urging Nigerians to avoid contact with rodents and other pests to help prevent the further spread of the disease.

France mourns Cyclone Chido victims

France observed a national day of mourning Monday in honor of the victims of Cyclone Chido, which devastated the French overseas department of Mayotte earlier this month. Flags were flown at half-staff across the country, and a minute of silence was observed at 10 a.m. GMT. President Emmanuel Macron commemorated the victims at Elysee Palace as ‘The Last Post’ was played, while recently appointed Prime Minister François Bayrou led what he said “a very moving moment of silence” at his residence Hôtel de Matignon. Bayrou spoke to media after the observance, saying the tribute “signifies a commitment so that the international community is present to reconstruct Mayotte.” The cyclone, the most destructive to hit Mayotte in 90 years, caused extensive damage to the island, known as France’s poorest department. It left at least 35 dead and around 2,500 injured, with the actual toll likely higher due to the widespread destruction of infrastructure and precarious living conditions. Cyclone Chido struck Mayotte on Dec. 14, destroying homes, disrupting water and electricity supplies, and severing communications. Emergency crews continue efforts to restore basic services, but the scale of the damage has made recovery efforts particularly challenging.

Somalia-Ethiopia border tensions resurface

Despite a recent agreement aimed at resolving tensions, deadly clashes have erupted between Somali and Ethiopian forces in the border region.

Cyclone Chido death toll in Mozambique rises to 120

The cyclone, which also impacted Mayotte and Malawi, has exacerbated existing challenges for the country, including a severe drought and ongoing political unrest.

Nigeria declares Lassa fever emergency after 190 deaths

The viral hemorrhagic fever has infected over 1,100 people across the country.

Battle for Al-Zurug: Key base at center of RSF-SAF clash in El Fasher

Built under RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), Al-Zurug symbolizes RSF dominance in Darfur

Sahel alliance rejects ECOWAS timeline, alleges destabilization

During a recent summit in Abuja, Nigeria, ECOWAS outlined a six-month grace period following the official withdrawal date in January 2025

Mozambique court affirms ruling party win

The Constitutional Council of Mozambique upheld the ruling Frelimo party’s win, despite opposition protests and allegations of election fraud, leading to unrest and economic challenges.

Africa: The continent of seven time zones

Africa, showcases its vast geographical diversity through its unique span of seven time zones

Chad orders full withdrawal of French troops

France Forced to Speed Up Troop Withdrawal from Chad After Sudden Demand France was caught off guard as Chad ordered the full withdrawal of French personnel from its N’Djamena base by December 31, despite plans to begin a gradual repatriation of troops starting next week. This marks a significant blow to France’s influence in the Sahel, as Chad was its last stronghold in the region. The rapid change in circumstances comes after a deadly Boko Haram attack in October that killed 40 Chadian soldiers. The Chadian government accused France of failing to provide necessary assistance following the attack, leading to a breakdown in relations. The French army’s departure follows public demonstrations demanding that France end its military presence in the country. As a result, France began sending the first batch of 120 soldiers back on Friday, with more expected to follow in the coming weeks. This sudden withdrawal raises questions about Chad’s future alliances and the broader impact on security in the Sahel.

Cyclone Chido death toll rises to 94 in Mozambique

The powerful cyclone also destroyed over 110,000 homes and caused widespread devastation across the country.  

Sudanese party accuses SAF and allied groups of “atrocities” in Darfur

Thus far, neither the SAF nor representatives of Minawi and Jibril have responded to the allegations

The remarkable clicks of African languages: Xhosa and Zulu in focus

Languages serve as windows into the cultures and histories of the people who speak them

Ferry capsizes in DR Congo, 38 dead, over 100 missing

Overloading and poor safety regulations are suspected to be contributing factors.  

Over 20 killed in central Mali attacks

The tragic incident highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by Mali, which has been grappling with an insurgency for years.

France redefines Djibouti base as key military hub

French President Emmanuel Macron has emphasized the importance of the French military base in Djibouti, describing it as a key “projection point” for France’s evolving military operations in Africa.

Chad leader elevated to marshal, following father’s footsteps

Chad’s President, General Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, has been elevated to the rank of Marshal, the highest military title in the country.

Deadly stampede at charity events leaves 13 dead in Nigeria

Two separate crowd crush incidents at charity events have claimed the lives of at least 13 people.

Mayotte families struggle to rebuild after cyclone, cite lack of aid

With the rainy season approaching, families like theirs are increasingly worried about their ability to complete repairs in time, highlighting the urgent need for aid and support

17 Chinese nationals accused of running illegal gold mine in Congo

The Chinese embassy in Kinshasa has yet to comment, while Burundi’s embassy stated it is awaiting further details

Tourism: A billion-dollar boost for Africa’s economy

Tourism continues to play a vital role in Africa’s economic development, contributing billions of dollars

Somalia launches “New Mogadishu” development project

In a historic move for Somalia, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud officially launched the “New Mogadishu” development initiative on Thursday, aiming to transform the capital’s economic landscape. The initiative includes the construction of a modern airport, a new port, and an economic zone designed to drive growth and attract investment. During the launch, President Mohamud praised the resilience of Somalia’s business community, highlighting their role in providing essential services despite challenging circumstances. “Somali businessmen have proven their commitment to the nation’s progress,” he said. The initiative is also expected to create thousands of jobs, with Mohamud emphasizing that it’s not just about infrastructure, but about creating opportunities for the youth and uplifting local communities. “This project marks a significant milestone for Somalia as we work to revitalize the capital and build investor confidence, paving the way for a brighter economic future,” Mohamud added. Fardowsa Osman Egal, Somalia’s Minister of Transport and Aviation, spoke about the new airport’s importance, noting that it would alleviate the limitations of the current Mogadishu airport. “This new international airport will help increase international flights, supporting the creation of a financial zone to attract both local and international investors.” Valued at around $650 million, the New Mogadishu project is poised to significantly boost Somalia’s economy. On behalf of the business community, Mohamud Abdikarim Gabeyre, chairman of the Somali Chamber of Commerce and Industry, welcomed the project, expressing hope that local businesses would benefit from the new investment. In addition to the New Mogadishu initiative, President Mohamud also inaugurated the $400 million Gateway Complex project on Wednesday. This ambitious development includes Somalia’s first five-star hotel, an international convention center, a modern hospital, premium hotel apartments, and a shopping complex, aiming to transform Mogadishu’s skyline. Despite ongoing security challenges, including threats from the al-Shabab terrorist group, the launch of these projects marks a major step toward rebuilding Somalia’s infrastructure and economy.

Two witchdoctors arrested for plotting against Zambian president

Two suspected witchdoctors were apprehended in Lusaka, Zambia’s capital, Friday for allegedly attempting to “bewitch” President Hakainde Hichilema, police said. Police spokesman Rae Hamoonga said in a statement the suspects had been formally arrested and charged with professing knowledge of witchcraft, possession of charms, and cruelty to wild animals. “The suspects, identified as Jasten Mabulesse Candunde, 42, and Leonard Phiri, 43, were found in possession of assorted charms, including a live chameleon and are alleged to be practicing witchdoctors,” Hamoonga said, adding that preliminary investigations revealed that the duo was engaged by Nelson Banda, the younger brother of Emmanuel, a former independent member of parliament, to use the charms to harm Hichilema. He said Nelson Banda was currently on the run. Police said the suspects disclosed that they were promised a payment of 2 million Zambian Kwacha (over $7,000) after the execution of their mission.

Mpox and Marburg outbreaks strain Africa’s health systems

Central and East Africa are facing severe health crises as Mpox and the Marburg virus continue to spread, overwhelming healthcare systems. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains at the epicenter of the Mpox outbreak, with over 13,000 cases and 450 deaths reported, underscoring the urgency of the situation. Neighboring countries like Cameroon, Burundi, and Uganda are also experiencing new cases. Despite efforts to contain the virus, limited testing capacity and strained healthcare infrastructure have made it difficult to control the spread. In August 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox a public health emergency due to the escalating number of cases, operational challenges, and the need for coordinated global action. “Mpox has been a recurring issue in the DRC for over a decade, with cases steadily rising each year. This year, the number of cases has already surpassed last year’s total, with over 14,000 cases and 524 deaths,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Mpox symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash that typically begins on the face before spreading. Though often mild, the disease can lead to severe complications, particularly for individuals with weakened immune systems. The virus spreads through close contact with infected individuals or animals, which poses particular challenges in densely populated regions. “A person is infectious from the onset of symptoms until the skin lesions crust over and new skin forms. Transmission primarily occurs through respiratory droplets or direct contact with bodily fluids, lesions, or contaminated items,” explained Dr. Olivia Kasirye, Public Health Officer for Sacramento County. Compounding the health crisis, Rwanda is dealing with its first outbreak of the Marburg virus, with over 60 confirmed cases, including several healthcare workers. The virus’s high fatality rate has increased the urgency for an immediate and coordinated response from national and international health organizations. Insufficient Vaccines and Global Support Needed Nearly 900,000 Mpox vaccine doses have been distributed across Africa, but experts warn this is far from sufficient. The Africa CDC estimates that more than 10 million doses are necessary to control the outbreak. Vaccination efforts are ongoing with support from global partners, but substantial challenges remain. As Africa battles both Mpox and Marburg, the call for increased investment in testing, surveillance, and healthcare infrastructure is more urgent than ever. While local communities are working tirelessly on the ground, sustained global support is critical to addressing these overlapping health crises.

Families struggle to survive amidst South Sudan floods

Floods have become a yearly occurrence in South Sudan, forcing thousands of people to flee their homes.

Security council renews mandate for UN mission in DRC

The United Nations Security Council has voted to extend the mandate of the UN peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for another year.

Niger accuses Nigeria of destabilization efforts

Niger has summoned the Nigerian charge d’affaires, accusing Nigeria of “serving as a rear base” to destabilize the country.

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