Africa CDC sounds alarm: Mpox crisis deepens
The Central African region is the epicenter, accounting for a majority of cases and deaths.
Africa CDC presses Trump on mpox funding
Africa CDC is urging the Trump administration to honor Biden’s pledge of $500 million and 1 million mpox vaccines amid the continent’s ongoing mpox outbreak.
ICC issues arrest warrant for Central African Republic militia leader
Beina faces charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity, including mass killings, murder, rape, and persecution
Rwanda sends humanitarian aid to Gaza
Relief items include foodstuff, medicines and medical consumables
Nigeria warns of Lakurawas infiltration from Niger, Mali
A new insurgent group, Lakurawas, has infiltrated Nigeria’s northwest region from neighboring Niger and Mali, posing a significant security threat.
Africa’s technological leapfrogging: From mobile phones to renewable energy
Africa has gained global recognition for its unique approach to technological development
WHO allocates 900,000 Mpox vaccines to Africa
Several African countries, including the Central African Republic, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Liberia, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, and Uganda, are set to benefit from a new mpox vaccine allocation. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which has reported 80% of Africa’s confirmed mpox cases this year, will receive 85% of nearly 900,000 doses allocated. The vaccine distribution is part of the World Health Organization’s Access and Allocation Mechanism (AAM), aimed at expanding access to mpox vaccines, treatments, and diagnostic tools. Limited vaccinations have already been carried out in DRC and Rwanda. The outbreak, which has spread across 19 African countries this year, was declared a public health emergency by the WHO and Africa CDC in mid-August. With over 38,000 suspected cases and more than 1,000 deaths, DRC remains the epicenter of the outbreak. Wealthier countries have pledged over 3.6 million vaccine doses to aid the response.
Democrats abroad in Kenya fear Trump victory
Members of Democrats Abroad in Kenya had gathered in Nairobi’s Westlands area, hopeful for a Democratic victory in the U.S. elections. However, as results began to roll in, disappointment set in as it became clear that Donald Trump had emerged victorious. For many, the outcome sparked fear and anxiety about the future. Project Manager Alexia Yun expressed her concerns: “I’m a little disappointed, not as surprised as I was in 2016, but now I’m scared about what’s going to happen in the next four years and beyond.” One of the key issues during this year’s election was abortion rights. In 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, cutting off abortion access for millions of women. Many Democrats abroad fear that under another Trump administration, women’s rights could face even greater restrictions. Robin Emerson, Chairperson of Democrats Abroad Kenya, voiced her concerns, saying, “I am very worried about what this possible new administration would do or say about a woman’s body and her reproductive rights.” Democrats Abroad, a global organization with 52 country committees, works to ensure that Americans living overseas can participate in U.S. elections and advocate for their political values.
Prince William visits South Africa ahead of Earthshot prize ceremony
Prince William Visits South African President Ahead of Earthshot Prize Ceremony Prince William visited South African President on Tuesday after joining conservationists and rangers at Table Mountain National Park. His trip, part of a multi-day visit, underscores the UK’s strong ties with South Africa, according to the South African presidency. The Prince is in South Africa for the Earthshot Prize awards ceremony, taking place on Wednesday. Launched four years ago, the prize aims to recognize innovative solutions to climate and environmental challenges, with each winner receiving $1.3 million. This year’s finalists include the Amazon Sacred Headwaters Alliance, focused on forest protection, and the Alton Dala Conservation Initiative, which helped save the Saiga Antelope from extinction. The Earthshot Prize ceremony is being held in Africa for the first time, during William’s first visit to the continent since 2018. He will also attend a wildlife summit and participate in climate-related events throughout his trip.
Imane Khelif takes legal action over claims of XY chromosomes
Olympic gold medalist Imane Khelif is taking legal action against French media reports that claimed she has XY chromosomes. The 25-year-old boxer, who won gold at the Paris Olympics, has filed a complaint with French authorities regarding online harassment she faced during the Games. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) expressed concern over the abuse Khelif endured, calling it “saddening.” The IOC reaffirmed that all athletes, including Khelif, met the eligibility and medical requirements for the Paris 2024 boxing competition. Khelif, from Algeria, also competed in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Nigerian army chief Lagbaja dies
His passing comes at a time when the country is grappling with various security threats.
Amnesty condemns Ethiopia’s mass detentions in Amhara
The organization is calling on the Ethiopian government to immediately release all detainees and end its crackdown on dissent.
South Sudan peace talks resume under pressure
South Sudan leader, Salva Kiir and Kenyan William Ruto, have issued a directive to resume peace talks and resolve outstanding issues within two weeks.
WHO allocates 899K mpox vaccine doses to 9 African nations
The WHO’s allocation of 899,000 mpox vaccine doses to nine African countries is a crucial step in protecting vulnerable populations and preventing further spread of the virus.
Somalia urges Germany to end forced returns
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud urged German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to halt forced deportations of Somalis, advocating for voluntary repatriation.
South Africa halts border traffic amid Mozambique protests
The Lebombo Port of Entry has been temporarily shut down as a precautionary measure following reports of violence and vehicle torching on the Mozambican side of the border.
RSF chief Dagalo congratulates Trump, commits to peace in Sudan
Dagalo’s message, which aligns with his ongoing efforts to portray the RSF as a key player in Sudan’s political future
African leaders applaud Trump on projected election win
Donald Trump’s election comes at ‘very crucial time when global peace is of paramount importance more than ever before,’ says Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki
Africa’s Great Green Wall: A bold step towards combating desertification
This environmental project aims to restore the land and livelihoods of millions in the Sahel region
China’s Li Xi meets Ruto in Nairobi to strengthen bilateral ties
Top Chinese Official Li Xi Visits Kenya for Bilateral Talks Chinese official Li Xi arrived in Nairobi on Monday for discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between China and Kenya. He was received by Kenyan President William Ruto at the State House. During the talks, President Ruto reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to deepening its partnership with China, stating, “Kenya is dedicated to advancing this partnership across Africa and upholding the ‘One China’ policy.” The two countries are working together on various development projects in Kenya, with Ruto also requesting China’s support for Kenya’s bid to join the BRICS group of emerging economies. BRICS, which represents about 28% of the global economy, was originally founded in 2006 with Brazil, Russia, India, and China. South Africa joined in 2010, and this year, countries such as Egypt and Ethiopia became members.
UK and South Africa strengthen ties with new agreements
South Africa and Britain said Tuesday they will work on strengthening trade ties during a meeting in Cape Town. “Foreign Secretary, at the outset, I wish to take this opportunity to reconfirm that the United Kingdom remains a key partner for South Africa,” Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola said at the meeting with his UK counterpart, David Lammy. Lamola acknowledged the close bonds of friendship and people-to-people engagements that exist between the two peoples and countries. He noted that the trade and investment relationship had stagnated somewhat, not only because of the coronavirus pandemic but also because of the general state of the global economy and various domestic challenges. Lammy said as a new government, the UK is committed to growth, climate leadership, trade, climate finance, technical assistance and added that there is much that UK and South Africa can do together. He said their communique reflects a bold vision that sets up a new direction for the relationship. “With our shared ambitions, I think on growth, climate and security we can achieve a lot for our countries but also I hope for the region and for broader global security and strength,” he said. Lammy began his visit to Nigeria and South Africa on Nov. 3 — his first trip to the continent as foreign secretary and the first by a UK top diplomat to South Africa since 2013. Britain’s Prince William, meanwhile, met President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday in Cape Town and discussed issues of mutual interests. “The President and Prince William held discussions on a number of key issues of mutual interest. The visit is indicative of the strong ties the United Kingdom, including the Royal family, share with South Africa, and also another step towards the deepening of these historic ties,” the presidency said in a statement on X. The Prince of Wales and heir to the British throne is in South Africa on a four-day visit to attend a series of events, including the annual awards ceremony of the Earthshot Prize on Wednesday. The presidency said Monday that it is pleased to host this year’s Earthshot Prize ceremony because of the initiative’s focus on Africa. “The Earthshot Prize is a remarkable initiative that shines a light on the impact of climate change, environmental degradation and pollution, as well as the creative solutions people and communities across the globe generate,” it said.
Amnesty calls for probe into deadly Mali drone strikes
Mali’s military has been accused of targeting civilians in drone strikes. Amnesty International is demanding a thorough investigation into the incidents.
Mozambique’s defence minister issues ultimatum to protesters
Deadly clashes between security forces and protesters have erupted in Mozambique following a controversial election.
US forgives Somalia’s billion-dollar debt
The debt relief, coupled with other international aid, aims to help Somalia overcome its challenges.
Murderers of Ugandan Olympian Kiplagat receive 35-year sentences
A Kenyan court has sentenced two men to 35 years each for the murder of Ugandan athlete Benjamin Kiplagat, who was tragically killed on New Year’s Eve in Eldoret, a renowned training hub for athletes. Kiplagat, a notable Olympic steeplechaser who competed in the 2016 Rio Games as well as in London and Beijing, was fatally stabbed in an incident that shocked the Kenyan sports community. During the sentencing hearing, Justice Reuben Nyakundi condemned the actions of Peter Ushuru Khalumi and David Ekai Lokere, stating, “Your actions were cruel to a defenseless person whose life you cut short.” Evidence presented during the trial, including CCTV footage, revealed that the two men had followed Kiplagat as he drove and had deliberately attacked him in a premeditated act. On Monday, Kiplagat’s mother emotionally urged the court to impose life sentences, recounting her son’s journey from running barefoot to becoming an international athlete and the family’s primary provider. She emphasized that the assailants left behind Kiplagat’s cash and valuable phone, indicating their intent to kill him rather than rob him. Although the court did not grant the request for life sentences, the family expressed their satisfaction with the verdict, feeling that justice had been served. Kiplagat, who was 34 at the time of his death, was a prominent figure in athletics, having reached the final of the 3,000m steeplechase at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and holding the Ugandan record in the event.
Nigeria’s power grid collapses again, disrupting millions
Nigeria’s power grid suffered another partial collapse, affecting millions of people and highlighting the country’s ongoing power crisis.
Justice for Kiplagat: Murderers get 35 years in Kenya
Two men convicted of murdering Ugandan athlete Benjamin Kiplagat sentenced to 35 years in Kenya.
