Africa News Roundup: Key Developments Across the Continent – August 25, 2026
Africa News Roundup: Key Developments Across the Continent – August 25, 2026
South Sudan
Two UN peacekeepers (Ethiopian nationals serving with UNMISS) were killed and seven others injured in an ambush by unidentified gunmen on a patrol in Jonglei state’s Pajut area on August 24. The wounded included three peacekeepers, two South Sudanese police officers, and two civilian staff. UNMISS head Anita Kiki Gbeho condemned the attack, called for a prompt investigation, and noted that attacks on peacekeepers can constitute war crimes. A quick reaction force was deployed. South Sudan remains highly dangerous for aid workers (at least 36 killed since January).
Guinea
A landslide at a major rubbish landfill/waste mound in the capital Conakry (following heavy rains) killed at least 30–31 people, with more injured (some critically). Rescue efforts continued amid fears the toll could rise; a similar incident occurred at the site in 2017. Survivors reported ignored warnings about the unstable mound.
Nigeria
An armed group released a video appearing to show around 600 women, children, and older people held captive after a mosque attack in Dekara village (Niger State) the previous week. Separately, gunmen abducted about 28 Muslim travellers (including women and children) in central Nigeria en route to a religious festival. On a more positive security note, reports indicated around 150 terrorists surrendered amid military pressure in the northeast.
Democratic Republic of Congo (and Rwanda)
Ceasefire monitors began field deployment in eastern Congo under a Qatari-mediated peace deal to observe implementation between Congolese forces and Rwandan-backed rebels (including M23). DR Congo and M23 agreed on a peace roadmap after talks in Switzerland (including monitoring mechanisms and timelines under a prior US-brokered framework), though disagreements remain on sanctions, detainees, and reforms.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame criticized US sanctions on Rwanda’s defence forces (imposed earlier over alleged support for M23), calling them one-sided and failing to address root causes like the FDLR.
The Ebola (Bundibugyo strain) outbreak continues as the deadliest in DRC history, with deaths approaching or near 2,700 after ~100 days; frontline workers face unpaid wages and other challenges, while WHO/Africa CDC urge stronger action.
Other notable developments
- Prince Harry / Conservation: Prince Harry stepped down from the board of African Parks (after ~10 years) following an independent investigation into alleged human rights abuses (including beatings, rape, and torture) by rangers against indigenous people in Congo-Brazzaville. He remains a supporter of the charity’s mission; the group has said it strengthened safeguards.
- Zambia: Authorities closed top courts on the final day for filing challenges to the recent presidential election (won by incumbent Hakainde Hichilema), limiting opposition options amid reports of post-election tensions.
- Tanzania: Vice President Nchimbi resigned. A presidential commission began probing violence and law violations linked to the 2025 elections.
- Kenya: Four people were arrested in connection with the deaths of 18 elephants in the Amboseli ecosystem. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua affirmed his intent to contest the 2027 presidential election despite impeachment (which he is challenging in court). President Ruto issued warnings to the opposition. Nairobi hosted an anime/comic-con festival.
- Sudan: The US proposed expanding the UN arms embargo (currently focused on Darfur) to the whole country, including drones, as the civil war enters its fourth year. Sudanese anti-war forces rejected a national dialogue call from army leader El Burhan. The UN launched a $22 million education initiative for children.
- Elsewhere: Tunisia recovered at least 19 migrant bodies after a boat sinking. Senegal aims to finalize an IMF programme quickly amid debt issues. South Africa is rolling out a new HIV injectable drug. Namibia advanced an offshore phosphate mining project. Uganda detained a prominent rights campaigner ahead of polls.
Sports note: The Africa Cup of Nations (hosted in Morocco) is ongoing, with recent results including strong performances by teams such as Nigeria and Egypt.
News is fast-moving across the continent—security incidents, health crises (especially Ebola), political transitions, and peace efforts dominate current coverage.
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