Footage showed damaged homes, waterlogged rooms and household items floating in muddy floodwater. Another resident, Nelson Joao Adriano, said entire homes, including bedrooms, kitchens and living rooms, had been inundated, and called for families to be relocated from flood-prone areas.

Victims also criticised the authorities for failing to respond adequately, saying the stagnant water posed serious health risks and had made daily life unbearable. While the death toll from the floods rises, residents say they feel abandoned and are demanding urgent support.

He described the assault as a “barbaric” act marked by indiscriminate violence, loss of life and destruction of property, calling it a serious violation of human dignity and fundamental rights , Viory reports.

The Congolese army said security measures were being reinforced to protect civilians, restore order and neutralise ADF fighters and their allies. It added that military operations in the area had been stepped up to dismantle the armed group’s networks.

Authorities also urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements to the defence and security forces.

As part of a strategy to capture more value from its natural resources, the Angolan government is considering acquiring a 20 - 30% strategic stake in De Beers. Officials say discussions are at an advanced stage.

Botswana, already a key shareholder in De Beers, is also seeking to increase its stake. The government currently holds 15% of the company and has expressed interest in expanding its ownership as Anglo American moves forward with plans to sell the diamond business .

Meanwhile, Anglo American CEO Duncan Wanblad said he is optimistic a deal could be signed before the end of the year. 

“At this stage I’m optimistic that we should see a deal signed during the course of this year. We are now really advanced in the second phase of our process,” Wanblad told reporters after the release of the company’s interim results. 

He added that “Botswana is an extremely important and key stakeholder,” noting that its position would be decisive in determining the structure of any final deal. Botswana President Duma Boko has publicly voiced support for increasing the country’s stake.

De Beers, founded more than 135 years ago by Cecil Rhodes in South Africa, has mined hundreds of millions of carats across the continent, particularly in South Africa, Botswana and Namibia, generating tens of billions of dollars in revenue.

However, the diamond market is currently facing headwinds. Wanblad acknowledged uncertainty over De Beers’ valuation following significant write-downs that contributed to Anglo American posting a $3.7 billion loss.

“At the moment there is a plentiful supply of rough diamonds in the market, with Angola ramping up output during the course of the year,” he said, adding that he could not rule out further impairments depending on market conditions .

If Angola secures up to 30% and Botswana increases its holding, the two African producers would collectively control a substantial share of De Beers.

He claimed the move was intended to “hush up” alleged abuses committed by the Congolese army and groups fighting alongside it, including local militias known as Wazalendo.

The allegations come following reports of renewed violence , looting and civilian displacement in Uvira following the withdrawal of AFC/M23 fighters from the city on January 15. After the rebels left, government troops, Wazalendo militias and other allied forces entered the city.

Local residents have reported gunfire and widespread looting, with homes, public buildings and places of worship targeted. Some residents, particularly from the Banyamulenge community, have fled the area fearing further violence.

AFC/M23 said it withdrew from Uvira as a gesture of good faith and called on the United Nations to deploy a neutral force to protect civilians and place the city under international responsibility. The Congolese government is yet to respond.

Ekane was arrested on October 24 in Douala following the post-election protest and was detained at a military garrison in Yaoundé on charges of hostility against the state, incitement to revolt, and calls for insurrection. Ekane denied all accusations.

The arrest came after the contested presidential election on October 12, in which President Paul Biya, aged 92, was declared the winner. Ekane, along with other opposition figures, rejected the results. 

Rival candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary also claimed victory and urged the population to reject the official outcome.

Ekane's party said he was in poor health during detention and lacked access to vital medical equipment. According to his lawyer, Ngouana Ulrich Juvenal, Ekane was barely able to speak during a recent visit. His sister, Mariane Simon-Ekane, confirmed his death on Facebook.

On November 30, Manidem issued a statement requesting his urgent transfer to a hospital that could provide more suitable care. The party had previously reported that essential medical equipment, including Ekane’s oxygen concentrator, was locked in his impounded vehicle at a military police station in Douala. Efforts to retrieve the equipment were allegedly blocked by the station commander. 

Ekane’s detention, along with that of fellow Manidem member Florence Aimee Titcho and other Tchiroma supporters, was condemned by opposition groups. These groups had called for their immediate and unconditional release.

In its November 30 statement, Manidem warned that it "would hold the Yaoundé regime responsible for the consequences of refusing the transfer".

Cameroon’s defence ministry confirmed Ekane’s death on Monday, citing "an illness" and announcing that an investigation had been opened into the circumstances.

Ekane had been active in Cameroonian politics since the early 1990s. He initially supported Maurice Kamto, who was later banned from contesting the election, and subsequently backed Issa Tchiroma.

Tchiroma, following the unrest, has since fled to Gambia, where he is being hosted on humanitarian grounds, according to Gambian authorities.

President Paul Biya was sworn in for an eighth term on November 6 in Yaoundé. Despite the youthful population of Cameroon’s 29 million citizens, where the median age is 18, Biya—who has ruled for more than four decades—will continue in office for another seven years.

What they said

“The former president, who has been receiving specialised treatment in South Africa, died today on Thursday, 5th June,” the Patriotic Front’s statement on Facebook said. Noureddin Bongo described the trial as a “rubber-stamping exercise,” adding that it had been “predetermined in [Oligui Nguema’s office] a long time ago.” He told AFP, “We know full well that if we go back, we will suffer things far worse than we have already suffered... We are not opposed to the idea of being held accountable for so-called acts we may have committed, but only if it is before an independent and genuine court of law.” Prosecutor Eddy Minang told the court that evidence from witnesses revealed “a system of diverting public funds for the benefit of private interests.”

While reaffirming the group's continued participation in the Doha talks, Nangaa warned that persistent military aggression by government forces could jeopardise their involvement. “We are subjected to continuous and repeated bombings… our good faith has limits. We will not allow criminals to continue killing our people ,” he said.

Local reports have confirmed an uptick in violence across the conflict-ridden Kivu provinces, including a recent attack on the Twangiza mining site, Viory reports. The clashes come as the peace process, mediated by Qatar and aimed at ending long-standing hostilities, remains fragile and under threat.

“We have no other occupations apart from the mining site,” she explains. “Going to the fields currently puts our lives at risk because of the ADF rebels,” she told Viory.

Armed groups like the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) have intensified attacks across eastern DRC, driving thousands from their homes. Local officials warn of daily displacement due to the worsening security crisis. “Mining is what keeps this population alive,” said Monga Mabanga Julio, the governor’s delegate in Njiapanda-Manguredjipa.

According to Oxfam , for every 3kg of Congolese cobalt, Tesla may generate over $3,000 in profit, while the Congolese government earns under $10 in royalties, and miners like Josephine receive barely $7.

Local leaders argue the mineral wealth could still rebuild the nation if managed properly.

“These reserves will allow the Congolese state to finance roads, hospitals, and schools ,” said Katembo Lughala Josue, a mining official.

Despite holding over 70% of the world ’s cobalt supply, the DRC’s mining industry remains plagued by insecurity, poverty, and exploitation.

“The Republic of the Congo firmly believes that a stronger and more effective United Nations is an essential condition for preserving peace and ensuring sustainable development,” he said. “That is why we call for the reform of its bodies, starting with the Security Council, to make them more representative, more transparent, and more attuned to the realities of our world ,” he added.

“Africa can no longer remain marginalised. We must now ensure that it has complete participation in global decision-making. I say it and I say it forcefully, Africa deserves permanent representation on the United Nations Security Council. Not as a recipient of charity, but as a legitimate partner. This is the solemn appeal that the Republic of the Congo makes from this very podium,” he said. 

Sassou Nguesso argued that Africa, a continent of more than 1.4 billion people and one of the world’s youngest and fastest-growing regions, can no longer be sidelined in decisions affecting global peace and security.

Foreign ministers from Commonwealth member states approved Gabon’s return during a meeting held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York . The move restores Gabon to full participation in the organisation it first joined in June 2022.

Officials in Libreville say the country’s reinstatement is recognition of a successful political transition marked by a peaceful constitutional referendum and a presidential election widely described as free and transparent. Gabon’s military leaders had promised a swift return to civilian rule following the coup, which ended decades of one-party dominance.

The Commonwealth had suspended Gabon in 2023 in response to what it called a violation of democratic principles. The suspension froze the country’s participation in official meetings and restricted access to technical support and assistance programs.

Now, the country is looking to re-engage with the Commonwealth’s development agenda, trade opportunities, and diplomatic networks.

According to reports from Médecins Sans Frontières, Dr Prudence Jarrett highlighted the UK Government's obligation to stop arms sales to Israel amidst the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Speaking at an event in Glasgow, she shared her experiences working in the Central African Republic and discussed the mental strains of providing medical care in war-torn regions. Urging for more humanitarian measures, she condemned the violence against healthcare workers and called for the UK to allow more Gazan children to seek medical treatment.

AU welcomes armed group dissolution in CAR

The African Union has reported the dissolution of the Union for Peace in the Central African Republic (UPC) and the 3R group, calling for other factions to also disarm. Following a peace deal earlier this year, AU Commission head Mahmoud Ali Youssouf welcomed this development, urging a commitment to national dialogue. Despite improvements in major cities, sporadic violence persists in remote regions, underscoring the complexities of peace in a nation long affected by civil strife.

CAR delays local elections

Reports from Townpress Newspaper detail the Central African Republic's postponement of local elections , moving the date from August 2025 to December amid rising political tensions. Prime Minister Félix Moloua announced the changes during a committee meeting, igniting calls for electoral reform from opposition parties. With elections last held in 1988 and persistent technical difficulties cited by the National Elections Authority, concerns grow over the electoral process's credibility as multiple significant elections are set for December.

Wagner Group's shooting incident in CAR claims 11 lives

According to reports by the Associated Press, a shooting at a gold mine controlled by the Wagner Group in the Central African Republic resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals, predominantly young locals seeking gold residue. The incident, which remains unconfirmed by authorities, has raised alarms regarding the mercenary group's record of human rights abuses. Residents have expressed outrage over the apparent disregard for life in an area heavily influenced by Wagner's military presence.

WHO's trachoma intervention plan for Nigeria and others

The World Health Organisation has announced plans for trachoma elimination interventions across 20 African nations, including Nigeria. As reported, the continent harbours 90% of the global trachoma burden, necessitating urgent actions to address this neglected tropical disease. Senegal, recently validated for eliminating trachoma, serves as a model through its effective integration of health initiatives and community involvement, emphasising the need for systematic efforts to combat health disparities in the region.

In Kinshasa, Romeo Limaka, a university professor, stressed that ordinary citizens primarily want the fighting to stop. “The people were going to be involved to learn the timelines and outcomes of this agreement with a view to peace, which is much more sought after because that is what is most important to the people: peace, the end of the war,” he said.

However, others fear the exclusion of key stakeholders could sow future unrest. Ngena Ewaenwa, president of EPPAF, voiced concern about armed groups and patriotic factions being left out of negotiations. “But what makes us regret is seeing how the Patriots, the Wazalendo group, the MF23, who fight day and night, were not involved in this agreement. The same goes for us, who are Patriots and carry patriotism in Africa,” he warned. “This is what worries us. So perhaps tomorrow, there could also be bad reactions to unforeseen issues.”

Opposition figures also called for greater transparency and participation. Pacifique Epenge, spokesperson for the Lamuka coalition, said the accord requires substantial revisions. “If there are agreements with the United States , economic agreements, we agree. But now, on this deal, there are many things to improve. There are many things to change. But not everything is bad, just as not everything is good,” he said. Epenge urged religious leaders to convene an inclusive national dialogue. “We want CENCO and ECC to quickly bring us together, including the revivalist churches, so that we can have a national and inclusive dialogue quickly,” he added

From the government’s side, officials emphasised the economic potential of the accord, particularly in the mining sector. Phillipe Undji, secretary of the ruling Sacred Union, said the agreement could finally bring development dividends to Congolese citizens if resources are properly managed. “We must now establish an economic framework that works on traceability: knowing where the minerals come from, where they are sold, at what price, with what interest, and what the DRC gains as the state that owns the minerals,” he explained.

On Tuesday, Tourism and Leisure Minister Bello Bouba Maigari became the second prominent northern politician to step down, saying he would focus on his presidential bid. Maigari, 78, was endorsed over the weekend as the flagbearer of the National Union for Democracy and Progress (NUDP), a party that has traditionally allied with Biya’s Cameroon People ’s Democratic Movement (CPDM).

“This time round, the governing arm of our party has decided that we participate in the next presidential election with our own candidate and has asked me to be that candidate, a request which I have accepted,” Maigari told reporters.

Earlier, Employment and Vocational Training Minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary also resigned to enter the race under the Cameroon National Salvation Front (FNSC). In a 20-page open letter to Cameroonians, Tchiroma, 79, said he was answering the call for new leadership after decades of what he described as stagnation. “The time for self-deception is over,” he wrote. “The time has come to look at our reality head-on, with clarity, courage, and a sense of duty.”

Both men hail from the northern regions of Adamawa, North, and Far North, areas that account for about two million of the more than eight million registered voters, according to the election body, Elecam. Their departures are seen as an unprecedented political challenge to Biya, 92, who has ruled since 1982 but has yet to declare whether he will seek re-election.

A report from the East African indicates that senior government officials have begun efforts to contain further defections. Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh, Secretary-General at the Presidency, convened meetings this week with political leaders from all 10 administrative regions as part of damage-control efforts.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), represented by Denis Kadima, head of the country’s Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI), participated in the launch. Kadima emphasised that ROGEAC marks “an important step in the structuring of electoral cooperation” across the sub-region.

“We chose Burundi because there are elections taking place, so we're killing two birds with one stone,” Kadima said, adding , “We’re adopting the statutes, the internal regulations, the work plan, and electing a new committee to lead this institution.”

Kadima noted that while Central African countries vary in their levels of political stability, they face common challenges in electoral governance. “There is always something to learn from each other,” he said. “This mission includes a solidarity component that strengthens our shared commitment to democratic development.”

ROGEAC aims to standardise best practices in electoral management and foster cooperation among election bodies in member states.

ECCAS, established in 1983, includes 11 member states and seeks to promote regional integration and stability in Central Africa.

“The Grand Inga project is not ours; it’s a DRC project, given to the Spanish and Chinese. We have a right to buy equity in it, which would have to be approved by the DRC. We have not bought that equity, so we can’t really pretend to be managing the Inga project. It is not our project. We have committed ourselves to a quantity of electricity that will be taken up by South Africa, but the driving of the project is out of our jurisdiction,” he is quoted by Daily News .

South Africa signed a treaty with the DRC in 2013 to secure electricity from Inga, with a long-term vision of importing up to 5,000 MW. However, the project has seen repeated delays amid financing and political hurdles.

Crown Prince Adil Nchabaleng, a member of parliament on the ticket of the MK Party, challenged the minister’s optimism, questioning the viability of relying on Grand Inga for domestic power supply. Mantashe, however, maintained that talks with neighbouring countries are ongoing.

Meanwhile, Mantashe also addressed the recent launch of the South African National Petroleum Corporation (SANPC), created through the restructuring of his department. He said the move allows the country to better prioritize petroleum, which still accounts for 80% of global energy consumption, despite the growing focus on renewables.

The Grand Inga project, located on the Congo River, is one of the world ’s largest proposed hydropower schemes.

The Senate voted 88 to 5 in favour of removing Kabila’s protection from prosecution, following accusations by President Felix Tshisekedi that Kabila colluded with the Rwandan-backed M23 militia, which has seized large areas of eastern DRC in recent months. Kabila, who has been abroad since 2023, did not attend the vote, and his current whereabouts remain unknown, the AFP reports.

On the streets of Kinshasa, some residents expressed support for the Senate's decision. “If he is involved, he must be subject to the strictness of the law,” said Charles Salulwa, urging authorities to act only on the basis of solid evidence. Another resident, Celestin Mani, added, “If Kabila is really among those who kill people there, then he can go to hell. That’s it.”

However, members of Kabila’s political party, the People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD), dismissed the move as politically motivated. “There is a will in Felix’s regime to hide the failure of governance ,” said Ferdinand Kambere, the party’s deputy general secretary. “They want to blame Kabila to deflect from their own problems with the M23.”

The IMF mission to Kinshasa, led by Calixte Ahokpossi, IMF Mission Chief for the DRC, conducted a review from April 30 to May 13, 2025, which focused on assessing the progress made under the ECF-supported program initiated following the conclusion of the previous arrangement in 2024.

According to Mr. Ahokpossi, the Congolese economy has demonstrated resilience in the face of persistent challenges. “Economic activity has remained resilient, with robust GDP growth of 6.5 percent in 2024. Growth is projected to remain above 5 percent in 2025, driven by continued dynamism in the extractive sector,” he said in a statement released on May 13.

Inflation fell to single-digit levels in April 2025, the first of its kind since July 2022.

Despite the positive economic trajectory, the DRC continues to grapple with the fallout from intensified conflict in its eastern regions. “Since the last quarter of 2024, the DRC has faced an escalation of armed conflict in its eastern part. The intensification of hostilities has cost the lives of thousands and caused severe humanitarian, social, and economic repercussions, particularly in the provinces of North and South Kivu,” Ahokpossi noted.

The new agreement follows the conclusion of the sixth and final review of the previous ECF-supported program launched in 2021, valued at USD 1.5 billion. That program helped significantly boost the DRC’s international reserves from $1.7 billion to $6 billion, which contributed to gradual macroeconomic stabilization despite challenging circumstances.

Manganese, traditionally used in steel production, has become critical for the manufacture of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, where demand for high-purity manganese compounds is surging. This shift is positioning resource-rich countries like Gabon at the forefront of global supply chains, supporting both industrial and green energy transitions.

Gabon’s output, driven largely by the Compagnie Minière de l'Ogooué (Comilog), a subsidiary of French mining group Eramet, plays a significant role in global supply. The company operates the Moanda mine, one of the world ’s largest sources of high-grade manganese. Despite a temporary production halt in late 2024 due to market oversupply, operations have since resumed.

The U.S. Geological Survey ranks South Africa as the leading country in manganese reserves with 560 million tonnes, followed by China (280 million tonnes), Brazil (270 million tonnes), and Australia (110 million tonnes), with Gabon rounding out the top five.

The U.S. remains a major importer of Gabonese manganese, with the West African country accounting for 63% of American imports in 2024.

Despite strict export controls, scientists like microbiologist Yoan Mboussou believe Iboga could be a transformative force. “There’s real potential to leverage Iboga for our economy , our society, and the nation,” he says.

“I, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, elected President of the Republic, pledge before God and our ancestors and the people of Gabon to preserve all my strength for their well-being,” Oligui declared during the ceremony.

The event was attended by several regional leaders, including Senegal’s Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Gambia’s Adama Barrow, Djibouti’s Ismail Omar Guelleh, Equatorial Guinea’s Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, DR Congo’s Felix Tshisekedi, and  Rwanda ’s Paul Kagame.

In the crowd, citizens expressed optimism and tempered expectations. Laetitia Kelly, a 35-year-old beautician, told the AFP, “I came here today to see what I voted for on April 12. What I expect now is that the president continues the good work he started since August 30.”

Ralph Ondounda, a 40-year-old electromechanical engineer, emphasised the needs of the country’s younger generation, “For the next seven years, we expect the president-elect to respect his commitments. Young people need to be empowered, they need jobs and social services. But really, this is about all Gabonese people.”

Among those voicing this hope was Jeremie Kamundele, a local resident, who emphasised the need for a pope capable of "embodying certain authentic values of the Roman Catholic Church."

Kamundele told the AFP, "We hope that the next pope, God willing, will be an African pope, to preserve and embody certain authentic values of the Roman Catholic Church." He also reflected warmly on Pope Francis, calling him "a pope of the poor" and praising his efforts to promote peace , particularly his calls during a visit two years ago for greater African autonomy.

Marie Salima, another faithful attending the funeral broadcast, shared that, "first of all, I'd like to offer my condolences to the whole Church and especially to our archdiocese of Kinshasa," she said.

Adding, "But with regard to the selection of the new pope, I'd like it to be an African pope this time, why not, because we'd also like to be represented at the Holy See." For Salima and many others, the dream of an African pope represents a broader desire for acknowledgement and leadership on the global religious stage.

However, some voices urged a more universal perspective. Noella Ntungi, another Kinshasa resident, stressed that the selection of a pope should transcend racial considerations. "I think that first of all, it's not a question of race," she said. "It will please us as Africans, but above all, it should be about who is best suited to lead the Church."

Pope Francis died on Easter Monday at age 88.

The vote marks the official transition from military to civilian rule after Oligui seized power in a coup in August 2023, toppling longtime president Ali Bongo Ondimba. His win solidified his position as head of state under Gabon’s newly proclaimed Fifth Republic.

“Tomorrow is a working day. We must now turn the page on the presidential election,” Oligui said. “Our country is still developing. I invite you to resume your professional activities in this Fifth Republic that we call with all our wishes.”

While the landslide result was expected, critics have raised concerns about transparency and fairness in the electoral process. Nevertheless, Oligui’s administration has pledged to implement reforms and foster greater stability in the oil-rich Central African nation.

At a polling station in Libreville, voter Jeanne d’Arc Akomuom, 28, told the AFP that she was voting for real change.

“On this April 12th, I came to vote for what is precisely a change. What I expect from the new president... is to promote employment for the youth and try to solve the water and electricity problems that prevail in our city, Libreville,” she said.

Despite Gabon’s considerable oil wealth, the country of 2.3 million people  continues to struggle with high unemployment, frequent power outages, water shortages, and a crippling infrastructure gap. Official data shows that only 2,000 of Gabon’s 10,000 kilometers (6,213 miles) of roads are currently usable.

At another polling station, 30-year-old voter Aurele Ossatanga Mouila emphasised the urgency of tackling youth unemployment.

“The new president must really put emphasis on the unemployment issue. He should think about the youth... he really has to find jobs for young Gabonese. It's a really important thing,” Mouila said.

Supporters of Brice Oligui Nguema, the transitional president since the August 2023 coup, appeared confident in his victory.

“It was important for me to come vote. My vote counts to elect a new president, a new Gabon, which is our choice — President Brice Oligui Nguema,” said Eugénie Tchitembo Onanga, 68. “This is cash victory, the choice of God,” he added.

Nguema, a former commander of the Republican Guard, has led the transitional government since removing the Bongo dynasty, which had ruled Gabon for over 55 years.

Over 90 women from communities surrounding the MMG Kinsevere mine have successfully completed a literacy training program, learning to read, write, and manage their household finances. The initiative, supported by MMG Kinsevere and NGO Alpha Congo, has transformed lives in 20 surrounding villages, benefiting nearly 1,400 people over the past decade. MMG’s Director of Social Development, Michel Santos, highlighted the company’s $13,000 annual investment in the program and emphasised the growing role of educated women in community leadership. The initiative is part of the company’s broader efforts to support sustainable development and gender inclusion, Desk Eco reports. Many of the women shared powerful testimonies. One of the beneficiaries said, "I got married very young. I couldn't go far in my studies. Mastering neither reading nor writing, I frequently caused losses in the cash register, which created tensions in my marriage. Today, it's different. Since I was trained, I know how to save money. Currently, I have opened a food shop in the Kawama village, which helps me to send my children to school.”  

Coffee prices climb, cocoa dips on global market

The Ministry of Foreign Trade has published updated export prices for Congolese agricultural products for April 7–12. Robusta coffee rose slightly to $5.49 per kilogram, while Arabica coffee climbed to $7.55. Desk Eco reports that cocoa saw a minor decline, now trading at $7.88 per kilogram. Papain showed a modest increase to $22.44 per kilogram. Meanwhile, prices for tea, soy, palm oil, sesame, and rubber remained stable. These shifts reflect a mixed but largely stable outlook for the DRC’s agricultural exports, amid growing global demand and supply chain adjustments.

247 Polio cases since 2017

The province of Tanganyika has recorded 247 cases of polio-induced paralysis in children since 2017, according to Health Minister Dr. Benoit Malumbi. Speaking at the launch of a new vaccination campaign on April 10, Dr Malumbi revealed four new cases had already been confirmed in early 2024 in the health zones of Kalemie, Nyemba, Nkansimba, and Nyunzu. "Since 2017, to date, 247 children have been spread over the six territories of the province of Tanganyika. These children will never walk again because of polio, yet a vaccine-preventable disease," Radio Okapi quotes Dr. Malumbi. He stressed the urgency of vaccinating the province’s 873,717 at-risk children and called on parents and community leaders to fight misinformation and vaccine resistance, especially among certain religious groups.

Government overspending creates $874.9m cash deficit

The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo significantly overspent its March 2025 budget, executing expenditures worth $1.47 billion—38.6% higher than the planned $1.06 billion. This marks a 78.1% increase compared to March 2024, driven largely by civil servant salaries and government subsidies. Actualite reports further that capital expenditures also exceeded projections, rising from an expected $55 million to $74.5 million, possibly due to increased infrastructure investments. However, revenues of $2.86 billion failed to meet the government’s spending needs, resulting in a monthly cash deficit of $874.9 million. The figures signal mounting fiscal pressures on public finances.

Banana deep-water port to open in 2026

The deep-water port in Banana, Kongo Central, is expected to receive its first ships in 2026, according to Prime Minister Judith Suminwa. During her visit to DP World headquarters in Dubai, she reaffirmed the DRC’s commitment to completing the long-delayed infrastructure project. “The president and the government are fully behind this initiative,” Suminwa said, adding that progress was on track following discussions with DP World executives. Once operational, the Banana Port will enhance the DRC’s access to global trade routes and support the country’s integration into international supply chains, Desk Eco reports.

Local media Desk Eco reports that the bulk of the DRC’s tin exports came from industrial operations, which accounted for 63% of the total export volume. Industrial producers shipped 27,100 tons of cassiterite (tin ore), valued at approximately $350 million.

The artisanal or small-scale mining sector contributed 15,852 tons worth $162.8 million.

Market dominance remains firmly with Alphamin Bisie, a major mining firm responsible for 99% of all industrial tin exports from the DRC in 2024. The company alone exported 26,932 tons, generating $348.6 million.

Tin, which is primarily used for soldering in electronics and as a corrosion-resistant coating in food packaging (tinplate), has seen a sharp increase in global market prices. Disruptions in supply, including temporary export halts, helped drive the metal’s price from $25,175 per ton at the end of 2023 to $32,640 per ton by December 2024. As of now, tin is trading at approximately $35,000 per ton.

In 2023, DRC was rated as one of the top five biggest suppliers of tin on international markets, along with Australia, Nigeria, and Rwanda. 

The gap is particularly concerning in light of the suspension of humanitarian aid from the United States, previously the country’s largest donor via USAID, local news portal Actualite reports.

The U.S. funding freeze has raised fears of a resurgence in infectious diseases , particularly in eastern DRC, where armed conflict and population displacement continue to hinder health interventions.

In response, President Félix Tshisekedi has directed his government to explore alternative solutions to cushion the impact of the suspended aid.

The DRC officially declared a Mpox epidemic in early 2022. Since then, the disease has spread to all 26 provinces, fueled by a mutated strain of the virus that facilitates rapid human-to-human and sexual transmission.

From January 2024 to mid-March 2025, the country reported 89,903 suspected Mpox cases, including 16,782 confirmed infections and 1,684 deaths — figures that highlight the urgency of the situation.

As of January 2025, the United Nations reported that around 600 million Africans still lack access to electricity. The outfit further explains that this figure accounts for 80 % of the global electricity access gap.

While countries in Northern Africa, along with nations like Ghana, Gabon, and South Africa, have made progress in improving electricity access, significant challenges persist in Central Africa and the Sahel regions. For instance, Burundi and South Sudan continue to have some of the lowest levels of electricity access, according to 2022 data.

In an ironic turn of events, Africa leads the world in terms of renewable energy share. The region boasts 55.5% of the global share.

Fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas continue to play a vital role in many African economies.

UN projects that the underutilisation of these resources will slow down economies and continually plunge the region into extreme darkness.

With the African Development Bank's Desert to Power Initiative, there seems to be hope for the over 500 million Africans alienated from the power grid.

This flagship renewable energy programme led by the African Development Bank (AfDB) aims to transform countries in the Sahel region including Burkina Faso, Chad, Djibouti and Eritrea into a renewable energy powerhouse by harnessing the region’s abundant solar energy potential.

Additionally, the initiative forecasts generating up to 10 GW of solar power by 2030. It will also provide electricity to around 250 million people, with at least 90 million benefiting from off-grid solutions.

Jolinette Gaba, a 24-year-old mother, described the dire situation as she struggled to find water for her seven-month-old baby.

"We've been here since midnight to fetch water despite the insecurity in certain areas of our neighborhoods. When we come here, we can stay for hours and hours before we get water to prepare food for our children . If there's no water, we have to stay no matter what time it is. Sometimes we get some around 5 PM. The day before yesterday, I left home at 5 AM and got back around 5 PM without finding any,” she told the AFP.

She also shared the impact on childcare, explaining how she is forced to leave her baby at home to search for water. “If I can't find any water, the baby's clothes may be left for two or three days in a basin of dirty water, often full of germs. How are we supposed to live in these conditions ?,” she added.

The crisis is also crippling local businesses. Patrick Kourama, a vendor at the Boyrabe market, explained how the blackouts have led to food spoilage and financial losses.

Kourama said, “Most of our products are frozen, so it's thanks to electricity that we can preserve them to sell to our customers. Products like chicken wings, backs, and thighs need to be fresh. The worst thing is fish like tuna, which spoils very easily without electricity.”

In a statement, Nguema confirmed that the Ministry of National Defense had approved his request to enter politics, making him eligible to run for office.

"I am happy today to inform you that the Ministry of National Defense has favourably responded to my availability request. This means that since February 27, 2025, I am eligible to engage in politics and even occupy the supreme position," he told the AFP.

Despite speculation about forming a political party, Nguema announced he would run as an independent candidate. Instead, he introduced a political platform called " The Builders' Movement," inviting various groups, including political parties, unions, youth organisations, and intellectuals, to support his vision for the country's future.

"There is no reason to create a party. Time does not allow us to do so. But like the others, I will go as an independent," he stated. "Within this platform, I invite associations, political parties, unions, youth, intellectual elites, and all those who have supported me since the beginning of the transition to join us so that together we can build this country and move forward."

Nguema’s candidacy marks a significant moment in Gabon’s transition back to civilian rule. His leadership over the past two years has been marked by efforts to stabilise the nation after the coup .

The April election will be Gabon’s first since the military ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba in August 2023, citing election irregularities and governance failures.

The report attributes the losses to extensive tax exemptions granted to Chinese companies, which have continued to undermine the DRC’s financial gains from the deal. It also criticises the agreement's exclusion from the Congolese Mining Code, allowing unchecked fiscal privileges.

According to CNPV, in 2023 alone, the DRC lost an estimated $443 million in tax and parafiscal exemptions—amounting to 16% of the country's total tax expenditures.

Potential $7.5 billion loss over 17 years

Speaking at the report’s presentation, CNPV member Baby Matabishi warned that if the exemptions remain in place, the DRC could forfeit up to $7.5 billion over the next 17 years. These losses stem from  Law No. 14/005, which grants sweeping tax, customs, and parafiscal exemptions to collaboration agreements and cooperative projects, including the Sino-Congolese contract.

"This contract has remained structurally imbalanced since its inception," Matabishi stated. Adding that, "For years, we have warned about the problematic nature of these sweeping exemptions and the contract’s management outside of traditional government institutions."

Although the agreement was signed in 2008 without a solid legal foundation, the Congolese government justified the exemptions as necessary for repaying loans used to fund infrastructure projects and develop mining operations. Even after the introduction of a new Mining Code in 2018, the contract continues to operate outside its framework, maintaining its independent tax structure.

Eventually pushed back to Goma, Congolese forces found themselves trapped—surrounded by the enemy on one side and Lake Kivu on the other, the AFP reports.

Angola’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 3.8% in 2024, driven by a recovery in the oil sector, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). However, the IMF warns that budget consolidation efforts have weakened due to rising capital expenditures and slow fuel subsidies reforms. Inflation remains high, and the currency depreciated over 10% against the US dollar in 2024, Angola Noticias reports. While the debt-to-GDP ratio declined, high external debt service continues to pressure the economy. The IMF projects 3% growth in 2025 but cautions about ongoing risks. "Growth is expected to remain at 3% in 2025, while inflation is expected to decrease with the disappearance of cost factors," estimates the IMF.

Angola among Africa’s 'less free' nations  

Freedom House’s "Freedom in the World 2025" report ranks Angola among Africa’s least free nations, scoring 28 out of 100. The report cites systematic repression of political dissent, despite some anti-corruption efforts under President João Lourenço. According to the study, "Angola has been governed by the same party since independence, and the authorities have systematically repressed political dissidence. Since the election of President João Lourenço in 2017, the government has taken measures to repress endemic corruption and eased restrictions on the press and civil society, but serious challenges persist in terms of governance and human rights," Angola24horas reports. Equatorial Guinea scored lower, ranking among the continent’s worst, while Cape Verde and São Tomé and Príncipe were the most democratic Lusophone African countries.

Angolan president cancels Timor-Leste visit  

The Angolan President João Lourenço has postponed his visit to Timor-Leste due to responsibilities as the African Union (AU) chair. Lourenço’s mediation of the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, according to the presidency, remains a priority. "Unfortunately, the President of Angola has postponed the trip because Angola has assumed the presidency of the African Union, a great responsibility and a great honour," José Ramos-Horta told journalists. Ramos-Horta emphasised Timor-Leste’s understanding of the situation, noting that the president's planned visits to Australia and Indonesia are also now unlikely due to his AU commitments, Novo Journal reports.

Over 3,000 killed in road accidents in 2024  

Angola recorded 3,120 road accident deaths in 2024, up from 2,915 in 2023, despite a decline in overall accidents from 13,597 to 12,303. Injuries slightly decreased to 16,282. Luanda had the highest toll, with 2,650 accidents causing 954 deaths, Novo Journal reports. Major causes include speeding, drunk driving, poor road conditions, and mobile phone use while driving. Motorcycle riders, especially moto-taxi operators, were involved in a significant number of accidents.

Missionary's wife charged with murder  

Jackie Shroyer, wife of slain American missionary Beau Shroyer, has been formally charged with murder. Shroyer was stabbed in Huila Province in October 2023. The Criminal Investigation Service (SIC) claims Jackie orchestrated the crime with hired help. The couple arrived in Angola in 2021 for missionary work with SIM, a religious organisation. According to Angola Noticias , their children remain in the care of close family, while Jackie awaits trial, expected within six months.

John Baraka, a 33-year-old unemployed resident, expressed his hopes for a better future: "You know, we have no choice. The people of Bukavu expect, above all, to see improvements in our lives - jobs and economic growth. We want young people to have opportunities and for everyone's living conditions to improve."

Similarly, Jean-Claude Mazombo, a father of six, emphasised the need for change: "We expect the new leaders to bring real transformation, unlike what we experienced in the past. We struggled with unemployment, but we hope the current authorities will listen to us and provide opportunities."

Another resident, Fiston, echoed these sentiments, stating, "We hope to see changes in all sectors. Young graduates need jobs. We want our education to count so that we can support our families."

UN Security Council Calls on Rwanda to Halt Support for M23

Meanwhile, as rebels continue their advance in eastern DR Congo, the United Nations Security Council has, for the first time, called on Rwanda to cease its backing of the M23 group and to put an end to the violence. UN experts estimate that the group has received support from approximately 4,000 Rwandan soldiers, the AFP reports.

The rapid territorial expansion of M23 has forced thousands of people to flee their homes. The rebel group now controls significant portions of eastern DR Congo, a region known for its wealth of natural resources. Fighters seized the South Kivu provincial capital, Bukavu, on Sunday, just weeks after taking control of Goma, the capital of North Kivu and the largest city in the country's eastern region.

The Congolese government has implemented new measures to combat mining smuggling in the eastern region. Minister of Mines, Kizito Pakabomba, announced on February 18 that a memorandum of understanding has been signed with the European Union to ensure the traceability of minerals, Radio Kapi reports. The DRC aims to curb illicit mineral trade by leveraging economic and diplomatic strategies, including ICGLR measures to track mineral origins and prevent the sale of minerals from conflict zones.

U.S. sanctions M23 spokesperson

The U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned Lawrence Kanyuka, a key M23 figure, along with his two companies - Kingston Holding (France) and Kingston Fresh (UK) - on February 20. The sanctions follow M23’s violent occupation of Goma and Bukavu, resulting in civilian casualties. Acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Bradley T. Smith said , “OFAC is also sanctioning Lawrence Kanyuka Kingston (Kanyuka), a prominent member and spokesperson for M23 and the Congo River Alliance, and two of Kanyuka’s companies registered in the United Kingdom and France. In late January, M23 and the Rwandan Defense Forces (RDF) captured Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu in the DRC, in a battle that killed thousands of civilians. M23 and the RDF continued their advance, capturing Kavumu Airport, a key transportation hub in eastern DRC, and occupying the city of Bukavu, the provincial capital of South Kivu." The Congolese government welcomed the sanctions and urged other institutions to take similar action.

DRC condemns African Security Council members

At a UN Security Council session on February 19, the DRC criticised Algeria, Somalia, and Sierra Leone for refusing to condemn Rwanda’s support for M23 rebels. Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner accused the three nations of aligning with the African Union’s reluctance to denounce Rwanda, despite UN evidence of its involvement. "Mr President, three meetings in less than a month? Today, you all condemned Rwanda in your speeches. I apologize to all of you, except the A3, namely Algeria, Somalia and Sierra Leone," Wagner is quoted by Deskeco .

U.S. calls for urgent UN action on M23

The U.S. renewed calls for the UN Security Council to take immediate action against the M23 rebellion, accusing Rwanda of fueling the conflict. During a session on February 19, U.S. Deputy Representative Dorothy Camille Shea denounced M23’s repeated ceasefire violations and territorial expansion. The U.S. strongly condemned the capture of Kavumu Airport and Bukavu, calling for Kigali’s return to negotiations to prevent further violence. “How many times do we have to meet to discuss this predictable cycle of violence? For two months, we have consistently watched the M23 and Rwanda ignore the ceasefire, seize territory under false pretenses, and deny that they have no intention of going further, only to repeat this cycle, we have watched the M23 sow chaos, violence against civilians in the streets of Masisi, Goma, and now Bukavu. All under the guise of liberation and the restoration of order. The United States strongly condemns the capture of Kavumu airport and the city of Bukavu by the M23 and Rwandan forces,” Actualite CD quoted Shea.

World Bank pledges budgetary support

Facing economic strain from ongoing conflict, the DRC has received assurances of flexible financial support from the World Bank. Minister of State for Budget Aimé Boji met with World Bank Country Director Albert G. Zeufack, who expressed solidarity and commitment to aiding the DRC. La Prosperite Online reports that the institution acknowledged the war’s severe economic impact and pledged to assist in rationalising public spending while prioritising security and development efforts.

In response to the recent military campaigns, the security system has been reorganized, with troop positions reinforced both in numbers and resources.

According to the general, coordinated air and land operations successfully targeted and dismantled Boko Haram’s front lines and rear bases, significantly bolstering national security.

The Chief of General Staff of the Armed Forces expressed his gratitude to the Chadian people for their unwavering support of the National Army and the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, the Marshal of Chad. He also extended his appreciation to individuals and institutions that contributed to the Defense and Security Forces during this critical operation.

These legislative measures have significantly boosted female representation, which stood at just 1.6% in the first legislature and 15.4% in the last pre-transition assembly.

A representative of the Constitutional Council told Tchad Info , “Women are the linchpin of society. It is only right that they have the place that is theirs by right in our institutions.”

Despite this progress, challenges remain. Experts emphasize the need for continued awareness campaigns to encourage political parties and voters to support women's political participation. Critics argue that while numerical representation is crucial, it must be accompanied by meaningful inclusion in strategic debates and policymaking.

President Touadéra, a mathematics professor, took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce the launch of $CAR, a memecoin he described as an innovative tool to bring people together and elevate the Central African Republic onto the global stage.

"We are launching $CAR – an experiment designed to show how something as simple as a meme can unite people, support national development, and put the Central African Republic on the world stage in a unique way," he posted.

Despite the ambitious vision, the memecoin’s value plummeted by 95% within 24 hours of its release. Initially surging to a market capitalisation of $350 million, the token’s worth nosedived to $37 million by Tuesday, with individual coin prices dropping from their peak to just $0.04, according to data from CoinMarketCap .

Early Challenges and Controversy

The launch, which took place on  Sunday , encountered immediate setbacks. X suspended an official government account created to promote the memecoin after users raised concerns about its legitimacy,  Financial Times  reports. Additionally, deepfake detection tools flagged Touadéra’s announcement video as suspicious, fuelling scepticism about the project.

However, Albert Yaloké Mokpeme, a government spokesperson, confirmed that the president had  " officially announced the launch" of the cryptocurrency. Touadéra also introduced a new website and X account, reaffirming his commitment to the initiative through continued posts from his verified account.

Understanding Memecoins

Memecoins are a category of cryptocurrency that relies entirely on social media hype and trader speculation. Initially inspired by viral internet moments and popular culture references, these tokens have increasingly become a tool for rapid fundraising. However, critics argue that they often resemble “pump-and-dump” schemes, where early investors cash out at the expense of later buyers.

The relative calm follows intense clashes between Congolese soldiers and the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group, which seized control of much of Goma on Sunday. Fighting has largely subsided, but uncertainty looms as M23 fighters gain ground in the mineral-rich region.

On Thursday, January 30, M23 vowed to push further west toward Kinshasa, the DR Congo capital, signalling potential escalation. The group's capture of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, marks a significant development in a region plagued by decades of violence involving multiple armed groups.

Rwanda, which denies backing M23, claims its primary objective is to eliminate fighters linked to the 1994 genocide. However, critics argue the neighbouring country is motivated by a desire to exploit DR Congo's vast mineral reserves, crucial for the global electronics industry.

South African forces are deployed as part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) regional mission and the UN peacekeeping force, MONUSCO, to help stabilise the conflict-prone region.

Ramaphosa emphasised ongoing diplomatic efforts to maintain peace in the region, including conversations with Rwandan President Paul Kagame. "We are insisting that a ceasefire must hold," he told the media .

Minister of Defence Angie Motshekga provided additional details, revealing that M23 had requested safe passage to retrieve their deceased fighters. "We hoisted a white flag to allow this passage, which I am told is a conventional practice in war ," Motshekga said.

She also highlighted Angola’s role in peace negotiations and ongoing discussions involving Rwanda, often accused of supporting the M23. "We are keeping communications open with Rwanda, and there has been no hostility between us," Motshekga added.

The attacks in DRC have triggered a severe humanitarian crisis, forcing thousands to flee further south into the already volatile South Kivu region or seek refuge across the Rwandan border. The UN reports that over 500,000 people have been displaced since January, while hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties, many of whom are civilians.

"However, it should be noted that the polls, which were held on a Sunday, a day of worship for Christians, and in the midst of the end-of-year festive period, attracted only a moderate turnout," Bartchiret explained. "The turnout was 51.56% for the legislative and provincial elections and 50.41% for the municipal elections," he is further quoted by the AFP.

Despite the moderate participation, several political parties emerged prominently in the results. These include the ruling Mouvement Patriotique du Salut (MPS), Rassemblement national pour la démocratie (RNDT-Le Réveil), Union nationale pour la démocratie et le renouveau (UNDR), Rassemblement pour la démocratie et le progrès (RDP), Parti pour les libertés et le développement (PLD), and Paix et Cohésion Sociale (PCS).

For persons seeking a detailed breakdown of the election outcomes, Bartchiret pointed to the ANGE website , where the full results are published.

Freddy Mayombo, a farmer in Bakoussou, explained that while the electric fences offer some protection, they are not foolproof. "For the moment, it helps us keep the elephants away, but when a whole herd comes, they can break through and get in," he said.

Aime Serge Mibambani Ndimba, a senior official from Gabon’s Ministry of Environment, emphasized the need for action to prevent people from taking matters into their own hands. "We must provide assistance to Gabon so that we do not arrive at situations where the population is rising up and taking law into their own hands," he warned, noting that such actions could lead to more violence against elephants.

The issue is widespread, with wildlife conflicts occurring in all nine provinces of Gabon, according to William Moukandja, chief of the Ndangui Wildlife Brigade. The situation has also led to public debate, especially after President Brice Oligui Nguema suggested that shooting elephants in self-defense may be necessary in some cases. This comment has sparked confusion, with Jeremy Mapangou, a lawyer for the NGO Conservation Justice, clarifying that the president's remarks were intended to address self-defense situations.

For many locals, the government’s priority seems unclear. "I don’t know what the government is protecting-human beings or animals?" questioned Mathias Mapiyo, a Bakoussou resident.

Others, like Viviane Metolo, worry about the impact on their livelihoods. "We support our children with agriculture. Now, if the agriculture we do is for the benefit of the elephant, what will happen to us?" she asked.

This constitutional referendum represents a critical step toward the junta's pledge to transition to civilian rule, ending 55 years of the Bongo family's dominance. Gabon's 860,000 registered voters are presented with two options: a green ballot to vote "yes" for the new constitution or a red one to vote "no."

Authorities have mobilised extensive public outreach via television, radio, and social media, urging citizens to participate in this historic vote.

In order to ensure access, the government declared a two-day public holiday leading up to the vote and implemented measures allowing voters to switch polling locations to accommodate travel and weather concerns during the rainy season.

Key provisions of the new constitution

The proposed constitution outlines a two-term, seven-year presidential tenure, eliminates the prime minister role, and bans dynastic transfers of power. It mandates that presidential candidates be exclusively Gabonese, requiring at least one parent born in Gabon and a Gabonese spouse.

According to the military leadership, this is part of its vision to bring stability and transparency to the oil-rich Central African nation.

The coup

This vote follows the August 2023 coup that unseated President Ali Bongo Ondimba shortly after he was declared the winner of an election widely denounced as fraudulent by opposition leaders and the army.

Bongo, who ruled for 14 years, had assumed office following the death of his father, Omar Bongo, who held power for over four decades. Allegations of corruption, embezzlement , and misgovernance plagued the Bongo administration, fueling public discontent and support for the junta's intervention.

General Brice Oligui Nguema , the head of the ruling military junta, has pledged to transition back to civilian rule within two years, with presidential elections slated for August 2025.

While Oligui has openly expressed ambitions to contest that election, the new constitutional framework aims to ensure a fairer, more transparent political system.

In the Sabangali district, young people have been tirelessly building makeshift dams for over three weeks, hoping to hold back the surging water s of the Chari and Logone rivers. The water levels reached a record 8.18 meters this week, surpassing the previous record of 8.14 meters set during Chad’s catastrophic floods in 2022.

Shopkeepers and local residents like Nouba Josué and Mahamat Ibrahim have joined forces, using whatever materials they can to reinforce the riverbanks. "We can't just stand by and let the water destroy our homes," said Josué. 

"We’ve been working non-stop, and if the water hasn’t broken through yet, we believe we can hold it off for a while longer," said Ibrahim.

The urgency of their efforts reflects the crisis the country faces, with more than 10 percent of Chad’s population directly impacted by the floods, according to a report by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

The UN has called for swift action to address the climate crisis affecting West and Central Africa, including Chad. Despite the urgent need, only 15 percent of the $129 million required to manage the flooding disaster has been raised.

Among the convicted are three Americans, as well as a Belgian, a Briton, and a Canadian, all of whom hold dual Congolese nationality. These individuals, along with the others sentenced, were found guilty of charges that included criminal association, attack, and terrorism, according to the military court. 

The appeal hearing began at 11:45 a.m. local time (1045 GMT) on Thursday, October 10, with those convicted dressed in yellow and blue prison uniforms. Each of the accused was called to the front of the court to identify themselves, as lawyers and family members looked on. Richard Bondo, the lawyer for Benjamin Zalman-Polun, one of the Americans sentenced to death, described the proceedings as focused on verifying the identities of those present and confirming the referral of acquitted individuals.

"Today’s hearing consisted of first identifying the 37 convicts and verifying the Court's referral of acquittals who did not appear but were regularly cited," Bondo explained to AFP. He also highlighted the potential for a presidential pardon, saying, "This appeal is of legal interest, to enable the President of the Republic, in the event of a conviction or confirmation of a sentence, to issue a pardon order."

Other lawyers raised concerns about the fairness of the initial trial, particularly regarding the lack of consideration for mitigating circumstances. Tony Muzola, representing Marcel Malanga, another defendant, expressed frustration that such factors had been overlooked. "There are defendants who have been sentenced to death for the first time, and the judge didn’t even take into account what is known in law as extenuating circumstances," Muzola said. 

The alleged coup attempt occurred on May 19, when several dozen armed men attacked the home of then-Economy Minister Vital Kamerhe, now President of the National Assembly. The attackers later moved toward President Felix Tshisekedi's offices, waving flags of Zaire, the name of the country under former dictator Mobutu Sese Seko, who was ousted in 1997.

His show, titled "Mort en exercice à Makala" to wit, 'Death in Exercise at Makala', portrays prison as a place where convicts are "buried alive."

Malafi was recently released after serving a one-month sentence in Makala. He was imprisoned for publicly defending a group of dancers jailed for "indecent exposure." Reflecting on his experience with the AFP, he expressed shock at being arrested for advocating artistic expression.

"For me, it's a shock," he said. "To be arrested because you're a cultural centre, to be arrested because you want to defend artistic expression... I went into prison, and it's like dying in action, dying in what you're doing."

Malafi’s performance wants his performance to be a call for justice for collaboration between the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Culture to protect artists. He argues that artists are the "guardians" of community education and deserve better legal protections.

A director and actor in the show Bavon Diana, praised Malafi’s powerful use of religious symbolism, noting that his portrayal of Jesus speaks to the suffering he endured in Makala. "You can feel it's Jesus, and it tells us what he experienced in prison," he remarked 

Congo’s largest prison, Makala was built with a capacity for only about 1,500 inmates, however now, it hosts over 12,000 inmates. 

What they said

Interim president Mahamat Idriss Deby during his campaign in Chad's capital N'Djamena in April said "Today we are at the final turn on the road to constitutional return… You know me, I am a soldier and I hold my promises. We will strengthen internal security to guarantee peace and stability in our country." Junta-installed prime minister, Succes Masra during the declaration of his candidacy in March also said "We are here as candidates to serve the Chadian people, Chadian men and women… Yes, I am a candidate, and we are candidates to become the next leaders of the country."

“Further investigations have revealed that the fault occurred due to an external incident that resulted in a cut on our submarine cable system in the Atlantic Ocean between Senegal and Cote d'Ivoire, offshore the coast of West Africa. This has disrupted MainOne services south of Senegal through Nigeria. Based on the circumstances, this failure constitutes an event of force majeure, being a situation beyond our control in the ordinary and normal course of business,” a statement released by the company read in part.

In its latest update on the issue, MainOne announced that the regions remain open to internet access and for business, noting that they have collaborated with regional partners “to reroute traffic with restoration capacity, and our observations are that we have stability on our network across the region.”

The statement added, “We are actively working with our maintenance partners, vessel owners, and permitting authorities to expedite the repair of our submarine cable. We are very optimistic that our cable will be repaired as planned and services fully restored so that we can continue to operate with continued integrity of the submarine cable.”

A force majeure is a contractual clause typically present in commercial contracts, allowing a temporary suspension of contractual obligations when unforeseeable circumstances occur. These can range from natural disasters such as fires, floods, or storms to societal disruptions including war, civil unrest, and labour strikes or infrastructure failures. This term essentially refers to unforeseen interruptions or acts of God preventing contract fulfilment.

In the past week, telecommunications firms and financial institutions in Nigeria, Ghana, and other neighbouring countries bore the brunt of an internet outage on Thursday due to damage inflicted on international undersea cables that provide connectivity.

African data centre and connectivity provider MainOne, present in Ghana, Nigeria and Ivory Coast said the internet outage was caused by a break in its submarine cable system.

“ Given the distance from land, and the cable depth of about 3 kms at the point of fault, any kind of human activity – ship anchors, fishing, drilling etc has been immediately ruled out. Our preliminary analysis would suggest some form of seismic activity on the seabed resulted in a break to the cable, but we will obtain more data when the cable is retrieved during the repair exercise ," MainOne said .

People in affected regions have been forced to adapt to life without the digital lifeline they've grown accustomed to. While the internet has been largely restored in countries like Liberia and South Africa, the same cannot be said for countries like Ghana and Nigeria. However, they have reported a gradual improvement in their internet connectivity.

People living in these affected areas have taken to social media to express their frustration, share experiences about how living without internet has been for them, and even find moments of humour amid the inconvenience.

Social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has been a buzz with posts from individuals from the affected areas.

Below are some reactions following the major internet blackout.

What they said

The leader of the Socialist Party Without Borders (PSF), Yaya Dillo, who reportedly has been killed, was a prominent critic of Chad's transitional president, Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno. Dillo, while alive denied any connection to the attack that resulted in several casualties. He said, “The desired goal is to prevent me, to physically eliminate me, to make me afraid so that I don't go to the election." The attack occurred a day after the announcement of election dates to possibly restore the country to democratic rule. The government of the Central African nation also said in a statement “that anyone attempting to disrupt the ongoing democratic process in the country will face legal action and be brought to justice.”