EZEMA deputy leader Negatu Wolde urged voters to move away from ethnic-based politics .

“We call on the people of our country to use this opportunity as a golden opportunity to break free from the cycle of ethnic politics that has oppressed, isolated and divided our country for many years,” he told Viory.

The election campaign has been overshadowed by concerns over media freedom, political inclusiveness and security challenges. EZEMA member Eyouel Solomon accused the government of dominating the media landscape and limiting fair political competition.

“We have seen two things: commercial media that sometimes give some space for opposition parties, and government media that acts as the mouth of the government,” he said. “This is not fair.”

The process has also been disrupted by ongoing conflicts in the Amhara and Oromia regions. Ethiopia’s National Election Board suspended polling in 46 districts affected by insecurity.

Despite the tensions, supporters at the rally expressed confidence that EZEMA could make gains in the June 1 vote.

“If it wins, it is a worthy party that has shown its ability to lead the country,” supporter Dagem Assefa said. “But if it loses, it will prepare peacefully for the next election.”

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who has led Ethiopia for eight years, heads the ruling Prosperity Party, which was formed in 2019 from the former Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front coalition.

“Uganda is temporarily closing the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo with immediate effect,” Atwine told reporters.

She said only authorised Ebola response teams, humanitarian operations, cargo transport and security personnel would be allowed to cross, subject to strict health screening and monitoring.

Atwine added that anyone permitted to enter Uganda from the DRC by land or air would face mandatory 21-day isolation measures.

The ministry has also deployed locator phone systems at border posts and airports to improve tracking and contact tracing.

Uganda has so far reported seven Ebola cases and one death linked to the outbreak centred in eastern Congo’s Ituri province.

The first imported case in Uganda died in Kampala on May 14 before tests confirmed infection with the rare Bundibugyo strain of Ebola.

The DRC and Uganda officially declared outbreaks on May 15 after laboratory confirmation of the virus, prompting the World Health Organization to later classify the situation as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

Health officials are particularly concerned because there is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment for the Bundibugyo strain.

The WHO has advised against blanket border closures, warning they could encourage people to use informal crossings and undermine surveillance efforts. Ugandan authorities, however, say tighter controls are necessary because of heavy cross-border movement and increased risks to healthcare workers.

“African nuclear energy will not be imported nuclear energy,” Gnassingbé said. “It will be nuclear energy designed, operated and governed by Africans, for the benefit of Africa.”

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan stressed the importance of regional cooperation in building Africa’s nuclear capacity.

“Tanzania strongly believes that regional cooperation is essential for Africa’s successful nuclear energy future,” she said.

Hassan added that partnerships with international organisations and other countries would help African states strengthen expertise and regulatory systems.

The summit brought together presidents, ministers, regulators and international nuclear officials as African countries examined nuclear energy as part of broader efforts to address electricity shortages and rising energy costs.

Discussions focused on financing nuclear infrastructure, training local specialists and developing small modular reactors, known as SMRs, which many participants described as better suited to African energy systems.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame said small modular reactors offered the most practical solution for many African countries because they can be introduced gradually and connected to smaller electricity grids at lower cost.

“ Renewable energy will remain indispensable, particularly solar and hydro, where Africa has enormous potential,” Kagame said.

African governments have increasingly argued that nuclear power should complement renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and hydroelectricity as part of long-term energy transition strategies.

“For Africa, we have to leverage our competitive advantage,” Kagame said. “Why is Africa always at a disadvantage when you have almost everything?”

He argued that Africa possesses abundant mineral, energy and human resources, yet continues to lose much of its wealth cheaply to more powerful nations.

“We must be able to say no,” Kagame said, warning against Africa being “ripped off” by countries with greater geopolitical influence.

Kagame also highlighted Africa’s growing population and expanding middle class, saying the continent has the workforce and potential needed to drive economic growth and industrialisation.

Responding to a question about Africa’s role amid rising global tensions, Kagame described the current geopolitical climate as a “wake-up call” and urged African countries to use the uncertainty to reclaim economic sovereignty.

The two-day Africa CEO Forum has brought together heads of state and more than 2,000 business leaders and investors from 75 countries in Kigali.

During the ceremony, Museveni also performed a traditional warrior gesture with a ceremonial sword and shield.

Museveni, who has ruled Uganda since 1986, was declared winner of the January 2026 presidential election with 71.65% of the vote. His latest term will run from 2026 to 2031.

The election was held amid a nationwide internet blackout, which the government said was intended to limit misinformation. The opposition, however, accused authorities of using the shutdown to conceal alleged electoral fraud.

Technical failures also disrupted voting , forcing officials to rely on manual registers. Museveni accused the opposition of orchestrating the disruptions in an attempt to manipulate the vote.

President William Ruto has announced a Ksh10 million (approx. US$77,400) funding offer for Kenyan content creators producing films and art around affordable housing and health. Speaking at the 14th Kalasha International Film and TV Market Festival and Awards at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Ruto said the government was ready to support creatives whose work tells stories linked to national priorities. “I am making an offer. Those who want to pursue film and art in this space of affordable housing, I am asking my friends from the Kenya Film Commission to include those categories. I am going to make an offer of Ksh10 million each in affordable housing and in health,” he said. Ruto also directed that 30 percent of all government advertising be channelled through creative platforms, saying the move would support young talent in digital creation, film and music. “I can confirm that the government has the resources to support and partner with creatives who tell our stories,” he said , at an event that drew more than 3,000 delegates, 100 exhibitors and representatives from over 30 countries.

Finance Bill targets crypto and digital platforms

Kenya’s Finance Bill 2026 has proposed major changes to the taxation of the digital economy, with new rules targeting virtual assets, online platforms and electronic transactions. The Bill seeks to bring cryptocurrencies, digital tokens and virtual asset service providers more firmly under the Kenya Revenue Authority’s reporting framework. Exchanges and trading platforms will be required to file annual information returns detailing users, transactions and controlling interests. The proposals also introduce tougher penalties for non-compliance, including fines of up to Ksh100,000 (approx. US$774) per false statement or imprisonment of up to three years, while failure to file returns may attract penalties of up to Ksh1 million (around US$7,740). “The Tax Procedures Act is amended by inserting new sections after section 6B, requiring a virtual asset service provider to file an information return if it facilitates exchange transactions, provides a trading platform on behalf of a customer, or acts as a counterparty or intermediary in such transactions,” the proposals read .

Ruto to address Tanzanian parliament in historic visit

President William Ruto is expected to address Tanzania’s parliament in Dodoma on May 5, 2026, in what officials have described as a historic moment for Kenya-Tanzania relations. Tanzania’s Deputy Speaker Daniel Sillo said the address, scheduled for 11am, would be attended by top national leaders and would focus on strengthening cooperation between the two neighbours. “We wish to inform you that on Tuesday, 5th May 2026, Hon Pr William Ruto, the President of Kenya, will address the Parliament here in Dodoma,” Sillo said . “This very important and historical event, which will also be attended by our top leaders, is aimed at strengthening cooperation and brotherhood between Tanzania and Kenya.” It will be the first time a Kenyan president addresses the Tanzanian parliament.

Israel deploys mobile climate lab in Kenya

Israel has deployed a mobile climate laboratory in Kenya to help close Africa’s climate data gap and strengthen evidence-based policymaking. The facility, stationed in Machakos County after two months of operation in the country, is hosted at the International Livestock Research Institute’s Kapiti site and is designed to measure climate-related conditions across different ecosystems. Israel’s Ambassador to Kenya, Gideon Behar, said the lab would support better preparation for climate change. “We must remember that there is a huge gap in climate data and climate knowledge in Africa, and the work of this laboratory helps us close this gap,” he said. “It enables us to be better prepared for climate change and to make better policy decisions based on real and accurate science.” Behar described it as “the first-ever climate mobile lab not only in Africa but possibly in the world,” adding that its scientific work would support the global fight against climate change.  

Kenya pushes local mineral processing

Kenya is moving to retain more value from its mineral resources by shifting from raw mineral exports to local processing, refining and manufacturing. Speaking at the 2026 Mining Investment Conference in Nairobi, President Ruto said the country’s strategy is to build integrated industrial value chains around minerals such as gold, titanium, rare earths, gemstones, iron ore, copper, manganese and chromite. “We will process our minerals here on the continent, we will refine them here, we will manufacture them here,” Ruto said . He pointed to the iron ore pelletisation plant in Taita Taveta, now in its final stages of construction, as a key step in Kenya’s industrialisation agenda. The push reflects a wider African effort to stop exporting raw materials while importing finished products made from the same resources.

Somalia’s humanitarian crisis has reached a boiling point: 6.5 million people face acute food insecurity , 2 million at emergency hunger levels. Central and northern Somalia, along with Jubaland State are the worst affected. Jubaland alone hosts half a million distressed people, many of whom are still reeling from lost plantations and hundreds of livestock to prolonged drought and disease.

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) estimates that approximately 62,000 people have been displaced by drought across five districts in Somalia since the beginning of 2026, with at least three out of every four new displacements attributed to severe climatic events.

“The positive forecasts bring hope that there will be rain in the coming weeks, but even with these rains, it is unlikely that we will see significant improvement in food insecurity and malnutrition, because this comes after multiple failed rainy seasons across the country,” notes Francesca Sangiorgi, Save the Children’s Humanitarian Director. She emphasises the damage that Somalia’s erratic rains inflict on critical infrastructure, which hampers service delivery. 

Francesca’s concerns are echoed in IOM’s projection that about 125,000 more people will likely be displaced by drought in the second quarter of 2026 despite the expected rains between April and June. 

Additionally, a Save the Children report estimates that 1.8 million children under five will suffer from acute malnutrition in 2026, including severe cases, while millions lose access to critical services like immunisation as foreign-funded programmes are suspended due to budget gaps.

Foreign aid cuts have left over 80% of humanitarian services unfunded , impeding people’s access to healthcare, nutrition and education in the camps. The US-Israel-Iran conflict has also diverted global attention and disrupted global trade routes, fuelling food insecurity, given that Somalia imports more than 70% of its food. A recent spike in fuel prices and the cost of staple foods like maize and sorghum has worsened the problem.

“There’s no assistance on the horizon. Nothing we’re expecting as of today. I don’t know tomorrow. There’s no sight of any assistance from any quarter or from any humanitarian actor,” says Ali Aden Ali, Jubaland’s Commissioner for Refugees and IDPs. 

The spectre of devastation is evident across several IDP camps in the East African country. In Kismayo, which hosts about half a million people – the majority of them women and children – a cloud of anguish and hopelessness hangs over displaced families at risk of secondary displacement in search of the basic necessities of life.

Somalia’s situation highlights the need for strategic investment in climate change mitigation. Countries facing drought-induced displacement must prioritise disaster preparedness, post-disaster management, and climate‑resilient agriculture in the hardest-hit regions. This could boost local food production and help curb forced migration and food insecurity.

The article solely represents the views of Simpson Muhwezi,  a Ugandan freelance writer and development practitioner.

In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa broke her own world record with a time of 2:15:41, finishing ahead of Kenya’s Hellen Obiri and Joyciline Jepkosgei, another clean sweep for African athletes.

When it comes to marathon running at the highest level, Africa, particularly East African runners, has dominated the London Marathon for more than two decades.

Athletes like Kenya's Eliud Kipchoge, a four-time London winner widely regarded as the greatest marathon runner in history, helped cement that legacy. Year after year, the winners’ lists have been overwhelmingly African

First held in 1981, the London Marathon has grown into one of the world’s most prestigious long-distance races, alongside events in Boston, New York, Berlin, Chicago, and Tokyo.

Founded by former Olympic champion Chris Brasher and athlete John Disley, the race was inspired by the inclusive spirit of the New York Marathon, combining elite competition with mass participation and charity fundraising.

Today, it attracts more than 50,000 runners annually and raises hundreds of millions of pounds for charitable causes, making it as much a social event as a sporting spectacle.

The independent commission, led by retired Chief Justice Mohamed Chande Othman, found that 518 people were killed during clashes between security forces and protesters. It also identified major failures in security protocols and law enforcement across several regions.

Samia expressed regret over the deaths and announced measures including a special criminal investigation body, a reconciliation commission and possible constitutional reforms to improve electoral transparency.

She also accepted recommendations to fast-track a new constitution by 2028, reform the National Electoral Commission before the 2029 local polls and review the 2014 draft constitution with fresh public input.

Tanzania, which imports nearly all of its fuel, is particularly vulnerable to global price swings. Energy Minister Deogratius Ndejembi said petrol prices rose by 69% between February and March 2026, while diesel jumped by 104%, with kerosene and jet fuel also seeing sharp increases.

Economist Kelvin Mouris pointed to the potential of natural gas and electric vehicles to reduce costs, but noted that infrastructure gaps remain a challenge despite Tanzania’s large gas reserves.

The government has introduced measures to stabilise supply, including building fuel reserves to cover at least three months. The price surge is linked to disruptions in global oil supply chains, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz.

Footage from the capital showed groups of protesters marching through central Nairobi as police vehicles moved in and several people were detained. Residents said the anger was being driven by record pump prices and the wider cost-of-living squeeze, with transport costs rising sharply for ordinary Kenyans.

Many businesses remained open, but there were reports of blockades and clashes in parts of the central business district before police dispersed the crowds. The demonstrations came despite President William Ruto’s recent insistence that protests would not lower prices and that the focus should be on finding practical solutions.

The protests unfolded against the backdrop of a wider global energy shock linked to the war in the Middle East and restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The International Energy Agency has described the disruption as “the greatest threat to global energy security in history,” with oil supply and tanker movements severely affected.

Tanzania’s tourism sector continues to expand, with visitor numbers reaching 5.9 million by December 2025 as the government targets eight million arrivals by 2030. Tourism currently contributes about 17 percent to the national economy, with plans to raise this to 20 percent. Natural Resources and Tourism Minister Ashatu Kijaji said the growth reflects strong collaboration between government and private stakeholders, as well as sustained marketing efforts such as The Royal Tour. She stressed the need for a supportive legal environment, warning that “we must not allow laws to become an obstacle to achieving the target of eight million tourists by 2030.”

Universal electricity access by 2030

Tanzania is accelerating efforts to achieve nationwide electricity access, with plans to connect the remaining 14,000 hamlets by 2030. So far, about 40,000 hamlets, over 60 percent, have been electrified, while more than 11,000 are currently under implementation. Despite progress, rural access remains uneven at 37.1 percent compared to a national average of 52 percent. Authorities say expanding rural electrification is key to boosting economic activity, education and healthcare delivery.

Luxury safari camp gains global recognition

Mapito Safari Camp near the Serengeti has been nominated for “Africa’s Leading Luxury Tented Safari Camp” at the 2026 World Travel Awards, marking a milestone for Tanzania’s high-end tourism sector. The camp , part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, highlights growing international investment in conservation areas. However, its development also raises questions about balancing luxury tourism with environmental protection and community impact, particularly in ecologically sensitive regions like the Serengeti.

President Samia leads reconciliation talks with former presidential candidates

President Samia Suluhu Hassan has held high-level consultations with candidates from the 2025 general election, bringing together representatives from 16 political parties in a push for national unity. The discussions focused on strengthening reconciliation, democratic governance and political tolerance, in line with her “R4” philosophy, Reconciliation, Resilience, Reforms and Rebuilding. Participants emphasised the need for ethical leadership and sustained dialogue to maintain stability and public trust.

Government bans foreign food aid

Tanzania has directed organisations providing relief food to procure supplies locally, rejecting imported fortified food aid from the United States. Agriculture Minister Hussein Bashe said the country has sufficient domestic production and urged that funds be redirected to support local farmers instead. “Let us purchase the maize, beans and rice from our local farmers,” he said , adding that the policy aims to boost agricultural output and reduce import dependence while strengthening food security.

Looking at the officials before him, the president remarked that he wondered “whether they are here by design or they were waylaid,” before adding , “The way they are dressed, they don't look like they knew they were coming to State House.”

Ruto said future guests who fail to meet the expected standard for official functions could be turned away at the gate. “The manner of dress of these people has no indication about the seriousness of this occasion. We take this occasion very, very seriously,” he said.

Also present at the ceremony were Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, Youth Affairs and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, Housing Principal Secretary Charles Hinga and Council of Economic Advisors chair David Ndii.

Footage from the scene on Friday showed reporters gathered outside the nursery as bloodstains and other signs of the attack remained visible inside the compound, much of which was sealed off by police.

Minister for Higher Education John Chrysestom Muyingo visited the school and said its management had been ordered to submit a full report on the circumstances leading to the children ’s deaths. He said the education ministry would support the bereaved families.

Local media identified the suspect as 39-year-old Christopher Onyum, who reportedly posed as a parent to gain entry to the school before carrying out the attack, Viory report.

Semafor reports that, Kenyan officials have approved a phased return to legal cross-border commerce, including the resumption of exports through three designated border points, following a decision ratified in February.

A major driver behind the shift has been pressure from the khat industry. Khat, a stimulant leaf grown in Kenya and widely consumed in Somalia, is legal in both countries, but the border shutdown forced Kenyan traders to rely heavily on air shipments, increasing costs and squeezing farmers’ earnings.

Producers and trade rs have argued that moving khat by road would cut transport costs, reduce reliance on middlemen and cartels that emerged around the air-export trade, and revive local economies that depend on border commerce.

Rwanda rejected the “break-in” framing, with its embassy in the United States calling the claim a “gross misrepresentation.” Kigali said it was DRC security personnel who escalated the situation, alleging they blocked unarmed Rwandan agents from accessing a shared hallway and elevator area despite both delegations being booked at the same hotel.

Rwanda said the matter was resolved quickly and without further escalation.  

"The Rwandan detail member was briefly restrained from accessing the elevator by DRC security agents, which was inappropriate and wrong behaviour in a common area, but the matter was eventually resolved without further escalation," the Rwandan statement read in part.

Rwanda and the DRC have been in Washington for US-facilitated mediation efforts aimed at easing tensions in eastern Congo, where Kinshasa accuses Kigali of backing the M23 rebel group, an allegation Rwanda denies.  

The matter also follows fresh US sanctions announced on March 2, 2026, targeting the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and senior officers over alleged support to M23, sanctions that Rwanda has condemned.  

But for now, the station is not entirely “unmanned”. Uniformed officers are standing by to demonstrate how the system works, giving the space the feel of a tech showroom rather than a typical police post.

Recently opened, staff “are here to help people get used to it,” the head of the police’s technology expansion department, Cdr Demissie Yilma, told the BBC . Inside one booth, he tapped through the steps of making a report, selecting whether it is a crime, a traffic matter, or a general concern, entering details, and submitting the complaint.

After the report is filed, an officer appears on the screen, a real person based at a remote location, not a chatbot and begins asking follow-up questions and taking down information. “If there is a problem, officers respond immediately and patrol the area mentioned by the reporter,” Demissie said.

In its first week of operation last month, the station received three reports, a lost passport, a financial fraud case and a routine complaint. Demissie said he expects usage to increase as more people become aware of the service. “The future police service should be near the citizens,” he said.

Officials argue the model could expand access to policing in areas where there may not be enough personnel to run a full station, even if it reduces face-to-face contact. At the launch, Abiy was quoted in state media as saying the project aims to make law enforcement institutions “competent and competitive,” framing it as part of a wider digital reform drive.

That push is anchored by Digital Ethiopia 2030, a national strategy to digitise public services from identity systems and payments to courts and public administration. However, internet access remains relatively low in Ethiopia, and recent years of conflict and political upheaval have also led to internet blackouts, slowing the pace of digital transformation.

Even so, Ethiopia has been moving ahead with reforms such as opening up the telecoms sector, expanding mobile phone payments in birr, rolling out a national digital ID, and putting more government services online.

On Sunday, Gachagua, who has declared he wants to block Ruto from winning a second term, mocked the President’s appearance while speaking to supporters. In the remarks, he suggested Ruto had become noticeably thinner and implied the President’s wealth was not legitimate.

Ruto responded on Tuesday with a blunt attack of his own, telling critics to “go to the gym” and accusing them of overeating, with remarks aimed at opponents that were widely interpreted as personal insults rather than political rebuttal.

The exchange has drawn concern among observers that Kenya’s political discourse is sliding further away from policy debates into ridicule and personality-driven attacks, well ahead of the official campaign period.

The country’s general elections are scheduled to be held by August 2027. Voters will elect the president, and members of the National Assembly and Senate.

Prosecutors allege the network fraudulently registered some medical facilities and then submitted claims for procedures that were never performed, draining about KSh 28 million  (approx. US$217,000) from public health funds.

The DPP has also recommended criminal charges against eight facilities named in the case: Kaafi Nursing Home, Dimtu Nursing Limited, Mama Nerbeel Nursing Home, Kamsihawa Medical Centre, Adfeel Kids Care Medical Centre Limited, Julun Nursing Home, Danaba Care Hospital Limited and Alati Nursing Home.

The approved charges include conspiracy to de fraud , operating unlicensed health facilities, acquisition and use of proceeds of crime, unauthorised access to computer systems, computer fraud, obtaining money by false pretence and abuse of office. Investigators believe the scheme relied on fake patient claims, questionable billing practices and access to digital health systems.

In a related case arising from the same probe, Harun Liluma has already been charged and pleaded not guilty. He was released on a KSh 1 million (approx. US$7,700 - 7,800) bond with two sureties or KSh 500,000 (between US$3,850 - 3,900) cash bail, and the matter is due back in court on March 12, 2026, as authorities continue tracing the remaining suspects over alleged offences committed between January 30 and August 25, 2025.

Assistant Director for Human Rights at the Ministry of Constitution and Legal Affairs, Beatrice Edward Mpembo, said the commission was set up by President Samia Suluhu Hassan on November 18, 2025, to investigate what happened, examine root causes and advise the government on solutions.

The commission is chaired by retired Chief Justice Mohamed Chande Othman and includes eight other commissioners. It is mandated to assess issues such as youth grievances, opposition actions, security responses and possible financing behind the violence , and to recommend reforms to strengthen reconciliation and democratic institutions.

Authorities said the process includes public participation through a website and hearings, and that the commission’s report is expected in April 2026 after an extension.

Based on its work, Tanzania has proposed a National Reconciliation Initiative and announced other measures, including pardons for 1,787 youths convicted of minor offences linked to the unrest and the creation of a new Youth Ministry to address unemployment and skills development.

Prosecutors allege Musana unlawfully obtained or processed Gen Kainerugaba’s personal data, including his name and photograph without consent, contrary to Uganda’s Data Protection and Privacy Act. He is also accused of hate speech under the Computer Misuse Act for a TikTok post on March 5 in which he claimed the army chief was not fit to hold office, a statement prosecutors say was likely to “ridicule, degrade or demean” him.

Musana denied the allegations when they were read to him in court.

His lawyer did not immediately comment in court filings cited by prosecutors, while the state requested more time to complete investigations before the case returns for mention later this month.

The case is not Musana’s first court run-in over social media posts. In September 2025, a separate hate speech case against him was dismissed at the Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court after prosecutors failed to proceed. In that matter, authorities had accused him of posts allegedly degrading senior leaders, including the Kabaka of Buganda, President Museveni, Speaker Anita Among and a state minister.

The court found that the Notice of Motion did not meet Order 51 Rule 13 of the Civil Procedure Rules of Kenya (2010), which requires a specific notice statement to appear at the foot of every motion application. The supporting affidavit was also found to be defective for not complying with Order 19, Rules 4 and 5.

Justice Mwamuye said both the motion and the affidavit appeared to be machine-generated, raising broader concerns about the use of artificial intelligence in legal filings.

“Computer-generated documents or outputs of ‘artificial intelligence’ cannot be a proper substitute for human-drawn documents,” the judge said. “A party must draw and file their documents on their own accord and by their own hand or through their legal representatives.”

While the judge noted that the defects were largely technical, he ruled they were serious enough to warrant striking out the application. However, the petitioner was allowed to file a fresh application and affidavit that meet the required legal standards.

The seizure included 105 boxes of Pethidine containing 1,045 bottles, 31 boxes of Morphine Sulphate with 310 bottles, and 44 boxes of Fentanyl holding 440 bottles, the Authority said. Seven suspects were arrested in connection with the case.

DCEA said the medicines are legally used in hospitals to manage severe pain, but warned that when diverted from authorised channels, they can be abused and may cause addiction.

In Tanzania, opioid medicines are regulated under the Drug Control and Enforcement Act and the Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Act, which designates the Medical Stores Department as the only authorised importer and distributor of narcotic medicines.

The Authority said the bus interception came during broader nationwide operations in January and February 2026, which it said resulted in the seizure of 9.93 tonnes of illicit drugs, the confiscation of 1,795 bottles of controlled medicinal narcotics , and the destruction of 87.5 acres of cannabis farms. It said 151 suspects were arrested, while six vehicles and 29 motorcycles were impounded.

In South Africa, markets have already shifted as traders are now pricing no chance of a rate cut at the central bank’s March 26 meeting, after a cut was still being seen as possible just days earlier.

“Until the outlook in the Iran war becomes clearer, significant policy rate decisions by African central banks may be deferred,” said Hasnain Malik, a strategist at research firm Tellimer. He said countries such as Egypt, Kenya and Morocco could be more exposed to disruption than commodity producers like Ghana, Nigeria and South Africa.

Oil has jumped as traders worry about supply and shipping risks linked to Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global energy flows. Higher fuel costs could quickly feed into transport and food prices across the continent.

African markets have also been unsettled by investors pulling money from riskier assets and moving into the US dollar, weakening local currencies . “Borrowing and raising capital just got harder,” said Charlie Robertson, author of The Time Travelling Economist. Chatham House’s Tighisti Amare warned African economies “simply do not have the buffers for another prolonged global shock.”

Kasibante had asked the court on February 5, 2026, to withdraw both the main petition and a related application seeking access to backend electoral data held by the Electoral Commission. He said he lacked the funds for a nationwide forensic audit of election materials, including biometric voter verification systems and servers, and conceded that without the evidence he sought, the petition could not meet the required standard of proof.

The respondents, President Museveni, the Electoral Commission and the Attorney General, did not oppose the withdrawal but requested that the petition be dismissed with costs, saying they had spent significant resources defending the case.

The court said presidential election petitions are matters of high constitutional importance and warned they should not be filed casually, given the logistical and financial implications. It concluded that the evidence on record was insufficient to sustain the petition and ruled, "Presidential Election Petition No. 01 of 2026 is hereby withdrawn."

Veteran President Yoweri Museveni was declared the landslide winner of Uganda's presidential election in January, extending his rule into a fifth decade after a contest marred by violent incidents and allegations of fraud.

Uganda's electoral commission said Museveni had received just under 72% of the vote. His main challenger, the pop singer-turned-politician Bobi Wine, was credited with 24%.

Authorities say 22 victims were rescued during a police operation last September, while three other Kenyans linked to the same pipeline later returned home with injuries after landing on the front line, according to the prosecution.

The case comes amid growing scrutiny of claims that large numbers of Kenyans have been drawn into Russia’s military through recruitment networks. A recent intelligence report presented to Kenya’s parliament put the figure at about 1,000 Kenyans recruited in recent months, many allegedly lured by offers of well-paid civilian work before being pushed into military contracts.

Omwamba pleaded not guilty, while his lawyer, Bonaventure Otieno, dismissed the case as being built on “speculations” and “hearsay.”

The Russian embassy in Nairobi has denied accusations of recruiting Kenyans under false pretences, calling the claims a “dangerous and misleading propaganda campaign,” according to reports.

The cash shortfall has disrupted operations within the regional body. A leaked internal memo from the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) warned of “dire liquidity challenges", saying the Assembly was struggling to pay salaries and allowances. Some parliamentary activities have been slowed or suspended due to the funding gap.

Tanzania and Kenya have reportedly met their full contributions for the 2025/26 financial year, while Uganda has paid most of its dues. However, several member states, including Burundi, South Sudan, Somalia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, have not made payments this year.

Under the EAC Treaty, partner states are required to finance the operations of the community. The treaty allows for sanctions against countries that fail to meet their obligations, including possible suspension of benefits. However, enforcement has historically been weak.

Regional leaders are expected to discuss the crisis at an upcoming summit, where analysts say tough decisions may be needed to prevent further strain on the bloc.

The government of President Emmerson Mnangagwa agreed in 2020 to pay $3.5 billion in compensation to about 3,500 commercial farmers who were evicted during the early 2000s land reform programme. The programme led to the seizure of about 4,000 farms without compensation under former President Robert Mugabe.

Zimbabwe, which is burdened by $21 billion in debt, has struggled to meet the terms of the agreement. In 2023, the government revised its offer to provide 1% of the compensation in cash, with the remainder to be paid in US-dollar-denominated Zimbabwean treasury bonds carrying 2% interest.

Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube told AFP that nearly 1,000 farmers have signed up to the revised arrangement, and several hundred reportedly received some cash and bonds last year. However, the payment process has been slow and unclear, and many farmers have rejected the new terms.

Outside intervention is “not necessarily a bad thing,” Ncube said in reference to reports that the farmers had hired Mercury Public Affairs, a US firm with ties to the Trump administration.

“We are committed to paying, and if they are trying to get other people to get us to pay, we have no problems with that,” Ncube said.

“We are paying anyway, and we would like to pay faster,” he added.

According to a letter in a US Department of Justice disclosure filing, four groups representing former commercial farmers hired the firm to support efforts to secure “full compensation”.

The group would contact administration representatives “to promote paying the Zimbabwean farmers the remaining balance of $3.5 billion owed,” the letter stated. The filing indicated that new financing could be sought from international institutions such as the World Bank.

Many of the affected farmers are now in their 70s and 80s. Some face financial challenges, according to Harry Orphanides of the Property and Farm Compensation Association, one of the groups involved.

“It’s a serious strain on the farmers, especially those who are elderly and have no other sources of income, as they were completely dependent on farming,” Orphanides said.

“Some of them are really desperate,” he added.

The land reform programme aimed to redistribute land that was largely owned by the white minority to black subsistence farmers. The process included violent farm invasions in which farmers were killed. Some farms were later taken over by government officials or ruling party affiliates, while others were neglected. The disruption to the agricultural sector affected the broader economy and contributed to food shortages.

Under the 2020 Global Compensation Deed (GCD), the government agreed to compensate farmers for infrastructure and improvements made on the land, but not for the land itself, which authorities consider to have been taken during colonial settlement.

According to Silayo, 70 honey samples were collected from 34 districts and tested in Germany to verify quality for export markets.

“Our country has the opportunity to access the European Union market and other international markets because 96 per cent of our honey has been proven globally to meet high-quality standards,” he is quoted .

Silayo urged honey producers to avoid using non-standard processing equipment and poor storage containers, warning that quality lapses could undermine export opportunities.

He also said TFS is pushing for more investment in honey processing, noting Tanzania currently has 97 medium and large processing factories. The agency is finalising construction of a new honey processing plant in Nzega, Tabora Region, and rehabilitating two others in Manyoni District and at the Sao Hill tree plantation in Mafinga District.

TFS said production of bee products has risen to an average of 33,861 tonnes, up from 31,179 tonnes, while honey exports have reached 9,500 tonnes valued at 93.3 billion shillings.

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.

However, the recent aid cuts threaten to undo the policy’s gains by hampering humanitarian efforts, as organisations grapple with funding deficiencies that have made the provision of services significantly difficult. A report reveals that the International Rescue Committee, which provides comprehensive humanitarian relief and development support to refugees, has suspended healthcare programs in eleven settlements, including Bidibidi, Kiryandongo, Palabek and Rhino Camp, risking the lives of over 735,000 people, especially women and children who are more vulnerable. 

“The termination of key nutrition and maternal health programs has removed a critical safety net, increasing the risk of maternal and neonatal deaths,” cautions Elijah Okeyo, IRC’s Country Director. He acknowledges the reduction in immunisation, which he warns could cause a spike in preventable diseases such as measles and weaken their ability to respond to emergencies. 

The situation isn’t too different for other players. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has indicated a shortfall of approximately €6.5 million, affecting over 90% of their health funding budget. Consequently, the number of UNHCR-funded healthcare staff has drastically declined, which has lowered the technical capacity of their health centres established in different refugee settlements in Uganda. The impact is visible, with the organisation already reporting tens of preventable deaths, highlighting the need for increased funding in critical sectors, including psychosocial support.

Finn Church Aid, which supports about 127,000 primary school and 19,000 secondary school learners under its education emergencies program, cautions that dwindling aid risks exacerbating infrastructure and logistical gaps , thus fuelling school dropout rates and compromising child protection.

“Both national governments and international donors must prioritise education in emergencies,” urges FCA, emphasising the need for sustainable commitments in order to build resilience.

Nutrition has not been spared either, as the World Food Program has reduced food rations allocated to refugee homesteads in Uganda by 40%. This exposes a population of close to a million to malnutrition, with prevalence rates exceeding 15% in 2025, according to WFP . 

The pressure of shrinking budgets has compelled Uganda to consider mitigating measures. In 2025, the government ceased granting refugee status to people from Somalia, Eritrea and Ethiopia, signalling a shift in the country’s refugee policy. The decision, according to the Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, Hilary Onek, is influenced by the drop in funding, from approximately $240 million to $100 million, despite the ever-surging refugee inflows. This situation restricts access to protection, exposing those displaced from the affected countries to potential harm.

These challenges underscore the need for reforms that strengthen refugee response, particularly as Uganda transitions from a humanitarian approach towards development financing, where local governments are empowered to provide social services as opposed to centralised management. For this to bear fruit, the government must complement humanitarian aid with local resource mobilisation. Uganda must also strengthen local government efficiency and its systems of accountability in order to prevent a recurrence of the 2018 corruption scandal that eroded donor trust and triggered aid cuts.

Editor’s note: Correction made in the opening paragraph. The correct term is “settlement” and not “resettlement”.

The opinions and thoughts expressed in this article reflect only the author's views.

According to a statement from the National Intelligence Service (NIS) presented to the House, as of February, 39 Kenyans are hospitalised, 30 have been repatriated, 28 are missing, 35 remain in military camps, 89 are on the frontline, one is detained, and another has completed his contract.

Ichung’wah said the agencies lured recruits with promises of monthly salaries of about $2,300, bonuses ranging between $6,900 and $9,200, and the possibility of Russian citizenship.

He added that some recruits initially travelled through Istanbul in Turkey and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. Following increased interceptions at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), others have reportedly begun routing through Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Africa to avoid detection.

“For the close to over 1,000 estimated to have gone, not all have travelled from Kenya; some are already in the diaspora who have since moved to go and fight in Russia,” he is quoted by the Standard media .

The Majority Leader also alleged that some rogue airport officials and staff in immigration, investigative agencies and employment authorities may have colluded with recruiters. He further claimed that certain individuals at the Russian embassy in Nairobi and the Kenyan embassy in Moscow were involved in facilitating travel visas.

One of the agencies named in Parliament was Global Face Human Resources Limited, which is not accredited by the National Employment Authority. Authorities previously raided a holding base in Athi River, where passports, unsigned contracts and other materials were seized.

Recruits reportedly underwent about three weeks of training in Moscow before being deployed to the battlefield. Some returnees told investigators they were required to open Russian bank accounts and make payments of up to Sh975,000 (about $7,600) during the recruitment process.

Ichung’wah warned that the recruitment poses serious risks to young Kenyans and could strain diplomatic relations.

“Unlike most minerals, gold combines deep liquidity, transparent pricing, and rapid monetisation,” the report notes, adding that this allows countries to convert domestic production directly into reserves instead of depending on “volatile external inflows.”

Despite its vast deposits, gold accounts for only about $70 billion, roughly 15%, of Africa’s total foreign exchange reserves. The AFC argues that stronger institutions, better oversight and more local refining could unlock greater benefits.

“The strategic value of Africa’s minerals lies in how they can be leveraged to deepen domestic value addition and support regional integration,” the report says.

Ghana is cited as an example. After establishing a Gold Board in 2025 to formalise artisanal production and reduce smuggling, the country has begun to rebuild its reserves, and its currency is beginning to stabilise.

The AFC concludes that “these dynamics are becoming increasingly relevant as central banks re-anchor reserves in gold,” offering Africa a potential pathway to stronger financial stability.

According to data from the Chinese Loans to Africa (CLA) Database, managed by Boston University’s Global Development Policy Centre, Chinese institutions signed 1,319 loan commitments worth $180.87 billion with 49 African governments and seven regional bodies between 2000 and 2024. The loans came from 42 Chinese lenders, including state policy banks, commercial banks and government agencies.

It is important to note that the database tracks loan commitments, not actual disbursements, repayments or defaults, which means that the figures are not the same as total debt owed.

Chinese lending to Africa accelerated sharply in the 2010s, especially after Beijing launched the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2013. In several peak years, annual commitments to Africa exceeded $10 billion, funding large-scale infrastructure projects such as railways and expressways.

More broadly, 2025 recorded the highest BRI engagement globally, with $128.4 billion in construction contracts and $85.2 billion in investments worldwide. China’s energy-related engagement alone reached $93.9 billion in 2025, more than double the level recorded in 2024, the highest since the BRI began.

Although recent lending to Africa has slowed compared to its 2016 peak, China remains deeply involved in strategic sectors.

China’s footprint in East Africa

In East Africa, Chinese loans have heavily targeted transportation and energy. Kenya has received billions for projects such as the Standard Gauge Railway, bypass highways and port-linked infrastructure.

Ethiopia has secured major financing for the Addis-Djibouti Railway, expressways and telecom expansion.

Uganda used Chinese loans to build the Kampala-Entebbe Expressway and upgrade oil-region roads.

Tanzania, Rwanda, Djibouti and Burundi have also tapped Chinese financing for roads, power projects and ICT systems.

Energy and telecom investments, especially in Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda, have been central to China’s role in the region.

Meanwhile, recent data suggest Beijing is shifting strategy. Instead of funding mega-projects, China has increasingly moved toward smaller, more commercially viable and strategic investments.

According to the World Health Organisation, one paediatrician should care for no more than 50 children with complex health needs. In Tanzania, however, access to specialised care remains limited, particularly outside major urban centres.

The country’s health professionals told The Citizen that the shortage is one reason neonatal deaths, particularly those occurring within the first 28 days of life, continue to account for a significant share of under-five mortality. While Tanzania has made notable progress in reducing maternal deaths, improvements in newborn and child survival have been slower.

“This gap explains why preventable deaths still occur,” said Prof Pascal Rugajo, Dean of the Aga Khan University (AKU) Medical College in Tanzania. He noted that as maternal mortality declines, national health priorities are increasingly shifting toward strengthening specialised care for children.

Under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, maternal mortality reportedly dropped from about 556 deaths per 100,000 live births to around 104, a milestone that earned international recognition. However, specialists caution that achieving similar gains in child health will require significantly expanding the number of trained paediatricians.

Dr Elisamia Ngowi, one of the newly graduated paediatric specialists, said the current ratio is not sustainable. “One specialist cannot adequately serve thousands of children,” he said, adding that advanced training improves early diagnosis and management of complex childhood illnesses.

The commission reminded broadcasters and the public that the Electoral Commission is the only constitutional body authorised to declare election outcomes in Uganda. Candidates who are dissatisfied with the results, it said, must challenge them in court within the legally prescribed timelines.

“Broadcast media should not serve as alternative venues for litigating election disputes,” the UCC said.

The regulator warned that airing unofficial results, parallel tallies or speculative allegations is unlawful and could create public panic, confusion and distrust in democratic institutions. It added that such broadcasts may also incite unrest and damage Uganda’s democratic reputation.

The UCC directed all broadcasters to exercise strict editorial oversight and ensure that election-related information is verified against official Electoral Commission sources. It also ordered media houses to refrain from hosting programmes that promote unsubstantiated claims about results.

The commission said it would take “decisive enforcement action” against any broadcaster that violates the law or the guidelines.

Media owners, editors and the public were urged to use broadcast platforms responsibly and in ways that promote national unity and democratic integrity.

Instead, many reportedly find themselves sent to the frontlines of the war .

Promised jobs, delivered to war

Families say communication often stops shortly after the recruits arrive in Russia. Some receive brief messages saying they are being deployed to the battlefield and will not be allowed to carry phones.

“We don’t know whether he is alive or dead,” said one Kenyan relative whose brother travelled to Russia last year after being promised a job. “He told us to pray for him.”

Investigative group All Eyes on Wagner (AEOW), which tracks mercenary activity, recently published a report listing 1,417 fighters from 35 African countries who joined the Russian army between 2023 and mid-2025. According to the report, at least 316 of them have died.

Egypt had the largest number of identified recruits, while Cameroon recorded some of the highest losses. The group estimates a mortality rate of more than 22 percent among the listed fighters, not including those wounded or missing. Ukraine has also claimed that more than 1,400 Africans from 36 countries are fighting for Russia.

Recruitment network

Reports from different African countries suggest the recruitment methods are similar. In Ghana, 14 men were allegedly lured with promises of agricultural and security jobs in 2024. Only three were known to be alive a month later.

In South Africa, several individuals were charged over the alleged recruitment of young men who were reportedly promised jobs or education opportunities but ended up in combat zones.

Some recruits sign contracts written in Russian, which they may not fully understand. Ukrainian officials have described the contracts as “equivalent to signing a death sentence." 

Experts say Russia has long relied on foreign fighters and private military networks. “If those guys die, who cares?” one international relations professor in Egypt said, suggesting foreign recruits may draw less domestic attention inside Russia.

Government warnings and rescue efforts

Several African governments have warned citizens to verify overseas job offers through official channels. Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi recently urged young people to confirm employment opportunities with the Ministries of Labour and Foreign Affairs before travelling abroad.

Kenyan authorities say they have rescued some citizens caught up in the conflict. However, families claim the number of affected individuals could be much higher than officially acknowledged.

In Egypt, authorities have tightened travel requirements for citizens heading to Russia and warned that serving in a foreign military could carry serious legal consequences at home.

Desperation and risk

Analysts say high unemployment and economic hardship across parts of Africa make young people vulnerable to such schemes. The promise of stable income in foreign currency can be powerful, especially for families struggling with rising living costs.

But once in Russia, some recruits allegedly discover they have few options. Returning home may be difficult, and leaving a military contract can carry severe penalties.

For many families, the biggest pain is the silence.

“We just want to know the truth,” said one relative. “Is he alive? Is he coming back?”

The move followed a decision by the Counter-Financing of Terrorism Inter-Ministerial Committee, which placed the individuals on Kenya’s Domestic Terrorism Sanctions List, triggering immediate asset freezes and restrictions on access to the financial system.

According to the FRC, several of those named are linked to extremist groups, including Al-Shabaab, ISIS and the Allied Democratic Forces, with roles ranging from recruiting fighters to procuring weapons and moving funds across borders. 

Authorities said some of the money was routed through countries such as Türkiye and South Africa before reaching Kenya. Banks holding the affected accounts have been ordered to submit full details of the individuals’ assets in the coming days as investigations continue.

According to the files, investigators flagged Kenya and Somalia as locations associated with paedophile activity, while Tanzania and Senegal were identified as transit points used in Epstein’s international movements. Coastal areas such as Malindi in Kenya were mentioned as places frequented by individuals connected to the network 

Several emails contained in the files suggest Epstein coordinated travel to Kenya involving young women, some described in the correspondence as “finally turning legal.” In other exchanges, associates discussed arranging “safaris” and “internships,” language that experts say can be used to mask trafficking activity.

One email from 2013 references Epstein’s communication with a Kenyan businessman who said he was attending the inauguration of then-President Uhuru Kenyatta. While the correspondence itself does not allege criminal conduct by Kenyan officials, it illustrates Epstein’s proximity to influential figures and international events.

Other messages, some written jokingly, included disturbing references to bringing children from Kenya. Investigators say such language reflects common patterns in trafficking networks, where casual wording is used to obscure exploitation.

The documents also point to Tanzania’s role as a transit hub, with Epstein’s associates visiting high-end destinations such as Mnemba Island. Children from Ethiopia , Somalia, South Sudan and Sudan were allegedly trafficked through regional ports, including Mombasa, according to investigative records cited in the files.

The released material does not accuse governments in the region of wrongdoing.

“You treat a country, or a president, or a government like a spoilt child,” Kagame said, referring to how Congo is handled in international diplomacy. “The problem didn’t start in Rwanda, we didn’t cause it,” the East African quotes.

Kagame rejected claims that Rwanda is involved in Congo for economic gain, particularly mineral exploitation.

“If we were in Congo for precious metals and minerals, we’d be 100 times richer than we are today,” he said, insisting Rwanda’s primary concern is national security .

At the centre of Rwanda’s argument is the continued presence of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), an armed group linked to the Interahamwe militia responsible for the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. Kagame said the group continues to promote genocide ideology and poses a direct threat to Rwanda.

“They keep saying, ‘We want to finish what we started,’” Kagame said, adding that the ideology has been passed down to younger generations despite many original fighters being elderly.

Rwanda has repeatedly denied backing the AFC/M23 rebel group fighting Congolese government forces in eastern Congo, despite United Nations Security Council demands that Kigali withdraw troops and stop supporting the rebels. Rwanda maintains that M23 fighters are Congolese citizens addressing unresolved political and ethnic grievances.

“They say Rwanda and Burundi are twins, but Burundi has chosen to be twins with Congo,” Kagame said. While the UN has acknowledged the security threat posed by the FDLR, Kagame said Congo and its allies,  including Burundi, face little scrutiny.

The lawyers argued that Uganda breached the Commonwealth Charter and the Harare Declaration, which commit member states to democratic governance, respect for human rights , the rule of law and free political participation.

Allegations linked to the election

The petition centres on Uganda’s January 15, 2026, general election and its aftermath. According to the lawyers, the period was marked by mass arrests of opposition supporters, the use of force against civilians, restrictions on communications and sustained pressure on opposition leaders.

Several members of Bobi Wine’s National Unity Platform (NUP) were arrested during the campaign and around election day. Many were detained at roadblocks or during raids on party offices, while others were charged with offences such as inciting violence . The party says many of those arrested were its polling agents.

There are also reports that hundreds of people were detained after the election. The Ugandan military has said the arrests were based on violations of the law and denies that they were politically motivated.

Threats against the opposition

A major concern raised in the submission is public statements made by Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, who is also President Yoweri Museveni’s son.

In posts on social media, Gen Muhoozi claimed that the army had killed supporters of Bobi Wine and said the opposition leader would be “next.” Bobi Wine has said the military invaded his home during this period and that his family was left feeling unsafe. The army has denied occupying his residence.

The lawyers further argued that such statements amount to credible threats and that the Ugandan state has a duty under both domestic and international law to protect political opponents.

President Samia attended the launch of the Global Africa Investment Summit (GAIS) and the World Governments Summit (WGS), where she said Tanzania was seeking “structured collaboration” with investors rather than one-off projects.

“What investors seek today is not only opportunity but trust in institutions, policy consistency, and governments that honour commitments,” she said in remarks shared by State House.

Tanzania is using the Dubai meetings to highlight priority sectors such as ports, industrial zones and regional trade logistics, as part of efforts to position the country as a stable destination for long-term investment.

On the sidelines of the summits, President Samia also held talks with leaders from Antigua and Barbuda and officials from the United Nations tourism agency to explore new partnerships, according to her office.

The World Governments Summit brings together global leaders, investors and policy experts to discuss governance, economic growth and innovation, with this year’s event focusing on technology, sustainability and future governments.

The diplomatic push comes as Tanzania continues to face scrutiny over its October 2025 election, which was followed by youth-led protests and a heavy security response. Official results showed President Samia winning nearly 98 percent of the vote, a figure widely questioned by opposition groups and international observers.

In recent weeks, Tanzania has stepped up diplomatic outreach, with senior officials visiting Europe and the Vatican in an effort to reassure partners and counter concerns over political stability and human rights .

The European Union is expected to decide soon whether to suspend financial support to Tanzania over reported violations during the election period.

The Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security said the fake coffee was made by mixing soybeans with artificial flavourings, grinding the blend and selling it as genuine coffee.

For Uganda , Africa’s largest coffee exporter, the discovery raises alarm because Vietnam dominates the same global Robusta market that Uganda relies on.

Why this matters for Uganda

Coffee is one of Uganda’s most important export earners. In 2025, the country exported 8.7 million bags worth $2.5 billion, a major jump from the previous year.

Ugandan exporters fear that if counterfeit Vietnamese coffee finds its way into international supply chains, especially through blended or bulk shipments, it could damage confidence in Robusta coffee.

That could push prices down, hurt demand, and create reputational risks even for legitimate producers like Uganda. Ugandan industry players say the challenge is that fake coffee becomes difficult to detect once it is ground, packaged, and distributed.

“Fake coffee products are not rare,” said Nguyen Quang Tho, a trader in Vietnam’s Dak Lak province. “They can be made from soybeans, corn, or both,” he is quoted.  Vietnam is the world’s biggest Robusta producer, exporting more than 1.6 million tonnes last year.

Tanzania is facing a sharp rise in diabetes cases, with uneven access to insulin worsening the burden on patients, especially in rural areas. Data from the National Health Information System (DHIS2) show the number of people living with diabetes climbed from 680,445 in 2021 to 863,741 in 2025, a 27 percent increase. Speaking at the International Conference on Access and Distribution of Insulin (ACCISS) in Unguja, Zanzibar, Vice President Hemed Suleiman Abdulla said equitable access to insulin remains critical. “Diabetes is a global health challenge… ensuring equitable access to life-saving insulin remains essential,” he said . More than 2.9 million Tanzanians live with diabetes, with over 10,000 relying on insulin to survive.

Samia pushes Africa-Caribbean cooperation

President Samia Suluhu Hassan has advanced Tanzania’s economic diplomacy at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, holding talks with Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne and UN Tourism leadership. Discussions focused on strengthening Africa-Caribbean ties, expanding trade, investment, aviation connectivity, tourism, and security cooperation. Prime Minister Browne praised Tanzania’s handling of recent post-election security issues, noting that the formation of an independent Commission of Inquiry reflected “commitment to accountability and constitutional order.” President Samia also highlighted ongoing reconciliation and constitutional reform efforts.  

Drone technology in agriculture

Tanzania has officially introduced drones as part of efforts to modernise agriculture and increase productivity. Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba launched the initiative in Dar es Salaam at the African Conference on Sustainable Use of Agricultural Tools. Officials said the drones can spray up to 3.5 acres in just 10 minutes and carry up to 60 litres or 60 kilograms of agricultural inputs. The drones will be operated through partnerships involving the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI), the Cashew Board and crop regulatory authorities.  

Routine US immigration raids

Tanzanian communities in the United States are increasingly living under fear as immigration enforcement operations intensify. What were once sporadic arrests have become routine daytime raids in workplaces, transport hubs and streets. Many Tanzanians have withdrawn from public life, stopped posting online, or avoided community gatherings. “I just feel like they could track me online,” said a Tanzanian resident in New York. In Minnesota, several Tanzanians have reportedly been detained and transferred to a Texas deportation camp, while others describe frequent ID checks. Community members note ICE restrictions, including the requirement for a judicial warrant to enter private homes.

Uganda secures $6.3m meteorological upgrade

Uganda has secured a $6.3 million UN-backed grant to modernise its weather infrastructure through the Systematic Observation Financing Facility (SOFF). The project will improve forecasting, expand compliance with global observation standards, and strengthen nowcasting capacity for extreme weather alerts. Officials said shifting rainfall patterns and rising temperatures underscore the urgency of stronger climate resilience across the region.

A government source said the decision was taken with immediate effect and warned that the two should not return to Uganda. “Smith and Amsterdam have proven themselves to be enemies of Uganda through destructive activism,” one senior official told local media.

Allegations of political interference

Authorities accuse the pair of moving beyond advocacy into direct political action against the Ugandan state. Officials claim they have promoted narratives aimed at delegitimising government institutions and inciting unrest, including by amplifying messages from groups considered subversive under Ugandan law.

The government also alleges the two have distributed what it calls defamatory and negative content about Uganda through foreign media and international platforms. “These are coordinated media offensives meant to tarnish Uganda’s image globally,” A source told Chimpreports news.

Ugandan security officials further accuse Smith and Amsterdam of lobbying foreign governments and international financial institutions to block development funding to Uganda. Authorities say such efforts amount to economic sabotage designed to weaken investor confidence and harm the country’s growth prospects.  

Sanctions and ICC lobbying  

The government also claims the two foreigners have supported calls for sanctions against Ugandan officials and pushed for international investigations, including potential referrals to the International Criminal Court (ICC).

“Seeking sanctions and international prosecutions against serving Ugandan officials is not neutral legal work,” an official is quoted.

The accusations follow a dossier circulated internationally by Amsterdam’s law firm, which called for punitive action against Uganda over alleged post-election repression.

Uber launched in Tanzania in June 2016, starting in Dar es Salaam as part of its broader expansion across Africa. The app quickly gained popularity for introducing digital ride-hailing, competitive pricing and cashless payment options.

But Uber’s experience in Tanzania has been marked by regulatory and market challenges.

In April 2022, the company suspended operations after the government introduced new rules, including caps on fares and limits on commissions charged to drivers. Uber said at the time that the regulations created an environment that was difficult for its business model.

“Current regulations… have been a challenge to our business ,” the company told users, adding that it hoped to reach an agreement with authorities.

Uber resumed services in early 2023 after adjusting its operations, but it continued to face pressure from ongoing regulation and growing competition from local and regional ride-hailing platforms.

The company’s full exit in 2026 highlights the difficulties international tech firms can face in markets with tight transport controls and rapidly evolving competition.

The company still operates in about 80 countries worldwide, including 11 in Africa.

This week, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s office said the government will invite opposition leaders under the Somalia Future Council (SFC) to a national conference in Mogadishu starting February 1 to discuss disputes over constitutional amendments and the election model.

“The conference… is intended to strengthen national unity and social cohesion,” the government said.

The opposition signalled it would attend, raising hopes that dialogue could prevent a political breakdown.

Somalia has long used an indirect, clan-based voting system, but the government has pushed for one-person-one-vote elections. A trial run of local polls in Mogadishu in December went well, but doubts remain about whether universal suffrage can be implemented nationwide amid insecurity and weak institutions.

Lawmakers exchanged blows in parliament this week during heated arguments over constitutional changes, prompting condemnation from former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed.

“Any attempt to further alter the Provisional Constitution that generates violence is a sign of bad intention,” he warned.

International partners, including the UN, UK and EU have welcomed the planned conference, calling it a positive step toward easing tensions.

Wine, a pop-star-turned-politician, rejected the outcome, alleging fraud and accusing security forces of harassment and intimidation.

Muhoozi’s accusations

In a series of posts on X, Gen. Muhoozi claimed Ugandan troops were actively hunting Wine “dead or alive,” and alleged that Wine’s escape from his home in Magere during a night raid was coordinated with the “current administration at the US Embassy.”

“We, as UPDF, suspend ALL cooperation with the current administration at the US Embassy in Kampala,” Muhoozi wrote, adding that this could include Uganda’s military cooperation with the United States in Somalia.

Muhoozi later deleted some of the posts and apologised, but the remarks raised concerns about the future of Uganda - US security ties.

Contradictions within government

Muhoozi’s comments came just hours after Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja told local broadcaster NTV Uganda that Wine was not being pursued by the state. “Everyone is wondering why he chose to leave. He is not wanted by the government,” she said.

Other government officials have made similar statements, creating confusion over whether Wine is formally under arrest or being targeted by security forces.

Raid on Wine’s family home

Wine has said troops broke into his residence overnight, assaulted staff and choked his wife, Barbara Kyagulanyi, forcing her to seek medical attention.

Muhoozi posted a photo claiming soldiers had “captured and then released” Wine’s wife during the raid, describing her as “helpful” in locating her husband.

Kombo also delivered a special message from President Samia Suluhu Hassan, emphasising the role of the Catholic Church in helping Tanzania maintain stability during sensitive political periods.

“Your teachings have consistently reminded the world that peace is not merely the absence of violence, but the presence of justice, compassion, and care for one another,” Kombo told the Pope.

He described the Church as a vital moral presence in Tanzanian society , saying its voice is most important when it brings people together and rises above division. “The Church’s voice has long offered comfort in moments of uncertainty and clarity in moments of reflection,” Kombo said.

The minister asked Pope Leo XIV to continue encouraging unity and dialogue in Tanzania, adding that such guidance “carries deep meaning” for citizens and strengthens the Church’s role as a source of peace .

Kombo also requested prayers for Tanzania’s stability, a request the Pope welcomed. The Pontiff noted his personal connection to the country, having previously lived in Morogoro, Ruvuma, Arusha and Dar es Salaam, and assured the minister that he would pray for peace. During those discussions, the Holy See formally asked Tanzania to open an embassy at the Vatican. Tanzania is currently represented through its embassy in Germany.

Together, these two projects are set to reshape how Africa connects within itself — and with the rest of the world.

Ethiopia’s Bishoftu is a mega hub in the making

Construction has officially begun on Bishoftu International Airport, a project aimed at addressing a significant issue: Addis Ababa Bole International Airport is expected to reach its capacity limit within two to three years.

Instead of trying to squeeze more out of an airport nearing its operational ceiling, Ethiopia is building a whole new one.

Bishoftu is being developed about 40–45 km southeast of Addis Ababa, and it’s not just an airport — it’s a full-blown $12.5 billion) “Airport City” project and everything about it is huge.

A scale Africa hasn’t seen before

The biggest headline is capacity. Bishoftu is designed to handle 110 million passengers annually, which is far beyond what any airport on the continent currently manages.

To put that in perspective, Africa’s busiest airport right now is O.R. Tambo International Airport in South Africa , and it handles over 20 million passengers. Bishoftu’s planned capacity completely changes the scale of what “Africa’s biggest airport” even means.

Built like a global transit powerhouse

The infrastructure is equally ambitious. The plan includes:

That aircraft parking capacity is more than quadruple what the existing Bole hub can handle.

The development includes a 38 km high-speed railway that will connect Bishoftu to Addis Ababa in just 25 minutes — a big deal for an airport located outside the capital.

Rwanda’s Bugesera is smaller, but very strategic

While Ethiopia is going for a continent-changing mega hub, Rwanda’s approach is different: high-standard growth with a clear strategic focus.

Rwanda is developing Bugesera International Airport , valued at about $2 billion, through a partnership between the Government of Rwanda and Qatar Airways, which holds a 60% stake.

That partnership signals just how seriously Rwanda is treating this project — not only as national infrastructure, but as a major aviation investment.

Built to grow in phases

Bugesera is being developed with a step-by-step plan:

It’s not trying to be the biggest in the world — but it’s clearly being built to scale up over time.

Designed to strengthen Rwanda’s regional role

Bugesera is also tied directly to Rwanda’s aviation ambitions.

The airport is expected to boost RwandAir, Rwanda’s state carrier, supporting its expansion into new markets — including the USA and various African nations.

In other words, the airport isn’t just a new building. It’s meant to help Rwanda compete harder in international aviation.

Africa’s aviation hierarchy

Currently, the largest airports in Africa are led by O.R. Tambo (South Africa), Cairo International (Egypt), with roughly 17 million passengers, and Addis Ababa Bole (Ethiopia) with approximately 12 to 25 million passengers.

The new projects in Ethiopia and Rwanda will stand out by significantly raising the ceiling for African aviation.