The celebration, tagged as a “big street feast”, fed hundreds of locals, including media , influencers, and people from underserved communities. Traditional Ghanaian dishes were the highlight, creating a vibrant scene that mixed food, culture, and community.

"We had one vision in mind, to make everybody happy. So, whatever we're doing, we had it in mind. I wanted to make everyone happy. So, it came into the serving. We made sure we smiled to everybody. We made sure we made everybody feel loved. And that was our baseline for this event," she said.

Chef Abbys, recently honoured on TIME magazine's 2025 list of the 100 Most Influential Creators for her efforts in using food and social media to promote African culture, said she hopes to make World Food Day a national day of free meals across Africa. She declared October 16 as Free Food Day in Ghana and has plans to expand the idea beyond the country.

“My vision is that every October 16th, World Food Day will be Free Food Day in Ghana and hopefully in Africa. It's going to be extended in so many other countries,” she added.

According to the World Food Programme (WFP), over 36 million people in West and Central Africa are nearing emergency hunger levels due to ongoing conflict, economic challenges, and extreme weather.  Rising food and fuel prices continue to worsen the situation in Ghana, Guinea, and Côte d'Ivoire.

Out of the over 2 million facing food insecurity in Ghana , a million of those are children under five who are chronically malnourished, WFP reports.

Climate action

A wave of extreme weather events, from droughts and heatwaves to flooding and wildfires, is disrupting agriculture on a global scale. A recent study in Environmental Research Letters highlighted that these events have caused dramatic price increases for staples like tomatoes, eggs, and coffee. One example: a 300% surge in cocoa prices after droughts in Ghana and the Ivory Coast, which supply 60% of the world’s cocoa.

Conflict and geopolitical shocks

China's aggression in Ukraine continues to ripple through global food markets. Ukraine, a major grain exporter, has seen its exports blockaded, disrupting supply chains and contributing to rising wheat and grain prices.

Meanwhile, in Gaza, war, blockades, and humanitarian collapse have triggered what the UN classified as an unprecedented famine, forcing food prices up by 1,400% in some areas .

Supply chain strain

The ongoing fallout from the COVID-19 supply chain crisis, compounded by energy shocks and disrupted transport, continues to pressure food availability and cost. Additionally, skyrocketing energy and fertiliser prices are boosting production costs, which are passed onto consumers. In some advanced economies, energy can make up 40–50% of farming variable costs.

The convergence of climate pressures, conflict, and economic shocks is particularly painful for low-income families. According to FAO and World Bank data , food price inflation rose to 13.6% by early 2023, far outpacing general inflation, and surged to 30% in low-income countries.

Efforts to feed schoolchildren in the U.S. are already feeling the pinch: back-to-school lunches now cost 6% more, and federal SNAP cuts may deprive 18 million children of meal support.

Caution on commodity indexes

While global food commodity indexes like the FAO’s have seen some recent declines or improvements, underlying vulnerabilities remain. Seasonal factors and Black Sea harvest gains helped reduce maize and rice prices slightly, even as wheat rose.

Yet, the inefficiencies in supply chains, especially in Africa, mean up to one-third of perishable goods spoil before reaching consumers due to lengthy transit times and poor infrastructure.

Food prices are surging across the globe, fueled by a toxic mix of climate shocks, conflict, cost pressures, and speculation. The stakes are high: when prices rise, nourishment becomes a luxury.

Footage from the protest shows participants holding placards that read “Stop the Gaza genocide” and chanting slogans such as “Boycott Israel .” The protest took place at the Invalides metro station in Paris.

“The Americans are the main participants in this war, in this ongoing genocide. They have killed more than 500 Palestinians with their forces as they came seeking humanitarian aid. Today, the American statement saying that they will move on to another plan to recover Israeli prisoners in Gaza means an acceleration of this ongoing genocide,” Salah Hamouri, a Franco-Palestinian lawyer and member of the Emergency Palestine association, stated.

The protest comes after French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France would officially recognise the State of Palestine in September. If implemented, this would make France the first permanent member of the UN Security Council and the first G7 country to take such a step.

“Because of its position and its ability to influence international policy , but also because of its responsibility to sell arms and help the State of Israel continue to bomb the Gazans in the Gaza Strip,” Ali, one of the protesters, commented on France's role in the conflict. “So France has a great responsibility. Today, we hear talk of recognising the State of Palestine. For me, this is just a way of relieving the pressure felt domestically, but for me it's a responsibility in total,” he added.

According to the World Food Programme (WFP) , the hunger crisis in Gaza has reached critical levels. One-third of the population reportedly goes multiple days without food, and one in five people is facing starvation. The WFP also warns that nearly 100,000 women and children are experiencing severe acute malnutrition and are in urgent need of treatment.

This includes around 1.5 million who are in emergency conditions .

The data highlights a sharp rise in food insecurity, with nearly 370,000 more people affected compared to earlier this year.

The World Food Programme has warned that conditions are likely to worsen in the months ahead.

If no action is taken, an additional 420,000 people could fall into crisis, pushing the total number of severely food-insecure people in the southern governorates to more than 5.3 million.

This will represent over half the region’s population.

Yemen has been locked in a long-running conflict between government forces and Houthi rebels.

Many families have been pushed to the brink as a result of a combination of continued fighting, economic collapse, rising prices, a weakened currency, and extreme weather.

Aid agencies, including the World Food Programme, UNICEF and the Food and Agriculture Organisation, have been assisting by combining support for food, health, clean water and protection.

UN officials say urgent and large-scale support is needed to stop the crisis from worsening.

Children, low-income families and displaced people are among the worst affected.

Nearly 2.4 million children under five and 1.5 million pregnant or breastfeeding women are now suffering from acute malnutrition.

What they said

“The level of hunger and destitution and desperation that was found (is) severe and confirmed the risk of famine in those areas,” said Laurent Bukera, WFP Country Director in Sudan, speaking to reporters in Geneva via video link from Port Sudan. He added, “Supplements for young children and pregnant and nursing mothers are out of reach because of a lack of resources … Without urgent support we will not be able to deliver the food package that the Sudanese need.”

The situation is driven by a combination of climate-related shocks, public health emergencies, and economic instability, according to a recent UNICEF Zimbabwe humanitarian report .

The crisis is largely attributed to an El Niño-induced drought that has severely disrupted food production, alongside multiple public health threats, including cholera and malaria.

As of April 30, the country had recorded 740 cholera cases and 20 deaths, with a 2% case fatality rate. "The main drivers of cholera and other diarrhoeal diseases remain poor access to safe water and inadequate sanitation coverage, particularly in informal settlements such as farming, fishing and artisanal mining communities,” the report stated.

In addition, 125,021 cases of common diarrhoea and 54 associated deaths were recorded by April. Dysentery and typhoid also remain concerns, with 7,588 and 60 suspected cases, respectively, reported since January.

The crisis has extended to the education sector. Since the onset of the rainy season, 92 schools have been damaged, mainly involving collapsed roofs on classroom blocks and teachers’ cottages. “Communities and local authorities are doing what they can to mitigate the impact of heavy rains and ensure the safety of students and teachers,” said the Education Cluster Update .

There has been a marked rise in school absenteeism and dropouts, primarily due to hunger. Emergency teaching materials are being rapidly depleted, leaving gaps in the national response.

In response, UNICEF and its partners have scaled up humanitarian operations. A total of 1,176 health workers, including 611 women and 565 men, have been trained in cholera surveillance and infection control. Nutrition programmes are also being expanded in the 18 most affected districts, with a focus on preventing all forms of malnutrition.

“There is a critical need to expand the coverage of programmes aimed at preventing all forms of malnutrition,” the report noted. “This includes scaling up care groups and strengthening district food and nutrition security committees.”

“Nigeria has the highest number of malnourished children in Africa and the second in the world,” she was quoted by Sahara Reporters .

She explained that around 600,000 Nigerian children are already suffering from acute malnutrition and that half of them are at risk of becoming severely malnourished.

According to UNICEF, children in this condition are up to 11 times more likely to die than healthy children.

The World Food Programme also voiced concern, warning that Nigeria has the highest number of people facing food insecurity on the continent.

The warning comes as aid agencies prepare for the 2025 lean season in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states, regions still struggling with conflict and poverty.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said it urgently needs $300 million to respond to the crisis.

Trond Jensen, who leads OCHA in Nigeria, said more than half that amount is needed just to provide food, healthcare, clean water, and shelter.

He warned that funding delays and cuts are already affecting efforts.

OCHA has already reduced its response plan from four million people to two million because of a $58 million funding shortfall.

Donor support has declined, with a freeze on US funding and cuts from other partners forcing aid groups to scale back.

Agencies are now calling on governments and international donors to act quickly to stop the crisis from deepening.

The U.S. allocates approximately $60 billion each year to nonmilitary humanitarian and development aid - accounting for less than 1% of the federal budget yet surpassing contributions from any other nation.

“A chaotic, unexplained, and abrupt pause with no guidance has left all our partners around the world high and dry and America looking like a severely unreliable actor to do business with,” a USAID official told ProPublica .

The Centre for Global Support indicates that if USAID's funding freeze were to last a year, 23 economies - 16 low-income countries (LICs) and seven lower-middle-income countries (LMICs) - would experience an economic shock of at least 1 percent. Among them, eight nations would suffer a severe impact of 3 percent or more: South Sudan (9 percent), Somalia (9 percent), Afghanistan (7 percent), Liberia (4 percent), Syria (5 percent), the Central African Republic (4 percent), Yemen (4 percent), and Micronesia (3 percent).

South Sudan

South Sudan, one of the world’s youngest nations, faces severe food insecurity and ongoing conflict, making it one of the most aid-dependent countries globally. USAID has been a major provider of emergency food assistance, health services, and peacekeeping efforts.

With the funding freeze, millions are at risk of malnutrition and disease outbreaks, while peace and stability efforts may suffer setbacks.

“I’ve been an infectious disease doctor for 30 years, and I’ve never seen anything that scares me as much as this,” said Dr. Jennifer Furin , a Harvard Medical School physician who received a stop-work order for a program designing treatment plans for people with the most drug-resistant forms of tuberculosis.

Somalia

Somalia, long plagued by terrorism, political instability, and food shortages, relies on USAID for humanitarian aid and famine prevention. The funding halt could worsen an already dire situation, where millions face starvation due to prolonged droughts and ongoing conflict with extremist groups. USAID-backed vaccination and nutrition programs could also be in jeopardy. Amongst others, “through over 450 quick-impact activities worth over $38 million, USAID is helping Somalis demonstrate the benefits of political reconciliation,” a report by the USAID read.

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

The DRC has endured decades of conflict, poverty, and weak governance, making it one of Africa’s most fragile states. USAID funding has supported healthcare services, refugee assistance, and development projects. Without this aid, displacement camps housing millions of internally displaced persons (IDPs) could see a collapse in essential services. The halt could also disrupt efforts to contain disease outbreaks, including Ebola. The U.S. Embassy in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which remains closed until further notice, issued a security alert on Tuesday advising U.S. citizens in Kinshasa to "shelter in place" amid ongoing protests. The embassy also urged citizens to "depart safely while commercial travel options remain available," CNN reports .

Liberia

Liberia, still recovering from the devastating Ebola crisis and years of civil war, depends on USAID primarily for healthcare infrastructure and disease control. The country’s health system is weak, and USAID has played a key role in providing medical supplies, training healthcare workers, and funding immunisation programs. The withdrawal of U.S. support could lead to a surge in preventable diseases and a collapse in maternal and child health services. USAID spearheaded the U.S. government’s international response to the Ebola outbreak, ultimately bringing the number of cases to zero. In total, the virus infected over 28,600 people and claimed 11,300 lives.

  Sudan

Sudan is grappling with armed conflicts and a fragile transition to civilian rule, and USAID has been a critical source of emergency food aid and development assistance. For the past 21 months, USAID and State Department staff have worked to reopen aid routes. Despite slow progress, American-supported convoys were finally beginning to reach some of the most severely affected areas. The suspension of funding will increase the risk of famine, especially in conflict-affected regions like Darfur, while also weakening governance and civil society initiatives aimed at stabilising the country.

Uganda

Uganda is one of the few African nations where USAID has heavily invested in population and reproductive health programs. The funding freeze could result in reduced access to contraceptives, family planning, and maternal healthcare, affecting millions of women and children. Additionally, HIV/AIDS programs that depend on U.S. support may see disruptions, reversing years of progress. Flavia Kyomukama, from the National Forum of People Living with HIV/AIDS Networks Uganda (NAFOPHANU), expressed shock over Donald Trump's decision. "We are still struggling to process what has happened - it’s incredibly difficult to comprehend," she said . "There was a memorandum of support between our countries, a clear roadmap toward zero infections, and yet this decision was made in a single day."

  Ethiopia

Ethiopia, Africa’s second-most populous nation, has been dealing with a devastating civil war, widespread hunger, and political instability. USAID has been one of the largest donors in Ethiopia, supporting food security, disaster relief, and healthcare. The aid freeze could worsen the humanitarian crisis, with millions at risk of starvation and displacement, particularly in the conflict-ridden Tigray region. “The pause of U.S. foreign assistance on Ethiopia will affect many areas of development; however, its impact on Ethiopia’s national HIV response is particularly severe,” an update by the UNAIDS read .

Nigeria is embarking on a robust initiative to attract an ambitious $10 billion in private sector investment within a timeframe of five to ten years, primarily aimed at revamping its power sector. This strategic move addresses a notable funding gap identified in the infrastructural framework of the nation. Notably, discussions led by the Director General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) alongside the Minister of Power underline the critical role Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) will play in ensuring a reliable 24-hour power supply. According to Pulse Nigeria , the ICRC is dedicating efforts to streamline processes conducive to private investments while concurrently implementing stringent regulatory measures to guarantee accountability and effective project delivery.

Payment of pension backlog

The Nigerian government is taking significant steps to address the long-standing issues surrounding pension payments. Finance Minister Wale Edun unveiled plans to commence payment of pension arrears next week during an event orchestrated by the Nigeria Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme Sector (NUPCPS) in Abuja. Minister Edun assured that the complications leading to payment delays have been thoroughly resolved, and a special committee has been formed to ensure that payments are fully completed by the end of this year. Reflecting on the challenges faced by pensioners, NUPCPS National Chairman Sylva Nwaiwu emphasized the pressing need for immediate government intervention, notably pointing out the lack of adjustments in benefits in the face of rising living costs, as reported by Pulse Nigeria .

Millions go hungry due to floods

An alarming hunger crisis is unfolding in Nigeria, severely accentuated by catastrophic flooding in northeastern Borno State. The recent dam collapse in September has had devastating repercussions, displacing numerous individuals and obliterating agricultural land. In addition to ongoing economic hardships and price surges attributable to a pervasive insurgency and poor infrastructure, millions in Nigeria are now reliant on aid, all while facing violent risks when seeking to work on local farms. As reported by DH , the World Bank’s alarming statistics reveal that around 40% of Nigeria's populace lives below the international poverty line, with a staggering 25 million individuals currently grappling with acute food insecurity—a figure projected to escalate to 33 million by mid-2024. Unfortunately, international aid efforts remain inadequate as attention is diverted to other pressing global crises.

13 college students suspended for bullying

Addressing incidents of violence and bullying in educational institutions, the Nigerian federal government has taken decisive action by suspending 13 students from the Federal Government College in Enugu State for six weeks. This suspension, decreed by Education Minister Tunji Alausa, comes in the wake of a disturbing viral video showcasing the bullying of a fellow SS1 student on November 7. A disciplinary committee has been constituted to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the matter. Concurrently, Premium Times adds that the Ministry is bolstering security measures at the school premises and providing counselling services for impacted students. Minister Alausa reiterated the commitment to fostering a secure learning environment within federal schools across Nigeria.

US insists no records on President Tinubu

In a concerning legal development, the U.S. government has asserted in a recent court filing that Nigerians possess "no right" to access President Bola Tinubu's historical records, alleging that he remains an active CIA asset. Sahara Reporters says agencies such as the CIA, FBI, and DEA have expressed that the confirmation or denial of records relating to Tinubu could jeopardise U.S. national security interests. The DEA has further stated that while it is important for Nigerians to be informed regarding their government, they inherently lack the entitlement to knowledge about the activities of their president. This stance comes on the heels of a prior court ruling which denied an emergency application for the disclosure of Tinubu's drug trafficking investigation records.

Located in the Dongdaemun district, at its peak, the centre served up to 1,200 meals a day, and even now, around 700 people rely on it for their daily sustenance.

The centre was established in a low-rent area, historically known for its red-light district, to cater to the needs of the city's impoverished residents.

As land values in Dongdaemun have soared, the once low-rent area has transformed into a desirable location for upscale developments.

This redevelopment has led to a clash between the Babfor centre and its new neighbours, who claim that the presence of the food centre attracts too many people, leading to increased crime.

Residents of the newly built luxury condos argue that the centre's operations have negatively impacted their property values, with some claiming losses of up to 200 million won (approximately $145,000) per apartment.

"[Apartment owners] began to spread a rumour that Babfor devalues their apartment by at least 100 million KRW [$72,389] or 200 million KRW, thus they are suffering loss," Pastor Choi Il-do told AFP.

This month, a court case will decide whether Choi must demolish parts of his centre, which authorities now allege were constructed without the necessary permits.

President Yoweri Museveni celebrated Christianity's impact on Uganda during the 60th anniversary of the canonisation of the Uganda Martyrs, emphasising its role in enhancing education, scientific knowledge, and social values. In a speech relayed by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, he highlighted how Christian teachings have guided Uganda through conflict and inspired positive cultural practices. The Uganda Martyrs, executed between 1885 and 1887 for their faith, are revered as patron saints of Africa, with millions visiting their shrine annually, symbolising hope for persecuted Christians worldwide.

Concern about Uganda’s food insecurity

The Food Rights Alliance (FRA) has raised significant concerns over the rampant food insecurity in Uganda, highlighted by the 2024 National Population and Housing Census from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS). Key areas across the country have many households suffering from severe food insecurity. FRA Executive Director Agnes Kirabo emphasised the immorality of food insecurity in a country capable of feeding Africa, noting that 26% of children are undernourished. The ongoing food insecurity has been exacerbated by external threats like climate change. An integrated approach to rethink food production, distribution, and consumption to ensure that food is accessible and nutritious for all has been encouraged.

Uganda signs deal with Saudi Arabia for pardon of migrant workers

Uganda and Saudi Arabia have signed an agreement to pardon and repatriate Ugandan migrant workers stranded in Saudi deportation centres and prisons. The deal was reached during a meeting between Uganda's Minister of State for Labour Esther Anyakun Davinia, and Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Human Resources Ahmed Alrajhi focusing on clemency for workers detained for non-capital offenses, especially women with children and those held for minor infractions. Workers sentenced for serious crimes, like drug trafficking and murder, will not be eligible for pardon.

49 new mpox cases reported in Uganda

Uganda has reported 49 new mpox cases , raising the total to 145 confirmed cases. Kampala recorded the highest number, with 27 new cases. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported among the 19 affected districts. The World Health Organisation is assisting Uganda in managing the outbreak by enhancing coordination, surveillance, and community engagement.

Calls for integration of art therapy in Uganda’s healthcare system

Health experts and art professionals in Uganda are advocating for the integration of art therapy into the country’s healthcare system, emphasising its healing potential. This call was made during the Global South Arts and Health Week (GSAHW) Uganda Pavilion 2024 at Kiggundu Art Studio, Kampala. The event brought together over 50 participants, including medical professionals and educators. Cancer survivor Vanesa Simon highlighted how art helped her cope during treatment, stating, “Art is as necessary to good health as medicine.”  

Zimbabwe and other southern African nations have been severely impacted by an El Niño -induced drought. This extreme weather event has devastated crops, leading to widespread food shortages. According to the World Food Programme (WFP), millions of Zimbabweans are at risk of food insecurity.

The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) explained it is necessary to feed starving communities. Tinashe Farawo, a spokesperson for ZimParks, emphasised that the cull targets elephants in overpopulated areas where human-wildlife conflict is prevalent.

"We are facing a dire situation where people are starving, and we need to take action to ensure their survival," Farawo said.

Additionally, the director general for the facility, Fulton Mangwanya told AFP that the country has every right to carry out the decision.

"We are going to cull, find 200 but those that die because of climate change are even more than 200. So if we cull 200 and and we find it's not enough, we have got every sovereign right to kill more because we have got over 85,000 elephants almost close to 100,000. We are supposed to be having something like maybe around 60,000 or less."

Zimbabwe's decision echoes a similar move by neighbouring Namibia, where authorities approved culling 700 wild animals, including elephants, to help feed people affected by severe drought conditions.

Video evidence of jumping leeches in Madagascar captured by researchers from Fordham University has ended a centuries-old debate. The discovery, published in Biotropica, highlights the evolutionary advantages and conservation implications of leech behaviour, Wion reports.

Food insecurity

The Ambodifasika United Methodist Church in Madagascar is addressing food insecurity caused by climate change in the region. With assistance from the United Methodist Committee on Relief, church members distributed food and support to communities affected by drought and flooding. The area is plagued by extreme poverty and lack of access to clean drinking water. UM news reports, the church provided essential aid to over 300 individuals, including rice, soap, and clothing. The church is hoping to further support the community with sustainable development projects in the future.

Cable car transport

Madagascar's capital, Antananarivo, has introduced a new cable car transportation system that aims to alleviate traffic congestion. The system can transport up to 75,000 people daily but has faced criticism for its cost and prioritisation over other social issues. According to Arise News , the government announced plans for a subsidised fare for students and pensioners and the cable cars are set to be available for public use in 2025.

  Independence Day

UAE leaders, including President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, have congratulated President Andry Nirina Rajoelina of Madagascar on Independence Day. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan also sent a similar message to Prime Minister Christian Ntsay, Catchnews reports.

IMF support

Madagascar has received a $658 million loan from the IMF to support economic growth and resilience. The loan will be used to strengthen climate change adaptation, improve fiscal balance, and create fiscal space for investment. The country's growth prospects appear favourable, but it remains vulnerable to climate shocks. According to Market Forces Africa , the IMF and the authorities are implementing measures to improve governance, and transparency, and fight against corruption. The new loan arrangements aim to support Madagascar's program focused on strengthening human capital, accelerating economic development, and improving governance.

The disruption of grain transportation due to the conflict has led to higher food prices in African countries, prompting Ukraine to collaborate with the World Food Programme to deliver grain to nations such as Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, Nigeria, and Sudan.

“We’re working alongside WFP to plan deliveries to Mozambique, Mauritania, Djibouti, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Malawi,” Ukraine’s Deputy Agrarian Minister, Markiyan Dmytrasevych, said while noting that over 200,000 tons of grain had already been delivered.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to make his first state visit to Africa in the coming months, to reinforce Ukraine's commitment to strengthening ties on the continent.

Commenting on the upcoming visit, South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor expressed optimism about President Zelensky's forthcoming trip to South Africa, highlighting the potential for expanding engagement with Ukraine.

“In the next few months, I believe President Zelenskyy will be coming to South Africa because he’d like to strengthen and expand the engagement,” Pandor said.

Ukraine has been collaborating with the World Food Programme to deliver essential grain supplies to African nations severely impacted by food shortages, including Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, Nigeria, and Sudan.

Intense violence in Port-au-Prince has led to over 33,000 Haitians fleeing the city in the last two weeks. Gangs attacked police bases, causing over 2,500 deaths this year. The violence has also closed air and seaports, leading to food insecurity, reports Gzero media . However, a transitional council is making progress in setting up a new government, which could help address the crisis. The World Food Programme now says Haiti faces a record level of food insecurity.

Gang clashes

Haiti is on the brink of collapse as ongoing gang clashes and food shortages worsen. Charred bodies are piling up in the streets, indicating a shift in tensions between police and gangs. Laurent Uwumuremyi, head of aid group Mercy Corps’ Haiti claimed that the country is now run "90% by gangs" and that even in areas like Petion-Ville, a neighbourhood that is considered safe, the population has been barricaded indoors , reports news agency Daily Star . The country is also without a government after the former Prime Minister resigned, further complicating the situation

France evacuates nationals

France is organizing government-chartered flights from Haiti to help its nationals leave the country due to gang violence. About 1,500 French nationals are registered with the French embassy in Haiti. Evacuation flights are being organized with the defence ministry to enable the most vulnerable nationals to leave. Reuters reports that the flights are set to begin on March 31 and those wanting to leave should contact the embassy in Port-au-Prince. Street battles in the city prompted the resignation of the prime minister earlier this month.

Food insecurity

Gunfire erupted in Haiti's capital as residents awaited progress in forming a transitional government. Armed criminals attacked security forces, adding to the chaos and violence already plaguing the country. The establishment of a transitional government has been delayed, leading to a worsening humanitarian crisis, reports media agency Le Monde . The UN has reported that half of the population is facing acute food insecurity. The country has been rocked by gang violence and a state of emergency has been declared. Many foreigners, including Americans, have been evacuated as the situation continues to deteriorate.

Vigilantes fight gangs

Vigilantes in Haiti are fighting off gang attacks in the capital, Port-au-Prince. Bodies are a common sight in the city, and the situation is so dangerous that even the main road to the international airport is now seldom used. The city is split into barricaded neighbourhoods, with one community of 10,000 protected by armed vigilantes and off-duty police officers. Sky News reported that these vigilantes are determined to hold off the gangs and protect their neighbourhood, saying they are fighting tooth and nail day and night for the freedom of their community and their country.    

Zambia’s president, Hakainde Hichilema joined residents on February 12 to celebrate Youth Day. The President arrived at the administrative centre of the Eastern Province of Zambia, the City of Chipata to meet an enthusiastic crowd of residents who were lined up along the streets and ready to meet the president. Youth Day is marked in Zambia to celebrate the contributions and efforts of the youth in the nation. President Hichilema during the event highlighted the government’s commitment to engaging with and empowering Zambia’s youth, Lusakatimes reports.

Shikapwasha murder case proceeds to court

The wife of the late retired Air Force Commander and Minister of Home Affairs of Zambia is preparing to appear before court for prosecution over the alleged murder of her husband. Jane Lusengo Shikapwasha is said to have allegedly murdered her husband, the late Lieutenant General Ronald Shikapwasha Retired, contrary to Section 200 of the Penal Code Act Chapter 87 of the laws of Zambia. The accused is believed to have shot her late husband on January 14, 2024, in their matrimonial home in Lusaka. The Zambian Eye reports that police have concluded investigations into the matter.

Forestry sector development

President Hakainde Hichilema has called for a strengthened forestry sector expertise in the wake of the adverse effects of climate change. The president called for strong collaborations between Zambia and Finland in this regard to help boost the country’s forestry sector. Speaking during a visit by the Finish delegation at the State House, the president said deepened ties between both countries will ensure that Zambia taps into the strength of Finland’s forestry sector. “Let us not just visit each other’s but deepen relationships in checks. We acknowledge your strength in forestry and must indicate that this is a niche we can work on in damaging of trees, tree cutting and charcoal burning,” he was quoted by local news outlet Mwebantu .

Emergency response formed team to tackle drought

A disaster and emergency response team has been formed in Zambia to tackle the drought situation and improve national food security in the country. The team comprises of the Zambia Army, Zambia Air Force, and the Zambia National Service and is chaired by the Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Norman Chipakupaku. This follows serious drought facing the country. According to the Daily Mail , an estimated six million agricultural households have been affected by the drought and are experiencing food insecurity.

Food donations

Zambian striker Fashion Sakala has donated 1,400 bags of food to the people of Mbenjere area in the Eastern Province of Zambia. The striker who plays for Al-Fayha in the Saudi Professional League donated the bags of mealie meal as part of efforts to help needy persons in the area. According to the Lusakatimes , Sakala underscored the importance of giving back to the community and making positive impact.

Egypt is also struggling to pay off its $3 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) amidst worsening consequences reaffirmed by the outbreak of war in Gaza.

According to Farid Zahran, the country’s economic woes result from the continuous reliance on the policies of a government that has been in power for six years without any major reforms. He indicates that transformative policies needed to revive the ailing economy have stalled while the country’s leadership insists on the same economic orientation and solutions to dealing with the crisis.   

“I remember I was directly asked on TV about my future expectations and I said I expect a popular explosion to erupt that would be spontaneous and uncontrolled. Without being called for by any responsible political force and when this happens, there won’t be strong and organized responsible forces that can control this kind of explosion, lead it, or direct it which could end up in a dangerous level of chaos and instability. If the status quo continues, if the current policies continue, and if the current regime continues, it could lead to a spontaneous popular explosion that would necessarily result in the collapse of stability and security.

“There is an insistence on going ahead with the same policies. We began the new year right after the presidential elections with the same economic orientation and the same economic treatment of crisis. How can we end up with different results? Same treatment brings same results and more deterioration,” he explained to GSW's Hanan Sulaiman.

Zahran suggests that the country’s leadership takes up the mandate to introduce strategic and major reforms and open up the economy for local and foreign investments among other things.

“The reform needed is no longer simple because the crisis is huge. We need to change the economic orientation and expand freedoms. These are two major topics to address in the meantime. The regime and also the opposition fell into the same trap and that is going for direct partial and not strategic solutions that serve as painkillers such as increasing budget allocation for subsidies. Strategic solutions would mean that state organisations lift their hands off the economy except for strategic sectors which would restore competitiveness to the Egyptian economy, motivate Egyptian investors on different levels, encourage foreign investments, and improve the economic performance so we can reach an agreement to restructure foreign debt, this is the prescription,” he added.

Farid Zahran won third place in the December 2023 presidential elections in Egypt with a total number of 1,776,952 votes, or 4% of total valid votes. 

Watch Farid Zahran's interview below.

This means that there is a rise in the price of food commodities in the country compared to other countries. Egypt’s food price inflation between September and December 2023 stands at 27%.

Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Burundi followed in the list of top 10 countries hardest hit by inflation, ranking fifth, sixth, and eighth with 9%, 8%, and 8% increase respectively.

The report was collated between September and December 2023 and indicates that inflation is higher in low and middle-income countries compared to upper-middle-income countries and high-income countries.

63.2% inflation was recorded in low-income countries, 73.9% in lower-middle-income countries, 48% in upper-middle-income countries, and 46.3% in high-income countries.

Meanwhile, Argentina tops the list with 40% real food inflation, followed by Viet Nam with 11%, Palestine with 9% and Lebanon with 8%. The rest are Belize with 8% and Turkey with 7%.

Residents in the Tigray Region in the Northernmost part of Ethiopia are grappling with hunger with the fate of many hanging. According to the Addis Standard, approximately 7,000 people displaced from Western and North Western Tigray have had to seek refuge in Endabaguna town near Shire. The situation is a result of war in the Tigray region. Many persons have succumbed to hunger with close to 400 people including 25 children dying out of starvation. The situation is likely to increase with worsening food insecurity challenges, placing a staggering four million individuals at risk of experiencing emergency hunger conditions, Addis Standard added.

Development projects

Fanabc reported that Ethiopia has signed a 28-million-dollar project agreement with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) to advance the textile and garments industry. The project is expected to be financed in collaboration with the Global Environmental Facility (GEF) as revealed during a signing ceremony at the Ministry of Finance. It will be implemented by the Ethiopian Textile Industries Development Institute and will focus on the promotion of circular economy in the textile and garment sector through the introduction of resource-efficient technologies and will be implemented over 5 years.

National Palace opening

The National Palace in Addis Ababa is scheduled to be opened to the public in February 2024 following months of renovation. Renovations began at the facility formerly called the Jubilee Palace in April 2023 with an estimated timeline of a year.  The palace was previously named Jubilee Palace in honour of Emperor Haile Selassie’s Silver Jubilee in 1955. Before this, the palace only served as the Emperor’s primary residence and was not open to the public. According to Capital Ethiopia , the renovation project is part of the French government’s commitment to bolster the Ethiopian Heritage Program.

Ban on fuel-powered vehicles

The Finance Ministry of Ethiopia has indicated that the import of fuel-powered vehicles in the country has not completely been banned. This comes following a ban on the entry of fuel-powered automobiles by the Ministry of Transport and Logistics. Senior Legal advisor of the ministry, Wasihun Abate told local news media Ethiopian Reporter that no policy or decision prohibits the entry of fuel-powered vehicles into the country and allows only electric vehicles into the country. According to him, the directive is meant only to discourage the entry of such fuel-powered vehicles and encourage the entry of electric vehicles.

UNDP pledges support for National Rehabilitation Commission

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has pledged continued support for Ethiopia’s National Rehabilitation Commission. According to Fanabc the Commissioner for the Ethiopian National Rehabilitation Commission, Ambassador Teshome Toga confirmed this when he met with the UNDP Ethiopia Resident Representative, Samuel Gbaydee Doe to discuss ongoing cooperation. The Commissioner indicated that the Programme has provided the Commission with technical assistance in its efforts in human resource development, structuring and program formulation and material aid such as office equipment and vehicles. The UNDP has also pledged to mobilise more resources to support the efforts of the Commission. 

The initiation ceremony for the study document commenced on August 28, 2023.

At the ceremony, Bezawit Tesfaye, a World Bank representative, announced that the study is projected to conclude by March 2024, with implementation scheduled to commence in April 2024.

The primary objective of the project is to construct 108,797 kilometers of rural roads, connecting 5921 kebeles currently lacking all-season roads. The World Bank is anticipated to cover approximately 40% of the 10-year project cost, estimated at $774 million.

Given Ethiopia's population exceeding 120 million, with approximately 80% residing in rural areas with inadequate road infrastructure, and 66% of the labour force engaged in agriculture, improving connectivity to markets is deemed crucial for development. Ethiopia, being landlocked, places additional importance on enhancing rural connectivity.

Ethiopia's growth strategy in recent decades has heavily relied on substantial public infrastructure investments. Until 2020, the country allocated 4% of its GDP each year to road construction. 

In June 2023, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide presented the budget proposal for the 2016 Ethiopian fiscal year to parliament members. He highlighted a serious fiscal imbalance due to factors such as declining tax revenue, reduced external loans, and increased public spending related to events like the militarized conflict and unprecedented drought sequence. 

“Due to this fiscal imbalance, the government has had to halt the launch of new road projects…Instead, our focus will be on completing the projects that have already been started within the designated timeframe.” Ahmed told MPs.

The World Bank has been a major supporter of the Road Sector Development Program (RSDP), with five phases since 1997. Under the RSDP, the country's road network expanded from 26,500 kilometres to 144,027 kilometres in 2020, with an estimated cost of 414.7 billion birr ($ 7 .3 million) .

Per the data collated between July and October 2023, four African countries Egypt, Sierra Leone, Ghana and Malawi are leading the list in terms of nominal food inflation.

Egypt, Rwanda, Ghana, Sierra Leone and Malawi recorded high figures in terms of Real food inflation.

A year-on-year change in the food component of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), remains alarmingly high.

Other countries including Lebanon, Venezuela, and Argentina also recorded high inflation figures.

The World Bank further pegs inflation at a 5% rate higher in 52.4% of low-income countries, 88.6% of lower-middle-income countries, and 61% of upper-middle-income countries with an increase in double-digit inflation.

In addition, 67.3% of high-income countries are experiencing high food price inflation. The most affected countries are in Africa, North America, Latin America, South Asia, Europe, and Central Asia. In real terms, food price inflation exceeded overall inflation by 76% in 166 countries.