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.

This big figure strains resources, as Nigeria battles economic hardship and rising inflation, threatening the survival of many, especially the poor and unemployed, according to  a recent study .

The displacement crisis in Africa’s most populous country is fuelled by persistent conflict, harsh climatic events, unfavourable environmental circumstances and the desperate search for economic opportunity.

Dimanche Sharon, IOM’s Chief of Mission in the West African nation, highlights their efforts to provide basics like water, shelter and protection to help the displaced cope and safely return to their homes.

However, she notes the need to address the underlying causes of internal displacement, such as building resilient communities and fostering collaborations across government institutions and development partners, for sustainability.

“When they return home, for instance, when communities receive these displaced populations... they need economic opportunities and support so they can move forward in dignity,” she adds, revealing that over 9,000 migrants from Edo State have been helped to return to their homes and that the organisation has supported approximately 8,000 to rebuild their lives.

Meanwhile, the IOM’s strategic priorities include saving lives by providing immediate humanitarian assistance, offering protection services and facilitating processes that enable displaced people to recover and reconstruct.

Internal displacement is not unique to Nigeria. According to the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC), about 35 million people in Africa were considered internally displaced by the end of 2023, with conflict and violence accounting for 32.5 million, including Sudan’s approximately 10.1 million .

This is deeply concerning, especially as the African Union seeks to achieve a “conflict-free continent with harmony among communities at the grassroots level and inter–state and intra-state wars eliminated and mechanisms put in place to prevent and resolve conflicts”.

Nigeria’s humanitarian situation demonstrates the need to fill gaps in the country’s response capability and strategy to address conflict-inducing factors like non-state armed violence, weak state presence, limited access to justice and exposure to harsh environmental and climatic events.

The Nigerian government must work with relevant stakeholders to strengthen inclusiveness and shield vulnerable groups like women and girls, “who face heightened exposure to violence, neglect, discrimination, abuse and exploitation” when there are protection gaps .

This aligns with the legal framework for the protection of internally displaced persons, which demands that IDPs enjoy, equally and without discrimination, the same rights and freedoms under international and national law, just like other persons in their country.

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

Sudan’s humanitarian emergency has worsened significantly as insecurity across Kordofan triggers large-scale civilian displacement. According to the briefing, escalating violence has forced families to flee their homes in search of safety, placing immense strain on already overstretched local communities and aid networks. Kordofan, long a flashpoint in Sudan’s conflicts, has seen renewed fighting disrupt livelihoods, agriculture, and access to basic services. The displacement adds to Sudan’s broader crisis, with millions already internally displaced since the outbreak of war, raising alarm among humanitarian agencies over shelter shortages, food insecurity, and the risk of disease outbreaks.

Disinformation becomes a strategic weapon in the conflict

The briefing highlights the growing use of disinformation as a deliberate tool of war in Sudan. Competing narratives, fabricated reports, and manipulated media are being deployed to confuse civilians, undermine trust, and shape both domestic and international perceptions of the conflict. Analysts warn that this information warfare complicates humanitarian access and peace efforts, as false claims can inflame tensions, justify attacks, or obscure responsibility for abuses. The spread of disinformation also poses risks beyond Sudan’s borders, influencing diplomatic engagement and international responses to the crisis.

SAF air raids intensify civilian suffering

Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) air raids have intensified , contributing to rising civilian casualties and widespread destruction. The briefing notes that aerial bombardments are deepening the humanitarian toll, with markets, residential areas, and vital infrastructure increasingly at risk. Such attacks exacerbate displacement and fuel accusations of violations of international humanitarian law. Human rights groups have repeatedly warned that the use of air power in densely populated areas is accelerating civilian harm and undermining prospects for de-escalation.

RSF claims territorial gains as fighting escalates

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have claimed new territorial gains amid the escalating conflict, signalling shifting dynamics on the battlefield. These claims suggest ongoing offensives and counteroffensives that are reshaping control across contested regions. While independent verification remains difficult due to access constraints and information warfare, the reported advances underline the fluid and volatile nature of the conflict, with civilians often caught between rival forces and changing frontlines.

International pressure mounts for a humanitarian truce

Amid the intensifying violence, international efforts to secure a humanitarian truce in Sudan are gaining momentum. The briefing points to renewed diplomatic engagement aimed at pausing hostilities to allow aid delivery and civilian protection. Regional actors and global partners are pressing both SAF and RSF to agree to temporary ceasefires, warning that failure to do so risks further catastrophe. These initiatives reflect growing global concern that Sudan’s war, if left unchecked, could destabilise the wider region and deepen one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises

Survivors described desperate scenes: families escaping at night, many forced to abandon their homes with nothing but what they carried. Coastal towns like Saint‑Marc have seen a flood of displaced people , anger rising as residents demand protection from a government many say has failed to act.

The violence continues a trend of escalating gang power across Haiti. According to recent UN-linked reports, gang violence killed more people in 2024 than in previous years, while armed groups now dominate key regions, including the capital and central territories. The attacks over the weekend underscore how fragile state control has become and how vulnerable civilians are where armed groups operate freely.

Humanitarian organisations warn that the impact goes beyond deaths and displacement: huge numbers face food insecurity, lack of shelter, disrupted access to healthcare and education , and psychological trauma from repeated violence. For many families, survival has turned into a daily struggle, with uncertainty over whether they’ll ever return home or even remain safe while fleeing.

As Haiti’s government and international actors assess next steps, this crisis highlights the urgent need for sustained humanitarian and security responses. Without a coordinated strategy to curb gang power and protect civilians, regions like Artibonite risk sinking deeper into chaos, and thousands more could be forced to abandon everything they know.

With schools and universities shut down, frustration is spreading across the country. Businesses are struggling, and many people are finding it harder to move around or access basic services.

Outside the capital, things are even worse. Clashes between Malian forces and terrorist groups in rural and border areas have forced people from their homes, cut off supply routes, and made it difficult for aid to reach those in need.

The situation has grown so unstable that the United States has issued an urgent security alert, telling all American citizens to leave Mali immediately.

On October 28, the U.S. Embassy in Bamako issued a security alert that reflects the growing danger on the ground. The message urges Americans to leave the country as soon as possible, using commercial flights while they are still available. Roads leading out of Mali are considered too dangerous, with frequent attacks and armed ambushes reported along major highways.

For those who choose to stay, the Embassy advises preparing for emergencies, stocking up on supplies, keeping communication devices ready, and staying out of public view. It also warns that U.S. officials have limited ability to help citizens outside the capital because of the ongoing conflict and travel risks.

“The international airport in Bamako remains open and flights are available,” the alert states. “U.S. citizens should depart using commercial aviation, as overland routes to neighbouring countries may not be safe for travel.”

In Tegucigalpa, the El Reparto neighbourhood was among the hardest hit, with residents struggling to clean debris and rescue what little remains. “My house is destroyed. Practically everything we had is gone,” said one resident. “We’re like when you first move into a house, with nothing.”

Emergency teams continue relocating families from high-risk zones. “We’ve been conducting evacuation and humanitarian assistance efforts in this neighbourhood due to an ongoing geological fault. Around fifty families have been evacuated so far,” explained Angel Acosta, captain of the Armed Forces’ Humanitarian and Rescue Unit.

Authorities have set up at least 15 temporary shelters for displaced families, while over 2,000 homes are reported damaged, 76 destroyed, and 91 communities remain isolated. President Xiomara Castro convened an emergency meeting with the National Risk Management System (Sinager) to coordinate relief efforts.

Local media report that bridges, roads, and river crossings have been swept away, leaving several regions inaccessible. With forecasts warning of continued instability, authorities urge the population to remain alert and avoid unnecessary travel.

Austria has opened political channels with the Taliban by hosting a delegation from the Islamic Emirate to discuss the deportation of 20 Afghan migrants with criminal records. Analysts see this as a sign that European nations may be warming to limited engagement with Kabul’s rulers to address security and migration concerns.

UNAMA’s role dispute

A national debate continues over whether the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) is playing a constructive mediating role or has become irrelevant amid the Taliban’s consolidation of power.

Imran Khan urges Pakistan to send a peace delegation

From outside Afghanistan, imprisoned former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan called on Islamabad to send a peace delegation to Kabul, arguing that closer coordination is needed to stabilise cross-border security.

Internet shutdown fallout

Inside Afghanistan, the Taliban dispatched six ministers to Kandahar to address public anger over internet shutdowns, which have disrupted commerce, education, and communications. This marks one of the most direct government responses to digital rights concerns since the Taliban’s return to power.

Taliban threatens forced evictions in Herat township

Human rights concerns are also rising as reports emerge of threatened forced evictions in Herat, targeting Hazara residents, a move that has sparked fears of ethnic discrimination and displacement.

The war has displaced about 1.9 million people, roughly 90% of Gaza’s population and forced families to move repeatedly as Israeli forces issue evacuation orders.

Monthly data compiled by World Visualized from MoH reports show that fatalities escalated from 8,005 in October 2023 to 27,131 by January 2024 and continued rising steadily.

By June 2025, confirmed deaths reached 56,531, while injuries topped 133,642. Just one month later, in July 2025, the figures climbed to 58,573 fatalities and 139,607 injuries. The sharp increase underscores how even brief pauses in fighting have failed to stem the death toll.

The World Visualized graphics also highlight that while fatalities and injuries in June and July are almost equal in proportion, the absolute numbers continue to grow.

In June, there were 133,642 reported injuries and 56,531 deaths; by July, injuries rose by roughly 6,000, and deaths increased by over 2,000. OCHA notes that 86 % of the Gaza Strip is now either under evacuation orders or classified as an Israeli-militarised zone, leaving civilians with fewer safe areas to seek shelter and increasing the likelihood of casualties.

Beyond the casualty count, OCHA’s latest report warns of worsening humanitarian conditions. Severe shortages of fuel, water and medical supplies threaten to shut down critical services.

Malnutrition rates among children under five have more than doubled since March due to an Israeli blockade that severely restricts food deliveries. OCHA says that over 86 % of Gaza’s territory is either militarised or subject to displacement orders, leaving civilians squeezed into ever‑smaller areas.

UN agencies, including UNICEF and the World Health Organisation, have repeatedly urged Israel to protect civilians and allow unimpeded humanitarian access.

In mid‑July, the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights said Israel’s military campaign is creating conditions “incompatible with the continued existence of Palestinians in Gaza”. Humanitarian convoys coordinated with Israeli authorities are often delayed or denied: between July 9 and 15, nearly 17 % of aid movements were denied, and one-third faced obstacles.

Footage from Thursday shows families wading through muddy water and salvaging what little they could. Children, the elderly, and livestock were seen being carried to safety, Viory reports.

Another resident, Maimuna Mohammed, recounted the terrifying moment the waters surged. “The flood caught us unaware. My children and an elderly woman were rescued from the water. Our belongings were swallowed, and what remained is now completely damaged.”

Abdullaziz Mohammed said his house partially collapsed under the weight of the water. “There was no road for people to get out. The water blocked everywhere. We’ve never seen damage like this, even thinking back to last year’s flood,” he said.

Local officials have yet to issue a full damage assessment.

What they said

“We have seen very positive development and results that would augur well for Cambodia and Thailand,” Anwar said as he stood alongside the two leaders. He added, “This is a vital first step towards de-escalation and the restoration of peace and security.” Hun Manet said he had “a very good meeting and very good result that we hope to stop immediately the fighting that have caused many lives lost.” He also praised Trump’s “decisive” role in facilitating the talks and expressed hope that the agreement would lead to the “rebuilding of trust and confidence” between the two nations. Phumtham, who had previously expressed scepticism about Cambodia’s sincerity, said the ceasefire would “be carried out successfully in good faith by both sides.”

By Saturday, July 26, around 3,000 Thai evacuees had sought refuge at Surindra Rajabhat University in Surin. Evacuees were seen resting on the floors of the university hall as volunteers and uniformed officers distributed food and provided support.

"We had to evacuate our people for their safety. This formula is the only centre that welcomes people in Phanom Drak District. All assistance is going well. Just now I was satisfied with the help. As for the shortages, we will follow up later," Samat, a volunteer from the evacuation team, said.

"My house is located on the border. Between the border and my house, the distance is only 3 kilometres, so I had to come here. I feel homesick, and I am worried about my family because my father is still at home," Ratana, a resident, shared concerns. 

The conflict stems from a territorial dispute dating back to the 1900s. In response to the latest escalation, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who currently chairs the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), proposed a ceasefire on Friday, July 25. On Saturday, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the leaders of both countries had agreed to work toward a ceasefire.

Malaysia’s foreign minister confirmed on Sunday that Thailand and Cambodia had agreed for Malaysia to serve as a mediator in the dispute.

Earlier in July, Thailand’s Constitutional Court suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra following allegations of ethical violations. A leaked phone call between Paetongtarn and former Cambodian leader Hun Sen, in which she reportedly discussed the border conflict and expressed personal support, raised questions regarding propriety and national interest.

US President Donald Trump has expressed a dismissive attitude towards aggressive acts linked to Beijing, including recent hacking incidents and the arrest of Chinese nationals involved in smuggling a pathogen. Speaking on 'Sunday Morning Futures', Trump downplayed these issues, stating, 'That’s the way the world works', comparing the behaviour to US actions. This approach suggests a downplaying of US-China tensions, emphasising mutual espionage activities as part of global diplomacy.

Crackdown on gay erotica in China

According to reports, China is intensifying its crackdown on young female authors writing gay erotica, targeting those publishing on the Taiwanese platform Haitang Literature City. Since February, approximately 30 predominantly female writers have been arrested, facing charges of producing obscene material. This crackdown reflects the broader censorship challenges in China and highlights a social and legal pushback against the state’s restrictive anti-obscenity laws, which disproportionately target gay content.

Trump’s strategic deal with TikTok

President Donald Trump has announced a potential buyer for TikTok amidst the US-China tensions over data security concerns linked to the app, owned by China's ByteDance. This potential transaction, pending China's governmental approval, might influence diplomatic relations, with Trump emphasising the necessity for Chinese leader Xi Jinping's consent. The backdrop includes US claims of national security threats, with ByteDance's ongoing legal battles over the app's forced sale.

Indoctrination concerns in Tibetan schools

An alarming report by the Tibet Action Institute highlights indoctrination practices in Chinese state-run boarding schools for Tibetan children. This initiative is reportedly aimed at cultural assimilation, pushing Mandarin instruction while suppressing Tibetan language and religious practices. This development has raised international human rights concerns. Accounts describe harsh conditions and cultural suppression as means of reinforcing Chinese Communist Party loyalty, amidst the backdrop of historical tensions in the region.

Flood crisis in China’s Guizhou Province

According to reports , the Guizhou province of China is significantly affected by severe flooding, with over 40,000 residents evacuating the area for safety. The city of Rongjiang faced destructive river levels unseen since 1954, prompting authorities to issue the highest-level alerts due to potential dam failures. This situation underscores challenges in adapting infrastructure to endure climate extremes, as the region faces repeated weather-related crises within a short span.

Umar called for greater grassroots-level preparedness, emphasising the need to build community resilience to minimise future losses. She said NEMA had developed a national framework for climate-related risk assessment and mitigation in line with seasonal predictions by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).

“We have embarked on various activities aimed at preventing and mitigating the expected impacts of the disaster with a view to reminding stakeholders about their responsibilities in flood disaster management. Today’s downscaling exercise of the 2025 seasonal climate prediction is further aimed at acquainting major emergency management stakeholders with the predictions and what is expected of them, to mitigate the expected impacts of the disaster,” she said.

NEMA identified Imo State as one of the high-risk flood zones, with Oguta and Ohaji-Egbema local government areas listed as the most vulnerable.

Nnamdi Igwe, Head of NEMA Operations for Abia and Imo states, called for enhanced remote sensing for flood mapping and improved coordination through community liaison systems.

Local traditional authorities also expressed willingness to support disaster preparedness strategies.

The remarks, made by senior Hamas political bureau member Basem Naim, came after Israel reportedly approved a military strategy that includes the long-term occupation of the Gaza Strip, according to an Israeli official.

The ongoing conflict , triggered by Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, has displaced nearly all of Gaza’s 2.4 million residents at least once.

A two-month blockade, in place since early March, has significantly deepened the humanitarian crisis.

“There is no point in discussing ceasefire proposals while the hunger and extermination war persists in Gaza,” Naim told AFP.

Coastal subsidence, exacerbated by over-extraction of groundwater, rapid urbanization, and climate change, has already forced governments to take drastic measures to protect their populations.

Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is sinking at an alarming rate of up to 6.7 inches per year, one of the fastest rates in the world. Studies suggest that much of the city could be underwater by 2050 if current trends continue. The government has responded with an ambitious and costly solution: relocating the capital. The $33 billion project, which aims to move the political and administrative hub to the island of Borneo, is expected to take around 10 years.

However, questions remain about how effectively this move will address the underlying environmental and socio-economic challenges associated with mass displacement.

In the United States, cities such as Houston and New Orleans are experiencing land subsidence at a rate of around 2 inches per year. This process, combined with intensifying hurricanes and storm surges, increases their vulnerability to catastrophic flooding. New Orleans, already below sea level, relies on extensive levee systems to prevent disastrous inundation.

Meanwhile, Miami has become the "poster child" for rising sea levels, facing more frequent tidal floods and saltwater contamination of drinking water supplies. Without intervention, these coastal cities may experience irreversible damage, displacing large populations and disrupting local economies.

Beyond the U.S. and Southeast Asia, Bangladesh faces one of the most severe threats from rising seas. With 17% of the country’s land at risk of submersion, an estimated 18 million people could be displaced by mid-century. Coastal erosion, intensified monsoons, and worsening cyclones add to the urgency of developing long-term solutions to prevent widespread humanitarian crises.

Countries known for their history of water management are implementing innovative solutions to combat the crisis. The Netherlands, famous for its engineering feats in flood control, is investing heavily in storm surge barriers, floating infrastructure, and multi-purpose water parks designed to absorb excess water. Bangkok, another vulnerable coastal city, has developed an 11-acre flood-resistant park that can store up to a million gallons of rainwater, serving as a model for urban resilience.

Despite these efforts, the global outlook remains concerning. Climate scientists project that sea levels could rise by as much as 6.6 feet by 2100, putting hundreds of millions of people at risk. To mitigate these risks, urban planning, infrastructure investments, and policy interventions must be prioritised.

Without urgent and coordinated action, many of the world’s major coastal cities could face irreversible damage, leading to economic turmoil and mass displacement.

As nations grapple with the reality of sinking land and rising seas, governments, scientists, and urban planners must accelerate efforts to implement sustainable and adaptive solutions. The choices made today will determine the fate of these cities and their ability to withstand the future climate challenges.

Public sentiment varies across different populations. ​A recent IPSOS report surveyed 23,721 adults across 33 countries, revealing the highest levels of optimism. China led with 59% of respondents expressing optimism, followed by Indonesia at 56% and India at 51%, while the global average stood at 27%.

U.S. President Donald Trump has emphasised the urgency of reaching a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, asserting that it needs to be finalised soon to end Europe's most devastating conflict in 80 years.

This dream is, however, on the brink of being dashed as Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's visit to the White House on Friday, February 28 ended in an aggressive exchange with President Trump.

Zelenskyy was set to sign a mineral rights deal with Trump which will grant the U.S. a stake in Ukraine's rare earth elements, purportedly to reimburse war aid costs.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine, which began on February 24, 2022 , has had devastating consequences. The conflict started with attacks on major cities like Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, and Sumy. As of January 2025, the United Nations had verified over 12,600 civilian deaths, with millions more displaced.

The displacement of Ukrainians has put a strain on neighbouring countries, with Poland recording the highest number of border crossings, followed by Hungary, Romania, and Russia.

The international community has taken economic measures against Russia, with the U.S., European Union, UK, and allied nations imposing financial and trade sanctions. These sanctions target Russia's financial sector, government-affiliated individuals, and high-tech exports, aiming to cripple the country's ability to wage war.

Throughout the conflict, the U.S. Department of Defence has played a significant role in supporting Ukraine, providing over $66.5 billion in security assistance since the start of the Biden administration.

Dady Djamba, a member of the Congolese Community of Washington Metropolitan group, stated, "We came here to warn the embassy, to tell them that what they are doing is not right. This aggression must end," he told the AFP.

Maya Ford, a student from New York who lived in Congo for two years, emphasised the need for global attention. "Congo deserves better. It deserves a voice. This conflict has been ignored for too long, and we need to make sure Congo’s needs are heard," she said.

The protest comes as M23 fighters and Rwandan troops threaten another key town in eastern DRC, having already seized Goma and advanced into South Kivu province. The ongoing conflict has claimed thousands of lives and displaced many, with armed groups taking control of mineral-rich areas.

In response, the United Nations Human Rights Council has announced an investigation into alleged violations and abuses during the violence.

The violence has sparked widespread fear and uncertainty among the population, with many forced to flee their homes in search of safety.

Musahada Babunga Bienfait a motor conducter told AFP "At the level of Dar es Salaam, there will be no solution. I am convinced that there won't be given that he hasn’t left. He had to confront directly with, so, Paul Kagame, the Rwandan president, because he is the real enemy of the DRC. The Congolese who are at the level of North Kivu, those who are in South Kivu fighting are just pawns, but the real enemy of our country is really Rwanda."

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

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

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

"We're here in Goma to stay as Congolese and protect the population against the uncivilised. We will continue the liberation march all the way to Kinshasa," the group's leader Corneille Nangaa told reporters on Thursday, January 30.

The M23's capture of Goma has sparked widespread displacement, with tens of thousands of people fleeing the city and surrounding areas.

Despite denials from the Rwandan government, the M23 is widely believed to be backed by Rwanda The conflict has sparked a diplomatic row between Rwanda and DR Congo, with each country accusing the other of supporting rebel groups.

The M23 rebel group, backed by Rwandan forces, has made substantial advances in recent weeks, encircling the key city of Goma.

This strategic city, home to around 2 million people, is a regional hub for security and humanitarian efforts. The rebels' swift advance has led to the closure of Goma's airport, further complicating evacuation and aid efforts.

Reports indicate that several Congolese soldiers have surrendered to the M23 rebels as the fighting intensifies. The Congolese army, known as FARDC, has struggled to maintain control over strategic points in the region. Despite government claims of holding key areas, including the Goma airport, the situation on the ground remains fluid and uncertain.

Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, expressed grave concern during a press conference in Geneva on Thursday. "There is evidence of the commission of war crimes and other atrocity crimes," she stated, referencing the growing pattern of violence targeting Sudanese minorities in the region, the AFP reports.

Shamdasani further addressed reports of chemical weapon use, including a U.S. report denouncing the Sudanese army’s possible deployment of such weapons. While the UN has not independently verified these claims due to limited access in Sudan, Shamdasani emphasised the seriousness of the reports. "These reports are very worrying, very concerning, and they do require further investigation," she said. "As you know, the use of chemical weapons is explicitly banned under international law."

However, the UN has documented other forms of violence, including the use of heavy weaponry in civilian-populated areas. "What we have documented is the use of extremely heavy weaponry in populated areas, including airstrikes in heavily populated areas and marketplaces," Shamdasani added. She called for an immediate halt to such indiscriminate violence, urging all parties to respect international law and protect civilian lives.

The violence comes amid the ongoing war between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has been raging since April 2023. The conflict has already caused widespread displacement and humanitarian crises, with tens of thousands of lives lost and millions forced to flee their homes.

This week, Sudan’s military launched an offensive in Al-Jazira, recapturing its capital, Wad Madani, from the RSF. However, the victory has only intensified fears of further escalation and civilian suffering.

The event, attended by Colombian President Gustavo Petro and former FARC leader Rodrigo “Timochenko” Londoño, celebrated progress while acknowledging the challenges that persist, the AFP reports.

DiCarlo expressed optimism about Colombia’s ability to achieve lasting peace. "In Colombia, you are writing a different story, one of expanding peace and inclusion. Comprehensive and lasting peace remains within your reach," she said.

President Gustavo Petro acknowledged that much remains to be done. "The political process has not been vigorous enough to put the peace process into practice," he said, adding that critical elements like agrarian reform are far from complete.

Former FARC commander Rodrigo Londoño urged Petro to push forward. “Mr. President, you signed a peace agreement in 1990. Now you have the responsibility to enforce the 2016 peace agreement. Count on us,” Londoño said.

Although the 2016 peace agreement has reduced overall violence, at least 1.5 million people have been displaced since its signing, according to the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC). Dissident groups, the National Liberation Army (ELN), and criminal organizations like the Clan del Golfo continue to fuel conflict in some regions.

Ethiopia has congratulated Somaliland on its recent presidential election, recognising it as peaceful and democratic. The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs praised the Somaliland National Electoral Commission for conducting free and fair elections, making Ethiopia the first country to acknowledge Somaliland's electoral process. International observers also commended the transparency of voter registration and candidate nomination. The election featured incumbent Muse Bihi Abdi and his opponents, with results yet to be declared. Despite this progress, Somaliland faces ongoing tensions with Somalia over an 'illegal' agreement allowing Ethiopia access to the sea for a military base, which Somalia rejects, viewing it as annexation.

Collaboration with UN agencies to launch internal displacement strategy

On November 14, 2024, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), United Nations Developmental Programme (UNDP), and United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) launched a Durable Solutions Strategy in Ethiopia to address the growing internal displacement caused by conflict and climate shocks, which is reversing years of poverty reduction. Meeting in Addis Ababa, leaders emphasised the need for development and peacebuilding solutions beyond humanitarian aid. Despite lifting 15 million people out of poverty, the country faces setbacks from crises, resulting in significant needs among displaced people and host communities. The strategy promotes the integration of humanitarian, development, and climate action efforts to ensure comprehensive recovery. The UN calls for increased donor support in line with the UN Secretary-General’s Action Agenda on Internal Displacement. Ethiopia is among 15 countries implementing this strategy, aiming to create conditions for the safe return and integration of displaced individuals while improving access to services and economic opportunities.

Low-carbon development agreement with Russia

Ethiopia and Russia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on low-carbon development during COP29 in Baku, aimed at enhancing cooperation in climate change mitigation and sustainable financing. The MoU, signed by Ethiopian State Minister Seyoum Mekonnen and Russian Deputy Minister Vladimir Ilyichev, establishes a working group to promote best practices in greenhouse gas emissions reduction, conduct joint research, and develop carbon regulation mechanisms. The collaboration aligns with both countries' business interests in achieving climate goals and may facilitate Ethiopia's forthcoming BRICS Memorandum on Carbon Market Partnership.

Military helicopter crash

An Ethiopian military helicopter crashed at Belay Zeleke International Airport in Bahir Dar, northern Ethiopia on Saturday, November 16, raising concerns about the presence of officials onboard. The cause of the crash and any potential casualties remain unknown. Following the incident, all flights to and from Bahir Dar have been suspended. The government has not yet commented on the situation. Defence chief Field Marshal Berhanu Jula had visited Bahir Dar the previous day for a meeting, leading to speculation about the crash's context. Reports indicate multiple helicopters had been operating in the area recently.

Fight against Somalian jihadist group Al-Shabaab

Ethiopia plans to continue its fight against Al-Shabaab in Somalia, emphasising the need to protect national security and past victories against the militant group. Ministry spokesperson Nebiat Getachew highlighted Ethiopia's key role in reducing Al-Shabaab threats in the Horn of Africa. However, relations between Ethiopia and Somalia have deteriorated after Somalia's Defense Minister labelled Ethiopia a "hostile" country, opposing its participation in the upcoming African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission. Somalia has also demanded Ethiopian troop withdrawal by December 2024, citing territorial integrity concerns linked to an agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland. This diplomatic tension raises fears of increased Al-Shabaab activity in the region.

Israel conducted airstrikes on Hezbollah's stronghold in south Beirut and the city of Nabatiyeh in southern Lebanon, resulting in six deaths and 43 injuries, as reported by the AFP.

The strikes targeted municipal buildings and were condemned by Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati. In response, Hezbollah attacked an Israeli tank near the border.

The conflict, which began in October last year, has intensified, with Israel aiming to create a buffer zone free of Hezbollah fighters.

The war has displaced 690,000 people in Lebanon and caused significant casualties on both sides. Despite calls for a ceasefire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains opposed.

Hunger and disease could claim the lives of over 2 million people by the end of this year, with the toll potentially rising to over 10 million by 2027 if the ongoing civil war persists without any intervention.

A joint statement by the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), Danish Refugee Council (DRC), and the Mercy Corps, noted that "Sudan is experiencing a starvation crisis of historic proportions. The silence is deafening. People are dying of hunger every day, and yet the focus remains on semantic debates and legal definitions."

The crisis began in April 2023, when  violent clashes  erupted between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a powerful paramilitary group. This power struggle has plunged the country into chaos, resulting in widespread violence, displacement, and destruction. Civilians have been the hardest hit, with millions fleeing their homes and many trapped in besieged cities with limited access to food, water, and medical supplies.

The ongoing conflict has also severely disrupted agriculture, leading to a dramatic decline in food production and exacerbating the already dire situation.