Africa News from a Ghanaian Lens

Africa news covered from a Ghanaian lens: regional politics, economies, and the events shaping the continent. Curated from leading newsrooms and updated through the day, newest first.

Joseph Kabila accused of planning armed insurgency in DR Congo
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Joseph Kabila accused of planning armed insurgency in DR Congo

The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has formally accused former President Joseph Kabila of orchestrating a "general attack" against the state. According to government spokesman Patrick Muyaya, Kabila is allegedly collaborating with the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group to launch an armed insurgency. The announcement marks a significant escalation in the ongoing political instability within the central African nation, highlighting the fragile security situation in the eastern provinces where rebel activity remains high. Officials claim that Kabila intends to establish a new militant organisation called the Front for the Refoundation of the Nation (FRN). The group's purported objective is to "combat tyranny" and seize territory within the DRC. This development follows Kabila's return to Goma in May 2025, a move that occurred despite him previously being condemned to death in absentia by a military court for his alleged links to the M23 rebels. The government asserts that the FRN is designed to provide a political and military platform for Kabila’s return to power through force. The allegations come at a time of heightened political tension in Kinshasa, as President Felix Tshisekedi explores constitutional amendments that could allow him to seek a third term in office. While Kabila has publicly voiced support for opposition movements and criticized the current administration, the government maintains that his dissent has transitioned into active subversion. Opposition rallies have grown more frequent, reflecting a deepening divide between the government and its critics over democratic processes, national sovereignty, and the handling of the conflict in the east. As the DRC continues to battle various armed groups in its volatile eastern provinces, these accusations against a former head of state threaten to further destabilise the region. The international community has previously raised concerns about the involvement of neighbouring states in the DRC's internal conflicts, and the alleged alliance between Kabila and the M23 could complicate regional diplomatic efforts to restore peace. The Congolese government has indicated it will take necessary measures to protect the state, though specific next steps regarding Kabila’s legal status have not yet been clarified.

Sudanese army kills dozens of RSF fighters in Nyala air strikes
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Sudanese army kills dozens of RSF fighters in Nyala air strikes

The Sudanese army has reported killing dozens of Rapid Support Forces (RSF) fighters during a series of air raids in Nyala, South Darfur. The military operations targeted strategic locations within the city, which has been a major point of contention in the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary group. According to military sources, the strikes were directed at RSF positions and command centres. Nyala is currently the administrative base for the RSF in the region, and the army’s aerial campaign aimed to disrupt the group's organisational structure. The army maintains that the targets were strictly military in nature and resulted in significant losses for the paramilitary forces. However, the Rapid Support Forces have disputed the army's account of the incident. In a counter-claim, the RSF stated that the air raids hit civilian areas within the administrative base, leading to casualties among the non-combatant population. The group alleged that the strikes were indiscriminate and impacted residents who were not involved in the fighting. The contradictory reports from both sides highlight the increasing difficulty in verifying facts as the conflict in Sudan intensifies. Nyala remains a critical battleground in the Darfur region, and the frequent use of air power in urban areas continues to raise concerns about the safety of civilians caught in the crossfire between the two warring factions.

Tigray ex-combatants register for civilian reintegration in Mekelle
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Tigray ex-combatants register for civilian reintegration in Mekelle

Hundreds of former combatants in Ethiopia's Tigray region have officially begun the registration process for a formal reintegration program. The initiative, aimed at transitioning ex-fighters back into civilian life, commenced at the Tigray Martyrs' Memorial Monument in the regional capital of Mekelle. This significant step follows the recent shift in regional authority, occurring after federal forces regained control of the city from Tigray rebels. The registration process marks a critical phase in the post-conflict recovery of the northern Ethiopian region. By gathering at the symbolic memorial site, the former fighters are submitting their details to join a structured program designed to provide them with the necessary tools and support for social and economic stability. This transition is viewed as a vital component of the broader peace process, aimed at reducing the presence of armed groups and fostering long-term security in the area. The successful reintegration of these individuals into their communities is expected to play a major role in the stabilization of Mekelle and its surrounding districts. As federal forces consolidate their control over the city, the regional focus is increasingly shifting toward reconstruction and the restoration of civil order. The progress of this registration and rehabilitation effort will be closely monitored as a barometer for the success of the disarmament and reintegration strategies in the region.

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Halidi Zibwa arrested for allegedly beheading three-year-old stepbrother

Police in the Namutumba District of Uganda have apprehended 25-year-old Halidi Zibwa following the gruesome murder of his three-year-old stepbrother. The suspect was taken into custody on the morning of October 16, 2026, in Bugali Village, where the fatal incident is reported to have occurred. Authorities were alerted to the scene shortly after the discovery of the child's body, which had been decapitated. The arrest has left the local community in Bugali Village in a state of shock as investigators attempt to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy. While the identity of the young victim has been confirmed as the suspect's stepbrother, the specific circumstances that led to such a violent confrontation remain under intense scrutiny. Zibwa is currently being held at a regional police facility while officers collect forensic evidence and statements from potential witnesses within the household. As of now, the motive behind the beheading remains unknown. Police officials have indicated that their primary focus is on establishing a clear timeline and determining if there were any prior domestic disputes that could have triggered the attack. Family members are expected to be questioned as part of the broader inquiry into the suspect's background and mental state at the time of the incident. The suspect remains in police custody and is expected to face formal charges once the preliminary investigation is concluded. Local authorities have urged residents to cooperate with the ongoing probe and have assured the public that justice will be pursued in what they describe as a deeply distressing case of domestic homicide. The case is expected to be processed through the Namutumba district court system in the coming days.

European Union pledges €20m to support Nigerian Armed Forces
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European Union pledges €20m to support Nigerian Armed Forces

The European Union (EU) has committed to providing €20 million in defense assistance to Nigeria to help the country address its ongoing security challenges. This commitment, announced by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd), will be funded through the European Peace Facility (EPF). The assistance is specifically designed to support the Nigerian Armed Forces in their operations against various forms of insecurity across the nation. To ensure the effective implementation of this support, a technical delegation from the European Union is scheduled to arrive in Abuja in November. The primary objective of this visit is to finalize the modalities for the delivery and utilization of the €20 million package. This planning phase will allow both parties to align the assistance with the immediate tactical and strategic needs of the Nigerian military. The European Peace Facility is a key instrument used by the EU to enhance international security and strengthen the military capabilities of partner countries. By providing these resources, the EU aims to bolster Nigeria's internal stability, which remains a critical component of regional peace in West Africa. The funding is expected to enhance the operational readiness of the Nigerian Armed Forces as they continue to lead domestic security efforts. This development marks a deepening of the security cooperation between Nigeria and the European Union. As the November technical visit approaches, the Nigerian government is expected to present specific priority areas where the assistance can have the most impact. The successful deployment of these funds will be a significant step in the ongoing international effort to combat terrorism and banditry within the region.

Africa Prosperity Network reschedules 2027 dialogues to January 13
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Africa Prosperity Network reschedules 2027 dialogues to January 13

The Africa Prosperity Network (APN) has announced that the 2027 edition of the Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) will now take place from January 13 to 15, 2027. Held at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City in Accra, the event is hosted under the patronage of President John Dramani Mahama. The rescheduling brings the event forward by two weeks from its original dates to ensure better alignment with the continental diplomatic calendar and religious observances. According to the organizers, the adjustment was made primarily to coordinate with the African Union’s schedule, specifically the AU Summit slated for January 30 to 31, 2027. By moving the dialogues earlier, the APN aims to facilitate the attendance of African heads of state and business leaders who have commitments at the summit. Furthermore, the new dates avoid a clash with the holy month of Ramadan, which is expected to begin around February 7, 2027, depending on the sighting of the moon. The 2027 dialogues will focus on the theme "The Africa We Want Is Borderless. Move Freely. Pay Seamlessly. Trade More." This theme underscores the event's commitment to advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by addressing barriers to movement and financial integration. A central objective of the gathering is to finalize the APD Action Compact, a strategic document that will be presented to African leaders during the subsequent AU Summit to influence policy on intra-African trade. The APN has issued an apology for any inconvenience caused by the date change and has urged all stakeholders, including delegates and partners, to update their travel and logistical arrangements. Tickets for the three-day event are currently available through the network’s official website. As Accra prepares to host this high-level forum, the dialogues remain a critical platform for public-private sector engagement aimed at accelerating Africa's economic transformation.

A grey Harbin Z-9 military helicopter is captured in flight against a bright, clear sky. The aircraft appears to be a utility or transport model similar to those operated by the Nigerian Air Force mentioned in recent news reports.
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Nigerian Air Force crash disrupts livelihoods of 1,500 Ondo fishermen

Approximately 1,500 members of the Ilaje Fishermen Association in Ondo State, Nigeria, are facing severe economic hardship following the crash of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft. The incident, which occurred on October 5, 2023, saw the aircraft go down in the waters of Igbokoda. Twelve days after the crash, local boat operators and fishermen report that their primary sources of income have been almost entirely cut off, leading to a mounting humanitarian crisis in the affected coastal communities. The aircraft was reportedly carrying 25 people at the time of the accident. While recovery and investigative efforts followed the crash, the presence of the wreckage and the subsequent disruption to the local ecosystem have prevented the Ilaje fishermen from conducting their usual daily activities. This disruption has had an immediate and sharp impact on the local economy, which relies almost exclusively on the sea for sustenance and trade. Leaders of the fishermen's association have expressed grave concern over the dwindling resources available to their members. They noted that since the incident, hunger has become a significant issue for the 1,500 individuals and their families who depend on the Igbokoda waters. The association is highlighting the need for urgent attention to the plight of the local workers, as the 12-day hiatus from fishing has exhausted the meager savings of many households. As the community continues to grapple with the aftermath of the crash, questions remain regarding potential compensation and the timeline for restoring full access to the fishing grounds. The situation underscores the vulnerability of artisanal fishing communities to industrial and military accidents. Local residents are now looking to the Nigerian government and the Air Force authorities for support and a clear path toward resuming their livelihoods in the wake of the disaster.

Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri appointed as Morocco's first female Prime Minister
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Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri appointed as Morocco's first female Prime Minister

King Mohammed VI of Morocco has formally appointed a new government, marking a historic milestone with the naming of Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri as the country’s first female Prime Minister. This landmark decision signals a significant shift in the nation's political landscape, breaking long-standing gender barriers at the highest level of executive authority. The appointment follows a period of political negotiation to form a stable administration capable of addressing the kingdom's legislative and economic priorities. The new government is anchored by a strategic coalition led by El Mansouri’s Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM). This alliance includes the Istiqlal party along with two smaller left-wing organizations, providing the administration with a functional majority in the legislative chamber. Together, these parties command 210 seats out of the 395-seat parliament, ensuring the new Prime Minister has the necessary support to navigate her policy agenda through the House of Representatives. Prime Minister El Mansouri brings a wealth of political experience to the role, having previously served as the Mayor of Marrakech. Her leadership of the PAM, a party often associated with modernizing reforms, was a key factor in the coalition's formation. The inclusion of the Istiqlal party—one of Morocco's oldest political entities—and the left-wing partners suggests an effort to balance traditional political interests with a progressive mandate for the incoming administration. As this new government begins its tenure, the focus will turn to the implementation of socio-economic reforms and the management of regional diplomatic relations. The historic nature of a woman-led government is expected to resonate beyond Morocco’s borders, potentially setting a precedent for female political representation across North Africa and the wider Arab world. The success of this coalition will ultimately be measured by its ability to maintain internal cohesion while delivering on its promises to the Moroccan electorate.

Officials of Greenpeace Africa mounted a 6-metre installation at the Jamestown Beach in an attempt to draw attention to the growing volume of textile waste entering Ghana
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Greenpeace Africa links global fashion brands to textile waste in Accra

Greenpeace Africa has released a brand audit identifying major international retailers, including H&M, Primark, and Marks & Spencer, as primary sources of textile pollution in Accra. The findings reveal that approximately 40% of second-hand clothing imported into Ghana—locally known as "obroni wawu"—is unusable waste that immediately enters the environment. This influx of discarded garments is creating significant environmental and health hazards in local markets and along the coastline, overwhelming existing waste management infrastructure. The organization’s audit specifically examined 201 discarded garments collected from critical locations, including James Town Beach and the Kantamanto Market, which serves as West Africa's largest second-hand clothing hub. Investigators discovered alarming levels of synthetic fibers in the discarded clothing, which do not biodegrade and contribute to long-term environmental degradation. When these textiles are not clogging drainage systems or washing up on beaches, they are often burned in open-air pits, releasing toxic fumes that pose severe respiratory risks to residents and market traders. In response to these findings, Greenpeace Africa is calling for a ban on the importation of "dead waste" and urging the Ghanaian government to implement stricter regulations for fashion brands to address their environmental impact. The organization advocates for a shift in global fashion business models and greater support for Ghana's local textile and design industries to reduce dependency on poor-quality imports. By holding global brands accountable for the full lifecycle of their products, environmentalists hope to mitigate the waste crisis currently affecting Accra's natural ecosystems.

Erik Prince supports DRC government forces against M23 militia
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Erik Prince supports DRC government forces against M23 militia

US businessman Erik Prince and his private military contractors are reportedly providing critical support to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government forces as they battle the M23 militia. This involvement follows a significant setback for the Congolese military when the strategic city of Goma fell to the M23 group in early 2025. Prince, who gained international notoriety as the founder of the private security firm Blackwater, is operating within a framework described as "business-as-security," where private military engagement is closely linked to economic interests. Foreign paramilitaries associated with Prince have been observed backing Congolese national forces in the field, utilizing high-tech support such as drone surveillance and direct military assistance aimed at pushing back the M23 advance. While the presence of these contractors is increasingly visible, the specific details regarding their contracts, funding sources, and official affiliations with the DRC government remain opaque. This lack of transparency has raised concerns among international observers about the accountability of private actors in a complex conflict zone. The deployment of private security forces coincides with a surge in international interest in the DRC’s vast reserves of strategic minerals. The United States and other global powers have expressed growing concern over securing supply chains for resources critical to modern technology. Prince's "business-as-security" model suggests a direct interplay between the provision of security and the management of mineral resources. This development has sparked a debate on whether the presence of foreign paramilitaries will stabilize the region or further complicate the governance of the nation's natural wealth. As the conflict remains unresolved, the role of private military companies like those linked to Prince adds a new layer of complexity to the security dynamics in Central Africa. While these forces may provide immediate tactical advantages to the Congolese military, questions persist regarding the long-term impact on local stability and sovereignty. The involvement of foreign contractors highlights the shifting nature of modern warfare, where private commercial interests often intersect with national security objectives in resource-rich territories.

Zambia wins UN Human Rights Council seat with 177 votes
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Zambia wins UN Human Rights Council seat with 177 votes

Zambia has been elected to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for a three-year term, scheduled to begin in 2027 and run through 2029. The Southern African nation secured its seat with an impressive 177 votes out of 181 valid ballots cast, representing the highest tally among all candidates in the election. This strong showing indicates a significant level of international trust and diplomatic support for Zambia’s upcoming role in the global human rights framework. The UNHRC, based in Geneva, is an intergovernmental body within the United Nations system comprising 47 member states. It is tasked with the promotion and protection of human rights worldwide, as well as addressing situations of human rights violations. By obtaining the most votes in this election cycle, Zambia has positioned itself as a leading African voice on the council, capable of contributing to the monitoring and assessment of global human rights standards over its three-year tenure. As Zambia prepares to take its seat in 2027, the country will join discussions on a wide range of human rights issues, including the Universal Periodic Review process which examines the human rights records of all UN member states. The country's participation will be vital in shaping resolutions and participating in thematic debates that impact global policy. This successful bid marks a critical achievement for Zambian diplomacy, providing the nation with a renewed platform to engage in collaborative efforts to uphold fundamental freedoms on the international stage.

IMF projects 4.5% economic growth for Africa this year
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IMF projects 4.5% economic growth for Africa this year

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected an economic growth rate of 4.5% for Africa this year, reflecting a resilient recovery despite global headwinds. Speaking at the IMF and World Bank meeting in Bangkok, Zeine Zeidane, the head of the IMF’s Africa department, indicated that the continent is successfully navigating the energy crisis linked to the Iran war. This positive outlook suggests that many African economies are finding ways to maintain stability amidst significant international volatility. The IMF's revised forecast anticipates that the growth trend will continue to strengthen, with a recovery to 5% projected by 2027. This medium-term optimism is based on the performance of several key economies that have managed to buffer the shocks of rising fuel and commodity prices. However, the growth is not uniform across the continent, and the IMF emphasized the importance of continued fiscal discipline and structural reforms to sustain this upward trajectory in the coming years. Despite the encouraging growth figures, the IMF raised concerns about a sharp decline in international development assistance. Last year saw a significant drop in aid, and officials expect a further 12% decrease in support this year. This reduction in external funding poses a direct threat to the long-term stability and development goals of several nations. Zeidane warned that the reduction in aid could limit the ability of governments to invest in critical infrastructure and social safety nets. To mitigate the impact of shrinking aid, the IMF has urged African nations to focus on domestic revenue mobilization and more efficient public spending. The transition toward less dependence on foreign assistance is seen as a necessary step for enduring economic sovereignty. As the global landscape remains uncertain, the IMF maintains that while the 4.5% growth is a strong signal of recovery, the continent must remain vigilant against external shocks and the widening financing gap.