Uganda Races to Contain Worsening Hunger Crisis
Uganda has launched emergency food distributions in the Karamoja region after at least 19 people died of starvation, with experts warning that 1.5 million people are at risk of malnutrition amid the country’s worst drought in decades. Analysts say the crisis has been fueled by prolonged drought, poverty, weak governance, and inadequate long-term investment, with many calling for lasting solutions beyond emergency aid.
U.S. Seeks Role in Ethiopia’s $12.5 Billion Airport Project
The U.S. is pushing for its companies to participate in Ethiopian Airlines’ $12.5 billion Bishoftu airport project as Washington competes with China for infrastructure opportunities in Africa. U.S. officials also said they are seeking closer cooperation with Ethiopia’s Artificial Intelligence Institute to promote exports of American AI technology.
DR Congo Audit Finds Evidence of Pollution Linked to Perenco
A preliminary government audit found evidence that Perenco’s oil operations in DR Congo’s Muanda region polluted the environment, including impacts on soil and air quality from gas flaring near populated areas. Authorities are analyzing groundwater samples to assess contamination, while Perenco says the allegations are not supported by independently verified evidence and that conclusions should wait for the final audit.
Rights Group Says Five Ethiopians Executed in Saudi Arabia
Human Rights Watch says Saudi Arabia executed five Ethiopian nationals this week on drug-related charges after trials that allegedly lacked lawyers and translators, warning that at least 79 more Ethiopians remain at imminent risk of execution. Ethiopia says it is engaging Saudi authorities on cases involving its citizens, while the rights group says the executions violate international human rights standards.
Nigeria Says Meth Bust Exposes Growing Role of African Drug Labs
Nigerian authorities say their record methamphetamine seizure highlights West Africa’s growing role as a production hub for international drug cartels, with Mexican “cooks” increasingly operating laboratories on the continent. Officials say more clandestine labs have been uncovered in Nigeria and neighboring countries as traffickers shift manufacturing closer to markets in Europe and Asia.
DR Congo Court Clears Referendum Bill for Next Step
DR Congo’s Constitutional Court has ruled that a controversial referendum bill complies with the constitution, clearing the way for President Félix Tshisekedi to sign it into law. Critics say the measure could pave the way for a third presidential term despite constitutional term limits, while the court struck down provisions allowing referendums on broadly defined issues of “fundamental” importance.
