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Today in Africa — June 11, 2026: Ebola Kills Infants in DR Congo, Nigerians Repatriated From South Africa

OkayAfrica has scoured the Internet for today’s major news stories, so you don't have to. On June 11, coverage includes: caregivers infected while caring for sick children at an orphanage in eastern DR Congo; the arrival of the first evacuation flight carrying hundreds of Nigerians home as more than 1,000 citizens sign up for voluntary return from South Africa; and more.

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Lihle Z. Mtshali Today in Africa & Newsletter Editor
Passengers and officials stand on airport steps beside a chartered plane after repatriation arrival in Lagos.
Nigerian passengers, who were repatriated from South Africa, disembark from a chartered plane after landing at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, Nigeria, on June 11, 2026.

Every day, OkayAfrica shares a roundup of news we’re following but haven’t published as full articles. These short updates cover what’s happening on the continent — in culture, politics, and beyond. For more on stories like these, be sure to check out our News page, with stories from across the regions.

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Ebola Claims Two Babies at DR Congo Orphanage as Outbreak Spreads

The Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has claimed the lives of two babies linked to a church-run orphanage in Bunia, including a newborn who died shortly after arriving there and a second infant who later tested positive for the virus. Health workers say 635 people have been infected and at least 1127 have died in the outbreak, as the outbreak spreads to a new health zone in the northeastern province of Ituri. Aid agencies warn that children may face heightened risks due to malnutrition, conflict-related hardship, and limited health resources in the region.

Why Health Workers Are Concerned:

  • Six babies from the orphanage were treated as suspected Ebola cases; five later tested negative and were discharged.

  • Three caregivers, including a nun, have tested positive for Ebola after caring for infected children.

  • UNICEF says children account for about 17% of confirmed cases in the outbreak based on preliminary data.

  • The U.S. State Department announced an additional $20 million in Ebola assistance, bringing the total direct U.S. support to over $220 million.

  • Doctors across the DR Congo have announced a strike beginning today, Thursday, June 11, over pay, working conditions, and health sector funding, though emergency services will continue to operate.

First Group of Nigerians Repatriated From South Africa Amid Anti-Immigration Violence

The first group of Nigerians has returned home from South Africa under a government-organized repatriation program launched in response to recent anti-immigration violence. A flight carrying 262 passengers and three officials arrived in Lagos today, Thursday, June 11, with Nigerian authorities saying more than 1,000 citizens have registered for voluntary return as concerns grow over the safety of foreign nationals in South Africa.

What Else to Know:

  • Nigeria’s government said the evacuation was ordered by President Bola Tinubu for citizens who feel their lives are at risk.

  • Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu urged returnees to prioritize their safety and that of their families over property or possessions left behind.

  • Ghana has already repatriated about 1,000 of its citizens from South Africa following similar concerns.

  • Liberia has also raised concerns about the safety of its nationals and is considering facilitating returns if necessary.

  • South African officials have condemned attacks on foreigners and described the incidents as xenophobic.

South Sudan Whistleblower Reportedly Abducted in Kenya and Taken to Juba

A South Sudanese whistleblower who alleged corruption in his home country was reportedly abducted in Kenya and transferred to South Sudan’s capital, Juba, according to his wife. Athorbey Al-Gaddhaffy-Dit, who also holds Kenyan citizenship, was allegedly seized by armed, masked men near Nairobi on Tuesday, raising fresh concerns about the safety of political dissidents and refugees living in Kenya.

Why the Case Is Drawing Concern:

  • Amnesty International warned that returning him to South Sudan could pose a serious threat to his life, safety, and rights.

  • Human rights activist Boniface Mwangi said Gaddhaffy-Dit believed he was being targeted after sharing information about alleged high-level corruption with journalists and diplomats.

  • A 2023 UN report documented what it described as extraterritorial operations by South Sudanese security forces in countries including Kenya and Uganda.

  • Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Africa Tibor Nagy criticized the incident, saying Nairobi no longer appears safe for people fleeing authoritarian governments.

  • Kenyan and South Sudanese officials said they were not aware of the reported abduction, while police had not publicly commented.

In Brief: More Stories Today

Somali Referee Omar Artan Appointed to UEFA Super Cup

Somali referee Omar Artan has been appointed to officiate next month’s UEFA Super Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa, after being denied entry into the U.S. and missing the World Cup. UEFA said the appointment was made in coordination with the Confederation of African Football under a new cooperation agreement between the two organizations.

Starlink Rejection Faces Backlash in Namibia

Namibia’s communications regulator has received 624 requests to review its decision to deny Starlink an operating license, highlighting strong public demand for improved internet access. Regulators say the company failed to meet requirements on local ownership, compliance, and national security, while supporters argue the focus should be on creating conditions that allow the service to operate legally.

Air Express Algeria Added to EU Flight Ban List

Air Express Algeria has been barred from flying in European Union airspace after regulators identified serious safety shortcomings during inspections. The airline was added to the EU Air Safety List, which now includes 154 carriers banned from operating in Europe because of safety concerns or inadequate regulatory oversight.

Madagascar Deepens Military Ties With Russia

Madagascar is set to receive a second shipment of Russian military equipment as the country’s military-led government expands cooperation with Moscow. The delivery includes vehicles and mobile power plants and follows an earlier shipment of armored vehicles, weapons, and ammunition after last year’s coup that brought the junta to power.

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