DR Congo Ebola Outbreak Sets Record Pace
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s Ebola outbreak has become the largest recorded on the continent during the first month of an outbreak, according to the World Health Organization. Confirmed cases have reached 1,048, including 267 deaths, just weeks after the outbreak was officially declared.
Amnesty Accuses Libya of Intensifying Migrant Crackdown
Amnesty International says authorities in eastern and western Libya have escalated arrests, detentions, evictions, and expulsions of migrants and refugees over the past month. The rights group also accused the European Union of enabling abuses through its long-running support for Libyan migration control efforts.
Attack in Nigeria’s Plateau State Kills 20
At least 20 people were killed in an attack on a community in Nigeria’s Bokkos district, police said, despite repeated security deployments in the region. Authorities say officers exchanged fire with the attackers before they fled, and additional police units have been sent to the area.
UNAIDS Urges U.S. to Reconsider South Africa HIV Funding Drawdown
UNAIDS chief Winnie Byanyima has urged the U.S. to rethink plans to phase out PEPFAR funding in South Africa, warning that lives could be at risk. South Africa has the world’s largest HIV-positive population, and the U.S. program has been providing about 17% of the country’s HIV funding.
Egypt Detains Hundreds in Gold Mining Crackdown Near Sudan Border
Egyptian security forces have detained hundreds of people, including foreign nationals, in a crackdown on illegal gold mining and smuggling near the Sudan border. The operation comes as gold remains a key source of revenue and conflict financing in neighboring Sudan.
South Sudan Sets December Date for First Election Since Independence
South Sudan has scheduled its first general election since independence for December 22, despite ongoing conflict and political tensions. Opposition figures have warned that unresolved disputes and security concerns could undermine the vote, while former vice president Riek Machar remains under house arrest.
Niger Begins Process to Leave International Criminal Court
Niger has formally notified the United Nations of its decision to leave the International Criminal Court, accusing the tribunal of selective justice. The withdrawal will take effect in 12 months and follows similar moves announced by Mali and Burkina Faso.
Air Peace CEO Calls for Boycott of South African Businesses
The founder and CEO of Nigerian private airline, Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has urged Nigerians to boycott South African businesses and investments in response to recent anti-migrant actions in South Africa. While condemning xenophobic violence, he said any response should remain non-violent and focused on economic pressure rather than retaliation.
RSF Says Missing Burkina Faso Journalist Is Being Held in Secret Detention
Reporters Without Borders says investigative journalist Serge Oulon, missing for two years after being taken from his home in Ouagadougou, is being held at a private detention site and has been subjected to torture. Rights groups have accused Burkina Faso’s military-led government of using unofficial detention centers to hold critics and perceived opponents.