NEWS

Today in Africa — May 29, 2027: Kenya Arrests Eight Students Over Deadly School Fire, Dangote Is Top Global Jet Fuel Exporter

OkayAfrica has scoured the Internet for today’s major news stories, so you don't have to. On May 29, coverage includes: Student arrests and launch of disciplinary action against school officials following the dormitory fire that killed 16 girls in Kenya; Nigeria’s Dangote Refinery becoming the world’s largest jet fuel exporter and outlining plans to expand its footprint across global energy markets; and more.

Aliko Dangote in a suit and red tie raises his hand at a formal event.
Nigerian multinational industrial conglomerate Dangote Group's CEO Aliko Dangote.

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.

Eight Students Arrested After Deadly Kenya Boarding School Fire

Kenyan police have arrested eight female students on suspicion of arson following the dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls School that killed 16 students and injured at least 79 others. Authorities say the motive remains unclear, but investigators are examining CCTV footage and interviewing students and staff as questions mount over safety failures at the school, including reports that one of the dormitory’s exit doors was locked during the fire.

What Investigators Found:

 • Police detained 30 students for questioning before arresting eight of them on suspicion of involvement in the fire.

• Education officials say two teachers were aware that students were planning something but failed to act.

• The school’s board of management has been dissolved, and the principal faces disciplinary action over safety violations.

• Authorities found the dormitory was overcrowded and that a locked exit door violated required safety regulations.

• Some families were still awaiting DNA testing to identify victims, while others said they had not been informed whether their children were among those arrested or being questioned.

Dangote Refinery Becomes World’s Largest Jet Fuel Exporter

Nigeria’s Dangote Petroleum Refinery became the world’s largest exporter of jet fuel in April, according to S&P Global Commodities at Sea data, as conflict in the Middle East disrupted global fuel supply chains and pushed buyers to seek alternatives. The 650,000-barrel-per-day refinery, led by Africa’s wealthiest man, Aliko Dangote, increased aviation fuel production and exports amid uncertainty around the Strait of Hormuz, while also accelerating plans to position itself as a global trading hub for crude oil and refined products. The milestone marks a major moment for Nigeria’s energy sector and highlights the refinery’s growing influence in international fuel markets.

What’s Driving Dangote’s Expansion:

 • Refinery executives say the company shifted into “max jet mode” after fuel flows through the Middle East were disrupted by regional conflict.

• The facility can currently process around 40 different crude oil grades and aims to increase that number significantly over time.

• Dangote is exploring long-term supply and offtake agreements with governments, airlines, and national oil companies.

• The company is investing in storage and logistics projects across Africa, including proposed facilities in Namibia and discussions around pipeline infrastructure in Zambia.

• Dangote’s long-term goal is to expand production capacity to 1.4 million barrels per day, sourcing crude from regions including the U.S., the Middle East, and South America.

Kenyan Court Halts U.S.-Backed Ebola Quarantine Facility

A Kenyan court has temporarily blocked plans for a U.S.-backed Ebola quarantine facility in central Kenya after a legal challenge raised concerns about public health, transparency, and constitutional rights. The proposed 50-bed unit, intended to house Americans exposed to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, was expected to begin operating on Friday. The suspension comes amid growing public opposition in Kenya, where critics say the government has not fully disclosed the agreement's details.

Why the Plan Is Facing Pushback:

 • The High Court ordered the government not to admit any Ebola-exposed or infected individuals under the arrangement until the case is heard, with the next hearing set for June 2.

• The lawsuit, filed by the Katiba Institute, argues the agreement raises concerns about public participation, parliamentary oversight, and the rights to life and health.

• Kenya’s main medical union has threatened industrial action unless the full terms of the agreement are made public within 48 hours.

• The U.S. State Department has pledged $13.5 million toward Kenya’s Ebola preparedness efforts.

• More than 30 members of the U.S. Public Health Service have already traveled to Kenya to staff the facility, according to U.S. officials.

In Brief: More Stories Today

Zambia Burial Dispute Over Edgar Lungu Heads to South African Appeals Court

A South African appeals court has heard arguments in the ongoing dispute over where former Zambian President Edgar Lungu should be buried, nearly a year after his death. Zambia’s government wants his body returned for a state funeral, while his family wants him buried in South Africa, arguing that his widow’s wishes should take precedence and objecting to any role for President Hakainde Hichilema. The court has not said when it will rule.

Sudan Doctors Group Accuses RSF-Linked Forces of Killing 27 Civilians

A Sudanese medical monitoring group says forces affiliated with the Rapid Support Forces killed 27 civilians in villages in North Kordofan during Eid al-Adha celebrations. The group said the attacks targeted areas with no military presence and further worsened an already dire humanitarian situation in a war that has displaced millions and left much of the country in crisis.

U.S. Delivers Military Aid to Niger as Russia’s Influence Grows in the Sahel

The United States has delivered $2.3 million worth of military equipment to Niger, including uniforms, protective gear, and medical supplies, as Washington seeks to maintain influence in the Sahel. The move comes as Russia expands its security partnerships with Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, whose military-led governments have increasingly distanced themselves from Western allies.

Ghana Says It Won’t Seek Another IMF Bailout

Ghana’s finance minister says the country has no plans to seek another IMF bailout after completing its current $3 billion support program. Officials say recent reforms have improved economic stability and that future cooperation with the IMF will focus on policy coordination and investor confidence rather than direct financial assistance.

Tinubu Says Economic Reforms Are Beginning to Deliver Results

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu says his economic reforms have stabilized the economy and boosted investor confidence, despite ongoing pressure from rising living costs. Marking three years in office, Tinubu pointed to record stock market growth, infrastructure projects, increased domestic refining, and new investment as evidence that the reforms are beginning to pay off.