Photo : Al Jazeera/AP
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Al Jazeera/AP
BURKINA FASO
Burkina Faso junta leader Ibrahim Traoré dismisses democracy
On 03 April, BBC reported that Ibrahim Traoré, Burkina Faso’s military leader, declared that democracy “kills” and should be abandoned, arguing it is unsuitable for the country and much of Africa. Speaking in a televised interview, Traoré - who seized power in a 2022 coup - defended extending military rule by five years and banning political parties, describing them as divisive. He promoted an alternative governance model centred on sovereignty, patriotism, and grassroots mobilisation, though without detailing its structure. Referencing instability in Libya after the fall of Muammar Gaddafi, he argued Western-backed democracy often leads to violence. Despite suppressing opposition and civil society, Traoré has gained support for his anti-Western stance. Meanwhile, rights groups warn of worsening abuses, with a Human Rights Watch report citing over 1,800 civilian deaths since 2023, many attributed to state forces. (“Burkina Faso must 'forget' about democracy, military leader says,” BBC, 03 April 2026)
DRC
DR Congo declares end of deadly Mpox outbreak
On 03 April, Africa News reported that the Democratic Republic of Congo has officially declared the end of its two-year mpox outbreak, which infected thousands and caused more than 2,200 deaths. Health Minister Roger Kamba stated that the outbreak is no longer a national emergency following months without new confirmed cases. The country had been the epicentre of the global mpox crisis in 2024, prompting the World Health Organization to declare a global emergency, later lifted in September 2025 as cases declined. Official data recorded over 161,000 suspected cases and more than 37,000 confirmed infections. While most patients recover, the outbreak exposed vulnerabilities in public health systems and highlighted the risks of cross-border transmission of infectious diseases. (“Congo declares end of two-year mpox outbreak that killed over 2,000,” Africa News, 03 April 2026)
SOUTH SUDAN
Aid groups warn of possible war crimes in South Sudan
On 03 April, Africa News reported that humanitarian organisations have raised alarm over escalating abuses in South Sudan, warning that civilians may be facing serious violations of international law. As conditions worsen, millions are struggling to access food, water, and medical care, with aid agencies cautioning that needs are rapidly outpacing available resources. In a joint statement, relief groups described the situation as “deeply alarming,” noting that reported attacks could amount to breaches of International Humanitarian Law and potentially constitute war crimes. Humanitarian actors have called for urgent international action, including increased funding, improved access for aid delivery, and accountability for violations. With the crisis intensifying, concerns are growing over whether the global community can respond swiftly enough to prevent further deterioration and widespread loss of life. (“South Sudan: Aid agencies warn of possible war crimes amid deepening humanitarian crisis,” Africa News, 03 April 2026)