Photo : BBC
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : BBC
UGANDA
Four children killed in knife attack at Kampala kindergarten
On 08 April, Africa News reported that four young children were killed in a knife attack at a kindergarten in Kampala. Police identified the suspect as a 39-year-old man who allegedly gained access to the facility by posing as a parent before launching the attack on children aged between two and three. The incident occurred at a daycare centre in Makindye Division, where the attacker reportedly locked the gate and carried out the assault. Angry residents attempted to lynch the suspect as he fled, but security forces intervened and arrested him. Authorities said the motive remains unclear and investigations are ongoing. The attack has shocked the local community, with distress among parents and heightened concerns over safety in early childhood institutions across Uganda. (“Uganda: Four children killed in knife attack at Kampala kindergarten,” Africa News, 08 April 2026)
ANGOLA
Floods kill dozens in Angola amid heavy rains
On 08 April, Africa News reported that at least 40 people have been killed by torrential rains and flooding in Angola, with several others still missing. The downpours triggered flash floods in the capital, Luanda, and the coastal city of Benguela, submerging streets and destroying homes. Authorities said thousands of properties were flooded and more than 51,000 people were affected, with hundreds of houses damaged or destroyed. Emergency teams have been deployed to assist with drainage operations and distribute essential supplies, including food and clean water. While conditions are gradually improving, officials warn that seasonal rains continue to pose risks. Scientists also highlight that climate change is intensifying extreme weather events, increasing both their frequency and impact across vulnerable regions. (“Floods kill dozens as heavy rains hit Angola,” Africa News, 08 April 2026)
NIGERIA
Dozens killed in coordinated attacks in Northwest Nigeria
On 08 April, Africa News reported that at least 60 people were killed in a series of attacks across villages in northwest Nigeria, highlighting worsening insecurity in the region. The violence, which struck parts of Kebbi State and Niger State, involved heavily armed groups described as bandits and jihadist fighters. Villages were reportedly burned, civilians killed indiscriminately, and hundreds displaced, with many seeking refuge in churches and schools. Authorities linked some attacks to a local armed group associated with Ansaru, which has ties to Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb. The assaults underscore a growing convergence between criminal banditry and extremist violence in northern Nigeria, complicating security responses and deepening the humanitarian crisis as communities remain vulnerable to repeated attacks. (“Gunmen kill 60 in northwest Nigeria, locals and humanitarian groups say,” Africa News, 08 April 2026)