Photo : Al Jazeera
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Al Jazeera
TANZANIA
Tanzania’s President promises reform after deadly post-election violence
On 24 April, Africa News reported that Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan pledged constitutional reforms following post-election violence in Tanzania that left 518 people dead and at least 2000 injured, according to a government commission. The opposition disputed the findings, calling them “an attempt to whitewash the regime’s crimes”. Hassan said the report would guide amendments and announced plans for a reconciliation commission and a criminal investigative body to probe unrest, including disappearances and alleged abductions, with over 200 people still unaccounted for. “Chaos erupted but did not solve our problems,” she said. The violence followed the disputed October 2025 election, which critics said fell short of being free and fair. (“Tanzania vows constitutional reform following post-election bloodshed,” Africa News, 24 April 2026)
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO
Hundreds of Congolese refugees repatriated from Burundi
On 24 April, Africa News reported that hundreds of refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo were voluntarily repatriated from Burundi’s Busuma camp in Buhumuza Province, amid ongoing conflict in eastern Congo. Many cited harsh living conditions, with one returnee saying, “there are diseases…it’s hard to get water and food; it’s a real mess.” The repatriation, organised by the UNHCR, remains strictly voluntary, with officials stressing that only those able to return to relatively secure areas are eligible. The camp hosts tens of thousands displaced by fighting involving the M23, which has driven mass displacement across the region, with over 100,000 refugees in Burundi alone. (“Hundreds of Congolese refugees voluntarily repatriated from Burundi,” Africa News, 24 April 2026)
EQUATORIAL GUINEA
Pope Leo concludes Africa tour
On 24 April, Africa News reported that Pope Leo XIV concluded his first major international tour with an open-air mass in Equatorial Guinea, attended by around 30,000 people. Throughout his 11-day visit across four African nations, the pope called for social justice, respect for human dignity, and better treatment of prisoners, criticising inequality and the exploitation of resources by “tyrants.” His remarks drew criticism from US President Donald Trump, who labelled him “very weak” and “wrong” over his stance on the Iran conflict. The pope dismissed suggestions of a direct response, saying he had no interest in engaging politically. His visit included a stop at the notorious Bata prison, highlighting concerns over human rights and prison conditions in the country. (“Pope Leo departs Equatorial Guinea after wrapping up 11-day trip to Africa,” Africa News, 24 April 2026)
SOUTH AFRICA
US weighs expanding refugee intake for Afrikaners
On 24 April, Africa News reported that the administration of Donald Trump is considering more than doubling the annual refugee admissions cap to prioritise white South Africans, particularly Afrikaners. The proposal would raise the 2026 ceiling from 7500 by up to 10,000 additional places, significantly expanding a programme already largely focused on this group. Trump has claimed Afrikaners face persecution and land dispossession, allegations strongly rejected by the South African government and civil society groups. Data cited in the report shows about 4500 South Africans have already been admitted this fiscal year, compared to just three Afghans. The move has drawn scrutiny, with critics questioning its basis and noting that some admitted individuals have reportedly returned home, raising doubts about claims of widespread persecution. (“Trump administration may expand refugees programme for white South Africans,” Africa News, 24 April 2026)
AFRICA - REGIONAL
Africa faces major fuel shortfall by 2040
On 24 April, Africa News reported that the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) warned that Africa could face an 86 million tonne fuel shortfall by 2040, as reliance on imports deepens. The report highlighted that the continent already imports over 70 per cent of its refined fuel and USD 230 billion worth of essential goods annually, leaving it exposed to disruptions such as the recent crisis around the Strait of Hormuz. Chief economist Rita Babihuga-Nsanze said the Middle East conflict made these vulnerabilities “impossible to ignore”. Speaking in Nairobi, President William Ruto urged reduced dependence on external actors, stating, “We cannot continue to export raw materials and import finished products.” The AFC called for investment in refining capacity and stronger energy infrastructure to address the growing gap. (“Africa faces 86 million tonne fuel shortfall by 2040: finance body,” Africa News, 24 April 2026)