Photo : Reuters
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Reuters
EBOLA OUTBREAK
Deaths in DRC top 220 as attacks on health centers intensify
On 25 May, the BBC reported that police in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo fired warning shots after angry crowds attempted to reclaim the bodies of relatives who had died at an Ebola treatment centre in Mongwalu, reflecting growing distrust toward health authorities and safe burial procedures. The unrest followed earlier attacks on Ebola facilities, including the burning of isolation tents, as officials warned that mishandling bodies could accelerate transmission of the virus. The outbreak has surpassed 900 suspected cases and 220 suspected deaths, while Uganda confirmed additional infections and African health authorities intensified regional coordination efforts, warning that several neighbouring countries remain at risk of further spread. (“Police fire shots in air to disperse angry crowds at DR Congo Ebola treatment centre,” BBC, 25 May 2026)
WHO, Africa CDC launch USD 319 million Ebola response plan across Africa
On 25 May, Africa News reported that the World Health Organization (WHO) and Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched a six-month, USD 319 million Ebola response strategy covering all 55 African Union member states to contain the outbreak centered in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. Of the total funding, USD 265 million will support response efforts in the two affected countries while USD 54 million is allocated for preparedness in 10 high-risk countries. As authorities intensified hygiene measures in eastern DRC, including market disinfection campaigns and preventive measures in churches, health workers continued to face resistance, with attacks on treatment centres and attempts by residents to retrieve bodies from hospitals. (“WHO, Africa CDC adopt Ebola response plan as DR Congo steps up hygiene measures,” Africa News, 25 May 2026)
BENIN
Niger PM’s visit to Benin signals possible easing of regional tensions
On 25 May, Africa News reported that Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine’s attendance at the inauguration of Benin’s new president, Romuald Wadagni, signalled a possible reopening of dialogue between the two countries after months of strained relations following Niger’s 2023 coup. Zeine’s visit to Cotonou was widely viewed as a gesture of détente amid deteriorating ties marked by border disputes and diverging regional alignments. During his inauguration speech, Wadagni pledged to prioritise regional cooperation and stability, while both leaders highlighted the need for stronger ties at a time of growing security threats and economic pressures across West Africa. (“Benin-Niger relations show signs of thaw as Wadagni takes office,” Africa News, 25 May 2026)