Photo : Reuters
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Reuters
SUDAN
Human Rights Watch alleges that UAE aided RSF via Colombian mercenaries
On 26 May, the BBC reported that Human Rights Watch alleged that Colombian mercenaries were recruited through a UAE-based company and transported via Emirati military facilities to support Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) during the ongoing civil war. The report claimed former Colombian soldiers were trained at bases in the United Arab Emirates before being deployed to Darfur as drone operators, artillerymen and trainers primarily through Libya, Chad and Somalia. HRW linked the fighters to areas where atrocities, including killings and sexual violence, were allegedly committed by RSF forces, particularly in El-Fasher. The UAE denied the allegations, saying it does not allow recruitment or training of foreign fighters on its territory. Sudan’s conflict, which began in April 2023, has killed over 150,000 people and displaced millions. (“Rights group accuses UAE of being transit point for mercenaries on way to Sudan,” BBC, 26 May 2026)
SOUTH AFRICA
Ghana begins repatriating citizens from South Africa
On 27 May, the BBC reported that Ghana had begun repatriating citizens from South Africa amid growing fears of xenophobic violence linked to anti-immigration protests. Ghanaian authorities said around 800 citizens had registered for repatriation, with the first 300 departing from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo airport. Many cited fears over escalating demonstrations targeting undocumented migrants, organised by a group called March and March, which has demanded illegal immigrants leave South Africa by June 30. Ghana’s High Commissioner Benjamin Quashie said the government acted after citizens reported feeling unsafe and economically stranded. South African authorities have condemned attacks on foreigners while acknowledging concerns surrounding illegal immigration ahead of local elections later this year. (“First Ghanaians set to be repatriated from South Africa over anti-immigrant protests,” BBC, 27 May 2026)
Ramaphosa mounts legal challenge against impeachment report
On 26 May, the BBC reported that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa had launched a legal challenge against a parliamentary report that could reopen impeachment proceedings linked to the “Farmgate” scandal. The case centres on the alleged theft of USD 580,000 hidden in furniture at Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala farm in 2020. An independent panel in 2022 found he may have violated the constitution and committed serious misconduct, allegations he denies. Ramaphosa argued in court filings that the panel misunderstood its mandate and misinterpreted the charges against him. The challenge comes after South Africa’s Constitutional Court ruled parliament acted unconstitutionally when it previously voted against establishing an impeachment inquiry into the scandal. (“South African president mounts legal challenge against report that could lead to impeachment,” BBC, 26 May)
EBOLA OUTBREAK
Rwanda border curbs deepen economic struggles in South Kivu
On 26 May, Africa News reported that traders and residents in Bukavu in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, were warning of worsening shortages after Rwanda imposed border restrictions to contain the Ebola outbreak. Rwanda has barred entry to foreign nationals who recently travelled through the DRC and imposed quarantine rules on returning citizens. Traders in South Kivu said the measures had disrupted cross-border commerce, emptied warehouses and heightened fears of famine in areas already affected by conflict involving the M23. Health authorities defended the restrictions as necessary amid the spread of the rare Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, which has killed more than 220 people and infected over 900 suspected cases in the DRC. (“Traders in eastern Congo warn of shortages due to Rwanda border measures,” Africa News, 26 May 2026)
Uganda steps up Ebola response
On 27 May, Africa News reported that Uganda had intensified health screening and containment measures in Kampala after confirming two new Ebola cases, bringing the country’s total infections to seven since the outbreak was declared on 15 May. The latest patients, both healthcare workers at a private facility in Kampala, were admitted to a treatment unit as authorities launched contact tracing efforts. Screening procedures have been strengthened at hospitals and public spaces, while some residents called for tighter border controls with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the epicenter of the outbreak. (“Uganda steps up Ebola response as new cases raise concern in Kampala,” Africa News, 27 May 2026)