Photo : AP
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : AP
NIGERIA
Shell under scrutiny over Nigeria pipeline pollution
On 03 June, the BBC reported that internal documents disclosed in UK court proceedings indicate Shell continued operating Nigeria’s Nembe Creek Trunk Line despite internal concerns over oil theft, infrastructure failures and environmental risks. Emails and internal assessments reportedly show senior executives had warned as early as 2008 about the consequences of maintaining operations under deteriorating conditions, while a 2012 document classified parts of the pipeline as requiring shutdown or immediate corrective action. Communities in Nigeria’s Niger Delta are seeking USD 1 billion in compensation and environmental cleanup over pollution linked to more than 100 leaks between 2011 and 2013, arguing Shell’s decisions worsened environmental and livelihood losses. Shell maintains that widespread oil theft, sabotage and illegal refining were the principal causes and says it will vigorously defend the case. (“Shell pumped oil through Nigeria pipeline for years despite pollution evidence, documents show,” BBC, 03 June 2026)
KENYA
Protests over Kenya Ebola centre turn deadly
On 03 June, the BBC reported that two people were shot dead in Nanyuki, Kenya, during protests against United States’ plans to establish a 50-bed Ebola isolation facility at the nearby Laikipia Airbase. Demonstrations escalated into road blockades and clashes with security forces, with one victim identified by relatives as 27-year-old Charles Mang’aro Mwangi, who they said was not involved in the protests. The facility is intended to treat US citizens affected by the Ebola outbreak in Democratic Republic of the Congo. President William Ruto defended the agreement with Washington, while a Kenyan court extended a suspension order and requested further disclosure about the project. (“Two people shot dead amid Kenya protests against US Ebola quarantine centre plan,” BBC, 03 June 2026)
SOMALIA
Gunfire in Mogadishu deepens Somalia’s political crisis
On 04 June, Africa News reported that heavy gunfire erupted in Mogadishu near the residence of former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, who accused government forces loyal to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of attacking him ahead of planned anti-government protests. The unrest comes after President Mohamud announced a one-year extension of his term following constitutional changes, a move rejected by opposition groups and regional leaders. Witnesses reported clashes between opposition fighters and police, including the use of rocket-propelled grenades. Former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed condemned the incident and said demonstrations would continue despite rising tensions. (“Mogadishu residents flee as gunfire breaks out near house of former Somali PM,” Africa News, 04 June 2026)
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO
Bunia Airport reopens as Ebola cases fall
On 03 June, Africa News reported that flights resumed at Bunia airport in Ituri Province after authorities overseeing the Ebola response concluded conditions allowed for a gradual and safe reopening. The decision followed a reported decline in suspected Ebola cases from 906 at the end of last week to 116, while official figures showed 321 confirmed cases and 48 deaths in the province. Health measures including mandatory face masks, handwashing and temperature screening remain in place at the airport to limit transmission risks. Passengers described the reopening as easing travel difficulties and restoring confidence that the outbreak is being brought under control. (“DRC's Bunia airport reopens after steep decline in number of suspected Ebola cases,” Africa News, 03 June 2026)
US imposes new sanctions on senior M23 and FDLR leaders
On 03 June, Africa News reported that the United States imposed sanctions on senior figures from the M23 rebel movement and the FDLR militia, targeting intelligence chief John Imani Nzenze and commander Gustave Kubwayo over their alleged roles in sustaining violence in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The measures freeze any US-linked assets and prohibit transactions with the sanctioned individuals. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said persistent armed violence was worsening an already severe humanitarian crisis. Washington also reiterated calls for the Congolese government to dismantle the FDLR and for Rwanda to end any support for M23 and withdraw forces from eastern Congo. (“US imposes fresh sanctions on M23 and FDLR leaders,” Africa News, 03 June 2026)