Photo : World Bank
Over 5300 Ebola deaths recorded in DR Congo as CFR crosses 50 per cent
AFRICA - REGIONAL
US excludes South Africa and Rwanda from AGOA trade programme
On 03 November, Africa News reported that the United States Trade Representative had announced plans to exclude South Africa and Rwanda from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) from 01 January, citing practices deemed inconsistent with the programme’s eligibility requirements. AGOA provides eligible sub-Saharan African countries with preferential access to the US market and has been renewed through 2028. South Africa, its largest beneficiary, faces growing tensions with Washington, while Rwanda is under pressure over its alleged support for the M23 rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which Kigali denies. The US recently sanctioned Rwanda’s defence ministry over the allegations. Both countries’ exclusions would take effect following the annual eligibility review, as Washington continues to scrutinise trade, security and foreign policy issues across the region. (“South Africa and Rwanda face exclusion from US-Africa trade deal,” Africa News, 03 November 2026)
EBOLA OUTBREAK
DR Congo Ebola outbreak death toll crosses 5,300 as CFR exceeds 50 per cent
On 03 November, Africa News reported that the death toll from the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo had reached 5,372, with 10,414 confirmed cases recorded as of 30 October, according to official data. The reported case fatality rate stood at 51.6 per cent. Authorities said the increase in deaths reflected a retrospective adjustment of records between local and provincial outbreak teams, rather than a sudden surge. The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo strain, has no known vaccine or specific treatment. The Africa CDC reported that around 80 per cent of new infections were occurring outside monitored chains of transmission. Cases have also been reported in Uganda, Kenya and Nigeria. (“Ebola fatality rate in DR Congo tops 50% as death toll reaches 5,372,” Africa News, 03 November 2026)
SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa holds local elections amid declining ANC support
On 04 November, Africa News reported that South Africans were voting in local elections expected to challenge the African National Congress (ANC), which has experienced declining support over the past decade despite leading the country out of apartheid. The elections will determine leadership across eight major city municipalities, 44 district councils and 205 local councils. Johannesburg is a key battleground, with persistent water, electricity and public-service problems contributing to voter frustration. The city has changed mayors five times in four years and is currently governed by a fragile ANC-led coalition, while the Democratic Alliance seeks to gain control. President Cyril Ramaphosa voted in Johannesburg and praised voter turnout. A total of 546 political parties contested the elections. (“South Africans vote in local elections with ANC missteps in sharp focus,” Africa News, 04 November 2026)
ETHIOPIA
Clashes between Somali and Oromo communities drive 50,000 people into Kenya
On 05 November, Africa News reported that clashes between Ethiopian Somali and Oromo communities over control of the border town of Moyale had driven around 50,000 people into Kenya since 18 October, according to local authorities. At least 11,000 displaced people, mainly women and children, were sheltering in temporary sites, including schools, while others stayed with local families. The Kenyan Red Cross said stray bullets had killed three people and wounded 20 in Kenya. The fighting has strained resources in a Kenyan county where two-thirds of residents live below the poverty line. Analysts warned that Ethiopia’s federal government was neglecting the southern conflict as it focused on renewed fighting in Tigray, contributing to the worsening situation. (“'Fighting won't stop': Ethiopia clashes drive thousands into Kenya,” Africa News, 05 November 2026)
SUDAN
UN warns millions of displaced Sudanese risk losing access to shelter due to funding shortage
On 06 November, Africa News reported that 15.4 million people in Sudan needed emergency shelter and essential household items after more than three years of war, but UN agencies had reached only 900,000 due to funding shortages. The conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces has displaced millions, with around 8.6 million people internally displaced. The International Organization for Migration said its warehouses were now empty after distributing more than 40,000 tents since the start of the year. Only one-third of the USD 179 million required for shelter assistance had been funded. UN agencies warned that damaged homes, high food prices and below-average rainfall were worsening conditions for returning families, while less than half of Sudan’s USD 2.9 billion humanitarian appeal had been funded. (“UN says struggling to help millions fleeing Sudan war find shelter,” Africa News, 06 November 2026)
GABON
China and Gabon agree to deepen cooperation during president’s Beijing visit
On 06 November, Africa News reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed Gabonese President Brice Oligui Nguema to Beijing for a state visit, with both leaders agreeing to strengthen bilateral cooperation across mining, security, trade, education and public health. China pledged to help Gabon develop its natural resources while respecting its sovereignty and supporting Libreville’s National Growth and Development Plan. The leaders also agreed to increase exchanges between their military, law enforcement and security agencies. (“China and Gabon boost ties during Oligui Nguema's state visit to Beijing,” Africa News, 06 November 2026)