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2 senior figures in South Sudan’s main opposition party arrested

Written by kazofm.admin on March 6, 2025. Posted in Africa.

The arrest of Army General Gabriel Duop Lam, a senior figure from South Sudan’s main opposition party has been described as a “grave violation” of the peace deal that ended a five-year civil war according to a spokesperson for the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO). General Lam along with other senior officials affiliated with the SPLM-IO, was detained earlier this week amid escalating tensions in the region.

These officials are allies of Vice-President Riek Machar whose longstanding rift with President Salva Kiir ignited a devastating conflict in 2013. The SPLM-IO spokesperson Puok Both Baluang expressed concerns about the lack of information regarding the whereabouts of the detained officials. “We are doing our best to avoid any escalation to the situation; however, we need our partners in peace to demonstrate the political will to assure that this country will not go back to war,” Baluang stated.

In response, President Kiir maintained that South Sudan would not return to war with government spokesperson Michael Makuei insisting that the arrests were made because the opposition figures were “in conflict with the law.”

Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has faced significant challenges including a civil war that erupted just two years later after Kiir dismissed his cabinet and accused Machar of orchestrating a coup. The conflict resulted in approximately 400,000 deaths and displaced 2.5 million people. A peace agreement reached in 2018 aimed to restore stability but has remained precarious.

General Lam, who oversees the military wing of the SPLM-IO was taken into custody earlier this week while Oil Minister Puot Kang Chol was reportedly seized by security forces during the night. Additionally, Machar’s residence in Juba was briefly surrounded by troops from the South Sudanese army before the situation was de-escalated.

The deteriorating security landscape follows reports that the White Army militia, which allied with Machar during the civil war seized control of a strategic town in Upper Nile state. Accusations have arisen from Kiir’s loyalists, claiming that Machar’s allies are providing support to the rebels.

Baluang asserted that the recent escalation of violence including clashes between the White Army and government troops, “would have been avoided” if the national army’s leadership had adhered to the peace agreement.

Both the United Nations and the African Union have issued warnings that violence in the region could spread and further destabilize the fragile peace. Ter Manyang, director of the Juba-based Center for Peace and Advocacy, emphasized that unless top leadership effectively manages the situation, the country risks sliding back into war.

As South Sudan prepares for its first elections scheduled for 2026 after years of delays, the urgency for a stable political environment has never been greater.

Tshisekedi offers minerals for peace in DRC

Written by kazofm.admin on February 24, 2025. Posted in Africa.

President Felix Tshisekedi in his first interview since the Rwandan-backed M23 armed group seized large portions of territory in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) earlier this year, extended an invitation to the United States and Europe to invest in the country’s vast mineral wealth. This sector which is currently dominated by China is rich in resources critical for global technology and energy including cobalt and coltan.

Congo, viewed as one of the richest countries in terms of natural resources accounts for a significant share of the world’s coltan, essential for smartphones and computers and possesses over half of the world’s cobalt reserves, crucial for electric vehicles. President Tshisekedi sees the potential for major investments to bolster his country’s security and stability amidst ongoing conflict which he likened to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The president criticized existing European negotiations with Rwanda, describing a £935 million agreement that grants access to minerals like tin, tungsten, and gold as “an absolute scandal,” asserting that those minerals are being “plundered” from Congo. The European Union, however, contends that this arrangement will foster better regulation of conflict materials. Recently, the European Parliament called for the suspension of the deal until Rwanda ends its interference in Congo.

The M23 armed group, comprised of approximately 8,000 fighters allegedly backed by Rwanda has killed thousands and captured strategic locations including major cities Goma and Bukavu since launching its offensive earlier this year. In response to the escalating violence, the U.S. imposed sanctions on an M23 spokesman and a Rwandan minister.

From Kinshasa, Tshisekedi expressed frustration about the stalled peace talks, stating he refuses to negotiate directly with M23, which he views as a proxy for the Rwandan military. “M23 is an empty shell,” he said emphasizing that dialogues should be held directly with Rwanda. Rwandan President Paul Kagame has denied any connection to M23 and labeled Tshisekedi’s accusations as a “tired story.”

The situation remains delicate, with the U.S. warning of the risk of a broader regional war, especially following M23’s recent military advances toward Butembo and ambitions reportedly aimed at Kinshasa. Tshisekedi has vowed to reclaim Goma “either through dialogue or military reconquest.”

In light of the crisis, Tshisekedi highlighted that the Trump administration had expressed interest in securing a direct supply of strategic minerals from Congo. He also mentioned potential investments in significant projects, such as a megadam that could become the world’s largest hydroelectric plant, indicating a keenness for international partnerships to bolster his nation amid the ongoing conflict.

Wafula Chebukati, former IEBC Chairman is dead

Written by kazofm.admin on February 21, 2025. Posted in Africa, News.

Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati, the former chairman of Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), has died at the age of 63 after a long battle with a critical illness. He was declared clinically dead at a local hospital leaving his family to grapple with the heartbreaking decision of whether to discontinue life-support measures.

Chebukati’s career was marked by his commitment to electoral integrity and resilience particularly during tumultuous times. Appointed by former President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2017, he oversaw two landmark elections; those of 2017 and 2022 that significantly influenced Kenya’s political landscape. Remarkably, Chebukati became the first IEBC chair to complete a full six-year term retiring in January 2023 amidst challenges that included internal divisions and intense external scrutiny.

In a statement expressing his condolences, President William Ruto described Chebukati as a “principled and diligent leader who served the nation with integrity,” adding, “His death is a great loss to our country. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”

Born in 1961 in Bungoma County, Chebukati held a law degree from the University of Nairobi and earned a Master of Business Administration from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. He practiced law for over three decades, founding Wanyonyi & Company Advocates in 1986 before co-founding Cootow & Associates Advocates in 2006. He stepped away from private practice upon his appointment as IEBC chairman.

Chebukati’s tenure was not without its controversies. He presided over the 2017 presidential election, which was annulled by the Supreme Court, prompting a repeat election. His announcement of William Ruto as the President-elect in 2022 led to dissent within the commission with four commissioners vocally opposing his declaration. Amidst these challenges, he was recognized for his public service with the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH), one of Kenya’s highest civilian honors.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Chebukati was a passionate golfer and held leadership positions at Mombasa and Nyali Golf Clubs as well as serving on the committee of the Kenya Golf Union.

Chebukati’s death is expected to prompt reflections on his legacy in Kenya’s electoral history as the nation considers the progress and obstacles facing its democratic processes. His family, colleagues and the broader community mourn the loss of a leader who tirelessly aimed to uphold the integrity of Kenya’s electoral system.

Kiir dismisses two vice-presidents, spy chief

Written by kazofm.admin on February 11, 2025. Posted in Africa, News.

South Sudan’s President, Salva Kiir has dismissed two of his vice-presidents, the country’s spy chief and several other senior officials. The dismissals were announced through a series of presidential decrees broadcast on state television with no reasons given for the sudden changes.

The affected vice-presidents are James Wani Igga, a veteran politician and general who has held the position since 2013 and Hussein Abdelbagi Akol from the opposition alliance SSOA. Akol has been reassigned as the minister for agriculture replacing Josephine Joseph Lagu, who will now take over as vice-president.

Benjamin Bol Mel, a special presidential envoy and former subject of US sanctions for alleged corruption has been appointed to replace Igga as vice-president. Mel’s appointment has sparked speculation that he may be positioned as a potential successor to Kiir.

The president has also sacked the country’s spy chief, Akec Tong Aleu who had only been in office since October. The position remains vacant with no replacement announced.

The dismissals come as South Sudan struggles to implement the 2018 peace agreement which has been fraught with challenges. The agreement established a power-sharing government with five vice-presidents, including Kiir’s longtime rival, Riek Machar.

The changes have raised questions about the stability of the government and the potential implications for the country’s fragile peace process. The SPLM-In Opposition, led by Machar has not commented on the matter leaving uncertainty about the future of the coalition government.

South Sudan has not held elections since gaining independence in 2011 with the most recent polls postponed multiple times. The country’s leadership has announced that elections will now take place in December 2026 but the delay has raised concerns about the government’s commitment to democratic principles.

Nujoma dies at 95

Written by kazofm.admin on February 9, 2025. Posted in Africa.

Sam Nujoma, the first president of independent Namibia has passed away at the age of 95 in Windhoek. This has been confirmed by the country’s current leader, President Nangolo Mbumba. Nujoma, a pivotal figure in Namibia’s struggle for independence from South African rule, died after spending three weeks hospitalized with an illness.

President Mbumba announced Nujoma’s death with “utmost sorrow and sadness” and praised him as a revolutionary leader who inspired Namibians to reclaim their land. “Our founding father lived a long and consequential life during which he exceptionally served the people of his beloved country,” he stated.

Nujoma played a crucial role in founding the South West Peoples’ Organisation (SWAPO) in the 1960s, which became a central force in Namibia’s liberation movement. He led the nation to independence in 1990 and served as president until 2005 before stepping down as president of the ruling SWAPO party in 2007 after 47 years of leadership.

Tributes have poured in from Namibians who remembered Nujoma fondly as the “father of the nation.” A visibly emotional President Mbumba visited Nujoma’s home to offer condolences to his family including his wife, Kovambo Theopoldine Katjimune who is 91 years old.

Under Nujoma’s guidance, Namibia achieved peace and stability post-independence. His national reconciliation policy played a significant role in encouraging the white community to stay in the country ensuring they remained integral to the economy. He was also a staunch advocate for women’s and children’s rights.

Vice-President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, set to be inaugurated as president in March, lauded Nujoma’s “visionary leadership and dedication to liberation and nation-building” as foundational for Namibia’s current unity and freedom.

Condolences have also come from across Africa, with African Union Commission chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat recognizing Nujoma as “the epitome of courage.” South African President Cyril Ramaphosa hailed Nujoma as an “extraordinary freedom fighter” who not only advanced Namibia’s fight against colonialism but also contributed significantly to the struggle for democracy in South Africa.

Kenya’s President William Ruto described Nujoma as a “visionary leader” committed to the liberation and development of his nation.

Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced as Namibia mourns the loss of its founding leader and national icon.

Over 150 Female Prisoners Raped and Killed Amid Jailbreak

Written by kazofm.admin on February 9, 2025. Posted in Africa.

Over 150 female prisoners in Democratic Republic of Congo’s eastern city of Goma were raped and burned to death during a jailbreak last week. This shocking revelation was confirmed by a spokesperson of the United Nations Human Rights Office, Seif Magango, in an interview with journalist.

According to reports, 165 female inmates were sexually assaulted by escaping male prisoners most tragically losing their lives in a fire set during the chaos of the escape. Magango noted that only between nine and 13 women managed to survive the blaze but all had also been victims of rape.

While the UN has not independently verified these details, Magango stated that the account provided by a judicial source in the DRC is considered credible. The mass escape occurred on January 27, coinciding with intense fighting between the M23 rebel alliance and Congolese government forces over control of Goma. More than 4,000 detainees reportedly fled the Muzenze prison during the incident which has left the facility “completely empty” and in ruins.

DRC communications minister, Patrick Muyaya condemned the horrific acts of violence against the female inmates, calling the situation a “barbaric crime.” He emphasized that the government denounces such acts with the utmost severity.

This tragedy is part of a broader pattern of conflict-related sexual violence that has plagued the DRC for decades. The UN’s Human Rights Office has recently reported other incidents of sexual violence, including allegations that Congolese troops raped 52 women in South Kivu, with some cases involving gang rape.

The international community is calling for urgent action in response to this latest wave of violence. Meanwhile, the M23 rebel group claiming to have captured Goma, has called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire following clashes that have reportedly left nearly 3,000 people dead.

As the DRC faces ongoing turmoil, the need for a comprehensive strategy to address sexual violence and ensure the protection of vulnerable populations remains paramount.

Lifeless bodies fill streets in Goma

Written by kazofm.admin on February 7, 2025. Posted in Africa.

Nearly 3,000 people have been killed in the eastern city of Goma after a violent takeover by rebel forces, revealed the United Nations. The city has been engulfed in fierce fighting between the Congolese army and the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), a rebel coalition that includes the M23 armed group.

Vivian van de Perre, the deputy head of the UN mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo reported that “so far, 2,000 bodies have been collected from the streets of Goma with an additional 900 remaining in local hospitals’ mortuaries.” She emphasized the need for urgent action noting, “There are still many decomposing bodies in certain areas,” and warned that the death toll may continue to rise.

In the wake of the humanitarian crisis, the AFC announced a ceasefire on seeking to address the conflict’s toll on civilians, which they attributed to the Congolese government—referred to by the rebels as the “Kinshasa regime.” However, the government dismissed this ceasefire declaration as a “false communication,” and reports of intense fighting persist particularly in the neighboring South Kivu province.

The Democratic Republic of Congo, home to more than 100 million people has been plagued by violence for decades rooted in ethnic tensions and battles over valuable land and mineral resources. This turmoil has contributed to one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises.

Both Congo and the United States have accused Rwanda of providing support to the M23, which primarily consists of ethnic Tutsis who have been at odds with the Congolese government for over a decade. Rwanda’s government denies these allegations but admits to deploying troops and missile systems in eastern Congo citing national security concerns. President Paul Kagame told journalists on Monday that he was uncertain about the presence of Rwandan forces in Congo but maintained that his country would do what is necessary to protect itself.

Since its revival in 2022, the M23 has reinvigorated its rebellion against the Congolese government seizing significant territory in North Kivu which borders both Rwanda and Uganda. The region is rich in rare minerals like coltan, essential for manufacturing electronics such as smartphones and computers.

As the conflict continues, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that can bring stability and peace to the war-torn region.

Senior ISIL Commander Captured in Somalia

Written by kazofm.admin on February 4, 2025. Posted in Africa.

A senior commander of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) in Somalia has been captured by security forces according to police and state media reports. Abdirahman Shirwac Aw-Saciid, who oversaw the group’s assassination squad surrendered on Monday in the Cal Miskaad mountains of northeastern Puntland as the region intensifies its offensive against ISIL.

The capture of Aw-Saciid, also known by his alias “Laahoor,” comes just two days after U.S. air strikes targeted ISIL leadership in Somalia. His role included not only orchestrating attacks but also extorting local businesses to fund the group’s operations.

In recent years, Somalia’s ISIL branch has gained prominence as a significant part of the group’s global network bolstered by an influx of foreign fighters and enhanced revenue collection. Security analysts have noted a shift in tactics as demonstrated by an attack on a military base in December where ISIL utilized two booby-trapped vehicles.

Abdikadir Jama Dirir, the head of police in Puntland’s Bari region confirmed the arrest emphasizing the focus on disrupting ISIL and its rival, al-Qaeda-linked al-Shabab.

Recent U.S. air strikes have reportedly resulted in significant casualties among ISIL fighters, further degrading their capacity to plan and execute attacks. U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated that the military actions are part of ongoing efforts to contain both ISIL and al-Shabab which holds substantial territory in southern Somalia.

U.S. President Donald Trump praised the air strikes claiming they have eradicated threats posed by ISIL and affirming that no civilians were harmed in the operations. Until recently, ISIL’s influence in Somalia was viewed as relatively minor compared to that of al-Shabab which has dominated security challenges in the region.

Somali authorities continue to grapple with restoring order and security in a nation plagued by more than three decades of civil conflict. The capture of Aw-Saciid represents a crucial step in the ongoing battle against terrorism in Somalia.

Tensions Escalate as Kagame Downplays Rwandan Involvement in DRC Conflict

Written by kazofm.admin on February 4, 2025. Posted in Africa, News.

Rwandan President, Paul Kagame has expressed uncertainty about the presence of Rwandan troops in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) amidst a spiraling conflict involving the M23 armed group. As fighting escalates, more than 900 fatalities have been reported in Goma fueled by the violent clashes between M23 and Congolese forces.

Kagame, a commander-in-chief of the Rwandan Defence Forces, stated, “I don’t know” when asked about Rwandan troop involvement and further emphasized, “There are many things I don’t know.” However, he acknowledged that the situation in Congo poses concerns for Rwanda, asserting, “If you want to ask me, is there a problem in Congo that concerns Rwanda?… I’d say 100%.”

This statement comes amid accusations from the international community suggesting that Rwanda is providing support to the M23 rebels who claim to have captured Goma just last week. According to UN assessments, as many as 4,000 Rwandan soldiers may be assisting the M23, significantly outnumbering the rebel group itself.

M23 spokesperson Victor Tesongo refuted claims of Rwandan support labeling such assertions as a “manipulation of public opinion” and claiming that Rwanda is focused on combating the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) which he alleges poses a security threat to Rwanda by teaming up with the Congolese government.

DRC Communications Minister, Patrick Muyaya countered Kagame’s denial citing numerous confirmations of Rwanda’s military presence by UN officials and regional leaders. “Kagame is the only voice denying this,” he remarked, reflecting the widespread consensus on the matter.

When confronted with comparisons to Russian President Vladimir Putin who has been accused of backing separatist forces in Ukraine, Kagame stated, “There will be so many stories,” and added, “I may be called anything – what can I do about it?” He reiterated Rwanda’s commitment to protect itself from external threats, stating, “Nobody… is going to do it for us.”

The conflict has resulted in significant violence with reports indicating at least 16 casualties in Rwanda due to shelling from the ongoing fighting in Goma. DRC President Félix Tshisekedi has vowed a “vigorous and coordinated response” against the M23 describing the group as Rwanda’s “puppet” in the conflict.

As the M23 vows to expand its control beyond Goma and into other territories including the South Kivu province and even Kinshasa, tensions remain high in a region already fraught with instability. The potential repercussions of this continuing conflict threaten to further destabilize both nations and the surrounding areas.

M23 rebels take control of Goma City, the Capital of North Kivu province in DR-Congo

Written by kazofm.admin on January 27, 2025. Posted in Africa, News.

The M23 rebel group announced early on Monday January 27 that it had captured the city of Goma, the largest in eastern Congo leading to widespread panic among its 2 million residents and prompted a swift condemnation from the Congolese government which labeled the advance as a “declaration of war.”

The rebels issued a statement urging Goma’s residents to remain calm while calling on Congolese military personnel to assemble at the central stadium. The rebel offensive is the latest escalation in one of Africa’s longest-running conflicts, which threatens to displace even more civilians in a region already plagued by instability.

According to a United Nations report, over one-third of North Kivu province’s population is currently displaced and the capture of Goma is likely to exacerbate this humanitarian crisis. As the situation unfolded, UN peacekeepers began processing members of the Congolese military who had surrendered on the city’s outskirts.

Congolese government spokesman, Patrick Muyaya released a video statement calling for civilian protection while acknowledging the precarious situation. He stated, “We are in a war situation where the news is changing.”

During an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council, the special representative for Congo conveyed that with Goma’s airport shut down and roads blocked, “we are trapped.” The UN’s presence in the region has been severely tested with significant casualties among peacekeepers in recent days.

Tensions escalated over the weekend as Congo severed diplomatic relations with Rwanda which it accuses of backing the M23 rebels. Rwanda, however, denies these claims although international experts have corroborated evidence of support. The on-going violence has already led to the deaths of at least 13 peacekeepers prompting urgent calls for a ceasefire from the international community including the United States and France.

In the backdrop, hundreds of Goma residents are fleeing as heavy gunfire echoes across the city. Many are seeking refuge in camps or attempting to cross into Rwanda for safety. Displaced individuals from the Kanyaruchinya camp reported chaotic scenes as they fled from perceived threats of violence.

“I heard that there are bombs in Goma too, so now we don’t know where to go,” lamented Adèle Shimiye, a displaced person anxious about their safety.

The situation remains fluid with fears that if the M23 rebels advance further into Goma, the humanitarian impact on civilians could be catastrophic. U.N. deputy humanitarian chief Joyce Msuya warned that hostilities spilling into the densely populated urban center could lead to devastating consequences for vulnerable populations.

As the Congolese army continues to resist the M23 offensive with support from allied forces including U.N. peacekeepers, the conflict raises grim reminders of previous confrontations, particularly Goma’s turbulent history including the M23’s prior capture in 2012. With tensions at a breaking point, residents like Bahati Jackson choose to remain, saying, “If we’re going to die, it’s better to die here.”