Kenya’s Ruto in the spotlight as Africa’s defense ties and regional security shift unfold amid Kenya’s evolving role. Born 1966, president since Sept 2022; former deputy president (2013).
The UN reports a surge in civilian deaths and war crimes in Sudan's ongoing conflict, with over 11,300 civilians killed in 2025. Human rights violations, including ethnic violence and sexual violence, have intensified amid fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and RSF. Recent sanctions target RSF commanders involved in atrocities.
Heavy rains have triggered flash floods across Kenya, including Nairobi, with at least 42 deaths reported and emergency responders continuing search and rescue. The government is coordinating relief as flights are disrupted and infrastructure is damaged; authorities warn that the situation is likely to deteriorate as more rain is forecast.
Recent heavy rains in Kenya have caused deadly floods, with 81 deaths and thousands displaced. Meanwhile, England's water levels remain stable after a wetter-than-normal winter, but drought warnings persist due to dry March conditions. Authorities in both regions continue monitoring and responding to ongoing weather impacts.
Uchral Nyam-Osor was appointed Mongolia's new prime minister following the resignation of Zandanshatar Gombojav. The change follows weeks of political turmoil, opposition boycotts, and corruption allegations, raising concerns over government stability and foreign investment. Uchral aims to unify the government and stabilize the economy.
The US has issued travel warnings and ordered non-essential staff to leave Nigeria due to escalating violence, terrorism, and kidnapping. Nigeria's government criticizes the advisories as unbalanced, citing ongoing security efforts and progress. The situation remains volatile across many states, with US warnings covering over half of Nigeria's regions.
Security efforts in Haiti have slowed gang advances but remain fragile, with gangs adapting to drone strikes and expanding into remote areas. Meanwhile, Kenya faces rising politically linked gangs targeting leaders and disrupting public order, prompting urgent calls for legislative action and security reforms.
A Cessna 208 Caravan operated by CityLink Aviation Ltd has crashed about 20 kilometers southwest of Juba, killing 15 people on board including 13 South Sudanese and 2 Kenyans. Initial findings point to adverse weather and poor visibility. Investigators have been dispatched to the scene.
Kenya's Sabastian Sawe has become the first man to run a competitive marathon in under two hours, finishing the 2026 London Marathon in 1:59:30. Yomif Kejelcha has also run under two hours. The performance has reshaped the world record, triggered national celebration in Kenya and prompted discussion about shoes, pacing and testing.
France has been pushing a renewed Africa policy at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, aiming for a partnership of equals with English-speaking Africa and more Africa voice in global finance. Paris has signed defense pacts with Kenya and is promoting investments across energy, AI and agriculture as it seeks to reshape its role on the continent.
France, under President Macron, has hosted Africa Forward in Nairobi, presenting a roadmap for deeper Franco-African economic ties. The Nairobi Declaration outlines investments, reform of global financial architecture, and higher African voice in international institutions. Macron and Kenyan President Ruto frame the outcome as a shift toward sovereign, mutually beneficial partnerships.
Uganda has sworn in President Yoweri Museveni for a seventh term after winning the January vote with about 72%. The ceremony at Kololo Independence Grounds signals continuity in leadership, but observers say the election was marred by tensions, internet blackouts, and crackdowns on opposition. Analysts expect ongoing influence over Uganda’s political future and potential questions about succession.
Protests over recent fuel-price hikes have intensified, with multiple cities experiencing unrest as transport operators strike. Authorities report arrests and disruptions to daily life, while officials attribute the rises to global oil market volatility and domestic tax measures.
The nationwide transport strike has been suspended for a week as talks with the government continue after four people were killed and more than 30 injured amid sharp diesel and petrol-price hikes. Authorities have pledged to review diesel pricing and seek measures to curb fuel costs, while transport operators demand deeper reductions and changes to the regulatory framework.