Zambia’s in the news for water pollution fears after a Chinese mine spill, highlighting ongoing resource and environmental tensions.
Violet Zulu, a Zambian woman sentenced to seven years for self-managed abortion, was released after international rights groups intervened. Her case highlights barriers to legal abortion in Africa, including lack of access, stigma, and misinformation, with many women facing similar desperate choices.
The US has ended a $367 million health aid deal with Zimbabwe, citing concerns over data sharing, sovereignty, and fairness. Zimbabwe rejected the deal, which aimed to support HIV, TB, and maternal health, citing risks to sovereignty and lack of reciprocal data access. The move follows similar withdrawals in other African countries amid US restructuring of aid policies.
African countries including Ghana, South Africa, and Kenya are confronting reports of their citizens being deceived and recruited to fight for Russia in Ukraine. Despite official denials, evidence suggests thousands have been lured with false promises, with some killed or captured. Governments are working to counter illegal recruitment schemes amid diplomatic tensions.
On March 20, 2026, a drone strike hit Al Deain Teaching Hospital in East Darfur, Sudan, killing 70 people including 13 children, two nurses, and a doctor. The attack injured 146 others and severely damaged the hospital, rendering it non-functional. This marks the 213th attack on healthcare facilities since Sudan's civil war began in April 2023, with over 2,000 fatalities reported.
The US is negotiating health aid deals with African nations that include demands for access to critical minerals and data sharing, causing pushback from countries like Zimbabwe and Zambia. The secrecy and conditions raise concerns about exploitation and sovereignty, with some nations walking away from negotiations.
British International Investment has announced a new strategy to increase private sector investments in Africa, focusing on frontier markets and high-impact sectors. The plan aims to mobilise up to £8 billion, with at least 25% directed to Least Developed Countries, amid declining official aid and rising private capital mobilisation.
Zambia's government has taken custody of former President Edgar Lungu's remains after a South African court ordered their release. The dispute involves conflicting court rulings and Lungu's family wishes, with the government aiming for a state funeral in Zambia. The legal battle highlights ongoing political tensions between Lungu and current President Hichilema.
SNAP participation has declined by about 4.3 million from January 2025 to January 2026. Advocates attribute the drop to tougher eligibility rules and work requirements in the One Big Beautiful Bill, while supporters claim a stronger economy and reduced fraud are responsible. The administration is moving toward tighter controls and reduced federal funding over the next decade, with state programs bearing more cost.