Kenya Extends Somalia Border Closure Amid Security Concerns, Africa Faces Multiple Health Crises
Nairobi, Kenya – Kenyan President William Ruto has confirmed that the country’s border with Somalia will remain closed indefinitely due to escalating instability in the neighboring nation. The decision comes nearly 15 years after Kenya first shut the frontier in response to militant threats.
Speaking at the Africa Champions Summit in Nairobi, Ruto revealed that plans to reopen the crossing in April were scrapped after clashes between Somalia’s national army and regional forces reignited security fears. “The situation has deteriorated, making it unsafe to resume normal operations,” Ruto told France 24.
Kenya initially closed the border in 2011 following a wave of attacks linked to the extremist group Al-Shabaab. The prolonged closure has disrupted trade and movement, but authorities insist the measure remains necessary to prevent cross-border violence.
Ebola Outbreak Spreads in DR Congo
Meanwhile, health officials are scrambling to contain a new Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) confirmed 13 cases in Ituri province, with preliminary tests suggesting a rare non-Zaire strain of the virus.
At least 246 suspected cases and 65 deaths have been reported, primarily in the Mongwalu and Rwampara health zones. Four fatalities have been laboratory-confirmed. Authorities fear further spread due to high population mobility, mining activity, and insecurity in the region.
“The urban setting of Bunia and proximity to Uganda and South Sudan heighten the risk,” an Africa CDC spokesperson warned.
Kagame Condemns “Unfair” Sanctions at Africa CEO Forum
Rwandan President Paul Kagame used the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali to criticize what he called the unjust use of sanctions in global politics. “Sanctions are often about power, not justice,” Kagame said, addressing rising geopolitical tensions.
His remarks came amid scrutiny over Western sanctions affecting Rwanda, including recent U.S. restrictions tied to mineral trade disputes. Other African leaders, including Kenya’s Ruto and Nigeria’s Bola Tinubu, echoed concerns about external pressure on the continent’s economic policies.
Nigeria’s Lassa Fever Death Toll Hits 191
Nigeria is grappling with a worsening Lassa fever outbreak, with fatalities climbing to 191 this year. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reported infections across 23 states, with Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Edo, and Benue accounting for 84% of cases.
“Delayed detection and weak community response are fueling the spread,” the NCDC stated. The agency is collaborating with the WHO, UNICEF, and other partners to bolster surveillance and treatment efforts.
South Africa’s Ramaphosa Fires Minister Over Ethics Scandal
In South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa dismissed Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe after she failed to declare two vehicles donated to the ANC Women’s League, which she leads. Reports indicate the cars were later registered under her children’s names.
Ramaphosa appointed Sindisiwe Chikunga as acting minister pending a permanent replacement. The move underscores the president’s pledge to enforce accountability amid ongoing corruption scandals.
— Reported by Nexio News
