Clashes with M23 rebels near Goma intensify, claiming the lives of peacekeepers and foreign soldiers amid a worsening humanitarian crisis.

Fighting in eastern Congo with the M23 rebel group has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 peacekeepers and foreign soldiers, according to United Nations and Congolese army officials. The violence near Goma, a city of approximately 2 million people and a critical hub for regional security and humanitarian efforts, has intensified, prompting the UN Security Council to advance an emergency meeting from Monday to Sunday at Congo’s request.

Congo’s army reported that it, alongside allied forces—including United Nations peacekeepers and troops from the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC)—successfully repelled an M23 offensive aimed at Goma. However, the clashes highlight the increasing risks to civilians and international personnel in the region.

The M23 rebel group, comprised mainly of ethnic Tutsis who defected from the Congolese army over a decade ago, has made substantial territorial gains in recent weeks. Amnesty International’s Kate Hixon suggested that M23 is exploiting the current U.S. presidential transition to escalate its actions, further endangering thousands of civilians.

Congo and United Nations experts have repeatedly accused Rwanda of backing M23, claims that Kigali denies. However, Rwanda has admitted to deploying troops and missile systems in eastern Congo, citing security concerns. UN estimates indicate that up to 4,000 Rwandan troops are operating in the region.

The recent violence has taken a heavy toll on peacekeeping forces. Among the casualties are two South African peacekeepers, a Uruguayan Blue Helmet, and three Malawian peacekeepers. Seven additional South African soldiers with SAMIDRC were killed in the last two days, South Africa’s defense department confirmed. Uruguay identified its fallen soldier as Rodolfo Alvarez, part of a battalion tasked with fulfilling the UN mandate and ensuring the evacuation of non-essential personnel from Goma.

Burning wreckage of UN-marked vehicles was visible along the road between Goma and Sake, where much of the recent fighting has concentrated. South African Defense Minister Angie Motshekga, who was visiting the country’s troops stationed in Congo on the day of the attacks, called the deaths a “tragedy” and vowed to assess measures to improve troop safety.

The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo, known as MONUSCO, has been active for over two decades and maintains approximately 14,000 personnel on the ground. Despite its presence, the M23 insurgency remains a significant challenge, threatening not only regional stability but also the safety of peacekeepers and civilians.

The situation underscores the urgency for a coordinated international response. The emergency UN meeting on Sunday will address the escalating violence and explore measures to prevent further destabilization near Goma. As the conflict continues, concerns grow for the millions of civilians caught in the crossfire and the peacekeepers tasked with protecting them.

High-ranking officials from Somalia and Somaliland attend celebrations in Ethiopia, highlighting cross-border engagement.

Delegations from Somalia’s Federal Government and the self-declared independent region of Somaliland traveled to Jigjiga, Ethiopia, on Thursday to participate in the anniversary celebrations of the Somali Regional State. The annual event, commemorating the region’s establishment in 1993, brought together officials, dignitaries, and members of the Somali diaspora.

Somalia’s Delegation
The Federal Government of Somalia’s delegation included Deputy Minister of Information Abdirahman Yusuf Al-Adala and Deputy Minister of Petroleum. Somali Regional State officials warmly welcomed the delegation upon their arrival at Garaad Wiil-Waal Airport in Jigjiga.

Somaliland’s Delegation
Representing Somaliland, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Ali Hamud Jibriil and Minister of Environment and Climate Change Abdullahi Jama led the delegation. They were received in the border town of Wajaale before making their way to Jigjiga for the celebrations.

About the Somali Regional State
The Somali Regional State, one of Ethiopia’s federal regions, was established in 1993 with its original capital in Godey. It later moved its administrative center to Jigjiga, which has since become a hub for political and cultural activities in the region. The anniversary celebration on January 23 serves as a platform to showcase the region’s progress and foster connections among Somalis from Ethiopia, Somalia, Somaliland, and the diaspora.

Significance of the Event
The presence of delegations from both Somalia and Somaliland at the celebration highlights shared cultural and historical ties, despite the political divisions between the two regions. The event serves as an opportunity for cross-border dialogue and underscores the importance of cooperation in the Horn of Africa.

As Jigjiga continues to grow as a regional hub, such events foster goodwill and collaboration among the Somali communities in Ethiopia and beyond. The anniversary remains a significant occasion for celebrating unity, heritage, and the progress of the Somali Regional State.

As Trump’s second term begins, Keir Starmer’s government faces seismic challenges in maintaining U.S.-U.K. ties amid global uncertainty.

As Donald Trump begins his second term as U.S. president, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government is confronting a series of challenges that could reshape the “special relationship” between the two nations. With Trump’s isolationist policies, unpredictable diplomacy, and potential shifts in NATO, Ukraine, and global trade, Britain finds itself on uncertain footing.

Trump’s aggressive tariff policies remain a top concern for Britain, with threats of up to 20% tariffs globally and 60% for China looming large. These measures could disrupt U.K. exports and increase the cost of living. Starmer’s government is keen to explore carve-outs to protect British industries, especially as it seeks to rebuild ties with the European Union while deepening U.S. relations.

A U.S.-U.K. free trade deal—promised as a Brexit dividend—remains elusive. Successive governments, including Boris Johnson’s, failed to secure one during Trump’s first term or Biden’s presidency. Starmer now hopes to restart federal-level trade talks within weeks, aiming for progress where others have faltered.

Britain has been a steadfast supporter of Ukraine since Russia’s invasion in 2022, but Trump’s ambiguous stance on NATO and perceived affinity for Vladimir Putin could complicate matters. There is growing concern in London that Trump might broker a peace deal favoring Russia, potentially emboldening Putin.

Starmer has doubled down on Britain’s support for Ukraine, even hinting at deploying U.K. troops to enforce a potential peace agreement. However, Trump’s position could shift European solidarity, forcing Britain to navigate a delicate diplomatic path.

Starmer’s nomination of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the U.S. has sparked controversy, with Trump’s allies reportedly skeptical of the Labour veteran’s ties to the EU and China. Nigel Farage, a Trump ally, has publicly campaigned for the role, adding to tensions. Downing Street remains firm, with officials describing Mandelson as an “excellent candidate” who will serve the national interest.

Trump’s second term also forces Britain to reconcile past antagonisms. Starmer’s team has made overtures to repair relations, with Foreign Secretary David Lammy leading the charge despite his previous harsh critiques of Trump. Lammy recently praised Trump’s hospitality and warmth toward the U.K., signaling an effort to rebuild bridges.

A potential White House visit by Starmer in the coming weeks could test whether this diplomatic charm offensive will pay off, especially as Britain seeks to solidify its relevance in Trump’s “America First” world.

The fate of the Chagos Archipelago presents another challenge. Under Biden, Britain negotiated a deal to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius while maintaining the critical Diego Garcia airbase. However, Trump’s allies, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have cast doubt on the agreement, citing national security concerns about China.

With Trump now back in the Oval Office, Britain’s hopes hinge on Pentagon and State Department assessments to secure his approval. The outcome of this negotiation could significantly impact U.K.-U.S. defense cooperation.

As Trump’s second term takes shape, the U.K. faces a turbulent diplomatic landscape. Balancing trade ambitions, NATO commitments, and the “special relationship” requires deft political maneuvering. Starmer’s government must navigate Trump’s unpredictable leadership while ensuring Britain remains a critical U.S. partner on the global stage.

Whether Starmer can leverage Trump’s presidency to achieve these goals remains uncertain, but the stakes for Britain’s economy, security, and international standing could not be higher. The weeks ahead will reveal whether this renewed partnership strengthens—or fractures further.

Kenya leads efforts to foster regional security and counter-terrorism collaboration in the Horn of Africa.

President William Ruto has reiterated the importance of regional collaboration in addressing terrorism and organized crime, urging countries in the Horn of Africa to join forces in a collective fight against insecurity. During a meeting with Ethiopia’s Director General of the National Intelligence Security Service, Ambassador Redwan Hussien, at State House in Nairobi, Ruto highlighted Kenya’s proactive commitment to ensuring stability across the East African Community (EAC) and beyond.

The persistent threat posed by the Somalia-based Al-Shabaab militant group underscores the urgency of Ruto’s call. The group has orchestrated devastating attacks across the region, including the 2013 Westgate Mall siege in Nairobi and the 2015 Garissa University massacre. Uganda, too, has faced Al-Shabaab’s wrath, most notably in the 2010 Kampala bombings that killed 74 people. These incidents have destabilized communities, disrupted economies, and shaken regional governance.

Regional Cooperation: A Strategic Imperative

Kenya has been at the forefront of counter-terrorism efforts, deploying troops to Somalia under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and bolstering border security. Ruto’s meeting with Ethiopia’s Ambassador Hussien reflects an effort to strengthen intelligence-sharing and counter-terrorism strategies with key regional partners. Ethiopia’s proximity to Somalia and its geopolitical role in the Horn of Africa make it a vital ally in combating extremist threats.

Ruto’s proposed unified strategy focuses on enhanced intelligence-sharing, joint security training, and economic initiatives to address underlying causes of radicalization, such as poverty and unemployment. This holistic approach aims to dismantle the operational networks of groups like Al-Shabaab while preventing future recruitment through sustainable development.

Kenya’s Global Vision

Kenya’s commitment to regional and global partnerships aligns with its foreign policy agenda of fostering peace and stability in Africa. Ruto’s emphasis on a secure and thriving region reflects a vision where regional unity transcends individual national interests, creating a cohesive front against shared threats.

As President Ruto succinctly put it, “Peace is non-negotiable. We owe it to our people to create a secure environment where they can thrive.” With enhanced collaboration, East Africa stands poised to make meaningful progress in overcoming terrorism and ensuring long-term stability.

Creative industries in East Africa invited to connect with Australia for joint arts and cultural projects in 2025.

Australia is deepening its cultural ties with East Africa through an innovative initiative by the Australian High Commission in Kenya. This program, which targets arts and creative organizations across Kenya, Tanzania, Somalia, Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi, underscores the growing importance of cultural diplomacy as a bridge for international collaboration.

The initiative, which will run between February and July 2025, is not merely a funding exercise but a unique partnership model. Organizations from East Africa are invited to co-develop projects with Australian creative institutions, allowing for meaningful cultural exchange. While up to AUD 7,000 (approximately USD 4,350) in support is available, the emphasis is on building enduring relationships and showcasing shared cultural narratives.

A Shift from Traditional Aid to Collaborative Partnership

This call reflects a shift from grant-based support to partnership-driven engagement. The program’s intent is to co-create initiatives that blend Australia’s dynamic creative scene with East Africa’s rich cultural heritage. By fostering joint performances, exhibitions, podcasts, and outreach projects, the program aspires to cultivate mutual respect and understanding through shared artistic endeavors.

Such collaboration not only provides opportunities for East African organizations to tap into Australia’s established cultural infrastructure but also offers Australian artists and creatives the chance to explore the diverse artistic traditions of East Africa.

Strengthening Regional Connectivity

One of the standout elements of the initiative is its encouragement of regional collaborations within East Africa. Programs that connect multiple East African nations are especially encouraged, fostering intra-regional solidarity alongside engagement with Australia. This approach could create a lasting legacy of collaboration, with the potential to amplify regional voices on the global stage.

A Broader Implication for Cultural Diplomacy

Cultural diplomacy has emerged as a critical tool for strengthening bilateral ties beyond economic and political spheres. Australia’s approach to fostering cultural connections in East Africa signals an acknowledgment of the power of creative industries in shaping global narratives and relationships.

For East Africa, the initiative presents an opportunity to gain international visibility for its artistic heritage, while for Australia, it offers a chance to diversify and enrich its cultural exchanges with the Global South.

Conclusion:

The Australian High Commission’s initiative is an ambitious and forward-thinking effort to bridge continents through art and culture. By prioritizing partnerships over mere financial aid, this program has the potential to redefine the nature of cultural exchange in the region. With the application deadline fast approaching on January 22, 2025, creative organizations across East Africa have a unique chance to collaborate with one of the world’s most vibrant cultural hubs.

For more details, visit the Australian High Commission’s website or contact their offices directly.

WHO reports deadly viral disease in Tanzania, warns of potential spread amid limited surveillance in remote regions.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a suspected outbreak of Marburg virus disease in northern Tanzania, with eight confirmed fatalities out of nine identified cases. This marks a significant public health threat in the region, with the potential for more cases to emerge as surveillance efforts intensify.

Understanding Marburg Virus

Marburg virus is a highly virulent pathogen originating in fruit bats and shares similarities with Ebola. It spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals, contaminated surfaces, or infected animals. The disease can be fatal in up to 88% of cases, particularly in the absence of medical intervention.

Symptoms of Marburg include fever, severe muscle pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and, in advanced cases, extreme blood loss that can lead to death. There are no approved vaccines or treatments for the virus, making prevention and early detection critical in controlling its spread.

The Current Outbreak

According to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the outbreak is concentrated in a remote area of northern Tanzania. The organization anticipates additional cases as disease monitoring and reporting improve.

This outbreak follows a series of recent Marburg cases in East Africa, including a deadly incident in Rwanda that concluded in December 2024, resulting in 15 deaths and 66 reported cases. A separate outbreak in Kagera, Tanzania, in 2023 claimed at least five lives.

Risk Assessment

The WHO has classified the outbreak as a high-risk event at national and regional levels, though it considers the global risk to remain low. The lack of immediate comment from Tanzanian health authorities highlights challenges in coordinating and disseminating public health information in remote areas.

The high fatality rate and lack of treatment options underscore the urgent need for containment measures. Effective strategies include isolating suspected cases, enhancing surveillance, and providing personal protective equipment (PPE) to healthcare workers.

Regional Context and Challenges

The suspected outbreak in Tanzania occurs against the backdrop of regional vulnerabilities in East Africa. Cross-border movement between Tanzania and Rwanda, where recent outbreaks occurred, increases the risk of spread. Rural healthcare infrastructure and delayed responses further complicate containment efforts.

Healthcare workers are particularly at risk. In the Rwandan outbreak, a significant proportion of cases involved medical personnel exposed during the early stages of the epidemic. This underscores the need for robust infection control protocols and training.

While the global risk remains low, the outbreak highlights the persistent threat posed by zoonotic diseases, which can jump from animals to humans. The recurrence of Marburg outbreaks emphasizes the importance of global health surveillance and preparedness.

The suspected Marburg outbreak in northern Tanzania demands swift and coordinated action to prevent further loss of life and regional spread. Strengthened disease surveillance, community education, and international support will be essential in managing this public health crisis.

As the world continues to battle emerging infectious diseases, this outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in global health systems and the importance of proactive measures to detect and control deadly pathogens.

Somali community members in Los Angeles face health risks and economic losses as raging wildfires devastate the region.

The catastrophic wildfires raging across Los Angeles have inflicted enormous damage, with at least 24 lives lost, 16 individuals missing, and tens of thousands of acres consumed by flames. Among the hardest-hit are small business owners, including members of the Somali community, who are grappling with health hazards, disrupted commerce, and an uncertain path to recovery.

In Inglewood, a southern Los Angeles neighborhood, Somali restaurant owner Hussein Mohamud Bulow described the disaster’s impact on his livelihood. “The area is unrecognizable. The fires have brought chaos, fear, and economic disaster,” Bulow told the BBC Somali Service.

Although the Somali population in Los Angeles is modest—estimated at fewer than 300 families—their businesses serve as vital cultural hubs. However, the fires’ toxic smoke and ash have driven residents away, leaving these establishments empty. “The debris in the air makes it unsafe to gather. It’s affecting both our health and our livelihoods,” Bulow explained.

As firefighters from across North America battle the infernos, the challenges are immense. The Palisades fire, the most destructive, has devoured over 23,000 acres and remains only 11% contained. Other blazes, including the Eaton fire (14,000 acres) and the smaller Hurst fire (799 acres), have wreaked havoc on communities, adding to the strain on emergency responders.

The financial toll is staggering, with damages estimated between $250 billion and $275 billion, placing these wildfires among the most costly disasters in U.S. history. For Somali business owners like Bulow, the path forward is fraught with uncertainty. The dual challenges of health risks and economic instability have compounded fears for the future.

“We fear for our health and livelihoods,” Bulow said. “The fires have disrupted everything, and rebuilding will take time.”

As the fires continue to burn, the Somali community in Los Angeles, like many others, remains resilient yet braced for a long and challenging recovery.

Opposition leaders criticize President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration for selling public lands, calling it unconstitutional and a betrayal of vulnerable communities.

Opposition leaders in Somalia, including former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, and MP Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame, have issued a scathing denunciation of what they describe as the illegal auctioning of public lands by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration.

In a joint statement, the opposition leaders accused the government of flagrantly breaching constitutional and legal provisions designed to safeguard public assets. They criticized the administration for enabling forced evictions in Mogadishu, displacing vulnerable communities and internally displaced persons (IDPs) to facilitate land sales to wealthy businessmen.

Reports suggest that proceeds from these sales are being funneled directly to President Hassan Sheikh and his immediate family, including his wives and children. Key sites affected include former military camps, public cemeteries, schools, and abandoned government ministry buildings, leaving displaced residents in increasingly precarious conditions.

The leaders urged the Somali public to resist attempts to privatize public assets unlawfully and called for stricter enforcement of legal protections. They demanded accountability from the administration and warned that failure to address these grievances could deepen public distrust and exacerbate socio-economic inequalities.

The statement signals a growing divide in Somalia’s political landscape, underscoring the critical need for transparency, adherence to legal standards, and protection of vulnerable communities as the country navigates its path forward.