Sudan Paramilitaries Announce Rival Government Amid Escalating Crisis

Two years into Sudan’s brutal civil war, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has announced the formation of a rival government, deepening the country’s humanitarian and political crisis. RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo declared they are building Sudan’s only viable future, pledging nationwide education and healthcare services.

Conflict Continues Despite International Calls for Peace

The announcement coincided with a high-level conference in London marking the conflict’s second anniversary, where UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy urged a “pathway to peace.” Meanwhile, fighting continues with reports of army airstrikes on RSF positions near el-Fasher, displacing hundreds of thousands from the Zamzam refugee camp.

Devastating Humanitarian Toll

The conflict has killed over 150,000 people, displaced more than 12 million, and created famine-like conditions for over 700,000. Both sides face accusations of war crimes, including genocide and mass sexual violence. The African Union has rejected any potential partition of the country.

Nigeria Declares Food Security Emergency

President Bola Tinubu has declared a national emergency on food security, calling for improved irrigation and water management during the 6th African Regional Conference on Irrigation and Drainage in Abuja. Tinubu emphasized Nigeria’s 3.1 million hectares of irrigable land as key to achieving food self-sufficiency.

DR Congo Floods Worsen Humanitarian Crisis

Severe flooding in Tanganyika province has displaced nearly 10,000 people, destroying homes, schools, and crops. The UNHCR warns of a “double crisis” as floods compound existing displacement from conflict, with cholera cases six times higher than last year.

Tanzania’s Opposition Leader Arrested Ahead of Elections

Tanzanian authorities have arrested opposition candidate Tundu Lissu on treason charges, raising concerns about electoral integrity. Human Rights Watch describes the arrest as politically motivated, following patterns of repression seen in previous elections.

Lesotho Approves Starlink Amid Trade Tensions

Lesotho has granted SpaceX’s Starlink a 10-year license despite local opposition, as the country navigates trade tensions with the U.S. The decision comes after temporary relief from steep tariffs imposed on Lesotho’s exports.

UN Demands Reparations for Colonialism and Slavery

The UN Permanent Forum on African Descent has called for urgent action on reparatory justice, emphasizing the lasting impacts of colonialism and slavery. CARICOM representative Hilary Brown proposed a coordinated diplomatic strategy to advance the reparations agenda.

This article summarizes original reporting from AllAfrica. Read the full story for complete details.