East Africa: Horn of Africa Forum Opens in Djibouti Amid Ethiopia-Somalia Tensions

An Ethiopian official has refuted Donald Trump's claim that the U.S. funded the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (Gerd), asserting it was built without foreign aid and emphasizing its significance to Ethiopia. The dam, Africa's largest hydroelectric plant, has sparked tensions with Egypt and Sudan over water flow concerns, while Ethiopia aims to address its electricity needs as 60% of its population lacks power. Want More Context? 🔎

Six months after M23 rebels captured Goma in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, signs of normalcy are emerging, yet many women bear deep emotional scars from sexual assaults during the conflict with the Congolese army. The BBC's Paul Njie, who first reported from Goma in February, revisits the city to highlight these ongoing issues. Want More Context? 🔎

The UK government plans a 40% cut in foreign aid, primarily affecting children's education and women's health in Africa, as it reallocates funds to defense spending. Despite protecting contributions to multilateral organizations like the World Bank, critics argue marginalized communities, especially women and children, will bear the brunt of these reductions, with significant declines in bilateral support for education and health programs. Want More Context? 🔎

Morocco faced Ghana in a tense Wafcon semi-final, initially struggling but eventually dominating the second half. After a 1-1 draw, Morocco triumphed in penalties, with all their shooters scoring, while Ghana faltered, marking Ghana's sixth knockout loss against host nations; both teams seek their first continental title in the upcoming final. Want More Context? 🔎

Sudan's Kordofan region is a critical battleground in the ongoing war between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), with both sides aiming to control the oil-rich area. Recent attacks have resulted in significant civilian casualties, and the conflict has displaced approximately 12 million people, highlighting the dire humanitarian crisis in the country. Want More Context? 🔎

A Nigerian senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, was denied entry to the National Assembly after being suspended for "unruly and disruptive" behavior, a decision she claims is retaliation for her accusation of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who denies the allegations. Civil society groups are calling for an investigation into her treatment, while Akpabio is challenging a court ruling that ordered her reinstatement, asserting that parliamentary procedures are beyond judicial interference. Want More Context? 🔎