Africa: Year End Reflections From Abdouraouf Gnon-Konde, UNHCR’s Regional Director for West and Central Africa – Five Recommendations for 2025

SummaryOver 40 people, including children and health workers, were killed in an attack on Al-Mujlad Hospital in Sudan, prompting WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to condemn the violence against health facilities. Amid the ongoing civil war, the UN has deemed the humanitarian crisis in Sudan the worst in the world, with severe impacts on children, including malnutrition and exploitation. Need More Context? 🔎

In 1995, a young Bryan Habana attended his first rugby match, witnessing the Springboks' victory over the All Blacks, which inspired his future career. Habana, who won the World Cup in 2007 and shares the record for most tries in finals, praised the diverse 2019 team led by Siya Kolisi, which resonated with South Africa's population and marked a significant moment in the nation's sporting history. Need More Context? 🔎

Three police officers in Kenya have been charged with the murder of 31-year-old blogger Albert Ojwang, who died in custody after being arrested for allegedly defaming a police chief. Protests erupted following his death, and tensions escalated when street vendor Boniface Kariuki was critically injured by police during demonstrations, prompting calls for accountability and reform against police brutality. Need More Context? 🔎

Celebrations marked the reopening of the border between Ethiopia and Eritrea, allowing families separated for five years due to conflict to reunite in Zalambessa. Organized by local activists, the event symbolized peace and reconciliation amid ongoing economic hardships and infrastructure challenges, with hopes for improved relations between the two nations. Need More Context? 🔎

Nigeria's men's and women's teams have won the inaugural African Flag Football Championship, securing direct qualification for the Flag Football World Championships and targeting the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Vice President of the Nigeria American Football Association, Oluwaseye Obatolu, emphasized the significance of this achievement, marking Nigeria as the first African nation to qualify for the World Championships in this sport. Need More Context? 🔎

EFF Criticism of National Dialogue Costs EFF leader Julius Malema has condemned the government's estimated R700 million expenditure on the National Dialogue, arguing that funds are being squandered on discussions while essential financial support for the youth is overlooked. He emphasizes the need for prioritizing tangible assistance over mere conversations. Need More Context? 🔎