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A 21-day-old infant has tested positive for mpox in Moyale town, near the Kenyan border, the Ethiopian Ministry of Health and Public Health Institute said in a joint statement.

Noting that subsequent testing also confirmed that the child’s mother is infected with the virus, the ministry said the child and his mother have been placed in quarantine.

According to the ministry, both the child and his mother have not suffered any serious health problems so far and are currently in stable condition. It said coordinated efforts are underway to trace the source of the infection.

As Ethiopia becomes the latest African country to report a mpox case, the total number of affected countries on the continent since the start of last year has now reached 26, according to the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

The ministry said that since the onset of the mpox outbreak in Africa, it has implemented a series of coordinated measures aimed at preventing the virus from entering the East African nation, while also establishing strategies to control its spread should it enter the country. It said an emergency coordination center has been established at the Public Health Institute to facilitate such efforts.

“The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, wishes to emphasize its commitment to enhancing ongoing measures aimed at preventing and controlling the spread of the disease,” it said. The ministry also urged anyone who has come into contact with individuals infected with the virus, as well as those exhibiting symptoms of mpox, to promptly seek appropriate medical care.

Given that the virus has been reported only in a confined area, the ministry said the public should remain calm and maintain their usual daily routines while adhering to safety protocols outlined by health authorities.

On Thursday, the Africa CDC announced that 25 mpox-affected African countries had reported more than 130,000 cases since the start of last year. Of these, 31,745 were confirmed, and about 1,774 related deaths were recorded.

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, was first detected in laboratory monkeys in 1958. It is a rare viral disease transmitted through body fluids, respiratory droplets and contaminated materials. The infection often causes fever, rash and swollen lymph nodes.

A 21-day-old infant has tested positive for mpox in Moyale town, near the Kenyan border, the Ethiopian Ministry of Health and Public Health Institute said in a joint statement.

Xinhua

Speaking during a press conference in Goma on Sunday, May 25, 2025, M23 President Bertrand Bisimwa criticised Burundi’s military involvement in eastern DRC, saying that Burundian troops are operating alongside Congolese forces and enabling FDLR fighters near the border region to kill innocent civilians.

'Burundi is fighting us alongside the Congolese government. Along the border with the DRC, they’re hosting and enabling another enemy—the FDLR,' Bisimwa said.

'There are many FDLR fighters in that area, where they’re organising to attack us. That’s where the threats are coming from.'

According to Bisimwa, the Congolese government is also conducting drone strikes in the region, guided by its intelligence operatives, which have resulted in further civilian casualties.

While expressing no hostility toward the Burundian population, Bisimwa condemned what he described as the Burundian leadership’s role in the conflict.

'We have no problem with the Burundian people—they’re our brothers,' he said. 'But their leaders are using the army to kill Congolese civilians, and we can’t support such a government.'

The M23 leader called for the withdrawal of Burundian troops, citing the recent move by SADC forces to exit Congo as an example to follow.

'All we’re asking is for them to leave our land… Just like the SADC forces who withdrew, they should do the same and return to Burundi,' he said, warning that the rebels have nothing to lose in their “fight for survival.”

Bisimwa also disclosed to members of the press that he had met with Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye before the country joined the conflict. According to him, the Burundian leader acknowledged similarities between M23’s struggle and the historic rebellion that brought his own CNDD-FDD party to power.

'I explained our situation, and he told me our struggle reminded him of what CNDD-FDD went through. He said it was the same injustice that led them to take up arms,' Bisimwa recalled. 'So why is he now doing to us what he once fought against?'

Bisimwa, while defending what he described as the rebels’ and marginalised communities’ struggle, revisited the political histories of Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi, noting that their current governments came to power through armed struggles against marginalisation.

He cited remarks by Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, who once warned that those excluded today could rise to power tomorrow.

“President Museveni once said in Kinshasa that he and President Kagame came to power by fighting marginalisation. He warned that those who are excluded today could be the ones to topple you tomorrow,” he stated.

“That’s the message we’re sending to Kinshasa. They know it, and I’m simply reminding them. To Burundi, I want to say this: when people are oppressed, they have nothing to lose. They fight with everything they have to survive and stay safe. And that’s exactly what we’re doing,” he added.

M23, which positions itself as fighting against poor governance and the marginalisation of Kinyarwanda-speaking communities in eastern DRC, currently controls large swathes of territory in the region.

Efforts led by Qatar and the African Union to resolve the conflict diplomatically are ongoing, but the rebel group accuses the Kinshasa administration of lacking commitment to that path.

Addressing a press conference in Goma on Sunday, May 25, 2025, M23 President Bertrand Bisimwa criticised Burundi’s military involvement in eastern DRC, saying that Burundian troops are operating alongside Congolese forces and enabling FDLR fighters near the border region to kill innocent civilians.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The announcement was made on Monday morning via a statement shared on X by the movement’s coordinator, Corneille Nangaa, marking a significant political moment in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Kabila’s return to the eastern city comes after an extended period abroad, primarily spent in South Africa and Zimbabwe, where he lived in forced exile.

According to AFC/M23, his decision to return via Goma is being seen as both symbolic and strategic.

'The return of this prominent political figure is warmly received. He made the right choice by coming back rather than remaining in forced exile,' the statement read.

AFC/M23 emphasised that Goma is currently the only part of the country free from political persecution, arbitrary arrests, hate speech, and tribal discrimination.

Since February, the movement claims Goma has hosted delegations from diverse backgrounds, including a joint mission from the Church of Christ in Congo (ECC) and the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO), which AFC/M23 says blessed the peace efforts under their control.

The group also positioned Goma as a safe haven for political actors who wish to operate freely.

'The gates of Goma—which are also the gates of Congo—are wide open to all compatriots who wish to carry out political activities in a republican spirit,' they said.

Katumbi’s reaction

Kabila’s return has also drawn sharp political reactions. Moïse Katumbi, a leading opposition figure and former Katanga governor, echoed the sentiments shared by Nangaa, through a pointed message posted on X.

'I stand with you, dear coordinator @CNangaa. What you said is true, painful, and powerful. Those who were supposed to lead the fight for justice and freedom have fallen short. They’ve forgotten why they once rose up,' Katumbi wrote.

He contrasted Kinshasa’s current leadership with the environment in Goma, saying, 'While Kinshasa crushes, humiliates, insults, and divides, Goma welcomes, protects, and unites. Even Joseph Kabila is returning there. That alone shows how far Tshisekedi’s regime has pushed away all the values of the Republic.'

Katumbi ended his statement with a call for change: 'Our only wish today is to remove Tshisekedi from power. Congo deserves better than this disguised dictatorship, this institutionalised tribalism, and this incompetence turned into a system. Thank you for saying out loud what so many are quietly thinking. The people will decide.'

Last week, DRC senators voted to lift Joseph Kabila’s immunity, paving the way for possible prosecution over alleged links to the M23 rebel group. The move followed the seizure of his assets by authorities who accused him of supporting the rebels.

The situation intensified amid reports that Kabila had visited Goma in April—claims he has firmly denied.

In an address to Congolese on May 23, 2025, Kabila clarified he had not been to Goma but plans to visit soon, dismissing the accusations as politically motivated and based on rumors.

He also noted that even if such a visit had occurred, it would have been in the spirit of dialogue with fellow Congolese, especially given the government’s ongoing peace talks with M23 leaders in Qatar.

The AFC/M23 claims to fight for the rights of marginalised communities, particularly Kinyarwanda-speaking groups long subjected to persecution in eastern Congo.

Following a major offensive, the group now controls key territories, including the cities of Bukavu and Goma, which it seized in January 2025.

Recent mediation efforts by the U.S. and Qatar led to talks between M23 and the Congolese government. However, tensions remain high, with Kinshasa reportedly committed to continued military action.

After the withdrawal of Romanian mercenaries defeated by M23, President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration is now said to be seeking new mercenaries from Colombia.

As Kabila’s reemergence and Katumbi’s defiance converge in the eastern region, the political climate in the DRC appears to be shifting, possibly setting the stage for deeper opposition alignment ahead of future national transitions.

The Congo River Alliance (AFC/M23) has officially welcomed the arrival of former President Joseph Kabila Kabange to the city of Goma.

Théophile Niyitegeka

The contingent, comprising personnel from both the RDF and the Rwanda National Police (RNP), is set to relieve the current force deployed in the insurgency-hit province, where Rwandan troops have been operating since July 2021 at the request of the Mozambican government.

Accompanied by Commissioner of Police Vincent Sano, the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Operations, Maj Gen Nyakarundi, commended the outgoing forces for their professionalism and success in restoring security and stability in Cabo Delgado, and challenged the new contingent to strive to perform their duties even more effectively.

He urged them to maintain discipline and foster teamwork in order to successfully fulfill their assigned responsibilities.

Since their initial deployment in 2021, the Rwanda Security Forces, in collaboration with the Mozambican army, have played a critical role in weakening Islamic State-linked insurgent groups that had destabilised parts of northern Mozambique.

The partnership has contributed significantly to improved security in the region and the return of internally displaced people to their communities.

The Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Army Chief of Staff, Major General Vincent Nyakarundi, briefed the new contingent of Rwanda Security Forces (RSF) at Kami Barracks ahead of their deployment to Cabo Delgado Province in Mozambique.

The army chief urged the troops to maintain discipline and foster teamwork in order to successfully fulfill their assigned responsibilities.

The contingent, comprising personnel from both the RDF and the Rwanda National Police (RNP), is set to relieve the current force deployed in the insurgency-hit province.

Rwandan troops have been operating in Cabo Delgado Province since July 2021 at the request of the Mozambican government.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

In a strongly worded press statement released on Sunday, May 25, AFC/M23 accused the Congolese government and its international allies, including MONUSCO’s senior civilian protection advisor Teohna Williams, of spreading false information to derail the fragile peace process mediated in Doha.

Williams, in a briefing to the international community on May 22, painted a grim picture of Goma’s current state under M23 control, a portrayal the group flatly rejects.

'These falsehoods, coming from a biased actor, cannot deceive informed opinion,' the statement read, defending the group’s occupation of the North Kivu capital since January.

'Goma was then living a daily nightmare… We have ended these atrocities, restored order, and allowed Goma to rise again.'

The rebel movement claims that prior to its takeover, the city was overrun by lawlessness, violence, and ethnic killings, carried out by forces loyal to Kinshasa. It also accuses the Congolese army of using civilians as human shields and deploying artillery in displacement camps around the city.

According to the statement, the camps have since been dismantled and displaced persons have returned safely to their homes.

The group’s spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, blamed MONUSCO for ignoring what he described as widespread human rights abuses committed under government authority. He cited acts such as public executions, arbitrary detentions based on ethnicity, and even cannibalism, which he maintained have been overlooked by the UN mission.

Asserting control over security in Goma, the M23 says it is now conducting a disarmament operation to recover weapons allegedly distributed by the Congolese government to civilians.

AFC/M23 statement also disputes DRC Ambassador Zenon Mukongo’s recent letter to the UN Security Council claiming M23 offensives in several areas, including Kishishe and Bambo. M23 says those locations have been under its control since 2022.

The group pointed to an April 12 press release by the Congolese army (FARDC), which they claim contradicts the ambassador’s allegations.

'The accusations by Mr Mukongo, refuted by the FARDC’s documents, confirm the regime’s duplicity,' the statement said.

AFC/M23 Spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuk has accused the Congolese government and its international allies, including MONUSCO’s senior civilian protection advisor Teohna Williams, of spreading false information to derail the fragile peace process mediated in Doha.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The investors held talks with President Kagame on the sidelines of the ongoing Basketball Africa League (BAL) Nile Conference on Saturday night.

'On the sidelines of #BAL5, President Kagame met with @NBA_Africa investors to discuss the growth of the league on the continent,' reads a post shared by the Office of the President on X.

Among the attendees was Masai Ujiri, President of the Toronto Raptors, a team in the United States’ NBA, who has made significant investments in Rwandan sports.

He recently completed the construction of Zaria Court, a facility in Kigali that will offer recreation and sports opportunities, with a focus on basketball.

In addition, he has a project to build up to 1,000 basketball courts across Africa through his initiative, Giants of Africa, which aims to promote basketball development on the continent.

Another guest received by President Kagame was South Sudanese entrepreneur Luol Deng, a prominent advocate for the sport in Africa. Deng previously played for major NBA teams including the Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers, and Minnesota Timberwolves.

They were accompanied by several other figures, including Basketball Africa League (BAL) President Mamadou Gallo Fall, NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi, and Rwanda’s Minister of Sports Nelly Mukazayire.

Basketball is increasingly being seen as a key driver of Africa’s development and economy, as evidenced by the job creation and infrastructure development spurred by the Basketball Africa League (BAL), the increased global visibility it brings to the continent, and its role in promoting youth engagement and talent retention.

Akamanzi recently revealed that BAL alone has generated $250 million in just four years, with a goal to reach $4.5 billion over the next 10 years.

The final games of the BAL Nile Conference group stage are set to take place on Sunday, May 25. Al Ahly Tripoli of Libya will face MBB Blue Soldiers of South Africa, while Rwanda’s APR will take on Nairobi City Thunder.

IGIHE

Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Angola, Burundi, Malawi, Uganda, Sao Tome Principe, South Sudan, Zambia, Kenya, the Republic of the Congo, and the Central African Republic will work with development partners, civil society organizations, and other health experts from across Africa who committed to an agreement at a regional meeting held in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.

According to a statement released by the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), the agreement will further help streamline cross-border transmission challenges, data-sharing mechanisms among countries, and the movement of affected populations.

The Africa CDC reported that the continent has recorded over 16,398 confirmed mpox cases and 1,180 deaths in 22 countries as of Feb. 10.

“The regional nature of the mpox outbreak demands a collective solution. That is why this gathering is so crucial — it is not only a forum for exchanging knowledge but also a springboard for collective action,” said Otim Patrick Ramadan, acting regional manager for emergency response at the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa.

Ramadhan said the health agency looks forward to continuing its work with member states and partners to build on the gains made and meet persistent challenges head-on.

Linda Mobula, World Bank senior health specialist in the DRC, said epidemics do not have borders, hence the need to reinforce cross-border collaboration and coordination.

“An agreement is therefore critically important to drive political momentum, reinforce the enabling environment, and strengthen governance,” Mobula added.

The World Bank, in collaboration with the Africa CDC, the WHO, and other partners, including the United Nations Children’s Fund and the International Organization for Migration, convened the meeting to facilitate political engagement, technical discussions, and cross-border cooperation among stakeholders.

A Rwandan security officer inspects a vehicle from the Ugandan side at Cyanika border post. Twelve African countries on Friday resolved to intensify cross-border collaborations to respond, prevent, and control disease outbreaks such as mpox and other health emergencies.

Xinhua

The area, previously controlled by Islamic State-linked insurgents, was liberated by the RSF in October 2024.

The activity marked an important step in efforts to restore normal life in the region, following years of instability caused by armed insurgents. Mucojo market, once abandoned due to insecurity, is gradually becoming a centre of renewed social and economic activity.

Hassan Fazenda, Chief of Mucojo village, expressed appreciation for the RSF’s role in restoring peace and supporting community recovery.

'We are thankful for the sacrifices you made that enabled us to return to our homes. Your continued support is helping us to recover from the devastating impact of four years of insurgency,' he said.

Representing the RSF, Lt Col Andrew Mugabo thanked the community and local leaders for their collaboration. He reaffirmed the Rwanda Security Force’s commitment to ongoing support, particularly in efforts focused on restoring livelihoods and fostering long-term stability in the region.

Umuganda is a Rwandan tradition of community service held monthly, where citizens work together on projects such as cleaning public spaces, repairing infrastructure, or planting trees. As a homegrown initiative, Umuganda played a major role in Rwanda’s recovery following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi by fostering unity, civic responsibility, and inclusive development.

By introducing the concept in Mozambique, the RSF is promoting not only physical restoration but also a sense of collective responsibility and national rebuilding. The exercise reflects broader efforts by Rwanda to support peace and recovery beyond its borders.

Rwanda first deployed a joint force of Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and Rwanda National Police to Cabo Delgado in July 2021, at the request of the Mozambican government.

Since then, the RSF has been instrumental in counterterrorism operations, contributing to the liberation and stabilisation of several areas previously held by insurgents.

The Umuganda in Mucojo complements other RSF initiatives in the region, including security support, humanitarian outreach, and capacity-building programs. The efforts include the training of more than 500 troops in an advanced infantry course, who graduated on Friday, May 23, 2025.

Macomia District, previously controlled by Islamic State-linked insurgents, was liberated by the RSF in October 2024.

The community work activity marked an important step in efforts to restore normal life in the region, following years of instability caused by armed insurgents.

Rwanda first deployed a joint force of Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and Rwanda National Police to Cabo Delgado in July 2021, at the request of the Mozambican government.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The concert took place on Saturday at the BK Arena, which was packed with basketball lovers who had just witnessed the thrilling Day 5 of the Nile Conference matchups.

The event followed a high-stakes game where Al Ahli Tripoli narrowly defeated APR BBC in a nail-biting 106—102 finish.

Before the main acts hit the stage, the crowd was warmed up by performers from Sherrie Silver Foundation and Ishami Talents, who delivered spirited performances that set the tone for the night.

Then came the grand entrance. Bruce Melodie took the stage around 8:30 PM in dramatic fashion, accompanied by a large crew of dancers. Dressed in all-white and sporting a black full-face helmet, his dancers contrasted in all-black outfits with white headgear, creating a stunning visual effect.

In a surprise move, some of his dancers helped him remove the white outfit mid-performance, revealing a shiny reddish-brown costume underneath, amping up the excitement.

Bruce Melodie kicked off his set with Bado, expressing gratitude to everyone who has supported his music journey. He followed it with crowd favourites like Ikinya, Ikinyafu, and When She’s Around (his collab with Shaggy).

The energy peaked during his performance of Katerina, which sent the arena into a frenzy. He kept the momentum going with hits like Katapila, Saa Moya, and Rosa—one of the standout tracks from his latest album, Colourful Generation.

He closed out his set with fan favourites Fou de Toi, Igitangaza, Sawa Sawa, Kungola, and the much-loved Henzapu, leaving the crowd wanting more.

Moments later, the much-anticipated BNXN (formerly known as Buju) from Nigeria took the stage to thunderous applause.

He treated the audience to a vibrant set including tracks like Bae Bae (with Ruger), Ole, Phenomena, Outside, and more.

BNXN wrapped up the night with chart-toppers Finesse (his viral hit with Pheelz) and Gwagwalada, as well as his collaboration with Kizz Daniel and Seyi Vibez.

The show officially ended around 9:30 PM, with host Zuba Mutesi thanking the fans for coming and encouraging them to return for the final games of the tournament on Sunday.

The first match will see Al Ahli take on MBB-South Africa at 2:30 PM, followed by APR BBC facing off against Nairobi City Thunder at 5:30 PM.

Bruce Melodie arrived on stage dressed in white clothes and wearing a black full-face helmet.

The moment when Bruce Melodie took off the helmet before he started his electrifying performance.

Dancers from Ishami Talent were the first to take the stage.

Zuba Mutesi, who hosted the show, would occasionally break into dance.

Bruce Melodie was accompanied by a large group of dancers.

The mood shifted dramatically when Bruce Melodie performed Katerina and Henzapu.

BNXN took the vibe to another level with Gwagwalada.

BNXN took the stage with a vibrant team of dancers.

BNXN sang many of his popular songs.

IGIHE

The ministry said 307 Russian servicemen have “returned from Kiev-controlled territory,” while the equivalent number of Ukrainian prisoners was freed as well.

“The large-scale exchange initiated by the Russian side will continue,” the ministry said.

The swap followed the exchange of 270 servicemen and 120 civilians from each side announced on Friday.

Following their direct negotiations in Istanbul last week, Russia and Ukraine agreed to exchange 1,000 prisoners on each side, marking the largest prisoner swap since the start of their conflict in 2022.

Russia and Ukraine on Saturday exchanged 307 prisoners each under an agreement reached during recent talks in Istanbul, said the Russian Defense Ministry.

Xinhua