KENYA

Kenya’s November 27 By‑Elections Deemed “Biggest Test Yet” by IEBC

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) described the upcoming by‑elections on November 27 as the most significant electoral test Kenya has faced in recent years, citing rising political tensions and incidents of campaign-related violence. The commission emphasised that all political parties and candidates are expected to adhere strictly to the Elections Code of Conduct, warning that any breaches, including acts of violence or intimidation, could lead to disqualification or legal consequences. This statement reflects the IEBC’s determination to ensure a transparent, peaceful, and credible electoral process, particularly given the high stakes for local political alignments and the potential implications for national cohesion.

(Source: Daily Nation) 

TANZANIA

SADC Leaders Salute Samia’s Election Win, Mourn Unrest Victims

In a virtual summit held on November 7, 2025, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) leaders formally congratulated Samia Suluhu Hassan on her victory in Tanzania’s October 29 general election, during which she secured a second term and was sworn in on November 3. At the same time, the summit expressed condolences to the families of those who died and whose property was destroyed in election-related unrest in Tanzania and neighbouring Madagascar, recognising the severe toll the disturbances have taken on lives and infrastructure.

(Source: The Citizen)

UGANDA

Kenyans Urged to Steer Clear of Ugandan Politics

Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Joash Maangi, has strongly advised Kenyan citizens to avoid getting involved in Uganda’s political affairs, warning of potential personal danger and diplomatic fallout. His comments came after two Kenyans, Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, disappeared for over a month following their attendance at a political rally in Uganda — an incident that strained Kenya-Uganda relations. Maangi emphasised respect for Uganda’s sovereignty, urging Kenyans to “stick to politics at home” and to let Ugandans manage their internal affairs.

(Source: Monitor)

  

RWANDA

DRC and Rwanda Initial Economic Integration Deal Under US Oversight

On November 7, 2025, officials from Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) initialled the full text of a Regional Economic Integration Framework (REIF) during a meeting in Washington overseen by U.S. Under‑Secretary Allison Hooker and senior advisor Massad Boulos. According to the U.S. State Department, the REIF will foster cooperation across energy, infrastructure, mineral supply chains, national parks, and public health to turn peace into shared economic growth. But implementation of the framework is tied to the complete execution of other peace‑agreement components — including the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) and Operational Order (OPORD) — confirming that lasting economic progress depends on continued stability.

(Source: The New Times)

 

ETHIOPIA

Ethiopia Committed to Advancing Regional Cooperation

Ethiopia has reaffirmed its commitment to bolstering regional cooperation and to playing an active role in the governance agenda of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), as stated by Bikila Hurisa, the Minister Coordinator for the Democracy System Building Centre at the Office of the Prime Minister. Speaking at the Third IGAD Governance Forum in Addis Ababa under the theme “The Role of National Democratic Institutions in Promoting Peace and Security,” he highlighted Ethiopia’s reform journey over the past seven years, emphasising efforts to modernise institutions, expand democratic participation, reform the justice and security sectors, and tackle corruption. He added that coordinated action among national democratic institutions is vital for regional peace and stability and that by deepening institutional cooperation, Ethiopia and the wider IGAD region will be better equipped to handle the governance challenges and opportunities they face.

(Source: ENA)

  

SUDAN

UN Presses Sudan for Humanitarian Access as Gov’t Rejects Quartet Ceasefire

Senior UN officials have flown to Port Sudan to pressure the Sudanese government to allow more humanitarian corridors and remove barriers to life-saving aid, amid a deepening crisis. The trip comes as Sudan’s leadership rejects a three-month ceasefire proposal from the “Quartet” — Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UAE, and the US — arguing the initiative lacks formal legitimacy. During talks, Sudan’s Foreign Minister reiterated the government’s preference for bilateral coordination, while the head of the Sovereignty Council insisted that aid operations respect Sudan’s sovereignty. Meanwhile, UN officials warn of “grave risks” if aid access doesn’t improve, given widespread displacement, violence, and reports of atrocities.

(Source: Dabanga)

  

SOMALIA

Somalia’s Parliamentary Speaker Attends EALA Session in Kampala

The Speaker of the House of the People of Somalia’s Federal Parliament travelled to Kampala, Uganda, to participate in a session of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Parliamentary Speakers’ Forum. The event brought together parliamentary leaders from EAC member states to discuss regional legislative collaboration, integration initiatives, and strategies for harmonising laws across the bloc. Somalia’s participation highlighted its commitment to strengthening ties with the East African Community and contributing to regional policy discussions, especially following its recent efforts to enhance political stability and legislative governance at home.

(Source: Radio Dalsan)