Kenya 

Moment of Truth for New IEBC Team, Political Kingpins

Voters in 24 areas are casting votes to choose new representatives in by-elections that have garnered significant national attention, with both the government and the united opposition viewing the contests as an early indicator of strength ahead of the upcoming general election. The first polls overseen by the restructured electoral commission have seen high turnout, accusations of intimidation and bribery, and scrutiny of security and planning. The results are expected to influence coalitions, alter regional power balances, and test key political figures from the rival camps. Several constituencies and wards have crowded candidate fields, and leaders from across the political spectrum are campaigning vigorously to enhance their influence or defend their positions. Security agencies and electoral officials report they are prepared for voting, with materials delivered and officers positioned across the affected regions.

(Source: Daily Nation)

Tanzania 

Cuban Envoy Vows to Strengthen Longstanding Ties with Tanzania

Cuban Ambassador to Tanzania, Yordens Vera, reaffirmed Cuba’s commitment to strengthening its long-standing relationship with Tanzania during a visit to the Coast Region, marking nine years since the passing of Fidel Castro. He highlighted the historic ties established by Julius Nyerere and Fidel Castro. He noted Cuba’s support for local development, including the construction of secondary schools and assistance to the biolarvicides plant in Kibaha. Vera said Cuba is ready to expand cooperation in medicine, biotechnology, tourism, and agriculture. Regional Commissioner Abubakar Kunenge outlined recent progress in infrastructure, industry, and investment under President Samia Suluhu Hassan and encouraged Cuban investors to explore opportunities in tourism and other sectors. Ambassador Vera also visited Ruvu Secondary School, stressing the role of education in deepening bilateral ties.

(Source: Daily News)

Uganda

Mayiga Slams Police Over Brutality During Election Campaign

Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikkiro of the Buganda Kingdom, condemned what he described as excessive and partisan police brutality during the 2026 election campaign, after reports that police dogs were used to intimidate supporters of Bobi Wine in Kawempe. He urged security agencies to maintain order without violence or political bias and warned against deploying tear gas, dogs, or other force at rallies. Mayiga emphasised that political gatherings naturally involve excitement and movement and called on security forces to respect citizens’ dignity and their constitutional right to peaceful assembly.

(Source: The Monitor)

Rwanda

Five Killed in Uvira as FARDC, Wazalendo Clash Over Food Supplies

At least five people were killed, and more than a dozen were injured in Uvira, South Kivu, after clashes erupted on 23rd November between the Congolese armed forces and allied Wazalendo militias during a World Food Programme aid distribution. Initial reports confirmed four deaths and fourteen injuries, but local media later indicated the toll had increased to five, with authorities emphasising that the figures remain provisional. The violence began near the Catholic Cathedral when Wazalendo fighters tried to seize food supplies meant for vulnerable residents.

(Source: The New Times)

Ethiopia 

France Expresses Admiration for Magnitude, Speed of Ethiopia’s Transformation

France’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Alexis Lamek, praised the swift transformation under the Prosperity Party, highlighting improvements in infrastructure, urban development, and institutional efficiency. In a meeting with Deputy President Adem Farah, both sides emphasised the longstanding Ethio–France partnership, including economic, cultural, and strategic cooperation. Lamek reaffirmed France’s support for Ethiopia’s reforms and democratisation, while Farah outlined political openness, strengthened institutions, and historic gains in women’s and youth’s representation. They agreed to deepen collaboration across political, cultural, and institutional spheres, reinforcing the nations’ strategic partnership.

(Source: ENA)

Somalia

NISA Dismantles Terror Network, Arrests 11 in Intelligence-Led Operation

The National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) has dismantled an Al-Shabaab network, arresting 11 individuals accused of planning terror attacks and espionage in Mogadishu and the surrounding Lower and Middle Shabelle regions. The operation, based on detailed intelligence, targeted a cell in the advanced stages of plotting violence, with several suspects apprehended while actively committing criminal acts. NISA highlighted that the arrests are part of the federal government’s intensified efforts to prevent attacks through improved intelligence capabilities. All 11 suspects are now in custody and will be handed over to judicial authorities for full prosecution.

(Source: SONNA)

Sudan 

Al-Atta Outlines Detailed Conditions for Peace, Vows to Prosecute Mercenaries

Lieutenant General Yasser al-Atta reiterated that the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) will only consider ending the war if the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) surrender, withdraw from major towns, hand over all weapons, and enable complete state control of borders and essential infrastructure. Speaking in El Obeid, he stressed that the army is united behind a decisive military solution and rejects any negotiations not based on these conditions. He outlined SAF positions in Kordofan, contrasted them with RSF control in Darfur, and noted that remaining RSF members will face legal review, with those involved in crimes subject to prosecution. Al-Atta also renewed accusations that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is inciting the conflict by financing foreign fighters. He insisted that the RSF has no future in Sudan and pledged legal action against anyone who supported them. He added that joint forces are preparing for new offensives and claimed that the war has bolstered national unity.

(Source: Sudan Tribune)