Kenya 

Kenya and Tanzania Reset Ties After Diplomatic Strain 

Kenya and Tanzania have taken steps to ease a period of diplomatic tension that emerged after several Kenyan nationals were detained in Tanzania, straining bilateral relations. Presidents William Ruto and Samia Suluhu Hassan have resumed high-level dialogue to address the issues, focusing on restoring trust and cooperation between the neighbouring states. Officials from both capitals are engaging on regulatory and procedural concerns affecting cross-border movement, trade, and the treatment of citizens. The renewed talks aim to prevent future disputes, reaffirm shared economic goals, and strengthen regional integration within the East African Community (EAC) framework after months of cool relations. 

(Source: Africa Intelligence)  

Uganda 

Opposition Under Pressure: Restrictions on Political Activity 

Uganda’s political climate remains tense in the wake of the January 15 presidential elections. Incumbent President Yoweri Museveni was declared the winner for a seventh term, a result rejected by opposition leader Bobi Wine amid allegations of fraud, internet shutdowns, and biometric failures on voting day. Security forces have detained thousands of opposition supporters, and reports from the Human Rights Watch detail ongoing suppression of the National Unity Platform (NUP) members, including alleged attacks on Wine’s family and sieges on party offices. Rights groups and the United Nations (UN) have raised serious concerns about human rights abuses and democratic backsliding as the post-election crackdown continues. 

(Source: APA News) 

Tanzania 

Post-Election Political Climate: Opposition Space and Dissent 

Tanzania continues to grapple with political fallout from its October 2025 general elections. While there has been no major electoral contest this month, the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party’s dominance and legislative actions remain a focus. Parliament’s second sitting opened with key committee nominations under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s oversight. However, human rights groups have flagged a broader crackdown on dissent and opposition activity following last year’s polls, including alleged wrongful arrests and heavy-handed tactics against organisers of planned protests. Regulation of key sectors, such as amendments to mining corporate social responsibility rules, also illustrates the government’s evolving legal landscape. 

(Sources: The Citizen; Human Rights Watch) 

Rwanda 

Foreign Relations Management: Balancing Western Partnerships 

Rwanda has escalated a diplomatic dispute with the United Kingdom (UK) by filing legal proceedings at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague over the collapse of a controversial migrant relocation agreement. Kigali argues that the UK’s unilateral termination breached treaty obligations and seeks compensation for payments that were made but never honoured. The move underscores Rwanda’s growing willingness to challenge major Western partners legally and influence its international environment. Meanwhile, Kigali’s political scene remains stable under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, who last year secured another term, reinforcing continuity amidst shifting regional geopolitics. 

(Source: Reuters) 

Ethiopia 

2026 Elections Preparations: Political Readiness and Legal Framework 

Ethiopia’s political narrative this year revolves around its upcoming national elections and persistent internal security challenges. Analysts note that the 2026 polls are likely to reinforce dominance by the ruling Prosperity Party under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, even as insecurity in regions such as Amhara, Oromia, and Tigray hinders participation and opposition activity. These dynamics have drawn attention to the regulatory framework governing the electoral process, which critics argue limits genuine political competition and fuels regional scepticism. Observers say outcomes in Ethiopia will be closely watched for signals about democratic space and governance in one of the region’s most populous countries. 

(Source: Mail & Guardian) 

Sudan  

Civil War Dynamics: Control of Territory and Power Balance 

Sudan’s long-running civil war in 2025 remains one of Africa’s deadliest conflicts, with extensive violence driven by clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Conflict data analysts have documented thousands of combat and civilian casualties, with drones and other weaponry exacerbating the humanitarian toll. The war’s persistence underscores governance failure in stabilising the country and delivering basic services. Regional and international actors continue to express concern over fragmentation and the risk of de facto partition as both sides consolidate territorial control without a political settlement in sight. 

(Source: The East African) 

Somalia 

Constitutional Reform Dispute: Debate over Mandate Extensions 

Political tensions flared in Mogadishu when Somalia’s federal parliament descended into chaos during discussions over proposed constitutional amendments. Lawmakers clashed vehemently over efforts perceived to extend presidential and legislative mandates, reviving fears of renewed instability reminiscent of past constitutional crises. The session was suspended after a confrontation between members, with no clear timeline for resumption. This episode highlights ongoing challenges in Somalia’s political cohesion, as competing factions within the federal system struggle to agree on foundational governance issues amidst a fragile security and governance context. 

(Source: Associated Press)