Human Rights Concerns Mount in Mozambique as Displaced Persons Face Dire Conditions
Thousands of civilians displaced by Islamist armed group attacks in northeastern Mozambique are struggling to survive in overcrowded and inadequate conditions. According to Human Rights Watch, between November 10 and 23, 2025, attacks in Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces resulted in 33 deaths and forced approximately 108,000 people, including 70,000 children, to flee their homes. The displaced individuals are living in precarious conditions, lacking access to basic necessities such as food, healthcare, shelter, and mental health support.
Sheila Nhancale, Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch, emphasized the need for the government to ensure minimum living conditions, protect civilians, and investigate abuses. The organization has urged the government to uphold its obligations under Mozambique’s constitution and regional and international conventions for internally displaced persons.
In other news, diplomatic tensions have arisen between Ghana and Israel following the alleged mistreatment of seven Ghanaians at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport. Ghana has since deported three Israeli nationals, prompting a tit-for-tat response. The incident has sparked a row between the two countries, with Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa stating that his country would deport one Israeli for every Ghanaian returned by Israel.
Meanwhile, in Ethiopia, six TikTok creators have been detained by police for wearing “indecent attire” at a public event, sparking a nationwide debate on culture, morality, and freedom of expression. The arrests have drawn mixed reactions online, with some defending the police and others alleging that the arrests violate freedom of expression and stifle creativity.
In Kenya, climate activist Truphena Muthoni has set a new record by hugging a tree for 72 hours straight to raise awareness about climate change and deforestation. Muthoni’s peaceful protest aims to unite people and highlight the importance of environmental protection.
In a significant development, the United States’ new National Security Strategy has shifted its Africa policy focus from development aid to securing access to raw materials and energy projects. Analysts have raised concerns that this shift may offer little benefit for the continent, potentially increasing resource-related conflicts. The strategy has been met with skepticism, with experts suggesting that African countries should strengthen the African Continental Free Trade Area and reduce their dependence on the US.