Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has won a second five-year term with 60 percent of the vote, the electoral commission announced, confirming the 64-year-old leader’s victory over closest challenger Brian Mundubile, who secured 38 percent. Hichilema described the election as a demonstration of Zambia’s commitment to democracy and peaceful transitions. However, Mundubile disputed the process, alleging voting irregularities and discrepancies. The commission briefly suspended counting over reports of violence and stolen ballots, while regional and international observers said polling was largely peaceful but raised concerns over media freedom, late electoral reforms, and restrictions on the opposition.
In Zimbabwe, the death toll from the Rida Mbuya Nehanda ferry disaster on Lake Kariba has risen to 92, making it the country’s deadliest transport tragedy. The figure surpasses the 89 lives lost in the 1991 Nyanga bus disaster. Eight additional bodies were recovered, some far from the crash site, while six victims remain unidentified; authorities may resort to DNA testing as decomposition complicates identification. The ferry was believed to be carrying around 168 passengers, including families, Traders, and fish buyers. At least 67 people have been rescued. The disaster has devastated communities in Mola, where some families lost multiple relatives and children were left without parents. Search operations continue, and officials warn the toll may climb further.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is battling its deadliest Ebola outbreak on record. The Bundibugyo strain has claimed 2,325 lives, exceeding the 2,299 deaths recorded during the 2018–2020 epidemic. The current outbreak has recorded 4,945 confirmed cases with a 46 percent fatality rate. While 1,040 patients have recovered, 730 remain in isolation or hospital care. The World Health Organization warned the outbreak is “outpacing the response,” citing conflict, weak health infrastructure, and community distrust as major hurdles. No approved treatment exists for the strain, though vaccine trials are underway. Neighbouring countries, including South Sudan and the Central African Republic, are strengthening surveillance. The UN has allocated $54.5 million to support the response as WHO targets bringing transmission under control within three months.
Uganda faces a deepening health workforce crisis. The Uganda Medical and Dental Practitioners Council reports only 7,871 doctors held active licences to practise in 2026, equating to roughly one doctor for every 6,400 people. With the population projected to exceed 50 million, the gap between demand and capacity is widening. Although 10,951 doctors are registered, 3,080 lack active licences. Licensed professionals are spread across public and private facilities, academia, and research, with some potentially working abroad. Uneven distribution, staffing shortages, and an ongoing dispute over the deployment and welfare of medical interns are adding further pressure on the system.
In Kenya, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has appealed a High Court decision upholding his impeachment. He argues the three-judge bench erred in ruling that his removal could not be reversed despite violations of his constitutional rights, including the right to a fair hearing and meaningful public participation. Gachagua disputes the court’s interpretation of the removal procedure and challenges the appointment of Kithure Kindiki as his successor. He also alleges that parts of the judgment read in open court were omitted from the written version. Gachagua is asking the Court of Appeal to declare the Senate’s October 2024 impeachment resolution unconstitutional and void, correct the court record, and grant the remedies he originally sought.
