CAR Roundup: Armed group dissolution, local elections delayed again, 11 killed in Wagner group's shooting incident

Genocide call: MSF doctor urges UK action on Gaza

According to reports from Médecins Sans Frontières, Dr Prudence Jarrett highlighted the UK Government's obligation to stop arms sales to Israel amidst the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Speaking at an event in Glasgow, she shared her experiences working in the Central African Republic and discussed the mental strains of providing medical care in war-torn regions. Urging for more humanitarian measures, she condemned the violence against healthcare workers and called for the UK to allow more Gazan children to seek medical treatment.

AU welcomes armed group dissolution in CAR

The African Union has reported the dissolution of the Union for Peace in the Central African Republic (UPC) and the 3R group, calling for other factions to also disarm. Following a peace deal earlier this year, AU Commission head Mahmoud Ali Youssouf welcomed this development, urging a commitment to national dialogue. Despite improvements in major cities, sporadic violence persists in remote regions, underscoring the complexities of peace in a nation long affected by civil strife.

CAR delays local elections

Reports from Townpress Newspaper detail the Central African Republic's postponement of local elections, moving the date from August 2025 to December amid rising political tensions. Prime Minister Félix Moloua announced the changes during a committee meeting, igniting calls for electoral reform from opposition parties. With elections last held in 1988 and persistent technical difficulties cited by the National Elections Authority, concerns grow over the electoral process's credibility as multiple significant elections are set for December.

Wagner Group's shooting incident in CAR claims 11 lives

According to reports by the Associated Press, a shooting at a gold mine controlled by the Wagner Group in the Central African Republic resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals, predominantly young locals seeking gold residue. The incident, which remains unconfirmed by authorities, has raised alarms regarding the mercenary group's record of human rights abuses. Residents have expressed outrage over the apparent disregard for life in an area heavily influenced by Wagner's military presence.

WHO's trachoma intervention plan for Nigeria and others

The World Health Organisation has announced plans for trachoma elimination interventions across 20 African nations, including Nigeria. As reported, the continent harbours 90% of the global trachoma burden, necessitating urgent actions to address this neglected tropical disease. Senegal, recently validated for eliminating trachoma, serves as a model through its effective integration of health initiatives and community involvement, emphasising the need for systematic efforts to combat health disparities in the region.