AGP Executive Report

Ebola Emergency Escalates: The DRC’s Ebola outbreak has surged past 200 deaths, with authorities reporting 204 fatalities from 867 suspected cases, as WHO raised the risk to “very high” and warned the outbreak could worsen in the DRC and Uganda. Regional Spread Fears: Uganda confirmed three new cases, bringing its total to five, while Africa CDC says 10 additional countries are at risk—naming Angola, Burundi, Central African Republic, Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Zambia—driven by “high mobility and insecurity.” Human Cost and Response Strain: The Red Cross reported three volunteers died after likely contracting Ebola while handling dead bodies, and attacks on Ebola health facilities intensified, including tents set on fire and clashes over burial protocols. Travel and Border Moves: Bahrain tightened entry rules for travellers from affected countries, and the US and EU rolled out enhanced screening and precautionary measures. Rwanda Spotlight: Rwanda is listed among the at-risk countries as the region braces for cross-border exposure. Culture: In Cannes, Cristian Mungiu’s “Fjord” won the Palme d’Or.

Ebola Escalation: Uganda confirmed three new Ebola cases on Saturday, bringing its total to five, as the WHO raised the DRC outbreak risk to “very high” and warned the regional threat is growing. Regional Spillover Watch: Africa CDC chief Jean Kaseya said 10 countries are now “at risk” — including Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi, Tanzania, Zambia and others — citing “high mobility and insecurity” across the Great Lakes. DRC Response Under Strain: In eastern Congo, the outbreak is spreading faster than contact tracing can keep up, with the Bundibugyo strain complicating detection and leaving no approved vaccine or treatment. Border Pressure: The US expanded Ebola screening and temporarily barred green-card holders who recently visited DRC, Uganda or South Sudan, while Uganda suspended public transport to the DRC and tightened border movement. Burundi Tension: In Kirundo, residents reported unusual military patrols and rising travel restrictions, adding to regional anxiety amid the wider crisis.

Ebola Emergency Tightens in Congo: The WHO has raised the Ebola risk in DR Congo to “very high” as confirmed cases hit 82 with 7 deaths, while suspected figures climb to about 750 cases and 177 deaths—yet officials warn the outbreak is “much larger.” Containment Meets Resistance: In Ituri, authorities banned funeral wakes and gatherings of over 50 after clashes with residents and reports of treatment tents being set on fire, underscoring how insecurity and distrust are derailing contact tracing. Regional Spread Worries: A case has been reported in South Kivu near Bukavu, and Uganda says its situation is “stable” with two imported cases. Rwanda Borders Up: Rwanda has introduced mandatory quarantine for arrivals from DR Congo and denied entry to foreign nationals who transited through Congo in the last 30 days. Africa Day Message: Rwanda’s envoy in Zimbabwe urged Africans to “decolonise” their minds to unlock Agenda 2063 goals.

Ebola Emergency Hits New Fronts: WHO says the eastern DRC outbreak has reached 177 suspected deaths from 750 suspected cases, with officials warning it may have been spreading for about two months. Conflict and mistrust are worsening the fight: in Ituri’s Rwampara, protesters torched Ebola isolation tents after authorities refused to release a body for burial, echoing past outbreaks where local customs collide with containment rules. Regional ripple effects: Uganda has confirmed cases, and Rwanda has tightened border controls at Kigali International Airport and land crossings. Vaccine push ramps up: CEPI says it is evaluating Bundibugyo-strain vaccine candidates with a goal of a 100-day timeline as global health leaders meet in Geneva. IMF Growth Warning: the IMF urges Africa to reset its growth model to attract private investment and boost productivity, noting income-doubling could take decades without reforms.

Ebola Shockwave: An Irish MSF medic warns the DRC outbreak is evolving fast, with figures likely “underestimates” as a treatment centre was set on fire by grieving families; WHO says the Bundibugyo strain has no targeted vaccine or therapeutics, and the crisis is already drawing global emergency measures. Cross-Border Spread: A first confirmed case is reported in M23-controlled South Kivu near Bukavu, hundreds of kilometres from Ituri, while Uganda confirms additional cases and the region braces for wider travel disruptions. Rwanda Angle: Former CDC chief Robert Redfield says the outbreak could “leak into Rwanda,” as Rwanda’s proximity to Goma keeps health officials on alert. Local Governance & Rights: At the African Commission, ARTICLE 19 alleges systemic suppression of civic space in Rwanda, citing censorship and misuse of legal tools. Finance Watch: NCBA posts Sh6bn Q1 net profit on digital lending growth, while Rwanda’s nuclear push continues—Kagame says nuclear energy could be operational in the early 2030s.

Ebola Alarm Spreads in Congo: A confirmed Ebola case has been reported in DR Congo’s South Kivu, far from the outbreak’s epicentre, with the rebel-controlled area around Bukavu now in the spotlight as WHO warns the real numbers are likely higher and Uganda has also confirmed cases. Humanitarian Pressure: As aid budgets shrink, a humanitarian expert says affected communities must have a say—warning cuts could translate into millions of avoidable deaths. Regional Fallout: South Africa’s Durban saw police remove about 400 foreign nationals from a church after anti-migrant marches and threats escalated, pushing people toward refugee centres. Rwanda Diplomacy: Rwanda has asked Morocco to back Louise Mushikiwabo’s bid for re-election as Francophonie secretary-general. Rwanda Economy: The National Bank of Rwanda raised its benchmark rate to 8.25% to tackle persistent inflation. Trade & Logistics: Maersk set new peak-season surcharges for Asia-Pacific–East Africa routes from June, while Tanzania unveiled a near US$985m works budget to boost connectivity.

Ebola Alarm in Congo: WHO says the rare Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo is spreading with “scale and speed,” with 139 deaths and about 600 suspected cases as health teams race to strengthen surveillance and contact tracing. Border Tensions: Rwanda’s foreign ministry and the UK Foreign Office both flag the risk of cross-border movement and possible border closures as the outbreak worsens. Congo Response Strain: In Ituri, healthcare workers report they’re underprotected and undertrained, with shortages of masks, disinfectants, and even basic supplies—while insecurity and armed attacks complicate care and safe burials. Regional Ripple Effects: South Africa is urged to stay vigilant as Africa CDC declares the outbreak a public health emergency of continental security. Other Rwanda-linked developments: Rwanda says Mozambique will pay for Cabo Delgado security costs, and Rwanda marks World Bee Day with a focus on pollinators and rural livelihoods.

Ebola Alarm in Congo: Eastern DR Congo’s rare Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak is worsening fast, with WHO warning of “scale and speed” as deaths climb past 130 and suspected cases top 500; health workers say they’re short on basic supplies like masks, PPE, medicine and even motorbikes for contact tracing, while officials say “patient zero” hasn’t been found and the virus may have spread undetected for weeks. Rwanda in the Wider Response: Rwanda’s border posture and regional coordination remain in focus as the outbreak crosses into neighboring areas and global travel advisories tighten. Equity’s Growth Push: Equity Bank Group says it’s targeting 100 million customers by 2030 and expanding into 15 countries, after Q1 net profit rose 24% to Sh18.3b (regional units driving about half of profits). Digital Governance Moves: Nigeria orders 38 ministries onto secure paperless workflows, aiming to cut delays and boost accountability. Mozambique-Cabo Delgado Funding: Rwanda says Mozambique has secured funds to keep its troops in Cabo Delgado as EU support reportedly stalls. Refugees & Aid: A WFP look at Mahama Camp highlights ongoing support for tens of thousands of refugees in Rwanda.

Ebola Alarm: WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus says the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC is spreading with alarming “scale and speed,” as suspected deaths climb to at least 131 and suspected cases top 500, with conflict and mass displacement making surveillance and contact tracing harder. Regional Health Response: WHO is considering an experimental Ebola vaccine as Congo reports hundreds of suspected cases and Uganda confirms linked cases, while Africa CDC urges solidarity and warns against blanket travel bans. Cabo Delgado Funding: Rwanda says Mozambique has secured funds to keep Rwanda’s Cabo Delgado mission running, after earlier concerns that EU support might not continue. Visa-Free Push: Togo removes visa requirements for African travellers for up to 30 days, aiming to boost integration and tourism. Tech in Kigali: AISCA Foundation launches to tackle Africa’s AI “compute gap,” while Yango Tech expands AI and digital infrastructure services across the region.

Ebola Alarm in Congo: WHO chief Tedros Ghebreyesus says the rare Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo is spreading with “magnitude and speed,” with reports of about 131 deaths and 500+ suspected cases, plus two confirmed cases in Uganda. WHO says there’s no approved vaccine or treatment for this strain, and diagnostic capacity is limited, while officials weigh whether experimental options can be used as shipments of supplies move in. Regional Pressure: The outbreak is already triggering border and travel warnings, including U.S. “Do Not Travel” advisories for affected countries and heightened screening across the region. AFCON 2027 Draw: Football fans get a break from the headlines: Nigeria’s Super Eagles were placed in Group L with Madagascar, Tanzania and Guinea-Bissau, while Ghana and Ivory Coast share a group. Mobility Boost: Togo announced visa-free entry for all African nationals, joining a growing list of countries easing movement across the continent.

Ebola Crisis in Congo: A rare Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak is surging through eastern DR Congo, with health authorities tracing a fast-moving chain linked to an open-casket funeral in Ituri. Deaths have now passed 100 and suspected cases are climbing as the WHO declares the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern and Congo prepares more treatment centres, including in Ituri and Goma. Border Shutdowns: Rwanda has closed key crossings with Congo, tightening movement around Goma-Gisenyi after a confirmed case was reported near the border, while Uganda also reports cases as the virus spreads. Global Response Under Strain: The outbreak is drawing fresh alarm over delayed detection and limited tools—there’s no approved vaccine or treatment for this strain—while aid cuts and reduced surveillance capacity are being blamed for slow early action. Tech and Connectivity: Uganda has licensed Starlink to operate, joining a growing satellite internet rollout across Africa. Aviation Boom, Thin Margins: Airlines including RwandAir, Ethiopian, Kenya Airways and others are driving passenger growth, but profits remain razor-thin, raising pressure on tourism and hospitality.

Ebola Emergency Hits Goma: Rwanda has closed key border crossings with DR Congo after Ebola was confirmed in Goma, with movement largely suspended except for nationals returning home. Cross-Border Alarm: The WHO has declared the DRC–Uganda Ebola outbreak a public health emergency of international concern, as cases and deaths climb and health systems strain. US Response Escalates: The CDC says an American exposed in Congo has tested positive and is being evacuated to Germany, while the US rolls out tighter travel screening and monitoring. Rwanda Justice Closure: Felicien Kabuga, a major genocide suspect, has died in UN custody in The Hague at 93, ending years of legal limbo. Regional Health Measures: Congo says it will open three Ebola treatment centers in Ituri as the outbreak spreads beyond its initial hotspots. Sports Note: Ghana has been placed in Pot 2 for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers draw, with Rwanda in Pot 3.

Ebola Alert in the Region: The WHO has declared the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo and Uganda a public health emergency of international concern, as cases climb and a rare Bundibugyo strain—without approved vaccines or treatments—spreads amid conflict and weak health access. Border Measures: Rwanda moved to close key crossings with DR Congo after a confirmed case reached Goma, while WHO urged countries not to shut borders or restrict travel and trade. Surveillance Push: Nigeria’s NCDC says there are currently no Ebola cases detected in Nigeria, but it is intensifying monitoring at ports of entry and inside health facilities. Rwanda in the Spotlight: In culture and diplomacy, Rwanda’s envoy says Africa Day 2026 in Seoul will spotlight “A-culture” meeting “K-culture,” and Rwanda’s first Cannes title, Ben’imana, is drawing global attention. Trade & Finance: Absa is weighing joining China’s yuan payment system CIPS as Africa-China trade grows, and AfCFTA officials again frame the pact as a route to deeper intra-African integration.

Health Emergency: The WHO has declared an international public health emergency over a new Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo, with deaths now reported above 80 and suspected cases climbing past 300, and it has confirmed a lab case in Goma—raising fears of wider spread amid conflict and fragile health access. Cross-Border Response: Rwanda has closed its border links with the DRC (Rubavu/Gisenyi–Goma) “indefinitely,” while still allowing travel under strict screening and monitoring. Regional Pressure: WHO says the outbreak is a “public health emergency of international concern” (not a pandemic), urging countries to activate emergency measures and avoid blanket border shutdowns. Justice Update: In The Hague, Rwanda genocide suspect Félicien Kabuga has died in UN custody, prompting an inquiry into the circumstances. Politics & Society: A debate over women’s exclusion from leadership is resurfacing, alongside Rwanda’s continued push for intergenerational healing and remembrance.

Genocide Justice: Félicien Kabuga, the 1994 genocide suspect long held in The Hague, has died in UN custody while awaiting provisional release, prompting a full inquiry into the circumstances of his death. Security & Aviation: Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu used the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali to welcome Airbus plans for aircraft maintenance and hangar facilities, while again urging the fast delivery of already-ordered Apache helicopters to strengthen counterterrorism operations. Regional Mobility: Nigeria has begun implementing a 30-day visa-free entry policy for Rwandan citizens, with entry cleared for tourism, business and official visits. Politics in Nigeria: APC primaries drew fresh friction as INEC officials were reportedly absent at Surulere Constituency 11, while Yusuf Buhari won the Daura/Sandamu/Mai’adua House seat primary. Humanitarian Watch: In Rwanda’s Mahama camp, UNHCR, WFP and MINEMA have started a household-by-household review of aid targeting after protests over cash and food categorisation.

Genocide Justice: Rwanda genocide suspect Félicien Kabuga has died in UN custody in The Hague at about 91, court officials say, after his trial was halted in 2023 when he was ruled unfit due to dementia—an end to one of the last major fugitives accused of financing and driving the 1994 killings. Regional Mobility: Nigeria has started enforcing a reciprocal 30-day visa-free entry for Rwandan nationals, with entry cleared for tourism, business and official visits at airports, land borders and seaports. Kigali Business Push: At the Africa CEO Forum, IFC and Masai Ujiri’s Zaria Group announced plans to build an Africa-wide sports and entertainment industrial district starting in Kigali and Nairobi, aiming to turn creative jobs into long-term investment engines. Digital Sovereignty: Lawmakers and telecom leaders warned that Africa risks becoming dependent on foreign-controlled satellite internet unless it builds local regulation and infrastructure. DR Congo Tensions: Congolese forces retook Luvungi after M23 withdrawal, but heavy weapons and continued deployments keep the eastern conflict fragile.