A wave of political and economic turmoil is sweeping across the continent, from gold mine looting in Congo to tense elections in Cameroon and rising Gen Z protests in Madagascar — exposing deepening divisions and escalating conflict in Africa.
Gold Mine Looting in Congo Deepens Regional Instability
Rebels from the M23 group have allegedly stolen over 500 kilograms of gold — valued at nearly $70 million — from the Twangiza Mining concession in South Kivu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The company accused insiders of aiding the gold mine looting, claiming the rebels used underground tunnels to smuggle gold while destroying power facilities with drones.
Twangiza Mining, a Chinese-owned firm headquartered in Congo, said it has declared force majeure and will seek redress through national and international legal channels. The attack occurred amid renewed fighting in mineral-rich regions, worsening the conflict in Africa and displacing thousands.
The firm also reported losing contact with 150 workers and accused the rebels of destroying churches, expelling villagers, and using Rwandan technicians to extract more gold — allegations Rwanda denies despite multiple UN reports linking it to M23 operations.
Cameroon on Edge Amid Contested Elections
In Cameroon, political tensions are at a peak as opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary declared victory ahead of official election results. Dozens of protesters were detained in Garoua after demonstrations broke out, with 20 people now facing military court charges for “insurrection.”
President Paul Biya, in power since 1982, faces growing calls to concede amid accusations of corruption and voter manipulation. Election observers have cited irregularities including missing ballots and polling station changes. The final results are expected by October 26, but unrest is already adding to the broader conflict in Africa narrative.
Gen Z Protests Challenge New Leadership in Madagascar
In Madagascar, the youth-led Gen Z protests that triggered a coup last week have now rejected the appointment of businessman Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo as prime minister. Activists accused new military ruler Colonel Michael Randrianirina of “betraying” their revolution by installing an insider tied to the previous government.
“Our revolution will not be hijacked,” the Gen Z Mada movement declared on social media, vowing continued demonstrations. The protests began over power shortages and evolved into a national uprising demanding reform — a striking symbol of generational frustration spreading across the conflict in Africa.
Other Developments Across the Continent
Uganda’s election commission has scheduled national polls for January 15, where President Yoweri Museveni, 80, seeks a seventh term after nearly 40 years in power. His main rival, Bobi Wine, alleges repeated fraud and intimidation.
In Sudan, drone strikes near Khartoum airport delayed the long-awaited reopening of domestic flights, underscoring the fragility of peace. Meanwhile, Ethiopia mourns after a train derailment in Shinile killed 15 and injured nearly 30, in one of the deadliest transport disasters this year.
Conclusion
From Congo’s gold mine looting to Madagascar’s Gen Z protests, these stories paint a sobering picture of escalating conflict in Africa — a continent at a crossroads between reform and unrest.
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This story was first reported by Africanews / Reuters / BBC Africa. Read the full article here.
