World in Brief: EU boosts Africa aid, landslides hit New Zealand, Trump launches board of peace, other stories
EU pledges €557m humanitarian aid for Nigeria, other African states
The European Union has announced €557 million in humanitarian funding for Nigeria and other African countries as part of its €1.9 billion global aid budget for 2026. The EU delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS said part of the funding would be directed to Nigeria’s north-west, where insecurity and displacement remain severe. The pledge was unveiled by Hadja Lahbib, European commissioner for equality, preparedness and crisis management, at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Lahbib said the global humanitarian system was under unprecedented strain. She warned that public funding alone would not be enough to meet rising needs. The announcement comes as aid agencies face growing shortfalls across conflict-affected regions of Africa, businessday.ng reported.
Landslides in New Zealand leave children among the missing
Rescue teams in New Zealand are searching for several missing people, including children, after landslides hit parts of the North Island following days of heavy rain. The most serious incident occurred at Mount Maunganui, where a landslide struck a holiday park during the final week of the summer school holidays. Campervans and a shower block were hit, with authorities still unable to confirm how many people are missing. Roads have been closed and evacuations ordered in nearby areas. Mark Mitchell, Emergency management ministesaid rescue efforts were continuing but were slowed by unstable ground. Officials warned of further landslide risks as rain continues.
World’s oldest cave painting discovered on remote Indonesian Island
Archaeologists say they have identified the world’s oldest known cave painting on Indonesia’s Muna Island. The artwork is a hand stencil dated to at least 67,800 years ago, making it older than similar finds in Europe.
Researchers say it was created by placing a hand on limestone and blowing pigment around it to form an outline. The fingers were later reshaped, suggesting symbolic intent rather than a simple mark. The painting was dated using uranium-thorium analysis of mineral layers over the pigment. Scientists say the discovery reshapes understanding of early human creativity and symbolic behaviour.
Trump launches ‘board of peace’ with $1bn membership pledge
Donald Trump, the United States president, has formally launched his proposed Board of Peace at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Representatives from Bahrain and Morocco signed the founding charter during the ceremony. Trump said permanent membership would require a contribution of one billion dollars. He described the price tag as a test of seriousness and influence. Originally linked to post-war reconstruction in Gaza, the board’s charter does not refer to the territory. Instead, it outlines a broad mandate that overlaps with roles traditionally associated with the United Nations.
Macron’s Davos sunglasses send eyewear stock soaring
Shares in Italian eyewear company iVision Tech surged after Emmanuel Macron, the French president, appeared wearing aviator sunglasses at Davos. The moment went viral, prompting speculation about the brand behind the glasses. Reuters reported that iVision Tech shares jumped nearly 28 percent, adding about €3.5 million to its market value. The company later confirmed that Macron wore the Pacific S 01 model by its French luxury brand Henry Jullien. The glasses retail for €659. Trading in the stock was briefly halted due to volatility, marking one of its strongest ever performances.
AFRICA
Flood damage at Kruger National Park to cost millions
Severe flooding has caused extensive damage to South Africa’s Kruger National Park, with repairs expected to take years. Willie Aucamp, the Environment minister said hundreds of millions of rand would be needed to restore infrastructure. Heavy rains forced the temporary closure of the park last week after rivers burst their banks. At least 15 tourist camps remain closed, some completely cut off. Hundreds of visitors and staff were evacuated safely. No deaths were reported, but tourism revenue is expected to be heavily affected.
Guinea-Bissau junta sets December election date
Guinea-Bissau’s military rulers have announced that presidential and legislative elections will be held on December 6. The announcement comes two months after soldiers seized power and suspended an ongoing vote. A decree read by transitional leader General Horta N Tam said conditions were now in place for a credible ballot. A newly published transitional charter bars N Tam from running in the election. The military overthrew Umaro Sissoco Embalo shortly after November’s presidential vote. The junta said the intervention was necessary to prevent violence.
Mali president tightens control over mining sector
Mali’s military leader has created a new ministerial-level post to oversee the mining sector, tightening presidential control over the country’s gold industry. The role carries powers previously held by the mines ministry, including oversight of compliance and mining policy. Hilaire Bebian Diarra, a former Barrick Mining executive, has been appointed to the position. Diarra previously advised the presidency during negotiations over the Loulo-Gounkoto gold complex. Mali is one of Africa’s largest gold producers. The move is seen as part of a broader push for greater state influence over natural resources.
Concern grows over health of detained Ugandan opposition figure
The wife of detained Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye has said his health is deteriorating and his condition is worrying. Winnie Byanyima told Reuters that Besigye is suffering from fever, stomach pain, dehydration and difficulty walking. Besigye has been in detention for more than a year after his arrest and extradition from Kenya. He faces treason and other charges, which his supporters describe as politically motivated. President Yoweri Museveni was declared winner of last week’s election with nearly 72 percent of the vote. Opposition figures continue to contest the result amid reports of arrests and intimidation.
Uganda detains ally of Bobi Wine after election violence
Ugandan police have detained Muwanga Kivumbi, a senior ally of opposition leader Bobi Wine. Authorities accuse the lawmaker of involvement in election-related violence in central Uganda. Police say seven people were killed during unrest in Kivumbi’s constituency. Kivumbi has denied responsibility, saying the victims were shot by security forces. Bobi Wine says he is in hiding following the election. Tensions remain high as opposition parties reject the official results.
Faith Omoboye is a foreign affairs correspondent with background in History and International relations. Her work focuses on African politics, diplomacy, and global governance.
Credit | BUSINESSDAY MEDIA LTD.
