This article outlines the escalation of violence in Africa as of February 2025, highlighting deadly conflicts in the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Niger, Somalia, and Sudan. Notable increases in civilian targeting, territorial gains, and terrorist offensives are discussed, emphasizing the urgent need for international awareness.
The violence in the Central African Republic intensified as deadly attacks against ethnic Fulani pastoralists surged. The conflict erupted due to a robbery involving the Anti-balaka militias and Fulani groups, leading to 130 civilian fatalities, predominantly affecting the Fulani community. This escalation marks February 2025 as the deadliest month in the country since March 2022, when the Wagner Group’s actions prompted widespread violence against civilians.
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the March 23 Movement (M23) and the Rwandan Defense Force advanced into South Kivu, capturing the regional capital of Bukavu. This offensive deteriorated the relationship between the Congolese army and allied militias, exacerbating civilian targeting, which escalated amid the chaos. Reports indicate that nearly half of these attacks were conducted by FARDC soldiers, leading to severe consequences for the local civilian population.
Ghana experienced an increase in violence related to the Bawku chieftaincy dispute as tensions spilled into the North East region. The conflict, rooted in historical divisions between the Mamprusia and Kusasi groups, intensified following the return of chief Alhaji Seidu Abagre from exile. This situation resulted in attacks against civilians, increasing the risks of Islamist armed groups exploiting the instability.
In Niger, the Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP) launched a significant offensive, resulting in a rise in fatalities as they targeted military forces and civilian populations. The increase in violence coincides with ISSP’s strategy to control territory and push back against the government’s influence, leading to a notable uptick in casualties compared to the previous month.
The joint airstrike campaign by Puntland state security, the UAE, and the US significantly intensified in Somalia, focusing on targets linked to the Islamic State Somalia Province. The operations aimed at dismantling the growing IS threat in the region with unprecedented airstrikes, which raised concerns regarding IS’s presence and influence amidst increased militant activities.
In Sudan, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) made considerable territorial gains in February, capturing key strategic points within Khartoum and beyond. This offensive began in September 2024 and has led to control over critical locations, enhancing supply routes and operational capabilities against the Rapid Support Forces, further escalating the ongoing conflict.
The regional dynamics in Africa have witnessed a concerning escalation of violence across several countries. In the Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, deadly conflicts have severely affected civilian populations and exacerbated existing tensions. In Ghana, the resurgence of historical disputes risks further instability, while Niger faces mounting fatalities due to jihadist offensives. Somalia’s enhanced military operations against insurgents raise critical questions about ongoing threats, and Sudan’s territorial advancements reflect a complex battle for control. The situation warrants continued monitoring and international attention.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
