Top 5 Today: Emergency Responses on DRC-M23 War and Other Headlines
International bodies and governments have convened emergency meetings to address the DR Congo vs M23 rebel soldiers crisis. On January 27, 2025, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) held an emergency session to discuss the war in in eastern DRC especially the fall of Goma to the rebels. The Council demanded ceasefire from all parties and withdrawal of all external forces in the region.
The AU Peace and Security Council also convened an emergency ministerial meeting on January 28, 2025, to address the same. It focused on the urgent need for a ceasefire and the withdrawal of all foreign forces from the region. The meeting underscored the importance of dialogue and peaceful resolution to prevent further destabilization
France is actively seeking international support for a UNSC resolution to hold Rwanda accountable for its alleged support of the rebel group. The resolution seeks to impose sanctions on Rwanda to deter further involvement in the conflict.
The conflict has led to significant humanitarian concerns, with reports of widespread violence, looting, and civilian casualties. Hospitals are overwhelmed with the influx of wounded individuals, and many civilians have been displaced, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation.
The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, with ongoing efforts to mediate and find a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Kenya’s President William Ruto called for mediation talks, in an emergency meeting (online) yesterday, South Africa absconded the meeting.
Trump Reverses Freeze Order After Backlash
On January 27, 2025, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a directive to temporarily halt the disbursement of federal grants and loans, aiming to review funding allocations, particularly those related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This pause led to widespread confusion and concerns about potential disruptions to essential services, including healthcare and housing programs.
In response to the ensuing backlash, the Trump administration reversed the freeze on January 29, 2025, allowing critical life-saving programs related to medicine, food, and shelter to continue. However, other foreign aid efforts remain paused unless specific waivers are granted.
Additionally, on January 28, 2025, U.S. District Judge Loren L. AliKhan temporarily blocked the administration’s freeze on federal grants and loans, providing relief to states, schools, and organizations dependent on federal funding. The judge’s decision was in response to a lawsuit filed by nonprofit groups challenging the legality of the freeze.
These developments underscore the complexities and challenges associated with implementing broad funding freezes and highlight the importance of clear communication and consideration of potential impacts on essential services.
Prof Bethwel Ogot Passes on After a Short Illness
Politicians and other leaders have today paid tribute to renown Kenyan historian and scholar, Professor Bethwell Allan Ogot. Ogot, 95, is reported to have passed on today, January 30, 2025, at a hospital in Kisumu after a short illness.
Bethwel was a distinguished academic scholar who took special inyerest in African history. The Maseno School and Makerere University College old boy held significant positions, including serving as the Chancellor of Moi University until early 2013.
His passing has elicited tributes from various leaders. Siaya Governor James Orengo described him as “one of the greatest scholars of our time,” noting that “he has left a legacy of seminal works and historical treatises.” Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga also mourned his death, stating that “Kenya, and indeed the world, has lost a treasure who will be deeply missed.”
Professor Ogot’s contributions to academia and his extensive scholarly works have left an indelible mark on the understanding of African history. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Ogot, 95, was the husband of the late Grace Ogot, a journalist and politician who passed away in 2015.
Grace Njoki’s Afya House Case Withdrawn Following MPs Order
The Ministry of Health has withdrawn its case against Grace Njoki, who was arrested after interrupting Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Barasa’s press briefing at Afya House on January 15, 2025.
The decision came after discussions during a parliamentary retreat in Naivasha, where lawmakers questioned Medical Services PS Harry Kimtai about the necessity of the charges. Speaker Moses Wetangula advised reconsidering the complaint, emphasizing that no harm was caused during the incident. In response, PS Kimtai agreed to withdraw the complaint in the interest of public image.
Grace Njoki had been arrested on January 23 while seeking medical treatment at Ladnan Hospital in Pangani. She was later released on a Ksh.10,000 cash bail. Njoki stated that her actions were driven by a desire to advocate for patients’ rights, expressing concerns about inefficiencies in the Social Health Authority (SHA) and their impact on Kenyan healthcare.
Following the withdrawal of the case, PS Kimtai also committed to establishing a dedicated unit within the Ministry to support individuals facing challenges with the SHA and to address other
Helicopter and Airline Collide Mid Air in USA
On January 29, 2025, a tragic mid-air collision occurred near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Washington, D.C. An American Airlines regional passenger jet, identified as a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ701, collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, specifically a Sikorsky H-60 model. The passenger jet was carrying 64 individuals, including crew members. Following the collision, both aircraft crashed into the Potomac River. Rescue operations are ongoing, but officials fear that more than 60 people may have perished in the incident.
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