Africa: All of Africa Today – November 9, 2026

A severe collision between two passenger trains in Egypt’s Giza province killed seven people and injured more than 100, authorities reported. One train struck the rear of another on the Cairo‑Aswan line, causing a derailment and overturned carriages. Emergency crews dispatched over 50 ambulances and worked to clear the railway. President Abdel‑Fattah el‑Sissi ordered a full investigation and warned that anyone found negligent would be held accountable. Local hospitals were placed on heightened alert to manage the influx of patients. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

ANC Suffers Historic Defeat in South Africa’s 2026 Local Elections

South Africa’s Electoral Commission certified the 2026 Local Government Elections as free and fair, with a national voter turnout of 52%, up from 45.9% in 2021. The African National Congress (ANC) secured 30.76% of the vote, marking its worst electoral performance to date and losing outright majorities in several major municipalities. The Democratic Alliance (DA) placed second with 24.64% and retained control of Cape Town. The newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK) came third with 9.76%, followed by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) at 6.22%. With 127 of 213 councils hung, coalition talks are expected. The IEC reported a largely peaceful process, with 90% of voters deeming it free and 91% fair. The outcome reflects growing public frustration over municipal service delivery, unemployment, crime and corruption.

Dozens Dead After Migrant Boat Sinks Off Senegal

A boat carrying migrants attempting to reach Spain’s Canary Islands sank off north‑west Senegal near Kebemer, killing at least 34 people. Senegalese authorities initially recovered 21 bodies and rescued one survivor, with the death toll later rising. The incident adds to the devastating loss of life on the Atlantic migration route, which has claimed thousands in recent years. Meanwhile, the Spanish island of El Hierro declared an emergency after more than 3,300 arrivals in roughly 30 vessels over the past month, straining local facilities and emergency services.

Ruto Urges Opposition to Offer Concrete Development Plans

President William Ruto called on Kenyan opposition leaders to present clear development blueprints, warning that electing politicians lacking viable solutions would jeopardize the nation’s future. Speaking at an interdenominational service in Nyamira County, Ruto stressed that leaders should be judged by their policies and ability to address challenges such as the high cost of living, unemployment, education, agriculture and infrastructure. He highlighted his government’s achievements, including road investments, expanded healthcare, electricity access and the hiring of 100,000 teachers. Recent allocations include 1.2 billion shillings to modernize tea factories in the Rift Valley and 11 billion shillings for 180 kilometres of tarmac roads, a new hospital and an international stadium in Nyamira.

UN Alerts of Severe Aid Shortfalls Amid Sudan’s Growing Displacement

UN agencies have issued an urgent appeal for international assistance to support millions displaced by Sudan’s war, warning that humanitarian supplies are critically low. Since April 2023, fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces has left an estimated 15.4 million people in need of shelter, food and other essential aid. Funding gaps currently allow relief organizations to assist only about one in ten of those affected. The International Organization for Migration reports its emergency warehouses are empty, while the UN refugee agency notes that women and children make up three‑quarters of the internally displaced population. Over 5.2 million people have returned to their areas of origin, yet many face destroyed homes and lack of basic services. Sudan’s 2026 humanitarian response plan, requiring $2.9 billion, has received only 47% of its funding.

Somalia to Move HirShabelle Capital to Hiiraan Amid Political Tensions

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud announced that the regional capital of HirShabelle will be relocated to the Hiiraan region to address growing political tensions, particularly grievances from the Hawadle clan. Speaking at the inauguration of HirShabelle’s new leadership, Mohamud said Hiiraan residents have been granted the right to host the capital but must select a suitable city for government operations. The decision follows mounting dissatisfaction among political groups in Beledweyne over representation, the capital’s location and the administration’s leadership. Mohamud urged residents and opposition groups to remain calm and avoid retaliatory actions, emphasizing that their concerns have been acknowledged. The final relocation will require a formal decision by HirShabelle’s leadership in line with the regional constitution. Vice President Abdifitah Hassan Afrah is holding talks in Beledweyne to ease tensions and encourage dialogue.

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