US sanctions Rwandan army

US sanctions Rwandan army

Author: BBC World Service March 4, 2026 Duration: 22:59

On this episode, we examine the future of the US-brokered peace deal after Washington sanctioned Rwanda’s defence forces and senior military officials over the eastern DR Congo conflict. Kigali calls the move is unfair and accuses the DRC of failing to meet its own commitments. Meanwhile, Ethiopia has opened its first unmanned police station in Addis Ababa, letting citizens report crimes digitally. The pilot is part of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s push to modernize public services, but is raising questions about adoption and data protection.

Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producer: Keikantse Shumba, Daniel Dadzie and Ayuba Iliya Technical Producer: Jonathan Mwangi Senior Producers: Bella Twine and Blessing Aderogba Editors: Samuel Murunga and Maryam Abdalla


Each weekday, as the afternoon draws to a close, Focus on Africa provides a thoughtful and necessary pause to understand the continent's dynamic pulse. Produced by the BBC World Service, this daily podcast goes beyond headlines, unpacking two essential stories with depth and context. The reporting doesn't just explain the major events shaping nations and communities; it deliberately highlights the individuals living through these changes, ensuring the human dimension of every story is heard. Furthermore, the program offers a vital African perspective on worldwide events, examining how global developments resonate locally. Under the steady guidance of host Nkechi Ogbonna, listeners are offered clarity and insight, making complex issues accessible. This reliable briefing is crafted to fit into your routine, arriving before the evening with the authority and nuance you expect. Tuning into this podcast means connecting with a nuanced portrait of a continent, its people, and its place in the world, all delivered with journalistic rigor five days a week.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 922

Focus on Africa
Podcast Episodes
Why are US soldiers  leaving Chad? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:26
The U.S. has withdrawn its troops from Chad, this follows a similar move in neighbouring Niger. The head of the US Africa Command says it was "temporary repositioning" of troops. What does he mean and how damaging is thi…
Why has an arrest warrant been issued for CAR's ex-president? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:05
A UN-backed special court has issued an international arrest warrant for the former president of the Central African Republic, François Bozizé. This is in connection with an investigation into his alleged involvement in…
Why is there International concern about Al-Fashir in Sudan? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:54
The U.S. has warned of a looming potential "large scale massacre" in Al-Fashir, a city in Sudan. The United Nations says it's also concerned about a possible imminent attack. What's going on? Also state TV in Mali says t…
How do South Africans feel as they mark 30 years of democracy? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:06
It is 30 years since South Africa held its first democratic elections. Three decades on, is it hope or gloom for the 'rainbow nation'?Also did a national emergency against sexual violence set up 5 years ago, make any dif…
Why has the World Bank suspended a Tanzania tourism project fund? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:08
The World Bank has suspended a multi million dollar fund to expand Ruaha National Park in Tanzania, after it received allegations of serious abuse, which the Tanzanian government denies. We'll get the details. What is cl…
Does Africa need a rethink on tackling violent extremisim? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:12
African leaders meeting at a security summit in Nigeria says the continent needs a new plan to tackle violent extremism. The two-day counter-terrorism summit, supported by the United Nations, was also attended by African…
What does the Rwanda Bill mean for Africa? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:11
The UK parliament has passed the Rwanda asylum law. People arriving on small boats can have their asylum claims processed in Rwanda. When is this likely to take place and why is it of global significance?Why is Zimbabwe'…
What threat do autonomous weapons pose to West African countries? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:18
Sierra Leone's President Julius Maada Bio has urged regional leaders to forge common understanding and develop strategies to address the challenges posed by Autonomous Weapons Systems. What are autonomous weapons and wha…