West and Central Africa: Latest events at a glance (04 - 10 February 2025)

Burkina Faso

Nearly 2,000 displaced in Yatenga province amid rising insecurity

On 6 February, provincial authorities reported the arrival of nearly 2,000 displaced people in Ouahigouya, fleeing escalating insecurity and eviction threats from three villages in Barga commune since December 2024. Many took longer routes through Koro town in Mali to avoid risks. Authorities have highlighted urgent needs for food and essential supplies. Yatenga province continues to face persistent insecurity, with over 15 civilians abducted since January in several communes. Insecurity continues to threaten civilians as they farm, gather firewood, or travel. Humanitarian partners are adjusting response efforts to strengthen protection.

Niger

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) outbreak declared in Niamey

On 6 February, Nigerien authorities confirmed a Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) outbreak at a family-run poultry farm in the Nord Faisceau district of Niamey. Following laboratory confirmation, the Governor of Niamey issued a decree declaring a 10-kilometer radius around the city an infected zone. In response, authorities announced strict containment measures, including the mass culling of infected poultry, thorough disinfection of affected sites, and strict quarantine measures to control poultry movements and high-risk vehicles. Veterinary services are on high alert, implementing enhanced surveillance and biosecurity measures to contain the outbreak.

Mali

Nearly 650 people flee near Gao following an armed group attack in Anchawadji

On 3 February, the Protection Cluster reported the arrival of 107 households (642 people) to the Assahaba site, 15 km from Gao, following increased insecurity in Anchawadji, approximately 40 km northeast of Gao, on 26 January. The incident left two men injured, and livestock was looted. OCHA is closely monitoring the situation to coordinate a response if needed.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Around 116,000 people return to their villages in North Kivu

As of 10 February, local sources report relative calm in Goma, with a gradual resumption of socio-economic activities. While some banks and private universities have reopened, schools and public services remain closed despite calls from armed groups’ authorities to resume operations. Initial reports from humanitarian actors estimate that around 116,000 displaced people from Goma and surrounding areas have returned to their villages in the territories of Masisi, Nyiragongo, and Rutshuru. Humanitarian actors plan to begin assessments in return areas on 11 February to evaluate needs and coordinate the response. Furthermore, on 9 February, armed groups issued a 72-hour ultimatum for displaced people and humanitarian actors to leave the Kanyaruchinya IDP site. This situation is expected to trigger a wave of forced returns and the unplanned destruction of site facilities, including water supply systems and health services.