West and Central Africa: Latest Events at a glance (10–16 February 2026)

Burkina Faso

Nearly 290,000 returnees need urgent support in Koulsé

Nearly 290,000 returnees require urgent humanitarian support: As of early 2026, approximately 288,888 IDPs have returned to their areas of origin across Koulsé region, with the largest concentrations in Sandbondtenga province (Centre-North), according to regional authorities. Many returnees had been displaced since 2019 and are returning to locations where homes and basic infrastructure are damaged or destroyed, and access to essential services remains limited. While targeted assistance has begun, including food assistance and dignity kits for 1,000 households, significant needs persist across sectors. Priority gaps include food assistance, essential household items, rehabilitation of more than 100 water points and six health facilities, and reconstruction of 2,400 shelters across 20 return localities, particularly in Pissila.

Central African Republic

Heavy rains damage homes near Kaga-Bandoro

Between 10 and 11 February, heavy rainfall and strong winds hit several villages located 30 km from Kaga-Bandoro, in the north-central part of the country, injuring six people and causing the collapse of about 100 homes, affecting over 400 people. The injured are receiving treatment at the hospital. OCHA is coordinating with local authorities and humanitarian partners to assess needs and support the response.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

CERF releases funds as cholera outbreak escalates

OCHA warns that the worsening cholera outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo requires an urgent scale-up of response. Since the start of 2026, more than 1,300 suspected cases and 35 deaths have been reported, marking the country’s worst outbreak in 25 years. Despite ongoing support from the Government, UN, and partners, major gaps persist, particularly in water, sanitation and hygiene, overstretched health services and limited supplies. On 17 February, $750,000 was allocated from the Central Emergency Response Fund to enable humanitarian partners to rapidly expand life-saving health assistance and curb transmission. Urgent and flexible funding is required to strengthen health services, replenish supplies and enhance surveillance in affected areas.

Renewed insecurity disrupts aid in Bule

Between 13 and 16 January, a temporary improvement in the security situation in Bule, North-East of the country, allowed humanitarian partners to gradually resume operations, including cash assistance for shelter and non-food items, and essential health and protection services. Since 4 February, renewed clashes have forced the suspension of several planned interventions, including food distributions. Ongoing insecurity has cut off more than 78,000 displaced people in Bule and surrounding areas from humanitarian assistance, worsening critical needs for food, health care and safe water.