West and Central Africa: Latest Events at a glance (13–19 January 2026)

Mauritania

Continued refugee influx into Hodh-Chargui

Since mid-January 2026, Mauritania’s Hodh-Chargui region has continued to receive a steady flow of refugees fleeing insecurity and deteriorating living conditions in neighbouring Mali. The influx is placing growing strains on host communities and limited basic services in border areas, particularly in relation to shelter, food, water, sanitation and healthcare. Local authorities and humanitarian partners have been conducting rapid needs assessments. While some assistance has been delivered, coverage remains uneven, and significant gaps persist in registration, reception conditions and access to essential services. Humanitarians are calling for strengthened coordination, sustained funding and improved protection mechanisms to support both refugees and host communities in Hodh-Chargui.

Cameroon

114 suspected mpox cases since January 2025

Cameroon has recorded 114 suspected mpox cases, including confirmed cases, since 1 January 2025, with no deaths reported, according to the Ministry of Public Health on 13 January. The statement notes that five cases were confirmed between 14 November 2025 and 7 January 2026, with four reported in the Littoral region and one in the South-West region. It also warns the increase in cases in urban and semi-urban areas of the Littoral, combined with continued reporting of suspected cases in other regions, increases the risk of wider national spread.

Liberia

Unusual January rains raise flood risk

Liberia’s environmental authorities have warned that unusually heavy rains in January are signalling a deepening climate trend, with potential impacts on flooding, landslides, and livelihoods in vulnerable areas. National messaging has focused on heightened preparedness, including risks to housing, roads and essential services. Partners note that urban drainage constraints and settlement patterns can amplify impacts during intense rainfall episodes, particularly for low-income communities. Disaster management actors monitor conditions and coordinate readiness actions for rapid response if flooding escalates.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Civilian casualties and displacement reported in Uvira

On 18 January, looting during the withdrawal of armed elements from Uvira left at least five civilians killed and 20 injured. Despite relative calm since 19 January following army redeployment, the situation remains volatile. Around 2,400 people fled to Kamanyola (Walungu territory), where they are hosted by families and in collective centres, with urgent needs reported across multiple sectors. On 19 January, local authorities requested an emergency response. Humanitarian access remains constrained, with movements between Uvira and Baraka suspended and new access impediments reported along the Uvira–Bukavu road.