West and Central Africa: Latest events at a glance (20 - 26 May 2025)

Nigeria
Borno State Governor oversees final IDP relocation from Muna IDP Camp

On 24 May, Governor Babagana Zulum oversaw the final relocation of internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Muna Camp, part of a broader strategy to close all IDP camps in Maiduguri, Borno State, by 2027. Since 12 May, over 2,500 people (885 households) have been resettled in 1,250 new shelters in Koyebe village, while about 5,000 people (1,700 households) were relocated to Ajiri, where at least 640 new shelters were built. Each household received a support package including food, non-food items, and cash. Muna Camp had hosted over 32,600 people from nine Local Government Areas (LGAs), mostly from Dikwa and Mafa. Returns were directed to communities such as Awada, Momo, Bale, Gumshe, and Dogumba in Mafa and Dikwa LGAs. Governor Zulum urged returnees to engage in productive activities and collaborate with security actors to restore normalcy. Despite insecurity risks in some areas, humanitarian partners are working with the state to ensure returns are safe, voluntary, and dignified.

Central African Republic
Severe storm hits Nangha Boguila

On 23 May, a violent storm with strong winds struck the city of Nangha Boguila and its surrounding neighbourhoods in Ouham Prefecture, northern Central African Republic. Over 70 people were injured, and major material damage were caused, including more than 340 homes and classrooms destroyed. The injured received care from the medical team of the local NGO African Relief Service, while the most serious cases were transferred to the University Hospital of Bossangoa.

Democratic Republic of the Congo
Schools reopen in Djugu territory

On 21 May, local authorities reported that over 2,000 children, more than half of them girls, from 10 schools along the Lopa–Jina axis, in Ituri province, resumed classes. These schools in the north-east of the country had suspended activities due to clashes between the military and armed groups between 17 and 20 May. Additionally, between 5 and 14 May, 21 schools in Fataki Centre, Lilo, and Djugu reopened, allowing nearly 7,000 children, including 2,700 girls, to return to school after two months of disruption. The Education Cluster reports that significant needs remain unmet, including school supplies, teacher kits, latrines, and temporary learning spaces for 31 schools affected by ongoing armed violence. A comprehensive assessment by authorities and partners is essential to address needs and facilitate a safe and sustained return to education.

Floods affect 5,000 people in Fizi territory

On 21 May, local authorities confirmed that between January and May, more than 5,000 people have been affected by floods in about ten villages within the Kazimia and Yungu health areas, South Kivu province, in the east of the country. Torrential rains have caused the rising waters of Lake Tanganyika to flood over 870 houses, crop fields, latrines, several schools and health centres. The people displaced by the floods are staying with host families in dire conditions, with urgent needs for food, shelter, and protection. OCHA has engaged with partners to organize a rapid multisectoral assessment mission in the area, as many partners are preparing for assistance.