International Committee of the Red Cross highlights 50 ongoing clashes across the continent, underscoring urgent humanitarian challenges.
By Burnett Munthali
Africa accounts for roughly 40 percent of the world’s armed conflicts, according to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
On Thursday, the ICRC reported that some 50 ongoing clashes are currently taking place across the continent.
The organization emphasized that these conflicts span multiple regions, affecting millions of people and placing severe strain on local communities and humanitarian aid efforts.
The ICRC’s findings highlight a persistent pattern of violence in areas such as the Sahel, the Great Lakes region, and parts of East and Central Africa.
Civilian populations remain the hardest hit, with many facing displacement, food insecurity, and limited access to essential healthcare services.
Humanitarian agencies continue to struggle with operational challenges, including security risks, restricted access, and insufficient resources to meet growing needs.
The Red Cross urged international actors and regional governments to prioritize conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and support for affected populations.
Experts note that the high concentration of armed conflicts in Africa underscores the need for coordinated diplomatic and security interventions.
The ICRC also stressed the importance of upholding international humanitarian law and protecting civilians caught in the crossfire of these ongoing conflicts.
With conflicts persisting across the continent, the organization called for increased global attention and funding to mitigate human suffering and prevent further escalation.