West and Central Africa: Latest events at a glance (22–28 July 2025)

Nigeria
Flooding kills 23, displaces thousands in Adamawa State

On 27 July, heavy rains triggered flash floods in Yola, Adamawa State, in the north-east, killing at least 23 people, injuring dozens, and displacing thousands. Several neighbourhoods – including Shagari Lowcost, Sabon Pegi, Modire, Yolde Pate, and Anguwan Tana – were submerged, with poor drainage systems exacerbating the impact. The state government has opened shelters and launched search and rescue operations, while the Adamawa State Emergency Management Agency, the Nigerian Red Cross, and IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix are conducting rapid assessments. Humanitarian organizations are deploying prepositioned cholera kits, WASH supplies, and water treatment chemicals to help prevent disease outbreaks. Authorities are also warning of further rainfall and urging residents in flood-prone areas to move to higher ground.

The Gambia
Mpox case detected, response underway

On 23 July, Gambian health authorities confirmed a case of mpox during a routine disease surveillance operation. The patient has been isolated and is receiving care at a treatment centre. A contact tracing process is underway, and neighbouring Senegal has raised its alert level. Given the proximity of affected areas to the border and the regional resurgence of mpox, authorities are closely monitoring the risk of cross-border transmission.

Central African Republic
Civilians killed in armed attack near Birao amid ongoing insecurity

On 27 July, four civilians were killed and around 10 others injured during an attack by unidentified armed elements in the village of Am-Groumaye, located 32 km of Birao, in the northeast. The injured were taken to Birao District Hospital for treatment. In response, local youths from a self-defense group pursued the assailants, several among them were also reportedly injured, according to local sources. Humanitarian organizations are monitoring the situation closely, amid recurring attacks and population displacements in the region.

Democratic Republic of the Congo
Deadly attack on civilians displaces thousands in Ituri

On the night of 26 and 27 July, a deadly attack by unidentified armed elements targeted civilians sheltering in a church in Komanda, northeastern Irumu Territory, Ituri Province. Preliminary reports indicate that at least 43 civilians were killed and 15 others wounded, many remain missing. The assailants also reportedly set fire to several vehicles and homes. The violence has displaced people toward Marobo and the provincial capital, Bunia, both in the northeast. In response to the deteriorating security, civilian and humanitarian actors have suspended movement along key road axes. OCHA is actively engaging with provincial authorities in Ituri to address protection concerns while implementing preventative measures.