All articles tagged with #republic of congo
Longtime President Denis Sassou N’Guesso was sworn in for another term in the Republic of Congo after the 2026 election, cementing his decades-long hold on power as images from the Brazzaville polling station underscore the ceremony.
In the oil-rich Republic of Congo, wealth from oil has not lifted most people, with more than 40% living below the poverty line and youth unemployment high in a country where over 60% are under 25. Ahead of Denis Sassou Nguesso’s bid for another term, young voters cite a tight job market, poor infrastructure, and unaffordable basics, while experts warn that an oil-fueled rentier state hampers diversification and reform. Despite government claims of improving unemployment, many youths remain skeptical or disengaged, hoping for jobs and meaningful change rather than empty promises as the election approaches.
The Republic of Congo has reported its first cases of mpox virus in several regions, indicating potential spread across Africa since sexual transmission was confirmed last year. The virus, originating in wild animals, was previously known as monkeypox and has been a focus of global concern due to an international outbreak in 2022. The World Health Organization has warned that sexual transmission could make the disease difficult to contain, and experts believe that the reported figures in Africa are likely an underestimate due to limited testing facilities and prejudice against LGBTQ+ communities.