The latest ACLED Regional Overview for Africa, published in November 2025, sheds light on the evolving landscape of political violence and instability across the continent. Drawing on comprehensive data and on-the-ground reports, the analysis highlights key conflict hotspots, emerging trends, and shifting dynamics that continue to shape security conditions in various African regions. As governments, humanitarian organizations, and international actors navigate these challenges, the report offers critical insights essential for informed response and policy planning. This edition underscores the ongoing complexities of Africa’s security environment amid changing social, economic, and political pressures.
ACLED Reports Surge in Armed Clashes Across Central Africa Highlighting Escalating Regional Instability
The latest ACLED data reveals a marked escalation in armed confrontations throughout Central Africa, underscoring a deteriorating security environment that is raising alarms among regional stakeholders. Key hotspots such as the border areas between the Central African Republic, Chad, and the Democratic Republic of Congo have experienced a surge in violent encounters, with non-state armed groups intensifying their operations. These clashes have not only increased in frequency but have also become deadlier, complicating humanitarian access and exacerbating displacement crises in an already fragile region.
Notable trends observed in November 2025:
- Expansion of conflict zones, particularly around resource-rich regions sensitive to factional control
- Heightened involvement of transnational armed coalitions exploiting porous borders
- Rising casualty rates among civilian populations caught in crossfire
- Disruption of vital supply chains impacting food and medical aid delivery
| Country | Number of Armed Clashes | Civilian Displacements | Fatalities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central African Republic | 154 | 12,500 | 230 |
| Chad | 97 | 8,300 | 125 |
| Democratic Republic of Congo | 203 | 17,800 | 310 |
Humanitarian Impact Intensifies as Conflict Displaces Thousands in the Sahel and Horn of Africa
Across the Sahel and the Horn of Africa, escalating violence has forced tens of thousands to flee their homes, deepening a region-wide humanitarian crisis. The convergence of armed conflict, drought, and food insecurity is straining local resources and overwhelming humanitarian agencies. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) are facing dire conditions, including limited access to clean water, healthcare, and shelter. In particular, communities in central Mali, eastern Burkina Faso, Somalia, and northern Ethiopia have reported significant population movements as fighting intensifies between armed groups and state forces.
Key humanitarian challenges reported include:
- Overcrowded displacement camps lacking adequate sanitation
- Rising malnutrition rates among children under five
- Obstructed delivery of aid due to ongoing security threats
- Heightened risk of gender-based violence in displacement settings
| Country | Estimated IDPs (Thousands) | Most Affected Regions |
|---|---|---|
| Mali | 120 | Central, Mopti |
| Burkina Faso | 85 | Sahel, Nord |
| Somalia | 150 | Mudug, Galmudug |
| Ethiopia | 180 | Tigray, Afar |
Experts Urge Coordinated International Response to Address Growing Security and Humanitarian Crises
Regional experts warn that the escalating security challenges across Africa demand a unified approach to prevent further destabilization and humanitarian fallout. Conflicts in several hotspots are increasingly interconnected, with spillover effects threatening neighboring countries’ stability. Addressing these crises requires concerted diplomatic efforts, intelligence sharing, and coordinated peacekeeping initiatives involving local governments, international organizations, and multilateral coalitions to halt the cycle of violence and displacement.
Humanitarian agencies stress that fragmented responses risk exacerbating the suffering of millions caught in conflict zones. Key areas of concern highlighted include:
- Protection of vulnerable populations, especially women and children
- Improved access for aid workers in conflict-affected regions
- Long-term strategies to rebuild infrastructure and support displaced communities
The table below summarizes recent trends underscoring the urgency of a unified response:
| Region | Conflict Incidents (Nov 2025) | Displaced Persons (Thousands) | Humanitarian Access (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sahel | 135 | 720 | 45 |
| Horn of Africa | 98 | 540 | 52 |
| Great Lakes | 76 | 310 | 60 |
Key Takeaways
As November 2025 draws to a close, the ACLED Regional Overview for Africa underscores the persistent challenges and evolving dynamics shaping the continent’s security landscape. Continued vigilance and coordinated responses remain crucial as governments, regional bodies, and international partners seek to address the root causes of conflict and instability. The data presented offers essential insights for policymakers and analysts tracking these developments, highlighting the urgent need for sustained engagement to promote peace and stability across Africa.
