The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) said the strike on Friday evening also injured 113 people, completely destroyed the upper floor of the hospital’s emergency department, and caused extensive damage to the hospital’s infrastructure and medical equipment, adding that a number of victims remain trapped under the rubble as search and rescue operations continue.
The RSF called the strike a “blatant violation of international humanitarian law,” urging an independent international investigation to hold those responsible accountable.
Meanwhile, Mohamed Idris Khater, head of the civil administration in East Darfur, put the injuries at more than 90, and noted that most of the victims were women and children.
He said the strike, which completely destroyed the hospital’s emergency department, was a “direct targeting of a vital civilian institution.”
In a post on social media platform X, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Sudan said it is “appalled” by the strike, and stressed the need to protect civilians and healthcare workers.
The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) has not immediately commented on statements accusing it of launching the strike.
The SAF and RSF have been at war since April 2023. The conflict has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced millions inside Sudan and across the region. East Darfur, including its capital Al-Daein, has been under the control of the RSF since the early months of the conflict.
More than 60 people, including 12 children, were killed in a drone strike on Al-Daein Teaching Hospital in East Darfur, western Sudan, local and UN sources said.
As attacks between the warring sides continue, shipping through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital global transport chokepoint, has been heavily disrupted.
Beyond the energy and shipping sectors, the global food supply is also feeling the pinch, reflected in a sharp surge in food prices and warnings from UN agencies.
How does the crisis hit food production?
The Gulf region not only produces a significant portion of the world’s fertilizer but also supplies key raw materials, with roughly one-third of global seaborne fertilizer trade passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
As transport through the Strait of Hormuz is largely disrupted, natural gas, the essential feedstock for nitrogen fertilizers, has become difficult to deliver to major agricultural producers such as Brazil and Sudan. Meanwhile, fertilizer producers in India and Pakistan are also struggling to secure raw materials.
Phosphate fertilizers face similar disruption. Gulf states accounts for roughly one-fifth of the world’s phosphate fertilizer output and one-quarter of the world’s sulfur supply, a petrochemicals’ byproduct used to process phosphate. With exports largely halted, the supply shock is cascading across fertilizer markets.
The timing compounds the crisis. Across the Northern Hemisphere, from Europe to North America, farmers typically purchase fertilizer in March for application in April and May. Fertilizer shortages could force growers to reduce usage or shift to less input-intensive crops — decisions that may translate into lower yields months later.
A fire breaks out on a Thai cargo ship after it was struck in the Strait of Hormuz on March 11, 2026.
How do energy prices affect food costs?
Modern agriculture is deeply dependent on fossil fuels. Oil and natural gas power tractors, irrigation systems, and grain dryers; they also underpin fertilizer production, food processing, refrigeration, and transportation. Even packaging materials, from plastic wraps to storage containers, are derived from petrochemicals.
Global fertilizer prices have surged by roughly one-third since the conflict began. Plastics futures are also soaring, with chemical giant BASF announcing price increases of up to 20 percent for core plastic additives worldwide. Higher fuel prices are also pushing up shipping and logistics costs, which feed directly into food supply chains.
“If the crisis continues, transportation and food processing costs may rise further, and agricultural inputs such as fertilizers may become scarce,” Samina Sultan, an economist of the German Economic Institute, warned. “Supply risks could further push up agricultural product costs, leading to higher supermarket prices and triggering a new round of inflationary pressures.”
How could global food security be at risk?
The United Nations has warned that rising food and energy prices will hit hardest in developing countries and among low-income families, where food already accounts for a large share of spending.
“The conflict is already having immediate food security impacts in the Middle East. In Lebanon, significant internal displacement is occurring within a population that has been grappling with high levels of food insecurity for several years,” the World Food Programme (WFP) said in a recent report.
Humanitarian operations are also under strain.
“Extended shipping routes and congestion are jeopardizing WFP’s ability to reach vulnerable populations quickly, increasing the risk that people will wait longer for assistance and face heightened food insecurity and malnutrition,” added the report.
As the crisis deepens, what began as a regional conflict over energy and geopolitics is increasingly turning into a threat to the global food supply, with consequences measured not only in barrels of oil, but also in empty plates.
The Managing Director of BPR Bank, Patience Mutesi, delivered a keynote speech centred on the theme “Give to Gain.” She reminded attendees that while women often dedicate themselves to others as mothers, sisters, daughters, and professionals, it is equally important to take care of themselves.
“You are extraordinary in every way, but you cannot continue to be extraordinary if you neglect yourself,” Mutesi emphasised, underscoring the importance of self-care to prevent burnout and ensure long-term success.
Throughout the event, expert speakers shared practical tips on nutrition, fitness, and mental health, encouraging attendees to prioritise both physical and mental wellness. This included focusing on a balanced diet, regular exercise, and mindfulness practices to manage stress effectively.
A panel discussion, featuring four influential women from BPR Bank, Alphonsine Uwera, Jeannine Singa, Alizee Nanyonga, and Christine Kanzayire, was a highlight of the celebration. They shared their experiences of balancing demanding careers in the traditionally male-dominated banking sector with personal well-being.
Their insights highlighted the importance of time management, setting clear priorities, and building strong support systems. Alphonsine Uwera particularly emphasised the value of community, saying, “I know we all have a support system. It may be big or small, but everyone has one. These are the people who support us so much. The reason I’m sitting here today is because someone behind the scenes is doing an incredible job.”
The discussion also focused on the importance of investing in others and defining one’s personal circle. Alphonsine shared her experience of narrowing her social circle to those who genuinely support her, stating, “I used to have a lot of friends, and I feel like it’s my responsibility to be in everyone’s life. I’ve learned to have a small circle of friends, define my tribe, and invest in their support system.”
The panel further emphasised the need for support both at home and in the workplace, with each panellist stressing the importance of surrounding oneself with people who help each other grow. Their stories served as a powerful reminder of the resilience, strength, and determination required to succeed while uplifting others along the way.
Mutesi, on her part, also celebrated the diversity and strength of the women at BPR Bank, highlighting the 440 female employees who represent a remarkable force across its branches. She reminded the audience that their participation was a testament to the bank’s trust in their leadership potential.
“This is not just about celebrating you; it’s about recognising the leadership and potential you represent,” she said.
Mutesi urged women to lead by example and embody the values they wish to see in others.
“Each of us is a role model. Mentorship opportunities are valuable, but your daily actions leave a lasting impact,” the MD remarked, adding, “Let us be women who represent what we want to see among those we lead.”
She concluded by reminding the attendees that their roles as leaders, whether at home or in the workplace, extend beyond words and are demonstrated through actions, attitude, and behaviour.
The celebration left attendees inspired, reinforcing the message that leadership, integrity, and self-care go hand in hand, both at work and at home.
BPR Bank’s International Women’s Day celebration brought employees together to embrace self-care, empowerment, and the power of unity.Women at BPR Bank were empowered with essential tips on nutrition, self-care, and overall well-being. Zuba Mutesi, who was the MC, brought energy, excitement, and joy to BPR Bank’s International Women’s Day celebration.Throughout the event, expert speakers shared practical tips on nutrition, fitness, and mental health. A panel of inspiring voices from BPR Bank sharing their experiences on balancing careers, self-care, and building strong support systems. The colourful event was held at Mövenpick Hotel in Kigali on Saturday, March 14, 2026.The celebration left attendees inspired, reinforcing the message that leadership, integrity, and self-care go hand in hand, both at work and at home.
In a joint statement, the Jordan Armed Forces and the Public Security Directorate (PSD) said the Royal Jordanian Air Force intercepted 79 of the missiles and drones. Five drones and one missile were not intercepted and fell within Jordanian territory.
Meanwhile, the PSD spokesperson Amer Sartawi said that civil defense and police teams responded to 93 reports of missile and drone debris across most governorates over the past week.
Nine individuals sustained injuries during these incidents, and all received necessary medical treatment and have been discharged in stable condition.
On February 28, Israel and the United States launched joint attacks on Tehran and several other Iranian cities, killing Iran’s then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, along with senior military commanders and civilians. Iran responded by launching waves of missile and drone strikes targeting Israel and U.S. bases and assets in the Middle East.
The Jordan Armed Forces and the Public Security Directorate (PSD) said the Royal Jordanian Air Force intercepted 79 of the missiles and drones.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Infrastructure commended the Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) for the initiative during an inspection visit to the Pugu railway workshop in Dar es Salaam, where the locomotive assembly project is underway.
Committee Chairman Selemani Kakoso urged the TRC to continue building the capacity of Tanzanian youth involved in assembling and maintaining the locomotives by providing advanced training both domestically and abroad.
He said strengthening technical knowledge, skills and innovation among young technicians would enhance efficiency and sustainability in the railway sector.
According to TRC Director General Machibya Shiwa, the decision to assemble the locomotives locally followed delays in the delivery of spare parts from suppliers due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Two locomotives assembled in Malaysia were shipped to Tanzania, while parts for the remaining six units were transported to the Pugu workshop for local assembly.
Shiwa said the project has opened business opportunities for local suppliers providing machinery services, construction materials, electrical equipment and other components.
Tanzania has begun assembling mainline gauge railway locomotives locally.
The contingent was briefed on Friday by Vincent Nyakarundi, the Army Chief of Staff of the RDF, during a ceremony held at Kami Barracks.
The briefing was also attended by the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Operations, Commissioner of Police Vincent B. Sano.
During the briefing, Maj Gen Nyakarundi reminded the contingent that their mission is to protect civilians from terrorism and urged them to serve as good ambassadors of Rwanda. He emphasised the importance of discipline, teamwork, and professionalism, encouraging them to remain fully committed to their duties, just as their predecessors have done.
Rwandan troops were first deployed to Cabo Delgado in July 2021 at the request of the Mozambican government, following years of attacks by Islamic State-linked insurgents.
Since then, the joint operations between Rwanda Security Forces and the Mozambican army have significantly weakened the insurgency, restored security in several areas, and enabled thousands of displaced residents to return to their homes.
The latest deployment comes a few months after a visit by Mozambican President Daniel Francisco Chapo to Rwanda, during which a renewed Status of Forces Agreement on the support to fight terrorism in Mozambique was signed. The agreement extended Rwanda’s military support in Cabo Delgado province.
“Thanks to this cooperation, we can see peace returning to the region,” President Chapo said, acknowledging Rwanda’s role in stabilising Cabo Delgado despite ongoing sporadic attacks.
Maj Gen Nyakarundi reminded the contingent that their mission is to protect civilians from terrorism and urged them to serve as good ambassadors of Rwanda. The new contingent will relieve colleagues currently serving in Rwanda’s counter-terrorism mission in Cabo Delgado.The briefing was also attended by the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Operations, Commissioner of Police Vincent B. Sano.
The group crossed into Rwanda on Thursday, March 12, 2026, through the main border post linking the two countries in Rubavu District, where they were received by the district’s Vice Mayor in charge of Social Affairs, Ishimwe Pacifique.
Most of the returnees are women and children, many of whom were born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Speaking to the Rwanda Broadcasting Agency, several of them said they decided to return after being encouraged by fellow Rwandans who had previously repatriated and successfully rebuilt their lives back home.
Many of those returning had spent years under the control of the FDLR, a militia group formed by perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi who fled to the DRC after being defeated by the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA).
Since the M23 rebel forces began taking control of large parts of eastern DRC, the returnees say security conditions have improved, allowing them to consider going back to Rwanda.
In cooperation with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, those willing to return are being facilitated to repatriate.
The returning Rwandan nationals were welcomed by the district’s Vice Mayor in charge of Social Affairs, Ishimwe Pacifique.
The Coordination Council of El Geneina Emergency Rooms, a voluntary civilian group, said in a statement that a drone fired four missiles at the crossing, killing 13 people involved in the fuel trade, including five women, and injuring five others.
The strike destroyed the fuel market at the crossing, damaged several civilian vehicles, and burned large quantities of food supplies, the group said.
According to the council, all the victims were small-scale traders who transported fuel and goods from the Chadian city of Adre to the crossing using traditional animal-drawn carts as part of their daily livelihood activities.
The group added that the crossing is also used for humanitarian operations, including the delivery of relief supplies, medicines, and shelter materials, as well as the movement of international humanitarian workers.
Meanwhile, an eyewitness, Adam Abdalla, a local fuel trader, told Xinhua that the attack occurred early in the morning while traders were preparing to begin their daily work.
“Several successive explosions hit the fuel market, and the fuel tanks and vehicles caught fire,” he said.
Abdalla added that the fuel market at the crossing had been a primary source of livelihood for dozens of families, noting that the strike caused heavy losses for traders and left the site almost completely destroyed.
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) accused the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) of carrying out the attack, claiming it was intended to disrupt the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Darfur region.
The RSF called on the UN Security Council and international organizations to take urgent measures to halt what it described as “attacks” and to hold those responsible accountable.
Border crossings between Sudan and Chad, particularly the Adre crossing, are among the most important commercial routes for residents of Darfur, serving as a key artery for the movement of goods and people.
On February 23, Chad announced the closure of its border with Sudan after armed groups involved in the conflict crossed into its territory, while stating that humanitarian exceptions would still be granted subject to prior authorization.
Fighting between the SAF and the RSF erupted in April 2023 and has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced millions inside Sudan and across its borders.
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) accused the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) of carrying out the attack, claiming it was intended to disrupt the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Darfur region.
European Commission Deputy Chief Spokesperson Olof Gill told a press briefing that the Commission would carefully review the details of the U.S. investigation and continue to ensure that the EU’s interests are fully protected.
Gill added that the Commission would seek further clarification from Washington on how the Section 301 investigation would interact with the framework agreed under the EU-U.S. joint statement.
“The Commission will respond firmly and proportionately to any breach of the joint statement commitments,” Gill said.
Under the EU-U.S. trade deal reached in July last year, the EU agreed to eliminate tariffs on all U.S. industrial products and introduce tariff-rate quotas for a wide range of U.S. agri-food products entering the EU market. In return, Washington would set a 15-percent tariff ceiling on most EU goods exported to the United States.
Under the EU-U.S. trade deal reached in July last year, the EU agreed to eliminate tariffs on all U.S. industrial products and introduce tariff-rate quotas for a wide range of U.S. agri-food products entering the EU market.
Under the new legislation, any driver found with a blood alcohol content above the legal limit commits an offence. Convicted drivers face a fine ranging from Rwf 100,000 to Rwf 400,000 and imprisonment of three to six months.
The law specifically targets drivers of public transport, school buses, employee shuttles, tourist vehicles, and cargo trucks over 3.5 tons. Drivers whose blood alcohol level is at least twice the legal limit may face fines between Rwf 200,000 and Rwf 500,000 and imprisonment of three to six months, or one of these penalties.
Refusing a blood alcohol test is also criminalised. Drivers convicted of this offence face fines of Rwf 300,000 to Rwf 600,000 and imprisonment of three to six months if they operate public transport, school, or tourist vehicles, or cargo trucks over 3.5 tons. Drivers of other vehicles may face fines of Rwf 400,000 to Rwf 600,000 and imprisonment of up to 10 days.
The law sets the maximum permissible blood alcohol content at 0.80 grams per litre of blood. It also prohibits driving without a valid license, punishable by fines of Rwf 100,000–200,000 and 15–30 days in jail. Additionally, refusing to stop when signalled by a traffic officer is punishable by fines of Rwf 400,000–700,000 and imprisonment of three to six months.
The revision incorporates modern technology to enhance transparency and accountability in law enforcement, aiming to improve road safety and reduce accidents and fatalities. Traffic officers will prepare case files for prosecution in accordance with criminal procedure law.
Under the new legislation, any driver found with a blood alcohol content above the legal limit commits an offence. Convicted drivers face a fine ranging from Rwf 100,000 to Rwf 400,000 and imprisonment of three to six months.
