14 Apr 2024 | 07:06 PM UTC
Africa: Demonstrations related to Israel-Hamas war likely across region through at least late April /update 4
Additional rallies related to Israel-Hamas war likely across sub-Saharan Africa through late April; gatherings most likely in major cities.
Activists affiliated with various groups will likely stage additional demonstrations across sub-Saharan Africa through at least late April in response to developments in the Israel-Hamas war. Pro-Palestinian activists have organized most previous rallies, and activists who participate in most future demonstrations will likely express similar sentiments, including demands for a ceasefire in the conflict; however, pro-Israeli demonstrations have also occurred in the region and remain possible over the coming weeks.
Related gatherings are most likely to be held in capitals and other major cities, especially near mosques, public squares, city centers, major thoroughfares, universities, government buildings, and Israeli, Palestinian, and US diplomatic offices, among other locations. Counterprotests may form near some rallies.
Authorities will likely deploy a heightened security presence to the sites of any rallies that materialize to monitor participating activists. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces, as well as between groups of rival protesters, cannot be ruled out. Localized transport disruptions are likely in areas that are subject to protest activity; demonstrators could march along roadways, impeding the flow of traffic.
Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Refrain from discussing sensitive topics, including the situation in Israel and the Palestinian Territories, in public spaces, especially with unfamiliar persons. Prepare for localized transport disruptions in areas that are subject to protest activity. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
Since the Israel-Hamas war broke out in October 2023, related demonstrations have materialized in locations across sub-Saharan Africa, including in urban areas in Mauritania, Kenya, Senegal, Nigeria, and South Africa. While violence has been reported at some rallies, most have remained peaceful. The most frequent gatherings have occurred in South Africa, specifically in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Pretoria, and there is an elevated risk of clashes between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli activists in the country. Pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli demonstrators notably engaged in clashes in Cape Town in November.
