Overview

Opposition political party members and government critics were arrested, and their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly severely restricted. While more children benefited from free education, overcrowded classrooms compromised educational standards. Drought heightened food insecurity and the president declared a national emergency. A national human rights body expressed concerns about reports of torture and other ill-treatment by the police. LGBTI people’s rights were increasingly under threat. Persons with albinism had limited access to necessary sunscreen aids for the prevention of skin cancer. Food shortages and financial difficulties were believed to have led to an increase in child abuse and gender-based violence.