The first round of Madagascar's Presidential election, initially scheduled for November 9, has been postponed by a week following the injury of former President Marc Ravalomanana during an opposition demonstration. The election, in which incumbent president Andry Rajoelina is a candidate, has been in the making for several weeks in a climate that continues to deteriorate.

Madagascar: Opposition candidates protest 'institutional coup' | World Of Africa

Practical to carry, cheaper than bottles, and readily available, small disposable water sachets have become an integral part of life in Senegal. They are also a key contributor to plastic waste marring the West African nation's streets and coastlines.

Senegal drowns in plastic

Kenya's cabinet approved the deployment of 1,000 police to lead a multi-national peacekeeping mission to Haiti to combat gang violence. The country's parliament must now sign off on the resolution. However the deployment has faced various controversies and setbacks.

Kenya to deploy 1,000 troops to Haiti

The UN mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has suspended eight of its peacemakers following reports of serious misconduct.

UN peacekeepers suspended over serious misconduct charges

DR Congo's leader Felix Tshisekedi has submitted his candidacy for a second term in office, joining a crowded list of presidential hopefuls including opposition heavyweights and a Nobel Peace Prize winner. The turbulent central African nation, a vast and impoverished country of about 100 million people is due to hold parliamentary and presidential votes on December 20.

DRC's crowded field of presidential hopefuls

Zimbabwe has recorded at least 100 suspected deaths from cholera while more than 5,000 possible cases have been reported since late last month, said the country’s ministry of health late Wednesday (Oct 4) prompting the government to impose a number of restrictions in a bid to stop the spread of the disease.&nbsp;

The Zimbabwe government in an emailed statement told Bloomberg, that this is the biggest flare-up in the water-borne disease since 2018 and attributed to unhygienic conditions and blocked sewers.&nbsp;

Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness which spreads through contaminated food or water and can spread rapidly in areas with poor sanitation.&nbsp;The infection is often said to be mild or without symptoms, but in some cases can become severe and life-threatening.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-of-africa-malawi-battles-cholera-scourge-553657">World Of Africa: Malawi battles Cholera scourge</a>

The rise in confirmed and suspected cases in Zimbabwe also comes months after its neighbour South Africa suffered its worst outbreak of the diarrheal illness in 15 years.&nbsp;

<h2>What is happening in Zimbabwe?</h2>

Zimbabwe’s health ministry said that out of the 100 suspected deaths due to cholera, 30 of them were confirmed to be due to the water-borne disease after laboratory tests.&nbsp;

They have also recorded 905 confirmed cases of cholera with another 4,609 suspected cases.

The government has since imposed restrictions like limiting the number of people at funerals and a ban on some social gatherings in affected areas.&nbsp;

Large gatherings at funerals in the Manicaland and Masvingo provinces – which have been some of the most affected areas in the country– have been stopped, reported the Associated Press.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sikkim-flash-floods-death-toll-rises-to-18-six-indian-army-personnel-killed-nearly-100-still-missing-643061">Sikkim flash floods: Death toll rises to 18, six Indian army personnel killed; nearly 100 still missing</a>

According to the guidelines issued by the government, no more than 50 people are allowed to attend funerals and people should avoid shaking hands and are not allowed to serve food at the funerals.&nbsp;

The country’s health ministry has identified Buhera, a southeastern district, as the epicentre of the current outbreak and said that the cases have now spread to 41 districts across Zimbabwe including the capital city of Harare.&nbsp;

The government has also said people should stop attending open markets, some social gatherings and outdoor church camps which typically lack sanitary infrastructure.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/one-billion-people-in-43-countries-face-cholera-risk-amid-bleak-outlook-594391">One billion people in 43 countries face cholera risk, amid 'bleak' outlook</a>

Zimbabwe, which often struggles with access to clean water, has witnessed regular outbreaks of the water-born disease and lost more than 4,000 people to the diarrheal illness back in 2008.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Zimbabwe has recorded at least 100 suspected deaths from cholera while more than 5,000 possible cases have been reported since late last month, said the country’s ministry of health late Wednesday (Oct 4) prompting the government to impose a number of restrictions in a bid to stop the spread of the disease.

Zimbabwe has recorded at least 100 suspected deaths from cholera while more than 5,000 possible cases have been reported since late last month, said the country’s ministry of health late Wednesday (Oct 4) prompting the government to impose a number of restrictions in a bid to stop the spread of the disease. The Zimbabwe government in an emailed statement told Bloomberg, that this is the biggest flare-up in the water-borne disease since 2018 and attributed to unhygienic conditions and blocked sewers. Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness which spreads through contaminated food or water and can spread rapidly in areas with poor sanitation. The infection is often said to be mild or without symptoms, but in some cases can become severe and life-threatening. ALSO WATCH | World Of Africa: Malawi battles Cholera scourge The rise in confirmed and suspected cases in Zimbabwe also comes months after its neighbour South Africa suffered its worst outbreak of the diarrheal illness in 15 years. What is happening in Zimbabwe? Zimbabwe’s health ministry said that out of the 100 suspected deaths due to cholera, 30 of them were confirmed to be due to the water-borne disease after laboratory tests. They have also recorded 905 confirmed cases of cholera with another 4,609 suspected cases. The government has since imposed restrictions like limiting the number of people at funerals and a ban on some social gatherings in affected areas. Large gatherings at funerals in the Manicaland and Masvingo provinces – which have been some of the most affected areas in the country– have been stopped, reported the Associated Press. ALSO READ | Sikkim flash floods: Death toll rises to 18, six Indian army personnel killed; nearly 100 still missing According to the guidelines issued by the government, no more than 50 people are allowed to attend funerals and people should avoid shaking hands and are not allowed to serve food at the funerals. The country’s health ministry has identified Buhera, a southeastern district, as the epicentre of the current outbreak and said that the cases have now spread to 41 districts across Zimbabwe including the capital city of Harare. The government has also said people should stop attending open markets, some social gatherings and outdoor church camps which typically lack sanitary infrastructure. ALSO WATCH | One billion people in 43 countries face cholera risk, amid 'bleak' outlook Zimbabwe, which often struggles with access to clean water, has witnessed regular outbreaks of the water-born disease and lost more than 4,000 people to the diarrheal illness back in 2008. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zimbabwe records at least 100 suspected cholera deaths, imposes restrictions

The economic growth of Sub-Saharan Africa is poised to slow down this year, largely due to the underperformance of economic powerhouses like South Africa, Nigeria, and Angola, as per the latest report from the World Bank, released on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The report reveals that regional economic growth is expected to decrease to 2.5 per cent in 2023, down from 3.6 per cent recorded last year. However, there is hope, with projections indicating a rebound to 3.7 per cent next year and 4.1 per cent in 2025.&nbsp;

One concerning trend highlighted in the report is the lack of positive per capita growth in the region since 2015. Despite a rapid increase in population, economic activity in African countries has failed to keep pace. The result is a growing gap between population growth and job creation.&nbsp;

According to the World Bank's "Africa's Pulse" report, approximately 12 million Africans join the labour market annually, but the current economic growth patterns only generate around 3 million formal sector jobs. This, in turn, places a significant burden on the region's most vulnerable and impoverished individuals.&nbsp;

Reuters cited Andrew Dabalen, the Chief Economist for Africa at the World Bank, who expressed his concerns, stating, "The region's poorest and most vulnerable people continue to bear the economic brunt of this slowdown, as weak growth translates into slow poverty reduction and poor job growth."&nbsp;

In a worrisome trend, more than half of the region's countries, precisely 28 out of 48, have seen a downward revision in their 2023 growth forecasts compared to the World Bank's April estimates.&nbsp;

South Africa, the most developed economy on the continent, is expected to experience a 0.5 per cent growth this year, primarily due to its ongoing energy crisis. Similarly, top oil producers Nigeria and Angola are projected to witness growth slowdowns, with rates of 2.9 per cent and 1.3 per cent, respectively.&nbsp;

The report also highlights the dire situation in Sudan, where a major internal armed conflict has led to infrastructure destruction and a stagnant economy, resulting in a projected 12 per cent contraction.&nbsp;

Excluding Sudan from the equation, the regional growth would be slightly more promising, at 3.1 per cent.&nbsp;

"The region is projected to contract at an annual average rate per capita of 0.1 per cent over 2015-2025, thus marking a lost decade of growth in the aftermath of the 2014-15 plunge in commodity prices," the report stated.&nbsp;

Additionally, while inflation in sub-Saharan Africa is expected to decrease to 7.3 per cent this year from 9.3 per cent in 2022, it remains above central bank targets in most countries.&nbsp;

Moreover, recent military coups in Niger and Gabon, along with army takeovers in Guinea, Mali, and Burkina Faso, and ongoing armed conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Sudan, have introduced additional risks to stability in Africa.&nbsp;

Furthermore, the mounting debt crisis is putting immense strain on the region's resources, with a staggering 31 per cent of regional revenues being consumed by interest and loan payments in 2022.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

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The economic growth of Sub-Saharan Africa is poised to slow down this year, largely due to the underperformance of economic powerhouses like South Africa, Nigeria, and Angola, as per the latest report from the World Bank, released on Wednesday.

The economic growth of Sub-Saharan Africa is poised to slow down this year, largely due to the underperformance of economic powerhouses like South Africa, Nigeria, and Angola, as per the latest report from the World Bank, released on Wednesday. The report reveals that regional economic growth is expected to decrease to 2.5 per cent in 2023, down from 3.6 per cent recorded last year. However, there is hope, with projections indicating a rebound to 3.7 per cent next year and 4.1 per cent in 2025. One concerning trend highlighted in the report is the lack of positive per capita growth in the region since 2015. Despite a rapid increase in population, economic activity in African countries has failed to keep pace. The result is a growing gap between population growth and job creation. According to the World Bank's "Africa's Pulse" report, approximately 12 million Africans join the labour market annually, but the current economic growth patterns only generate around 3 million formal sector jobs. This, in turn, places a significant burden on the region's most vulnerable and impoverished individuals. Reuters cited Andrew Dabalen, the Chief Economist for Africa at the World Bank, who expressed his concerns, stating, "The region's poorest and most vulnerable people continue to bear the economic brunt of this slowdown, as weak growth translates into slow poverty reduction and poor job growth." In a worrisome trend, more than half of the region's countries, precisely 28 out of 48, have seen a downward revision in their 2023 growth forecasts compared to the World Bank's April estimates. South Africa, the most developed economy on the continent, is expected to experience a 0.5 per cent growth this year, primarily due to its ongoing energy crisis. Similarly, top oil producers Nigeria and Angola are projected to witness growth slowdowns, with rates of 2.9 per cent and 1.3 per cent, respectively. The report also highlights the dire situation in Sudan, where a major internal armed conflict has led to infrastructure destruction and a stagnant economy, resulting in a projected 12 per cent contraction. Excluding Sudan from the equation, the regional growth would be slightly more promising, at 3.1 per cent. "The region is projected to contract at an annual average rate per capita of 0.1 per cent over 2015-2025, thus marking a lost decade of growth in the aftermath of the 2014-15 plunge in commodity prices," the report stated. Additionally, while inflation in sub-Saharan Africa is expected to decrease to 7.3 per cent this year from 9.3 per cent in 2022, it remains above central bank targets in most countries. Moreover, recent military coups in Niger and Gabon, along with army takeovers in Guinea, Mali, and Burkina Faso, and ongoing armed conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Sudan, have introduced additional risks to stability in Africa. Furthermore, the mounting debt crisis is putting immense strain on the region's resources, with a staggering 31 per cent of regional revenues being consumed by interest and loan payments in 2022. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sub-Saharan Africa faces economic slowdown as key players falter, World Bank warns 

Football's global governing body FIFA on Wednesday (October 4) announced it had reached an agreement to host the 2030 World Cup across three continents viz, South America, Africa and Europe.

While Morocco, Portugal and Spain will be the joint hosts for the marquee event, games will also be played in&nbsp;Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay. As a result, all six nations will automatically qualify for the World Cup.&nbsp;

"In 2030, the FIFA World Cup will unite three continents and six countries, inviting the entire world to join in the celebration of the beautiful game, the Centenary and the FIFA World Cup itself," FIFA said in a statement.&nbsp;

FIFA said the World Cup matches were being held in South America as part of the centenary celebration of the first World Cup held in Uruguay. According to FIFA, the three South American nations will organise one match each with the first of the three matches taking place at the stadium where it all began - the mythical Estádio Centenário, located in the Uruguayan capital city of Montevideo.&nbsp;

“The centennial World Cup could not be far from South America, where everything began,” said Alejandro Dominguez, the president of South American soccer body CONMEBOL. “The 2030 World Cup will be played in three continents.”

Notably, the decision was made at a virtual&nbsp;meeting of the FIFA council. It will need to be confirmed in a vote with all 211 FIFA members present at an event, likely to take place before the next FIFA congress in Bangkok in 2024.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/icc-world-cup-2023-1986-wc-winning-coach-dav-whatmore-picks-game-changers-for-wc-642233">Watch |&nbsp;ICC World Cup 2023: 1996 WC-winning coach Dav Whatmore picks game-changers for WC</a>

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<h2>WC will unite a divided world: FIFA</h2>

FIFA President&nbsp;Gianni Infantino said the muti-continent World Cup will unite a divided world.&nbsp;

“In a divided world, FIFA and football are uniting.&nbsp;he FIFA Council, representing the entire world of football, unanimously agreed to celebrate the centenary of the FIFA World Cup, whose first edition was played in Uruguay in 1930, in the most appropriate way," said Infantino.&nbsp;

The decision also closes months of speculation and jostling among the continental confederations who were vying to receive the right to play host.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurgen-klopp-demands-replay-of-liverpool-tottenham-match-after-var-chaos-642603">Also read |&nbsp;Jurgen Klopp demands replay of Liverpool-Tottenham match after VAR chaos</a>

Additionally, FIFA said the&nbsp;2034 World Cup will be staged in a host country (or countries) represented by the Asian or Oceania confederations. According to football pundits, it means a bid from Saudi Arabia is highly likely and a repeat of the Winter World Cup that took place in Qatar last year might be on the cards.

Apart from the kingdom, Australia is expected to put in its bid, perhaps alongside Indonesia, the world's fourth most populous country.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Football's global governing body FIFA on Wednesday (October 4) announced it had reached an agreement to host the 2030 World Cup across three continents viz, South America, Africa and Europe.

Football's global governing body FIFA on Wednesday (October 4) announced it had reached an agreement to host the 2030 World Cup across three continents viz, South America, Africa and Europe. While Morocco, Portugal and Spain will be the joint hosts for the marquee event, games will also be played in Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay. As a result, all six nations will automatically qualify for the World Cup. "In 2030, the FIFA World Cup will unite three continents and six countries, inviting the entire world to join in the celebration of the beautiful game, the Centenary and the FIFA World Cup itself," FIFA said in a statement. FIFA said the World Cup matches were being held in South America as part of the centenary celebration of the first World Cup held in Uruguay. According to FIFA, the three South American nations will organise one match each with the first of the three matches taking place at the stadium where it all began - the mythical Estádio Centenário, located in the Uruguayan capital city of Montevideo. “The centennial World Cup could not be far from South America, where everything began,” said Alejandro Dominguez, the president of South American soccer body CONMEBOL. “The 2030 World Cup will be played in three continents.” Notably, the decision was made at a virtual meeting of the FIFA council. It will need to be confirmed in a vote with all 211 FIFA members present at an event, likely to take place before the next FIFA congress in Bangkok in 2024. Watch | ICC World Cup 2023: 1996 WC-winning coach Dav Whatmore picks game-changers for WC × WC will unite a divided world: FIFA FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the muti-continent World Cup will unite a divided world. “In a divided world, FIFA and football are uniting. he FIFA Council, representing the entire world of football, unanimously agreed to celebrate the centenary of the FIFA World Cup, whose first edition was played in Uruguay in 1930, in the most appropriate way," said Infantino. The decision also closes months of speculation and jostling among the continental confederations who were vying to receive the right to play host. Also read | Jurgen Klopp demands replay of Liverpool-Tottenham match after VAR chaos Additionally, FIFA said the 2034 World Cup will be staged in a host country (or countries) represented by the Asian or Oceania confederations. According to football pundits, it means a bid from Saudi Arabia is highly likely and a repeat of the Winter World Cup that took place in Qatar last year might be on the cards. Apart from the kingdom, Australia is expected to put in its bid, perhaps alongside Indonesia, the world's fourth most populous country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

2030 Football World Cup to be held in Europe, Africa and South America, announces FIFA

Mamadou Safayu Barry cycled 4,000 kms across West Africa, enduring arrests and blazing heat, for a spot at his dream university. He set off from guinea for Egypt's prestigious Al-Azhar, hoping he would be accepted. The 25-year-old cycled for four months through countries wracked by Islamist militants and coups.

Guinea: Chasing dreams thousands of miles away | World Of Africa

Eswatini's government has hailed the election of 59 MPs to the lower house of parliament as free and fair. The elections are unlikely to offer any political change to the kingdom, with the MPs serving in a purely advisory role to the monarch. All legislation in the country is approved by King Mswati III who has the absolute right of veto.

Parliamentary elections in Africa's last monarch

At least 8 people including 4 children have been killed by electrocution in Cape Town as heavy rains battered South Africa's Cape Town, changing homes with makeshift wiring into sites of multiple deaths.

Deadly rain batters south African capital, killing 8 people

In an ongoing effort to save Kenya's dwindling Giraffe population, wildlife veterinarian and rangers at Masai Mara National Reserve have fitted 25 giraffes with GPS tracker.

Kenya: To boost Giraffe conservation, animals fitted with GPS tracker | WION Climate Tracker

The death toll from the&nbsp;truck bombing in central Somalia rose to 21, on Sunday (September 24) after&nbsp;emergency workers dug through rubble to recover more bodies. This comes a day after&nbsp;a suicide bomber drove a truck packed with explosives towards a security checkpoint.

The attack took place in the town of Beledweyne where the officials have also reported damage to nearby buildings.&nbsp;

It was not immediately clear who carried out the bombing and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, as of Sunday. However, the Islamist group al Shabaab is known to frequently carry out bombings in the Horn of Africa country.

<h2>What happened?</h2>

The attack took place in the town of Beledweyne, which is in central Somalia’s Hiran region and has recently witnessed battles between the military and al Shabaab. 
 
"The death toll from yesterday's explosion has increased today from 13 to 21 people after more dead bodies were recovered under the debris of the destroyed buildings, some...burnt beyond recognition,"&nbsp;Ahmed Yare Adan, a local police officer, told AFP.&nbsp; 
 
"People... are still looking for the missing members of their families, they don't know if they are dead or alive," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/al-shabaab-kill-six-in-raid-on-somalia-village-they-recently-lost-549979">Al-Shabaab kill six in raid on Somalia village they recently lost</a> 
 
Meanwhile, the&nbsp;number of wounded in Beledweyne stood at 52, said Abdifatah Mohamed Yusuf, director general of the Hirshabelle ministry of humanitarian and disaster management, according to the Associated Press.&nbsp;

He also told the AP,&nbsp;that 17 of those critically wounded were airlifted to the capital, Mogadishu, for treatment.

Sayid Ali, deputy commander of the Beledweyne police station, told AFP that the bomber had targeted a busy neighbourhood that housed businesses and residential buildings. "The search and clearing operation is going on at the site of the explosion," Ali told AFP.&nbsp;

Police officer Ahmed Aden, on Saturday,&nbsp;told Reuters that among those killed were five police officers who had fired on the truck in a failed attempt to stop it from ramming the checkpoint, adding that the nearby buildings and shops were reduced to rubble.&nbsp;

<h2>About the al-Shabab group</h2>

The attack came after Somalia’s beleaguered government admitted to suffering “several significant setbacks” in its fight against the al Shabaab militants. The militant group has been fighting Somalia’s central government for more than a decade in a bid to establish its rule based on strict interpretation of Islamic sharia law.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/al-shabaab-militants-attack-officials-house-in-somalia-10-dead-564645">Al Shabaab militants attack officials' house in Somalia, 10 dead</a>

The fragile internationally-backed government in Mogadishu has been able to keep al Shabaab away from the capital city Mogadishu after they were driven out in 2011 but the militant group continues to control swathes of the countryside.&nbsp;

This comes as Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud took office in May 2022, and vowed an “all-out war” against the group. During a recent visit to the frontline, as per AFP, Mohamud said that his government would “eliminate” the jihadists by the end of the year.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The death toll from the truck bombing in central Somalia rose to 21, on Sunday (September 24) after emergency workers dug through rubble to recover more bodies. This comes a day after a suicide bomber drove a truck packed with explosives towards a security checkpoint.

The death toll from the truck bombing in central Somalia rose to 21, on Sunday (September 24) after emergency workers dug through rubble to recover more bodies. This comes a day after a suicide bomber drove a truck packed with explosives towards a security checkpoint. The attack took place in the town of Beledweyne where the officials have also reported damage to nearby buildings. It was not immediately clear who carried out the bombing and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, as of Sunday. However, the Islamist group al Shabaab is known to frequently carry out bombings in the Horn of Africa country. What happened? The attack took place in the town of Beledweyne, which is in central Somalia’s Hiran region and has recently witnessed battles between the military and al Shabaab. "The death toll from yesterday's explosion has increased today from 13 to 21 people after more dead bodies were recovered under the debris of the destroyed buildings, some...burnt beyond recognition," Ahmed Yare Adan, a local police officer, told AFP. "People... are still looking for the missing members of their families, they don't know if they are dead or alive," he added. ALSO READ | Al-Shabaab kill six in raid on Somalia village they recently lost Meanwhile, the number of wounded in Beledweyne stood at 52, said Abdifatah Mohamed Yusuf, director general of the Hirshabelle ministry of humanitarian and disaster management, according to the Associated Press. He also told the AP, that 17 of those critically wounded were airlifted to the capital, Mogadishu, for treatment. Sayid Ali, deputy commander of the Beledweyne police station, told AFP that the bomber had targeted a busy neighbourhood that housed businesses and residential buildings. "The search and clearing operation is going on at the site of the explosion," Ali told AFP. Police officer Ahmed Aden, on Saturday, told Reuters that among those killed were five police officers who had fired on the truck in a failed attempt to stop it from ramming the checkpoint, adding that the nearby buildings and shops were reduced to rubble. About the al-Shabab group The attack came after Somalia’s beleaguered government admitted to suffering “several significant setbacks” in its fight against the al Shabaab militants. The militant group has been fighting Somalia’s central government for more than a decade in a bid to establish its rule based on strict interpretation of Islamic sharia law. ALSO READ | Al Shabaab militants attack officials' house in Somalia, 10 dead The fragile internationally-backed government in Mogadishu has been able to keep al Shabaab away from the capital city Mogadishu after they were driven out in 2011 but the militant group continues to control swathes of the countryside. This comes as Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud took office in May 2022, and vowed an “all-out war” against the group. During a recent visit to the frontline, as per AFP, Mohamud said that his government would “eliminate” the jihadists by the end of the year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Somalia bombing: Death toll rises to 21 after truck with explosives hit security checkpoint

What the international media and the global press have been saying about India this week here's a quick recap for you on the India Story with Vikram Chandra.

India points the way to digital access across Africa

In what comes as a major fillip for conservation efforts, the rhino numbers grew across Africa in 2022 for the first time in a decade. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), 23,300 rhinos roamed the&nbsp;continent at the end of last year, up 5.2 per cent on 2021.&nbsp;

White rhino numbers stood at 16,803 - an uptick of 5.6 per cent, which was the first time an increase had been reported in their numbers since 2012. Meanwhile, a total of&nbsp;6,487 black rhinos were reported in Africa, up 4.2 per cent&nbsp;from 2021.&nbsp;

IUCN has attributed a combination of&nbsp;protection and biological management initiatives to the increase in numbers.&nbsp;

"With this good news, we can take a sigh of relief for the first time in a decade,"&nbsp;Michael Knight, a wildlife ecologist who chairs the IUCN's African Rhino Specialist Group was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

"It is imperative to further consolidate and build upon this positive development and not drop our guard," added Knight.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ngo-african-parks-to-release-white-rhinos-in-south-africa-632959">Watch |&nbsp;NGO African parks to release white rhinos in South Africa</a>

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Although the increase in numbers of the majestic animal is a sound statistic, the battle is far from over, experts argue. As many as 448 rhinos were killed in South Africa alone last year, compared to 451 in 2021. Namibia recorded 93 poached rhinos, compared to&nbsp;47 the previous year while official data from Kenya showed one rhino was poached.&nbsp;

The majestic animal and its numbers have been threatened&nbsp;by decades of poaching driven by demand from Asia, where horns are used in traditional medicine for their supposed therapeutic effects.

Rhinos, among other large animals, are extremely important for the biodiversity and ecology of Africa, They create habitats for other species,&nbsp;providing opportunities for future global restoration and rewilding options. their increased numbers provide a source of livelihood for thousands of Africans who rely on tourism for employment opportunities.&nbsp;

<h2>India records zero rhino poaching&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier this year, good news came from India as well where it was reported that no rhinos were poached in the northeastern state of Assam in 2022. Chief Minister&nbsp;Himanta Biswa Sarma shared the news and&nbsp;said the 'gentle giant' was much safer in the state.&nbsp;

"Zero Poaching! 2022 was really special for our rhino conservation efforts. Not a single rhino being poached in 2022 &amp; just 2 in 2021, the gentle giant is now much safer in Assam. Kudos to @assamforest dept &amp; @assampolice for their sincere efforts to protect the iconic animal," Sarma posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/stunning-zero-rhinos-poached-in-the-indian-state-of-assam-in-nearly-45-years-549207">Also read |&nbsp;STUNNING! Zero rhinos poached in the Indian state of Assam in nearly 45 years</a>

According to data, over 191 rhinos were poached in Assam between 2000 and 2021. The most number of rhinos were poached in 2013 and 2014 when the figure stood at 27. However, in 2020 and 2021, the number came down and only two rhinos were killed.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In what comes as a major fillip for conservation efforts, the rhino numbers grew across Africa in 2022 for the first time in a decade. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), 23,300 rhinos roamed the continent at the end of last year, up 5.

In what comes as a major fillip for conservation efforts, the rhino numbers grew across Africa in 2022 for the first time in a decade. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), 23,300 rhinos roamed the continent at the end of last year, up 5.2 per cent on 2021. White rhino numbers stood at 16,803 - an uptick of 5.6 per cent, which was the first time an increase had been reported in their numbers since 2012. Meanwhile, a total of 6,487 black rhinos were reported in Africa, up 4.2 per cent from 2021. IUCN has attributed a combination of protection and biological management initiatives to the increase in numbers. "With this good news, we can take a sigh of relief for the first time in a decade," Michael Knight, a wildlife ecologist who chairs the IUCN's African Rhino Specialist Group was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. "It is imperative to further consolidate and build upon this positive development and not drop our guard," added Knight. Watch | NGO African parks to release white rhinos in South Africa × Although the increase in numbers of the majestic animal is a sound statistic, the battle is far from over, experts argue. As many as 448 rhinos were killed in South Africa alone last year, compared to 451 in 2021. Namibia recorded 93 poached rhinos, compared to 47 the previous year while official data from Kenya showed one rhino was poached. The majestic animal and its numbers have been threatened by decades of poaching driven by demand from Asia, where horns are used in traditional medicine for their supposed therapeutic effects. Rhinos, among other large animals, are extremely important for the biodiversity and ecology of Africa, They create habitats for other species, providing opportunities for future global restoration and rewilding options. their increased numbers provide a source of livelihood for thousands of Africans who rely on tourism for employment opportunities. India records zero rhino poaching Earlier this year, good news came from India as well where it was reported that no rhinos were poached in the northeastern state of Assam in 2022. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared the news and said the 'gentle giant' was much safer in the state. "Zero Poaching! 2022 was really special for our rhino conservation efforts. Not a single rhino being poached in 2022 & just 2 in 2021, the gentle giant is now much safer in Assam. Kudos to @assamforest dept & @assampolice for their sincere efforts to protect the iconic animal," Sarma posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. Also read | STUNNING! Zero rhinos poached in the Indian state of Assam in nearly 45 years According to data, over 191 rhinos were poached in Assam between 2000 and 2021. The most number of rhinos were poached in 2013 and 2014 when the figure stood at 27. However, in 2020 and 2021, the number came down and only two rhinos were killed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

African rhino numbers increase for first time in over a decade

Archaeologists have discovered the oldest known wooden structure made by the hands of a human ancestor, and it is nearly 500,000 years old. The researchers were working near Zambia’s Kalambo Falls when they stumbled upon the simple wooden structure which they said suggests people who made it were cognitively sophisticated.&nbsp;

<h2>About the discovery</h2>

The study about the discovery was published on Wednesday (September 20) in the journal Nature which details the wooden objects that the researchers unearthed.&nbsp;

The wooden structure found is made up of two interlocking logs of a large-fruited willow tree with a notch deliberately crafted into the upper piece to allow them to fit together at right angles around 476,000 years ago, said the researchers.&nbsp;

The oldest wooden structure, before the announcement out of Zambia, was just 9,000 years old. Meanwhile, the oldest known wooden artefact which was discovered in Israel, is said to be a 780,000-year-old fragment of plank.

The latest discovery was made at Kalambo Falls, on Lake Tanganyika in northern Zambia near the border with Tanzania, a site which has been investigated by scientists since the 1950s.&nbsp;

As per the recent study, researchers, in addition to the world’s oldest wooden structure also found stone tools below the river, three of which were covered in clay deposits above the river level.&nbsp;

It is also worth noting that these wooden artefacts survived hundreds of thousands of years due to the permanently elevated water table since the structure was discovered in 2019 above a 235-metre-high (770-foot) waterfall on the banks of the Zambian river.&nbsp;

<h2>What does the discovery suggest?</h2>

While scientists are not sure what the wooden structure was used for, they believe it to be a part of a wooden platform used as a walkway, to keep food or firewood dry. It could also be used as a base to build a shelter since researchers also found a digging stick and other wooden tools at the same site.&nbsp;

“The framework could have supported a walkway or platform raised above the seasonally wet surroundings. A platform could have multiple purposes including storage of firewood, tools, food and as a foundation on which to place a hut,” Larry Barham, an archaeologist from the University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom told AFP.&nbsp;

Scientists have also noted in the study that the interlocking logs have “no known parallels” in the African or Eurasian Palaeolithic.” The recent discovery also pushes back the dates of the earliest examples of woodworking predating the emergence of our own species, Homo sapiens.&nbsp;

The earliest evidence of Homo sapiens is from around 300,000 years ago. The discovery has “changed how I thought about these people,” Barham told AFP, adding that they “transformed their surroundings to make life easier, even if it was only by making a platform to sit on by the river to do their daily chores.”&nbsp;

He added, “They used their intelligence, imagination and skills to create something they'd never seen before, something that had never previously existed.” This also suggests an abstract level of thinking and “probably language,” said Barham. 
 
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Archaeologists have discovered the oldest known wooden structure made by the hands of a human ancestor, and it is nearly 500,000 years old. The researchers were working near Zambia’s Kalambo Falls when they stumbled upon the simple wooden structure which they said suggests people who made it were cognitively sophisticated.

Archaeologists have discovered the oldest known wooden structure made by the hands of a human ancestor, and it is nearly 500,000 years old. The researchers were working near Zambia’s Kalambo Falls when they stumbled upon the simple wooden structure which they said suggests people who made it were cognitively sophisticated. About the discovery The study about the discovery was published on Wednesday (September 20) in the journal Nature which details the wooden objects that the researchers unearthed. The wooden structure found is made up of two interlocking logs of a large-fruited willow tree with a notch deliberately crafted into the upper piece to allow them to fit together at right angles around 476,000 years ago, said the researchers. The oldest wooden structure, before the announcement out of Zambia, was just 9,000 years old. Meanwhile, the oldest known wooden artefact which was discovered in Israel, is said to be a 780,000-year-old fragment of plank. The latest discovery was made at Kalambo Falls, on Lake Tanganyika in northern Zambia near the border with Tanzania, a site which has been investigated by scientists since the 1950s. As per the recent study, researchers, in addition to the world’s oldest wooden structure also found stone tools below the river, three of which were covered in clay deposits above the river level. It is also worth noting that these wooden artefacts survived hundreds of thousands of years due to the permanently elevated water table since the structure was discovered in 2019 above a 235-metre-high (770-foot) waterfall on the banks of the Zambian river. What does the discovery suggest? While scientists are not sure what the wooden structure was used for, they believe it to be a part of a wooden platform used as a walkway, to keep food or firewood dry. It could also be used as a base to build a shelter since researchers also found a digging stick and other wooden tools at the same site. “The framework could have supported a walkway or platform raised above the seasonally wet surroundings. A platform could have multiple purposes including storage of firewood, tools, food and as a foundation on which to place a hut,” Larry Barham, an archaeologist from the University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom told AFP. Scientists have also noted in the study that the interlocking logs have “no known parallels” in the African or Eurasian Palaeolithic.” The recent discovery also pushes back the dates of the earliest examples of woodworking predating the emergence of our own species, Homo sapiens. The earliest evidence of Homo sapiens is from around 300,000 years ago. The discovery has “changed how I thought about these people,” Barham told AFP, adding that they “transformed their surroundings to make life easier, even if it was only by making a platform to sit on by the river to do their daily chores.” He added, “They used their intelligence, imagination and skills to create something they'd never seen before, something that had never previously existed.” This also suggests an abstract level of thinking and “probably language,” said Barham. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Archaeologists in Zambia discover world’s oldest wooden structure

On the occasion of World's Rhino's Day let me bring you some good news. The year 2022 is marked as a triumphant comeback for africa's rhino's, with their numbers on the rise for the first time in almost a decade...this is can be seen as a major boost to conservation efforts the rhino numbers have grown across africa in 2022. As per the international union for conservation of nature over 23 thousand roam the continent, and this number is seen 5.2 per cent increase from 2021 data.

African rhinos number rise for the first time in a decade

Fresh off the heels of a successful G20 Summit, India is working with the African side to hold the mega India-Africa Summit. &nbsp;Expected to be held in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, in December this year, the summit aims to further firm up ties between the two sides and build on the gains made at the G20 Summit, with the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the mega economic grouping.

At the G20 Summit's opening session in New Delhi on September 9th, Comoros President Azali Assoumani was invited by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to occupy a seat at the high table. Under India's G20 presidency, the largest number of African countries to date were in attendance, including invited countries such as Nigeria, Egypt, Mauritius, Comoros (as the AU chair), and member countries like South Africa. The December summit will be the 4th such India-Africa Summit.&nbsp;The third one took place in Delhi in 2015 with earlier summits taking place in 2011 and 2008.

New Delhi has been increasing its engagement with the continent. India's support to Africa is exemplified by the extension of concessional loans exceeding USD 12.37 billion. This financial assistance has enabled the successful completion of 197 projects, with an additional number of 65 projects currently underway. Eighty-one projects are in the pre-execution stage. These projects encompass diverse sectors, including drinking water schemes, irrigation, rural solar electrification, power plants, transmission lines, cement production, sugar mills, textile factories, technology parks, and railway infrastructure.

In the face of the global COVID-19 pandemic, India's commitment to global health became evident as it supplied 'Made in India' COVID-19 vaccines to 42 African countries from January 2021 to March 2023. This monumental effort not only saved lives but also strengthened India's position as a dependable ally in times of crisis.

Furthermore, India's dedication to education in Africa is evident through the granting of 42,000 scholarships since the 2015 India–Africa Forum Summit (IAFS)-III. In fact, the first foreign campuses of National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) in Uganda and of IIT Mumbai were established in Tanzania this year.

On the economic front, bilateral trade between India and Africa surged to US$ 98 billion in 2022-23, marking significant growth from the previous year's US$ 89.6 billion. In recent times, high-level visits between India and Africa have been instrumental in strengthening diplomatic ties. Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar's visits to South Africa, Namibia, Tanzania, and Uganda reflect India's commitment to engage in meaningful dialogues and expand cooperation with African nations.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi's Kampala principles, outlined in 2018, serve as a guiding framework for India's engagement with the continent. New Delhi has consistently emphasised its role as an important development partner, working in alignment with the needs and priorities of African countries. It also backs Africa for a reformed United Nations Security Council.

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Fresh off the heels of a successful G20 Summit, India is working with the African side to hold the mega India-Africa Summit. Expected to be held in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, in December this year, the summit aims to further firm up ties between the two sides and build on the gains made at the G20 Summit, with the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the mega economic grouping.

Fresh off the heels of a successful G20 Summit, India is working with the African side to hold the mega India-Africa Summit. Expected to be held in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, in December this year, the summit aims to further firm up ties between the two sides and build on the gains made at the G20 Summit, with the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the mega economic grouping. At the G20 Summit's opening session in New Delhi on September 9th, Comoros President Azali Assoumani was invited by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to occupy a seat at the high table. Under India's G20 presidency, the largest number of African countries to date were in attendance, including invited countries such as Nigeria, Egypt, Mauritius, Comoros (as the AU chair), and member countries like South Africa. The December summit will be the 4th such India-Africa Summit. The third one took place in Delhi in 2015 with earlier summits taking place in 2011 and 2008. New Delhi has been increasing its engagement with the continent. India's support to Africa is exemplified by the extension of concessional loans exceeding USD 12.37 billion. This financial assistance has enabled the successful completion of 197 projects, with an additional number of 65 projects currently underway. Eighty-one projects are in the pre-execution stage. These projects encompass diverse sectors, including drinking water schemes, irrigation, rural solar electrification, power plants, transmission lines, cement production, sugar mills, textile factories, technology parks, and railway infrastructure. In the face of the global COVID-19 pandemic, India's commitment to global health became evident as it supplied 'Made in India' COVID-19 vaccines to 42 African countries from January 2021 to March 2023. This monumental effort not only saved lives but also strengthened India's position as a dependable ally in times of crisis. Furthermore, India's dedication to education in Africa is evident through the granting of 42,000 scholarships since the 2015 India–Africa Forum Summit (IAFS)-III. In fact, the first foreign campuses of National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) in Uganda and of IIT Mumbai were established in Tanzania this year. On the economic front, bilateral trade between India and Africa surged to US$ 98 billion in 2022-23, marking significant growth from the previous year's US$ 89.6 billion. In recent times, high-level visits between India and Africa have been instrumental in strengthening diplomatic ties. Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar's visits to South Africa, Namibia, Tanzania, and Uganda reflect India's commitment to engage in meaningful dialogues and expand cooperation with African nations. Prime Minister Modi's Kampala principles, outlined in 2018, serve as a guiding framework for India's engagement with the continent. New Delhi has consistently emphasised its role as an important development partner, working in alignment with the needs and priorities of African countries. It also backs Africa for a reformed United Nations Security Council. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Building on G20 Summit success, plans underway for India-Africa summit

Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso military leaders establish security alliance. The alliance of Sahel states (AES) aims to "establish an architecture of collective defence and mutual assistance" for the benefit of populations.

Africa: Military leaders of three countries sign defence pact to counter Ecowas | Live Discussion

Libya's chief prosecutor has taken the initiative to investigate the recent collapse of the two dams that led to catastrophic floods, focusing on whether improved maintenance practices could have prevented this disaster, media reports said. “I reassure citizens that whoever made mistakes or negligence, prosecutors will certainly take firm measures, file a criminal case against him, and send him to trial,” Libya's Attorney General Al-Siddiq Al-Sour said at a news conference.&nbsp; 
 
He disclosed that approximately $8 million had been allocated for dam maintenance. The allocation and spending of maintenance funds will also be investigated.

This comes as the United Nations, on September 14, highlighted that many deaths in Libya's Derna resulting from the floods could have been averted if early warning and emergency management systems had been functioning properly.

In the aftermath of heavy rains brought by Mediterranean storm Daniel, eastern Libya experienced widespread flooding. This led to the collapse of two dams near the port city of Derna earlier in the week, resulting in severe damage to a quarter of the area, which was subsequently declared a disaster zone.

Media reports quoting&nbsp;Libya's Attorney General Al-Siddiq Al-Sour said that decades-old studies revealed cracks in the two dams. The dams were primarily built to safeguard the city from floods.

These studies indicated cracks and subsidence that could have eventually led to dam collapse, said Al-Sour.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-aid-groups-warn-of-disease-risk-as-country-struggles-to-recover-from-flood-636487">Libya: Aid groups warn of disease risk as country struggles to recover from flood</a>

A team comprising 26 prosecutors will be dispatched to Derna to document victims and ascertain the causes of death, he said. As investigations are ongoing, an accurate count of the fatalities remains unavailable.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/up-to-south-to-change-rules-of-game-g77china-urges-for-new-global-order-at-cuba-summit-636568">'Up to South to change rules of game': G77+China urges for new global order at Cuba Summit</a>

<h2>Staggering number of deaths</h2>

The Libyan Red Crescent reported that, as of Friday (September 15), at least 11,300 people have lost their lives, and an additional 10,100 were still missing in the wake of the devastating floods.

Derna's mayor Abdulmenam al-Ghaithi has&nbsp;expressed concerns that the death toll in Derna alone could exceed 20,000, given the extent of the damage.

WATCH | Libya: Death toll mounts, search ops continue

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<h2>Extreme rainfall&nbsp;</h2>

Libya's National Center of Meteorology reported that more than 16 inches of rain fell within a 24-hour period in the northeastern city of Bayda. Climate experts have reportedly linked this disaster to the impacts of a warming planet, exacerbated by years of political instability and deteriorating infrastructure in the country.

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Libya's chief prosecutor has taken the initiative to investigate the recent collapse of the two dams that led to catastrophic floods, focusing on whether improved maintenance practices could have prevented this disaster, media reports said.

Libya's chief prosecutor has taken the initiative to investigate the recent collapse of the two dams that led to catastrophic floods, focusing on whether improved maintenance practices could have prevented this disaster, media reports said. “I reassure citizens that whoever made mistakes or negligence, prosecutors will certainly take firm measures, file a criminal case against him, and send him to trial,” Libya's Attorney General Al-Siddiq Al-Sour said at a news conference. He disclosed that approximately $8 million had been allocated for dam maintenance. The allocation and spending of maintenance funds will also be investigated. This comes as the United Nations, on September 14, highlighted that many deaths in Libya's Derna resulting from the floods could have been averted if early warning and emergency management systems had been functioning properly. In the aftermath of heavy rains brought by Mediterranean storm Daniel, eastern Libya experienced widespread flooding. This led to the collapse of two dams near the port city of Derna earlier in the week, resulting in severe damage to a quarter of the area, which was subsequently declared a disaster zone. Media reports quoting Libya's Attorney General Al-Siddiq Al-Sour said that decades-old studies revealed cracks in the two dams. The dams were primarily built to safeguard the city from floods. These studies indicated cracks and subsidence that could have eventually led to dam collapse, said Al-Sour. Also Read | Libya: Aid groups warn of disease risk as country struggles to recover from flood A team comprising 26 prosecutors will be dispatched to Derna to document victims and ascertain the causes of death, he said. As investigations are ongoing, an accurate count of the fatalities remains unavailable. Also Read | 'Up to South to change rules of game': G77+China urges for new global order at Cuba Summit Staggering number of deaths The Libyan Red Crescent reported that, as of Friday (September 15), at least 11,300 people have lost their lives, and an additional 10,100 were still missing in the wake of the devastating floods. Derna's mayor Abdulmenam al-Ghaithi has expressed concerns that the death toll in Derna alone could exceed 20,000, given the extent of the damage. WATCH | Libya: Death toll mounts, search ops continue × Extreme rainfall Libya's National Center of Meteorology reported that more than 16 inches of rain fell within a 24-hour period in the northeastern city of Bayda. Climate experts have reportedly linked this disaster to the impacts of a warming planet, exacerbated by years of political instability and deteriorating infrastructure in the country. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Libya dam collapse: Probe launched into allocation of maintenance funds

The junta leaders of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger signed a charter to establish a defence alliance known as the Alliance of Sahel States.&nbsp;

The alliance of the three West African nations signed by their military leaders on September 16, says that the three states will assist one another in the event of an attack on any one of them.

<h2>Alliance of Sahel States: How is it a NATO-style alliance?</h2>

The alliance document's Article 6, much like NATO's Article 5, says that any attack on one or more signatory states will be considered an attack on all signatories. The four-page alliance document, seen by WION, states that the "need to continue the heroic struggles waged by the African people and countries for political independence, human dignity and economic emancipation", as defining tenet of the alliance.&nbsp;

"Any attack on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of one or more contracted parties will be considered an aggression against the other parties," it says.&nbsp;

It also binds the three countries to work to prevent or settle armed rebellions. 
 
<img alt="Mali junta leader Goita hosted the signing event in capital Bamako" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="532c4968-9ba3-431b-9cab-9fc1c6b22b99" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-09-17T123509.000.png" />

Mali junta leader Goita hosted the signing event in capital Bamako |&nbsp;Presidence du Niger/X

The Article 4 of the document underscore combating terrorism in all its forms and organised crime as "common area of the alliance"

"I have today signed with the Heads of State of Burkina Faso and Niger the Liptako-Gourma charter establishing the Alliance of Sahel States, with the aim of establishing a collective defence and mutual assistance framework," Mali military leader Assimi Goita said on X, formerly known as Twitter. &nbsp;

<h2>Why Alliance of Sahel States is significant?</h2>

The alliance announcement succeeds the military pact signed between the three countries in August to allow Mali and Burkina Faso to send troops into Niger's territory in the event of military aggression against its new rulers.

The development is significant amid growing cooperation between 15-nation ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) bloc and the warnings of military intervention that it asserted after military's takeover of power in Niger in July.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/niger-nuclear-reserves-how-this-coup-can-throw-europe-into-deep-energy-crisis-621073">Niger nuclear reserves: How the coup can throw Europe into a deep energy crisis</a>

The agreement also calls for the three nations to take joint action against terrorist groups operating in their countries and to secure their borders.&nbsp;

For more than a decade, Africa's Sahel region — which includes countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Nigeria — has been infested with jihadist insurgencies contributing in their overall instability.&nbsp;

These jihadist insurgencies are largely perpetrated by terrorist networks linked to the Islamic State and the Al Qaeda.

"This alliance will be a combination of military and economic efforts between the three countries," Mali's Defence Minister Abdoulaye Diop told journalists.&nbsp;

"Our priority is the fight against terrorism in the three countries."

<h2>What does it mean for French interests in the region?</h2>

The alliance between three West African states, all ruled by military juntas and former French colonies, has been formalised amid souring ties between the three states and France.&nbsp;

All three signatory nations of the newly-formed Alliance of Sahel States were also the members of France-supported G5 Sahel alliance joint force with Chad and Mauritania being the&nbsp;other two allies. The G5 Sahel alliance, apart from its stated goals related to poverty alleviation, was also aimed to tackle terror groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.&nbsp;

The G5 Sahel Alliance, now largely dormant, was launched in 2017 by France, Germany and the European Union.&nbsp;

Niger’s military leaders have unilaterally cancelled military agreements under the G5 Sahel Alliance that allowed French forces to fight jihadists in the region, giving the former colonial power only a month to pull out its 1,500 troops. France, however, ignored the ultimatum and demands for its ambassador to leave. 
<img alt="Niger's leader General Abdourahmane Tiani during alliance's signing event in Tamako | X" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60f4373e-4261-4997-8673-a0de5d4f216a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-09-17T123828.601.png" />

Niger's leader General Abdourahmane Tiani during alliance's signing event in Tamako | X/Presidence du Niger

Mali left the G5 Sahel Alliance after a military coup. Even before the military coup in Niger, the democratically-elected President Mohamed Bazoum said in May last year that the force was "dead" following Mali's departure.

France was forced to withdraw its troops from Mali and Burkina Faso. It remains in a tense standoff with the junta that seized power in Niger after the new military rulers asked it to withdraw its troops and its ambassador.

Mali has also asked the UN peacekeeping mission MINUSMA to leave the country.

<h2>Who takes what from the newly forged alliance?</h2>

For Niger, the alliance provides a cover of security from the warnings of military intervention from ECOWAS.

But in security terms, Mali is set to gain the most from the alliance in the immediate future. &nbsp;

Mali, in addition to fighting terrorists linked to Al Qaeda and the Islamic State group, has also seen a resumption of hostilities by predominantly Tuareg armed groups over the past few weeks.

The escalation of these armed tensions risks stretching Mali's army to its limits.&nbsp;

While Mali's junta claims that it has managed to successfully turn around a dire security situation, independent reports have claimed the quite opposite.

Burkina Faso, under Ibrahim Tarore (34), is expected to lead the newly-formed alliance, due to semblance of stability that the world's youngest leader has managed to assert in the country, according to Radio Omega.

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The junta leaders of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger signed a charter to establish a defence alliance known as the Alliance of Sahel States. The alliance of the three West African nations signed by their military leaders on September 16, says that the three states will assist one another in the event of an attack on any one of them.

The junta leaders of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger signed a charter to establish a defence alliance known as the Alliance of Sahel States. The alliance of the three West African nations signed by their military leaders on September 16, says that the three states will assist one another in the event of an attack on any one of them. Alliance of Sahel States: How is it a NATO-style alliance? The alliance document's Article 6, much like NATO's Article 5, says that any attack on one or more signatory states will be considered an attack on all signatories. The four-page alliance document, seen by WION, states that the "need to continue the heroic struggles waged by the African people and countries for political independence, human dignity and economic emancipation", as defining tenet of the alliance. "Any attack on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of one or more contracted parties will be considered an aggression against the other parties," it says. It also binds the three countries to work to prevent or settle armed rebellions. Mali junta leader Goita hosted the signing event in capital Bamako | Presidence du Niger/X The Article 4 of the document underscore combating terrorism in all its forms and organised crime as "common area of the alliance" "I have today signed with the Heads of State of Burkina Faso and Niger the Liptako-Gourma charter establishing the Alliance of Sahel States, with the aim of establishing a collective defence and mutual assistance framework," Mali military leader Assimi Goita said on X, formerly known as Twitter. Why Alliance of Sahel States is significant? The alliance announcement succeeds the military pact signed between the three countries in August to allow Mali and Burkina Faso to send troops into Niger's territory in the event of military aggression against its new rulers. The development is significant amid growing cooperation between 15-nation ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) bloc and the warnings of military intervention that it asserted after military's takeover of power in Niger in July. Also read | Niger nuclear reserves: How the coup can throw Europe into a deep energy crisis The agreement also calls for the three nations to take joint action against terrorist groups operating in their countries and to secure their borders. For more than a decade, Africa's Sahel region — which includes countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Nigeria — has been infested with jihadist insurgencies contributing in their overall instability. These jihadist insurgencies are largely perpetrated by terrorist networks linked to the Islamic State and the Al Qaeda. "This alliance will be a combination of military and economic efforts between the three countries," Mali's Defence Minister Abdoulaye Diop told journalists. "Our priority is the fight against terrorism in the three countries." What does it mean for French interests in the region? The alliance between three West African states, all ruled by military juntas and former French colonies, has been formalised amid souring ties between the three states and France. All three signatory nations of the newly-formed Alliance of Sahel States were also the members of France-supported G5 Sahel alliance joint force with Chad and Mauritania being the other two allies. The G5 Sahel alliance, apart from its stated goals related to poverty alleviation, was also aimed to tackle terror groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. The G5 Sahel Alliance, now largely dormant, was launched in 2017 by France, Germany and the European Union. Niger’s military leaders have unilaterally cancelled military agreements under the G5 Sahel Alliance that allowed French forces to fight jihadists in the region, giving the former colonial power only a month to pull out its 1,500 troops. France, however, ignored the ultimatum and demands for its ambassador to leave. Niger's leader General Abdourahmane Tiani during alliance's signing event in Tamako | X/Presidence du Niger Mali left the G5 Sahel Alliance after a military coup. Even before the military coup in Niger, the democratically-elected President Mohamed Bazoum said in May last year that the force was "dead" following Mali's departure. France was forced to withdraw its troops from Mali and Burkina Faso. It remains in a tense standoff with the junta that seized power in Niger after the new military rulers asked it to withdraw its troops and its ambassador. Mali has also asked the UN peacekeeping mission MINUSMA to leave the country. Who takes what from the newly forged alliance? For Niger, the alliance provides a cover of security from the warnings of military intervention from ECOWAS. But in security terms, Mali is set to gain the most from the alliance in the immediate future. Mali, in addition to fighting terrorists linked to Al Qaeda and the Islamic State group, has also seen a resumption of hostilities by predominantly Tuareg armed groups over the past few weeks. The escalation of these armed tensions risks stretching Mali's army to its limits. While Mali's junta claims that it has managed to successfully turn around a dire security situation, independent reports have claimed the quite opposite. Burkina Faso, under Ibrahim Tarore (34), is expected to lead the newly-formed alliance, due to semblance of stability that the world's youngest leader has managed to assert in the country, according to Radio Omega. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | Military-ruled former French colonies forge NATO-style Alliance of Sahel States

The Italian island of Lampedusa is grappling with the new wave of migrant crisis. The island has been a witness to a record number of migrant landings, a vast majority of them arriving via sea from North Africa, Italy.

Italy: Lampedusa hit with record migrant arrival; baby drowns during migrant rescue operation

The United States and Saudi Arabia are negotiating&nbsp;to obtain metals in Africa that are required to support the two nations as they make the transition to alternative energy sources, a source-based report in&nbsp;The Wall Street Journal noted.

As per the report, a state-backed Saudi enterprise would purchase stakes in $15 billion worth of mining assets in African nations like the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, and Namibia, granting U.S. businesses the opportunity to purchase some of the production.

For supply of cobalt, lithium, and other metals used in electric car batteries, laptops, and cellphones, the U.S. is racing with China.

Saudi Arabian Mining Co (Ma'aden) and the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) acquired 10 per cent of Brazilian Vale’s base metal unit in a similar deal in July, while American investment group Engine No. 1 acquired 3 per cent.

The newspaper reported that the PIF contacted Congo in June about investing&nbsp;$3 billion, through its joint venture with Ma’aden, into the country's cobalt, copper, and tantalum industries.

Manara -- the joint venture between the PIF and&nbsp;Ma'aden --&nbsp;is also concentrating on nickel, lithium, and iron ore.

The White House is looking for financial support from other sovereign wealth funds in the area, but according to the Journal, negotiations with Saudi Arabia have advanced the most.

(With inputs from Reuters)

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The United States and Saudi Arabia are negotiating to obtain metals in Africa that are required to support the two nations as they make the transition to alternative energy sources, a source-based report in The Wall Street Journal noted.

The United States and Saudi Arabia are negotiating to obtain metals in Africa that are required to support the two nations as they make the transition to alternative energy sources, a source-based report in The Wall Street Journal noted. As per the report, a state-backed Saudi enterprise would purchase stakes in $15 billion worth of mining assets in African nations like the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, and Namibia, granting U.S. businesses the opportunity to purchase some of the production. For supply of cobalt, lithium, and other metals used in electric car batteries, laptops, and cellphones, the U.S. is racing with China. Saudi Arabian Mining Co (Ma'aden) and the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) acquired 10 per cent of Brazilian Vale’s base metal unit in a similar deal in July, while American investment group Engine No. 1 acquired 3 per cent. The newspaper reported that the PIF contacted Congo in June about investing $3 billion, through its joint venture with Ma’aden, into the country's cobalt, copper, and tantalum industries. Manara -- the joint venture between the PIF and Ma'aden -- is also concentrating on nickel, lithium, and iron ore. The White House is looking for financial support from other sovereign wealth funds in the area, but according to the Journal, negotiations with Saudi Arabia have advanced the most. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US, Saudi Arabia are in dialogue to secure metals in Africa: Report

At the United Nations general assembly, the African ministers called for expanding the security council to include permanent representation for their continent and stressed the vital role of socio-economic development in ensuring peace.

After G20, Africa now eyes UNSC

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