According to a recently completed annual assessment by IMF staff, growth in the democratic republic of the Congo (DRC) sharply rebounded from 1.7 percent in 2020 to an estimated 6.2 percent in 2021, well above the 4.5 percent rate in sub-saharan Africa. The strong recovery was driven by the country’s mining and services sector performance. Even though the country is doing great on one end, that has not trickled down to the citizens who are outraged by the rate of insecurity, living conditions, and cases of sexual abuse in the east.

Outraged citizens protest

Not many 3-year-olds can read and identify letters and shapes, but Lethukuthula is one who can. She first came into the limelight in 2022 when her mother, created a TikTok account and used it to share videos of her, reading words and sentences, or sounding out letters. She is now a prodigy.

Meet Africa's youngest 'kidfluencer'

The 54 member nations of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) will be divided into nine groups of six for the 2026 World Cup qualifying competition, the organisation said on Friday.

Africa reveals 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying format

<p>A Kenyan lion named Loonkiito,&nbsp;believed to be the world's oldest, has died after he was brutally&nbsp;impaled by Maasai morans (warriors) on Wednesday (May 10) night, according to local wildlife officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Loonkiito, who was 19 years old,&nbsp;died in the&nbsp;Olkelunyiet village, located in southern Kenya, bordering Amboseli National Park, while preying upon livestock. The village is famous for being the best place in Africa where tourists can get close to freely roaming wild elephants and other wildlife species.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lion Guardians, a Maasai-operated conservation group, took to Instagram and informed about&nbsp;Loonkiito's demise, referring to him as the "oldest male lion in their ecosystem and possibly in Africa".</p>

<p>"It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Loonkiito (2004-2023), the oldest male lion in our ecosystem and possibly in Africa. He died yesterday, on the 10th of May 2023 at 19 years old," read the caption.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He was a symbol of resilience and coexistence. We at Lion Guardians feel privileged to have borne witness to his life and his legacy. In the following weeks and months, we hope to share the extraordinary story of Loonkiito’s life with the world."</p>

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<p>The king of the jungle was killed because he ventured too close to human settlement. A combination of factors, primarily the drought and lack of food in the forest led the lion to hunt livestock as a last resort.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In desperation, lions often turn to take livestock," the group added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-south-african-rhino-poaching-drops-conservation-efforts-are-paying-off-509865" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: South African Rhino poaching drops; conservation efforts are paying off</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-south-african-rhino-poaching-drops-conservation-efforts-are-paying-off-509865/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-indian-state-is-opening-up-another-sanctuary-for-asiatic-lions-as-numbers-grow-exponentially-572574#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<h2><strong>Loonkiito was an aberration&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to experts, most lions do not live beyond 13 years in the wild, which made&nbsp;Loonkiito an anomaly. Though it is not confirmed by the Kenyan government if he was the oldest lion on the continent, his death has certainly made an impact and shows the increasing friction between man and animals.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-indian-state-is-opening-up-another-sanctuary-for-asiatic-lions-as-numbers-grow-exponentially-572574"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;THIS Indian state is opening up another sanctuary for Asiatic lions as numbers grow exponentially</strong></a></p>

<p>Paula Kahumbu, a wildlife conservationist and chief executive officer of WildlifeDirect, told BBC she was pained by the death of&nbsp;Loonkiito.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is the breaking point for human-wildlife conflict and we need to do more as a country to preserve lions, which are facing extinction," said Kahumbu.</p>

<p>Notably, apart from Africa, the majestic big cats are only found in India's Gir National Park in the western state of Gujarat.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


A Kenyan lion named Loonkiito, believed to be the world's oldest, has died after he was brutally impaled by Maasai morans (warriors) on Wednesday (May 10) night, according to local wildlife officials.

A Kenyan lion named Loonkiito, believed to be the world's oldest, has died after he was brutally impaled by Maasai morans (warriors) on Wednesday (May 10) night, according to local wildlife officials. Loonkiito, who was 19 years old, died in the Olkelunyiet village, located in southern Kenya, bordering Amboseli National Park, while preying upon livestock. The village is famous for being the best place in Africa where tourists can get close to freely roaming wild elephants and other wildlife species. Lion Guardians, a Maasai-operated conservation group, took to Instagram and informed about Loonkiito's demise, referring to him as the "oldest male lion in their ecosystem and possibly in Africa". "It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Loonkiito (2004-2023), the oldest male lion in our ecosystem and possibly in Africa. He died yesterday, on the 10th of May 2023 at 19 years old," read the caption. "He was a symbol of resilience and coexistence. We at Lion Guardians feel privileged to have borne witness to his life and his legacy. In the following weeks and months, we hope to share the extraordinary story of Loonkiito’s life with the world." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lion Guardians (@lionguardians_) × The king of the jungle was killed because he ventured too close to human settlement. A combination of factors, primarily the drought and lack of food in the forest led the lion to hunt livestock as a last resort. "In desperation, lions often turn to take livestock," the group added. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: South African Rhino poaching drops; conservation efforts are paying off × Loonkiito was an aberration According to experts, most lions do not live beyond 13 years in the wild, which made Loonkiito an anomaly. Though it is not confirmed by the Kenyan government if he was the oldest lion on the continent, his death has certainly made an impact and shows the increasing friction between man and animals. ALSO READ | THIS Indian state is opening up another sanctuary for Asiatic lions as numbers grow exponentially Paula Kahumbu, a wildlife conservationist and chief executive officer of WildlifeDirect, told BBC she was pained by the death of Loonkiito. "This is the breaking point for human-wildlife conflict and we need to do more as a country to preserve lions, which are facing extinction," said Kahumbu. Notably, apart from Africa, the majestic big cats are only found in India's Gir National Park in the western state of Gujarat. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wild lion Loonkiito, believed to be world‘s oldest, impaled to death in Kenya

Researchers in Senegal have begun the harvest of home-grown experimental wheat which will help reduce the country's reliance on imports.

Experiments to reduce reliance on imports

India is on its way to cement stronger ties with foreign nations around the world. It is trying to prove its mettle in the global arms trade. For this, India plans to carry out a major change in the deployment of defence attaches overseas. The move is seen as a bid to boost exports of made in India weapons.

What is India's new plan to boost exports of MADE IN INDIA weapons to Africa, West Asia?

<p>Gunmen abducted 40 people from a church in a remote village in northern Nigeria, a local Christian group said on Monday, in the latest attack against worshippers.</p>

<p>Armed gangs, known locally as bandits, have been abducting people from villages, schools and highways mostly in the northwest of the country, where government security is thin.</p>

<p>Reverend Joseph John Hayan, chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna state, said the attack took place on Sunday when gunmen attacked worshippers during a service at Bege Baptist Church, in Madala village, in Chikun local government area.</p>

<p>Chikun is among two districts in Kaduna where ransom-seeking armed gangs are most active.</p>

<p>Hayan, however, said 15 of those kidnapped escaped from their captors on Sunday night.</p>

<p>"We have not heard any contact for ransom or anything from them (gunmen) concerning the remaining people and we pray that the abductors would be merciful to release the remaining 25 back to their families," Hayan said.</p>

<p>A Kaduna police spokesperson did not respond to calls and messages to their mobile phone.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Gunmen abducted 40 people from a church in a remote village in northern Nigeria, a local Christian group said on Monday, in the latest attack against worshippers.

Gunmen abducted 40 people from a church in a remote village in northern Nigeria, a local Christian group said on Monday, in the latest attack against worshippers. Armed gangs, known locally as bandits, have been abducting people from villages, schools and highways mostly in the northwest of the country, where government security is thin. Reverend Joseph John Hayan, chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna state, said the attack took place on Sunday when gunmen attacked worshippers during a service at Bege Baptist Church, in Madala village, in Chikun local government area. Chikun is among two districts in Kaduna where ransom-seeking armed gangs are most active. Hayan, however, said 15 of those kidnapped escaped from their captors on Sunday night. "We have not heard any contact for ransom or anything from them (gunmen) concerning the remaining people and we pray that the abductors would be merciful to release the remaining 25 back to their families," Hayan said. A Kaduna police spokesperson did not respond to calls and messages to their mobile phone. 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.

Gunmen in Nigeria kidnap 40 worshippers from church

Japanese prime minister Fumio Kishida’s one-week diplomatic tour of Africa — his first trip to the continent since assuming office — is seen as a chance to reaffirm Japan’s role in the region and stimulate private investment amid growing Chinese and Russian influence. The prime minister will deepen discussions with each leader in the continent, confirm cooperation and connect this to the g7 Hiroshima summit, which japan is Charing. Earlier Kishida had visited Ukraine and the U.S. Amid the war. What is japan looking to gain from Kishida's outreach program? WION's Eric Njoka talks to dr. Satoru Nagao, a fellow at Hudson institute for more perspective.

PM Kishida reaches out to Ukraine & now Africa

The death toll is rising in the Kenyan cult deaths. More mass graves have been discovered. How many more cults does Kenya have? Will the police discover more mass graves? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: The Kenya Christian cult deaths

Leaders of the Yoruba language in Nigeria urge stakeholders to rise up as language and culture declines due to western influence.

Western influence erodes language

<p>Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) said that it has agreed to a 72-hour “humanitarian truce” from 6:00 (local time), on Friday (April 21) coinciding with the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr. This comes as the United Nations refugee agency UNHRC and World Food Programme (WFP) said that between 10,000 to 20,000 people have taken refuge in neighbouring Chad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Announcement of the ceasefire</strong></p>

<p>“The truce coincides with the blessed Eid al-Fitr...to open humanitarian corridors to evacuate citizens and give them the opportunity to greet their families,” said the RSF, on Twitter. This comes as the Sudanese capital of Khartoum&nbsp;continued to be rocked by&nbsp;bombing and shelling&nbsp;on Friday, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“At this moment, when citizens are preparing to receive the first day of Eid al-Fitr, the neighbourhoods of Khartoum are waking up to the bombings of aircrafts and heavy artillery in a sweeping attack that is directly targeting residential neighbourhoods,” said RSF, in a previous statement on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fighting which began nearly a week ago between the Sudanese army and its paramilitary has since led to the death of at least 350 people, as per reports, as conflicting accounts from both sides continue. The RSF said that it acted in “self-defence” to repel a supposed coup attempt and is committed to a “complete ceasefire” during the armistice period.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the army chief,&nbsp;General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has not mentioned anything about a ceasefire, as of now. Burhan who had&nbsp;posted a statement on Friday&nbsp;to&nbsp;mark Eid al-Fitr, the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan. "We mourn all the victims of my country and pray for the recovery of those injured and pray to God that this occasion of Eid returns in safety and peace," said the army chief, in a pre-recorded&nbsp;statement posted on Facebook.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, he had earlier told Al Jazeera that he would support a truce if citizens are allowed to move freely, something that he said was being prevented by the RSF.&nbsp;Notably,&nbsp;the&nbsp;RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo has said that he would agree to&nbsp;short ceasefires but they have previously failed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Thousands flee to Chad</strong></p>

<p>According to UN agencies, about 10,000 to 20,000 people have taken refuge in villages along the border inside neighbouring Chad. This comes as gunfire and explosions sounded across Khartoum, on Thursday. Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged for a three-day ceasefire to allow civilians to reach safety.</p>

<p>“There was a strong consensus on condemning ongoing fighting in Sudan and calling for cessation of hostilities as an immediate priority,” said Guterres, following a meeting with the heads of the African Union, the Arab League and other organisations on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) said that it has agreed to a 72-hour “humanitarian truce” from 6:00 (local time), on Friday (April 21) coinciding with the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr.

Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) said that it has agreed to a 72-hour “humanitarian truce” from 6:00 (local time), on Friday (April 21) coinciding with the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr. This comes as the United Nations refugee agency UNHRC and World Food Programme (WFP) said that between 10,000 to 20,000 people have taken refuge in neighbouring Chad. Announcement of the ceasefire “The truce coincides with the blessed Eid al-Fitr...to open humanitarian corridors to evacuate citizens and give them the opportunity to greet their families,” said the RSF, on Twitter. This comes as the Sudanese capital of Khartoum continued to be rocked by bombing and shelling on Friday, reported Reuters. “At this moment, when citizens are preparing to receive the first day of Eid al-Fitr, the neighbourhoods of Khartoum are waking up to the bombings of aircrafts and heavy artillery in a sweeping attack that is directly targeting residential neighbourhoods,” said RSF, in a previous statement on Friday. The fighting which began nearly a week ago between the Sudanese army and its paramilitary has since led to the death of at least 350 people, as per reports, as conflicting accounts from both sides continue. The RSF said that it acted in “self-defence” to repel a supposed coup attempt and is committed to a “complete ceasefire” during the armistice period. Meanwhile, the army chief, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has not mentioned anything about a ceasefire, as of now. Burhan who had posted a statement on Friday to mark Eid al-Fitr, the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan. "We mourn all the victims of my country and pray for the recovery of those injured and pray to God that this occasion of Eid returns in safety and peace," said the army chief, in a pre-recorded statement posted on Facebook. However, he had earlier told Al Jazeera that he would support a truce if citizens are allowed to move freely, something that he said was being prevented by the RSF. Notably, the RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo has said that he would agree to short ceasefires but they have previously failed. Thousands flee to Chad According to UN agencies, about 10,000 to 20,000 people have taken refuge in villages along the border inside neighbouring Chad. This comes as gunfire and explosions sounded across Khartoum, on Thursday. Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged for a three-day ceasefire to allow civilians to reach safety. “There was a strong consensus on condemning ongoing fighting in Sudan and calling for cessation of hostilities as an immediate priority,” said Guterres, following a meeting with the heads of the African Union, the Arab League and other organisations on Thursday. (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.

RSF fighters agree to 72-hour ceasefire for Eid; thousands flee from Sudan to Chad

Africa in space? I am sure you have not heard that before, but it seems it is going to be a term that we will be getting used to in the near future. Did you know that South Africa, Angola, and Algeria, have a satellite in space, and now Kenya has entered the race with the blasting off, of its taifa-1, or one-nation rocket.

Africa's space venture | World Of Africa

Nollywood, is big business in Africa. They are the creators of Nigerian movies, whose popularity and fame have spread fast across the continent. Online streaming platforms Netflix and UNESCO are now seeking a breakthrough for African cinema. Our correspondent Louisa Olaniyi reports.

Redefining Nigeria's Nollywood | World of Africa

<p>At least 20 people were killed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in an attack&nbsp;on Friday (April 7), said local authorities. The next day, Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack on a village in eastern Congo, in a statement on its Telegram channel. This also comes days after another attack by the same group in neighbouring Ituri province, in which 30 people were killed, as per the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>The attack on Musandaba</strong></p>

<p>The attack, on Friday, took place in a village named Musandaba which is on the outskirts of the city of Beni, in the eastern part of the country. “We counted about 20 dead on Friday in the village of Musandaba,” said regional military administrator Colonel Charles Omeonga, as per media reports. He also attributed the attack to the “ADF terrorists,” reported AFP. &nbsp;</p>

<p>However, local civil society leader Patrick Mukohe told AFP that he counted at least 21 bodies of men and women at the site of the massacre which was some 30 kilometres west of the town of Oicha. He blamed the attack on the “enemy” ADF (Allied Democratic Forces) who “ambushed farmers at around 4:00 pm (local time)...near the village of Enebula”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the province in question is one of two conflict-hit regions which was placed under military administration over a year ago to combat growing violence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, the military spokesperson in the North Kivu region, Anthony Mwalushay said the attackers used machetes “to avoid confrontation with the army,” reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Previous attacks by the ADF and Islamic State</strong></p>

<p>The ADF group, which is said to be affiliated with the Islamic State and has insurgents from Uganda, has&nbsp;gained a foothold in eastern DR Congo since the 1990s. The group has been accused of killing thousands in the country. However, since 2019, many attacks by the ADF have been claimed by the Islamic State.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Thursday, the United Nations mission in Congo (MONUSCO) condemned the attack which had been carried out by the ADF and killed more than 30 people. Last month, the United States offered a reward of up to $5 million for any information about the group’s leader Seka Musa Baluku, reported AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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At least 20 people were killed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in an attack on Friday (April 7), said local authorities. The next day, Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack on a village in eastern Congo, in a statement on its Telegram channel.

At least 20 people were killed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in an attack on Friday (April 7), said local authorities. The next day, Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack on a village in eastern Congo, in a statement on its Telegram channel. This also comes days after another attack by the same group in neighbouring Ituri province, in which 30 people were killed, as per the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo. The attack on Musandaba The attack, on Friday, took place in a village named Musandaba which is on the outskirts of the city of Beni, in the eastern part of the country. “We counted about 20 dead on Friday in the village of Musandaba,” said regional military administrator Colonel Charles Omeonga, as per media reports. He also attributed the attack to the “ADF terrorists,” reported AFP. However, local civil society leader Patrick Mukohe told AFP that he counted at least 21 bodies of men and women at the site of the massacre which was some 30 kilometres west of the town of Oicha. He blamed the attack on the “enemy” ADF (Allied Democratic Forces) who “ambushed farmers at around 4:00 pm (local time)...near the village of Enebula”. Notably, the province in question is one of two conflict-hit regions which was placed under military administration over a year ago to combat growing violence. Additionally, the military spokesperson in the North Kivu region, Anthony Mwalushay said the attackers used machetes “to avoid confrontation with the army,” reported Reuters. Previous attacks by the ADF and Islamic State The ADF group, which is said to be affiliated with the Islamic State and has insurgents from Uganda, has gained a foothold in eastern DR Congo since the 1990s. The group has been accused of killing thousands in the country. However, since 2019, many attacks by the ADF have been claimed by the Islamic State. On Thursday, the United Nations mission in Congo (MONUSCO) condemned the attack which had been carried out by the ADF and killed more than 30 people. Last month, the United States offered a reward of up to $5 million for any information about the group’s leader Seka Musa Baluku, reported AFP. (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.

At least 20 killed in eastern Congo attack; Islamic State claims responsibility

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<p>At least 20 migrants have gone missing off the coast of Tunisia, as they tried to cross the treacherous Mediterranean to Italy, the judicial officials informed on Saturday. The authorities said their boat sank while trying to&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although the coast guard managed to rescue 17 others from the same boat off the southern city of Sfax, the others were still untraceable. Of the 17 saved, two are in critical condition, said Sfax court judge Faouzi Masmousdi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recent months have seen a great influx of migrants using Tunisia as the main departure point to enter Europe. earlier most migrants attempting to leave the conflict-ridden zones of Africa and the Middle East used to take the Libya route to enter the continent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Tunisia's coast lies just 150 kilometres (90 miles) from the Italian island of Lampedusa which makes it a lucrative option for the migrants to take the additional risk.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-boat-tragedy-14-people-from-sub-saharan-africa-drown-off-the-coast-54-rescued-570309" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Tunisia boat tragedy: 14 people from sub-Saharan Africa nations drown, 54 rescued</strong></a></p>

<p>Over 14,000 migrants have been either intercepted or rescued in the first three months of the year trying to enter Europe. The number is five times the figures recorded during the same period last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Coast guard patrols prevent 501 clandestine attempts to cross the maritime border and rescued 14,406 [refugees] including 13,138 from sub-Saharan African countries,” informed the government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Italy Boat Tragedy: 63 bodies found, 36 still missing</strong></p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-boat-tragedy-14-people-from-sub-saharan-africa-drown-off-the-coast-54-rescued-570309#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<p>Notably, this is not the first instance when an illegal boat crossing has gone awry for the migrants. Earlier this year, the Tunisian authorities discovered a sunken boat with 14 dead bodies while rescuing 54.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Coast guard patrols intercepted a group whose boat had sunk, rescuing 54 people of various sub-Saharan African nationalities, and recovering 14 bodies," read a statement released at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, seeing the large influx of migrants,<strong>&nbsp;</strong>Tunisia President Kais Saied in February ordered officials to take "urgent measures" to tackle irregular migration, claiming that "a criminal plot" was underway to change Tunisia's demography.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisias-interior-minister-a-close-aide-of-president-saied-resigns-573177" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Tunisia’s interior minister, a close aide of President Saied, resigns</strong></a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Nabil Ammar pleaded the international community that his&nbsp;country needed funding and equipment to better protect its borders.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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At least 20 migrants have gone missing off the coast of Tunisia, as they tried to cross the treacherous Mediterranean to Italy, the judicial officials informed on Saturday.

At least 20 migrants have gone missing off the coast of Tunisia, as they tried to cross the treacherous Mediterranean to Italy, the judicial officials informed on Saturday. The authorities said their boat sank while trying to Although the coast guard managed to rescue 17 others from the same boat off the southern city of Sfax, the others were still untraceable. Of the 17 saved, two are in critical condition, said Sfax court judge Faouzi Masmousdi. Recent months have seen a great influx of migrants using Tunisia as the main departure point to enter Europe. earlier most migrants attempting to leave the conflict-ridden zones of Africa and the Middle East used to take the Libya route to enter the continent. Notably, Tunisia's coast lies just 150 kilometres (90 miles) from the Italian island of Lampedusa which makes it a lucrative option for the migrants to take the additional risk. ALSO READ | Tunisia boat tragedy: 14 people from sub-Saharan Africa nations drown, 54 rescued Over 14,000 migrants have been either intercepted or rescued in the first three months of the year trying to enter Europe. The number is five times the figures recorded during the same period last year. “Coast guard patrols prevent 501 clandestine attempts to cross the maritime border and rescued 14,406 [refugees] including 13,138 from sub-Saharan African countries,” informed the government. ALSO WATCH | Italy Boat Tragedy: 63 bodies found, 36 still missing × Notably, this is not the first instance when an illegal boat crossing has gone awry for the migrants. Earlier this year, the Tunisian authorities discovered a sunken boat with 14 dead bodies while rescuing 54. "Coast guard patrols intercepted a group whose boat had sunk, rescuing 54 people of various sub-Saharan African nationalities, and recovering 14 bodies," read a statement released at the time. However, seeing the large influx of migrants, Tunisia President Kais Saied in February ordered officials to take "urgent measures" to tackle irregular migration, claiming that "a criminal plot" was underway to change Tunisia's demography. ALSO READ | Tunisia’s interior minister, a close aide of President Saied, resigns Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Nabil Ammar pleaded the international community that his country needed funding and equipment to better protect its borders. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

At least 20 migrants missing after boat drowns off Tunisian coast, 17 rescued

Tunisia, Africa's northernmost country, has imposed harsh water-use limits due to severe drought. The government has implemented a water rationing system and has prohibited the use of potable water for agricultural purposes. Hem Soraya brings you the report.

What is the future of Tunisia? | WION Climate Tracker

It was a walk 16-year-old Adama had done countless times, feeding the cows not far from his grandmother's house in northern Burkina Faso. But one day in mid-February, the teen who dreamed of becoming an imam didn't come home. The next time his family saw him, it was in a harrowing cellphone video circulating on social media in the days after his disappearance.

Troops film boys' killings in Burkina Faso

A new lethal virus arrived at our doorstep even before Covid-19 was over. The WHO has declared the first-ever outbreak of Marburg disease in two African countries. In Equatorial Guinea, there have been at least nine laboratory-confirmed cases. Seven of the reported cases resulted in the death.

Marburg outbreak in Africa: All you need to know about this lethal virus

US Vice President Kamala Harris Saturday wraps up her week-long diplomatic trip to Africa in Zambia. On the last day of her tour Harris visited Zambia's Panuka farm, where she promised more investment in technologies including those to improve weather forecasting and climate modelling.

Kamala Harris Africa Tour: US Vice President visits Zambia on last day

Africa's population is largely ill-insured against external shocks brought about by natural disasters, adverse climate, war and conflict. In reality, the continent continues to suffer immensely. The west or aid organisations pledging funds. However, where does all the money go? We believe it is time for Africans to get the answers to this pertinent question. Watch this special report and know why we insist, Africa must wake and stand up now.

World of Africa: Africa hit by climate change | Is the west failing Africa?

The United States will provide $100 million to Ghana and four other West African countries to help them deal with violent extremism and instability, Vice President Kamala Harris said on Monday during a visit to Ghana.

Kamala Harris starts Africa tour in Ghana, announces security aid

Even though demonstrations a week ago became violent and paralysed portions of Nairobi, the city, Raila Odinga, a veteran opposition leader, has urged people to take to the streets every Monday and Thursday. However, the authorities declared the rallies would be prohibited on Sunday.

Kenya: Opposition leader Odinga vows to hold protest rally despite ban

<p>The US Vice President Kamal Harris said that she is "excited" about the future of Africa as she started her nine-day trip in Ghana on Sunday (March 26). "What an honour it is to be here in Ghana and on the continent of Africa," said Harris when she arrived. School children, dancers and drummers welcomed Harris when she arrived in Ghana for the visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Harris said, "We are looking forward to this trip as a further statement of the long and enduring very important relationship and friendship between the people of the United States and those who live on this continent."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US vice president also said that she welcomed the chance to "witness firsthand the extraordinary innovation and creativity that is occurring on this continent". She also said that she wanted to promote economic growth and food security.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The visit is deemed crucial as the US is aiming to deepen American ties amid global competition over Africa's future. The US has been constantly monitoring China as Beijing has invested heavily in Africa in recent decades, including in infrastructure and resource development.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Nordic countries to establish unified air defence&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, Russian influence has also grown, including through the deployment of troops from Russia's private military contractor Wagner Group to aid governments in several countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After touching down in Ghana, Harris said, "On this trip I intend to do work that is focused on increasing investments here on the continent and facilitating economic growth and opportunity." Ghana is the first destination in a trip that will also include visits to Zambia and Tanzania.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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The US Vice President Kamal Harris said that she is "excited" about the future of Africa as she started her nine-day trip in Ghana on Sunday (March 26). "What an honour it is to be here in Ghana and on the continent of Africa," said Harris when she arrived.

The US Vice President Kamal Harris said that she is "excited" about the future of Africa as she started her nine-day trip in Ghana on Sunday (March 26). "What an honour it is to be here in Ghana and on the continent of Africa," said Harris when she arrived. School children, dancers and drummers welcomed Harris when she arrived in Ghana for the visit. Harris said, "We are looking forward to this trip as a further statement of the long and enduring very important relationship and friendship between the people of the United States and those who live on this continent." The US vice president also said that she welcomed the chance to "witness firsthand the extraordinary innovation and creativity that is occurring on this continent". She also said that she wanted to promote economic growth and food security. The visit is deemed crucial as the US is aiming to deepen American ties amid global competition over Africa's future. The US has been constantly monitoring China as Beijing has invested heavily in Africa in recent decades, including in infrastructure and resource development. WATCH | Nordic countries to establish unified air defence × Meanwhile, Russian influence has also grown, including through the deployment of troops from Russia's private military contractor Wagner Group to aid governments in several countries. After touching down in Ghana, Harris said, "On this trip I intend to do work that is focused on increasing investments here on the continent and facilitating economic growth and opportunity." Ghana is the first destination in a trip that will also include visits to Zambia and Tanzania. (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.

US Vice President Harris reaches Ghana, vows greater investment for Africa

In the most high-profile attempt to reach out to Africa, US Vice President Kamala Harris has begun her week-long trip to the continent. The visit aims to counter China and Russia's growing influence in this resource-rich region. She will be visiting Tanzania, Zambia and Ghana.

US Vice Pres Kamala Harris on visit to Africa, aims to counter China & Russia's growing influence

Africa, Tunisia, Senegal, South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya are seeing widespread protests over mismanaging governments. Is this wave of discontent similar to the 2010 #ArabSpring? Watch #WIONWideangle

WION Wideangle | Africa protests: Another Arab spring?

One year after Russia started its invasion of Ukraine. The consequence of the war was not just being felt in Europe but all across the globe, more importantly in the aid-dependent countries. Shivan Chanana tells you about the humanitarian crisis in Horn of Africa which is facing one of its worst droughts in 40 years.

Are food grains reaching Africa? | WION Climate Tracker

Countries in the four cardinal points of Africa witnessed many ruckuses on March 20th. Angry citizens of Kenya in the East, South Africa in the South, Senegal in the West, and Tunisia in the North— protested against the high cost of living, seeking constitutional reforms and a change in leadership.

Anti-government protests in four nations

Cancer patients undergoing Chemotherapy often lose their hair as a side effect of the treatment. A beautician in Nairobi is helping to improve Cancer patients' self-esteem with free wigs and makeovers.

Salon in Nairobi for Cancer patients | World Of Africa

Libyan boxers nowadays fight and train in Tripoli. The sport was banned by former dictator Muammar Gaddafi from 1979 until his downfall in 2011. Since then, athletes have strived to revive boxing and boxers have shone in various competitions.

Sport recovers from Gaddafi-era knockout | World of Africa

Chinese nationals were killed in cold-blood in the Central African Republic. Gunmen stormed a Chinese-operated gold mining site which was recently launched outside capital Bangui. Xi Jinping orders immediate evacuation of Chinese nations and demands severe punishment for the perpetrators. The suspected militant group behind the attack denies any involvement and blames the Russian mercenary group Wagner for the deadly attack.

Chinese nationals killed by Russian mercenaries in Central Africa?

Africa is no stranger to floods, drought, cyclones & storms. From deadly floods to a devastating drought. Africa has faced a run of severe & sometimes unprecedented extreme weather events. Floods, droughts & cyclones are the most commonly occurring.

Cyclone Freddy aftermath: A look at Africa's deadliest storms

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