Zimbabwe is six weeks away from elections. The opposition party cried foul over police banning them from holding a rally to officially launch their election campaign. With the poll date closing in, can the country's history of violent elections be avoided?

Opposition protests cancelled rally

Tunisia's coastal city of Sfax is reeling under racial violence, with migrants from sub-Saharan Africa a key target. When will the intense hardship for the migrants end?

Racial tensions in Tunisia

Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi is embarking on a three-day African nation beginning tomorrow. It marks the first step by an Iranian President to Africa in 11 years. Iran has stepped up its foreign diplomacy in recent months.

Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi to visit Kenya, Uganda and Zimbabwe; steps up diplomacy

As part of the most recent diplomatic initiatives to lessen the Islamic Republic's isolation by forming new relationships, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will set off on a rare African tour on Tuesday. It will be the first journey to Africa by an Iranian president in 11 years, and it will last for three days, visiting Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.

Iranian President Raisi embarking on 3-day tour of Africa

Kenyans in multiple cities across the country took to the streets in protest of a new finance law which has sought to raise taxes including doubling the fuel tax as well as introducing a housing levy for employees, reported the local media. This has since reportedly prompted the Kenyan police to fire teargas in a crowd of thousands of opposition protesters, on Friday (July 7) to disperse the protesters in the capital city of Nairobi.

<h2>Protests&nbsp;on Friday</h2>

According to local media reports, the protests that began at around 9:00 am (local time), on Friday called for by the opposition leader Raila Odinga, gained momentum across the country by afternoon,&nbsp;over a raft of controversial tax hikes.&nbsp;

The Kenyan police also fired tear gas in the capital city of Nairobi to disperse the protesters who had barricaded sections of two roads, reported the Daily Nation newspaper. Additionally, the local media has also reported that shops and businesses were closed in downtown Nairobi, while they were still open in the main central business district.&nbsp;

There was also reportedly a heavy deployment of police in the capital city’s central business district where the main government buildings are located with officers patrolling on foot, in vehicles and on horseback. Additionally, several roads in Nairobi were also closed.&nbsp;

The protests have been dubbed “Saba Saba” (Seven Seven) as it is taking place on the seventh day of the seventh month. Odinga also addressed a crowd of at least 2,000 supporters in an open ground just outside of the main business district in the afternoon.&nbsp;

According to the Daily Nation, police also fired tear gas at the Azimio la Umoja leader’s convoy after the party leaders told supporters at Kamukunji Grounds to march to Nairobi’s Central Park. However, some protesters also threw rocks at officers before turning back after the police started firing teargas to stop the crowd, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

Tear gas was fired to disperse protesters in the city of Mombasa as people chanted “the struggle is not over,” reported the news agency AFP. Meanwhile, footage aired by&nbsp;KTN News shows motorists taking u-turns and scrambling to get away from the tear-gas-drenched street in Mombasa while protesters fled on foot.&nbsp;

According to reports protesters also clashed with the police in Kisii municipality where demonstrators blocked several roads into the area.

Dozens arrested 
 
According to a coalition of human rights groups said police&nbsp;arrested 17 protesters in&nbsp;Nairobi. In a statement, the&nbsp;group of 10 watchdogs said "We witnessed protesters being dragged on the ground," and called for an investigation into police&nbsp;during the protests. However, the arrests were not immediately confirmed by officials.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the new finance bill about?</h2>

In recent weeks, Odinga’s Azimio alliance has repeatedly called for anti-government protests over the impact of the tax increases which have been opposed at a time when people in the country are struggling to buy basic commodities such as maize flour.

“I hope this demo will make a difference,” a 24-year-old manual worker, Alex Dwisa, told AFP. He added, “The cost of living is too high, I don’t have 10k (10,000 Kenyan shillings/$70) to send my two kids to school.”

The Finance Act would impose new taxes or increases on a range of basic goods such as fuel, food as well as mobile money transfers. The bill recently signed into law has also sought to levy additional taxes on Kenyans to fund a housing scheme.

This comes as President William Ruto signed the finance bill into law which is expected to raise an extra 200 billion shillings ($1.42 billion) a year to help the country’s growing debt repayment. Ruto’s government has previously defended the decision to raise taxes and said it would also help create jobs and reduce public borrowing.&nbsp;

Critics have also accused Ruto of backing out on his election campaign promises. “Kenyans elected leaders to parliament and they have betrayed them,” said Odinga on Friday, as quoted by AFP. He added, “Ruto himself who took over power illegally has betrayed Kenyans.”&nbsp;

This also comes as last week, the High Court suspended the implementation of the finance law. However, the incumbent government raised retail prices of petrol anyway, prompting an opposition senator to file a case against the head of the energy sector regulator for contempt and sought imprisonment.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
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Kenyans in multiple cities across the country took to the streets in protest of a new finance law which has sought to raise taxes including doubling the fuel tax as well as introducing a housing levy for employees, reported the local media.

Kenyans in multiple cities across the country took to the streets in protest of a new finance law which has sought to raise taxes including doubling the fuel tax as well as introducing a housing levy for employees, reported the local media. This has since reportedly prompted the Kenyan police to fire teargas in a crowd of thousands of opposition protesters, on Friday (July 7) to disperse the protesters in the capital city of Nairobi. Protests on Friday According to local media reports, the protests that began at around 9:00 am (local time), on Friday called for by the opposition leader Raila Odinga, gained momentum across the country by afternoon, over a raft of controversial tax hikes. The Kenyan police also fired tear gas in the capital city of Nairobi to disperse the protesters who had barricaded sections of two roads, reported the Daily Nation newspaper. Additionally, the local media has also reported that shops and businesses were closed in downtown Nairobi, while they were still open in the main central business district. There was also reportedly a heavy deployment of police in the capital city’s central business district where the main government buildings are located with officers patrolling on foot, in vehicles and on horseback. Additionally, several roads in Nairobi were also closed. The protests have been dubbed “Saba Saba” (Seven Seven) as it is taking place on the seventh day of the seventh month. Odinga also addressed a crowd of at least 2,000 supporters in an open ground just outside of the main business district in the afternoon. According to the Daily Nation, police also fired tear gas at the Azimio la Umoja leader’s convoy after the party leaders told supporters at Kamukunji Grounds to march to Nairobi’s Central Park. However, some protesters also threw rocks at officers before turning back after the police started firing teargas to stop the crowd, reported Reuters. Tear gas was fired to disperse protesters in the city of Mombasa as people chanted “the struggle is not over,” reported the news agency AFP. Meanwhile, footage aired by KTN News shows motorists taking u-turns and scrambling to get away from the tear-gas-drenched street in Mombasa while protesters fled on foot. According to reports protesters also clashed with the police in Kisii municipality where demonstrators blocked several roads into the area. Dozens arrested According to a coalition of human rights groups said police arrested 17 protesters in Nairobi. In a statement, the group of 10 watchdogs said "We witnessed protesters being dragged on the ground," and called for an investigation into police during the protests. However, the arrests were not immediately confirmed by officials. What is the new finance bill about? In recent weeks, Odinga’s Azimio alliance has repeatedly called for anti-government protests over the impact of the tax increases which have been opposed at a time when people in the country are struggling to buy basic commodities such as maize flour. “I hope this demo will make a difference,” a 24-year-old manual worker, Alex Dwisa, told AFP. He added, “The cost of living is too high, I don’t have 10k (10,000 Kenyan shillings/$70) to send my two kids to school.” The Finance Act would impose new taxes or increases on a range of basic goods such as fuel, food as well as mobile money transfers. The bill recently signed into law has also sought to levy additional taxes on Kenyans to fund a housing scheme. This comes as President William Ruto signed the finance bill into law which is expected to raise an extra 200 billion shillings ($1.42 billion) a year to help the country’s growing debt repayment. Ruto’s government has previously defended the decision to raise taxes and said it would also help create jobs and reduce public borrowing. Critics have also accused Ruto of backing out on his election campaign promises. “Kenyans elected leaders to parliament and they have betrayed them,” said Odinga on Friday, as quoted by AFP. He added, “Ruto himself who took over power illegally has betrayed Kenyans.” This also comes as last week, the High Court suspended the implementation of the finance law. However, the incumbent government raised retail prices of petrol anyway, prompting an opposition senator to file a case against the head of the energy sector regulator for contempt and sought imprisonment. (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.

Kenyan police fire tear gas to stop opposition protests over tax hikes, dozens arrested

Three Chinese warships have arrived in Nigeria. This is the Chinese navy's rare foray into West Africa. Is China eyeing the Gulf of Guinea to build a military base? Molly Gambhir tells you more

Gravitas: Is China planning to build a secret base in Africa?

Africa has become the second-largest recipient of credit from India as the country is making efforts to catch up with China in growing its impact in the resource-rich continent, as per a new report.

42 African nations have till now received about $32 billion or 38% of all credit extended by India in the last decade, just a few percentage points below its neighbours, Harsha Bangari, the managing director of India’s Export-Import Bank said as per a Bloomberg report.

Bangari further said that the funding is an instrument of India's “economic diplomacy.” She then added that India has also opened up 195 project-based lines of credit worth about $12 billion across Africa, which is three times the number it has in its own region in the last decade.

“Africa has made good use of credit lines,” extended for projects that include health care, infrastructure, agriculture and irrigation and India is seeing a steady increase in demand, she said.

India, despite its recent efforts to engage with nations in Africa, the world's second-largest continent, has lagged behind its bigger and wealthier neighbours.

While China’s loans to Africa have plunged since 2016, overall in the 10 years to 2020, it promised $134.6 billion to African nations, as per data from Boston University’s Global Development Policy Center. That's almost 11 times more than what India has offered, according to Bloomberg reports.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/odisha-train-mishap-centre-compromised-on-safety-claims-congress-612293">Odisha train mishap: Centre compromised on safety, claims Congress</a>

<h2>Indian government's efforts to push for deeper ties with Africa</h2>

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has pushed for more significant engagement with the world's second-largest continent, Africa, encouraging both economic and diplomatic ties.

India is looking at the opportunity to expand deeper into the continent as Africa is currently dealing with the economic fallout of the Covid pandemic and Russia’s war in Ukraine.

In the last nine years, 18 of the 25 new Indian embassies or consulates were in Africa. In February, India hosted 48 African countries at the Voice of Global South summit.&nbsp;

The Indian Prime Minister has also been advocating the country as a representative of the Global South and employing platforms like its presidency of the Group of 20 nations to draw attention to the debt crises in developing economies. &nbsp;

“We are trying to think 25 years from now,” India’s Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said in a speech on June 28.&nbsp;

“And ask ourselves where are we likely to be in 2047 and what should we be doing now to prepare for it,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Africa has become the second-largest recipient of credit from India as the country is making efforts to catch up with China in growing its impact in the resource-rich continent, as per a new report.

Africa has become the second-largest recipient of credit from India as the country is making efforts to catch up with China in growing its impact in the resource-rich continent, as per a new report. 42 African nations have till now received about $32 billion or 38% of all credit extended by India in the last decade, just a few percentage points below its neighbours, Harsha Bangari, the managing director of India’s Export-Import Bank said as per a Bloomberg report. Bangari further said that the funding is an instrument of India's “economic diplomacy.” She then added that India has also opened up 195 project-based lines of credit worth about $12 billion across Africa, which is three times the number it has in its own region in the last decade. “Africa has made good use of credit lines,” extended for projects that include health care, infrastructure, agriculture and irrigation and India is seeing a steady increase in demand, she said. India, despite its recent efforts to engage with nations in Africa, the world's second-largest continent, has lagged behind its bigger and wealthier neighbours. While China’s loans to Africa have plunged since 2016, overall in the 10 years to 2020, it promised $134.6 billion to African nations, as per data from Boston University’s Global Development Policy Center. That's almost 11 times more than what India has offered, according to Bloomberg reports. Also read: Odisha train mishap: Centre compromised on safety, claims Congress Indian government's efforts to push for deeper ties with Africa Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has pushed for more significant engagement with the world's second-largest continent, Africa, encouraging both economic and diplomatic ties. India is looking at the opportunity to expand deeper into the continent as Africa is currently dealing with the economic fallout of the Covid pandemic and Russia’s war in Ukraine. In the last nine years, 18 of the 25 new Indian embassies or consulates were in Africa. In February, India hosted 48 African countries at the Voice of Global South summit. The Indian Prime Minister has also been advocating the country as a representative of the Global South and employing platforms like its presidency of the Group of 20 nations to draw attention to the debt crises in developing economies. “We are trying to think 25 years from now,” India’s Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said in a speech on June 28. “And ask ourselves where are we likely to be in 2047 and what should we be doing now to prepare for it,” he said. (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.

India boosts Africa lending to counter China in expanding its influence in world’s second-largest continent

A group of armed officers dressed in plain clothes assigned to protect South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile were seen dragging a man out of his car and stomping on his head until he was motionless. The incident was caught on camera and has since been widely shared online, sparking outrage and drawing attention to the country’s problem with police brutality.&nbsp;

The deputy president’s office on Tuesday (July 4) confirmed that the officers involved were part of the security team protecting Mashatile. A statement by Mashatile’s office said the incident happened in Johannesburg over the weekend and that he “abhors any unnecessary use of force, particularly against unarmed civilians.”

What do we know about the incident?

The video posted on Twitter shows some officers dressed in suits,&nbsp;holding rifles, and dragging a man out of his car. Subsequently, the officers went on to kick and stomp on him till he was lying on his back motionless. They&nbsp;were also seen kicking a man who was holding his arms over his head to protest himself.&nbsp;

The footage shows some seven officers were involved, with at least three of them kicking and stomping on the men while two others were seen holding their rifles. A third man was also seen on the side of the road near the victims but it was not immediately clear if he was beaten or not.&nbsp; 
 
TRIGGER WARNING: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. Viewer discretion is advised.&nbsp;WION is not responsible for the content of the video.&nbsp;

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These are apparently VIP protection cops…happened in JHB. <a href="https://t.co/fgSNNpyK7s">pic.twitter.com/fgSNNpyK7s</a>
— Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) <a href="https://twitter.com/Abramjee/status/1675907501471019032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The video also shows a woman briefly stepping out of the vehicle, from which the man had presumably been dragged out, holding her hands above her head during the incident. The officers then proceeded to drive away in two SUVs.&nbsp;

The video of the alleged assault was shot by a person sitting in another car who was not involved and posted it on the microblogging platform.&nbsp;

The country's&nbsp;Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) said the department has launched a probe into 3,407 complaints of unlawful assault by police officers in the 2021-2022 financial year. This would amount to nearly 10 complaints per day.&nbsp;

South Africa’s ‘blue light brigade’

According to reports, officers involved in the beating belonged to South Africa’s infamous “blue light brigade” which has a reputation for using unnecessary force.&nbsp;

The unit’s officers have also previously been criticised for driving down highways at high speed and using force against drivers who do not immediately recognise the small blue lights and sirens of their vehicles and move out of the way, reported the Associated Press. 
 
The officers of this unit are also tasked with protecting South African politicians and other VIPs. 
 
The investigation so far 
 
Amid public outcry over the incident, IPID which deals with cases of misconduct by police launched an investigation into the alleged assault of the driver of the car and passengers by the officers.&nbsp;

In an update, on Tuesday, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said that they have successfully traced the victims of this incident and will take their statements as a part of the probe.&nbsp;

“The police officers involved have also been identified and will be subjected to internal processes,” said the national police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe.&nbsp;

This comes after the South African police had said that it “distances itself from the conduct and behaviour depicted in the video” as it does not align with its values and code of conduct.&nbsp;

“Members of the SAPS are meant to uphold and protect the fundamental rights of every person and exercise the powers conferred upon them in a responsible and controlled manner,” said South Africa’s national police commissioner, General Fannie Masemola.&nbsp;

He added, “Such action cannot be condoned regardless of the circumstance.”

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
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A group of armed officers dressed in plain clothes assigned to protect South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile were seen dragging a man out of his car and stomping on his head until he was motionless.

A group of armed officers dressed in plain clothes assigned to protect South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile were seen dragging a man out of his car and stomping on his head until he was motionless. The incident was caught on camera and has since been widely shared online, sparking outrage and drawing attention to the country’s problem with police brutality. The deputy president’s office on Tuesday (July 4) confirmed that the officers involved were part of the security team protecting Mashatile. A statement by Mashatile’s office said the incident happened in Johannesburg over the weekend and that he “abhors any unnecessary use of force, particularly against unarmed civilians.” What do we know about the incident? The video posted on Twitter shows some officers dressed in suits, holding rifles, and dragging a man out of his car. Subsequently, the officers went on to kick and stomp on him till he was lying on his back motionless. They were also seen kicking a man who was holding his arms over his head to protest himself. The footage shows some seven officers were involved, with at least three of them kicking and stomping on the men while two others were seen holding their rifles. A third man was also seen on the side of the road near the victims but it was not immediately clear if he was beaten or not. TRIGGER WARNING: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video. These are apparently VIP protection cops…happened in JHB. pic.twitter.com/fgSNNpyK7s — Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) July 3, 2023 × The video also shows a woman briefly stepping out of the vehicle, from which the man had presumably been dragged out, holding her hands above her head during the incident. The officers then proceeded to drive away in two SUVs. The video of the alleged assault was shot by a person sitting in another car who was not involved and posted it on the microblogging platform. The country's Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) said the department has launched a probe into 3,407 complaints of unlawful assault by police officers in the 2021-2022 financial year. This would amount to nearly 10 complaints per day. South Africa’s ‘blue light brigade’ According to reports, officers involved in the beating belonged to South Africa’s infamous “blue light brigade” which has a reputation for using unnecessary force. The unit’s officers have also previously been criticised for driving down highways at high speed and using force against drivers who do not immediately recognise the small blue lights and sirens of their vehicles and move out of the way, reported the Associated Press. The officers of this unit are also tasked with protecting South African politicians and other VIPs. The investigation so far Amid public outcry over the incident, IPID which deals with cases of misconduct by police launched an investigation into the alleged assault of the driver of the car and passengers by the officers. In an update, on Tuesday, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said that they have successfully traced the victims of this incident and will take their statements as a part of the probe. “The police officers involved have also been identified and will be subjected to internal processes,” said the national police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe. This comes after the South African police had said that it “distances itself from the conduct and behaviour depicted in the video” as it does not align with its values and code of conduct. “Members of the SAPS are meant to uphold and protect the fundamental rights of every person and exercise the powers conferred upon them in a responsible and controlled manner,” said South Africa’s national police commissioner, General Fannie Masemola. He added, “Such action cannot be condoned regardless of the circumstance.” (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.

Video of South African deputy president’s security stomping on man sparks outrage, probe underway

Youths in Tunisia protests over killing of local resident by migrants 

Legal & medical standards defined by the WHO aim to improve access to safe abortion. Abortion conversation in Africa going the opposite direction to the US.

Is Africa becoming liberal with abortions?

South Africa is hosting the BRICS Sherpa meeting from July 4th to July 6th in Durban, with the expansion of the grouping as a key agenda.

South Africa to host BRICS Sherpa meeting with expansion as the agenda

Kenyan firms are facing a dollar shortage, hindering their expansion capacity and impacting revenues.

Kenyan firms struggle with dollar shortage

Young women in Morocco are reviving the centuries-old art of Nawa and bringing an inclusive energy to the spiritual music repertoire, which gained global recognition as intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2019.

Women in Morocco revive centuries-old Nawa art and change fashion industry

A woman was killed in Sierra Leone by the police who reportedly fired shots and tear gas at the main opposition party headquarters in the capital Freetown while they were awaiting the results of the recently-concluded elections. The victim was later identified as a nurse and party volunteer who was reported to be severely wounded, on Sunday.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened on Sunday?</h2>

The West African nation recently conducted its presidential election where incumbent President Julius Maada Bio, was reelected on Tuesday. However, the count has been disputed by the opposition.&nbsp;

The incident took place, on Sunday, the opposition’s presidential candidate Samura Kamara of All People’s Congress (APC)&nbsp;in a series of tweets said that his party headquarters has been surrounded by the military and live bullets had been fired at his office.&nbsp;

“I have been barricaded in my APC party headquarters during my live press conference. Live bullets and teargas fired at my offices by government forces,” said the APC presidential candidate.&nbsp; 
 
“People laying on the floor and the military has surrounded the building,” said Kamara, in a separate tweet. He added, “Live bullets fired at my private office at the Party headquarters. This is an assassination attempt.”

The party HQ in the capital city of Freetown was reportedly surrounded by police officers and the presidential guard during a post-election press conference. Kamara also said that “foreign journalists trapped in my office.”

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Live from my party office. People laying on the floor and the military has surrounded the building. Live bullets fired at my private office at the Part headquarters. This is an assassination attempt. <a href="https://twitter.com/UKinSierraLeone?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UKinSierraLeone</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/_AfricanUnion?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@_AfricanUnion</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/USEmbFreetown?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USEmbFreetown</a> Live shots at my door. Foreign… <a href="https://t.co/ad21VISNiA">pic.twitter.com/ad21VISNiA</a>
— SamuraKamara2023 (@samurakamara201) <a href="https://twitter.com/samurakamara201/status/1673045382668902402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Reuters, on Sunday, also reported that one woman was found severely wounded around the neck area and was found without a pulse. The news agency also said&nbsp;that the window of the room she was found in, had a “shattered hole the size of a fist.”

According to media reports, around 200 members of the security forces blocked access to the APC’s HQ in Freetown.

“We were just here on a press conference, then the next thing we knew we started hearing firing, and our whole office is surrounded by police and army,” said party spokesperson, Sidi Yaya Tunis, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

<h2>She 'died a hero': Victim's son on&nbsp;party volunteer's&nbsp;death</h2>

The woman was later identified as 64-year-old Hawa Dumbuya, who was a nurse and party volunteer, was found to be shot in the head, reported the Guardian.

Dumbuya’s 26-year-old son, Ibrahim Conceh, said that his mother “died a hero for me,” as quoted by the British media report.&nbsp;

He added, “She died for a righteous cause. Until her last breath, she was administering care for injured people. I want the international community to find the killer or the person who ordered such a barbaric act. I want justice.”

According to the Guardian, the 26-year-old who is also a law student has been unable to retrieve his mother’s body since it was taken to the mortuary by police and&nbsp;wishes to bury it in accordance with the Islamic tradition.&nbsp;

“I don’t know the games they are playing,” said Conceh, as quoted by the British media report, adding that he also doesn’t understand “why they want to hold her body.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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A woman was killed in Sierra Leone by the police who reportedly fired shots and tear gas at the main opposition party headquarters in the capital Freetown while they were awaiting the results of the recently-concluded elections.

A woman was killed in Sierra Leone by the police who reportedly fired shots and tear gas at the main opposition party headquarters in the capital Freetown while they were awaiting the results of the recently-concluded elections. The victim was later identified as a nurse and party volunteer who was reported to be severely wounded, on Sunday. What happened on Sunday? The West African nation recently conducted its presidential election where incumbent President Julius Maada Bio, was reelected on Tuesday. However, the count has been disputed by the opposition. The incident took place, on Sunday, the opposition’s presidential candidate Samura Kamara of All People’s Congress (APC) in a series of tweets said that his party headquarters has been surrounded by the military and live bullets had been fired at his office. “I have been barricaded in my APC party headquarters during my live press conference. Live bullets and teargas fired at my offices by government forces,” said the APC presidential candidate. “People laying on the floor and the military has surrounded the building,” said Kamara, in a separate tweet. He added, “Live bullets fired at my private office at the Party headquarters. This is an assassination attempt.” The party HQ in the capital city of Freetown was reportedly surrounded by police officers and the presidential guard during a post-election press conference. Kamara also said that “foreign journalists trapped in my office.” Live from my party office. People laying on the floor and the military has surrounded the building. Live bullets fired at my private office at the Part headquarters. This is an assassination attempt. @UKinSierraLeone @_AfricanUnion @USEmbFreetown Live shots at my door. Foreign… pic.twitter.com/ad21VISNiA — SamuraKamara2023 (@samurakamara201) June 25, 2023 × Reuters, on Sunday, also reported that one woman was found severely wounded around the neck area and was found without a pulse. The news agency also said that the window of the room she was found in, had a “shattered hole the size of a fist.” According to media reports, around 200 members of the security forces blocked access to the APC’s HQ in Freetown. “We were just here on a press conference, then the next thing we knew we started hearing firing, and our whole office is surrounded by police and army,” said party spokesperson, Sidi Yaya Tunis, as quoted by Reuters. She 'died a hero': Victim's son on party volunteer's death The woman was later identified as 64-year-old Hawa Dumbuya, who was a nurse and party volunteer, was found to be shot in the head, reported the Guardian. Dumbuya’s 26-year-old son, Ibrahim Conceh, said that his mother “died a hero for me,” as quoted by the British media report. He added, “She died for a righteous cause. Until her last breath, she was administering care for injured people. I want the international community to find the killer or the person who ordered such a barbaric act. I want justice.” According to the Guardian, the 26-year-old who is also a law student has been unable to retrieve his mother’s body since it was taken to the mortuary by police and wishes to bury it in accordance with the Islamic tradition. “I don’t know the games they are playing,” said Conceh, as quoted by the British media report, adding that he also doesn’t understand “why they want to hold her body.” (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.

Sierra Leone elections: Woman killed after police fired shots at opposition party HQ

As the pandemic becomes a thing of the past, various cultural events and activities have resumed in various African countries. On one hand, Morocco resumed its musical festival, 'Nau-Wa'; on the other hand, Kenya's World Rally Championship made a successful comeback.

Events galore in Morocco, Kenya: Concerts, safari rallies mark return

Africa lacks a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council — a situation that will likely remain for a long time. There are growing calls for the African Union to be included in international forums, not only the UNSC but also the G7 and G20 groups of nations. But, does membership in informal multi-lateral clubs offer Africa a useful alternative voice on global decisions?

Modi, Scholz bat for Africa in G20

A total of 350&nbsp;migrants were rescued from&nbsp;five separate vessels, on Thursday (June 22), near Spain’s Canary Islands, said officials, as per news agency AFP. This comes a day after more than 30 migrants were feared dead after their inflatable dinghy sank in the Atlantic Ocean off the Canary Islands on the same route, said two migrant charities.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened on Thursday?</h2>

Officials in the Canary Islands on Thursday said that night emergency services had assisted 114 migrants in two separate boats, as per Reuters. They also said that a total of 53 people were taken to Lanzarote, another Spanish island, while 61 migrants, including a baby and his mother, were taken to a hospital in Gran Canaria.

Images and videos from the rescue operations show some migrants covered in red blankets arriving at the Arguineguin port in Gran Canaria as the rescue workers help people including children disembark.&nbsp;

According to the emergency services, on Thursday morning, a third boat was spotted by the coast guard with some 54 people on board who were also taken to Lanzarote. Later in the&nbsp;day, another boat with 59 migrants, including three children, on board arrived in Arguineguin, reported Reuters citing TV footage.&nbsp;

<h2>More than 30 feared dead after dinghy carrying 60 sinks</h2>

This comes a day after Walking Borders and Alarm Phone, as per BBC, said that the dinghy was carrying around 60 people. According to Spanish authorities, emergency services found the bodies of a minor and a man and rescued 24 other people, however, it was not immediately clear how many people were on board.&nbsp;

According to BBC, Helena Maleno Garzon&nbsp;from NGO Walking Borders, said that 39 people, including four women and a baby, had drowned. Meanwhile, Alarm Phone said 35 people were missing. As per reports, the boat sank about 160 kilometres off the coast of Gran Canaria on Wednesday.&nbsp; 
 
Spanish rescue service ship, the Guardamar Calliope, said that the boat was only an hour’s sail away but they did not aid the boat since Moroccan officials had reported dispatching a patrol boat that arrived on Wednesday morning.&nbsp;

It was 10 hours after the dinghy was first spotted by a Spanish rescue plane, reported the news agency. The incident has since sparked criticism from migration-focused organisations. The Spanish Maritime Rescue received a distress call on Tuesday evening and promptly dispatched a plane from the Canary Islands to locate the boat.&nbsp;

However, Moroccan authorities took charge of the rescue operation, and a merchant ship in the vicinity also responded to the alert, eventually assisting in rescuing the 24 survivors. The Canary Islands have witnessed a sharp increase in migrants this month.&nbsp;

The Spanish archipelago’s migration lawyer Loueila Mint El Mamy said, “Numbers were falling so far this year, but there was an increase this month that surprised everybody. Only in June, close to 2,000 people have arrived,” as per Reuters.&nbsp;

According to data from the United Nations International Organisation for Migration, at least 559 people, including children, died in 2022 on the route typically used by migrants from sub-Saharan Africa to reach the Canary Islands.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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A total of 350 migrants were rescued from five separate vessels, on Thursday (June 22), near Spain’s Canary Islands, said officials, as per news agency AFP. This comes a day after more than 30 migrants were feared dead after their inflatable dinghy sank in the Atlantic Ocean off the Canary Islands on the same route, said two migrant charities.

A total of 350 migrants were rescued from five separate vessels, on Thursday (June 22), near Spain’s Canary Islands, said officials, as per news agency AFP. This comes a day after more than 30 migrants were feared dead after their inflatable dinghy sank in the Atlantic Ocean off the Canary Islands on the same route, said two migrant charities. What happened on Thursday? Officials in the Canary Islands on Thursday said that night emergency services had assisted 114 migrants in two separate boats, as per Reuters. They also said that a total of 53 people were taken to Lanzarote, another Spanish island, while 61 migrants, including a baby and his mother, were taken to a hospital in Gran Canaria. Images and videos from the rescue operations show some migrants covered in red blankets arriving at the Arguineguin port in Gran Canaria as the rescue workers help people including children disembark. According to the emergency services, on Thursday morning, a third boat was spotted by the coast guard with some 54 people on board who were also taken to Lanzarote. Later in the day, another boat with 59 migrants, including three children, on board arrived in Arguineguin, reported Reuters citing TV footage. More than 30 feared dead after dinghy carrying 60 sinks This comes a day after Walking Borders and Alarm Phone, as per BBC, said that the dinghy was carrying around 60 people. According to Spanish authorities, emergency services found the bodies of a minor and a man and rescued 24 other people, however, it was not immediately clear how many people were on board. According to BBC, Helena Maleno Garzon from NGO Walking Borders, said that 39 people, including four women and a baby, had drowned. Meanwhile, Alarm Phone said 35 people were missing. As per reports, the boat sank about 160 kilometres off the coast of Gran Canaria on Wednesday. Spanish rescue service ship, the Guardamar Calliope, said that the boat was only an hour’s sail away but they did not aid the boat since Moroccan officials had reported dispatching a patrol boat that arrived on Wednesday morning. It was 10 hours after the dinghy was first spotted by a Spanish rescue plane, reported the news agency. The incident has since sparked criticism from migration-focused organisations. The Spanish Maritime Rescue received a distress call on Tuesday evening and promptly dispatched a plane from the Canary Islands to locate the boat. However, Moroccan authorities took charge of the rescue operation, and a merchant ship in the vicinity also responded to the alert, eventually assisting in rescuing the 24 survivors. The Canary Islands have witnessed a sharp increase in migrants this month. The Spanish archipelago’s migration lawyer Loueila Mint El Mamy said, “Numbers were falling so far this year, but there was an increase this month that surprised everybody. Only in June, close to 2,000 people have arrived,” as per Reuters. According to data from the United Nations International Organisation for Migration, at least 559 people, including children, died in 2022 on the route typically used by migrants from sub-Saharan Africa to reach the Canary Islands. (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.

Five boats with over 300 migrants rescued near Spain’s Canary Islands in a day

Gambia will make it mandatory for all pharmaceutical products from India to be inspected and tested prior to shipment from July 1, according to Gambian government documents reviewed by Reuters, the first known restrictions on national exports following the deaths of dozens of children linked to Indian-made cough syrups.

The new rule highlights how governments are reassessing their reliance on India's $42 billion pharmaceutical industry since the contamination came to light last year. India's industry supplies nearly half of the pharmaceuticals used in Africa. In April, India’s government said its officials had held meetings in Africa to ensure its drug exports did not suffer after at least 70 children died in Gambia after ingesting the cough syrup last year.

Gambia's latest move is to "address issues related to substandard and falsified (counterfeit) medicines entering the country", the executive director of its Medicines Control Agency (MCA), Markieu Janneh Kaira, wrote in a letter to India's drug controller general, Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi, dated June 15. The letter said that the MCA had appointed Quntrol Laboratories, an independent inspection and testing company for pharmaceuticals based in Mumbai, to issue a so-called Clean Report of Inspection and Analysis (CRIA) for all shipments from India.

"Quntrol shall conduct document verification, physical inspection of the consignment and sampling, for laboratory testing for each shipment", the letter said. "If conformity is established at all levels, Quntrol shall issue the mandatory CRIA document. If conformity is not established with regards to the quality of the product, the shipment will be quarantined or seized by the MCA and the necessary regulatory actions shall be taken."

Janneh Kaira told Reuters the rule "applies to India for now only". Since June 1, India has made tests mandatory for all cough syrups before they are exported.

Raghuvanshi did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside regular business hours.

With 2.5 million people, Gambia is one of Africa’s smallest and poorest countries. The World Bank is funding a testing laboratory in Gambia but it is not yet finished. The letter said Quntrol would send samples for testing to "one of the analytical laboratories approved by MCA". It did not say if the laboratory would be based in India or elsewhere. At least 70 children, most of them under the age of 5, died in Gambia last year due to acute kidney injury that doctors have linked to adulterated cough syrups from India. The World Health Organization said last year that the India-made cough syrups contained lethal toxins ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol – commonly used in car brake fluid and other products not fit for human consumption. These ingredients can be used by unscrupulous actors as a substitute for propylene glycol, which is a key base of syrupy medicines – because they can cost less than half the price – manufacturing experts say.

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Gambia will make it mandatory for all pharmaceutical products from India to be inspected and tested prior to shipment from July 1, according to Gambian government documents reviewed by Reuters, the first known restrictions on national exports following the deaths of dozens of children linked to Indian-made cough syrups.

Gambia will make it mandatory for all pharmaceutical products from India to be inspected and tested prior to shipment from July 1, according to Gambian government documents reviewed by Reuters, the first known restrictions on national exports following the deaths of dozens of children linked to Indian-made cough syrups. The new rule highlights how governments are reassessing their reliance on India's $42 billion pharmaceutical industry since the contamination came to light last year. India's industry supplies nearly half of the pharmaceuticals used in Africa. In April, India’s government said its officials had held meetings in Africa to ensure its drug exports did not suffer after at least 70 children died in Gambia after ingesting the cough syrup last year. Gambia's latest move is to "address issues related to substandard and falsified (counterfeit) medicines entering the country", the executive director of its Medicines Control Agency (MCA), Markieu Janneh Kaira, wrote in a letter to India's drug controller general, Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi, dated June 15. The letter said that the MCA had appointed Quntrol Laboratories, an independent inspection and testing company for pharmaceuticals based in Mumbai, to issue a so-called Clean Report of Inspection and Analysis (CRIA) for all shipments from India. "Quntrol shall conduct document verification, physical inspection of the consignment and sampling, for laboratory testing for each shipment", the letter said. "If conformity is established at all levels, Quntrol shall issue the mandatory CRIA document. If conformity is not established with regards to the quality of the product, the shipment will be quarantined or seized by the MCA and the necessary regulatory actions shall be taken." Janneh Kaira told Reuters the rule "applies to India for now only". Since June 1, India has made tests mandatory for all cough syrups before they are exported. Raghuvanshi did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside regular business hours. With 2.5 million people, Gambia is one of Africa’s smallest and poorest countries. The World Bank is funding a testing laboratory in Gambia but it is not yet finished. The letter said Quntrol would send samples for testing to "one of the analytical laboratories approved by MCA". It did not say if the laboratory would be based in India or elsewhere. At least 70 children, most of them under the age of 5, died in Gambia last year due to acute kidney injury that doctors have linked to adulterated cough syrups from India. The World Health Organization said last year that the India-made cough syrups contained lethal toxins ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol – commonly used in car brake fluid and other products not fit for human consumption. These ingredients can be used by unscrupulous actors as a substitute for propylene glycol, which is a key base of syrupy medicines – because they can cost less than half the price – manufacturing experts say. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Gambia tightens rules for Indian drugs after cough syrup deaths: Letter

Malians voted in a referendum on a new constitution that expands the president's role and military. The West African nation is ruled by military officers, who seized power in a 2020 coup, followed by another coup nine months later that removed the interim civilian government at the time. Back then, the prime minister and the president were to steer the country towards new elections.

Junta holds referendum

Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. 
 
This week, the African leaders spoke as the world listened. Led by President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa in Kyiv and St. Petersburg, the leaders from the world's second most populous continent pitched their peace plan to end the raging war between Russia and Ukraine now in its 17th month. It finally culminated into a verbally explosive blame-game between Kyiv and Moscow but the message has become clear: Africa's geo-economic credence gives it a rare heft unique to the continent.&nbsp;

Far away from Kyiv and St Petersburg, in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon the leaders of G20 nations to include African Union — a bloc of 55 nations of Africa&nbsp;— in the crucial diplomatic grouping.

Read this and more, in The Capitals this week.

<h2>New Delhi</h2>

<h2><img alt="India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d817402c-a640-4ddf-870c-f31e885a3d03" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-18T185217.852.png" /></h2>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India in New Delhi | Reuters

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon all G20 nations for the African Union be given full, permanent membership of the diplomatic group at its upcoming summit in India.

The move demonstrated India's commitment to strengthening Africa's representation and partnership in shaping global affairs.

<h2>Kyiv</h2>

<img alt="Ramaphosa Putin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5cbef54a-c953-4c40-a3d4-21976c6eacd1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-18T183210.231.png" />

Russia's President Vladimir Putin speaks with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa | Reuters photo for representation

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa presented a 10-point peace plan of the African Peace Mission during his visit to Kyiv this week.

As the main points, Ramaphosa emphasised that the war must be settled, and peace has to be achieved through diplomatic means as soon as possible. Ukraine's President Zelensky later responded, however, that talks with Moscow are possible only after a full withdrawal of Russian troops.

<h2>Cairo</h2>

<img alt="Egypt President Sisi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8037291e-f2ab-4545-8b16-2c668ca1fc31" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-18T183527.299.png" />

Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi | Reuters

From Egyptian capital Cairo, a formal application to be the part of five-member BRICS bloc of emerging economies became a major geo-economic moment of significance.&nbsp;

BRICS comprises of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

The development comes after Cairo joined the BRICS bank to help the crisis-hit Egypt reduce dependence on US dollars.

Egypt has become the latest entrant to shed the US currency in trade with several member states of the BRICS economic bloc.

<h2>Jerusalem</h2>

<img alt="Jerusalem Netanyahu" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="83c4ef31-3c6b-4825-99e7-c858898c5e8a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-18T184134.023.png" />

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends a hearing on corruption charges at Jerusalem's District Court, in Jerusalem | Reuters image for representation

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial entered a momentous stage this week when the former prime minister and current Opposition leader Yair Lapid testified against Netanyahu.

Lapid was called as a witness to speak about his time as finance minister in 2013-2014, when he was approached by both Netanyahu and billionaire Arnon Milchan about the idea of extending the duration of the tax break given to returning Israelis who have lived abroad, from 10 years to 20.

Netanyahu’s trial began three years ago, and according to the current schedule is slated to last for another five years, although various reports have said that the extensive witness list could be trimmed, potentially shortening the trial by a couple of years.

<h2>Pyongyang</h2>

<img alt="Putin Kim Jong-un" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="86b4a879-7b19-4c31-bad2-81c1f48a6e44" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-18T184440.901.png" />

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Vladivostok, Russia in this undated photo | Reuters image for representation

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un this week vowed to "hold hands" with Russian President Vladimir Putin and bolster strategic cooperation.&nbsp;

Kim made the pledge in a message to Putin marking Russia's national day, defending his decision to invade Ukraine and displaying "full support and solidarity." An isolated communist dictatorship, North Korea has sought to forge closer ties with the Kremlin and backed Moscow after it invaded Ukraine last year.

<h2>Kabul</h2>

<img alt="A Taliban guard posted at a checkpoint in Kabul" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e09bd45c-84a4-42a8-80bd-38066b5a31ab" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-18T184606.897.png" />

A Taliban guard posted at a checkpoint in Kabul | Reuters

A United Nations report this week further decreased the chances of Kabul's Taliban regime to have any form of international legitimacy.&nbsp;

The UN report vindicated the skepticism that was widely expressed when the US withdrawal from Afghanistan pushed Taliban back to power.&nbsp;

That Kabul will end up nurturing the sanctuaries of terrorism, either directly or indirectly.&nbsp;

It said that the connection between the Taliban, Al-Qaeda, and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) remains strong and mutually beneficial for all the parties involved with the Taliban as current rulers of Afghanistan acting as the nucleus of the entire set-up harbouring terror activities.

That's all for The Capitals this week. See you next weekend.

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Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. This week, the African leaders spoke as the world listened. Led by President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa in Kyiv and St.

Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. This week, the African leaders spoke as the world listened. Led by President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa in Kyiv and St. Petersburg, the leaders from the world's second most populous continent pitched their peace plan to end the raging war between Russia and Ukraine now in its 17th month. It finally culminated into a verbally explosive blame-game between Kyiv and Moscow but the message has become clear: Africa's geo-economic credence gives it a rare heft unique to the continent. Far away from Kyiv and St Petersburg, in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon the leaders of G20 nations to include African Union — a bloc of 55 nations of Africa — in the crucial diplomatic grouping. Read this and more, in The Capitals this week. New Delhi Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India in New Delhi | Reuters India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon all G20 nations for the African Union be given full, permanent membership of the diplomatic group at its upcoming summit in India. The move demonstrated India's commitment to strengthening Africa's representation and partnership in shaping global affairs. Kyiv Russia's President Vladimir Putin speaks with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa | Reuters photo for representation South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa presented a 10-point peace plan of the African Peace Mission during his visit to Kyiv this week. As the main points, Ramaphosa emphasised that the war must be settled, and peace has to be achieved through diplomatic means as soon as possible. Ukraine's President Zelensky later responded, however, that talks with Moscow are possible only after a full withdrawal of Russian troops. Cairo Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi | Reuters From Egyptian capital Cairo, a formal application to be the part of five-member BRICS bloc of emerging economies became a major geo-economic moment of significance. BRICS comprises of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The development comes after Cairo joined the BRICS bank to help the crisis-hit Egypt reduce dependence on US dollars. Egypt has become the latest entrant to shed the US currency in trade with several member states of the BRICS economic bloc. Jerusalem Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends a hearing on corruption charges at Jerusalem's District Court, in Jerusalem | Reuters image for representation Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's corruption trial entered a momentous stage this week when the former prime minister and current Opposition leader Yair Lapid testified against Netanyahu. Lapid was called as a witness to speak about his time as finance minister in 2013-2014, when he was approached by both Netanyahu and billionaire Arnon Milchan about the idea of extending the duration of the tax break given to returning Israelis who have lived abroad, from 10 years to 20. Netanyahu’s trial began three years ago, and according to the current schedule is slated to last for another five years, although various reports have said that the extensive witness list could be trimmed, potentially shortening the trial by a couple of years. Pyongyang North Korean leader Kim Jong Un shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Vladivostok, Russia in this undated photo | Reuters image for representation North Korean leader Kim Jong Un this week vowed to "hold hands" with Russian President Vladimir Putin and bolster strategic cooperation. Kim made the pledge in a message to Putin marking Russia's national day, defending his decision to invade Ukraine and displaying "full support and solidarity." An isolated communist dictatorship, North Korea has sought to forge closer ties with the Kremlin and backed Moscow after it invaded Ukraine last year. Kabul A Taliban guard posted at a checkpoint in Kabul | Reuters A United Nations report this week further decreased the chances of Kabul's Taliban regime to have any form of international legitimacy. The UN report vindicated the skepticism that was widely expressed when the US withdrawal from Afghanistan pushed Taliban back to power. That Kabul will end up nurturing the sanctuaries of terrorism, either directly or indirectly. It said that the connection between the Taliban, Al-Qaeda, and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) remains strong and mutually beneficial for all the parties involved with the Taliban as current rulers of Afghanistan acting as the nucleus of the entire set-up harbouring terror activities. That's all for The Capitals this week. See you next weekend. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

The Capitals: Pretoria, New Delhi lead Africa's ascent in global diplomacy

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a significant move to amplify Africa's representation on the global stage and shape the future of international affairs. According to sources, PM Modi has written to his G20 counterparts, proposing the African Union's full membership at the upcoming Delhi Summit of G20, as requested by the African Union.

<h2>Advocacy for a just, inclusive global architecture</h2>

Prime Minister Modi has taken a leading role in championing this proposal, demonstrating his strong support and advocacy for it, the sources said adding PM believes that granting full membership to the African Union in the G20 would be a step towards establishing a more just, fair, inclusive, and representative global architecture and governance.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stoltenberg-expected-to-be-asked-to-extend-another-term-as-nato-chief-amid-replacement-challenges-605543">Stoltenberg expected to be asked to extend another term as NATO Chief amid replacement challenges</a>

PM Modi particularly emphasises the importance of amplifying the voice of countries from the Global South, especially African nations, on international platforms.

<h2>Prioritising African countries in G20 agenda</h2>

As part of India's G20 Presidency, Prime Minister Modi has been dedicated to incorporating the priorities of African countries into the G20 agenda.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shehbaz-sharif-calls-on-nawaz-sharif-to-become-pakistan-pm-again-lead-election-campaign-605527">Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign</a>

India and Africa share deep historical and cultural ties, making them natural partners. During a recent address at the 18th CII-EXIM Bank Conclave on 'India-Africa Growth Partnership' in New Delhi, Union Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal highlighted the influence of Mahatma Gandhi's principles of truth and non-violence, which originated in South Africa, as well as the legacy carried forward by Nelson Mandela.

<h2>Promoting Africa's global rise</h2>

Minister Goyal stressed that India strongly believes in the global significance of Africa's rise and is actively working to achieve this ambition in an accelerated manner.&nbsp;

India aims to become the voice of the Global South, representing their interests at multilateral forums. The minister emphasised the need to create a powerful collective voice from the Global South to shape global geopolitics and ensure equitable and inclusive growth.

<h2>India's support for Africa</h2>

Goyal reiterated that India is a true friend and ally to Africa, providing support during times of need. India assisted African nations during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the provision of medicines, vaccines, and other essential equipment.&nbsp;India's actions reflect the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, considering the world as one family.

Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy

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Overall, Prime Minister Modi's proposal to grant the African Union full membership in the G20 demonstrates India's commitment to strengthening Africa's representation and partnership in shaping global affairs.

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a significant move to amplify Africa's representation on the global stage and shape the future of international affairs.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a significant move to amplify Africa's representation on the global stage and shape the future of international affairs. According to sources, PM Modi has written to his G20 counterparts, proposing the African Union's full membership at the upcoming Delhi Summit of G20, as requested by the African Union. Advocacy for a just, inclusive global architecture Prime Minister Modi has taken a leading role in championing this proposal, demonstrating his strong support and advocacy for it, the sources said adding PM believes that granting full membership to the African Union in the G20 would be a step towards establishing a more just, fair, inclusive, and representative global architecture and governance. Also Read | Stoltenberg expected to be asked to extend another term as NATO Chief amid replacement challenges PM Modi particularly emphasises the importance of amplifying the voice of countries from the Global South, especially African nations, on international platforms. Prioritising African countries in G20 agenda As part of India's G20 Presidency, Prime Minister Modi has been dedicated to incorporating the priorities of African countries into the G20 agenda. Also Read | Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign India and Africa share deep historical and cultural ties, making them natural partners. During a recent address at the 18th CII-EXIM Bank Conclave on 'India-Africa Growth Partnership' in New Delhi, Union Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal highlighted the influence of Mahatma Gandhi's principles of truth and non-violence, which originated in South Africa, as well as the legacy carried forward by Nelson Mandela. Promoting Africa's global rise Minister Goyal stressed that India strongly believes in the global significance of Africa's rise and is actively working to achieve this ambition in an accelerated manner. India aims to become the voice of the Global South, representing their interests at multilateral forums. The minister emphasised the need to create a powerful collective voice from the Global South to shape global geopolitics and ensure equitable and inclusive growth. India's support for Africa Goyal reiterated that India is a true friend and ally to Africa, providing support during times of need. India assisted African nations during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the provision of medicines, vaccines, and other essential equipment. India's actions reflect the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, considering the world as one family. Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy × Overall, Prime Minister Modi's proposal to grant the African Union full membership in the G20 demonstrates India's commitment to strengthening Africa's representation and partnership in shaping global affairs. 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. ×

Indian PM Modi proposes African Union’s full membership at New Delhi G20 Summit

Russian forces launched a series of drone and missile attacks on Kyiv shortly after a delegation of African leaders arrived in the Ukrainian capital to meet President Volodymyr Zelensky. The delegation of African leaders is seeking to mediate a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine.

Blasts heard in Kyiv as African peace mission visits Ukrainian capital

Explosions rock Kyiv as African delegation arrives in Ukraine to begin peace mission

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Saturday as they reviewed progress in their bilateral cooperation, anchored in historical and strong people-to-people ties. Modi also thanked him for the relocation of 12 cheetahs to India earlier this year, according to a statement.

Indian PM discusses cooperation in BRICS with South African Prez during telephone conversation

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