Horror at the Mtangatanga Forest Reserve after Malawi authorities discovered graves with remains of suspected illegal Ethiopian migrants. Erik Njoka tells you the shocking tale from Mzimba.

World of Africa: Horror in Malawi's forest reserve

If you are a fan of rice and there isn't enough in your country then we suggest you visit Senegal, it's in plenty there. The West African nation's rice production has sored in recent years as it seeks to reduce dependence on imports.

Africa: Rice production boom in Senegal; dependence on home-grown rice now in focus

Eleven people lost their lives in school for the blind in Uganda in early hours of Tuesday (October 25). Those dead include mostly children. The fire tore through a dormitory in which pupils were sleeping.

"The cause of the fire is currently unknown but so far 11 deaths as a result of the fire have been confirmed while six are in critical conditions and admitted (to hospital)," the Uganda Police Force said on Twitter.

The tragedy occurred at 1 am (2200 GMT Monday) at the Salama School for the Blind in the Mukono district, east of the capital Kampala. The police have&nbsp;launched an investigation.

"Most of the dead are children at the school and our sympathies go to the parents," Internal Affairs Minister General Kahinda Otafiire told AFP.&nbsp; 
He said the school has been cordoned off as a "crime scene" and vowed that there would be a full investigation.

"As government we shall go to the root cause of the fire and if there are any culprits they will be apprehended and the law will take its course," he added.

Images broadcast on Ugandan television showed a charred but still largely intact building where the fire broke out, its window frames and door blackened and the corrugated roof damaged. &nbsp;

Forensic teams were seen in white protective gear at the school, while grieving parents gathered nearby.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><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></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Eleven people lost their lives in school for the blind in Uganda in early hours of Tuesday (October 25). Those dead include mostly children. The fire tore through a dormitory in which pupils were sleeping.

Eleven people lost their lives in school for the blind in Uganda in early hours of Tuesday (October 25). Those dead include mostly children. The fire tore through a dormitory in which pupils were sleeping. "The cause of the fire is currently unknown but so far 11 deaths as a result of the fire have been confirmed while six are in critical conditions and admitted (to hospital)," the Uganda Police Force said on Twitter. The tragedy occurred at 1 am (2200 GMT Monday) at the Salama School for the Blind in the Mukono district, east of the capital Kampala. The police have launched an investigation. "Most of the dead are children at the school and our sympathies go to the parents," Internal Affairs Minister General Kahinda Otafiire told AFP. He said the school has been cordoned off as a "crime scene" and vowed that there would be a full investigation. "As government we shall go to the root cause of the fire and if there are any culprits they will be apprehended and the law will take its course," he added. Images broadcast on Ugandan television showed a charred but still largely intact building where the fire broke out, its window frames and door blackened and the corrugated roof damaged. Forensic teams were seen in white protective gear at the school, while grieving parents gathered nearby. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Uganda: 11, including children, die in fire at school for blind

A close aide of Kenyan President William Ruto has claimed that the two missing Indians in Kenya have been killed by the disbanded DCI unit, a media report said on Friday.

Zulfiqar Ahmad Khan and his friend Mohamed Zaid Sami Kidwai, who were part of the Kenya Kwanza digital campaign team, went missing along with taxi driver Nicodemus Mwania from Mombasa Road in July.

The two contributed immensely to the success of Ruto's campaign, said Itumbi, who was at the heart of Ruto's presidential campaigns, The Nation newspaper reported.

"Sometimes when our team was overwhelmed and we needed graphics, I sent (material) their way and they paused whatever they were doing and did me the favour," he said in a Facebook post.

"They visited Mombasa, Homa Bay, (Masai) Mara, nyama choma joints and loved our dance joints too. They invited me to India; I told them I would visit after (the) elections. Their eyes were primarily on enjoying Kenya as much as they could. When they sat down, they produced very appealing content," he added.

The revelation comes against a backdrop of the disbandment of the Special Service Unit (SSU), a group that has been accused of extrajudicial killings. The team is suspected to be behind the disappearance of the two Indians.

President Ruto ordered the disbandment of SSU last Saturday after a probe into the disappearance of the two Indians was linked to the unit, the report said.

A total of 21 detectives who served under the unit have been summoned to the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) headquarters in Nairobi on Friday, it added.

And now Itumbi claims that the two Indians and their driver could be dead. He did not offer any proof, only promising a part two of his expose.

"As usual, they (Zaid and Khan) always did something extra. A meme here, a video there, a box quote and much more?&nbsp;We even had a Telegram group that rarely went silent, with endless ideas,"&nbsp;he said.

Just two days before they returned to India, Itumbi recalled, he learnt that the duo had lost a phone during a night out.

"They could not be reached. Just the other day, I finally got to know their painful last moments in the hands of people whose only mission was to ensure Dr Ruto does not become President even if it means killing people," he said.

India has been in touch with the Kenyan authorities on the matter, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in New Delhi last week.

"As far as we understand, there were two Indian nationals, Zulfiqar Ahmad Khan and Zaid Sami Kidwai, and they have been missing in Kenya since mid-July. A police complaint was filed there soon after that," MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.

"Subsequently, a habeas corpus petition was filed in the Kenyan court. We understand that the issue is now sub-judice in the high court of Kenya and a number of hearings have taken place," Bagchi added.

He said the Indian High Commission in Kenya has been in continuous touch with the Kenyan authorities.

"We are also, I think, in touch with some family members? We are keeping a close eye on the issue? I am afraid they're still missing," Bagchi said.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<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>

A close aide of Kenyan President William Ruto has claimed that the two missing Indians in Kenya have been killed by the disbanded DCI unit, a media report said on Friday.

A close aide of Kenyan President William Ruto has claimed that the two missing Indians in Kenya have been killed by the disbanded DCI unit, a media report said on Friday. Zulfiqar Ahmad Khan and his friend Mohamed Zaid Sami Kidwai, who were part of the Kenya Kwanza digital campaign team, went missing along with taxi driver Nicodemus Mwania from Mombasa Road in July. The two contributed immensely to the success of Ruto's campaign, said Itumbi, who was at the heart of Ruto's presidential campaigns, The Nation newspaper reported. "Sometimes when our team was overwhelmed and we needed graphics, I sent (material) their way and they paused whatever they were doing and did me the favour," he said in a Facebook post. "They visited Mombasa, Homa Bay, (Masai) Mara, nyama choma joints and loved our dance joints too. They invited me to India; I told them I would visit after (the) elections. Their eyes were primarily on enjoying Kenya as much as they could. When they sat down, they produced very appealing content," he added. The revelation comes against a backdrop of the disbandment of the Special Service Unit (SSU), a group that has been accused of extrajudicial killings. The team is suspected to be behind the disappearance of the two Indians. President Ruto ordered the disbandment of SSU last Saturday after a probe into the disappearance of the two Indians was linked to the unit, the report said. A total of 21 detectives who served under the unit have been summoned to the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) headquarters in Nairobi on Friday, it added. And now Itumbi claims that the two Indians and their driver could be dead. He did not offer any proof, only promising a part two of his expose. "As usual, they (Zaid and Khan) always did something extra. A meme here, a video there, a box quote and much more? We even had a Telegram group that rarely went silent, with endless ideas," he said. Just two days before they returned to India, Itumbi recalled, he learnt that the duo had lost a phone during a night out. "They could not be reached. Just the other day, I finally got to know their painful last moments in the hands of people whose only mission was to ensure Dr Ruto does not become President even if it means killing people," he said. India has been in touch with the Kenyan authorities on the matter, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in New Delhi last week. "As far as we understand, there were two Indian nationals, Zulfiqar Ahmad Khan and Zaid Sami Kidwai, and they have been missing in Kenya since mid-July. A police complaint was filed there soon after that," MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said. "Subsequently, a habeas corpus petition was filed in the Kenyan court. We understand that the issue is now sub-judice in the high court of Kenya and a number of hearings have taken place," Bagchi added. He said the Indian High Commission in Kenya has been in continuous touch with the Kenyan authorities. "We are also, I think, in touch with some family members? We are keeping a close eye on the issue? I am afraid they're still missing," Bagchi said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Missing Indians in Kenya killed by disbanded DCI unit, claims Kenyan President's aide

Zimbabwe has approved the use of long-acting injectable cabotegravir (CAB-LA) as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention, recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) earlier this year making it the first African nation and third in the world to do so. Regulators in&nbsp; the United States and Australia have already backed the use of the drug.

“CAB-LA may be offered to people at substantial risk of HIV acquisition as part of comprehensive HIV prevention approaches,”&nbsp;the WHO had previously indicated. In July, the global health agency recommended the drug saying that it is highly effective at reducing the transmission risk among people at most risk of contracting HIV.&nbsp;

The recommendation was reportedly made in light of observing a surge of HIV infections globally.&nbsp;“HIV prevention efforts have stalled, with 1.5 million new HIV infections in 2021…the same as in 2020. There were 4000 new infections every day in 2021, with key populations and their sexual partners accounting for 70% of HIV infections globally.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-685-dead-in-zimbabwe-due-to-measles-outbreak-anti-vaxxers-remain-a-roadblock-512693">700 children dead in Zimbabwe due to measles outbreak, anti-vaxxers remain a roadblock</a>

The key populations WHO was referring to reportedly include sex workers, men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, people in prisons, and transgender people. According to the local media, in most African nations, sex workers and people from the LGBTQIA+ community are often overlooked in the context of access to healthcare because of “laws and societal segregation”.&nbsp;

According to WHO, the intramuscular injectable long-acting form of PrEP has to be administered with the first two injections four weeks apart, followed thereafter by an injection every eight weeks. CAB-LA injections every two months are safe and highly effective in reducing the risk of contracting HIV, said the report.&nbsp;

In a statement, the WHO has also welcomed this decision and called it a “crucial step” for the African nation, adding that it&nbsp;would support them “to design and develop programmes so that CAB-LA can be implemented, safely and effectively, for greatest impact”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-have-discovered-africas-oldest-dinosaur-named-mbiresaurus-raathi-in-zimbabwe-512201">Scientists have discovered Africa's oldest dinosaur named Mbiresaurus raathi in Zimbabwe</a>

Zimbabwe has seen AIDS-related deaths fall from at least 130,000 in 2002 to 20,000 in 2021, said media reports. Last year, the country also launched the 90-90-90 initiative which aims to end AIDS&nbsp;by 2030 it refers to 90% of people living with HIV knowing their status, 90% getting antiretroviral treatment and 90% having the virus suppressed.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<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>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Zimbabwe has approved the use of long-acting injectable cabotegravir (CAB-LA) as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention, recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) earlier this year making it the first African nation and third in the world to do so.

Zimbabwe has approved the use of long-acting injectable cabotegravir (CAB-LA) as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention, recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) earlier this year making it the first African nation and third in the world to do so. Regulators in the United States and Australia have already backed the use of the drug. “CAB-LA may be offered to people at substantial risk of HIV acquisition as part of comprehensive HIV prevention approaches,” the WHO had previously indicated. In July, the global health agency recommended the drug saying that it is highly effective at reducing the transmission risk among people at most risk of contracting HIV. The recommendation was reportedly made in light of observing a surge of HIV infections globally. “HIV prevention efforts have stalled, with 1.5 million new HIV infections in 2021…the same as in 2020. There were 4000 new infections every day in 2021, with key populations and their sexual partners accounting for 70% of HIV infections globally.” ALSO READ: 700 children dead in Zimbabwe due to measles outbreak, anti-vaxxers remain a roadblock The key populations WHO was referring to reportedly include sex workers, men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, people in prisons, and transgender people. According to the local media, in most African nations, sex workers and people from the LGBTQIA+ community are often overlooked in the context of access to healthcare because of “laws and societal segregation”. According to WHO, the intramuscular injectable long-acting form of PrEP has to be administered with the first two injections four weeks apart, followed thereafter by an injection every eight weeks. CAB-LA injections every two months are safe and highly effective in reducing the risk of contracting HIV, said the report. In a statement, the WHO has also welcomed this decision and called it a “crucial step” for the African nation, adding that it would support them “to design and develop programmes so that CAB-LA can be implemented, safely and effectively, for greatest impact”. ALSO READ: Scientists have discovered Africa's oldest dinosaur named Mbiresaurus raathi in Zimbabwe Zimbabwe has seen AIDS-related deaths fall from at least 130,000 in 2002 to 20,000 in 2021, said media reports. Last year, the country also launched the 90-90-90 initiative which aims to end AIDS by 2030 it refers to 90% of people living with HIV knowing their status, 90% getting antiretroviral treatment and 90% having the virus suppressed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Zimbabwe becomes first country in Africa to approve HIV prevention drug

Floods triggered by heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc in Nigeria where nearly 600 people have been killed and more than a million have been displaced as the West African nation witnesses its worst flooding in 12 years.

WION Climate Tracker: Nearly 600 killed in Nigeria floods, rescue operations underway

Have you ever imagined that a small African Kingdom like Lesotho would be having a centuries-old tradition of horse racing? Well believe it as the country is preparing the animals for the occasion. Watch the video to know more details about it.

Africa's Lesotho's ponies and gambling: A century-old tradition

Nigerians have been warned for serious food crisis ahead following menace of banditry and flooding currently ravaging the country. The prices of food items are skyrocketing in various supermarkets across the West African nation and the federal government is asked to act and save the situation.

Nigeria: Food crisis expected to worsen, price of food items skyrocket

Are we in another age of mass extinction? A new study says nearly 70% of wildlife population has been wiped out in the last 50 years. Latin America & Africa witnessed the steepest decline. What explains this? How do we stop it?

Gravitas: Are we in another age of Mass extinction?

25-Year-Old Togolese self-taught mechanic Sourou-Edjareyo Malazouwe has created his own car from recycled materials. He's the pride of Togo.

World of Africa: Self taught mechanic from Togo builds recycled car

The Cameroon Ministry Of Health has imposed a ban on skin-lighting products following a spate of high profile cases of consumers developing skin cancers. Here's a report on why this age-old desire by men and women to make their skin fairer, is proving to be detrimental.

World of Africa: Cameroon's 'skin bleaching' craze

62 Years Ago, Nigeria attained its independence. Many Nigerians feel like there is less to celebrate. The West African nation is heading to the polls in 2023, what lies ahead for the country and will the next Government be able to wither the challenges?

World of Africa | Nigeria at 62: What lies ahead?

The African National Congress, South Africa's ruling party is scheduled to Host Its 54th National Conference next December. Political factions, corruption allegations and diminishing trust plague the ANC as female candidates jostle for leadership roles.

World of Africa | South Africa: ANC's moment of reckoning

The port city in northern Mozambique, liberated from insurgency a year ago, is slowly coming back to life. Mocimboa, in the poor and predominantly Muslim province of Cabodelgado, is slowly rebuilding.

World of Africa | Mozambique: The return to 'Mocimboa'

Indian Navy Frigate INS Tarkash completed her 41-day long anti-piracy deployment in the Gulf of Guinea (GoG). This marks the first-ever deployment in the West African region by an Indian Navy warship.

Indian Navy Frigate INS Tarkash completed her 41-day long anti-piracy deployment in the Gulf of Guinea (GoG). This marks the first-ever deployment in the West African region by an Indian Navy warship. Situated in the eastern tropical Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Guinea region witnesses a significant amount of maritime crime and is an important shipping zone that has large volume of oil and gas transiting the area. The deployment of INA Tarkash included port calls at Dakar in Senegal, Lome in Togo, Lagos in Nigeria and Port Gentil in Gabon. Apart from anti-piracy patrol and joint patrols with the regional navies, the deployment was utilised for capacity-building activities like training in damage control, firefighting, diving, medical aspects and casualty evacuation. In a first for any #Indian warship, frigate INS Tarkash(F50) completed a 41-day anti-piracy deployment in the #gulf of #Guinea ,West #Africa ..this region sees high amount of #maritime crime, as huge volume of oil& gas transits Tarkash covered 4315 nautical miles #video here👇 pic.twitter.com/8S80r8YuLv — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) October 4, 2022 × During the deployment that saw the Russian-origin Indian Navy ship covering 4315 nautical miles, a high state of combat readiness was maintained. As part of the combat readiness, onboard weapons systems such as the main 100mm naval gun and the Ak-630 (6x30mm) close-in weapon system were fired. Personnel on board the ship also fired the mounted machine guns and sniper rifles among other weapons. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

INS Tarkash is India's first-ever warship to patrol Gulf of Guinea; 41-day mission completed

Environment ministers from about 50 countries will gather in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Monday for a "pre-COP27" climate summit, with rich nations likely to come under pressure to raise spending to combat climate change.

Environment ministers from about 50 countries will gather in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Monday for a "pre-COP27" climate summit, with rich nations likely to come under pressure to raise spending to combat climate change. The talks in the DRC's capital, Kinshasa, are informal but meant to allow various countries and green groups to take stock of political positions ahead of COP27 - the United Nations climate gathering of world leaders in Egypt next month. An opening ceremony will take place in the Congolese parliament building in Kinshasa, followed by discussions on mitigating climate change, and providing funding for countries already damaged by global heating and severe weather events. Delegates from about 50 countries are expected to attend the talks, including United States climate envoy John Kerry. "The emphasis will certainly be on support from industrialised countries to countries in the south," a Western diplomat recently told AFP. The last UN climate summit, COP26 in Glasgow in November 2021, reaffirmed the goal, agreed in Paris in 2015 - of limiting the rise in the Earth's average temperature to well below 2.0 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and pursuing efforts to limit it to 1.5 C. That goal may already be beyond reach as the Earth's temperature is already 1.2 C higher than before the Industrial Revolution of the 19th century. Poorer countries had pushed at Glasgow for a financial mechanism to address losses and damage caused by climate change. But wealthier nations, the largest polluters, rejected the call and the participants agreed instead to start a "dialogue" on financial compensation for damages. Climate justice Egypt, which is hosting COP27, has made implementing the pledge to curb global heating the priority of the November summit. Poorer countries are again likely to remind their richer counterparts of the need to increase financial support. The latter have so far failed to deliver on their promise to provide $100 billion a year to help developing countries limit climate change. Demands for climate justice were front and centre of a protest in Kinshasa last month, where young Congolese activists chanted slogans and demanded that world leaders take swift action rather than repeat old promises. The Congolese government is also expected to drive home the message that it requires funding to protect its vast rainforests, which act as a carbon sink. Around 30 billion tonnes of carbon are stored across the Congo Basin, researchers estimated in a study for Nature in 2016. The figure is roughly equivalent to three years of global emissions. However, the central African nation in July launched an auction for 30 oil and gas blocs, ignoring warnings from environmentalists that exploiting them could harm ecosystems and release vast amounts of heat-trapping gases. One of the poorest countries in the world, the DRC argues that drilling for oil and gas could help diversify its economy and benefit the Congolese people. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

African climate summit starts in Congo ahead of COP27

Nigeria is battling its worst floods in a decade, where more than 300 people are killed till now, houses are washed away and farmlands have been destroyed. The authorities say that the situation is beyond control. Farmers are worried as their fields are submerged under water.

WION Climate Tracker: Nigeria battles worst floods in decades; farmers incur heavy losses

The Accra leg of global citizen's annual music festival, held simultaneously with another concert in New York city, wasn't your average show. African global citizen patrons have urged the world to consider Africa's giving power, in the future.

World of Africa: Mega global citizens festival

Comic Con returned to Africa after a two-year gap due to Covid. It is the continent's largest pop culture fantasy and gaming festival that will take place for over two days in Johannesburg.

Comic Con returns to Africa after two-year hiatus due to Covid

Luke Andalis, a South African, changes into the muscular Aratak in a temporary dressing area covered in black fabric as he gets ready to perform at Comic-Con Africa, the largest pop culture, fantasy, and gaming convention on the continent.&nbsp;

The 32-year-old cosplayer Andalis giggles to pals as he pulls a stiff green pleather coat over his head and shoulders, saying, "There's so much fur in my mouth."&nbsp;

He decided to dress up as Aratak, the middle-aged Banuk tribe chieftain from the well-known video game Horizon Zero Dawn: The Frozen Wild, this year.

The return of Comic-Con Africa has been eagerly awaited by cosplayers and fans following a two-year Covid sabbatical.&nbsp;

Thousands of people gathered at a sizable expo centre next to the FNB Stadium, which served as the site of the FIFA 2010 World Cup final, on Saturday dressed as superheroes, clowns, and aliens in bright masks, sci-fi outfits, and bizarre wigs.&nbsp;

Visitors to the Stranger Things escape rooms, temporary tattoo parlours, and comic refuge were greeted by loud music.

Celebrities from all walks of life will be attending this year's events, including Jamie Campbell Bower, an award-winning actor from Stranger Things and the Twilight series, among others.&nbsp;

South of the commercial capital Johannesburg, at the national leisure centre, is where Africa's third comic convention is taking place. In 2018, the event made its debut in Africa.&nbsp;

In a country where the cosplay industry is not yet as significant as it is in more developed nations, the four-day pop culture festival has received plaudits for giving cosplayers a platform.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Luke Andalis, a South African, changes into the muscular Aratak in a temporary dressing area covered in black fabric as he gets ready to perform at Comic-Con Africa, the largest pop culture, fantasy, and gaming convention on the continent.

Luke Andalis, a South African, changes into the muscular Aratak in a temporary dressing area covered in black fabric as he gets ready to perform at Comic-Con Africa, the largest pop culture, fantasy, and gaming convention on the continent. The 32-year-old cosplayer Andalis giggles to pals as he pulls a stiff green pleather coat over his head and shoulders, saying, "There's so much fur in my mouth." He decided to dress up as Aratak, the middle-aged Banuk tribe chieftain from the well-known video game Horizon Zero Dawn: The Frozen Wild, this year. The return of Comic-Con Africa has been eagerly awaited by cosplayers and fans following a two-year Covid sabbatical. Thousands of people gathered at a sizable expo centre next to the FNB Stadium, which served as the site of the FIFA 2010 World Cup final, on Saturday dressed as superheroes, clowns, and aliens in bright masks, sci-fi outfits, and bizarre wigs. Visitors to the Stranger Things escape rooms, temporary tattoo parlours, and comic refuge were greeted by loud music. Celebrities from all walks of life will be attending this year's events, including Jamie Campbell Bower, an award-winning actor from Stranger Things and the Twilight series, among others. South of the commercial capital Johannesburg, at the national leisure centre, is where Africa's third comic convention is taking place. In 2018, the event made its debut in Africa. In a country where the cosplay industry is not yet as significant as it is in more developed nations, the four-day pop culture festival has received plaudits for giving cosplayers a platform. (with inputs from agencies)

Africa's Comic-Con festival resumes after a two-year Covid sabbatical

A new study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) has shown that there are at least 20 quadrillion ants on Earth.

Highlighting even that staggering figure likely underestimates the total population of the insects, the study states that it is important for measuring the consequences of changes to their habitat.

During the research, scientists analysed 465 studies that measured the number of ants locally in the field.

Some major regions including central Africa and Asia had little or no data even though surveys have been carried out on all continents.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-want-to-meet-cute-little-smugglers-these-ants-will-leave-you-in-awe-493869">Watch: Want to meet cute little gold smugglers? These ants will leave you in awe</a>

"It is of utmost importance that we fill these remaining gaps to achieve a comprehensive picture of insect diversity," according to the study.

Therefore, in comparison to the estimates, "the true abundance of ants globally is likely to be considerably higher" as per the study.

Nearly two-thirds of more than 15,700 named species and subspecies of ants that are found all over the planet, are yet to be described.

Planning to study the environmental factors influencing the population density of the tiny creatures, scientists believe that the total global biomass of ants is thought to be 12 megatons of dry carbon.

Hosting organisms and serving as either predators or prey, ants are an essential part of ecosystems around the world.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><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></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

A new study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) has shown that there are at least 20 quadrillion ants on Earth. Highlighting even that staggering figure likely underestimates the total population of the insects, the study states that it is important for measuring the consequences of changes to their habitat.

A new study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) has shown that there are at least 20 quadrillion ants on Earth. Highlighting even that staggering figure likely underestimates the total population of the insects, the study states that it is important for measuring the consequences of changes to their habitat. During the research, scientists analysed 465 studies that measured the number of ants locally in the field. Some major regions including central Africa and Asia had little or no data even though surveys have been carried out on all continents. Watch: Want to meet cute little gold smugglers? These ants will leave you in awe "It is of utmost importance that we fill these remaining gaps to achieve a comprehensive picture of insect diversity," according to the study. Therefore, in comparison to the estimates, "the true abundance of ants globally is likely to be considerably higher" as per the study. Nearly two-thirds of more than 15,700 named species and subspecies of ants that are found all over the planet, are yet to be described. Planning to study the environmental factors influencing the population density of the tiny creatures, scientists believe that the total global biomass of ants is thought to be 12 megatons of dry carbon. Hosting organisms and serving as either predators or prey, ants are an essential part of ecosystems around the world. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

How many ants are there on Earth? Scientists have an estimate

An outbreak of Ebola virus disease has been declared in Uganda, the country's health ministry and the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Tuesday.

The ministry said on Twitter that there had been a confirmed Ebola case in the central Mubende district, a 24-year-old man who showed symptoms and later died.

The WHO's Africa office said in a statement that the case was of the relatively rare Sudan strain after Ugandan health authorities investigated six suspicious deaths in the district this month.

"There are currently eight suspected cases who are receiving care in a health facility," WHO Africa said, adding it was helping Uganda's health authorities with their investigation and deploying staff to the affected area.

Ebola is believed to be carried by fruit bats from the Pteropodidae species, but once an Ebola epidemic has started, the transmission of the virus between humans occurs via body fluid and needles contaminated by infected secretions.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<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>

&nbsp;

An outbreak of Ebola virus disease has been declared in Uganda, the country's health ministry and the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Tuesday. The ministry said on Twitter that there had been a confirmed Ebola case in the central Mubende district, a 24-year-old man who showed symptoms and later died.

An outbreak of Ebola virus disease has been declared in Uganda, the country's health ministry and the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Tuesday. The ministry said on Twitter that there had been a confirmed Ebola case in the central Mubende district, a 24-year-old man who showed symptoms and later died. The WHO's Africa office said in a statement that the case was of the relatively rare Sudan strain after Ugandan health authorities investigated six suspicious deaths in the district this month. "There are currently eight suspected cases who are receiving care in a health facility," WHO Africa said, adding it was helping Uganda's health authorities with their investigation and deploying staff to the affected area. Ebola is believed to be carried by fruit bats from the Pteropodidae species, but once an Ebola epidemic has started, the transmission of the virus between humans occurs via body fluid and needles contaminated by infected secretions. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ebola outbreak declared in Uganda by WHO

In recent years Africa's Lake Tanganyika, the world's second deepest freshwater lake has swallowed entire homes and roads, leaving scores of people homeless. Experts say climate change, atmospheric disturbances and issues related to geology are to be blamed, our next report brings you more.

WION Climate Tracker: Africa's Lake Tanganyika swallows homes, roads

The Horn of Africa region is facing its worst drought in 40 years. Experts are predicting a fifth failed rainy season in two years. Around 66 million people are facing a food crisis. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Horn of Africa faces worst drought in 40 years

Africa-focused e-commerce firm, Jumia technologies partners with San Francisco-based startup Zipline to provide a variety of home deliveries to African households

World of Africa | Drone delivery picks up in Africa

A swimming cap designed specifically for athletes with Afro hair has been approved for swimming competitions – at all levels – after the product was barred from being worn at the Olympics last year. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

WION Fineprint | Swimming cap for Afro hair finally approved after being barred

In the next two weeks, India will be home to Cheetahs, which went extinct nearly seven decades ago.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Tuesday that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be arriving at Kuno National Park in the state to welcome the big cats on September 17, which also happens to be the prime minister's birthday.

The large carnivores went extinct in the country in 1952.

India is getting Cheetahs from Namibia and South Africa.&nbsp;

As per officials, an MoU between India and Namibia has already been signed and the one with SA is expected to be signed soon.

Ahead of the Madhya Pradesh cabinet meeting at the secretariat in its capital city Bhopal, Chouhan told his ministers that Modi will be arriving at Kuno National Park on September 17 to launch the ambitious Cheetah introduction project.&nbsp;

WION confirms that all arrangements for the relocation of another set of Cheetahs from South Africa are already in place but the agreement between India and SA is in its final stages pending signatures from the authorities. &nbsp;

As per India's Environment Ministry, Cheetahs were earlier supposed to arrive in India in August.&nbsp;

YV Jhala, the man representing India as in-charge of the relocation and who is overseeing the developments in Namibia presently, had earlier told WION that Cheetahs will be airlifted from Namibia and South Africa and brought to either Jaipur or Gwalior airports, in Indian states of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh respectively, considering their proximity to their new home in Kuno National Park. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Jhala, who is the Dean of Wildlife Institute of India (WII), had said the Cheetahs will be kept awake under mild tranquilization for the duration of the journey.&nbsp;

As per officials, Cheetahs will be brought in a chartered plane with veterinarians from South Africa and Namibia onboard and the animals will be transferred from Jaipur/Gwalior airports to Kuno via choppers. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sustainable-batteries-made-from-lobster-shells-using-unique-chemical-derived-from-crabs-513424">Sustainable batteries made from lobster and crab shells might be the future</a>

Back up ambulances have also been arranged in case they need to be transported by road. The total travel time is expected to be around 12 hours. &nbsp;

According to NTCA officials, if the Cheetahs show any sign of agitation or abnormal behaviour, a sedative can be given to control them. &nbsp;

Tranquilizers or sedatives are injected into animals to control their anxiety, stress and agitation. It makes them drowsy and calm and sometimes even in a state of sleep depending on the dosage.

Cheetahs will undergo 30 days of quarantine at Kuno national park after undergoing the same in their host countries. &nbsp;&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

<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=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

In the next two weeks, India will be home to Cheetahs, which went extinct nearly seven decades ago. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Tuesday that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be arriving at Kuno National Park in the state to welcome the big cats on September 17, which also happens to be the prime minister's birthday.

In the next two weeks, India will be home to Cheetahs, which went extinct nearly seven decades ago. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Tuesday that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be arriving at Kuno National Park in the state to welcome the big cats on September 17, which also happens to be the prime minister's birthday. The large carnivores went extinct in the country in 1952. India is getting Cheetahs from Namibia and South Africa. As per officials, an MoU between India and Namibia has already been signed and the one with SA is expected to be signed soon. Ahead of the Madhya Pradesh cabinet meeting at the secretariat in its capital city Bhopal, Chouhan told his ministers that Modi will be arriving at Kuno National Park on September 17 to launch the ambitious Cheetah introduction project. WION confirms that all arrangements for the relocation of another set of Cheetahs from South Africa are already in place but the agreement between India and SA is in its final stages pending signatures from the authorities. As per India's Environment Ministry, Cheetahs were earlier supposed to arrive in India in August. YV Jhala, the man representing India as in-charge of the relocation and who is overseeing the developments in Namibia presently, had earlier told WION that Cheetahs will be airlifted from Namibia and South Africa and brought to either Jaipur or Gwalior airports, in Indian states of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh respectively, considering their proximity to their new home in Kuno National Park. Jhala, who is the Dean of Wildlife Institute of India (WII), had said the Cheetahs will be kept awake under mild tranquilization for the duration of the journey. As per officials, Cheetahs will be brought in a chartered plane with veterinarians from South Africa and Namibia onboard and the animals will be transferred from Jaipur/Gwalior airports to Kuno via choppers. Also Read: Sustainable batteries made from lobster and crab shells might be the future Back up ambulances have also been arranged in case they need to be transported by road. The total travel time is expected to be around 12 hours. According to NTCA officials, if the Cheetahs show any sign of agitation or abnormal behaviour, a sedative can be given to control them. Tranquilizers or sedatives are injected into animals to control their anxiety, stress and agitation. It makes them drowsy and calm and sometimes even in a state of sleep depending on the dosage. Cheetahs will undergo 30 days of quarantine at Kuno national park after undergoing the same in their host countries.

Cheetahs to arrive in India on 17 Sep: MP Chief Minister

Tunisian farmers claim they are in a losing struggle with illness and drought in an oasis known as the hottest area in Africa, which is causing many of them to abandon estates where they grow some of the best dates in the world.

In the past, the date palm orchards at Kebili oasis formed lush, rich islands in a desolate landscape. However, many of the trees are currently dying, and their naked, dry, and fruitless trunks extend into the sky.

According to farmers and environmental groups, a decade-long drought in southern Tunisia has made it increasingly difficult to irrigate the palm trees as costs have increased and power outages have increased.

"We haven't seen rain since 2011. Underground water is boiling hot. When the electricity is cut off, the farmers can't use the water for irrigation,&nbsp;and&nbsp;the waterwheels are broken," said farmer Mouhamed Bouaziz. "Everything came at the same time."

He serves as treasurer of the neighbourhood water association, which aids date growers in gaining access to underground aquifer irrigation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/farming-and-eating-edible-insects-british-organisations-idea-to-help-a-hungry-africa-513177">'Farming and eating edible insects', British organisations' idea to help a hungry Africa</a>

He claimed that the government was disregarding the plight of the farmers as it struggled to pay state salaries and finance wheat imports.

Kebili is one of a number of oases on the outskirts of the Sahara desert where a large portion of the dates that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-zulu-bare-breasted-maiden-dance-revived-first-time-since-covid-512719">Tunisia</a> sends to dozens of nations, primarily in Europe, are grown.

The greatest temperature ever recorded in Africa, over 55 degrees Celsius,&nbsp;was reported in Kebili in the 1930s, thus farmers are accustomed to tremendous heat.

However, they claim that the effects of climate change, such as the reduced rainfall and a date mite infestation attributed to the dry weather, are making life even more difficult.

"If we continue like this with&nbsp;drought&nbsp;and&nbsp;draining the water layer, in 20 or 30 years we will not find&nbsp;dates in Kebili," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chileans-reject-new-proposed-constitution-in-referendum-512944">environmental</a> activist Moez Hamed, peeling the stumps of desiccated palm fronds from a tree.

Other trees show signs of the infestation, with bunches of&nbsp;dates wrapped in the webbing spun by mites as they feed.

"It is a new pest that we have not seen before,&nbsp;and&nbsp;its cause is&nbsp;drought," Bouaziz said.

As a result of their inability to continue using the irrigation his group offers, more than a third of farmers, according to Bouaziz, have stopped using it and all have shown interest in leaving the oases.

They were prepared to take the risky trip over the Mediterranean to seek a new life in Europe, just like many others who were hopeless about the future in their own nation.

"Farmers, especially the youth who will inherit these oases&nbsp;and&nbsp;preserve them, have migrated by sea," Bouaziz said. "Those who survive survive,&nbsp;and&nbsp;those who die return in a large box."

(With inputs from agencies)

Also WATCH |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker | UN: Somalia is on brink of famine; risk of starvation rises

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-un-somalia-is-on-brink-of-famine-risk-of-starvation-rises-513202/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Tunisian farmers claim they are in a losing struggle with illness and drought in an oasis known as the hottest area in Africa, which is causing many of them to abandon estates where they grow some of the best dates in the world.

Tunisian farmers claim they are in a losing struggle with illness and drought in an oasis known as the hottest area in Africa, which is causing many of them to abandon estates where they grow some of the best dates in the world. In the past, the date palm orchards at Kebili oasis formed lush, rich islands in a desolate landscape. However, many of the trees are currently dying, and their naked, dry, and fruitless trunks extend into the sky. According to farmers and environmental groups, a decade-long drought in southern Tunisia has made it increasingly difficult to irrigate the palm trees as costs have increased and power outages have increased. "We haven't seen rain since 2011. Underground water is boiling hot. When the electricity is cut off, the farmers can't use the water for irrigation, and the waterwheels are broken," said farmer Mouhamed Bouaziz. "Everything came at the same time." He serves as treasurer of the neighbourhood water association, which aids date growers in gaining access to underground aquifer irrigation. Also read | 'Farming and eating edible insects', British organisations' idea to help a hungry Africa He claimed that the government was disregarding the plight of the farmers as it struggled to pay state salaries and finance wheat imports. Kebili is one of a number of oases on the outskirts of the Sahara desert where a large portion of the dates that Tunisia sends to dozens of nations, primarily in Europe, are grown. The greatest temperature ever recorded in Africa, over 55 degrees Celsius, was reported in Kebili in the 1930s, thus farmers are accustomed to tremendous heat. However, they claim that the effects of climate change, such as the reduced rainfall and a date mite infestation attributed to the dry weather, are making life even more difficult. "If we continue like this with drought and draining the water layer, in 20 or 30 years we will not find dates in Kebili," said environmental activist Moez Hamed, peeling the stumps of desiccated palm fronds from a tree. Other trees show signs of the infestation, with bunches of dates wrapped in the webbing spun by mites as they feed. "It is a new pest that we have not seen before, and its cause is drought," Bouaziz said. As a result of their inability to continue using the irrigation his group offers, more than a third of farmers, according to Bouaziz, have stopped using it and all have shown interest in leaving the oases. They were prepared to take the risky trip over the Mediterranean to seek a new life in Europe, just like many others who were hopeless about the future in their own nation. "Farmers, especially the youth who will inherit these oases and preserve them, have migrated by sea," Bouaziz said. "Those who survive survive, and those who die return in a large box." (With inputs from agencies) Also WATCH | WION Climate Tracker | UN: Somalia is on brink of famine; risk of starvation rises

In Africa's hottest oasis, disease and drought threaten famed date palms

In what may come as rather bizarre advice, a British organisation is calling for hunger-stricken African nations to develop the practice of eating insects. The $58,000 project, a part of Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office aims “to promote the production of insects for human food and for use in the manufacture of animal feeds”, according to The Guardian report.

In what may come as rather bizarre advice, a British organisation is calling for hunger-stricken African nations to develop the practice of eating insects. The $58,000 project, a part of Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office aims “to promote the production of insects for human food and for use in the manufacture of animal feeds”, according to The Guardian report. The project is expected to run from March to December 2022 and is currently in operation in the North and South Kivu provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (Cafod), a charity based in England and Wales is funding the project. The organisation in a response to the publication stated that it was wrong to claim that "the programme is encouraging people to eat insects". In pics | Thousands of men and women in South Africa celebrate the coronation of new Zulu king Primarily, cattle farming is the main occupation of inhabitants of the aforementioned regions. However, the increase in population and scarcity of resources mean that tremendous strain is being put on water supplies, required in large quantities for beef farming. Thus, the project, at least on paper attempts to reduce the reliance on such natural resources by stating that insect-eating requires less land and water than conventional livestock. African caterpillars, migratory locusts, and black soldier flies are some of the insect delicacies put on the menu for the locals to eat. WATCH | Zulu 'bare-breasted maiden' dance revived first time since Covid Although it may not be to everyone's liking, insects are a good source of high-quality animal protein. As a result, in many regions of Africa, edible insects are a part of the basic diet. As for South Kivu, the ground zero of the project, 23 species of insects are consumed. African palm weevil, the litter beetle, termites and crickets are some of the edible insect species consumed here. UN's World Food Programme (WFP) in a report has stated that over 22 million inhabitants living in the Horn of Africa face the threat of starvation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Farming and eating edible insects', British organisations' idea to help a hungry Africa

The measles outbreak in the African country of Zimbabwe is wreaking havoc. According to data released by the health ministry, the death toll from the measles outbreak in the country has risen to almost 700 children.

The measles outbreak in the African country of Zimbabwe is wreaking havoc. According to data released by the health ministry, the death toll from the measles outbreak in the country has risen to almost 700 children. Moreover, the total caseload was more than four times compared to the numbers recorded a fortnight ago. "Measles Update: As at 02 September 2022, Zimbabwe had 6,034 confirmed cases, including 4,266 recoveries and 685 deaths." tweeted the Zimbabwean Health ministry. Measles Update: As at 02 September 2022, Zimbabwe had 6 034 confirmed cases, including 4 266 recoveries and 685 deaths. pic.twitter.com/eZLuhJ9Wlx — Ministry of HealthZW (@MoHCCZim) September 3, 2022 × Read more: Zimbabwe script history, clinch maiden ODI win against Australia Down Under It is pertinent to note that the infections started in the eastern Manicaland province, which borders Mozambique at the beginning of August. Sensing the urgency of the situation, the government invoked Civil Protection Unit Act. “All the victims had not received vaccinations against measles. The government has invoked Civil Protection Unit Act to deal with the emergency, and the Ministry of Health and Child Care is on the ground carrying out an intensive vaccination program. Cabinet has directed the Ministry of Health and Child Care to engage traditional and faith leaders for their support on the vaccination program." said Mutsvangwa. Primarily, it is the kids between the age group six months to 15 years that are succumbing to the disease. The initial symptoms of the viral disease include fever and a red rash. However, if not treated or given the vaccine, the disease turns fatal. Read more: Scientists have discovered Africa's oldest dinosaur named Mbiresaurus raathi in Zimbabwe Notably, the Zimbabwe government is trying to vaccinate children in the aforementioned age group with the help of UN agencies such as UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO). Zimbabwe’s information minister, Monica Mutsvangwa, last month stated that the onus for the rapid spread of the infectious viral disease lay on the religious sects who were refusing to get vaccinated. According to a Reuters report, apostolic sects do not believe in vaccination and rely on prayers. The government is trying to reach the apostolic church leaders in an attempt to persuade them and act rationally. To make sure there are no more impediments in the vaccination process, the local authorities are requesting the faith leaders of primitive sects to give up on their petulance. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

700 children dead in Zimbabwe due to measles outbreak, anti-vaxxers remain a roadblock

The remains of Africa's earliest dinosaur, which walked the world some 230 million years ago, have been found by scientists in Zimbabwe.&nbsp;

The dinosaur, known as Mbiresaurus raathi, was discovered by an international team of palaeontologists. It was only about one metre (3.2 feet) tall, had a long tail, and could weigh up to 30 kilogrammes (66 pounds).&nbsp;

Christopher Griffin, the researcher who found the first bone, told AFP on Thursday that the creature "ran around on two legs and had a fairly small head."&nbsp;

According to Griffin, a 31-year-old researcher at Yale University, the dinosaur belonged to the sauropodomorph species, the same linage that would eventually include huge long-necked dinosaurs. It was likely an omnivore that consumed plants, small animals, and insects.

During two expeditions in 2017 and 2019, a group of researchers from Zimbabwe, Zambia, and the United States discovered the skeleton.&nbsp;

Griffin, a PhD candidate at Virginia Tech University at the time, recalled, "I dug out the full femur and I knew at that instant, that it was a dinosaur and I was holding Africa's earliest known dinosaur fossil."&nbsp;

The research done by his team was initially released in the journal Nature on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Only South America and India had previously yielded dinosaur fossils from the same time period.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-year-old-brings-loaded-handgun-to-school-in-texas-father-arrested-512193">Four-year-old brings loaded handgun to school in Texas, father arrested</a>

The palaeontologists chose the Zimbabwe site for digging after determining that it lay roughly at the same latitude as earlier discoveries in present-day South America when all the continents were linked in a land mass known as Pangea.&nbsp;

According to Max Langer of the University of Sao Paulo in Brazil, "Mbiresaurus raathi is remarkably similar to some dinosaurs of the same age found in Brazil and Argentina, reinforcing that South America and Africa were part of a continuous landmass during the Late Triassic."&nbsp;

The skeleton's location in Zimbabwe's northeastern Mbire district and palaeontologist Michael Raath, who discovered the area's first fossils, is honoured by the name of the dinosaur.

(with inputs from agencies)

<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=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

The remains of Africa's earliest dinosaur, which walked the world some 230 million years ago, have been found by scientists in Zimbabwe. The dinosaur, known as Mbiresaurus raathi, was discovered by an international team of palaeontologists.

The remains of Africa's earliest dinosaur, which walked the world some 230 million years ago, have been found by scientists in Zimbabwe. The dinosaur, known as Mbiresaurus raathi, was discovered by an international team of palaeontologists. It was only about one metre (3.2 feet) tall, had a long tail, and could weigh up to 30 kilogrammes (66 pounds). Christopher Griffin, the researcher who found the first bone, told AFP on Thursday that the creature "ran around on two legs and had a fairly small head." According to Griffin, a 31-year-old researcher at Yale University, the dinosaur belonged to the sauropodomorph species, the same linage that would eventually include huge long-necked dinosaurs. It was likely an omnivore that consumed plants, small animals, and insects. During two expeditions in 2017 and 2019, a group of researchers from Zimbabwe, Zambia, and the United States discovered the skeleton. Griffin, a PhD candidate at Virginia Tech University at the time, recalled, "I dug out the full femur and I knew at that instant, that it was a dinosaur and I was holding Africa's earliest known dinosaur fossil." The research done by his team was initially released in the journal Nature on Wednesday. Only South America and India had previously yielded dinosaur fossils from the same time period. Also Read: Four-year-old brings loaded handgun to school in Texas, father arrested The palaeontologists chose the Zimbabwe site for digging after determining that it lay roughly at the same latitude as earlier discoveries in present-day South America when all the continents were linked in a land mass known as Pangea. According to Max Langer of the University of Sao Paulo in Brazil, "Mbiresaurus raathi is remarkably similar to some dinosaurs of the same age found in Brazil and Argentina, reinforcing that South America and Africa were part of a continuous landmass during the Late Triassic." The skeleton's location in Zimbabwe's northeastern Mbire district and palaeontologist Michael Raath, who discovered the area's first fossils, is honoured by the name of the dinosaur. (with inputs from agencies)

Scientists have discovered Africa's oldest dinosaur named Mbiresaurus raathi in Zimbabwe

africa-0

Africa, News on Africa, stories on Africa, articles on Africa, Africa stories at Wion, Africa news, Africa latest news

africa 0