Kenya is facing worst drought in decades as it is taking toll on the country's famous wildlife. Reportedly, hundreds of animals, including elephants and endangered Grévy's zebras have died in preserves. Watch further to know more.

WION Climate Tracker: Animals dying in droves due to drought in Kenya

Continent-wide data on sports betting is not readily available, but snapshots from different countries show its growing popularity. Online gaming platforms have enjoyed recent growth, driven by the widening adoption of mobile payments and pandemic-era demand for digital entertainment. Much of the betting focuses on soccer games in europe. Critics warn that sports betting in africa is underpinned by widespread poverty, unemployment, and poor or non-existent regulation. However, the craze will not fade anytime soon. Our world of africa special report this week examines why the gambling euphoria has turned into a huge scourge in the continent.

World of Africa: Gambling addiction turns problematic

Hundreds of animals, including elephants and endangered grevy's zebras, have died in Kenyan wildlife reserves during east Africa's worst drought in decades. The Kenya wildlife service and other bodies counted the deaths of 205 elephants, 512 wildebeests, 381 common zebras, 51 buffalos, 49 grevy's zebras, and 12 giraffes in the past nine months. Here's a report from Amboseli National Park.

World of Africa: East Africa faces worst drought in decades

There has been a significant rise in the number of school dropouts in nigeria in the recent years. The number of those children who are denied access to education for no fault of theirs, keeps swelling each year. According to child rights activists and experts, this is worrisome, as these kids might end up in recruiting pools for terror outfits like the boko haram Here’s a report from lagos by our correspondent louisa olaniyi, on what’s preventing these kids from accessing basic education and the potential risks they face in the light of poverty and lack of education.

World of Africa: Nigeria's alarming school drop-out rate

Following their absence and failure to qualify for the 2002 and 2006 world cups, and losing the 2004 African cup of nations final to Tunisia, Morocco resorted to launching the "Mohamed the sixth academy" to search for football talents in the country. Morocco succeeded in graduating a new generation that was the core of the atlas lions team in the 2018 world cup in Russia, before achieving a historic feet of reaching the semi-final match in the Qatar 2022 World Cup.

World of Africa: The jewel of Moroccan football

Africa’s major rivers are facing a decrease in the water levels in 2021. This is compared to the average in the last two decades. The water discharge of Niger, Volta, Nile and Congo rivers in 2021 was less than the average calculated from 2002-2020.

WION Climate Tracker: Africa facing major climate crisis, rivers drying up than usual in 2021

The world is warming and the effects are damning and it is an established fact that the so-called developed nations of the West have emitted The Lion's Share of greenhouse gases.

Climate Tracker: Climate change is an increasing threat to Africa

The three-day US-Africa summit has concluded in Washington DC. Are there any major takeaways from the forum? Watch this to know.

U.S. efforts to court Africa though Washington Summit

President Joe Biden welcomed 49 leaders from Africa on Wednesday for US-Africa Leaders Summit. Biden told African leaders that the United States is "all in on Africa’s future".

President Joe Biden welcomes African leaders for US-Africa leaders summit in Washington

Africa is facing one of the worst food crises where millions of people are suffering from malnutrition and are being forced to migrate in search of food.

WION Climate Tracker | Africa faces its worst hunger crisis with millions struggling for food

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday (December 14) announced a new agreement that seeks to strengthen trade ties between the US and the African continent. The US focus on Africa is being considered to be a counter to greater Chinese influence in the continent.&nbsp;

"The United States is 'all in' on Africa's future," Biden told African leaders attending a three-day summit in Washington.

When it comes to Africa, the US appears to lag China with respect to trade, financial and developmental ties. Chinese trade with the continent is four times that of the US. China has sought to expand its influence by funding infrastructure projects. China is also an important creditor of African nations with terms of credit often less stringent than Western lendors.

Gravitas: Biden hosts 50 African leaders for a summit

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Biden said a new US&nbsp;agreement with the African Continental Free Trade Area will give American companies access to 1.3 billion people and a market valued at $3.4 trillion. He listed companies that had made deals at the summit, including General Electric Co and Cisco Systems Inc.

"When Africa succeeds, the United States succeeds. Quite frankly, the whole world succeeds as well," the president said.

Delegations from 49 countries and the African Union, including 45 African national leaders, are attending the three-day summit, which began on Tuesday, the first and is the first of its kind since 2014. Washington has offered $55 billion in support for Africa under the Biden administration for food security, climate change, trade partnerships and other issues.

After his remarks, Biden viewed some of the World Cup semifinal match between Morocco and France with Morocco's prime minister, Aziz Akhannouch, and other leaders attending the summit, the White House said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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US President Joe Biden on Wednesday (December 14) announced a new agreement that seeks to strengthen trade ties between the US and the African continent. The US focus on Africa is being considered to be a counter to greater Chinese influence in the continent.

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday (December 14) announced a new agreement that seeks to strengthen trade ties between the US and the African continent. The US focus on Africa is being considered to be a counter to greater Chinese influence in the continent. "The United States is 'all in' on Africa's future," Biden told African leaders attending a three-day summit in Washington. When it comes to Africa, the US appears to lag China with respect to trade, financial and developmental ties. Chinese trade with the continent is four times that of the US. China has sought to expand its influence by funding infrastructure projects. China is also an important creditor of African nations with terms of credit often less stringent than Western lendors. Gravitas: Biden hosts 50 African leaders for a summit × Biden said a new US agreement with the African Continental Free Trade Area will give American companies access to 1.3 billion people and a market valued at $3.4 trillion. He listed companies that had made deals at the summit, including General Electric Co and Cisco Systems Inc. "When Africa succeeds, the United States succeeds. Quite frankly, the whole world succeeds as well," the president said. Delegations from 49 countries and the African Union, including 45 African national leaders, are attending the three-day summit, which began on Tuesday, the first and is the first of its kind since 2014. Washington has offered $55 billion in support for Africa under the Biden administration for food security, climate change, trade partnerships and other issues. After his remarks, Biden viewed some of the World Cup semifinal match between Morocco and France with Morocco's prime minister, Aziz Akhannouch, and other leaders attending the summit, the White House said. (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 ×

Seeking to counter China, Biden says US is 'all in' in Africa's future

At least 120 people have been killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo capital Kinshasa after heavy rains unleashed floods and caused landslides, a government document seen by Reuters showed on Tuesday.

Entire neighbourhoods were flooded with muddy water, and houses and roads ripped apart by sinkholes, including the N1 highway that connects Kinshasa to the chief sea port of Matadi.

The prime minister's office said in a statement that the N1 could be closed for 3-4 days.

The death toll was compiled by the General Management of Migration, a part of the interior ministry.

The toll may rise. Health minister Jean-Jacques Mbungani Mbanda told Reuters the ministry had counted 141 dead but that the number needed to be cross-checked with other departments.

Images posted on Twitter by Congo's government spokesman Patrick Muyaya showed a major road that appeared to have subsided into a deep chasm, with crowds staring at the damage.

"On the National Road 1 there is a big hole. Only pedestrians can pass. We do not understand how the water cut the road," said local resident Gabriel Mbikolo.

Once a fishing village on the banks of the Congo river, Kinshasa has grown into one of Africa's largest megacities with a population of around 15 million.

Poorly regulated rapid urbanization has made the city increasingly vulnerable to flash floods after intense rains, which have become more frequent due to climate change.

At least 39 people died in Kinshasa in 2019 when torrential rain flooded low-lying districts and some buildings and roads collapsed.

In addition to damaged infrastructure, each day of flooding costs households a combined $1.2 million due to the large-scale transport disruption, according to a 2020 World Bank paper.

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>.

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At least 120 people have been killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo capital Kinshasa after heavy rains unleashed floods and caused landslides, a government document seen by Reuters showed on Tuesday.

At least 120 people have been killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo capital Kinshasa after heavy rains unleashed floods and caused landslides, a government document seen by Reuters showed on Tuesday. Entire neighbourhoods were flooded with muddy water, and houses and roads ripped apart by sinkholes, including the N1 highway that connects Kinshasa to the chief sea port of Matadi. The prime minister's office said in a statement that the N1 could be closed for 3-4 days. The death toll was compiled by the General Management of Migration, a part of the interior ministry. The toll may rise. Health minister Jean-Jacques Mbungani Mbanda told Reuters the ministry had counted 141 dead but that the number needed to be cross-checked with other departments. Images posted on Twitter by Congo's government spokesman Patrick Muyaya showed a major road that appeared to have subsided into a deep chasm, with crowds staring at the damage. "On the National Road 1 there is a big hole. Only pedestrians can pass. We do not understand how the water cut the road," said local resident Gabriel Mbikolo. Once a fishing village on the banks of the Congo river, Kinshasa has grown into one of Africa's largest megacities with a population of around 15 million. Poorly regulated rapid urbanization has made the city increasingly vulnerable to flash floods after intense rains, which have become more frequent due to climate change. At least 39 people died in Kinshasa in 2019 when torrential rain flooded low-lying districts and some buildings and roads collapsed. In addition to damaged infrastructure, each day of flooding costs households a combined $1.2 million due to the large-scale transport disruption, according to a 2020 World Bank paper. 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 ×

Floods kill at least 120 in Congolese capital

President Joe Biden&nbsp;is set to play host to dozens of African leaders in Washington this week as the White House looks to narrow a gaping trust gap with Africa — one that has grown wider over years of frustration about America’s commitment to the continent.

In the lead-up to the three-day&nbsp;US-Africa Leaders Summit&nbsp;that begins Tuesday, Biden administration officials played down their&nbsp;increasing concern&nbsp;about the clout of&nbsp;China&nbsp;and&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;in Africa, which is home to more than 1.3 billion people. Instead, administration officials tried to put the focus on their efforts to improve cooperation with African leaders.

“This summit is an opportunity to deepen the many partnerships we have on the African continent,” White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said when asked about the shadow that China and Russia cast on the meetings. “We will focus on our efforts to strengthen these partnerships across a wide range of sectors spanning from businesses to health to peace and security, but our focus will be on Africa next week.”

To that end, White House officials said that “major deliverables and initiatives” — diplomatic speak for big announcements — will be peppered throughout the meetings. The White House previewed one&nbsp;major summit<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-g-20-summit-africa-us-national-security-council-united-states-government-ecbff4ac4c0051cecd7d1c1e8fe451bf"> </a>announcement&nbsp;on Friday, saying that Biden would use the gathering to declare his support for adding the African Union as a permanent member of the&nbsp;Group of 20&nbsp;nations.

The summit will be the biggest international gathering in Washington since before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Local officials are warning residents to brace for road blocks and intensified security as 49 invited heads of states and leaders — and Biden — whiz around the city.

Talks are expected to center on the coronavirus, climate change, the impact of&nbsp;Russia’s invasion of<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine"> </a>Ukraine&nbsp;on Africa, trade and more, according to White House officials. Biden is set to deliver remarks at a U.S.-Africa business forum, hold small group meetings with leaders, host a leaders’ dinner at the White House and take part in other sessions with leaders during the gathering.

Biden has spent much of his first two years in office trying to assuage&nbsp;doubters on the international stage<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-united-nations-general-assembly-taiwan-biden-health-9b1b11a721705d0ea3d3c85141f2f968"> </a>about American leadership&nbsp;after four years of Donald Trump’s&nbsp;“America First” foreign policy. With this summit — a follow-up to the first such gathering held eight years ago by President Barack Obama — Biden has an opportunity to assuage concerns in Africa about whether the U.S. is serious about tending to the relationship.

Biden’s effort to draw African nations closer to the U.S. comes at a complicated moment, as his administration has made plain that it believes that Chinese and Russian activity in Africa is a serious concern to U.S. and African interests.

In its&nbsp;sub-Saharan Africa strategy&nbsp;unveiled in August, the Biden administration warned that China, which has pumped billions into African energy, infrastructure and other projects, sees the region as an arena where Beijing can “challenge the rules-based international order, advance its own narrow commercial and geopolitical interests, undermine transparency and openness.”

The administration also argues that Russia, the preeminent arms dealer in Africa, views the continent as a permissive environment for Kremlin-connected oligarchs and private military companies to focus on fomenting instability for their own strategic and financial benefit.

Still, administration officials are emphasizing that concerns about China and Russia will not be central to the talks.

“The United States prioritizes our relationship with Africa for the sake of our mutual interests and our partnership in dealing with global challenges,” Molly Phee, assistant secretary of state for African affairs,&nbsp;told<a href="https://www.state.gov/digital-press-briefing-with-u-s-department-of-states-bureau-of-african-affairs-assistant-secretary-molly-phee-and-national-security-council-senior-director-for-african-affairs-judd-devermont/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a>reporters before the summit.&nbsp;“We are very conscious, again, of the Cold War history, we’re conscious, again, of the deleterious impact of colonialism on Africa, and we studiously seek to avoid repeating some of the mistakes of those earlier eras.”

The administration has been disappointed that much of the continent has declined to follow the US&nbsp;in condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine, but Biden is not expected to dwell on differences publicly.

The president is expected to participate with leaders in a session on promoting food security and food systems resilience. Africa has been disproportionately impacted by the global rise in food prices that has been caused in part by the drop in shipments from major grain exporter Ukraine.

“One of the unique aspects of this summit is the collateral damage that the Russian war has inflicted on Africa in terms of food supply and the diversion of development assistance to Ukraine. The opportunity costs of the invasion have been very high in Africa,” said John Stremlau, a visiting professor of international relations at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg.

Four countries that were suspended from the African Union — Guinea, Sudan, Mali and Burkina Faso— were not invited to the summit because coups in those nations led to unconstitutional changes in power. The White House also did not invite the East African nation of Eritrea; Washington does not have full diplomatic relations with the country.

Biden’s decision to invite several leaders to the summit who have questionable records on human rights and democracy is looming large ahead of the gathering.

Equatorial Guinea was invited despite the State Department stating that it held&nbsp;“serious doubts”&nbsp;about&nbsp;last<a href="https://apnews.com/article/africa-equatorial-guinea-malabo-government-and-politics-teodoro-obiang-nguema-mbasogo-f221186f2e29fc68e4371a13835e1918"> </a>month’s election&nbsp;in the tiny Central African nation. Opposition parties “made credible allegations of significant election-related irregularities, including documented instances of fraud, intimidation, and coercion,” according to the department. Election officials reported that President Teodoro Obiang’s ruling party won nearly 95% of the vote.

Zimbabwe, which has faced years of U.S. and Western sanctions over poor governance, human rights abuses and widespread corruption, also was invited.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who seized power from longtime ruler Robert Mugabe in 2017, has sought to cast himself as a reformer, but local and international human rights campaigners accuse him of repression that is just as bad or even worse than Mugabe’s.

Although Mnangagwa enjoys cozy relations with China and Russia, as did Mugabe, he has also sought to make friends with the U.S. and other Western countries in an effort to bolster his legitimacy.

In a national address that he delivered in November in a new Chinese-gifted multimillion-dollar parliament building, Mnangagwa held out the invitation to the U.S.-Africa summit as a sign of his administration’s success. He said the southern African country welcomed the invitation, but he also called for the “unconditional” removal of sanctions that he blames for Zimbabwe’s debilitating economic woes.

“Emphasis remains on dialogue,” Mnangagwa said.

Ethiopia received an invitation even though Biden late last last year announced he was&nbsp;cutting out the country<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-africa-united-states-global-trade-a3e49884bef0edb51bb9d8020f2b899b"> </a>from a US&nbsp;trade program,&nbsp;known as the African Growth and Opportunity Act, over Ethiopia’s failure to end a war in the Tigray region that led to “gross violations” of human rights. A peace deal was signed last month, but implementation faces major challenges such as the continued presence of troops from neighboring Eritrea.

Analysts say that African leaders will be looking for Biden to make some major commitments during the summit, including announcing his first presidential visit to sub-Saharan Africa, efforts to bolster the continent’s economy through private sector investment and trade and more.

Perhaps most importantly, it could be an opportunity for Biden to demonstrate that Africa is more than a battleground in its economic and military competition with Beijing and Moscow.

“I do strongly believe that the United States is still seen as a superpower from the African perspective, but most African leaders do not want to align with its promotion of democracy,” said Abraham Kuol Nyuon, a political analyst and associate professor of political science at the University of Juba in South Sudan. “They need the support of America but not the system of America.”

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President Joe Biden is set to play host to dozens of African leaders in Washington this week as the White House looks to narrow a gaping trust gap with Africa — one that has grown wider over years of frustration about America’s commitment to the continent.

President Joe Biden is set to play host to dozens of African leaders in Washington this week as the White House looks to narrow a gaping trust gap with Africa — one that has grown wider over years of frustration about America’s commitment to the continent. In the lead-up to the three-day US-Africa Leaders Summit that begins Tuesday, Biden administration officials played down their increasing concern about the clout of China and Russia in Africa, which is home to more than 1.3 billion people. Instead, administration officials tried to put the focus on their efforts to improve cooperation with African leaders. “This summit is an opportunity to deepen the many partnerships we have on the African continent,” White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said when asked about the shadow that China and Russia cast on the meetings. “We will focus on our efforts to strengthen these partnerships across a wide range of sectors spanning from businesses to health to peace and security, but our focus will be on Africa next week.” To that end, White House officials said that “major deliverables and initiatives” — diplomatic speak for big announcements — will be peppered throughout the meetings. The White House previewed one major summit announcement on Friday, saying that Biden would use the gathering to declare his support for adding the African Union as a permanent member of the Group of 20 nations. The summit will be the biggest international gathering in Washington since before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Local officials are warning residents to brace for road blocks and intensified security as 49 invited heads of states and leaders — and Biden — whiz around the city. Talks are expected to center on the coronavirus, climate change, the impact of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on Africa, trade and more, according to White House officials. Biden is set to deliver remarks at a U.S.-Africa business forum, hold small group meetings with leaders, host a leaders’ dinner at the White House and take part in other sessions with leaders during the gathering. Biden has spent much of his first two years in office trying to assuage doubters on the international stage about American leadership after four years of Donald Trump’s “America First” foreign policy. With this summit — a follow-up to the first such gathering held eight years ago by President Barack Obama — Biden has an opportunity to assuage concerns in Africa about whether the U.S. is serious about tending to the relationship. Biden’s effort to draw African nations closer to the U.S. comes at a complicated moment, as his administration has made plain that it believes that Chinese and Russian activity in Africa is a serious concern to U.S. and African interests. In its sub-Saharan Africa strategy unveiled in August, the Biden administration warned that China, which has pumped billions into African energy, infrastructure and other projects, sees the region as an arena where Beijing can “challenge the rules-based international order, advance its own narrow commercial and geopolitical interests, undermine transparency and openness.” The administration also argues that Russia, the preeminent arms dealer in Africa, views the continent as a permissive environment for Kremlin-connected oligarchs and private military companies to focus on fomenting instability for their own strategic and financial benefit. Still, administration officials are emphasizing that concerns about China and Russia will not be central to the talks. “The United States prioritizes our relationship with Africa for the sake of our mutual interests and our partnership in dealing with global challenges,” Molly Phee, assistant secretary of state for African affairs, told reporters before the summit. “We are very conscious, again, of the Cold War history, we’re conscious, again, of the deleterious impact of colonialism on Africa, and we studiously seek to avoid repeating some of the mistakes of those earlier eras.” The administration has been disappointed that much of the continent has declined to follow the US in condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine, but Biden is not expected to dwell on differences publicly. The president is expected to participate with leaders in a session on promoting food security and food systems resilience. Africa has been disproportionately impacted by the global rise in food prices that has been caused in part by the drop in shipments from major grain exporter Ukraine. “One of the unique aspects of this summit is the collateral damage that the Russian war has inflicted on Africa in terms of food supply and the diversion of development assistance to Ukraine. The opportunity costs of the invasion have been very high in Africa,” said John Stremlau, a visiting professor of international relations at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. Four countries that were suspended from the African Union — Guinea, Sudan, Mali and Burkina Faso— were not invited to the summit because coups in those nations led to unconstitutional changes in power. The White House also did not invite the East African nation of Eritrea; Washington does not have full diplomatic relations with the country. Biden’s decision to invite several leaders to the summit who have questionable records on human rights and democracy is looming large ahead of the gathering. Equatorial Guinea was invited despite the State Department stating that it held “serious doubts” about last month’s election in the tiny Central African nation. Opposition parties “made credible allegations of significant election-related irregularities, including documented instances of fraud, intimidation, and coercion,” according to the department. Election officials reported that President Teodoro Obiang’s ruling party won nearly 95% of the vote. Zimbabwe, which has faced years of U.S. and Western sanctions over poor governance, human rights abuses and widespread corruption, also was invited. President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who seized power from longtime ruler Robert Mugabe in 2017, has sought to cast himself as a reformer, but local and international human rights campaigners accuse him of repression that is just as bad or even worse than Mugabe’s. Although Mnangagwa enjoys cozy relations with China and Russia, as did Mugabe, he has also sought to make friends with the U.S. and other Western countries in an effort to bolster his legitimacy. In a national address that he delivered in November in a new Chinese-gifted multimillion-dollar parliament building, Mnangagwa held out the invitation to the U.S.-Africa summit as a sign of his administration’s success. He said the southern African country welcomed the invitation, but he also called for the “unconditional” removal of sanctions that he blames for Zimbabwe’s debilitating economic woes. “Emphasis remains on dialogue,” Mnangagwa said. Ethiopia received an invitation even though Biden late last last year announced he was cutting out the country from a US trade program, known as the African Growth and Opportunity Act, over Ethiopia’s failure to end a war in the Tigray region that led to “gross violations” of human rights. A peace deal was signed last month, but implementation faces major challenges such as the continued presence of troops from neighboring Eritrea. Analysts say that African leaders will be looking for Biden to make some major commitments during the summit, including announcing his first presidential visit to sub-Saharan Africa, efforts to bolster the continent’s economy through private sector investment and trade and more. Perhaps most importantly, it could be an opportunity for Biden to demonstrate that Africa is more than a battleground in its economic and military competition with Beijing and Moscow. “I do strongly believe that the United States is still seen as a superpower from the African perspective, but most African leaders do not want to align with its promotion of democracy,” said Abraham Kuol Nyuon, a political analyst and associate professor of political science at the University of Juba in South Sudan. “They need the support of America but not the system of America.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Biden aims to narrow trust gap with US-Africa leaders summit

Leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) agreed on Sunday to create a regional peacekeeping force which would intervene to help restore constitutional order in the region which has witnessed a number of coups in the past two years. This comes amid an annual summit in Nigeria’s capital Abuja.&nbsp;

“The leaders of ECOWAS have decided to recalibrate our security architecture to ensure that we take care of our own security in the region,” said the president of the ECOWAS commission, Omar Alieu Touray. He added that they are determined to create a regional force which would intervene if required in the areas of security, terrorism and restore the constitutional order in member countries.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coup-in-burkina-faso-as-military-officers-dismiss-junta-leader-521357">Second coup: Burkina Faso soldiers dismiss junta leader, overthrow government</a>

However, no specific details were given as the workings of the regional force will be set by the defence ministers of the member nations who will convene in the second half of next year, said the ECOWAS president. This comes after at least three nations Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso have witnessed military coups in the last two years and have also been suspended from the ECOWAS’ decision-making bodies.&nbsp;

The West African nations’ leaders have expressed concern about the 46 Ivorian soldiers who have been detained in Mali and have asked the Malian authorities to release them by the end of this month. If they fail to do so, ECOWAS will impose sanctions, a West African diplomat told AFP.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-sex-workers-protest-against-murderer-in-front-of-johannesburg-court-530375">South Africa: Sex workers protest against 'murderer' in front of Johannesburg court</a>

The troops were detained earlier this year, following their arrival at the airport in Mali’s capital, Bamako. Ivory Coast has previously said that those troops were sent as a backup for the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the country and has since criticised their detention. 
 
The West African leaders have also said that they are observing the nations’ progress on restoring constitutional order and about Mali “it is essential that constitutional order returns within the planned time frame”, said Touray.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/african-union-announces-immediate-suspension-of-mali-after-second-coup-in-nine-months-388976">African Union announces 'immediate suspension' of Mali after second coup in nine months</a>

Meanwhile, the ECOWAS said that military leadership in Guinea should engage in dialogue with the politicians and parties in the country and work towards restoring civilian rule.&nbsp;

Furthermore, referring to Burkina Faso, Touray said that the leaders have expressed “serious concerns” about the ongoing humanitarian crisis following the military coup in October but also pledged support for the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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Leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) agreed on Sunday to create a regional peacekeeping force which would intervene to help restore constitutional order in the region which has witnessed a number of coups in the past two years.

Leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) agreed on Sunday to create a regional peacekeeping force which would intervene to help restore constitutional order in the region which has witnessed a number of coups in the past two years. This comes amid an annual summit in Nigeria’s capital Abuja. “The leaders of ECOWAS have decided to recalibrate our security architecture to ensure that we take care of our own security in the region,” said the president of the ECOWAS commission, Omar Alieu Touray. He added that they are determined to create a regional force which would intervene if required in the areas of security, terrorism and restore the constitutional order in member countries. ALSO READ | Second coup: Burkina Faso soldiers dismiss junta leader, overthrow government However, no specific details were given as the workings of the regional force will be set by the defence ministers of the member nations who will convene in the second half of next year, said the ECOWAS president. This comes after at least three nations Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso have witnessed military coups in the last two years and have also been suspended from the ECOWAS’ decision-making bodies. The West African nations’ leaders have expressed concern about the 46 Ivorian soldiers who have been detained in Mali and have asked the Malian authorities to release them by the end of this month. If they fail to do so, ECOWAS will impose sanctions, a West African diplomat told AFP. ALSO WATCH | South Africa: Sex workers protest against 'murderer' in front of Johannesburg court The troops were detained earlier this year, following their arrival at the airport in Mali’s capital, Bamako. Ivory Coast has previously said that those troops were sent as a backup for the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the country and has since criticised their detention. The West African leaders have also said that they are observing the nations’ progress on restoring constitutional order and about Mali “it is essential that constitutional order returns within the planned time frame”, said Touray. ALSO READ | African Union announces 'immediate suspension' of Mali after second coup in nine months Meanwhile, the ECOWAS said that military leadership in Guinea should engage in dialogue with the politicians and parties in the country and work towards restoring civilian rule. Furthermore, referring to Burkina Faso, Touray said that the leaders have expressed “serious concerns” about the ongoing humanitarian crisis following the military coup in October but also pledged support for the country. (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.

West African leaders plan to create a regional peacekeeping force in light of recent military coups

Gunmen in Nigeria’s state Katsina killed at least a dozen worshippers in a mosque including the chief imam after they opened fire and subsequently kidnapped several others, late Saturday, said a report by Reuters citing local residents. The state police confirming the attack said some people who were abducted were later rescued with the help of some residents.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2-tiktok-users-in-nigeria-fined-and-sentenced-to-whipping-for-mocking-govt-official-532026">2 TikTok users in Nigeria fined and sentenced to whipping for mocking govt official</a>

The incident took place at the Maigamji mosque where gunmen arrived on motorbikes and started sporadically shooting which prompted the people gathered for night prayers to flee, said Lawal Haruna, a resident of Funtua to Reuters, on Sunday.&nbsp;

The local resident also said that at least 12 people were shot, including the chief imam. “They then gathered many people and took them to the bushes,” said another resident, Abdullahi Mohammed.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nigeria-26-sailors-charged-for-attempting-to-steal-crude-oil-vessel-seized-by-navy-533637">Nigeria: 26 sailors charged for attempting to steal crude oil, vessel seized by Navy</a>

This is the latest attack by armed gangs also referred to as bandits who have previously killed and kidnapped people demanding ransom. The Katsina state police spokesman, Gambo Isah, confirmed the attack and said some worshippers were rescued with the help of some residents.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gunmen-kill-18-worshippers-in-nigeria-mosque-attack-424180">Gunmen kill 18 worshippers in Nigeria mosque attack</a>

Notably, the Nigerian state is also among those that border with the neighbouring Niger, allowing bandits to move freely between the two countries. Furthermore, these gangs have also demanded that the locals pay a protection fee to be allowed to harvest their crops and farm.&nbsp; 
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Gunmen in Nigeria’s state Katsina killed at least a dozen worshippers in a mosque including the chief imam after they opened fire and subsequently kidnapped several others, late Saturday, said a report by Reuters citing local residents.

Gunmen in Nigeria’s state Katsina killed at least a dozen worshippers in a mosque including the chief imam after they opened fire and subsequently kidnapped several others, late Saturday, said a report by Reuters citing local residents. The state police confirming the attack said some people who were abducted were later rescued with the help of some residents. ALSO READ | 2 TikTok users in Nigeria fined and sentenced to whipping for mocking govt official The incident took place at the Maigamji mosque where gunmen arrived on motorbikes and started sporadically shooting which prompted the people gathered for night prayers to flee, said Lawal Haruna, a resident of Funtua to Reuters, on Sunday. The local resident also said that at least 12 people were shot, including the chief imam. “They then gathered many people and took them to the bushes,” said another resident, Abdullahi Mohammed. ALSO WATCH | Nigeria: 26 sailors charged for attempting to steal crude oil, vessel seized by Navy This is the latest attack by armed gangs also referred to as bandits who have previously killed and kidnapped people demanding ransom. The Katsina state police spokesman, Gambo Isah, confirmed the attack and said some worshippers were rescued with the help of some residents. ALSO READ | Gunmen kill 18 worshippers in Nigeria mosque attack Notably, the Nigerian state is also among those that border with the neighbouring Niger, allowing bandits to move freely between the two countries. Furthermore, these gangs have also demanded that the locals pay a protection fee to be allowed to harvest their crops and farm. 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.

Nigeria: Gunmen open fire in mosque, killing at least 12 people, abduct several others

A UN official on Friday (November 18) said she hoped that a shipment of Russian fertiliser exports to Malawi would lead to a further easing of a 300,000 tonne backlog in European ports, as the global body works to address Russian concerns that have threatened a Black Sea grains export deal.

A deal aimed at addressing global food shortages by helping Ukraine export its agricultural products from Black Sea ports was extended for four months on Thursday, though Russia said its demands were yet to be addressed.

"We are really very pleased on the extension of the Black Sea grains initiative....," Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) told a media briefing in Geneva. "But we have said very clearly that we are still not where we want to be, there is still work to be done and especially on fertilisers."

Moscow won guarantees for its own grain and fertiliser exports as part of the July agreement&nbsp;brokered by the United Nations and Turkey. But it has complained that its shipments, though not directly targeted, are constrained by sanctions.

Grynspan, who is in charge of the fertiliser negotiations, said that she hoped a shipment set to sail from the Netherlands on Nov. 21 to Malawi via Mozambique would serve as a model for future exports and that work was going on for another humanitarian cargo to be sent to West Africa.

In the same briefing, she voiced optimism that Russia and Ukraine could agree to the terms for resuming exports of Russian ammonia via a pipeline to the Black Sea. The export of ammonia, a key ingredient in fertiliser, was not part of Thursday's renewal.

Grynspan also said that the U.N. would be aiming for a longer renewal period of the Black Sea Grains deal, beyond the 120 days agreed on November 17.

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A UN official on Friday (November 18) said she hoped that a shipment of Russian fertiliser exports to Malawi would lead to a further easing of a 300,000 tonne backlog in European ports, as the global body works to address Russian concerns that have threatened a Black Sea grains export deal.

A UN official on Friday (November 18) said she hoped that a shipment of Russian fertiliser exports to Malawi would lead to a further easing of a 300,000 tonne backlog in European ports, as the global body works to address Russian concerns that have threatened a Black Sea grains export deal. A deal aimed at addressing global food shortages by helping Ukraine export its agricultural products from Black Sea ports was extended for four months on Thursday, though Russia said its demands were yet to be addressed. "We are really very pleased on the extension of the Black Sea grains initiative....," Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) told a media briefing in Geneva. "But we have said very clearly that we are still not where we want to be, there is still work to be done and especially on fertilisers." Moscow won guarantees for its own grain and fertiliser exports as part of the July agreement brokered by the United Nations and Turkey. But it has complained that its shipments, though not directly targeted, are constrained by sanctions. Grynspan, who is in charge of the fertiliser negotiations, said that she hoped a shipment set to sail from the Netherlands on Nov. 21 to Malawi via Mozambique would serve as a model for future exports and that work was going on for another humanitarian cargo to be sent to West Africa. In the same briefing, she voiced optimism that Russia and Ukraine could agree to the terms for resuming exports of Russian ammonia via a pipeline to the Black Sea. The export of ammonia, a key ingredient in fertiliser, was not part of Thursday's renewal. Grynspan also said that the U.N. would be aiming for a longer renewal period of the Black Sea Grains deal, beyond the 120 days agreed on November 17. 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 ×

UN plans further Russian fertiliser exports to Africa, upbeat on ammonia pipeline

Nairobi's population has doubled over the last 20 years. As a result, new townships have sprung up, which are poorly planned. They often lack light, proper infrastructure and sanitation facilities. However, the Kenyan government has come with an innovative solution. The country is building a smart city which will be designed to promote a sustainable lifestyle. Our next report brings you more.

World of Africa: Kenya's burgeoning capital

Rows of sprawling cacti fill a valley in Zelfen district in Central Tunisia, where producers are hoping the spiky fruit can fuel a cosmetics cash-in, but can it bring wealth to the marginalised province of Kasserine? Let's find out in this next report.

World of Africa: Tunisia's blooming 'cacti cosmetic'

The World Health Organisation estimates that about 15.3% of the world's blind population resides in Africa where they often lack the resources and support needed to succeed in school and everyday life. A Nigerian start up called Vin-Sighte is using technology to assist the visually impaired with several products including "Smart" reading glasses that convert text to audio. Here's a report from Lagos.

World of Africa: From impaired, to visually abled

Ivory coast recently conducted a festival celebrating the culture of Wés, a people of West Africa known for wearing traditional masks. Boyé gôh, the name of the event, is hoped to boost tourism in the region. Here's a report from Guiglo.

World of Africa: Ivorian 'Boye Goh' festival

Equatorial Guinea’s President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has won the re-election bid in the central African country making this his sixth term in office for the world’s longest-serving president for over four decades. The announcement was made by his son and Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, on Saturday, six days after the vote.&nbsp;

The 80-year-old has won the re-election with 95 per cent of the votes which amounts to nearly 405,910 votes, said the vice president. Meanwhile, electoral commission head Faustino Ndong Esono Eyang confirmed that Obiang will serve another seven years as the president and said that the voter turnout rate for the election was 98 per cent, reported AFP.&nbsp;

The landslide victory came amid the incumbent president’s strong rule on the oil-rich central African nation of 1.5 million people. According to the country’s vice president, their ruling Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE) and coalition won 55 seats in the Senate and 100 seats in the lower house which is also known as the Chamber of Deputies.&nbsp;

“The definitive results prove us right again”, said the vice president in a tweet. He added, “We continue to prove to be a great political party!”. Furthermore, he also said that the president can appoint the remaining 15 senate seats. President Obiang seized power in 1979 after a military takeover and has managed to avoid several coup attempts since.

Notably, the incumbent president has repeatedly been re-elected with over 90 per cent votes in a country with only one other legitimate opposition party. Furthermore, reports suggest that media is heavily controlled, protests are mostly forbidden and political opponents are often arrested and tortured in Equatorial Guinea. Earlier this year, the government abolished the death penalty a move that was praised by the United Nations.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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Equatorial Guinea’s President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has won the re-election bid in the central African country making this his sixth term in office for the world’s longest-serving president for over four decades.

Equatorial Guinea’s President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has won the re-election bid in the central African country making this his sixth term in office for the world’s longest-serving president for over four decades. The announcement was made by his son and Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, on Saturday, six days after the vote. The 80-year-old has won the re-election with 95 per cent of the votes which amounts to nearly 405,910 votes, said the vice president. Meanwhile, electoral commission head Faustino Ndong Esono Eyang confirmed that Obiang will serve another seven years as the president and said that the voter turnout rate for the election was 98 per cent, reported AFP. The landslide victory came amid the incumbent president’s strong rule on the oil-rich central African nation of 1.5 million people. According to the country’s vice president, their ruling Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE) and coalition won 55 seats in the Senate and 100 seats in the lower house which is also known as the Chamber of Deputies. “The definitive results prove us right again”, said the vice president in a tweet. He added, “We continue to prove to be a great political party!”. Furthermore, he also said that the president can appoint the remaining 15 senate seats. President Obiang seized power in 1979 after a military takeover and has managed to avoid several coup attempts since. Notably, the incumbent president has repeatedly been re-elected with over 90 per cent votes in a country with only one other legitimate opposition party. Furthermore, reports suggest that media is heavily controlled, protests are mostly forbidden and political opponents are often arrested and tortured in Equatorial Guinea. Earlier this year, the government abolished the death penalty a move that was praised by the United Nations. (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.

Equatorial Guinea: President Obiang wins sixth term in office, extending his 43-year-rule

M23, the rebel group of Democratic Republic of Congo said on Friday that it wants to talk directly with the government after Congo's president and other African leaders signed a ceasefire deal aimed at stopping attacks by the militia.&nbsp;This week, the leaders of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, and Angola gathered in Luanda to discuss a solution to the crisis in eastern Congo, which has compelled thousands of people to escape their homes, and signed a ceasefire agreement to end the militia's attacks.

They committed to enforcing a cease-fire beginning on Friday, and stated that if the M23 did not leave its positions, regional soldiers would act against it.

However, the M23 was not involved in the negotiations and learned about the remark on social media.

WATCH | African leaders agree on ‘immediate ceasefire’ in violence-torn eastern DRC

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“We thank the regional leaders for their efforts to find a peaceful solution to the current conflict,” said M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka.

“Give us direct negotiations with the government to resolve the root causes of conflict that are producing all these wars here,” he said. M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa also issued a statement to the same effect.

The M23, which the government of Congo considers to be a terrorist organisation, was excluded from negotiations. Foreign minister Christophe Lutundula responded, "It won't happen," when asked about this, during a press conference on Thursday. "In the name of the administration and the Republic's President, I can reassure you."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malawis-vice-president-saulos-chilima-arrested-over-corruption-allegations-537600">Malawi’s Vice President Saulos Chilima arrested over corruption allegations</a>

The M23 claimed that a unilateral ceasefire had already been announced in April and that attacks are being started by the Congolese army. The M23 has subsequently taken control of numerous cities in eastern Congo, however combat has persisted since then.

(With inputs from agencies)

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M23, the rebel group of Democratic Republic of Congo said on Friday that it wants to talk directly with the government after Congo's president and other African leaders signed a ceasefire deal aimed at stopping attacks by the militia.

M23, the rebel group of Democratic Republic of Congo said on Friday that it wants to talk directly with the government after Congo's president and other African leaders signed a ceasefire deal aimed at stopping attacks by the militia. This week, the leaders of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, and Angola gathered in Luanda to discuss a solution to the crisis in eastern Congo, which has compelled thousands of people to escape their homes, and signed a ceasefire agreement to end the militia's attacks. They committed to enforcing a cease-fire beginning on Friday, and stated that if the M23 did not leave its positions, regional soldiers would act against it. However, the M23 was not involved in the negotiations and learned about the remark on social media. WATCH | African leaders agree on ‘immediate ceasefire’ in violence-torn eastern DRC “We thank the regional leaders for their efforts to find a peaceful solution to the current conflict,” said M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka. “Give us direct negotiations with the government to resolve the root causes of conflict that are producing all these wars here,” he said. M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa also issued a statement to the same effect. The M23, which the government of Congo considers to be a terrorist organisation, was excluded from negotiations. Foreign minister Christophe Lutundula responded, "It won't happen," when asked about this, during a press conference on Thursday. "In the name of the administration and the Republic's President, I can reassure you." Also read | Malawi’s Vice President Saulos Chilima arrested over corruption allegations The M23 claimed that a unilateral ceasefire had already been announced in April and that attacks are being started by the Congolese army. The M23 has subsequently taken control of numerous cities in eastern Congo, however combat has persisted since then. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Congo: M23 rebels demand dialogue with government after African states declare ceasefire

South Africa, a country which is living in the shadow of one of South Africa’s largest coal-fired power stations has made residents of Masakhane fear job losses if the facility is closed as the country moves to cleaner energy.

Why South Africans fear a switch to clean energy?

African national borders are afflicted by a multitude of troubles that straddle villages and communities. Border disputes have been a reality on the continent through the millennia. Africa certainly has its own peculiar set of problems. Today, close to 100 active border disputes exist across the continent. Rising nationalism, population, and environmental pressures mean that the situation is likely to get worse. Here's world of Africa special report on Africa's feuding neighbour.

World Of Africa: Africa's feuding neighbours

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