Teodoro Obiang Nguema, the President of Equatorial Guinea, is expected to extend his 43-year rule&nbsp;as the nation&nbsp;goes into elections on Sunday. The country has a population of 1.45 million, and over 400,000 people have registered to vote, Reuters reported.

As per Reuters, people will vote to elect their President, as well as 100 members of Parliament for the lower house, 55 out of the country’s 70 senators and local mayors. The 80-year-old president has always been elected with over 90 per cent&nbsp;of voters voting in his favour. However, international observers have questioned the fairness of the elections given the country’s poor record on the political freedom index.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/16-indian-sailors-unlawfully-detained-in-equatorial-guinea-for-over-three-months-531914">16 Indian sailors 'unlawfully' detained in Equatorial Guinea for over three months</a>

As per media reports, Obiang is hoping to claim the presidential throne for the sixth time by defeating his two main opponents; Buenaventura Monsuy Asumu, who is running for the sixth time against him, and Andrés Esono Ondo, who is running for the first time.

Senior political analysts in Africa say that the elections in Equatorial Guinea are “completely devoid of suspense”. Maja Bovcon, a senior Africa analyst at risk intelligence company Verisk Maplecroft, said that the harassment of political opposition in the country is rampant which helps Obiang extend his illegitimate rule over the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/equatorial-guinea-abolishes-death-penalty-state-tv-517914">Equatorial Guinea abolishes death penalty: State TV</a>

The United States and the European Union have also raised concerns over reported cases of harassment and intimidation of opposition groups and civil society groups in the country. Equatorial Guinea rejects such claims while labelling their statements as “interference in its electoral process.”

Obiang stormed to power in 1979 by ousting his uncle Francisco Macias Nguema in a coup. As per Reuters, the country has had only two Presidents since Equatorial Guinea’s independence from Spain in 1968.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Teodoro Obiang Nguema, the President of Equatorial Guinea, is expected to extend his 43-year rule as the nation goes into elections on Sunday. The country has a population of 1.

Teodoro Obiang Nguema, the President of Equatorial Guinea, is expected to extend his 43-year rule as the nation goes into elections on Sunday. The country has a population of 1.45 million, and over 400,000 people have registered to vote, Reuters reported. As per Reuters, people will vote to elect their President, as well as 100 members of Parliament for the lower house, 55 out of the country’s 70 senators and local mayors. The 80-year-old president has always been elected with over 90 per cent of voters voting in his favour. However, international observers have questioned the fairness of the elections given the country’s poor record on the political freedom index. Also read | 16 Indian sailors 'unlawfully' detained in Equatorial Guinea for over three months As per media reports, Obiang is hoping to claim the presidential throne for the sixth time by defeating his two main opponents; Buenaventura Monsuy Asumu, who is running for the sixth time against him, and Andrés Esono Ondo, who is running for the first time. Senior political analysts in Africa say that the elections in Equatorial Guinea are “completely devoid of suspense”. Maja Bovcon, a senior Africa analyst at risk intelligence company Verisk Maplecroft, said that the harassment of political opposition in the country is rampant which helps Obiang extend his illegitimate rule over the country. Also read | Equatorial Guinea abolishes death penalty: State TV The United States and the European Union have also raised concerns over reported cases of harassment and intimidation of opposition groups and civil society groups in the country. Equatorial Guinea rejects such claims while labelling their statements as “interference in its electoral process.” Obiang stormed to power in 1979 by ousting his uncle Francisco Macias Nguema in a coup. As per Reuters, the country has had only two Presidents since Equatorial Guinea’s independence from Spain in 1968. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Equatorial Guinea's President all set to extend his 43-year rule in the country

Thousands have displaced in the volatile Eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo as fighting between Army and M23 rebels moves close to the key city of Goma.

Fears of humanitarian crisis in DRC, thousands flee as fighting between Army, M23 rebels resumes

The growing climate change concerns have launched a global race in the electric vehicle industry. It has become the west versus china, which largely depends on African nations for extraction of EV battery metals.

WION Fineprint | Africa critical to China's EV race with the west

In Southeastern Uganda where the Nile begins its journey to the Mediterranean, the industrial pollutants are a growing menace. The factories that are located near the river dump their waste directly into Africa's longest river.

Smoke from factories near Nile basin concern fishermen

The Climate crisis is not bound by borders and the whole world is feeling its effects. During the UN Climate Summit, African protesters demand action.

WION Climate Tracker | African protesters demand action from COP27

Climate change is spelling trouble for Africa. Somalia is struggling with malnutrition amid the ongoing famine. The worst drought in four decades is wreaking havoc in Kenya.

WION Climate Tracker: Climate change spells trouble for Africa

French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday&nbsp;announced an official end to the country’s nearly nine-year-long ‘Operation Barkhane’, its anti-jihadist operation in the Sahel region of Africa. The French President travelled to a naval base at Toulon in South France to make the announcement.

The development comes after the French soldiers withdrew from Mali on August 15, 2022. The development also marks a strategic shift for the French military forces deployed in the Sahel region of Western Africa, which are assisting several countries to contain jihadist insurgencies.

The Sahel region consists of the vast semi-arid and mostly inhospitable region of Africa, separating the Sahara Desert to the north and tropical savannas to the south. It includes parts of Senegal, Mauritania, Mali, Burkina Faso, Algeria, Niger, Nigeria, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Chad, South Sudan, Eritrea, and Ethiopia.&nbsp;

The announcement&nbsp;will have no impact on the French military presence in the Sahel region. About 3,000 French troops will remain deployed in Niger, Chad, and Burkina Faso.&nbsp;The goal is "to reduce the exposure and visibility of our military forces in Africa and to focus on cooperation and support; mainly in terms of equipment, training, intelligence and operational partnerships for countries that want it," an official from the French President office was quoted as saying by AFP.&nbsp;

These forces will operate in coordination with the concerned government armed forces to assist them in anti-jihadist operations.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/growing-international-concern-over-the-situation-in-mali-443487">Growing international concern over the situation in Mali</a>

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The French troops' deployment was launched in 2013 when the jihadist insurgents took over much of northern Mali before being pushed away by the French and their regional partners.&nbsp;

At its peak,&nbsp;the French forces numbered 5,500.&nbsp;Mali's military leaders remain in power in the capital Bamako due to alleged collusion with the Russia-backed Wagner group.

The French army, along with its partners in the region consisting of Niger, Chad, Burkina Faso, and Mauritiana, had left Mali in mid-August after nine years of continuous fighting with the Jihadist forces.&nbsp;

France's anti-jihadist operation in Mali: A dangerous quest for 'peace'

The local hostility to the French forces, stoked by disinformation on social media and in part by the country's own record of colonialism in the region, made France's 'Operation Barkhane', a dangerous quest for 'peace', as French forces repeatedly asserted. The last nail was the 2020 coup in Mali, whose leaders accused France of interference and turned to Russia's Wagner group for security. A recent report by the Strategic Research Institute of the Military School (Irsem), which is part of the French Ministry of Defense, described the "proliferation of disinformation content online, most often intended to denigrate the French presence and justify that of Russia" in Mali.

Macron to draw a line under anti-jihadist campaign

Reports say that Macron wants to draw a public line under the campaign and that France is not abandoning its fight against extremists in the region but its terms of engagement will be different.

"Our soldiers remain covered, protected, supported, administered in conditions that are satisfactory" but the official announcement is "necessary locally", a statement from the French Presidential office said.&nbsp;

"In the field of perceptions, Barkhane continues to occupy a very important presence on social networks. It is necessary to put a clear end to it in order to switch to another logic", it concluded.

(With inputs from agencies)

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French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday announced an official end to the country’s nearly nine-year-long ‘Operation Barkhane’, its anti-jihadist operation in the Sahel region of Africa.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday announced an official end to the country’s nearly nine-year-long ‘Operation Barkhane’, its anti-jihadist operation in the Sahel region of Africa. The French President travelled to a naval base at Toulon in South France to make the announcement. The development comes after the French soldiers withdrew from Mali on August 15, 2022. The development also marks a strategic shift for the French military forces deployed in the Sahel region of Western Africa, which are assisting several countries to contain jihadist insurgencies. The Sahel region consists of the vast semi-arid and mostly inhospitable region of Africa, separating the Sahara Desert to the north and tropical savannas to the south. It includes parts of Senegal, Mauritania, Mali, Burkina Faso, Algeria, Niger, Nigeria, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Chad, South Sudan, Eritrea, and Ethiopia. The announcement will have no impact on the French military presence in the Sahel region. About 3,000 French troops will remain deployed in Niger, Chad, and Burkina Faso. The goal is "to reduce the exposure and visibility of our military forces in Africa and to focus on cooperation and support; mainly in terms of equipment, training, intelligence and operational partnerships for countries that want it," an official from the French President office was quoted as saying by AFP. These forces will operate in coordination with the concerned government armed forces to assist them in anti-jihadist operations. WATCH | Growing international concern over the situation in Mali × The French troops' deployment was launched in 2013 when the jihadist insurgents took over much of northern Mali before being pushed away by the French and their regional partners. At its peak, the French forces numbered 5,500. Mali's military leaders remain in power in the capital Bamako due to alleged collusion with the Russia-backed Wagner group. The French army, along with its partners in the region consisting of Niger, Chad, Burkina Faso, and Mauritiana, had left Mali in mid-August after nine years of continuous fighting with the Jihadist forces. France's anti-jihadist operation in Mali: A dangerous quest for 'peace' The local hostility to the French forces, stoked by disinformation on social media and in part by the country's own record of colonialism in the region, made France's 'Operation Barkhane', a dangerous quest for 'peace', as French forces repeatedly asserted. The last nail was the 2020 coup in Mali, whose leaders accused France of interference and turned to Russia's Wagner group for security. A recent report by the Strategic Research Institute of the Military School (Irsem), which is part of the French Ministry of Defense, described the "proliferation of disinformation content online, most often intended to denigrate the French presence and justify that of Russia" in Mali. Macron to draw a line under anti-jihadist campaign Reports say that Macron wants to draw a public line under the campaign and that France is not abandoning its fight against extremists in the region but its terms of engagement will be different. "Our soldiers remain covered, protected, supported, administered in conditions that are satisfactory" but the official announcement is "necessary locally", a statement from the French Presidential office said. "In the field of perceptions, Barkhane continues to occupy a very important presence on social networks. It is necessary to put a clear end to it in order to switch to another logic", it concluded. (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.

Macron announces end of anti-jihadist 'Operation Barkhane' in Africa's Sahel region

Kenya's new President William Ruto released loan documents related to a controversial Chinese railway project that his predecessor's government fought a years-long battle in the courts to keep classified. Ruto, during his presidential campaign before August 2022, had promised to bring more transparency between Nairobi and Beijing. Multiple stakeholders of Kenyan polity — politicians, civil society, and others — blame Beijing for burdening the East African country with massive debt.

The development also marks a rarity in Africa, where large-scale infrastructure deals remain under the radar.

The $5 billion loan agreement, signed between the two sides in 2011, was undisclosed until Kenya's Transport Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen released selected pages on Sunday.

“As promised I have released the SGR (Standard Gauge Railway) agreements to the people of Kenya,” Transport Minister Kipchumba Murkomen said in a tweet.

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As promised I have released the SGR agreements to the people of Kenya. I have given a copy to the Majority Leaders <a href="https://twitter.com/KIMANIICHUNGWAH?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KIMANIICHUNGWAH</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/Aaroncheruiyot?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Aaroncheruiyot</a> for them to table in the respective Houses of Parliament. I have also shared a copy with the media. <a href="https://t.co/Emu61EDiEo">pic.twitter.com/Emu61EDiEo</a>
— KIPCHUMBA MURKOMEN, E.G.H (@kipmurkomen) <a href="https://twitter.com/kipmurkomen/status/1589283107978752000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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One of the clauses of the deal with the Export-Import Bank of China, concerning a cross-country railway project, says that 'any major dispute over the railway would be decided in Beijing', and therefore, not in Nairobi. It remains unclear if this means that Chinese officials would have the final say in such disputes.

Some lawmakers of Kenya have demanded to know whether Kenya put up public facilities as collateral in the deal.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-china-denies-debt-trap-in-africa-443024">Gravitas: China denies debt trap in Africa</a>

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Chinese state-owned lenders committed to lending $9.3 billion to Kenya between 2000 and 2020, according to Boston University. Kenya’s total debt is almost 70 per cent of the gross domestic product. The country's debt rose from $16 billion in 2013 to $71 billion in 2021. As a result, Kenya spends nearly 30 per cent of its revenues on interest payments. The World Bank and Eurobond holders account for nearly half of Kenya's external debt at 28 per cent and 20 per cent respectively.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-debt-trap-strategy-uganda-set-to-lose-its-only-international-airport-to-beijing-432465">China's debt trap strategy: Uganda set to lose its only international airport to Beijing</a>

The contracts for the railway, which began operating from Mombasa to Nairobi in 2017 and was extended two years later, have long been a subject of controversy, with the previous government citing confidentiality clauses when a court ordered their publication earlier this year.

China has lent billions of dollars to countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America over the past two decades, much of it for large infrastructure projects linked to its Belt and Road Initiative.

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(With inputs from agencies)

Kenya's new President William Ruto released loan documents related to a controversial Chinese railway project that his predecessor's government fought a years-long battle in the courts to keep classified.

Kenya's new President William Ruto released loan documents related to a controversial Chinese railway project that his predecessor's government fought a years-long battle in the courts to keep classified. Ruto, during his presidential campaign before August 2022, had promised to bring more transparency between Nairobi and Beijing. Multiple stakeholders of Kenyan polity — politicians, civil society, and others — blame Beijing for burdening the East African country with massive debt. The development also marks a rarity in Africa, where large-scale infrastructure deals remain under the radar. The $5 billion loan agreement, signed between the two sides in 2011, was undisclosed until Kenya's Transport Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen released selected pages on Sunday. “As promised I have released the SGR (Standard Gauge Railway) agreements to the people of Kenya,” Transport Minister Kipchumba Murkomen said in a tweet. As promised I have released the SGR agreements to the people of Kenya. I have given a copy to the Majority Leaders @KIMANIICHUNGWAH and @Aaroncheruiyot for them to table in the respective Houses of Parliament. I have also shared a copy with the media. pic.twitter.com/Emu61EDiEo — KIPCHUMBA MURKOMEN, E.G.H (@kipmurkomen) November 6, 2022 × One of the clauses of the deal with the Export-Import Bank of China, concerning a cross-country railway project, says that 'any major dispute over the railway would be decided in Beijing', and therefore, not in Nairobi. It remains unclear if this means that Chinese officials would have the final say in such disputes. Some lawmakers of Kenya have demanded to know whether Kenya put up public facilities as collateral in the deal. WATCH | Gravitas: China denies debt trap in Africa × Chinese state-owned lenders committed to lending $9.3 billion to Kenya between 2000 and 2020, according to Boston University. Kenya’s total debt is almost 70 per cent of the gross domestic product. The country's debt rose from $16 billion in 2013 to $71 billion in 2021. As a result, Kenya spends nearly 30 per cent of its revenues on interest payments. The World Bank and Eurobond holders account for nearly half of Kenya's external debt at 28 per cent and 20 per cent respectively. ALSO READ | China's debt trap strategy: Uganda set to lose its only international airport to Beijing The contracts for the railway, which began operating from Mombasa to Nairobi in 2017 and was extended two years later, have long been a subject of controversy, with the previous government citing confidentiality clauses when a court ordered their publication earlier this year. China has lent billions of dollars to countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America over the past two decades, much of it for large infrastructure projects linked to its Belt and Road Initiative. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Kenya discloses loan documents of Chinese-built railway amid looming debt crisis

The European Union was accused by 10&nbsp;African countries of negatively impacting the survival of hippopotamus due to their stand on the proposed commercial trade ban. According to the documents submitted by the countries - Benin, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Gabon, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo, the population of hippos has dropped drastically in the last decade.&nbsp;

According to The Guardian, the hippo population in Algeria, Egypt, Eritrea, Liberia, and Mauritania has been wiped out due to constant illegal hunting for ivory which is extremely valuable on the global market&nbsp;and as a result, the demand for a blanket ban has dominated headlines for quite some time. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-trade-economy-ukraine-war-on-agenda-as-indias-jaishankar-meets-russian-counterpart-in-moscow-532211" hreflang="en">Oil, trade, war on agenda as India's Jaishankar meets Russian counterpart</a>

However, the EU is expected to oppose a complete ban on hippo products at the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora&nbsp;(Cites) conference&nbsp;in Panama.&nbsp;

“By openly opposing our proposal, the EU is jeopardising the chances of the west and central Africa region, which are range states of more than half of the hippo populations, to adequately ensure the survival of the species. Hippos have been silently dying for 30 years. We must act quickly before they become extinct,” a letter from the African countries to the EU high command read.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-india-becomes-top-importer-of-russian-oil-us-says-not-planning-sanctions-532144">No sanctions on countries like India for importing Russian oil, says US</a>

The global population has also taken a hit recently with a drop of around 30-50 per cent in the last decade and it can mainly be attributed to the meat and ivory trade. The issue was also recognised by International Union for the Conservation of Nature as they were classified as “vulnerable&nbsp;to extinction".&nbsp;

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The European Union was accused by 10 African countries of negatively impacting the survival of hippopotamus due to their stand on the proposed commercial trade ban.

The European Union was accused by 10 African countries of negatively impacting the survival of hippopotamus due to their stand on the proposed commercial trade ban. According to the documents submitted by the countries - Benin, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Gabon, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo, the population of hippos has dropped drastically in the last decade. According to The Guardian, the hippo population in Algeria, Egypt, Eritrea, Liberia, and Mauritania has been wiped out due to constant illegal hunting for ivory which is extremely valuable on the global market and as a result, the demand for a blanket ban has dominated headlines for quite some time. Also read | Oil, trade, war on agenda as India's Jaishankar meets Russian counterpart However, the EU is expected to oppose a complete ban on hippo products at the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (Cites) conference in Panama. “By openly opposing our proposal, the EU is jeopardising the chances of the west and central Africa region, which are range states of more than half of the hippo populations, to adequately ensure the survival of the species. Hippos have been silently dying for 30 years. We must act quickly before they become extinct,” a letter from the African countries to the EU high command read. Also read | No sanctions on countries like India for importing Russian oil, says US The global population has also taken a hit recently with a drop of around 30-50 per cent in the last decade and it can mainly be attributed to the meat and ivory trade. The issue was also recognised by International Union for the Conservation of Nature as they were classified as “vulnerable to extinction".

Ten African countries accuse European Union of endangering global hippo population

Following a confrontation in which a far-right MP yelled "back to Africa" at a black colleague that sparked outrage across the political spectrum, the French National Assembly agreed Friday to punish him with an unusual 15-day suspension and salary cut.&nbsp;

Gregoire de Fournas, a recently elected National Rally member, has disputed that the outburst was a personal racial assault and has stated that he was making reference to a ship in the Mediterranean delivering rescued migrants.&nbsp;

Under its norms, which in general defend MPs' right to free expression while in session, the National Assembly's lower house has recommended the heaviest penalty imaginable.

Only twice in the history of Charles de Gaulle's Fifth Republic in France, which began in 1958, did an MP get such a censure.&nbsp;

The event occurred at a time when immigration tensions are at an all-time high and President Emmanuel Macron's administration has promised a new crackdown amid claims that it has failed to stop new arrivals or deport those whose residence applications have been denied.&nbsp;

Carlos Martens Bilongo of the left-leaning France Unbowed party (LFI) grilled the administration on Thursday on the SOS Mediterranee NGO's request for assistance in finding a port for the ship that recently saved 234 migrants at sea.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pak-pm-imran-khan-to-address-the-nation-shortly-pti-announces-nationwide-protests-531241">&nbsp;Imran Khan addresses the nation; blames PM Shehbaz Sharif, home minister and ISI for attack on him</a>

"It should go back to Africa!" interrupted de Fournas, a winegrower from the southwestern Gironde department, drawing gasps of shock from many in parliament.

The pronouns "it" and "he" have the same pronunciation in French, which led some to believe that de Fournas was specifically targeting Bilongo.

"Racism, no matter its target, is a negation of the republican values that unite us in this assembly," its president Yael Braun-Pivet said after the vote.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Following a confrontation in which a far-right MP yelled "back to Africa" at a black colleague that sparked outrage across the political spectrum, the French National Assembly agreed Friday to punish him with an unusual 15-day suspension and salary cut.

Following a confrontation in which a far-right MP yelled "back to Africa" at a black colleague that sparked outrage across the political spectrum, the French National Assembly agreed Friday to punish him with an unusual 15-day suspension and salary cut. Gregoire de Fournas, a recently elected National Rally member, has disputed that the outburst was a personal racial assault and has stated that he was making reference to a ship in the Mediterranean delivering rescued migrants. Under its norms, which in general defend MPs' right to free expression while in session, the National Assembly's lower house has recommended the heaviest penalty imaginable. Only twice in the history of Charles de Gaulle's Fifth Republic in France, which began in 1958, did an MP get such a censure. The event occurred at a time when immigration tensions are at an all-time high and President Emmanuel Macron's administration has promised a new crackdown amid claims that it has failed to stop new arrivals or deport those whose residence applications have been denied. Carlos Martens Bilongo of the left-leaning France Unbowed party (LFI) grilled the administration on Thursday on the SOS Mediterranee NGO's request for assistance in finding a port for the ship that recently saved 234 migrants at sea. Also Read: Imran Khan addresses the nation; blames PM Shehbaz Sharif, home minister and ISI for attack on him "It should go back to Africa!" interrupted de Fournas, a winegrower from the southwestern Gironde department, drawing gasps of shock from many in parliament. The pronouns "it" and "he" have the same pronunciation in French, which led some to believe that de Fournas was specifically targeting Bilongo. "Racism, no matter its target, is a negation of the republican values that unite us in this assembly," its president Yael Braun-Pivet said after the vote. (with inputs from agencies)

French far-right MP faces 15-day suspension for yelling 'back to Africa' in parliament

After two years of war, the Ethiopian government and the Tigrayan forces have signed a peace deal. It was mediated by the African union. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Ethiopian peace deal

Glencore is facing fines in&nbsp;millions of dollars for a series of corruption offences in which it used a private plane to fly money to bribe officials in different African governments.

In June, a division of the FTSE 100 commodities behemoth admitted to paying many bribes to get access to oil supplies.

Following the filing of a number of charges by the Serious Fraud Office, it was the first time a firm had ever been found guilty of bribery under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-defends-uk-governments-handling-of-channel-migrants-530634">UK</a> law (SFO).

Glencore may face fines of over £243 million, and the SFO is requesting the highest confiscation order ever against a British business of £93.4 million, as well as £4.5 million in fees.

At today's sentence hearing at Southwark Crown Court in London, the exact sum will be decided.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-australians-arrested-for-bribing-sri-lankan-officials-to-secure-infra-contracts-524572">Two Australians arrested for bribing Sri Lankan officials to secure infra contracts</a>

Glencore's attorney stated on Wednesday at a hearing that the company "unconditionally regrets the harm caused."

However, prosecuting attorney Alexandra Healy asserted that "corruption was pervasive inside the enterprise" and that "offering of bribes was an accepted method of conducting business for the company."

After a protracted inquiry, it was discovered that Glencore's London-based oil trading department paid bribes totaling more than £24 million to get privileged access to cargoes in South Sudan, Nigeria, Cameroon, the Ivory Coast, and Nigeria.

Also watch |&nbsp;A dramatic diplomatic breakthrough: Ethiopian govt, Tigray authorities sign a peace deal

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The investigation discovered that a Glencore agent in Nigeria took over £3.6 million from a slush fund and often used a private plane to fly the money to Cameroon to bribe authorities, among a long list of other offences.

Agents, executives, and dealers for Glencore were so casual that they frequently addressed one another as "senorita" and "bro," even when talking about bribery.

Another agent received £870,000 in 2011 to pay bribes to Equatorial Guinean authorities in exchange for access to oil cargo, and the company reportedly approved £5,000 in "hotel charges" for the agent during a trip to London.

A top SFO team comprised entirely of women led the Glencore inquiry.

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Photo credits: The Guardian

These included, (above) from left to right: Sara Chouraqui, joint head of fraud, bribery and corruption and Victoria Jacobson, the prosecutor for Operation Azoth – codename for the Glencore probe – as well as department director Lisa Osofsky and case controller Liz Collery.

A Glencore official made a request for approximately £700,000 from the business' Swiss cash desk the same year, purportedly for "establishing an office in South Sudan" soon after the country gained independence.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Glencore is facing fines in millions of dollars for a series of corruption offences in which it used a private plane to fly money to bribe officials in different African governments.

Glencore is facing fines in millions of dollars for a series of corruption offences in which it used a private plane to fly money to bribe officials in different African governments. In June, a division of the FTSE 100 commodities behemoth admitted to paying many bribes to get access to oil supplies. Following the filing of a number of charges by the Serious Fraud Office, it was the first time a firm had ever been found guilty of bribery under UK law (SFO). Glencore may face fines of over £243 million, and the SFO is requesting the highest confiscation order ever against a British business of £93.4 million, as well as £4.5 million in fees. At today's sentence hearing at Southwark Crown Court in London, the exact sum will be decided. Also read | Two Australians arrested for bribing Sri Lankan officials to secure infra contracts Glencore's attorney stated on Wednesday at a hearing that the company "unconditionally regrets the harm caused." However, prosecuting attorney Alexandra Healy asserted that "corruption was pervasive inside the enterprise" and that "offering of bribes was an accepted method of conducting business for the company." After a protracted inquiry, it was discovered that Glencore's London-based oil trading department paid bribes totaling more than £24 million to get privileged access to cargoes in South Sudan, Nigeria, Cameroon, the Ivory Coast, and Nigeria. Also watch | A dramatic diplomatic breakthrough: Ethiopian govt, Tigray authorities sign a peace deal The investigation discovered that a Glencore agent in Nigeria took over £3.6 million from a slush fund and often used a private plane to fly the money to Cameroon to bribe authorities, among a long list of other offences. Agents, executives, and dealers for Glencore were so casual that they frequently addressed one another as "senorita" and "bro," even when talking about bribery. Another agent received £870,000 in 2011 to pay bribes to Equatorial Guinean authorities in exchange for access to oil cargo, and the company reportedly approved £5,000 in "hotel charges" for the agent during a trip to London. A top SFO team comprised entirely of women led the Glencore inquiry. Photo credits: The Guardian These included, (above) from left to right: Sara Chouraqui, joint head of fraud, bribery and corruption and Victoria Jacobson, the prosecutor for Operation Azoth – codename for the Glencore probe – as well as department director Lisa Osofsky and case controller Liz Collery. A Glencore official made a request for approximately £700,000 from the business' Swiss cash desk the same year, purportedly for "establishing an office in South Sudan" soon after the country gained independence. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Glencore faces steep penalties over African bribery scandal; mining corporation used private jet to fly bribe

Africa's largest tusked female elephant died in Kenya. 'Dida' was a matriarch aged around 65 years. She used to live in Tsavo East National Park Wildlife. Officials confirmed that she passed away due natural causes. She was famous for her long tusks and was extremely popular with the tourists.

Africa: Kenya's largest female elephant 'Dida' dies

Dida, the&nbsp;majestic female elephant aged between 60 and 65 years, died of old age at Kenya’s Tsavo East National Park. Believed to be Africa’s largest female tusker while she lived and thrived on Kenyan grasslands, Dida came to symbolise the elevated stature of her species in African wildlife. Dida lived well beyond the usual&nbsp;life expectancy for an elephant in the wild, flaunting her long tusks and weathering tusker thick skin for tourists and native Kenyan citizens alike.&nbsp;

“She died from natural causes due to old age having lived a full life,” the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) informed on Twitter while attaching the images of now deceased tusker.

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A matriach has rested 🐘 
 
We are saddened by the death of Dida who was possibly Africa’s largest female Tusker and a Matriarch residing in <a href="https://twitter.com/KWSTsavoEast?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KWSTsavoEast</a> National Park. She died from natural causes due to old age having lived a full life to about 60-65 years old. <a href="https://t.co/914FMPKLoF">pic.twitter.com/914FMPKLoF</a>
— Kenya Wildlife Service (@kwskenya) <a href="https://twitter.com/kwskenya/status/1587390744356175873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Dida, a repository of decades of knowledge: Kenya Wildlife Service

“Dida was a truly an iconic matriarch of Tsavo and a great repository of many decades worth of knowledge. She shepherded her herd through many seasons and challenging times. She served as both the subject to various documentaries and an iconic tourist attraction,” Kenya Wildlife Service&nbsp;added. 
 
Environment conservation group Tsavo Trust pointed out that Dida was “a true embodiment of an iconic cow (female elephant)”.&nbsp;

The group statement on Facebook added that Dida will be even better remembered by the many generations of Tsavo’s elephants, “who will benefit, for years to come, from the lessons they learnt as they watched their matriarch pass her careful judgment.” 
“An elephant never forgets.”

Dida’s death comes amid&nbsp;Kenya’s driest spell&nbsp;in decades

Dida’s death “due to old age” comes at a time when Kenya is facing its worst drought in 40 years, threatening wildlife and human survival alike. A United Nations report released October 23 said that in some areas, over 90 per cent of water sources have dried up.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-kenya-ravaged-by-alarming-drought-15-mn-people-forced-to-abandon-homes-521228">WION Climate Tracker: Kenya ravaged by alarming drought; 1.5 mn people forced to abandon homes</a>

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The drought around the Tsavo conservation area has stoked animals in the wild to scour areas well beyond their traditional territories for food and water. To address the crisis, the United Nations has issued a call for $320 million in assistance for Kenya through a “joint drought appeal”.

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Dida, the majestic female elephant aged between 60 and 65 years, died of old age at Kenya’s Tsavo East National Park. Believed to be Africa’s largest female tusker while she lived and thrived on Kenyan grasslands, Dida came to symbolise the elevated stature of her species in African wildlife.

Dida, the majestic female elephant aged between 60 and 65 years, died of old age at Kenya’s Tsavo East National Park. Believed to be Africa’s largest female tusker while she lived and thrived on Kenyan grasslands, Dida came to symbolise the elevated stature of her species in African wildlife. Dida lived well beyond the usual life expectancy for an elephant in the wild, flaunting her long tusks and weathering tusker thick skin for tourists and native Kenyan citizens alike. “She died from natural causes due to old age having lived a full life,” the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) informed on Twitter while attaching the images of now deceased tusker. A matriach has rested 🐘 We are saddened by the death of Dida who was possibly Africa’s largest female Tusker and a Matriarch residing in @KWSTsavoEast National Park. She died from natural causes due to old age having lived a full life to about 60-65 years old. pic.twitter.com/914FMPKLoF — Kenya Wildlife Service (@kwskenya) November 1, 2022 × Dida, a repository of decades of knowledge: Kenya Wildlife Service “Dida was a truly an iconic matriarch of Tsavo and a great repository of many decades worth of knowledge. She shepherded her herd through many seasons and challenging times. She served as both the subject to various documentaries and an iconic tourist attraction,” Kenya Wildlife Service added. Environment conservation group Tsavo Trust pointed out that Dida was “a true embodiment of an iconic cow (female elephant)”. The group statement on Facebook added that Dida will be even better remembered by the many generations of Tsavo’s elephants, “who will benefit, for years to come, from the lessons they learnt as they watched their matriarch pass her careful judgment.” “An elephant never forgets.” Dida’s death comes amid Kenya’s driest spell in decades Dida’s death “due to old age” comes at a time when Kenya is facing its worst drought in 40 years, threatening wildlife and human survival alike. A United Nations report released October 23 said that in some areas, over 90 per cent of water sources have dried up. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Kenya ravaged by alarming drought; 1.5 mn people forced to abandon homes × The drought around the Tsavo conservation area has stoked animals in the wild to scour areas well beyond their traditional territories for food and water. To address the crisis, the United Nations has issued a call for $320 million in assistance for Kenya through a “joint drought appeal”. 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.

Dida, Africa’s ‘largest’ female tusker and iconic matriarch, dies of old age in Kenya

According to a new report published by the US-based research organization Health Effects Institute, nearly the entire African continent faces some of the most severe health impacts in the world due to air pollution, with several countries experiencing some of the highest levels of air pollution in the world (HEI).

The new report, The State of Air Quality and Health Impacts in Africa, provides a comprehensive analysis of major air pollution sources and related health impacts in Africa's 1.2 billion-person population.

The report, released just before the United Nations` upcoming COP27 Climate Change Conference in Egypt, discovered that air pollution is the continent's second leading cause of death. Africa has five of the top ten most polluted countries in the world in terms of outdoor fine particulate matter (PM2.5). In studies of long-term air pollution exposure, outdoor PM2.5 is the most consistent predictor of deaths from cardiovascular, respiratory, and other diseases. In 2019, air pollution was responsible for an estimated 1.1 million deaths in Africa, with 63 per cent&nbsp;of those deaths being linked to exposure to household air pollution (HAP).

Impacts of Air Pollution on Children

Access to clean energy is not evenly distributed across Africa, resulting in higher disease burdens in some areas. An estimated 75 per cent&nbsp;of the population in East, West, Central, and Southern Africa cooks with solid fuels such as coal, wood, and charcoal, exposing residents to high concentrations of harmful pollutants at home every day. In these areas, newborns and children under the age of five are especially vulnerable to household air pollution caused by the use of solid fuels for cooking. Air pollution was responsible for 14 per cent&nbsp;of all deaths in Africa`s children under the age of five in 2019.

The effects on newborns and infants have long-term health consequences, including issues with lung development and increased susceptibility to communicable diseases such as lower respiratory infections in young children.

Caradee Wright, the Chief Specialist Scientist with the South African Medical Research Council, said, "This report gives evidence of the substantial threat air pollution poses to the health, and even life, of babies and children under the age of 5 years. This vulnerable group needs special attention to mitigate their exposures, for example, through policy and intensive awareness campaigns with practical solutions for mothers and caregivers."

Air Pollution Sources Across the Continent

Many of the same sources of PM2.5 found elsewhere in the world are present in Africa, including the use of solid fuels for cooking, the use of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and gas) for energy production, vehicles, industrial and semi-industrial activities such as artisanal mining, agriculture, forest fires, and open waste fire pits. Windblown dust, a natural source of air pollution, is also a major contributor to PM2.5 levels in some parts of Africa.

Air pollution sources and health consequences can vary greatly across the continent. Western Africa has the highest average concentration of PM2.5 pollution at 64.1 g/m3, while Southern Africa has the lowest at 26.5 g/m3. The use of fossil fuels contributes up to 41 per cent of total outdoor PM2.5 levels in Southern Africa, but only 11 per cent in Eastern Africa.

Targeted Actions are Beginning: More Needed

While air pollution levels are high, African countries are implementing a variety of programs to mitigate the effects of air pollution. So far, 17 African countries have implemented national air quality policies, with many including action on air pollution sources, particularly household air pollution, as part of their country's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). In 2019, Africa had one of the world`s lowest rates of energy access, with fewer than one in every 20 people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Madagascar, Mozambique, Niger, Uganda, and Tanzania having access to clean cooking fuels.

At the same time, a scarcity of ground-level air quality monitoring stations means countries are not able to accurately track their progress towards meeting air quality objectives and standards.

Dr Patrick de Marie Katoto of the Catholic University of Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, said, "Air pollution greatly contributes to the rising frequency of chronic noncommunicable diseases in Africa, putting further strain on a health system already stretched by chronic infectious diseases and, more recently, COVID-19. These findings call for the African Union and member states to promote, plan, and fund air quality interventions to prevent unnecessary disabilities and deaths throughout the continent."

Key Connections Between Air Pollution and Climate

Africa will consider how energy transitions can be designed to be efficient, economically feasible, sustainable, and environmentally friendly as the world`s nations gather in Egypt next month for the COP27 climate meetings. This complex challenge necessitates a nuanced conversation at the intersection of energy, climate, air quality, and health. African Union countries have also adopted "Agenda 2063," a continent-wide program that lays out a strategic framework designed to achieve the African Union`s goal of inclusive and sustainable development for all residents by 2063. Faced with these challenges, Africa will benefit from both improved public health and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

According to a new report published by the US-based research organization Health Effects Institute, nearly the entire African continent faces some of the most severe health impacts in the world due to air pollution, with several countries experiencing some of the highest levels of air pollution in the world (HEI).

According to a new report published by the US-based research organization Health Effects Institute, nearly the entire African continent faces some of the most severe health impacts in the world due to air pollution, with several countries experiencing some of the highest levels of air pollution in the world (HEI). The new report, The State of Air Quality and Health Impacts in Africa, provides a comprehensive analysis of major air pollution sources and related health impacts in Africa's 1.2 billion-person population. The report, released just before the United Nations` upcoming COP27 Climate Change Conference in Egypt, discovered that air pollution is the continent's second leading cause of death. Africa has five of the top ten most polluted countries in the world in terms of outdoor fine particulate matter (PM2.5). In studies of long-term air pollution exposure, outdoor PM2.5 is the most consistent predictor of deaths from cardiovascular, respiratory, and other diseases. In 2019, air pollution was responsible for an estimated 1.1 million deaths in Africa, with 63 per cent of those deaths being linked to exposure to household air pollution (HAP). Impacts of Air Pollution on Children Access to clean energy is not evenly distributed across Africa, resulting in higher disease burdens in some areas. An estimated 75 per cent of the population in East, West, Central, and Southern Africa cooks with solid fuels such as coal, wood, and charcoal, exposing residents to high concentrations of harmful pollutants at home every day. In these areas, newborns and children under the age of five are especially vulnerable to household air pollution caused by the use of solid fuels for cooking. Air pollution was responsible for 14 per cent of all deaths in Africa`s children under the age of five in 2019. The effects on newborns and infants have long-term health consequences, including issues with lung development and increased susceptibility to communicable diseases such as lower respiratory infections in young children. Caradee Wright, the Chief Specialist Scientist with the South African Medical Research Council, said, "This report gives evidence of the substantial threat air pollution poses to the health, and even life, of babies and children under the age of 5 years. This vulnerable group needs special attention to mitigate their exposures, for example, through policy and intensive awareness campaigns with practical solutions for mothers and caregivers." Air Pollution Sources Across the Continent Many of the same sources of PM2.5 found elsewhere in the world are present in Africa, including the use of solid fuels for cooking, the use of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and gas) for energy production, vehicles, industrial and semi-industrial activities such as artisanal mining, agriculture, forest fires, and open waste fire pits. Windblown dust, a natural source of air pollution, is also a major contributor to PM2.5 levels in some parts of Africa. Air pollution sources and health consequences can vary greatly across the continent. Western Africa has the highest average concentration of PM2.5 pollution at 64.1 g/m3, while Southern Africa has the lowest at 26.5 g/m3. The use of fossil fuels contributes up to 41 per cent of total outdoor PM2.5 levels in Southern Africa, but only 11 per cent in Eastern Africa. Targeted Actions are Beginning: More Needed While air pollution levels are high, African countries are implementing a variety of programs to mitigate the effects of air pollution. So far, 17 African countries have implemented national air quality policies, with many including action on air pollution sources, particularly household air pollution, as part of their country's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). In 2019, Africa had one of the world`s lowest rates of energy access, with fewer than one in every 20 people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Madagascar, Mozambique, Niger, Uganda, and Tanzania having access to clean cooking fuels. At the same time, a scarcity of ground-level air quality monitoring stations means countries are not able to accurately track their progress towards meeting air quality objectives and standards. Dr Patrick de Marie Katoto of the Catholic University of Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, said, "Air pollution greatly contributes to the rising frequency of chronic noncommunicable diseases in Africa, putting further strain on a health system already stretched by chronic infectious diseases and, more recently, COVID-19. These findings call for the African Union and member states to promote, plan, and fund air quality interventions to prevent unnecessary disabilities and deaths throughout the continent." Key Connections Between Air Pollution and Climate Africa will consider how energy transitions can be designed to be efficient, economically feasible, sustainable, and environmentally friendly as the world`s nations gather in Egypt next month for the COP27 climate meetings. This complex challenge necessitates a nuanced conversation at the intersection of energy, climate, air quality, and health. African Union countries have also adopted "Agenda 2063," a continent-wide program that lays out a strategic framework designed to achieve the African Union`s goal of inclusive and sustainable development for all residents by 2063. Faced with these challenges, Africa will benefit from both improved public health and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Over one million deaths in Africa linked to air pollution exposure: Report

The 14th edition of Africa Eco Race kicked off from Monaco and ended in Dakar Senegal despite dangers and threats from rebel groups in western Sahara Eric Njoka brings you this report.

World of Africa: Africa's Eco Race 2022 begins in Monaco

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)

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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.

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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;

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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

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