Chad's new military junta on Monday named former prime minister Albert Pahimi Padacke, who was runner-up in the Sahel country's April 11 presidential election, as interim premier.

Pahimi Padacke was the last prime minister under president Idriss Deby Itno, whose shock death in battle against northern rebels triggered the creation of a so-called Transitional Military Council (TMC) headed by his 37-year-old son, Mahamat Idriss Deby.

Deby, who himself came to power in 1990 at the head of a rebel force, had gone to the region to lead the fighting against the Libya-based Front for Change and Concord in Chad (FACT).

The military council took power last week, pledging to hold elections in 18 months.

Pahimi Padacke is to head a transitional government whose members will be named or revoked by the new junta leader, the decree said.

The younger Deby, a four-star general who previously commanded the elite Republican Guard, was named president and head of the TMC and parliament was dissolved -- a move branded an "institutional coup" by the opposition.

The junta on Sunday vowed to root out FACT leader Mahamat Mahadi Ali, accusing him of "war crimes" and seeking help from neighbouring Niger to track him down along with his fighters.

The army has "located the enemy spread out in small groups, now regrouping in Niger territory," said junta spokesman Azem Bermandoa Agouna.

Chad's new military junta on Monday named former prime minister Albert Pahimi Padacke, who was runner-up in the Sahel country's April 11 presidential election, as interim premier.

Chad's new military junta on Monday named former prime minister Albert Pahimi Padacke, who was runner-up in the Sahel country's April 11 presidential election, as interim premier. Pahimi Padacke was the last prime minister under president Idriss Deby Itno, whose shock death in battle against northern rebels triggered the creation of a so-called Transitional Military Council (TMC) headed by his 37-year-old son, Mahamat Idriss Deby. Deby, who himself came to power in 1990 at the head of a rebel force, had gone to the region to lead the fighting against the Libya-based Front for Change and Concord in Chad (FACT). The military council took power last week, pledging to hold elections in 18 months. Pahimi Padacke is to head a transitional government whose members will be named or revoked by the new junta leader, the decree said. The younger Deby, a four-star general who previously commanded the elite Republican Guard, was named president and head of the TMC and parliament was dissolved -- a move branded an "institutional coup" by the opposition. The junta on Sunday vowed to root out FACT leader Mahamat Mahadi Ali, accusing him of "war crimes" and seeking help from neighbouring Niger to track him down along with his fighters. The army has "located the enemy spread out in small groups, now regrouping in Niger territory," said junta spokesman Azem Bermandoa Agouna.

Chad junta names presidential runner-up as interim PM

Rebels in Chad who launched a major incursion into the north of the country two weeks ago and have been accused by the Chadian army of killing veteran ruler Idriss Deby Itno, are "prepared to observe a ceasefire", their chief told AFP on Saturday.

"We have affirmed our availability to observe a truce, a ceasefire... but this morning we were bombarded again", Mahamat Mahadi Ali, head of the Front for Change and Concord in Chad (FACT) said when contacted by AFP from Libreville in Gabon.&nbsp;

But Mahadi Ali warned that the ceasefire had to be observed by both sides.

"We cannot respect the truce unilaterally. A truce must be made on both sides. We will not fold our arms and let ourselves be massacred," he said.

In response, a spokesman for the military council headed by Idriss Deby's son and successor, Mahamat Idriss Deby, said: "They are rebels, which is why we are bombing them. We are waging war, that's all."&nbsp;

On Friday, Chad staged a state funeral for Idriss Deby Itno, a linchpin in the fight against the Sahel's jihadist insurgency, and France and regional allies voiced backing for Mahamat Idriss Deby.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron, in his tribute to the fallen president, said: "You lived as a soldier, you died as a soldier, weapons in your hands".

"France will never let anyone, either today or tomorrow, challenge Chad's stability and integrity," Macron pledged.

But Macron also called on the newly-appointed military government to foster "stability, inclusion, dialogue, democratic transition".

Rebels in Chad who launched a major incursion into the north of the country two weeks ago and have been accused by the Chadian army of killing veteran ruler Idriss Deby Itno, are "prepared to observe a ceasefire", their chief told AFP on Saturday.

Rebels in Chad who launched a major incursion into the north of the country two weeks ago and have been accused by the Chadian army of killing veteran ruler Idriss Deby Itno, are "prepared to observe a ceasefire", their chief told AFP on Saturday. "We have affirmed our availability to observe a truce, a ceasefire... but this morning we were bombarded again", Mahamat Mahadi Ali, head of the Front for Change and Concord in Chad (FACT) said when contacted by AFP from Libreville in Gabon. But Mahadi Ali warned that the ceasefire had to be observed by both sides. "We cannot respect the truce unilaterally. A truce must be made on both sides. We will not fold our arms and let ourselves be massacred," he said. In response, a spokesman for the military council headed by Idriss Deby's son and successor, Mahamat Idriss Deby, said: "They are rebels, which is why we are bombing them. We are waging war, that's all." On Friday, Chad staged a state funeral for Idriss Deby Itno, a linchpin in the fight against the Sahel's jihadist insurgency, and France and regional allies voiced backing for Mahamat Idriss Deby. French President Emmanuel Macron, in his tribute to the fallen president, said: "You lived as a soldier, you died as a soldier, weapons in your hands". "France will never let anyone, either today or tomorrow, challenge Chad's stability and integrity," Macron pledged. But Macron also called on the newly-appointed military government to foster "stability, inclusion, dialogue, democratic transition".

Chad rebels 'prepared to observe ceasefire', chief tells AFP

Gunshots rang out late on Friday in Somalia's capital Mogadishu, witnesses said, when government troops approached the home of the city's former police commander who was sacked for opposing a move by the president to extend his term.

The stand-off reveals splits within Somalia's security services that threaten to see forces turn on each other, creating an opportunity for the al Qaeda linked al Shabaab insurgency to exploit.

"Somalia's long-running political crisis has entered a new, dangerous phase," said the International Crisis Group, a Brussels-based think-tank, in a briefing note on Saturday.

"The opposition is said to be considering forming a parallel government; cracks have deepened in a security apparatus long divided along clan lines; and the president's opponents have vowed to resist extension of his rule."

Somalia, riven by civil war since 1991, is trying to rebuild with international help, but the path to stability has been obstructed by a political crisis caused by a failure to hold elections that were due in February.

On Monday, lawmakers extended President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed's four year term by up to two years.

The resolution passed after then Mogadishu police chief Saadaq Omar Hassan announced parliament was suspended, triggering his sacking moments later.

Hassan retreated to his house in the Shirkole area of the city, which is guarded by 100 armed men who have been reinforced by clan fighters, his family and area residents said.

Calm returned after the burst of gunfire, but some Shirkole residents held street demonstrations in support of Hassan, burning tyres and shouting slogans against the president.

"If you are attacked, you have to defend yourself," said Mahad Mohamed Salad, a pro-Hassan lawmaker.

The government denied claims it wanted to attack Hassan.

"We have no interest attacking a civilian area where most inhabitants are children and women," interior security minister Hassan Hunbdubey said in an online address late Friday.

Donors, who have opposed the president's move to extend his term, fear the crisis could abet further attacks by Islamist al Shabaab militants, who have been trying for years to topple the government.

The militants on Friday killed Mohamed Abdi Hayle, the district commissioner for Hamarjajab on the edge of Mogadishu, the state news agency reported.

They also captured the Becaadweyn area of the central state of Galmudug without resistance on Thursday, after the Somali army left the area, residents said.

Gunshots rang out late on Friday in Somalia's capital Mogadishu, witnesses said, when government troops approached the home of the city's former police commander who was sacked for opposing a move by the president to extend his term.

Gunshots rang out late on Friday in Somalia's capital Mogadishu, witnesses said, when government troops approached the home of the city's former police commander who was sacked for opposing a move by the president to extend his term. The stand-off reveals splits within Somalia's security services that threaten to see forces turn on each other, creating an opportunity for the al Qaeda linked al Shabaab insurgency to exploit. "Somalia's long-running political crisis has entered a new, dangerous phase," said the International Crisis Group, a Brussels-based think-tank, in a briefing note on Saturday. "The opposition is said to be considering forming a parallel government; cracks have deepened in a security apparatus long divided along clan lines; and the president's opponents have vowed to resist extension of his rule." Somalia, riven by civil war since 1991, is trying to rebuild with international help, but the path to stability has been obstructed by a political crisis caused by a failure to hold elections that were due in February. On Monday, lawmakers extended President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed's four year term by up to two years. The resolution passed after then Mogadishu police chief Saadaq Omar Hassan announced parliament was suspended, triggering his sacking moments later. Hassan retreated to his house in the Shirkole area of the city, which is guarded by 100 armed men who have been reinforced by clan fighters, his family and area residents said. Calm returned after the burst of gunfire, but some Shirkole residents held street demonstrations in support of Hassan, burning tyres and shouting slogans against the president. "If you are attacked, you have to defend yourself," said Mahad Mohamed Salad, a pro-Hassan lawmaker. The government denied claims it wanted to attack Hassan. "We have no interest attacking a civilian area where most inhabitants are children and women," interior security minister Hassan Hunbdubey said in an online address late Friday. Donors, who have opposed the president's move to extend his term, fear the crisis could abet further attacks by Islamist al Shabaab militants, who have been trying for years to topple the government. The militants on Friday killed Mohamed Abdi Hayle, the district commissioner for Hamarjajab on the edge of Mogadishu, the state news agency reported. They also captured the Becaadweyn area of the central state of Galmudug without resistance on Thursday, after the Somali army left the area, residents said.

Somali government troops face off with forces loyal to sacked police boss

Cape Verde, a bastion of democracy in Africa, held parliamentary polls Sunday with no clear winner in sight after a campaign dominated by the Covid pandemic and its impact on a tourism-dependent economy.

Neither of the two traditional major parties is predicted to emerge the outright winner, giving four smaller parties a chance to have their say over the group of islands off the west coast of Africa.

In the capital Praia, queues of voters began forming early in the day in front of schools serving as polling stations, AFP journalists said.

"The priority for me is to re-elect the government, fight Covid and develop the economy and tourism," said Luis Leit, 44, after voting.

With foreign tourism accounting for roughly a quarter of the economy and visitors unable to come owing to global pandemic restrictions, Cape Verde, with a population of 550,000, was plunged into a historic recession in 2020, when output shrank by 14.8 percent.

Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva nonetheless told reporters: "We are very confident. We hope to have an absolute majority."

But his Movement for Democracy (MpD) is being closely contested by the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV), a socialist party led by Janira Hopffer Almada.&nbsp;

The 42-year-old lawyer and former youth minister hopes to become the first woman to lead the former Portuguese colony.

A supporter who presented himself as a jurist named Carla told AFP he wanted Almada to fight corruption, even if the country has a good reputation in that area.

After voting, Almada complained, "the state continued campaigning yesterday", (Saturday) after the official end of electioneering on Friday, calling it a "grave violation".

Virus surge despite isolation

Both major parties pledged measures to provide wide access to Covid-19 vaccinations and to diversify the economy.

Although it lies around 600 kilometres (375 miles) off the coast of Senegal, Cape Verde has witnessed a surge in coronavirus cases.

With 189 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, the country had the highest rate in Africa according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention for the period from April 5-11.

Voting began at 0800 GMT and polling stations were scheduled to remain open until 1900 GMT, with just over 392,000 people registered to vote.

In 1990, one-party rule in Cape Verde was swept away and the first multi-party elections were held the following year.

In 2016, the MpD ended the PAICV's 15-year run with a historic victory, gaining 40 of 72 seats in the single-chamber parliament, the National Assembly.

Cape Verde has a semi-parliamentary system in which the prime minister wields executive power while the president plays the part of arbitrator in the event of intractable disputes.

Elections for the presidency take place on October 17.&nbsp;

In a continent marked by political unrest, coups or monolithic rulers who have been in power for decades, the tiny Atlantic archipelago stands out.

It ranks just behind Mauritius as the most democratic country in sub-Saharan Africa in the Economist Intelligence Unit's 2020 Democracy Index.

Cape Verde, a bastion of democracy in Africa, held parliamentary polls Sunday with no clear winner in sight after a campaign dominated by the Covid pandemic and its impact on a tourism-dependent economy.

Cape Verde, a bastion of democracy in Africa, held parliamentary polls Sunday with no clear winner in sight after a campaign dominated by the Covid pandemic and its impact on a tourism-dependent economy. Neither of the two traditional major parties is predicted to emerge the outright winner, giving four smaller parties a chance to have their say over the group of islands off the west coast of Africa. In the capital Praia, queues of voters began forming early in the day in front of schools serving as polling stations, AFP journalists said. "The priority for me is to re-elect the government, fight Covid and develop the economy and tourism," said Luis Leit, 44, after voting. With foreign tourism accounting for roughly a quarter of the economy and visitors unable to come owing to global pandemic restrictions, Cape Verde, with a population of 550,000, was plunged into a historic recession in 2020, when output shrank by 14.8 percent. Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva nonetheless told reporters: "We are very confident. We hope to have an absolute majority." But his Movement for Democracy (MpD) is being closely contested by the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV), a socialist party led by Janira Hopffer Almada. The 42-year-old lawyer and former youth minister hopes to become the first woman to lead the former Portuguese colony. A supporter who presented himself as a jurist named Carla told AFP he wanted Almada to fight corruption, even if the country has a good reputation in that area. After voting, Almada complained, "the state continued campaigning yesterday", (Saturday) after the official end of electioneering on Friday, calling it a "grave violation". Virus surge despite isolation Both major parties pledged measures to provide wide access to Covid-19 vaccinations and to diversify the economy. Although it lies around 600 kilometres (375 miles) off the coast of Senegal, Cape Verde has witnessed a surge in coronavirus cases. With 189 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, the country had the highest rate in Africa according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention for the period from April 5-11. Voting began at 0800 GMT and polling stations were scheduled to remain open until 1900 GMT, with just over 392,000 people registered to vote. In 1990, one-party rule in Cape Verde was swept away and the first multi-party elections were held the following year. In 2016, the MpD ended the PAICV's 15-year run with a historic victory, gaining 40 of 72 seats in the single-chamber parliament, the National Assembly. Cape Verde has a semi-parliamentary system in which the prime minister wields executive power while the president plays the part of arbitrator in the event of intractable disputes. Elections for the presidency take place on October 17. In a continent marked by political unrest, coups or monolithic rulers who have been in power for decades, the tiny Atlantic archipelago stands out. It ranks just behind Mauritius as the most democratic country in sub-Saharan Africa in the Economist Intelligence Unit's 2020 Democracy Index.

Voters go to the polls in Cape Verde, Africa's model of democracy

An Egyptian court Sunday sentenced a man to eight years in prison for sexually harassing three minors and drug possession, in a case that sparked outrage on social media.

Ahmed Bassam Zaki, a former student of some of Egypt's most elite schools and the American University in Cairo, was sentenced to seven years in jail for sexually harassing three underage girls and one year for drug possession, a judicial source said.

He can appeal the verdict, the source added.

Zaki, who is in his 20s, had already been sentenced in December to three years in prison for sexually harassing two young women by Egypt's economic court, which tries cyber crimes.

The court found he had sent sexual photos to one of the women and repeatedly contacted the other without her consent.

Claims against Zaki emerged online last year in the form of testimonies -- many from classmates -- published by the Instagram account Assault Police.

They included an alleged rape and dozens of instances of assault against girls and women, some involving blackmail.

Zaki was arrested on July 4 and confessed to assaulting and blackmailing six complainants, one of whom was a minor.

The case revived a #MeToo campaign in Egypt, where women complain of rampant sexual harassment, a criminal offence since 2014.

United Nations surveys say most women in the conservative country have been subject to harassment ranging from catcalling to pinching and groping or worse.

An Egyptian court Sunday sentenced a man to eight years in prison for sexually harassing three minors and drug possession, in a case that sparked outrage on social media.

An Egyptian court Sunday sentenced a man to eight years in prison for sexually harassing three minors and drug possession, in a case that sparked outrage on social media. Ahmed Bassam Zaki, a former student of some of Egypt's most elite schools and the American University in Cairo, was sentenced to seven years in jail for sexually harassing three underage girls and one year for drug possession, a judicial source said. He can appeal the verdict, the source added. Zaki, who is in his 20s, had already been sentenced in December to three years in prison for sexually harassing two young women by Egypt's economic court, which tries cyber crimes. The court found he had sent sexual photos to one of the women and repeatedly contacted the other without her consent. Claims against Zaki emerged online last year in the form of testimonies -- many from classmates -- published by the Instagram account Assault Police. They included an alleged rape and dozens of instances of assault against girls and women, some involving blackmail. Zaki was arrested on July 4 and confessed to assaulting and blackmailing six complainants, one of whom was a minor. The case revived a #MeToo campaign in Egypt, where women complain of rampant sexual harassment, a criminal offence since 2014. United Nations surveys say most women in the conservative country have been subject to harassment ranging from catcalling to pinching and groping or worse.

Egypt jails man for 8 years in #MeToo case

Djibouti's veteran ruler Ismail Omar Guelleh said Friday he was "very confident" of securing a fifth term as president as voters went to the polls in the tiny but strategically important African nation.

Some 215,000 citizens are registered to vote in the ballot pitting Guelleh, 73, against a little-known businessman widely seen as posing scant threat to the strongman, in power since 1999.

Polling stations opened at 6:00 am (0300 GMT) across the arid Horn of Africa nation, which overlooks one of the world's busiest trade routes at the crossroads between Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.

After voting in the capital city, where most of Djibouti's one million people reside, Guelleh said he was "very, very confident" of victory and praised the trouble-free conduct of the electoral exercise.

"Now, we wait for the results," said the president, dressed in immaculate white traditional robes, after placing his vote in a transparent ballot box.

Voting closes at 7:00 pm and the results are expected by the evening.

Independent election observers said the process was rolling out smoothly, with no reports of misconduct, although polling stations noted that voters were in no particular rush to cast their ballots.

"So far, everything is going well and is calm," Ahmed Tidiane Souare, the head of an African Union (AU) observer mission, told reporters.

'My vote is useless'

Guelleh was the handpicked successor to his relative Hassan Gouled Aptidon, the country's first president after independence from France in 1977.

He faces just one challenger -- political newcomer Zakaria Ismail Farah -- after Djibouti's main opposition parties boycotted the election.

Farah, a 56-year-old cleaning products importer, cast doubt on the transparency of the voting process, saying his delegates were not present at polling stations.

"My vote is of no use, nor are the votes of 80 percent of the Djiboutian people," the opposition candidate told AFP in a text message. 
 
Souare, from the observer mission, said all candidates were free to send their officials to any polling station.&nbsp;

Farah, who had styled himself as the "flag bearer of poor Djiboutians", had alleged unfair treatment during the election campaign, including that he was not provided security at his rallies.

Guelleh, and his extended family, have controlled Djibouti with an iron fist since he was handed power. A rare wave of opposition protests in 2020 were brutally suppressed.

His predicted fifth term will be his last, under a 2010 constitutional reform that scrapped term limits while introducing an age limit of 75, which would lock him out of future elections.

Guelleh has clinched at least 75 percent of the vote in every presidential election he has contested, and urged voters to turn out in large numbers.

"I am always the first to vote. I am a Djiboutian, I have to vote," said 64-year-old Ahmed Abdillah Hadi after casting his ballot.

"I am with President Ismail. I voted for him, I love him."

The vote proceeded despite a surge in Covid-19 cases and infection rates, and few wore face masks as they

cheered Guelleh at a crowded final rally this week.

Stable and strategic

Under Guelleh, the country has exploited its geographical advantage, investing heavily in ports and logistics infrastructure.&nbsp;

In 2018, seeking to become a trade and logistics hub, the country launched the first phase of what will be Africa's biggest free-trade zone, financed by China.

Flanked by Somalia and opposite Yemen, Djibouti has remained stable in a volatile neighbourhood, drawing foreign military powers such as former colonial ruler France, the United States and China to establish bases there.

But the country has also seen an erosion of press freedom and a crackdown on dissent as it has courted foreign interest.

The country's economy shrank by one percent in 2020, but is expected to grow seven percent this year, according to the International Monetary Fund.

Djibouti's GDP per capita income is about $3,500, higher than much of sub-Saharan Africa, but some 20 percent of the population lives in extreme poverty and 26 percent are unemployed, according to the World Bank.

Djibouti's veteran ruler Ismail Omar Guelleh said Friday he was "very confident" of securing a fifth term as president as voters went to the polls in the tiny but strategically important African nation.

Djibouti's veteran ruler Ismail Omar Guelleh said Friday he was "very confident" of securing a fifth term as president as voters went to the polls in the tiny but strategically important African nation. Some 215,000 citizens are registered to vote in the ballot pitting Guelleh, 73, against a little-known businessman widely seen as posing scant threat to the strongman, in power since 1999. Polling stations opened at 6:00 am (0300 GMT) across the arid Horn of Africa nation, which overlooks one of the world's busiest trade routes at the crossroads between Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. After voting in the capital city, where most of Djibouti's one million people reside, Guelleh said he was "very, very confident" of victory and praised the trouble-free conduct of the electoral exercise. "Now, we wait for the results," said the president, dressed in immaculate white traditional robes, after placing his vote in a transparent ballot box. Voting closes at 7:00 pm and the results are expected by the evening. Independent election observers said the process was rolling out smoothly, with no reports of misconduct, although polling stations noted that voters were in no particular rush to cast their ballots. "So far, everything is going well and is calm," Ahmed Tidiane Souare, the head of an African Union (AU) observer mission, told reporters. 'My vote is useless' Guelleh was the handpicked successor to his relative Hassan Gouled Aptidon, the country's first president after independence from France in 1977. He faces just one challenger -- political newcomer Zakaria Ismail Farah -- after Djibouti's main opposition parties boycotted the election. Farah, a 56-year-old cleaning products importer, cast doubt on the transparency of the voting process, saying his delegates were not present at polling stations. "My vote is of no use, nor are the votes of 80 percent of the Djiboutian people," the opposition candidate told AFP in a text message. Souare, from the observer mission, said all candidates were free to send their officials to any polling station. Farah, who had styled himself as the "flag bearer of poor Djiboutians", had alleged unfair treatment during the election campaign, including that he was not provided security at his rallies. Guelleh, and his extended family, have controlled Djibouti with an iron fist since he was handed power. A rare wave of opposition protests in 2020 were brutally suppressed. His predicted fifth term will be his last, under a 2010 constitutional reform that scrapped term limits while introducing an age limit of 75, which would lock him out of future elections. Guelleh has clinched at least 75 percent of the vote in every presidential election he has contested, and urged voters to turn out in large numbers. "I am always the first to vote. I am a Djiboutian, I have to vote," said 64-year-old Ahmed Abdillah Hadi after casting his ballot. "I am with President Ismail. I voted for him, I love him." The vote proceeded despite a surge in Covid-19 cases and infection rates, and few wore face masks as they cheered Guelleh at a crowded final rally this week. Stable and strategic Under Guelleh, the country has exploited its geographical advantage, investing heavily in ports and logistics infrastructure. In 2018, seeking to become a trade and logistics hub, the country launched the first phase of what will be Africa's biggest free-trade zone, financed by China. Flanked by Somalia and opposite Yemen, Djibouti has remained stable in a volatile neighbourhood, drawing foreign military powers such as former colonial ruler France, the United States and China to establish bases there. But the country has also seen an erosion of press freedom and a crackdown on dissent as it has courted foreign interest. The country's economy shrank by one percent in 2020, but is expected to grow seven percent this year, according to the International Monetary Fund. Djibouti's GDP per capita income is about $3,500, higher than much of sub-Saharan Africa, but some 20 percent of the population lives in extreme poverty and 26 percent are unemployed, according to the World Bank.

Veteran ruler Guelleh confident of victory as Djibouti votes

At least 20 people were killed and 24 others were injured in a clothing factory in Egypt on Thursday. The factory is located on the eastern outskirts of Egyptian capital Cairo, as per reports. The cause of the fire was not immediately clear. Twelve fire trucks were dispatched to extinguish the fire, said AFP quoting sources.

Egypt has had a string of fires in recent years, as shoddy buildings have been constructed without safety standards amid a security vacuum following its 2011 revolution.

Last month, a fire in an unlicensed shoe warehouse in the capital's twin city Giza engulfed a 13-storey building overlooking a major highway. Residents were evacuated but no casualties were reported.

In 2020, a major fire broke out next to a busy Cairo highway as a leak from an oil pipeline set ablaze by passing cars left 17 people hurt.

(With AFP inputs)

At least 20 people were killed and 24 others were injured in a clothing factory in Egypt on Thursday. The factory is located on the eastern outskirts of Egyptian capital Cairo, as per reports.

At least 20 people were killed and 24 others were injured in a clothing factory in Egypt on Thursday. The factory is located on the eastern outskirts of Egyptian capital Cairo, as per reports. The cause of the fire was not immediately clear. Twelve fire trucks were dispatched to extinguish the fire, said AFP quoting sources. Egypt has had a string of fires in recent years, as shoddy buildings have been constructed without safety standards amid a security vacuum following its 2011 revolution. Last month, a fire in an unlicensed shoe warehouse in the capital's twin city Giza engulfed a 13-storey building overlooking a major highway. Residents were evacuated but no casualties were reported. In 2020, a major fire broke out next to a busy Cairo highway as a leak from an oil pipeline set ablaze by passing cars left 17 people hurt. (With AFP inputs)

Egypt: At least 20 killed in clothing factory fire

More than 200,000 people have fled Central African Republic to escape form the violence, said UN refugee agency UNHCR. Nearly half of those who escaped crossed border into Democratic Republic of Congo. CAR has been marred by violence over December election result.&nbsp;

The CAR army, backed by UN, Russian and Rwandan troops, has been battling rebels seeking to overturn a Dec. 27 vote in which President Faustin-Archange Touadera was declared the winner.

"Refugees have told UNHCR that they fled in panic when they heard gun shots, leaving their belongings behind," spokesman Boris Cheshirkov told journalists in Geneva

Central African Republic has struggled to find stability since 2013 rebellion that ousted former president Francois Bozize

Former prime minister Martin Ziguele, who came third in the Dec. 27 election, said on Friday there was fighting across the country every day, preventing movement between towns, and pushing more people to flee.

"Everyone is focused on the main transport route between the capital and eastern Cameroon for supplies, but inside the country, there is no movement," Ziguele told Reuters by phone from Bangui.

"I cannot leave Bangui and go 90 km (60 miles) without a heavily-armed army escort. Imagine then the population. Add the curfew and the state of emergency, it is really an apocalyptic situation," Ziguele said.

In a statement on Friday, the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region, a regional body of 12 member states, called for a ceasefire and urged armed groups to "disengage from the encirclement of Bangui" and allow people and goods to move freely.

The body will also ask the United Nations Security Council to lift an arms embargo imposed on CAR that has restricted the flow of weapons to the army since 2013.

(With AFP inputs)

More than 200,000 people have fled Central African Republic to escape form the violence, said UN refugee agency UNHCR. Nearly half of those who escaped crossed border into Democratic Republic of Congo.

More than 200,000 people have fled Central African Republic to escape form the violence, said UN refugee agency UNHCR. Nearly half of those who escaped crossed border into Democratic Republic of Congo. CAR has been marred by violence over December election result. The CAR army, backed by UN, Russian and Rwandan troops, has been battling rebels seeking to overturn a Dec. 27 vote in which President Faustin-Archange Touadera was declared the winner. "Refugees have told UNHCR that they fled in panic when they heard gun shots, leaving their belongings behind," spokesman Boris Cheshirkov told journalists in Geneva Central African Republic has struggled to find stability since 2013 rebellion that ousted former president Francois Bozize Former prime minister Martin Ziguele, who came third in the Dec. 27 election, said on Friday there was fighting across the country every day, preventing movement between towns, and pushing more people to flee. "Everyone is focused on the main transport route between the capital and eastern Cameroon for supplies, but inside the country, there is no movement," Ziguele told Reuters by phone from Bangui. "I cannot leave Bangui and go 90 km (60 miles) without a heavily-armed army escort. Imagine then the population. Add the curfew and the state of emergency, it is really an apocalyptic situation," Ziguele said. In a statement on Friday, the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region, a regional body of 12 member states, called for a ceasefire and urged armed groups to "disengage from the encirclement of Bangui" and allow people and goods to move freely. The body will also ask the United Nations Security Council to lift an arms embargo imposed on CAR that has restricted the flow of weapons to the army since 2013. (With AFP inputs)

More than 200,000 people flee CAR violence

France is understood to be considering to exit Mali, the country in which it sent troops to prevent jihadists from taking over. It faces tough choices over how to keep pursuing Islamist extremists without becoming bogged down in a potentially unwinnable war.

In past 10 days, five French soldiers have been killed in roadside bombs. This brought to 50 the number of troops killed across the Sahel since France launched a campaign to clear northern Mali of jihadists in January 2013

Latest victims included Sergeant Yvonne Huynh, the first female soldier killed since the French intervention began. 
Her death Saturday, claimed by a group linked to al-Qaeda, coincided with a massacre across the border in western Niger, where unidentified gunmen killed around 100 villagers in one of the region's worst atrocities.

Shifting public mood

In the past year, the French have killed the leader of the notorious al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb group, Abdelmalek Droukdel, as well as one of the military leaders of the al-Qaeda affiliated Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM).

Anxious to avoid becoming mired in a long Afghan-style conflict, Paris is preparing to announce a withdrawal of the 600 additional troops it deployed to the Sahel last year.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-massive-rave-party-with-little-social-distancing-causes-concern-353915">France: Massive rave party with little social distancing causes concern</a> 
 
Defence sources have told AFP that President Emmanuel Macron would like to go further in reducing the number of French troops in the Sahel region before the next presidential election in April/May 2022.

"Up until now the French have not really questioned France's role in the Sahel. But you have to be very careful. Public opinion can change very quickly," a government source told AFP.

Buying time

In a sign that the Sahel mission could become a domestic political football, some opposition politicians have already begun to question the wisdom of staying the course.

"War in Mali: for how much longer?" the hard-left France Unbowed party queried on Monday.

"The more we help Mali the more it collapses," said Marc-Antoine Perouse de Montclos of France's Institute of Development Research (IRD).

(With AFP inputs)

France is understood to be considering to exit Mali, the country in which it sent troops to prevent jihadists from taking over. It faces tough choices over how to keep pursuing Islamist extremists without becoming bogged down in a potentially unwinnable war.

France is understood to be considering to exit Mali, the country in which it sent troops to prevent jihadists from taking over. It faces tough choices over how to keep pursuing Islamist extremists without becoming bogged down in a potentially unwinnable war. In past 10 days, five French soldiers have been killed in roadside bombs. This brought to 50 the number of troops killed across the Sahel since France launched a campaign to clear northern Mali of jihadists in January 2013 Latest victims included Sergeant Yvonne Huynh, the first female soldier killed since the French intervention began. Her death Saturday, claimed by a group linked to al-Qaeda, coincided with a massacre across the border in western Niger, where unidentified gunmen killed around 100 villagers in one of the region's worst atrocities. Shifting public mood In the past year, the French have killed the leader of the notorious al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb group, Abdelmalek Droukdel, as well as one of the military leaders of the al-Qaeda affiliated Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM). Anxious to avoid becoming mired in a long Afghan-style conflict, Paris is preparing to announce a withdrawal of the 600 additional troops it deployed to the Sahel last year. Also Read | France: Massive rave party with little social distancing causes concern Defence sources have told AFP that President Emmanuel Macron would like to go further in reducing the number of French troops in the Sahel region before the next presidential election in April/May 2022. "Up until now the French have not really questioned France's role in the Sahel. But you have to be very careful. Public opinion can change very quickly," a government source told AFP. Buying time In a sign that the Sahel mission could become a domestic political football, some opposition politicians have already begun to question the wisdom of staying the course. "War in Mali: for how much longer?" the hard-left France Unbowed party queried on Monday. "The more we help Mali the more it collapses," said Marc-Antoine Perouse de Montclos of France's Institute of Development Research (IRD). (With AFP inputs)

France seeks exit strategy from Mali after eight-year campaign

Polling booths across Niger saw queues of voters who are voting in an election that will mark first peaceful transition of power since Niger's independence. The elections are taking place in the shadow of Jihadist attacks. Niger gained independence from France 60 years ago but the politics has been marred by numerous coups.

Around 7.4 million people are registered to vote for the ballot for presidency, which coincides with legislative elections. Niger is ranked as the world's poorest country as per United Nations Human Development Index.

"I expect the Nigerien president to put security, health, progress and democracy first," Aboubakar Saleh, a 37-year-old launderer, told AFP in Niamey without revealing who he voted for.

Issaka Soumana, a 52-year-old lorry driver, said he wanted change.

"Niger is not moving forward. Our country must rise," he said, brandishing his thumb stained with ink to show he had cast his ballot.

Niger's incumbent President Mahamadou Issoufou was elected in 2011 after a coup in 2010. He has agreed to step down after two successive terms.

The frontrunner in the 30-strong field is his designated successor, Mohamed Bazoum, 60, a former interior and foreign minister.
<img alt="Niger's presidential candidate Mohamed Bazoum leaves the polling station after casting his ballot in Niamey on December 27, 2020 during Niger's presidential and legislative elections" data-caption="Niger's presidential candidate Mohamed Bazoum leaves the polling station after casting his ballot in Niamey on December 27, 2020 during Niger's presidential and legislative elections" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bb6a7b2f-9a83-4c5c-aa2d-11a5b2823771" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8XT92K.jpg" />
"It is a great pride that this date of December 27 has been respected," Bazoum said after voting.

Bazoum's main rival, former prime minister Hama Amadou, was barred from contesting the vote on the grounds that in 2017 he was handed a 12-month jail term for baby trafficking -- a charge he says was bogus.

The polling stations will close at 1800 GMT on Sunday, December 27. Partial results will be announced on Monday while full results will be available on Wednesday and Thursday.
<img alt="Niger election" data-caption="A Nigerien soldier stands guard as Niger's outgoing president Mahamadou Issoufou arrives at a polling station in Niamey on December 27, 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="419172b9-037a-411f-bb4f-1e7918068d5e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8XT926.jpg" />
Niger has borne burnt of Jihadist violence on its southwestern border with Mali, and its southeastern frontier with Nigeria.

A jihadist insurgency that has spilt across borders in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger claimed some 4,000 lives last year from jihadist violence and ethnic bloodshed stirred by Islamists, according to the UN.

In Niger itself, hundreds have died in the past five years, and hundreds of thousands have fled their homes.

(With AFP inputs)

Polling booths across Niger saw queues of voters who are voting in an election that will mark first peaceful transition of power since Niger's independence. The elections are taking place in the shadow of Jihadist attacks.

Polling booths across Niger saw queues of voters who are voting in an election that will mark first peaceful transition of power since Niger's independence. The elections are taking place in the shadow of Jihadist attacks. Niger gained independence from France 60 years ago but the politics has been marred by numerous coups. Around 7.4 million people are registered to vote for the ballot for presidency, which coincides with legislative elections. Niger is ranked as the world's poorest country as per United Nations Human Development Index. "I expect the Nigerien president to put security, health, progress and democracy first," Aboubakar Saleh, a 37-year-old launderer, told AFP in Niamey without revealing who he voted for. Issaka Soumana, a 52-year-old lorry driver, said he wanted change. "Niger is not moving forward. Our country must rise," he said, brandishing his thumb stained with ink to show he had cast his ballot. Niger's incumbent President Mahamadou Issoufou was elected in 2011 after a coup in 2010. He has agreed to step down after two successive terms. The frontrunner in the 30-strong field is his designated successor, Mohamed Bazoum, 60, a former interior and foreign minister. "It is a great pride that this date of December 27 has been respected," Bazoum said after voting. Bazoum's main rival, former prime minister Hama Amadou, was barred from contesting the vote on the grounds that in 2017 he was handed a 12-month jail term for baby trafficking -- a charge he says was bogus. The polling stations will close at 1800 GMT on Sunday, December 27. Partial results will be announced on Monday while full results will be available on Wednesday and Thursday. Niger has borne burnt of Jihadist violence on its southwestern border with Mali, and its southeastern frontier with Nigeria. A jihadist insurgency that has spilt across borders in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger claimed some 4,000 lives last year from jihadist violence and ethnic bloodshed stirred by Islamists, according to the UN. In Niger itself, hundreds have died in the past five years, and hundreds of thousands have fled their homes. (With AFP inputs)

Niger citizens vote in a historic election

Countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Mauritania, Ghana and Ivory Coast have seen a sharp rise in cases and are reporting near record levels of infection.

Africa crosses 2.5 million COVID-19 cases as it witnesses second wave of infections

Nigerian authorities on Sunday stepped up efforts to rescue students abducted by armed men who raided their hostels.

UN children agency UNICEF condemned the assault on the school in Katsina. the home state of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Gunmen on motorcycles stormed the Government Science School at Kankara late on Friday and engaged security forces in a fierce gunbattle, forcing hundreds of students to flee and hide in surrounding bushes and forest.

State governor Aminu Bello Masari who visited the school on Saturday said soldiers were working to locate and free the hostages.

"Soldiers are currently in the bushes fighting the bandits. We will do all we can to ensure all the abducted children are reclaimed," he said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boko-haram-jihadists-kill-27-in-attack-in-niger-349563">Boko Haram Jihadists kill 27 in attack in Niger</a>

National police spokesman Frank Mbas said "additional operational and investigative assets to support the ongoing search and rescue operations in Kankara," had been deployed.

Masari said it was still not clear how many students were "in the hands of the bandits" and how many had managed to escape.

"The school has a population of 839 and so far, we are yet to account for 333 students," Masari told a federal government delegation in his office on Sunday.

"We are still counting because more are still coming out of the forest," said the governor.

"Up till this moment, no one can give a precise figure of the children abducted", he said, adding that students who escaped confirmed some of their colleagues were taken.

Masari directed the school to take a headcount of the students to determine those who went back home.&nbsp;

'Cowardly bandits'

Osama Aminu Maale was one of the students who escaped the abductors and returned to his parents.

"There were a total of 520 of us that were taken by the gunmen from the school," the 18-year old student, told AFP on the phone.&nbsp;

"After they took us away we stopped inside the bus where they made the older students take a headcount. We counted 520," he said.&nbsp;

The hostages were split into groups and before Maale and four others escaped.

"One of the gunmen hit me repeatedly when I failed to keep up with the rest of the group due to my failing health before he let me trail behind, giving me the chance to escape", he said.

Since the attack, all secondary schools in the state have been shut.

UNICEF in a statement on Sunday said it "condemns in the strongest possible terms this brutal attack and calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all children and their return to their families".

The global children body said it was "deeply concerned about these acts of violence."

"Attacks on schools are a violation of children’s rights. This is a grim reminder that abductions of children and widespread grave violations of children’s rights continue to take place in northern Nigeria."

UNICEF however commended the Nigerian government for deploying security forces to rescue the students.

Buhari on Saturday urged security forces to arrest the gunmen.

"I strongly condemn the cowardly bandits' attack on innocent children at the Science School, Kankara. Our prayers are with the families of the students, the school authorities and the injured," he said.

Katsina is among several areas in northwest Nigeria that have been repeatedly attacked by "bandits" who kidnap for ransom and rustle cattle.

Nigerian authorities on Sunday stepped up efforts to rescue students abducted by armed men who raided their hostels. UN children agency UNICEF condemned the assault on the school in Katsina.

Nigerian authorities on Sunday stepped up efforts to rescue students abducted by armed men who raided their hostels. UN children agency UNICEF condemned the assault on the school in Katsina. the home state of President Muhammadu Buhari. Gunmen on motorcycles stormed the Government Science School at Kankara late on Friday and engaged security forces in a fierce gunbattle, forcing hundreds of students to flee and hide in surrounding bushes and forest. State governor Aminu Bello Masari who visited the school on Saturday said soldiers were working to locate and free the hostages. "Soldiers are currently in the bushes fighting the bandits. We will do all we can to ensure all the abducted children are reclaimed," he said. Also Read | Boko Haram Jihadists kill 27 in attack in Niger National police spokesman Frank Mbas said "additional operational and investigative assets to support the ongoing search and rescue operations in Kankara," had been deployed. Masari said it was still not clear how many students were "in the hands of the bandits" and how many had managed to escape. "The school has a population of 839 and so far, we are yet to account for 333 students," Masari told a federal government delegation in his office on Sunday. "We are still counting because more are still coming out of the forest," said the governor. "Up till this moment, no one can give a precise figure of the children abducted", he said, adding that students who escaped confirmed some of their colleagues were taken. Masari directed the school to take a headcount of the students to determine those who went back home. 'Cowardly bandits' Osama Aminu Maale was one of the students who escaped the abductors and returned to his parents. "There were a total of 520 of us that were taken by the gunmen from the school," the 18-year old student, told AFP on the phone. "After they took us away we stopped inside the bus where they made the older students take a headcount. We counted 520," he said. The hostages were split into groups and before Maale and four others escaped. "One of the gunmen hit me repeatedly when I failed to keep up with the rest of the group due to my failing health before he let me trail behind, giving me the chance to escape", he said. Since the attack, all secondary schools in the state have been shut. UNICEF in a statement on Sunday said it "condemns in the strongest possible terms this brutal attack and calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all children and their return to their families". The global children body said it was "deeply concerned about these acts of violence." "Attacks on schools are a violation of children’s rights. This is a grim reminder that abductions of children and widespread grave violations of children’s rights continue to take place in northern Nigeria." UNICEF however commended the Nigerian government for deploying security forces to rescue the students. Buhari on Saturday urged security forces to arrest the gunmen. "I strongly condemn the cowardly bandits' attack on innocent children at the Science School, Kankara. Our prayers are with the families of the students, the school authorities and the injured," he said. Katsina is among several areas in northwest Nigeria that have been repeatedly attacked by "bandits" who kidnap for ransom and rustle cattle.

Nigeria steps up rescue efforts for abducted students

Botswana, home to nearly half of Africa’s wild elephants, is preparing to repatriate thousands of the giant mammals to neighboring Angola to reduce overpopulation and conflict with farmers

Botswana to repatriate elephants to Angola to reduce overpopulation

This will allow the first food, medicines and other aid into the region of 6 million people that has seen rising hunger during the fighting between the federal and Tigray regional governments.

UN, Ethiopia sign deal for aid access to embattled Tigray

Ethiopia has granted United Nations access to conflict-hit Tigray region. This will allow the first food, medicines and other aid into the region of 6 million people that has seen rising hunger during the fighting between the federal and Tigray regional governments.

WION Dispatch: UN to access the govt controlled conflict-hit Tigray region

At least 110 people have been killed in an attack on a village in north-east Nigeria blamed on the Boko Haram jihadist group

At least 110 dead in Nigeria after suspected Boko Haram attack

A horrific attack blamed on Boko Haram jihadist group has claimed 110 lives in northeast Nigeria, said the United Nations. UN's humanitarian coordinator said that this was the "most violent direct attack against innocent civilians this year". The attack took in Koshobe, a village near the main city of Maiduguri. The attackers targetted rice field farmers. The tragedy took place on Saturday (November 28)

"At least 110 civilians were ruthlessly killed and many others were wounded in this attack," UN's Edward Kallon said in a statement after initial tolls indicated 43 and then at least 70 dead from Saturday's massacre by suspected Boko Haram fighters.

"The incident is the most violent direct attack against innocent civilians this year," Kallon said, adding: "I call for the perpetrators of this heinous and senseless act to be brought to justice."

Borno Governor Babaganan Umara Zulum attended the burial Sunday in the nearby village of Zabarmari of 43 bodies recovered on Saturday, saying the toll could rise after search operations resumed.

According to a pro-government anti-jihadist media, the attackers tied up agricultural workers and slit their throats.

The victims were among labourers from Sokoto state in northwestern Nigeria, roughly 1,000 kilometres (600 miles) away, who had travelled to the northeast to find work, it said.&nbsp;

Six were wounded in the attack and eight remained missing as of Saturday.&nbsp;

Kallon, citing "reports that several women may have been kidnapped", called for their immediate release and return to safety.

Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari condemned the attack, saying: "The entire country has been wounded by these senseless killings."

The attack took place as voters went to the polls in long-delayed local elections in Borno State. 
The polls had been repeatedly postponed because of an increase in attacks by Boko Haram and a rival dissident faction, ISWAP.

The two groups have been blamed for increasing attacks on loggers, farmers and fishermen whom they accuse of spying for the army and pro-government militias.&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)

A horrific attack blamed on Boko Haram jihadist group has claimed 110 lives in northeast Nigeria, said the United Nations. UN's humanitarian coordinator said that this was the "most violent direct attack against innocent civilians this year".

A horrific attack blamed on Boko Haram jihadist group has claimed 110 lives in northeast Nigeria, said the United Nations. UN's humanitarian coordinator said that this was the "most violent direct attack against innocent civilians this year". The attack took in Koshobe, a village near the main city of Maiduguri. The attackers targetted rice field farmers. The tragedy took place on Saturday (November 28) "At least 110 civilians were ruthlessly killed and many others were wounded in this attack," UN's Edward Kallon said in a statement after initial tolls indicated 43 and then at least 70 dead from Saturday's massacre by suspected Boko Haram fighters. "The incident is the most violent direct attack against innocent civilians this year," Kallon said, adding: "I call for the perpetrators of this heinous and senseless act to be brought to justice." Borno Governor Babaganan Umara Zulum attended the burial Sunday in the nearby village of Zabarmari of 43 bodies recovered on Saturday, saying the toll could rise after search operations resumed. According to a pro-government anti-jihadist media, the attackers tied up agricultural workers and slit their throats. The victims were among labourers from Sokoto state in northwestern Nigeria, roughly 1,000 kilometres (600 miles) away, who had travelled to the northeast to find work, it said. Six were wounded in the attack and eight remained missing as of Saturday. Kallon, citing "reports that several women may have been kidnapped", called for their immediate release and return to safety. Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari condemned the attack, saying: "The entire country has been wounded by these senseless killings." The attack took place as voters went to the polls in long-delayed local elections in Borno State. The polls had been repeatedly postponed because of an increase in attacks by Boko Haram and a rival dissident faction, ISWAP. The two groups have been blamed for increasing attacks on loggers, farmers and fishermen whom they accuse of spying for the army and pro-government militias. (With AFP inputs)

Nigeria attack blamed on jihadists claims 110 lives

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed replaced his army chief on Sunday and elevated deputy army chief to his position. The move came as the country fought its own Tigray region. The five-day conflict has seen number of wounded soldiers continuously increase. Abiy's office did not specify any reason for the latest move and only said that Deputy Army Chief Berhanu Jula will take over as army chief from his predecessor General Adem Mohammed. No announcement has been as of now as to in what capacity General Mohammed will serve the army.

The announcement came as a medical official told AFP that nearly 100 government soldiers had been treated for gunshot wounds at a hospital in the northern Amhara region, the latest indication that fighting has been intense.&nbsp;

Abiy and military leaders have touted Ethiopian soldiers' successes against forces loyal to the Tigray ruling party, but a communications blackout in the region has made their accounts difficult to verify.

On roads in the northern part of Ethiopia's Amhara region, ambulances can frequently be seen ferrying wounded combatants to hospitals. 
In the town of Sanja, 98 government soldiers have been treated for "gunfire" injuries, a doctor told AFP.

"We have had 98 cases. All of them are soldiers from the national army," said the doctor, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

He said there were no fatalities at the hospital, but noted more serious cases have been transported to larger hospitals in the city of Gondar and elsewhere.

Reports of dead and wounded soldiers have mounted in recent days in Amhara, where a humanitarian aid worker said three died and 35 were treated on Saturday. On Friday 105 were reported injured and five killed in the region.

There are growing fears that Ethiopia will soon witness a civil war between the government forces and Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), the ruling party of the Tigray region.

Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed, the winner of last year's Nobel peace prize, sent federal troops and aircraft into Tigray in a major escalation of a long-running feud.

Sunday's reshuffle also saw new appointments for deputy army chief, foreign minister and federal police commissioner, while the president of Amhara was transferred to head Ethiopia's intelligence service.

No reason was given for those changes either.&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed replaced his army chief on Sunday and elevated deputy army chief to his position. The move came as the country fought its own Tigray region.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed replaced his army chief on Sunday and elevated deputy army chief to his position. The move came as the country fought its own Tigray region. The five-day conflict has seen number of wounded soldiers continuously increase. Abiy's office did not specify any reason for the latest move and only said that Deputy Army Chief Berhanu Jula will take over as army chief from his predecessor General Adem Mohammed. No announcement has been as of now as to in what capacity General Mohammed will serve the army. The announcement came as a medical official told AFP that nearly 100 government soldiers had been treated for gunshot wounds at a hospital in the northern Amhara region, the latest indication that fighting has been intense. Abiy and military leaders have touted Ethiopian soldiers' successes against forces loyal to the Tigray ruling party, but a communications blackout in the region has made their accounts difficult to verify. On roads in the northern part of Ethiopia's Amhara region, ambulances can frequently be seen ferrying wounded combatants to hospitals. In the town of Sanja, 98 government soldiers have been treated for "gunfire" injuries, a doctor told AFP. "We have had 98 cases. All of them are soldiers from the national army," said the doctor, who spoke on condition of anonymity. He said there were no fatalities at the hospital, but noted more serious cases have been transported to larger hospitals in the city of Gondar and elsewhere. Reports of dead and wounded soldiers have mounted in recent days in Amhara, where a humanitarian aid worker said three died and 35 were treated on Saturday. On Friday 105 were reported injured and five killed in the region. There are growing fears that Ethiopia will soon witness a civil war between the government forces and Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), the ruling party of the Tigray region. Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed, the winner of last year's Nobel peace prize, sent federal troops and aircraft into Tigray in a major escalation of a long-running feud. Sunday's reshuffle also saw new appointments for deputy army chief, foreign minister and federal police commissioner, while the president of Amhara was transferred to head Ethiopia's intelligence service. No reason was given for those changes either. (With AFP inputs)

Ethiopia PM replaces army chief amid conflict with Tigray region

It was unclear if the attack was linked to a continuing struggle between the army and groups seeking to form a breakaway state called Ambazonia in the English-speaking west.

Gunmen kill at least six children in attack on Cameroon school

Soldiers opened fire on Nigerians protesting against police brutality in the Lekki district of the commercial capital Lagos on Tuesday, and at least two people were shot, four witnesses told Reuters.

Thousands of Nigerians have demonstrated nationwide every day for nearly two weeks against a police unit, the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), that rights groups had for years accused of extortion, harassment, torture and murders. The unit was disbanded on Oct. 11 but the protests have persisted with demonstrators calling for a raft of law enforcement reforms.

"They started firing ammunition toward the crowd. They were firing into the crowd," said Alfred Ononugbo, 55, a security officer after the soldiers opened fire. "I saw the bullet hit one or two persons," he said.

The condition of those two people was not immediately known. Amnesty International has said at least 15 people had been killed since the protests began.

In a Twitter post, the Nigerian Army said no soldiers were at the scene of the shooting on Tuesday night in Lekki, an upmarket district where the toll gate has been the site of daily protests in Lagos, Africa's biggest city.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu tweeted pictures of him visiting people in hospital who were victims of what he referred to as the "unfortunate shooting incident at Lekki".

He said 25 people were being treated for mild to moderate injuries, two were receiving intensive care and three had been discharged.

"As the Governor of our state, I recognise the buck stops at my table and I will work with the FG (federal government) to get to the root of this unfortunate incident and stabilise all security operations to protect the lives of our residents," said Sanwo-Olu, adding that he would give a state broadcast on Wednesday morning.

The Lagos state government earlier said it would open an investigation into the shooting, which witnesses said began at about 7 p.m. (1800 GMT).

A Nigerian army spokesman did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Inyene Akpan, 26, a photographer, said more than 20 soldiers arrived at the toll gate in Lekki and opened fire. He said he saw two people being shot.

Akinbosola Ogunsanya, a third witness, said he saw around 10 people being shot. Ogunsanya, who said lights went out shortly before the soldiers arrived, also said he saw soldiers remove bodies.

Another witness, Chika Dibia, said soldiers hemmed in people as they shot at them.

Video verified by Reuters showed men walking slowly in formation toward demonstrators, followed by trucks with flashing lights, and the sound of gunfire popping. Another video showed the toll gate itself, with a protester waving a Nigerian flag, as people ran amid the sounds of gunfire.

A Reuters witness heard sirens and gunfire.

Defence meeting

President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday held scheduled talks with the defence minister and the chief of defence staff around 6:15 p.m. (1715 GMT) to discuss national security, two presidency officials told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity.

A spokesman for the president did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The Nigerian army was due to begin a two-month national exercise on Tuesday. When the move was announced on Saturday, it denied the move was part of a security response to the demonstrations. Days earlier, the military said it was prepared to help maintain law and order.

The weeks-long protests were sparked by a video that began circulating in early October purportedly showing officers shooting a man in southern Delta state. Police denied the shooting.

Authorities on Tuesday imposed a round-the-clock curfew on Lagos as the state governor said protests had turned violent.

It is one of five of Nigeria's 36 states to have announced such measures in the last two days. The national police chief also ordered the immediate deployment of anti-riot forces nationwide following increased attacks on police facilities, a police spokesman said.

Soldiers opened fire on Nigerians protesting against police brutality in the Lekki district of the commercial capital Lagos on Tuesday, and at least two people were shot, four witnesses told Reuters.

Soldiers opened fire on Nigerians protesting against police brutality in the Lekki district of the commercial capital Lagos on Tuesday, and at least two people were shot, four witnesses told Reuters. Thousands of Nigerians have demonstrated nationwide every day for nearly two weeks against a police unit, the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), that rights groups had for years accused of extortion, harassment, torture and murders. The unit was disbanded on Oct. 11 but the protests have persisted with demonstrators calling for a raft of law enforcement reforms. "They started firing ammunition toward the crowd. They were firing into the crowd," said Alfred Ononugbo, 55, a security officer after the soldiers opened fire. "I saw the bullet hit one or two persons," he said. The condition of those two people was not immediately known. Amnesty International has said at least 15 people had been killed since the protests began. In a Twitter post, the Nigerian Army said no soldiers were at the scene of the shooting on Tuesday night in Lekki, an upmarket district where the toll gate has been the site of daily protests in Lagos, Africa's biggest city. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu tweeted pictures of him visiting people in hospital who were victims of what he referred to as the "unfortunate shooting incident at Lekki". He said 25 people were being treated for mild to moderate injuries, two were receiving intensive care and three had been discharged. "As the Governor of our state, I recognise the buck stops at my table and I will work with the FG (federal government) to get to the root of this unfortunate incident and stabilise all security operations to protect the lives of our residents," said Sanwo-Olu, adding that he would give a state broadcast on Wednesday morning. The Lagos state government earlier said it would open an investigation into the shooting, which witnesses said began at about 7 p.m. (1800 GMT). A Nigerian army spokesman did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Inyene Akpan, 26, a photographer, said more than 20 soldiers arrived at the toll gate in Lekki and opened fire. He said he saw two people being shot. Akinbosola Ogunsanya, a third witness, said he saw around 10 people being shot. Ogunsanya, who said lights went out shortly before the soldiers arrived, also said he saw soldiers remove bodies. Another witness, Chika Dibia, said soldiers hemmed in people as they shot at them. Video verified by Reuters showed men walking slowly in formation toward demonstrators, followed by trucks with flashing lights, and the sound of gunfire popping. Another video showed the toll gate itself, with a protester waving a Nigerian flag, as people ran amid the sounds of gunfire. A Reuters witness heard sirens and gunfire. Defence meeting President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday held scheduled talks with the defence minister and the chief of defence staff around 6:15 p.m. (1715 GMT) to discuss national security, two presidency officials told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity. A spokesman for the president did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The Nigerian army was due to begin a two-month national exercise on Tuesday. When the move was announced on Saturday, it denied the move was part of a security response to the demonstrations. Days earlier, the military said it was prepared to help maintain law and order. The weeks-long protests were sparked by a video that began circulating in early October purportedly showing officers shooting a man in southern Delta state. Police denied the shooting. Authorities on Tuesday imposed a round-the-clock curfew on Lagos as the state governor said protests had turned violent. It is one of five of Nigeria's 36 states to have announced such measures in the last two days. The national police chief also ordered the immediate deployment of anti-riot forces nationwide following increased attacks on police facilities, a police spokesman said.

Nigerian soldiers fire at protesters, at least two hit - witnesses

When war ravages a country, it destroys not only lives but countless ideas that made the country what it was. It disrupts artistic discourse and brings artist's expression under threat. These are the very people who can offer a unique perspective and solutions that can heal the scars of society and make it move towards a better, brighter future. Providing platform to artists is hence an act that assumes great importance.

Somali Arts Foundation (SAF) is doing just that. In war torn and lawless Somalia, it is bringing many untold stories to the fore and through the perception and perspective of the artists. Somali Arts Foundation has been started in Somalia's capital Mogadishu.

It is challenging negative social norms as well. Fardowsa Hussien, a 25-year-old professional photographer told Voice of America how she had to face sexism from her fellow countrymen. Whenever she went out with her camera, she was at the receiving end of comments like 'shame on you' and that it was not a work befitting a 'Somali lady'. She gets encouragment from ladies however.

Somali Arts Foundation is helping Hussien showcase her work and meet other artists. The foundation is now seeking to promote creative industries in the country.

Sagal Ali, the founder of SAF said that she wants to work with every talented Somali.

When war ravages a country, it destroys not only lives but countless ideas that made the country what it was. It disrupts artistic discourse and brings artist's expression under threat.

When war ravages a country, it destroys not only lives but countless ideas that made the country what it was. It disrupts artistic discourse and brings artist's expression under threat. These are the very people who can offer a unique perspective and solutions that can heal the scars of society and make it move towards a better, brighter future. Providing platform to artists is hence an act that assumes great importance. Somali Arts Foundation (SAF) is doing just that. In war torn and lawless Somalia, it is bringing many untold stories to the fore and through the perception and perspective of the artists. Somali Arts Foundation has been started in Somalia's capital Mogadishu. It is challenging negative social norms as well. Fardowsa Hussien, a 25-year-old professional photographer told Voice of America how she had to face sexism from her fellow countrymen. Whenever she went out with her camera, she was at the receiving end of comments like 'shame on you' and that it was not a work befitting a 'Somali lady'. She gets encouragment from ladies however. Somali Arts Foundation is helping Hussien showcase her work and meet other artists. The foundation is now seeking to promote creative industries in the country. Sagal Ali, the founder of SAF said that she wants to work with every talented Somali.

Somalia: First modern arts institution gives platform to artists in war-torn country

Tax evasion and illicit theft of capital is robbing Africa of nearly $89&nbsp;million a year according to a new study by the UN trade and development agency.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IllicitFinancialFlows?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IllicitFinancialFlows</a> rob Africa of $89 billion each year, says <a href="https://twitter.com/UNCTAD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNCTAD</a>’s Economic Development in Africa Report 2020. 
 
Curbing this capital flight could cut almost in half the continent's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GlobalGoals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GlobalGoals</a> financing gap, <a href="https://t.co/55eYKoPfW0">https://t.co/55eYKoPfW0</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNCTADEDAR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNCTADEDAR</a> <a href="https://t.co/8tgkJiNpbc">pic.twitter.com/8tgkJiNpbc</a>
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According to the estimates published in the study, illegal outflows of capital from Africa totaled over USD 830 billion in the first 15 years of this century, much of it linked to movements of high-value commodities like gold, diamonds, and platinum,&nbsp;straining the ability of the continent's governments to provide services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

From 2013 to 2015,&nbsp;such outflows rose to nearly USD 89 billion a year on average. By comparison, the combined total of both official development assistance and foreign direct investment received by Africa during that three-year span averaged USD 102 billion annually.

''Illicit financial flows rob Africa and its people of their prospects, undermining transparency and accountability and eroding trust in African institutions,''&nbsp;said UNCTAD Secretary-General Mukhisa Kituyi.

The agency said that total illicit capital flight from Africa amounted to USD 836 billion between 2000 and 2015.

The largest component of illicit capital flights from Africa, totaling USD 40 billion in 2015, was related to ''extractive commodities''&nbsp;more than three-fourths of it in gold alone, followed by diamonds and platinum, UNCTAD said. It cautioned the data was incomplete and such figures were likely an underestimate of the true tally.

Illegal capital outflows from three countries:&nbsp;Nigeria, Egypt and South Africa,&nbsp;accounted for more than four-fifths of the total annually during that three-year span, with Nigeria alone making up nearly half of that, according to UNCTAD calculations.

Cracking down on such illegal outflows could help African countries retain capital for investment in roads, railways, schools, and healthcare, the agency said.

UNCTAD said African countries generally aren't doing enough to reform the international tax system in ways that could help, and said local judicial authorities often lack proper tools to combat tax evasion.

Tax evasion and illicit theft of capital is robbing Africa of nearly $89 million a year according to a new study by the UN trade and development agency. #IllicitFinancialFlows rob Africa of $89 billion each year, says @UNCTAD’s Economic Development in Africa Report 2020.

Tax evasion and illicit theft of capital is robbing Africa of nearly $89 million a year according to a new study by the UN trade and development agency. #IllicitFinancialFlows rob Africa of $89 billion each year, says @UNCTAD’s Economic Development in Africa Report 2020. Curbing this capital flight could cut almost in half the continent's #GlobalGoals financing gap, https://t.co/55eYKoPfW0 #UNCTADEDAR pic.twitter.com/8tgkJiNpbc — UNCTAD (@UNCTAD) September 28, 2020 × According to the estimates published in the study, illegal outflows of capital from Africa totaled over USD 830 billion in the first 15 years of this century, much of it linked to movements of high-value commodities like gold, diamonds, and platinum, straining the ability of the continent's governments to provide services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. From 2013 to 2015, such outflows rose to nearly USD 89 billion a year on average. By comparison, the combined total of both official development assistance and foreign direct investment received by Africa during that three-year span averaged USD 102 billion annually. ''Illicit financial flows rob Africa and its people of their prospects, undermining transparency and accountability and eroding trust in African institutions,'' said UNCTAD Secretary-General Mukhisa Kituyi. The agency said that total illicit capital flight from Africa amounted to USD 836 billion between 2000 and 2015. The largest component of illicit capital flights from Africa, totaling USD 40 billion in 2015, was related to ''extractive commodities'' more than three-fourths of it in gold alone, followed by diamonds and platinum, UNCTAD said. It cautioned the data was incomplete and such figures were likely an underestimate of the true tally. Illegal capital outflows from three countries: Nigeria, Egypt and South Africa, accounted for more than four-fifths of the total annually during that three-year span, with Nigeria alone making up nearly half of that, according to UNCTAD calculations. Cracking down on such illegal outflows could help African countries retain capital for investment in roads, railways, schools, and healthcare, the agency said. UNCTAD said African countries generally aren't doing enough to reform the international tax system in ways that could help, and said local judicial authorities often lack proper tools to combat tax evasion.

Tax evasion and illicit theft robbing Africa of $89 million annually: UN study

Sudan risks losing its heritage to gold-digging. It is the third largest gold producer in Africa.

Sudan at risk of losing priceless past due to gold hunting

Africa was one of the last continents to get infected with the coronavirus. Since then the trajectory of infections has been unprecedentedly high. Watch report.

COVID-19 creates havoc in parts of Africa: S Africa surpasses 400,000 cases

The new coronavirus could kill 150,000 people in Africa in a year unless urgent action is taken, according to a WHO modeling study.

Virus could infect more than 200 million in Africa

Heads of state and government officials from across Africa have gathered in Ethiopia's capital for talks primarily focused on ways to end to regional violence, including the conflicts in South Sudan and Libya. The 33rd African Union (AU) summit, which opened on Sunday in Addis Ababa, is being held under the theme "Silencing the Guns: Creating conducive conditions for Africa's development".

WION Dispatch: AU leaders seek end to regional conflicts at 33rd African Union

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