Major winter storm poised to unleash catastrophic conditions across U.S.

A massive winter storm is bearing down on the United States with a hazardous mix of freezing rain and heavy snow threatening some 160 million people through the weekend, prompting states of emergency across at least 14 states and Washington, D.C., and warnings of “catastrophic” icy conditions. The National Weather Service said the sprawling system could bring catastrophic ice accumulation capable of downing trees and power lines, leading to long-duration power outages and making travel extremely dangerous or impossible. The…

Rescue crews race to find six missing after New Zealand landslide

At least 6 missing after Mount Maunganui landslide hits New Zealand campsite; urgent search continues TAURANGA, New Zealand — Rescuers are digging through deep mud for at least six missing people after a landslide from Mount Maunganui, an extinct volcano, ploughed into a crowded campsite in northern New Zealand, destroying caravans, camper vans and a shower block. Police said a 15-year-old is the youngest person unaccounted for after the slide struck following heavy rain that drenched a large swath of the North Island.…

UN and UK Support Somali Government’s Call for Inclusive Election Talks

UN mission, UK back Somalia’s plan for inclusive election talks as tensions mount Friday January 23, 2026 MOGADISHU — The United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) has welcomed the Somali federal government’s decision to convene a national consultative forum and formally invite the Somali Future Council, a leading opposition alliance, as political tensions rise over the country’s electoral timeline. In a statement Wednesday, the UN mission reaffirmed its support for an inclusive political dialogue…

The Tragic Toll of Malnutrition in Kebbi State, Nigeria

Severe Malnutrition Claims Over 600 Child Lives in Kebbi, Nigeria More than 600 children have died from severe malnutrition in the northwestern state of Kebbi between January and September 2025, according to data from the state nutrition office. Health officials attribute the devastating rise in deaths to widespread misconceptions among residents, who often ascribe malnutrition to “spiritual attacks.” This misconception has resulted in delayed access to life-saving treatment, exacerbating the crisis. The impact of…

Somalia’s Cabinet Approves Maritime Safety Agreement for Indian Ocean Ports

Somalia approves regional maritime safety pact, gains authority to inspect foreign ships MOGADISHU — Somalia’s Council of Ministers on Thursday approved a regional maritime safety agreement that will allow the country to inspect foreign vessels, enforce international shipping standards and better protect its 3,300-kilometer coastline, marking a significant step in rebuilding oversight of a long-neglected maritime sector. The Cabinet endorsed a Memorandum of Understanding among Port State Control authorities in the Indian…

Wind and solar surpass fossil fuels in EU electricity generation

Wind and solar power outpaced fossil fuels in EU electricity for first time, Ember says Wind and solar power generated more of the European Union’s electricity than fossil fuels for the first time in 2025, marking a milestone in the bloc’s shift toward low-carbon energy despite political resistance and infrastructure strains. Wind and solar supplied 30% of EU electricity in 2025, edging past the 29% produced by power plants burning coal, gas and oil, according to new data from energy think tank Ember. The surge was driven by…

Senegal’s AFCON Final Walk-Off Fueled by Emotion, Not Rebellion

Senegal’s Dramatic AFCON Final: A Clash of Emotion and Controversy The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Senegal's Teranga Lions and hosts Morocco will be remembered for three things: officiating, raw emotion, and a historic protest. This gripping encounter not only showcased the competitive spirit of African football but also raised questions about the integrity of officiating in such high-stakes games. In a moment that stunned spectators and players alike, Senegal's head coach Pape Thiaw ordered his team…

Somalia Defense Chief Vows Tough Response to Any Sovereignty Threats

DOHA, Qatar — Somalia’s defense minister vowed a firm response to any threats against the country’s sovereignty, saying Mogadishu will not accept military or diplomatic actions that undermine its territorial integrity or national dignity. Defense Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, speaking to Al Jazeera Net during a visit to the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX) 2026, said the federal government has suspended all agreements with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after what he described as…

Somali Cabinet Commends SNA for Killing 130 al-Shabaab Militants in Lower Juba Region

MOGADISHU — Somalia’s Council of Ministers on Thursday praised the national army and said more than 130 al-Shabab militants were killed during a 24-hour battle that repelled a major assault on the coastal town of Kudhaa in the Lower Juba region. Officials described the operation as a decisive security victory, saying government troops thwarted what they called a desperate attempt by the al-Qaida-linked group to seize the strategic town. Authorities said the swift response prevented civilian casualties and restored stability…

ICE takes Minnesota five-year-old into custody, school officials report

Minneapolis — At least four students, including a 5-year-old boy, were detained by U.S. immigration officers in a Minneapolis suburb this week, deepening tensions over a federal crackdown that has flooded the area with agents and sparked a legal challenge from the state. The 5-year-old, identified by school officials as Liam Conejo Ramos, and his father were taken to a family detention facility in Dilley, Texas, according to attorney Marc Prokosch, who said the pair are asylum applicants and is seeking their release. The…