Africa in Brief: AFCON semi-final, DRC landslide and Somalia-UAE disagreement

Africa in Brief: AFCON semi-final, DRC landslide and Somalia-UAE disagreement
Reuters

Here are the latest stories from AnewZ’s Africa News programme, focusing on political and security developments across the African continent.

Landslide in eastern DRC has left 13 people dead and 30 others missing

A landslide in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo village of Burutsi has killed 13 people authorities say.

Around 30 people are still missing, raising concerns that the death toll could rise. Rescue efforts are ongoing as search teams work through dangerous conditions.

Officials reported that the landslide followed several hours of heavy rainfall in the region. The affected area is already struggling with ongoing conflict, as M23 rebels conduct search and rescue efforts.

The rebels captured the village from government forces last year.

Somalia terminates agreement with the UAE

Somalia’s federal government has announced the termination of several agreements with the United Arab Emirates covering port operations, security cooperation, and defence. The decision affects arrangements linked to the ports of Berbera, Bosaso, and Kismayo.

Authorities say the move follows months of tension, accusing the UAE of bypassing the federal government and engaging directly with regional administrations. Somali officials cite the recent entry of a UAE-backed Yemeni separatist leader through the self-declared Somaliland region as an example of actions they believe undermine Somalia’s sovereignty.

Regional authorities argue that the federal government does not have the mandate to cancel the agreements - a position echoed by Dubai-owned ports and logistics firm DP World.

Morocco host Nigeria in AFCON semi-final

Morocco’s Atlas Lions are set to face Nigeria’s Super Eagles in a high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations semi-final in Rabat on Thursday. The match is expected to be fiercely contested, with both teams aiming for a place in the final.

Playing on home soil, Morocco is expected to benefit from strong local support. The Rabat crowd is anticipated to create an intense atmosphere that could influence the flow and momentum of the game.

Moroccan fans say their passion and constant presence have been key to the team’s success so far. They believe the energy from the stands has helped drive Morocco’s unbeaten run in the tournament and could once again play a decisive role against Nigeria.

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