Senegal opened its polls on March 24 for a presidential election with 17 candidates, marking the highest number in the nation's history. The election had been preceded by months of uncertainty and unrest.

Polls have opened in Senegal for a presidential election after months of uncertainty and unrest, with around 7.3 million voters registered to participate.

The Légion d'honneur, France's highest award, can be stripped from recipients for criminal convictions or dishonorable acts against France. Gérard Depardieu faces a disciplinary procedure for sexual assault allegations. Notable figures stripped of the honour include Philippe Pétain, Maurice Papon, Bashar al-Assad, John Galliano, and Lance Armstrong. Controversial figures like Vladimir Putin, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Benito Mussolini, Francisco Franco, and Nicolae Ceaușescu still hold the title, with some legal barriers preventing posthumous removal.

On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, French President Emmanuel Macron vowed to end violence against women, citing measures taken by his administration such as easier abuse reporting, expanded emergency hotline hours, hiring specialized investigators, and creating new emergency accommodations. Despite recording 244,000 domestic violence victims in 2022, double the number from 2017, and 118 women killed by partners, protesters across France argue that progress is too slow. Feminist collectives and trade unions demand early prevention through education, regulation of the porn industry, sanctions for companies not preventing sexist violence, and 15,000 new emergency accommodation spots.

In Senegal, traditional healers like Karamba, who claims to command spirits, are gaining popularity through social media platforms like TikTok. Despite the country's limited healthcare system, many turn to these healers for treatment, often resulting in financial loss and unproven remedies. Critics argue that these practices are harmful and exploitative, with some healers being arrested for fraud. The article highlights the tension between traditional healers and critics who view their practices as dangerous and un-Islamic.

In Guinea-Bissau, a nation grappling with a severe drug crisis, the primary rehab center in Quinhámel is criticized for inhumane treatment methods, including chaining and beating patients. Despite claims of spiritual healing by its founder Domingos Té, the center faces allegations of torture and deaths. The United Nations Human Rights Office has called for an investigation. The country, plagued by drug trafficking involving high-ranking officials, lacks adequate treatment facilities, forcing families to choose between poor conditions at Quinhámel or expensive private clinics. Efforts to combat drug trafficking are ongoing, but the involvement of political-military elites hampers progress. Harm reduction initiatives by NGOs like ENDA Santé offer some relief to drug users.

France's rules for bringing bikes on trains vary by train type. TGVs and Intercités require a reservation and charge for assembled bikes, while bagged or folding bikes can be carried for free or a fee, depending on the service. TER regional trains allow free bike transport without reservation, but space is limited. Bikes are banned on Paris metro, bus, and tramway, with exceptions on RER and Transilien trains outside peak hours. Eurostar has specific conditions and charges for bike transport between London and Paris.

The Dinard Festival du Film Britannique, set to open its 43rd edition on September 27th, celebrates British films in the French seaside town of Dinard, Brittany. The festival, founded in 1989 by Thierry de la Fournière, highlights independent films and filmmakers aiming to enter the European market. The event's top prize, the Hitchcock d'Or, honors the legendary British director Alfred Hitchcock. Dinard's historical connection to British aristocrats and its Victorian-inspired architecture contribute to its reputation as a 'British' French town. The festival has attracted stars like Hugh Grant, Daniel Craig, Catherine Deneuve, and Monica Bellucci over the years.

The Kakimbo forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Conakry, Guinea, has been significantly reduced from 115 hectares to just 15 since 1983 due to rapid urbanisation. This green space serves as a vital carbon sink and its drastic reduction highlights the environmental impact of urban expansion.

West African leaders are convening at an ECOWAS meeting in Nigeria to discuss a potential military intervention in Niger following a recent coup. In Senegal, the foreign minister's announcement of potential troop participation in an ECOWAS-led mission has sparked considerable debate.

Ousmane Sonko was arrested following an incident where he allegedly took a phone from a law enforcement officer. He is currently being held in Dakar, facing accusations of calling for an insurrection and theft.

Guinea-Bissau's parliament is set to reopen following a historic legislative election in June where, for the first time, the parliamentary majority will be held by a coalition of opposition parties. This development is seen as a positive sign for democracy but also poses risks in a country with a history of coups d’états.

The Senegalese city of Thiès is embroiled in a diplomatic controversy following a meeting between its Mayor Babacar Diop and Russian officials, which allegedly discussed a partnership with the Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Sevastopol. Ukraine has accused Mayor Diop of collaborating with terrorists, escalating tensions. The report highlights the geopolitical implications and the strained relations between the involved parties.

President Macky Sall of Senegal has announced he will not seek a third term, alleviating political tensions in the country. This decision, which contrasts with the trend of African leaders extending their rule, was praised by international and regional leaders. Sall's tenure saw significant economic growth and infrastructure development, though unemployment remains high. His decision comes amid accusations of authoritarianism and recent unrest linked to opposition leader Ousmane Sonko. The announcement is seen as a move to uphold Senegal's democratic principles and ensure a transparent election in 2024.

Senegalese President Macky Sall announced he will not seek a third term in the upcoming 2024 election, following public backlash and tensions over potential constitutional revisions. His decision comes amid social-economic difficulties and recent deadly clashes between supporters of his critic, Ousmane Sonko, and security forces. Sall's announcement aims to prioritize the country's progress and stability, despite previous ambiguity about his political future.

Sembene Ousmane, a pivotal figure in African cinema known for his films 'Camp de Thiaroye' and 'Guelwaar' and his novels 'Black Docker' and 'God's Bits of Wood', would have turned 100 this year. Renowned for his focus on social justice, numerous events are planned in Senegal throughout 2023 to honor his legacy.

African leaders met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv to present an Afrocentric perspective on achieving peace between Russia and Ukraine. In Senegal, there are concerns over free speech as Walf TV has been ordered to cease broadcasting. Meanwhile, a humanitarian crisis is unfolding in northern Nigeria, particularly in Borno state, where millions face the threat of starvation due to escalating food insecurity.

Senegal is the first African country to host a global summit of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, focusing on improving governance in the oil, gas, and mineral sectors. The country is projected to be Africa's fastest-growing economy this year, largely due to its natural gas reserves, which it plans to export to Europe. However, there are significant concerns about the sustainability of these developments.

In Guinea-Bissau, the critically endangered hooded vulture is making a slow recovery due to concerted conservation efforts. Traditional healers have historically used vultures for medicinal purposes, leading to significant poaching and population decline. However, public information campaigns and law enforcement actions have begun to stabilize the vulture population. The efforts, led by organizations like the Organização para Defesa e Desenvolvimento das Zonas Húmidas and supported by Birdlife International, have changed public attitudes and reduced the illicit trade. Despite these successes, challenges remain, including poverty-driven poaching and the slow reproductive rate of vultures.

In Guinea-Bissau, the critically endangered hooded vulture is highly valued by traditional healers for its perceived medicinal properties, leading to an illicit trade. The country is a significant habitat for these vultures, with an estimated 43,000 birds in 2018, impacting the global population. Idrissa Biai, a prominent traditional healer, highlights the cultural importance of vultures and the role of Prometra in promoting traditional medicine.

Clashes between police and supporters of Senegalese opposition leader Ousmane Sonko resulted in nine deaths, prompting the government to impose a blanket ban on several social media platforms to curb further violence.

Following the conviction of Senegalese opposition leader Ousmane Sonko for corrupting youth, resulting in a two-year jail sentence, Senegal experienced a second day of significant unrest. The violence, which led to nine fatalities, erupted in response to a verdict that potentially jeopardizes Sonko's eligibility to run for president in the upcoming election. The opposition contends that the charges are politically motivated. Sam Bradpiece of FRANCE 24 reported on the situation from Dakar.

Ousmane Sonko, a prominent Senegalese opposition leader, faces backlash for making dehumanizing comments about an alleged rape victim during a livestreamed speech. His remarks have been condemned by over 30 academics, campaigners, and artists, who argue that such statements normalize rape culture. Sonko, who denies the charges and claims they are politically motivated, is accused of sexually assaulting a woman in 2021. The ongoing trial has led to sporadic protests and could potentially bar him from running in the upcoming presidential election. The case highlights ongoing tensions and challenges in Senegal's legal and political landscape.

Fulgence Kayishema, a former police officer suspected of orchestrating the 1994 church massacre in Rwanda, has been arrested in a South African vineyard. The article also highlights the 60th anniversary of the African Union and Africa Day, emphasizing the need to address the continent's challenges. Additionally, it touches on the economic activity of flower distillation in Tunisia's Cap Bon region.

Guinea-Bissau, considered Africa's first narco-state, is facing a severe drug crisis with a high percentage of youth addicted to hard drugs like crack cocaine. The main rehabilitation center in Quinhámel is accused of inhumane treatment, including beatings and chaining of patients. Despite some receiving antipsychotic medication, most 'healing' is done through prayer. The UN has been alerted to potential human rights abuses at the center. The country's drug problem is exacerbated by its role as a transit point for cocaine, with reports of government and military officials involved in trafficking. Efforts to combat the crisis are hampered by a lack of treatment facilities and the high cost of private clinics. Public health NGOs like ENDA Santé are working to minimize health risks for drug users, but the country remains a significant hub for cocaine trafficking.

Ousmane Sonko's chances of running for president in Senegal are uncertain following an appeal court's decision to impose a heavier suspended sentence on him for libel. This development sparked a minor protest in Dakar, which was dispersed by riot police using tear gas. Sonko has criticized the legal proceedings as politically motivated.

Colonel Dieng, an 88-year-old veteran, celebrates his return to Senegal after a new French reform allowed him to collect his pension without residing in France for six months each year. This change, largely driven by Aïssata Seck's advocacy, has enabled many Senegalese veterans to return home. Dieng's family, who view him as a hero, now seek special status for the children of the 'tirailleurs sénégalais'.

Fishermen in Guinea have experienced severe burns and blisters due to contact with a chemical agent spilled into the sea. Authorities have initiated an official investigation to determine the cause and extent of the contamination.

A deadly outbreak of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever in Senegal has claimed its first life, with the patient passing away at a hospital near Dakar. Over 80 potential cases are currently under observation.

The Guinean capital, Conakry, hosts the annual '72 hours of books' literary festival, celebrating African literature and cultural identity. The event gathers writers, publishers, and readers, highlighting the importance of books in a country with high illiteracy rates and limited access to libraries and books.

Tech firms in Senegal are suing TikTok for allegedly violating data protection laws and not safeguarding children from violent and inappropriate content.

Fencing classes in Senegal, organized by the charity Pour le Sourire d’un Enfant, have successfully rehabilitated over 1,200 young people, including 500 inmates, by teaching respect, responsibility, and self-discipline. The program, developed by Nelly Robin, has expanded to other cities and garnered interest from Ivory Coast, Rwanda, and Morocco. The initiative demonstrates the potential of sports in development and rehabilitation, with positive outcomes for participants like Fallou Diagne, who now aspires to compete internationally and help others.

The article discusses how Russian trolls are exploiting the nationality of Lauriane Doumbouya, the French wife of Guinea's new leader, Colonel Mamady Doumbouya. A doctored video suggesting she was an ex-lover of French President Macron has been circulated to fuel anti-French sentiment. This comes as Russia aims to strengthen its influence in Africa, reminiscent of its Soviet-era presence. Colonel Mamady Doumbouya recently became the interim leader of Guinea after a successful coup against President Condé. The first lady, who has four children with Doumbouya and works for the French military police, was present at her husband's swearing-in ceremony.

The article discusses the Diambars Academy, a football academy in Senegal founded by Patrick Vieira. The academy is known for its modern training methods and state-of-the-art facilities, which include six pitches and large changing rooms. It provides a home and training for over 100 young Senegalese footballers, many of whom aspire to play for Europe's biggest teams. The academy is a beacon of hope in a country where the average footballer's wage is relatively low, and the training sessions are taken very seriously by the young athletes. The article highlights the academy's role in nurturing football talent in Africa and the opportunities it offers to its pupils.

Overfishing, global warming, and plastic pollution are severely impacting the world's oceans, with researchers warning of a potential collapse of marine ecosystems within 25 years. In Seychelles, young entrepreneurs are exploring innovative solutions to mitigate the damage already inflicted on marine environments.

Cashew nuts, which constitute over 90% of Guinea-Bissau's exports and about a quarter of its GDP, are experiencing a significant price drop this year. As the harvest progresses, many farmers report unfavorable conditions and financial strain.

In Guinea, snakebites are a significant health issue, with about 3,600 fatalities annually. The Kindia centre de traitement des envenimations is the country's only specialized snakebite clinic, facing a dire shortage of antivenom. Fatoumata Lamourana, a victim of a green mamba bite, was treated at the clinic with INOSERP antivenom, developed in collaboration with IRBAG. The World Health Organization has sent emergency antivenom supplies to Guinea, but the need far exceeds the available stock. Traditional healers offer cheaper but ineffective and often dangerous treatments. The Asclepius Snake Foundation provides clinical support and free antivenom to the clinic, ensuring no patient is turned away. Despite challenges, research and development of antivenoms continue, with ASF researchers collecting data to improve medical practices. Lamourana's recovery after prompt treatment at the clinic highlights the importance of immediate medical care for snakebite victims.

The article explores the presence and practices of West African spiritualists, known as Marabouts, in Paris. It contrasts their significant numbers with the active Catholic priests in the Parisian Diocese and discusses the services they offer, which range from solving personal issues to protection from evil spirits. The article highlights the negative reputation of Marabouts, who often face charges such as fraud and illegal practice of medicine. It delves into the history of Marabouts in France, their cultural origins, and the challenges faced by the police in dealing with Marabout-related crimes. Personal stories of victims and insights from experts and former Marabouts provide a deeper understanding of the issue. The journalist, through a personal encounter with a Marabout named Professor Jean, illustrates the typical interaction and the dubious nature of the services offered.

The article discusses the rise of traditional healers in Senegal, who are often the first point of contact for medical care due to the country's inadequate healthcare system. It focuses on a popular healer known as Karamba, who has gained a significant following on social media platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. Karamba, dubbed the 'Messi of Djinns,' claims to have exceptional powers and uses social media to showcase his supposed treatments, which has led to a booming business. The article also touches on the broader issue of health disinformation spread through social media and includes a comment from Mouhamadou Kane, a Senegalese analyst at the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime, who suggests that many traditional healers are conmen exploiting vulnerable people.

Security forces were deployed in Dakar, Senegal, as the trial of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko approached. Sonko faces defamation charges against a minister, which could impact his eligibility for the upcoming presidential elections in February.

Hundreds of sub-Saharan African migrants in Tunisia face attacks and homelessness following a racist presidential speech. Guinea has initiated repatriation of its nationals, with other countries expected to follow. French President Emmanuel Macron pledges €50 million in Gabon for forest protection, sparking protests and accusations of hypocrisy in DR Congo. Burkina Faso's FESPACO film festival celebrates African cinema and serves as a marketplace for content.

In Senegal, the peanut season has been underway for three months, but seeds are already scarce on the local market due to the high demand from foreign exporters. Local oil millers criticize the dumping practices of these exporters, which disrupt the primary income source for many local farmers. According to the World Bank, nearly 30% of Senegalese households depend on peanut farming.

In Dakar, Senegal, police used tear gas to disperse supporters of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko following his court appearance for a libel case. The incident reflects growing tensions ahead of next year's elections, where Sonko may challenge incumbent President Macky Sall, whose potential third-term candidacy is deemed unconstitutional by critics.

The article discusses the harrowing experiences of children who attended Koranic schools in Senegal, known as daaras. These schools are infamous for subjecting their pupils to severe beatings and forcing them to beg on the streets. The children lived in squalid conditions, faced malnutrition, disease, and even death. The focus is on the story of Samba Mbaye, a former daara student who escaped and now lives with other children in an abandoned building in Dakar. The article highlights the issue of child abuse and forced labor in these Islamic schools and the plight of the children who manage to escape.

Saint Louis, one of Senegal's largest cities, is facing the threat of disappearance due to rising sea levels, which have caused close to a kilometer of its coastline to be lost over a decade. Despite the high risk of flooding, especially in the Langue de Barbarie area, many residents are choosing to remain in their homes.

Guinea's specialized snakebite clinic in Kindia is the only one of its kind in the country, facing a high number of venomous snakebites, particularly from mambas and cobras. With an estimated 3,600 annual fatalities, the clinic relies on the polyvalent antivenom INOSERP, developed with local collaboration. Despite the high cost of treatment, the Asclepius Snake Foundation provides free vials to ensure no patient is turned away. The country's other health centers are severely understocked with antivenom. Traditional healers offer risky alternatives that often worsen the patients' conditions. The clinic's success is also supported by research efforts to develop more effective antivenoms. Fatoumata Lamourana's recovery after a green mamba bite exemplifies the clinic's life-saving potential.

The article discusses the cultural and economic aspects of the Ladoum sheep in Senegal, particularly in the context of the Tabaski (Eid al-Adha) festival. Ladoum sheep, a hybrid breed, are highly prized and can be very expensive, with top specimens like 'Joe Biden' being sold for breeding at around €20,000. The breeder Abou Kane, a prominent figure in this industry, is the president of the Alliance for the Development and Improvement of Breeds and has a significant following on social media. The article also touches on the economic challenges faced by Senegalese people due to the war in Ukraine, which has increased fuel and feed prices, and sanctions against Mali, affecting the sheep supply. The government has attempted to mitigate these issues with subsidies and tax cuts. Despite the high cost of Ladoums, there is a strong sense of solidarity in Senegal, with wealthier families often sharing sheep with those less fortunate during Tabaski.

Benoit Fader Keita, a singer from the Bedik minority in Senegal, is using electro music to preserve his endangered mother tongue, Mënik. With less than 4,000 speakers, Mënik is classified by UNESCO as endangered. Keita, who performs under the name Beni Fadi, has found success with his first electro show in Dakar and is releasing an EP titled 'Farkoko'. The EP, co-produced with ElectrAfrique and RISE, features traditional Bedik stories set to afro-house and techno beats. Keita's music has gained traction, earning radio play and respect in a music scene traditionally dominated by genres like mbalax. Despite the challenges, Keita is determined to use his music to keep his language and culture alive, balancing his career as a video editor with his passion for music.

Guinean Prime Minister Mohamed Beavogui defends the military coup led by Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, arguing it was necessary to remove former President Alpha Conde, who had become a dictator. Beavogui criticizes the international community for not supporting Guinea before the coup and emphasizes the need for a transitional process to establish solid institutions and a credible justice system before holding elections. He also discusses the cultural and historical ties between Guinea and Mali, justifying the continued open border despite ECOWAS sanctions. The interview highlights the challenges and plans for Guinea's political future.

The article discusses the recent changes in French law that now allow lesbian couples and single women to access fertility treatments. Aurore Foursy and Julie Ligot, a lesbian couple, express their joy over the new legislation, which aligns France with other European countries providing similar rights. Fertility clinics, such as the Diaconesses Croix Saint-Simon center, anticipate a significant increase in patients. However, France faces a sperm donation crisis due to its non-commercial donation policy and the upcoming end to donor anonymity. The Agency of Biomedicine is set to launch a campaign to encourage sperm donations. Despite the new law, older women and those without financial means may still seek treatment abroad due to long waiting times. The article also touches on the allowance for women in their 30s to freeze their eggs and the continued illegality of surrogacy in France.

South Africa is experiencing severe unrest following the imprisonment of former President Jacob Zuma, leading to violence and looting that have overwhelmed the healthcare system. Dr. Suhayl Essa from Johannesburg's Hillbrow Clinic describes his harrowing experiences treating victims of violence amidst the chaos. The unrest has disrupted ambulance services, vaccination programs, and the transport of medical supplies, including oxygen. Health authorities fear the violence could exacerbate the COVID-19 crisis, which has already claimed over 65,000 lives in the country. The economic damage from the unrest is likely to worsen the effects of the pandemic, particularly for the poor and marginalized. Despite the risks, healthcare workers like Dr. Essa continue to provide care, driven by a sense of duty to help those in need.

South Africa is experiencing a severe third wave of COVID-19, exacerbated by the Delta variant and a slow vaccine rollout. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and the government has implemented new restrictions. Criticism arises over the handling of the crisis, with allegations of poor planning and corruption scandals undermining public confidence. Less than 5 percent of the population have received a single vaccine dose, despite the country's call for vaccine equity. Experts emphasize the importance of vaccination combined with public health measures to control the virus.

Ivory Coast received half a million COVID-19 vaccine doses in late February but is facing challenges with its rollout due to low public demand. As of March 30, only 40,153 shots were administered, raising concerns about meeting the schedule before the vaccines expire in September. The country was the second in Africa to receive vaccines from Covax and is expecting more in May. Comparatively, Ghana and Senegal have been more successful with their rollouts. Issues contributing to the slow uptake in Ivory Coast include vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation, distrust due to past medical exploitation, and concerns over AstraZeneca's safety. The government is trying to increase interest through social media campaigns and engaging with religious leaders. The World Health Organization's Africa coordinator, Richard Mihigo, emphasized the risk of wasting the vaccines with short shelf lives.

In South Africa, particularly in the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga, avocados and macadamia nuts are increasingly targeted by organized criminals, causing significant financial losses for farmers. To combat this, private security companies are deployed to patrol the fields continuously.

Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara has been re-elected for a third term, with the head of the electoral commission announcing a final turnout of 53.90%. The election has been contested by the opposition, citing Ouattara's decision to run as a violation of the two-term limit, despite his claim that a new constitution reset his mandate. The lead-up to the vote saw at least 30 deaths, with five more on election day. Fears of long-term unrest remain, recalling a civil war following a disputed 2010 election. The Carter Center noted the exclusion of political forces and a boycott by part of the population in a volatile security environment. Opposition leaders Henri Konan Bedie and Pascal Affi N'Guessan have rejected the results and announced a transitional council.

Full results from Ivory Coast’s presidential vote are expected this week, with turnout being a key indicator of the opposition's boycott effectiveness. The post-election mood in Abidjan is being reported on by FRANCE 24’s Sam Bradpiece.