World Cup 2026 qualifying: African battle for spots at finals intensifies

At least 15 people have died in a new Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, confirmed by health officials in the central Kasai province, where 28 suspected cases are recorded. The World Health Organization is working to control the spread, with a stockpile of treatments including 2,000 doses of the effective Ervebo vaccine available. Want More Context? 🔎

At least 32 people died in Nigeria's Niger state when an overloaded boat carrying around 100 passengers capsized after hitting a submerged tree stump on the River Niger. More than 50 individuals were rescued, while eight remain missing; the government has initiated investigations and established a team to enforce safety regulations amid frequent boat accidents in the region. Want More Context? 🔎

Africa faces significant challenges in AI development due to the lack of data for its many languages, which are often oral rather than written. The Africa Next Voices project aims to address this by creating a dataset in 18 African languages, enabling tools that can support speakers and foster inclusivity in technology, driven by a $2.2 million Gates Foundation grant. Want More Context? 🔎

South African authorities identified "extreme poverty and a severe lack of affordable housing" as key factors in the deadly Usindiso building fire in Johannesburg in August 2023, which killed 77 people. A commission of inquiry found widespread fire-safety concerns in inner-city buildings and recommended urgent action to address long-standing housing issues, emphasizing the need for political will and resources to improve living conditions for the urban poor. Want More Context? 🔎

An aid worker reported that a landslide in Sudan's Darfur region, triggered by heavy rain, has resulted in at least 370 confirmed deaths, with local armed groups estimating as many as 1,000 fatalities. Rescue efforts are hampered by difficult terrain and poor communication, as many victims remain buried under rubble, and urgent aid is being sought for the affected villages. Want More Context? 🔎

Even significant investments in African coaches do not ensure success, as seen with Libya's Cisse, who has struggled, and Nigeria's Chelle, who faced criticism despite a decent start. With four World Cup qualifying matchdays left, the outcomes could influence the future of African coaches in international football. Want More Context? 🔎