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UK food prices for Christmas are up 5% overall, with some items rising sharply. Supermarkets are countering inflation with increased promotions, especially Aldi and Lidl, offering a full festive meal for less than £12 for eight people. Despite inflation, some prices, like potatoes and Yorkshire puddings, have fallen.
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African countries have pledged increased contributions to the African Development Fund (ADF-17), tripling support and emphasizing Africa's role as a co-investor. The fund finances infrastructure, health, and education projects, leveraging private capital. Meanwhile, Uganda and Kenya secure major infrastructure and green financing, and efforts to support women entrepreneurs expand across Africa.
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The US has deported Iranian nationals to Iran and migrants to Eswatini, amid broader efforts to increase deportations. These actions follow negotiations and controversial agreements, raising concerns over human rights and diplomatic relations. The deportations include individuals who had little opportunity to challenge their removal, with some fearing persecution.
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Recent credit rating updates reveal contrasting economic trajectories across African nations. Egypt's rating was upgraded due to reforms and growth, while Senegal's was downgraded amid fiscal challenges. These shifts highlight differing economic reforms and regional risks, with implications for investor confidence and regional stability.
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Belize has announced it retains veto power over a new US-backed immigration agreement, citing concerns over sovereignty and security. The deal, similar to previous arrangements with Paraguay, aims to manage asylum seekers but faces domestic criticism and requires senate approval.
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U.S. District Judge Waverly Crenshaw is reviewing motions to dismiss charges against Salvadoran immigrant Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly deported in 2019 and faces criminal and immigration proceedings. The case highlights legal disputes over evidence, prosecutorial motives, and deportation policies amid ongoing tensions over immigration enforcement.
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Mali has reformed its mining code to increase state benefits amid ongoing disputes with foreign companies. Meanwhile, Ghana combats illegal mining with grassroots patrols, amid economic struggles and environmental damage. Both stories highlight Africa's complex resource management issues today.
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Harare reports 501 cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease, while cholera cases surpass 300,000 across Africa. Ethiopia and Rwanda investigate Marburg virus, with ongoing support from WHO and Africa CDC. No deaths reported yet, but health authorities remain vigilant.
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Apple has launched a limited-edition iPhone accessory in collaboration with Issey Miyake, inspired by the designer's 'A Piece of Cloth' project. The knit pouch, available in multiple colors, reflects a blend of fashion and technology, echoing the minimalist style associated with Steve Jobs. The product emphasizes creative self-expression and continues the brands' shared design philosophy.
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MrBeast's philanthropic organization, Beast Philanthropy, has announced a strategic partnership with the Rockefeller Foundation to engage youth and address global issues. They plan to visit Ghana early next year to learn from efforts against child labor in the cocoa industry, aiming to combine entertainment and results-oriented philanthropy.
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The 2026 FIFA World Cup draw has been finalized, revealing group placements for 48 teams across North America. Key details include host country allocations, seedings, and match schedules, with the tournament set to begin on June 11, 2026, in Canada, Mexico, and the US. The draw determines group compositions and knockout matchups.
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The expanded 48-team World Cup draw has been announced, highlighting potential upsets and tough groups. England faces Croatia first, while teams like Brazil, France, and Norway are positioned for strong runs. The format aims to reduce early eliminations, but unpredictability remains high.
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The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has identified several Dubai-style chocolate bars in the UK that do not meet safety and labelling regulations, potentially endangering consumers with allergies. The FSA is reviewing products and advises allergy sufferers to avoid these chocolates until further results are available.
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ECOWAS has called for the release of political detainees and an inclusive, short-term transition in Guinea-Bissau following a military coup. The bloc rejected the junta's 12-month plan and condemned a recent coup attempt in Benin. It approved security funding for regional counterterrorism efforts amid rising insecurity.