Madagascar’s military ousted President Andry Rajoelina amid protests over shortages and unrest, sparking a major political crisis.
In February 2026, Tropical Cyclone Gezani struck Madagascar’s eastern port city Toamasina with winds up to 270 km/h, killing at least 38 people, injuring hundreds, and displacing thousands. The cyclone destroyed 75% of Toamasina’s infrastructure, leaving widespread flooding and power outages. Madagascar’s military leader declared a national disaster and called for international aid amid ongoing recovery efforts.
Cyclone Gezani struck Madagascar and Mozambique in February 2026, displacing over 16,000 people, damaging thousands of homes and schools, and causing injuries and fatalities. The storm follows recent disasters, stretching regional response efforts amid ongoing climate-related challenges.
Recent studies reveal accelerating declines in bird populations linked to climate change and intensified agriculture, shifts in tropical plant flowering disrupting ecosystems, and urgent gaps in insect species discovery. Conservation efforts show promise in restoring endangered species' behaviors, while research into centenarians uncovers blood proteins tied to slower aging, highlighting intertwined environmental and biological challenges worldwide.
A set of travel essays highlights Iceland’s waterfalls and beaches, Madagascar’s Isalo National Park, and Colorado’s mountain towns, offering practical tips and vivid scenery for seasonal trips as of today.
Uchral Nyam-Osor was appointed Mongolia's new prime minister following the resignation of Zandanshatar Gombojav. The change follows weeks of political turmoil, opposition boycotts, and corruption allegations, raising concerns over government stability and foreign investment. Uchral aims to unify the government and stabilize the economy.
African governments are taking steps to address fuel shortages and rising prices amid global tensions. Madagascar has declared a state of emergency, South Africa has cut fuel levies, Ethiopia has introduced rationing, and Senegal has restricted foreign travel for ministers. These actions respond to recent global disruptions affecting oil supplies.
Madagascar has arrested several Gen Z activists following protests against the new military regime, raising concerns over freedoms. The regime, led by Col Michael Randrianirina, has faced youth discontent over lack of reforms, economic issues, and close ties to Russia. The arrests come amid ongoing protests and political instability.
Paraguay’s president Santiago Peña has visited Taiwan and has reaffirmed diplomatic support, signing cooperation agreements and praising shared democratic values. Beijing has urged Paraguay to sever ties and has criticised the visits; Taiwan’s president Lai Ching‑te has thanked Paraguay and signed deals including an AI computing centre memorandum of understanding.
A former French national and an accomplice in Madagascar have been charged over an alleged plot to destabilise the country, including plans to sabotage power lines and incite unrest. The group reportedly planned actions for 18 April and used a WhatsApp group to coordinate. Madagascar’s political instability and past protests provide the backdrop for the case.