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Peter Mutharika, 85, has won Malawi's September 16 presidential election with 56.8% of the vote, defeating incumbent Lazarus Chakwera, who conceded defeat. Malawi faces ongoing economic challenges, including high inflation, food shortages, and climate disasters, amid a closely contested election process. Results were announced on September 24, 2025.
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A bus traveling from South Africa to Zimbabwe and Malawi crashed near Louis Trichardt, Limpopo, on Sunday evening, killing 42 people including children. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with initial causes under investigation. The incident highlights ongoing road safety concerns in the region.
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A series of recent fatal accidents include a motorcycle collision in Brazil killing a footballer, a bus crash in Uganda causing dozens of deaths, and a home crash in Nashville after a car driven by an impaired teen. Authorities urge caution amid ongoing investigations.
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As of November 27, 2025, the US has boycotted the G20 summit in Johannesburg, citing unsubstantiated claims of persecution against white Afrikaners and land confiscation. South Africa, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, condemned the boycott as based on misinformation and confirmed its full G20 membership. Despite US absence, the summit proceeded with a declaration addressing global challenges, supported by most members except the US and Argentina.
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As COP30 climate talks conclude in Belem, Brazil, China asserts dominance in clean energy diplomacy and investment, showcasing renewable technology and partnerships worldwide. Indigenous and activist protests highlight demands for stronger climate action and land rights amid stalled negotiations. The US, absent under President Trump, cedes influence, focusing on fossil fuel exports, while Brazil emphasizes Indigenous land protection and forest conservation.
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Malawi's government has announced the abolition of examination, development, and other school fees for secondary schools, effective January 2026. The move aims to increase access and retention, but raises concerns about funding, infrastructure, and teacher recruitment amid economic challenges.
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First Minister John Swinney has written to the UK foreign secretary, Yvette Cooper, urging her to reconsider planned cuts to aid in Malawi. Swinney emphasizes the importance of ongoing support amid Malawi's health, education, and climate challenges, and criticizes the UK Government's reduction of aid from 0.5% to 0.3% of GNI.