-
The US announced new partial and full entry restrictions on nationals from several African countries and others, citing security concerns and civil record issues. The measures, effective January 1, 2026, target countries with high visa overstay rates and corruption, with exemptions for athletes and certain travelers. The move follows recent security incidents and aims to enhance vetting.
-
The US State Department has notified at least 29 ambassadors, mostly appointed during Biden's administration, that their postings will end in January. The move affects key countries in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, as part of a broader effort to align diplomacy with the current administration's priorities.
-
Senegal beat Sudan 3-1 in the Africa Cup of Nations, with Ibrahim Mbaye scoring a late goal after coming off the bench. Senegal, the defending champions, will face either Mali or Tunisia in the quarter-finals. Sudan was eliminated despite a spirited performance, and other matches shaped the knockout stage standings today.
-
On New Year's Eve 2025, a boat carrying over 200 migrants capsized near Jinack Village in Gambia's North Bank region. Authorities rescued 102 survivors and recovered seven bodies. The vessel was found grounded on a sandbank. This tragedy highlights the deadly Atlantic migration route from West Africa to Spain's Canary Islands, where thousands risk their lives seeking better opportunities in Europe.
-
Egypt's national football team defeated Ivory Coast 3-2 in the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals, with Mohamed Salah scoring his fourth goal of the tournament. Nigeria also advanced after beating Algeria 2-0. Egypt will face Senegal in the semi-finals, with Salah aiming for his first AFCON title.
-
On January 18, 2026, Senegal defeated host Morocco 1-0 after extra time in a tense Africa Cup of Nations final in Rabat. The match featured a controversial late penalty awarded to Morocco, prompting Senegal players to briefly walk off in protest amid fan unrest. Senegal's Pape Gueye scored the winning goal in the 94th minute, securing Senegal's second AFCON title.
-
Senegal and Ivory Coast fans face travel bans to the US due to new entry restrictions, affecting support at the upcoming World Cup. Despite exceptions for players, supporters without visas are barred, raising concerns about limited attendance and logistical challenges for teams and fans.
-
Senegal's national football team won the Africa Cup of Nations after a tense final against Morocco, with Pape Gueye scoring in extra time. The victory sparked nationwide celebrations, with the president praising the team and declaring a public holiday. The match was marked by protests and controversy over refereeing decisions.
-
During the African Cup final in Rabat, Senegalese players walked off the pitch in protest after a late penalty was awarded to Morocco. The match resumed after delays, with Senegal winning in extra time. The incident drew condemnation from FIFA and CAF, highlighting issues of sportsmanship and crowd behavior.
-
The African Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco on January 18 was marred by protests, walk-offs, and misconduct, leading CAF to impose fines and suspensions on players and officials. The chaotic scenes have impacted Morocco's 2030 World Cup ambitions and strained diplomatic ties between the two nations.
-
Militants linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State stormed a town in northern Burkina Faso, killing several male traders and burning bodies. The attack targeted Ghanaian traders, with Burkina Faso's military reclaiming the site. The violence highlights ongoing regional instability amid jihadist expansion.
-
Students at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar protested after a second-year medical student, Abdoulaye Ba, died from police-inflicted injuries during clashes. The unrest follows ongoing disputes over unpaid stipends, university closures, and government response to protests, highlighting broader economic and political tensions in Senegal.
-
Senegal's parliament is set to pass a bill criminalizing same-sex relations, increasing penalties and broadening the scope of 'unnatural acts.' The legislation follows recent arrests and social media homophobia, with the bill awaiting a parliamentary vote. Critics warn it worsens human rights conditions.
-
The US Department of Homeland Security remains partially shut down as Democrats oppose funding bills over immigration restrictions. Republicans cite national security concerns, while federal workers continue working without pay. Negotiations are ongoing, with some signs of potential compromise.
-
Morocco's coach Walid Regragui resigned less than 100 days before the World Cup, citing a need for new energy. Mohamed Ouahbi, previously under-23 boss, replaces him. Morocco faces Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti in Group C, with warm-up matches scheduled in March.
-
Senegal's parliament approved a law doubling prison sentences for same-sex relations to 10 years, criminalizing the promotion of homosexuality and penalizing accusations without proof. The law, supported by all lawmakers present, reflects a regional trend of tightening anti-LGBTQ+ legislation amid protests and arrests.
-
On March 17, 2026, CAF's appeals board overturned Senegal's January 18 African Cup of Nations final win, declaring Senegal forfeited for walking off during a late penalty dispute. Morocco is now officially recorded as the 3-0 winner. Senegal plans to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The decision marks Morocco's first AFCON title since 1976.