Senegal’s football team lost its AFCON title after CAF reversed the win amid chaos, sparking outrage in the nation.
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.
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 has approved a bill increasing prison sentences for same-sex relations from five to ten years, criminalizing the promotion of homosexuality and penalizing accusations without proof. The law, supported by all lawmakers present, reflects regional trends of stricter anti-LGBTQ+ legislation amid protests and arrests. President Faye is expected to sign the bill today.
On March 17, 2026, CAF's appeals board ruled that Senegal forfeited the 2025 African Cup of Nations final after players walked off during a penalty dispute. The 1-0 win was overturned to a 3-0 victory for Morocco. Senegal plans to appeal the decision, which has sparked widespread controversy and calls for investigation into CAF governance.
CAF's appeal board awarded Morocco the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title after ruling Senegal forfeited the final for walking off the pitch. Senegal plans to appeal to CAS, citing procedural issues and unfairness. The decision has sparked controversy over governance and disciplinary processes in African football.
The Senegalese football federation is appealing a CAF decision to strip Senegal of its Africa Cup title after a controversial final in January. They have filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport, calling for an investigation into alleged corruption and disputing the ruling that Senegal forfeited the match for leaving the field without referee approval. The case highlights ongoing tensions in African football, with Senegal maintaining its claim to the title despite CAF's decision.
Senegal's 2026 Africa Cup of Nations victory was revoked after protests and a controversial final. CAF awarded the title to Morocco following chaos during the match, with Senegal planning legal action. The decision has strained relations between the two nations and raised questions about integrity in African football.
Kenyan police officers have completed their deployment with the UN-backed Gang Suppression Force in Haiti, which aims to restore security amid ongoing gang violence. The mission, involving over 5,500 personnel, continues to face resource constraints, with Kenyan troops remaining central to operations. The second Kenyan contingent has returned home after a successful deployment.
CAF overturned Senegal's 1-0 victory in the recent AFCON final after protests over VAR decisions. Morocco was awarded the title following an appeal, prompting ongoing disputes. CAF plans regulatory reforms and a leadership change amid controversy.
Algeria's former president Liamine Zeroual, who served during the civil war and organized the country's first multi-party election in 1995, has died at age 84. He was respected in retirement. Flags will fly at half-mast across Algeria.
Senegal's parliament approved a law criminalizing same-sex relations, with penalties including up to 10 years in prison and hefty fines. The law, signed by President Faye, faces international criticism for violating human rights and potentially discouraging HIV treatment. Supporters see it as upholding moral values.
On April 3, 2026, Iran shot down a US F-15E fighter jet over southwestern Iran, marking the first US combat aircraft loss in the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran. One crew member was rescued after a frantic search-and-rescue operation, while the second remained missing. Iran called on civilians to capture the missing pilot, offering a $60,000 reward. A second US A-10 attack plane was also downed, with its pilot rescued. The incident escalates tensions as President Trump renews threats against Iran's infrastructure and demands the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours.
A boat carrying over 100 migrants from Libya capsized in the Mediterranean, resulting in 2 deaths and 70 missing. Only 32 survivors were rescued by passing ships, highlighting ongoing dangers faced by migrants crossing to Europe. The incident underscores the impact of restrictive migration policies.
Senegal has lodged an appeal after CAF has stripped it of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, awarding Morocco the trophy following a controversial final. Senegal's players and officials argue they were forced onto the pitch and deny protesting the refereeing decision. The decision has sparked calls for an investigation into potential corruption within CAF.
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.
Candidates for the UN Secretary-General role have undergone public questioning at UN headquarters. The process aims to increase transparency as the organization faces calls for reform and internal challenges. The candidates include Rafael Grossi, Michelle Bachelet, Rebeca Grynspan, and Macky Sall, with the final selection due by the end of July.