Eye on Africa

Hundreds flee Tigray after fighting flares near border

Georja CALVIN-SMITH August 4, 2026
Hundreds flee Tigray after fighting flares near border
Hundreds flee Tigray after fighting flares near border
In tonight's edition, hundreds of people run from the most serious fighting to break out in Tigray since 2022. Also,  Nigeria's still probing links that Mexican drug cartels may have to Africa's top economy. And Cape Verde’s veteran goalkeeper ⁠Vozinha arrived in Chile ​to join first division club Colo-Colo. 

France 24

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Hundreds flee Tigray after fighting flares near border
Hundreds flee Tigray after fighting flares near border

In tonight's edition, hundreds of people run from the most serious fighting to break out in Tigray since 2022. Also,  Nigeria's still probing links that Mexican drug cartels may have to Africa's top economy. And Cape Verde’s veteran goalkeeper ⁠Vozinha arrived in Chile ​to join first division club Colo-Colo. 

Georja CALVIN-SMITH August 4, 2026
Europe's record-breaking heat sparks wildfires, drought in France, Greece and the UK
Europe's record-breaking heat sparks wildfires, drought in France, Greece and the UK

Europe's record-breaking hot and dry summer continues to take its toll on France and Greece, where firefighters fought to contain major blazes, while the UK recorded its driest July in nearly two centuries. Europe is Earth’s fastest-warming continent, heating at more than twice the global average since the 1980s, according to the European Union’s Copernicus climate service.

FRANCE 24 August 4, 2026
Norway's Haugset wins stage 3 to claim Tour de France Femmes lead
Norway's Haugset wins stage 3 to claim Tour de France Femmes lead

Norway's Sigrid Haugset won stage three of the Women's Tour de France on Monday, seizing the overall lead and yellow jersey from Dutch rider Lorena Wiebes. Haugset launched a gutsy solo attack less than halfway into the hilly 156.6km route between Geneva and Poligny, and held off Belgium's Lotte Kopecky.

FRANCE 24 August 3, 2026
France: Water sports enthusiasts 'fly' above the River Seine
France: Water sports enthusiasts 'fly' above the River Seine

Parisians are defying gravity on the Seine thanks to the e-foil, an electric board equipped with a propeller. The board emerges from the water as soon as it gains speed, creating the feeling of flying just above the surface. 

FRANCE24 August 3, 2026
Ceuta migrant influx reignites immigration divisions in Europe
Ceuta migrant influx reignites immigration divisions in Europe

The arrival of 60,000 people into the Spanish North African enclave of Ceuta from Morocco last week has created serious tensions within the EU over immigration. Spain has called for a meeting of EU interior ministers which is due to take place Tuesday.

FRANCE 24 August 3, 2026
Bridge collapse in DR Congo reignites debate about mining revenues
Bridge collapse in DR Congo reignites debate about mining revenues

Several people ended up in the river after an important bridge collapsed on June 3 in the village of Hombo in the eastern part of the DRC. The bridge is one of the failing critical infrastructures in a territory that is home to one of the most lucrative mines in the region.

The FRANCE 24 Observers August 3, 2026
"The situation is out of control": Greek firefighters battle wildfire for fourth day
"The situation is out of control": Greek firefighters battle wildfire for fourth day

Greek firefighters are battling a wildfire northwest of Athens for the fourth day, as strong and erratic winds continue to fan the blaze. Fires throughout the country have killed five firefighters since last week.

FRANCE24 August 3, 2026
Across the EU, immigration being used as a 'political tool' across the political spectrum
Across the EU, immigration being used as a 'political tool' across the political spectrum

Delano D'Souza is pleased to welcome Dr. Manlio Graziano, Founder and Director of Nicholas Spykman International Center for Geopolitical Analysis. Italy's temporary suspension of the Schengen Agreement with Spain, following the migration episode in Ceuta, is presented less as a meaningful European policy than as a symbolic act driven by domestic politics. Dr Graziano argues that the episode reveals how migration has become an instrument of political positioning rather than policy making. His analysis suggests that Giorgia Meloni's principal audience is not Brussels or Madrid, but Italy's increasingly fragmented right, where competition from parties positioned even further to her right is compelling her to continually reaffirm her hardline credentials.

FRANCE24 August 3, 2026
EU calls for 'united action' on border protection after Ceuta mass crossing
EU calls for 'united action' on border protection after Ceuta mass crossing

The European Commission President, Ursula Von der Leyen, has reiterated the EU's support to help tackle illegal migration following last week's chaos in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in North Africa. The crisis has fanned anti-immigrant rhetoric by right wing politicians in Europe and sparked diplomatic tensions between Spain and some EU members, notably Italy. An emergency video conference of EU interior ministers is due to be held on August 3, on Rome's call.

FRANCE24 August 3, 2026
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TG EAPCET 2026 Qualified Students Can Apply for FCRI Forestry Course

Hyderabad: The Forest College and Research Institute (FCRI), Mulugu, Siddipet district, has started the application process for admissions into the B.Sc (Hons) Forestry programme for the 2026–27 academic year. College Dean Praveen announced that applications will be accepted from July 1 to July 25. Students who have qualified in TG EAPCET 2026 and passed Intermediate or its equivalent with BiPC, MBiPC, or MPC streams are eligible to apply for the four-year undergraduate programme. The B.Sc (Hons) Forestry course offers comprehensive academic and practical training in areas such as forest conservation, biodiversity, wildlife management, environmental protection, agroforestry, and natural resource conservation. Students will also receive extensive field training and hands-on practical exposure as part of the curriculum. The Dean stated that graduates of the programme will have promising career opportunities in forest departments, environmental organizations, research institutions, government agencies, and private sector companies. Eligible candidates are advised to submit their applications on or before July 25. For detailed admission guidelines and the application process, students can visit the official FCRI website. They may also contact the institute at 63038 271100, 08454-211939, or 08454-211930 for further information. Also Read: AP EAPCET 2026 Results to Be Released on July 2 Instead of Scheduled Date  

NTR's 'God of War' Buzz Grows After Official Project Announcement

Tollywood has received one of its biggest announcements of the year as  NTR and acclaimed filmmaker Trivikram Srinivas officially reunite for a grand mythological action epic. The prestigious project will be produced under the Haarika & Hassine Creations banner by S. Radha Krishna (Chinababu) and Suryadevara Naga Vamsi. The makers unveiled the project's official announcement along with a striking concept poster carrying the powerful tagline, "The Son of Shiva. The Pride of Parvathi. The Eternal Commander." The poster has gone viral across social media, fueling speculation about the film's storyline and  NTR's character. According to industry reports, NTR is expected to portray a powerful divine warrior inspired by Lord Kumaraswamy (Kartikeya/Skanda), the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi, and the commander of the celestial army. The film is said to blend mythology with high-octane action, rich storytelling, and modern commercial elements, making it one of the most ambitious projects in Trivikram's career. Reports also suggest that the makers are considering the title "God of War" for the film, although an official confirmation is still awaited. At present,  NTR is busy shooting for his upcoming film Dragon, directed by Prashanth Neel. Once that project is completed, this mythological spectacle is expected to go on floors. The production house is likely to reveal more details, including the first glimpse, cast, and technical crew, in the coming weeks.  

Low Water, High Profits! 15 Best Crops Farmers Should Grow in Water-Scarce Areas

Low Water, High Profits: Top Crops Farmers Can Grow in Water-Scarce Areas Across India Water Shortage No Longer Means Low Income: Experts Recommend Climate-Resilient Crops for Better Returns New Delhi: Water scarcity has emerged as one of the biggest challenges facing Indian agriculture. With irregular monsoons, declining groundwater levels, rising temperatures, and increasing climate variability, farmers across several states are being encouraged to shift from water-intensive crops to drought-tolerant and climate-resilient alternatives. Agricultural experts believe that choosing the right crop based on water availability and soil type can help farmers reduce production costs while maintaining stable yields. Traditionally, crops such as paddy and sugarcane require significant amounts of irrigation. However, in areas where water availability is limited, these crops often become economically risky. Experts recommend adopting crops that require less water, mature quickly, and are capable of withstanding dry weather conditions. Why Water-Efficient Crops Are Becoming Essential Climate experts warn that rainfall patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable. Delayed monsoons and prolonged dry spells have affected sowing in many parts of the country, prompting governments and agricultural departments to encourage farmers to diversify toward water-efficient farming systems. Low-water crops offer several advantages: Lower irrigation costs Reduced dependence on groundwater Better drought tolerance Lower cultivation expenses Stable yields during erratic rainfall Improved soil sustainability Best Crops for Low-Water Farming 1. Millets Millets are among the most drought-resistant crops and are gaining popularity due to increasing consumer demand for healthy foods. Popular varieties include: Pearl Millet (Bajra) Sorghum (Jowar) Finger Millet (Ragi) Foxtail Millet Little Millet Barnyard Millet These crops require substantially less water than rice and perform well under rain-fed conditions. 2. Pulses Pulse crops consume relatively less water while improving soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. Recommended pulses include: Red Gram (Pigeon Pea) Green Gram (Moong) Black Gram (Urad) Chickpea Cowpea Horse Gram Apart from offering good market prices, pulses also enhance soil health for future crops. 3. Oilseed Crops Oilseeds remain a profitable option in dryland farming. Suitable crops include: Groundnut Sesame Sunflower Castor Safflower Many of these crops require moderate irrigation only during critical growth stages. 4. Horticulture Crops With drip irrigation, several fruit crops can provide long-term income. Popular choices include: Pomegranate Guava Custard Apple Indian Gooseberry (Amla) Drumstick (Moringa) Several state governments have also promoted drumstick cultivation in drought-prone regions because of its low water requirement and export potential. 5. Medicinal and Aromatic Crops Farmers seeking diversification may consider: Aloe Vera Ashwagandha Lemongrass Vetiver Senna These crops generally require less irrigation and have growing demand from pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Crop Selection Based on Soil Type Sandy Soil Suitable crops include: Groundnut Sesame Watermelon Muskmelon Guava Cashew Black Cotton Soil Recommended crops: Cotton Pigeon Pea Sorghum Chickpea Sunflower Red Soil Suitable options include: Groundnut Millets Pulses Mango Guava Drumstick Choosing crops according to soil characteristics significantly improves productivity and reduces cultivation risks. Modern Water-Saving Techniques Agricultural scientists recommend integrating crop selection with efficient water management. Key practices include: Drip irrigation Mulching Rainwater harvesting Soil moisture conservation Organic matter incorporation Micro-irrigation systems Scientific nutrient management These techniques can substantially reduce water consumption while maintaining crop productivity. Climate Change Driving New Farming Practices Experts note that climate change is making traditional farming methods increasingly difficult. Several states have already started promoting drought-resistant crops, natural farming, and water-efficient cultivation practices to improve farmers' resilience against uncertain rainfall. Experts' Advice Agricultural experts recommend that farmers should not choose crops solely based on market prices. Instead, they should consider: Annual rainfall Groundwater availability Soil type Local climate Market demand Production cost Water availability throughout the season A scientific crop selection strategy can significantly improve profitability while reducing cultivation risks. Conclusion Water scarcity is expected to remain one of the biggest agricultural challenges in the coming years. However, adopting climate-resilient crops, efficient irrigation methods, and scientific farming practices can help farmers sustain productivity and increase profitability. As climate conditions continue to evolve, experts believe that water-efficient agriculture will play a crucial role in ensuring food security and long-term farm sustainability across India. Disclaimer This article is intended for informational purposes only. Crop suitability may vary depending on local climate, soil characteristics, water availability, and market conditions. Farmers are advised to consult their nearest agricultural extension office or qualified agriculture experts before making cultivation decisions.

US lifts blockade of Iran and Iranian supreme leader endorses direct talks with American officials

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei said “the face-to-face negotiations that will be held in the future will not mean accepting the enemy’s point of view.” WASHINGTON : The US on Thursday (Jun 18) lifted its blockade of Iran, and oil tankers began freely moving through the Strait of Hormuz after months of being unable to use the critical channel, as the tentative agreement to end the war took effect. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance announced that he may postpone a trip to Switzerland that had been planned for Friday and included a ceremonial signing of the deal. The visit might have helped start talks on the next, potentially even more critical, round of negotiations between the two sides.

Diaz shines as Colombia beat Uzbekistan 3-1

Colombia next face DR Congo on Tuesday in Guadalajara after Uzbekistan play Portugal in Houston. MEXICO CITY: Colombia winger Luis Diaz dazzled at a raucous Azteca Stadium as his side marked their return to the World Cup with a 3-1 Group K win over tournament debutants Uzbekistan on Wednesday (Jun 17).  Colombia, who missed the 2022 tournament in Qatar, struggled in the early stages but broke through in the 41st minute when a brilliant ball lifted into the area by Diaz was hooked in on the turn by Daniel Munoz, who had ghosted in behind the defence.

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