A devastating fire took place in Sèmè-Kraké, on the Beninese-Nigerian border, causing the death of at least 35 people. The explosion devastated an oil warehouse and quickly engulfed surrounding shops and vehicles. Witnesses say they heard an explosion shortly before the fire started, but the origin still remains uncertain. Families are mobilizing to find their missing loved ones, while the community grieves and searches for answers to this tragedy. The authorities plan to set up a retraining program for those involved in fuel smuggling in order to offer legal and secure alternatives. This event highlights the need to combat illicit activities and foster an inclusive economy to prevent such disasters.

In Gabon, prosecutions against the former leaders of the deposed regime continue. After the incarceration of Noureddin Bongo, son of Ali Bongo, three other personalities were placed in detention. Among them, a former Minister of Oil, a former Minister of Public Works and an economic operator. The accusations against them are varied, ranging from embezzlement of public funds to corruption. These arrests demonstrate the desire of the new Gabonese authorities to shed light on past acts of corruption. However, it is important to remember that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty. This affair continues to arouse the interest of the population, who hope to see political renewal and more transparent governance in the country.

In Denise Époté’s show “Les têtes d’annonce” on TV5 Monde, two Congolese initiatives were highlighted: the fight against sickle cell anemia through the use of plants, and the production of a respectful meat substitute of the environment. Pius Mpiana is working on plant-based treatments to relieve symptoms of sickle cell disease, while Arsel Kabeya offers a meat substitute made from legumes. These initiatives illustrate the importance of innovation and commitment in the face of current health and environmental challenges. The media plays a key role in highlighting these initiatives, and it is essential to support and encourage them.

Portrait of Mamadou Bah: when the passion for basketball and fashion meet

Mamadou Bah, a native of Conakry in Guinea, has had an exceptional journey becoming a key figure in fashion and basketball in the United States. Despite an accident which ended his career as a basketball player, he was able to reinvent himself by launching into fashion. Thanks to his brand, C’est Bon, Mamadou managed to convince NBA stars to wear his creations, which earned him international recognition. His inspiring story demonstrates the keys to success: passion, audacity and hard work.

The article highlights the initiative of the “Jeunesse Sénégal” association with its “Summer Guedbeach” program which aims to offer young people from Guediawaye, a suburb of Dakar, a secure leisure space during the summer holidays. The main objective is to entertain young people and keep them away from sea-related risks, such as illegal migration and drowning accidents. This initiative has been a great success and the Senegal Youth Consortium plans to extend it to other regions of the country. The residents of Guediawaye welcome this initiative which allows young people to be occupied and protected from the dangers of the sea. In summary, the “Summer Guediaway” initiative offers the young people of Guediawaye the opportunity to flourish in a secure and to strengthen social ties within the community.