Europe Sweden Several youths in Vallentuna were poisoned by isopropanol after drinking alcohol bought from a "vodkabil" that they got in touch with via Snapchat; according to Poison Information Centre the substance, used to clean electronics, is dangerous if ingested
America Belize The first case of New World screwworm in humans has been confirmed in Belize; though rare, it is a possible consequence of the spreading of screwworm infections affecting cattle since November 2024
Africa Ivory Coast The Independent Electoral Commission is keeping its doors open with full service schedule over this weekend to favor the reception of candidacy files for the upcoming presidential election scheduled for 25 October
Africa Comoros Over 2.000 people were checked in five days as part of the identity and residence verification operation launched by the Ministry of the Interior: the result is 23 illegal immigrants, eight deportations, and 150 citizens ordered to obtain an identity card
Asia Afghanistan Youth in remote areas of Zabul area demand access to modern education as a key to their future; some teachers have started a few courses in English, with computers, and students are highly motivated; access to education in general remains a key issue
Asia Kyrgyzstan Mandatory tips, a 5-15% ever more often charged separately in restaurant, will be banned in Kyrgyzstan; the practice, authorities affirm, raises concerns in terms of tax regulation, consumer protection, and business transparency
Africa South Sudan Residents of Juba are raising alarm after heavy rains left harvested rainwater appearing black in color, prompting health and environmental concerns as dark, almost charcoal-colored rainwater pooled in containers and drainage ditches across the city
Europe Belgium Three Brussels athletes kitesurfed across the Channel reaching England in less than 5 hours and raising €12.500 for charity; while praising the initiative for its intention, Mobility Ministry stressed sailing without permit is illegal and dangerous
Europe Croatia The acceptance of all shipments of commercial goods bound to the United States, regardless of their value, will be suspended starting 26 August, Croatian Post has announced, except for letters and gifts from and to private individuals under $100 in value
Africa Botswana The possibility of Botswana buying a bigger stake in De Beers mining company is being discussed: it would fulfil the country’s dream of controlling the diamond industry from mine to market and the company’s valuation could be at its cheapest ever
Asia Syria Women in Syria's media face a hostile or unfavorable environment that undermines their presence in the industry; they are expected to maintain far more strict composure and professionalism than men and often face insinuation about their personal life
Africa Mauritius Local potato harvest is underway and from 25 August through December, sales will be limited to the National Wholesale Market, while imports will have to go exclusively through the Agricultural Marketing Board AMB in Moka
Europe Ireland Over 65.000 students received their high school final results; Leaving Cert 2025 highest grade, H1 with a maximum of 625 points, has been achieved by 2,6% less students in what looks to be the first year of normality after post-pandemic adjusted figures
Africa Algeria National Mujaheed Day has been celebrated in the country, commemorating the marking the 70th anniversary of the North Constantine Offensive, a key revolution fight, and the 69th Soummam Congress, the first effort of giving Algeria a new, structured asset