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The LeadMadagascar has long been celebrated for its remarkable wildlife, with the vast majority of its species found nowhere else on the planet. But when discussing the island nation's endemic treasures, fungi are often left out of the conversation, despite their critical importance to life on Earth.The Fungal Frontier"Fungi are some of the most important things in the world," says Anna Ralaiveloarisoa, a Malagasy scientist and the first homegrown mycologist in Madagascar. "They feed 90% of terrestrial plants. Without them, there is no life on the Earth." Ralaiveloarisoa is working to classify each of the 200 new species she has identified so far, though she faces significant challenges: trying to preserve mushrooms without proper infrastructure; journeying to remote spots in the jungle without reliable roads or electricity; and having no other experts to collaborate with in the country.Less than 1% of the estimated 100,000 species of fungi in Madagascar have been scientifically described, highlighting the vast unknown territory that remains to be explored.The Conservation MovementAcross the globe, protecting fungi has lagged significantly behind the conservation of plants and animals. While the first organisations dedicated to protecting birds were established in the 19th century, fungi had to wait until the 21st century. The International Society for Fungal Conservation (ISFC) was established in 2010, and the first conservation nonprofit organisation, the Fungi Foundation, was created in 2012.Since those groups were established, a global movement has emerged. The first conservation legislation to include fungi was passed in Chile in 2013. The Fungi Foundation began to champion the phrase "fauna, flora, funga" to encourage fungi's inclusion in more conservation frameworks.The African ConnectionThough the obstacles are significant, they are ones Ralaiveloarisoa shares with many mycologists in nearby nations. She is part of an emerging cohort of scientists across Africa who are pioneering the study and conservation of fungi in their home countries.Last November, many met for the first time at the International Congress on Fungal Conservation, held in Cotonou, Benin. The conference drew mycologists from 27 countries across Africa, Europe, the Americas and Asia, with several hailing from African countries where they serve as the only – or one of very few – mycologists in the nation."What an exciting time: from almost nothing 20 years ago, fungal conservation has evolved from a little-known field into a dynamic global movement," said Nourou Yorou, a mycologist who was recently named general director of the Benin Agency for Science and Innovation. "The challenge is now to plan a future where fungi are firmly placed in the conservation mainstream."The Future OutlookThe momentum behind fungal conservation continues to grow. Other organisations have formed: in 2017, North America's first fungal conservation nonprofit group, Fundis, was created; in 2021, the research organisation SPUN (Society for the Protection of Underground Networks) was cofounded by the evolutionary biologist Toby Kiers.Later this year, the "fungal conservation pledge" first proposed at the UN biodiversity meeting of Cop16 in Colombia in 2024 will be discussed again at the forthcoming biodiversity conference in Armenia. As David Minter, president of the ISFC, notes: "In 2010, it was normal not to mention fungi at all in conservation ... In the future it will look strange if fungi don't get a mention."

Nigerian authorities have formally charged six individuals with terrorism and treason in connection with an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu, marking a significant escalation in the country's political landscape. The charges, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, include high-ranking military and police figures, with one key suspect still at large. Key Developments The six individuals charged include retired Major-General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani. All are currently in custody, while former Bayelsa State Governor Timipre Sylva, accused of helping conceal the plot, remains at large. The charges stem from an alleged conspiracy "to wage war against the state to overthrow the president" and to commit acts of terrorism, with Colonel Mohammed Alhassan Ma'aji reportedly serving as the "mastermind" of the plot. The situation began in 2025 when 16 military officers were arrested for "acts of indiscipline and breaches of service regulations," which sparked rumors of a coup plot that the government initially denied. Following these arrests, President Tinubu reshuffled the country's top military leadership. The government later reversed its position, announcing that the military would try several officers for planning "to overthrow the government." Why This Matters This alleged coup plot holds significant implications for Nigeria's democratic stability and regional security. As Africa's most populous nation and largest economy, Nigeria has maintained relative political stability since transitioning to democracy in 1999, experiencing no successful coups during this period. The emergence of this alleged plot challenges this stability and could embolden political opposition groups. Regionally, this development occurs amid a concerning trend of military takeovers in West and Central Africa, with recent coups in Benin and Guinea-Bissau. These events follow patterns of disputed elections, constitutional upheaval, security crises, and youth discontent that have destabilized several African nations. For Nigeria, such instability could have profound economic consequences, potentially affecting its oil-dependent economy and regional influence. Expert Insight The timing of these charges appears strategic, coming as Nigeria faces multiple security challenges including insurgencies in the northeast, farmer-herder conflicts in the central regions, and separatist movements in the southeast. The government's decision to pursue high-level charges rather than handle the matter internally suggests a desire to demonstrate strength and deter potential dissent. The inclusion of both retired and serving military personnel in the charges indicates a deep penetration of alleged dissent within Nigeria's security apparatus. This could signal broader institutional challenges within the military, which has traditionally been a pillar of Nigerian governance. The government's initial denial followed by formal charges also reflects the political sensitivity of the situation and the challenges of maintaining narrative control in an era of rapid information dissemination. What Happens Next The legal proceedings against the six charged individuals will be closely watched as they unfold in the Federal High Court. The outcome could set precedents for how the government handles internal security threats and political dissent. If convicted, the accused could face severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences or even the death penalty, which could further polarize Nigerian politics. The government will likely continue efforts to root out alleged dissidents within the military and security services, potentially leading to further reshuffles and personnel changes. Regionally, Nigeria's response to this alleged coup plot will be scrutinized by neighboring countries facing similar challenges, with potential implications for regional security cooperation. The international community, including regional bodies like the African Union and ECOWAS, will be monitoring the situation closely, particularly given Nigeria's strategic importance in Africa. Any signs of escalating political instability could trigger diplomatic interventions or increased international scrutiny of Nigeria's democratic processes.

Benin’s presidential contest is tilting decisively toward the incumbent government’s nominee, Romuald Wadagni, after his only challenger, Paul Hounkpe of the Cowry Forces for an Emerging Benin party, publicly acknowledged defeat on national television. Hounkpe’s concession, aired on Monday, included a call for “republican congratulations” and a reminder that democratic health depends on mutual respect across partisan lines, as reported by AFP. Currently serving as foreign minister, Wadagni is the designated successor of President Patrice Talon, who is stepping down after two consecutive five‑year terms. The election follows a turbulent period marked by a foiled coup in late 2025, which was suppressed with the aid of Nigerian forces. Out of an electorate of nearly 8 million eligible voters, early voting proceeded at a modest pace, according to Al Jazeera correspondent Ahmed Idris reporting from Cotonou. Hounkpe’s campaign highlighted that despite a robust 7.5% GDP growth in 2024, the benefits have not sufficiently improved living standards, pointing to persistent poverty rates exceeding 30% and limited trickle‑down of economic gains. In contrast, Wadagni pledged to focus on essential services such as water access, expanded social security, and improved healthcare, positioning himself as a continuity candidate for the ruling coalition. The finance minister, who previously led the polls, was widely expected to prevail after the main opposition party, the Democrats, failed to nominate a candidate and declined to endorse Hounkpe. The Democrats also fell short of the 20% threshold needed for parliamentary representation in the January 2026 elections, securing only about 16% of the vote. Security concerns loom large for the incoming administration. The northern region continues to grapple with insurgent activity from the al‑Qaeda affiliate Jama’at Nusrat al‑Islam wal‑Muslimin (JNIM), which has inflicted heavy casualties on the military, including an attack last year that killed 54 soldiers and another incident in March that claimed 15 lives. These challenges are compounded by broader instability across the Sahel, where a succession of coups in neighboring states such as Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali has heightened regional volatility. While Wadagni’s ascent promises policy continuity, the new president will need to address both the security vacuum in the north and the socioeconomic gap that leaves a third of Benin’s population in poverty despite recent economic growth.

Polls have closed in Benin, with Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni expected to emerge victorious in the presidential election. Wadagni received the endorsement of former President Patrice Talon, who is stepping down after two five-year terms.Nearly eight million voters were eligible to cast ballots on Sunday to choose a successor to Talon. Wadagni, 49, faces a crucial factor in voter turnout after a lackluster campaign affected by voter apathy.In Benin’s largest city, Cotonou, vote counting began late on Sunday afternoon, with provisional results expected on Tuesday. Wadagni is being challenged by Paul Hounkpe, an opposition figure whose campaign has needed help from majority lawmakers to gain parliamentary endorsements.Under Talon, Benin has experienced rapid growth, with gross domestic product (GDP) doubling during his decade in power and numerous infrastructure projects completed. However, a wealth gap remains, and the winner of the vote will also face challenges with insecurity, particularly in the north of the country.The north of Benin has increasingly experienced violence from armed fighters from the Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), an al-Qaeda affiliate that has spilled over from the Sahel region.

Benin's presidential election is a significant event in the country's democratic journey. The election process is crucial in determining the nation's leadership and future direction.The country's democratic institutions and electoral processes are under scrutiny as the nation heads to the polls. Transparency and fairness are key concerns for both local and international observers.Benin's experience with democracy is influential in the region, serving as a model or a cautionary tale for other West African nations. Electoral reforms and political stability are critical factors in the country's development trajectory.

Benin is voting in its presidential election, with long-serving Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni poised to win in the absence of a major challenger. Polls opened at 7am (06:00 GMT) on Sunday and will close at 4pm (15:00 GMT).More than 7.9 million people are registered to vote, including 62,000 in the diaspora. Wadagni, a 49-year-old former Deloitte executive, is backed by the two main parties in the governing coalition and the outgoing president, Patrice Talon.Wadagni is being challenged by Paul Hounkpe, an opposition figure and former culture minister, whose campaign has been low-key. The new president will have to address major challenges, including a huge gap between the poor and well-off, with the poverty rate estimated at more than 30 percent.Benin’s economic growth will also depend on improving security and stabilising the country, particularly in the north where JNIM, an al-Qaeda affiliate, has made major gains. Wadagni has promised to deliver on bread-and-butter issues like expanding access to potable water and guaranteeing emergency healthcare.Provisional results are expected on Tuesday, with many people expressing concerns about the election process. Some voters have spoken of the presidential election as a formality and urged Wadagni to deliver on his platform, including promoting job opportunities for young people and improving security in the north.

Benin is set to choose a new head of state on Sunday, April 12, 2026, in an election that appears to favor the governing coalition’s nominee, finance minister Romuald Wadagni. The 49‑year‑old, a former Deloitte executive, has been hand‑picked by outgoing President Patrice Talon, who is constitutionally barred from seeking a third term after a decade in power. With roughly eight million eligible voters on the rolls, the contest requires a candidate to secure more than 50 % of the vote; otherwise a runoff would be scheduled for May 10. In practice, only two names appear on the ballot: Wadagni, representing the Progressive Union Renewal‑Republican Bloc alliance, and Paul Hounkpe, the 56‑year‑old former teacher and culture minister who runs under the Cowry Forces for an Emerging Benin (FCBE) banner. Wadagni’s campaign emphasizes continuity of Talon’s economic reforms. Under Talon, Benin’s budget tripled and the country posted its strongest GDP growth in over twenty years, with the International Monetary Fund estimating a 7 % expansion in 2025. Investment in trade, agriculture and the Cotonou port has driven this performance, though benefits remain uneven, especially in the poorer northern regions. Security concerns dominate the northern frontier, where al‑Qaeda and IS‑linked militias from the Sahel have intensified cross‑border raids. Recent attacks by the JNIM network killed 54 soldiers in 2025 and another 15 in early 2026. A failed coup attempt in December 2025, allegedly motivated by neglect of troops in the north, left about 100 suspects awaiting trial. Wadagni has pledged to create municipal police forces to protect border towns, while Hounkpe warns that the current administration has sidelined citizens despite macro‑economic gains. Beyond economics and security, the election raises questions about Benin’s democratic health. Talon’s government has been criticized for suppressing protests, extending presidential terms from five to seven years, and enabling the president to appoint Senate members—moves that have effectively eliminated opposition representation. In the January parliamentary vote, Talon’s allies captured all 109 seats, and the main opposition party, the Democrats, failed to field a presidential candidate. Observers note that voter turnout will be a key barometer of public sentiment. The last presidential election saw only about 50 % participation. Al Jazeera reporter Ahmed Idris described the atmosphere at a governing‑party rally in Cotonou as “lively,” but cautioned that it may not reflect the broader mood in a nation where democratic space appears to be shrinking. Should Wadagni win, he pledges to build on a decade of “economic transformation,” expanding development hubs and healthcare access while maintaining fiscal discipline. Hounkpe, positioned as a moderate alternative, promises to lower basic commodity prices and secure the release of political prisoners detained under Talon’s rule. The outcome will shape Benin’s trajectory at a critical juncture: balancing sustained economic growth, confronting escalating security threats from the Sahel, and navigating the tension between authoritarian tendencies and the country’s reputation as one of West Africa’s more stable democracies.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) released a comprehensive report titled None Can Run Away, concluding that Burkina Faso’s military, its allied Volunteers for the Defence of the Homeland (VDPs), and the al‑Qaeda‑linked Jama’at Nusrat al‑Islam wa al‑Muslimin (JNIM) have perpetrated war crimes and crimes against humanity since the coup that brought the junta to power in September 2022. Through in‑person and telephone interviews with more than 450 witnesses across Burkina Faso, Benin, Ivory Coast, Ghana and Mali, HRW verified 57 distinct incidents involving wilful killing, attacks on civilians and civilian objects, pillage, looting, and forced displacement. The report estimates that 1,837 civilians were killed between January 2023 and August 2025, with over 1,200 deaths directly linked to government forces. The United Nations estimates that the conflict has displaced approximately two million people, underscoring a humanitarian crisis of regional magnitude. Among the deadliest attacks, the military and VDP militias slaughtered more than 400 civilians across 16 villages near the northern town of Djibo in December 2023. In November 2023, allied militias killed 13 Fulani civilians—including six women and four children—in the western village of Basse, employing methods described by survivors as “blindfolded, hands tied, and riddled with bullets.” JNIM’s own atrocities were highlighted by the August 24, 2024 massacre in Barsalogho, where at least 133 civilians, many of them children, were shot indiscriminately. HRW’s findings point to a systematic targeting of the Fulani ethnic group, whom the junta accuses of supporting armed insurgents, resulting in what the report characterises as an ethnic cleansing of entire communities. HRW calls for urgent investigations into President Ibrahim Traoré, the supreme commander of the armed forces, and six senior military commanders for “grave abuses.” The organization also urges scrutiny of Iyad Ag Ghaly, JNIM’s supreme leader wanted by the International Criminal Court, and four of his commanders under the principle of command responsibility. “The scale of atrocities taking place in Burkina Faso is mind‑boggling, as is the lack of global attention to this crisis,” said Philippe Bolopion, executive director of HRW. “The junta is committing horrific abuses itself, failing to hold those responsible on all sides to account, and curtailing reporting to obscure the suffering of civilians caught in the violence.” Survivors recount harrowing details: a 41‑year‑old father described his son’s body “shot in the back of the neck,” while a 39‑year‑old witness to the Barsalogho attack said, “People were falling like flies. They came to exterminate us. They did not spare anyone.” These revelations amplify calls from the international community for accountability and for renewed humanitarian assistance to the millions displaced by the protracted Sahel conflict.