Good morning. Here is your Lesotho Tribune news briefing for Sunday, 17 May 2026.
Africa
Toddlers among more than 50 schoolchildren kidnapped in Nigeria
More than 50 schoolchildren, including toddlers, have been kidnapped in attacks on Mussa town in Nigeria’s Borno state. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the devastating abductions.
Senior IS leader killed in joint operation, US and Nigeria say
A senior Islamic State leader, Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, has been killed in a joint US-Nigeria operation. President Trump described the target as “the most active terrorist in the world.”
New outbreak of Ebola kills 80 in eastern DR Congo
An Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has killed 80 people with approximately 246 cases reported. A case has also been confirmed in neighbouring Uganda, raising regional health concerns.
Former Nigerian minister sentenced to 75 years in rare corruption verdict
Nigeria’s former Power Minister Saleh Mamman has been sentenced to 75 years in prison following a rare corruption conviction. Authorities are currently searching for Mamman as his whereabouts remain unknown.
Activists troll far-right UK rally with giant pro-immigration clip
Activist group Led By Donkeys has projected pro-immigration messages onto a giant screen at a far-right rally in the United Kingdom. The creative protest challenged the rally’s anti-immigration stance with visual counter-messaging.
Tunisians rally amid economic crisis and political arrests
Hundreds of Tunisians have marched through the capital to protest an escalating economic crisis and government crackdown on dissent. The demonstrations reflect growing frustration over Tunisia’s deteriorating economic conditions and political freedoms.
Iraq’s new PM Ali al-Zaidi formally takes over
Iraq’s new Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has formally assumed office in Baghdad and pledged to implement reforms. His appointment marks a new phase in Iraq’s political leadership.
Iran war live: Tehran plans tolls in Hormuz; Trump warns of ‘very bad time’
Iran plans to announce new toll arrangements for the strategic Strait of Hormuz as regional tensions escalate. President Trump has warned of a “very bad time” as Israeli forces continue operations in Lebanon and Gaza, resulting in casualties.
Stay informed. Stay ahead. — The Lesotho Tribune Team
