November 2024 News Round‑up
Welcome to the November archive of Eco News Africa. We’ve pulled together the most talked‑about stories that shaped the continent this month. From big security crackdowns to exciting sports moments, there’s a lot to catch up on. Grab a coffee and see what happened across Africa in November 2024.
Security and Politics
Interpol teamed up with Afripol for Operation Serengeti, a massive cybercrime sweep across 19 African nations. The joint effort led to over a thousand arrests and took down more than 134,000 malicious servers tied to ransomware and online scams. It’s a clear signal that trans‑national crime groups are feeling the heat.
While cyber threats were being tackled, a Spirit Airlines flight was hit by gunfire as it tried to land in Haiti. The aircraft landed safely with no injuries, but the incident highlighted the growing security risks at Haitian airports and the broader instability in the region.
In the United States, the 2024 presidential race heated up as Donald Trump and Kamala Harris campaigned hard in Rust Belt battlegrounds like Pennsylvania and Michigan. Both candidates made sharp attacks on each other’s records, and voter turnout surged, making the election a nail‑biter for both sides.
Back in Africa, Botswana’s latest election showed the ruling Botswana Democratic Party trailing for the first time in decades. Opposition parties, especially the Umbrella for Democratic Change, gained ground in urban areas, suggesting a possible shift in the country’s political landscape.
Sports and Entertainment
Italian tennis star Jannik Sinner took the ATP Finals title in Turin, capping a historic year with an eighth trophy. At just 23, Sinner’s flawless performance, winning every set, put him in conversation with the sport’s legends and gave fans a new hero to cheer for.
German‑Nigerian defender Felix Uduokhai announced his switch to Nigeria’s Super Eagles, adding depth to the national team’s back line. His European experience is expected to bolster Nigeria’s defense as they prepare for upcoming qualifiers and tournaments.
Netflix’s second season of Arcane wowed viewers with stunning animation and layered storytelling. The show dives deeper into trauma and power dynamics while expanding its richly built world, making it a must‑watch for both fans of the first season and newcomers alike.
Cricket fans got their fix with the second ODI between Australia and Pakistan at the Adelaide Oval. The match featured tight bowling spells, a fierce chase, and standout performances from Steven Smith and Babar Azam, keeping the series exciting and unpredictable.
In a lighter note, 43 monkeys escaped from a medical testing lab in South Carolina, prompting a swift, coordinated effort to round them up. Authorities assured the public there was no danger, but the incident sparked discussions about lab security and animal welfare.
All these stories, plus many more, show how November 2024 was a month of action, change, and entertainment across Africa and beyond. Stay tuned to Eco News Africa for deeper dives and updates on these topics as they develop.
Interpol and Afripol Unite in Operation Serengeti to Unveil Cybercrime in Africa
In a significant stride against cybercrime, Interpol has partnered with Afripol and other private security partners to execute Operation Serengeti across 19 African nations. The operation led to 1,006 arrests and dismantled 134,089 malicious infrastructures linked to ransomware, online scams, and digital extortion. With millions of dollars in potential losses thwarted, the operation marks a notable strike against evolving cybercriminal networks.
Jannik Sinner Crowned ATP Finals Champion: A Historic Year for Italian Tennis
Jannik Sinner's triumphant ascent in the world of tennis reached new heights with his ATP Finals victory in Turin. At just 23, Sinner secured his status as a legendary player by defeating Taylor Fritz in a remarkable match, marking his eighth title of an incredible year. He delivered a flawless performance, winning every set in the tournament, a historic feat not seen since 1986. Sinner's achievements place him among tennis greats like Djokovic and Federer.
Tulsi Gabbard: Controversial Nomination for Director of National Intelligence Raises Questions
President Trump has nominated Tulsi Gabbard for the Director of National Intelligence, a role overseeing 18 U.S. intelligence agencies. Known for her critical stance on U.S. foreign policy, Gabbard's nomination is controversial because of her limited intelligence experience and divisive past statements. Her confirmation will require Senate approval, with debates expected around her qualifications and the role's impact on national security.
Security Concerns Rise as Spirit Airlines Plane Targeted by Gunfire During Haiti Landing
In a shocking incident that underscores the escalating security issues in Haiti, a Spirit Airlines plane was fired upon while landing at the country's international airport. The event, which occurred on November 12, 2024, saw the aircraft being hit by gunfire yet managing to land safely, with no injuries reported. The attack appears to be unprecedented, and the motives remain unclear, highlighting the ongoing political instability and violence plaguing Haiti.
Felix Uduokhai's Shift: A Welcome Addition to Nigeria's Super Eagles Defensive Line
Felix Uduokhai, a former defender for Germany's U23 team, has made the significant decision to switch allegiance and play for Nigeria's Super Eagles. He has confirmed his readiness to join the Nigerian national team, driven by a desire to reconnect with his roots and make substantial contributions. His experience in European football is seen as a valuable asset for the team as they aim to reinforce their defense.
Arcane Season 2 Review: Exquisite Storytelling and Unmatched World-Building
Netflix's second season of Arcane delivers an enchanting blend of storytelling and world-building. Picking up from the previous season's explosive finale, it elegantly navigates through themes of trauma, power, and emotion, all while boasting stunning animation and compelling voice performances. This season stands as an unmissable chapter for both fans and newcomers to the series.
Escape from South Carolina: 43 Monkeys Break Free from Medical Testing Lab
In a surprising turn of events, forty-three monkeys made a daring escape from a South Carolina medical testing lab, prompting a swift response from local authorities. While the public was assured of no imminent danger, teams were mobilized to recapture the curious primates. The precise circumstances of their escape and preventative measures remain undisclosed as efforts continue to safely retrieve the animals.
Australia vs Pakistan, 2nd ODI 2024: Live Score, Player Insights, and Match Dynamics
The second ODI between Australia and Pakistan unfolds at Adelaide Oval in a gripping three-match series. Australia holds a 1-0 lead after a challenging first match at the MCG. The showdown sees key players like Steven Smith and Babar Azam in action, with Pakistan opting to bowl first after winning the toss. Will Pakistan bounce back or will Australia seal the series? Enthusiasts get their updates on Star Sports and Disney+Hotstar.
Critical Battleground States Define Intense US Elections 2024 as Trump and Harris Campaign in Rust Belt
As the 2024 US presidential election approaches its decisive end, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump intensify their campaigns across key battleground states. Both candidates target the Rust Belt, emphasizing Pennsylvania and Michigan's significance. Harris commits to addressing the Gaza conflict, appealing to Muslim voters, while Trump criticizes media biases. With high voter turnout, the race remains contentious and closely contested.
Botswana Election Results Raise Opposition Hopes for Political Shift
In Botswana's recent elections, early results suggest a potential shift in power as the longstanding ruling party, Botswana Democratic Party, trails. This has ignited hope among opposition forces, particularly in urban regions, where the Umbrella for Democratic Change's coalition is gaining traction. Factors like economic dissatisfaction have contributed to this shift. The outcome could redefine Botswana’s political scene.