AU - Africanews

1. Masked men abduct prominent Malian lawyer in Bamako

   A well-known Malian lawyer and politician critical of the ruling junta was abducted overnight by masked men in the capital Bamako, members of his family told AFP Sunday.

2. Taiwan President Lai Ching-te tours Eswatini amid diplomatic support

   Taiwan President Lai Ching-te arrived in Eswatini on Saturday for a state visit to bolster ties with one of its few remaining diplomatic allies despite growing international pressure from China.

3. In Gaza, handmade dolls offer comfort to children after years of war

   After years of war and restrictions in Gaza, a mother of five has turned to making dolls to bring comfort to children who have lost their toys in the devastation.

4. New Orleans’ Audubon Zoo welcomes vulnerable zebra species

   For the first time, Audubon Zoo in New Orleans welcomed three Hartmann’s mountain zebras last week. This species is rarely seen in human care as there are just 80 of these zebras across 20 facilities accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

5. The Oscars are drawing a new line on artificial intelligence

   For the first time, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has introduced rules addressing the use of AI in films eligible for the 2027 Academy Awards.