AU - Africanews

1. New WTO report: high oil, gas prices serious challenge for trade growth

   The World Trade Organization warned Thursday that prolonged high oil and gas prices in 2026 would "shave off" growth from an already grim trade forecast.

2. Burkina Faso’s tomato export ban raises concerns over regional supply

   Burkina Faso’s decision to ban the export of fresh tomatoes is drawing attention across West Africa, with traders and consumers watching closely for possible effects on supply and prices.

3. Nowruz in Tehran: Crowded markets dispte ongoing airstrikes

   Iran’s capital Tehran showed signs of cautious activity on 19 March 2026 as residents prepared for Nowruz, despite ongoing US-Israeli strikes that have disrupted daily life since 28 February.

4. Nowruz in London: Iranian diaspora marks spring amid grief over war in Iran

   Members of the Iranian diaspora in north London gathered on 20 March to mark Nowruz, the Persian New Year, despite concern over the ongoing war in Iran.

5. Madagascar’s president orders polygraph for aspiring ministers

   Madagascar's military leader, President Michael Randrianirina, announced Thursday that anyone applying to become a minister in the new government will undergo lie detector tests to screen for corruption—a rare and unprecedented vetting measure.