A migrant boat carrying 84 people capsized off the Canary Islands, resulting in at least nine deaths and 48 missing individuals. Spanish authorities are conducting search operations, but hopes of finding more survivors are slim. This incident marks the deadliest sinking in Spanish waters since 2014. The route from West Africa to the Canary Islands has seen increased migration since 2020, with approximately 29,500 migrants making the journey this year, double the number from the same period last year.

Amadou Mahtar M’Bow, the first Black African to lead a major international organization, passed away at 103. His leadership of UNESCO was marked by controversy, leading to the withdrawal of the United States and Britain due to his resistance to Western influences and accusations of mismanagement. His tenure was characterized by efforts to address Western cultural dominance, but also faced criticism for threatening press freedom. The U.S. withdrawal significantly impacted UNESCO's budget, highlighting issues of U.N. inefficiency and politicization.

LeBron James, at 39, prepares for his first Olympics in 12 years, reflecting on his journey from a hesitant teenager to a global basketball ambassador. His influence has significantly contributed to the international popularity of basketball, with fans worldwide admiring his talent and personal story. As he leads the U.S. men's basketball team in the Paris Games, his presence continues to market the sport effectively.

Ruth Maclean, the West Africa bureau chief for The New York Times, covers 25 countries from her base in Senegal, focusing on daily life, culture, politics, and conflicts. With a background in journalism from the UK and extensive experience in West Africa since 2016, she is dedicated to ethical journalism and improving media coverage of Africa. She has previously worked for The Guardian and The Times of London.

Bassirou Diomaye Faye, a 44-year-old tax inspector, has been elected as Senegal's youngest president, riding a wave of youth discontent. His journey from a small village to the presidency includes a stint in jail for supporting opposition leader Ousmane Sonko. Faye's background is rooted in Senegalese traditions and Islamic faith, with a family history of political activism. His election campaign, closely tied to Sonko, emphasized Senegal's sovereignty from France and transparency in politics. Faye's relatable background and commitment to social justice have resonated with many Senegalese citizens.

Senegal is holding a presidential election that was almost canceled by the incumbent president, Macky Sall, who later reversed his decision. The election is seen as a chance for significant political and economic change, especially among the youth. Key figures include opposition leader Ousmane Sonko and his candidate Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who have garnered strong support from young voters. The election is marked by high turnout and a sense of relief that it is proceeding. The country faces challenges such as poverty and unemployment, and the outcome may impact foreign investment and economic progress.

Two opposition politicians, Ousmane Sonko and Bassirou Diomaye Faye, were released from jail in Senegal just 10 days before a nationwide election. Their release led to celebrations in Dakar. The incumbent president, Macky Sall, had previously canceled the election citing corruption allegations but reversed his decision following backlash. Sall confirmed he would step down after his term ends, maintaining Senegal's democratic stance amidst regional instability.

Senegal's Parliament voted to delay elections until December following a contentious session where opposition lawmakers were expelled. President Macky Sall's decision to postpone the election, initially set for February 25, has been condemned as a power grab. The government took measures to prevent protests, including cutting internet access and deploying security forces. Despite some isolated protests, the streets of Dakar remained largely quiet. Critics argue that the postponement is a manufactured crisis to extend Sall's presidency.

Senegal's President Macky Sall has indefinitely postponed the national election, citing a dispute between the legislative and judicial branches. Critics, including Amnesty International's Ousmane Diallo, accuse him of orchestrating a coup to halt the electoral process. The controversy centers around the disqualification of candidates with dual nationality, notably Karim Wade, leading to allegations of judicial corruption and a manufactured crisis.

Moustapha Diouf, a Senegalese migrant who witnessed the deaths of 10 fellow migrants at sea, has dedicated his life to dissuading others from making the perilous journey to Europe. Despite his efforts through the nonprofit AJRAP, which he co-founded, and his attempts to seek support from high-profile figures, including the Senegalese president and the European Union, he faces significant challenges. The resurgence of migration attempts, driven by economic hardship and lack of local opportunities, underscores the ongoing crisis. Diouf's story highlights the dire situation in Senegal, where young people feel compelled to migrate despite the dangers, and the insufficient support from both local and international authorities.