From east to west Africa, a rise in religious extremism has led to a surge in deadly attacks and kidnappings by groups linked to al-Qaeda.

Israel's officials are trying to convince legendary US film-maker Woody Allen to set a movie in the holy city of Jerusalem.

China's anti-doping head has said he was "shocked" after an anti-doping agency alleged the country produces large amounts of illegal substances.

The attack on Mali's president Diancounda Traore by angry protesters puts the post-coup transition in the West African country in danger, the UN says.

Advocate Mo Ibrahim says Zimbabwe should be a powerhouse in Africa but its stagnant political leadership under Robert Mugabe is holding it back.

Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe has vowed to overhaul business laws to require 100% black ownership of firms, up from 51%.

Palestine on Wednesday night asked the UN Security Council to act to halt Israel's military operation in Gaza.

Legal eagle Barry Roux who is defending Oscar Pistorius in his murder charge has emerged as the star of the world headline grabbing case.