On VOA 60: U.S. officials continue talks with Africa trade ministers in South Africa’s most populous city, Johannesburg, amid calls for the U.S. to reauthorize the African Growth and Opportunity Act, AGOA. Plus, King Charles met Kenyan religious leaders on Friday to promote peace and security in the East African nation’s coastal city of Mombasa as he leader wrapped up his four-day visit to the nation. This and other African related news updates on today’s VOA 60! | VOA Africa

Africa faced multiple coup d’états, conflict, and increased influence in investment and infrastructure from countries like China and Russia. What were the biggest issues impacting Africans on the continent in 2023? VOA’s Vincent Makori spoke to Kwaku Nuamah, a professor at American University in Washington, for a look back on what challenged Africa in 2023 and what may lie ahead in the coming year. Viewers also shared their thoughts about what’s in store for the continent for 2024. | VOA Africa

The capital city of Ethiopia’s Tigray region, Mekelle, Friday was blasted after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government informed citizens that action will be taken to “target the military forces,” in reference to TPLF rebels who recently accused Ahmed’s government of re-igniting the conflict. | VOA Africa