18 December 2023

– Former South African president Jacob Zuma says he will not vote for the African National Congress (ANC) and is creating a new political party. – BBC

– Stepping into 2024, Africa is emerging as a strong contender in the global petroleum market. Business Express reports that boasting crude oil reserves of approximately 125 billion barrels and natural gas reserves of roughly 620 trillion cubic feet (tcf), Africa’s oil and gas industry holds ambitious plans to deliver economic diversification, job creation and energy security through the development and monetization of these resources. – APO Group

– Record rainfall is causing widespread flooding in far north Queensland, in what authorities expect will be the Australian region’s worst-ever flood. Images from the region show planes submerged at Cairns airport, a crocodile seen in the middle of a town, and people fleeing homes in boats. – BBC

– Harry Kane scored a double to become the quickest player to ever reach 20 Bundesliga goals as Bayern Munich beat fourth-placed Stuttgart. – BBC Sport