16 November 2023

– The Trans-Kalahari Railway Project Management Office says 12 companies have shown interest in funding the feasibility study as well as developing the new Trans-Kalahari railway corridor between Namibia and Botswana. Online Magazine, The Brief reports that the project is expected to cost around US$10 billion and will connect the two countries’ rail networks, providing a vital link for trade and transportation. – The Brief

– Four opposition politicians in Zambia – including a former justice minister – have been arrested by police over the last 24 hours for various offences, fuelling concerns that democracy is under threat. Emmanuel Mwamba of the main opposition Patriotic Front (PF) was detained following a Facebook post in which he called for anti-government demonstrations. – BBC

– The US and China have agreed to resume military-to-military communications in an effort to ease rising tensions, President Joe Biden says. – BBC

– The Democratic Republic of Congo began their 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-0 victory over Mauritania. The nine group winners in African qualification will qualify automatically for the expanded 48-team tournament in Canada, Mexico and the United States. – BBC Sport

– Moderate to heavy falls with hailstorms are most likey in the Erongo, Otjozondjupa, Omaheke and South-eastern regions.