At least 39 people have died after a boat carrying migrants bound for Europe capsized off the coast of Gambia on New Year’s Eve, according to government officials. The vessel, described by survivors as "overcrowded and dilapidated," was attempting the perilous journey from West Africa to Spain via the Canary Islands, a route known as one of the deadliest in the world.

Africa is rapidly emerging as a top global tourism hotspot, with its diverse cultures, extraordinary landscapes, and increasing appeal to international travellers. Reflecting this momentum, TUI Group is strengthening its hotel clusters across the continent with seven new openings across North, West and East Africa. The additions bring the company’s regional portfolio to 106 hotels, reinforcing TUI’s long-term investment in Africa’s fast-growing tourism sector.

Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev congratulated his Gambian counterpart Adama Barrow on the occasion of his country’s national holiday.

Azerbaijan and the Gambia waived mutual visa requirements for holders of the diplomatic passports, News.Az reports.