Muharram in Madagascar: Shia communities across Iraq, Russia, the U.S., Tanzania and Madagascar have started Muharram mourning ceremonies, with local Islamic centers and communities preparing for Tasu’a and Ashura through gatherings, processions and service programs. Culture & language ties: Madagascar’s higher education ministry says knowledge of Russian is a major advantage for students as the island deepens cooperation with Russia in education and technology, with plans to consider Russian as an academic subject and recent teacher training for Malagasy instructors. Education cooperation: The education minister also met Samara Polytech leadership to expand engineering and educational projects, aiming to open new opportunities for Malagasy pupils and students. International diplomacy: Russia’s foreign minister met Madagascar’s Alice N’Diaye in Moscow, with both sides highlighting cooperation in energy, agriculture, infrastructure, health, mining and education. Sports for women: Madagascar is listed among teams for Botswana’s first Billie Jean King Cup Africa Group III event, set to boost women’s tennis and youth development. Food security pressure: UN food agencies warn acute hunger will worsen in hot spots including Madagascar, driven by conflict, funding gaps and climate shocks. Biodiversity spotlight: Lesser tenrecs from Madagascar are being welcomed into a UK zoo, drawing attention to the island’s unique wildlife and conservation needs.