Report Calls Zambia?s Prisons ?Death Traps?

Prisoners are required to work seven days a week for no pay, cell captains beat those seen as working too slowly, and water or toilets are often unavailable, according to Human Rights Watch and two other groups.

U.S. Envoy to Sudan Urges Focus on Political Future

Maj. Gen. Scott Gration, the administration?s special envoy to Sudan, said the United States should turn its attention to getting southern Sudan ready for its likely future as an independent state.

Bashir Wins Election as Sudan Edges Toward Split

The results showed a lopsided victory for President Omar Hassan al-Bashir in what could be a step toward Sudan?s breakup.

In Niger, China Fortifies Its Reputation as Africa?s Investor

China is sealing its reputation as Africa?s behind-the-scenes force, ready to do business regardless of who is in power or whatever outrage exists about it.

South Africa Unleashes Plan to Slow AIDS Crisis

The country is in the midst of a buildup of testing, treatment and prevention to expand its AIDS services.