VOA Africa News Summary

Here are today's top stories from VOA Africa. To listen or watch one of our programs or to read more visit our website at www.voaafrica.com.

UN Says Somalis in South Are Severely Malnourished Report blames humanitarian crisis on combination of factors, including poor rains, disruptions in trade caused by ongoing conflict in Mogadishu, and hyperinflation Nigeria Issues Toothpaste Ban Ban on foreign-manufactured toothpaste was prompted by recent discovery that some China-produced pastes contained toxic substance Diethylene glycol West Africans Seek Shelter from Floods, Brace for More For the past few weeks, pounding rains across Sub-Saharan Africa have killed about 100 people and destroyed tens of thousands of homes, leaving many families homeless Southern African Leaders Announce New Peacekeeping Force Host country Zambia's President, Levy Mwanawasa, welcomes creation of force saying 'scourge' of conflicts in Africa impedes social, economic development Rainy Season Puts Damper on Violence in Eastern Chad Muddy roads prevent movement of many armed groups, but also hinders humanitarian operations Apartheid-Era Minister Pleads Guilty of Attempted Murder Former Law and Order Minister Adriaan Vlok, former Police Commissioner Johan van der Merwe given suspended 10-year sentences Analyst Weighs Options of Possible Runoff Election in Sierra Leone Activist says any runoff election in Sierra Leone might take place along tribal and regional lines U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Visits Africa Leavitt's visit will take him to South Africa, Mozambique, Tanzania, and Rwanda where he will observe how U.S.-sponsored health programs are working Uganda's Govt to Begin Consultations Over Peace Talks With Rebels Uganda's government will soon begin a nationwide public debate as part of its consultation efforts to get public input.