South Africa

As the omicron coronavirus variant spreads in southern Africa and pops up in countries all around the world, scientists are anxiously watching a battle play out that could determine the future of the pandemic.

JOHANNESBURG (AP) -- The Botswana scientist who may well have discovered the omicron variant of the coronavirus says he has been on a "rollercoaster of emotions," with the pride of accomplishment followed by dismay over the travel bans immediately slapped on southern African countries.

THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) -- South African scientists are warning that reinfections among people who've already battled COVID-19 appear to be more likely with the new omicron variant than with earlier coronavirus mutants.

Brazil's Ministry of Health on Thursday confirmed two more cases of the new variant of the coronavirus omicron in the country.They are two people who boarded in South Africa, passed through Ethiopia, landed in Guarulhos, and finally arrived in Brasilia.

They both carved out sterling reputations as military and political leaders over years of public service. But both also saw their legacies tarnished by the long, bloody war in Iraq.Former Secretary of State Colin Powell and former Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld are among the many noteworthy people who died in 2021.