ALGIERS--From an acute shortage of regional staple couscous to a surge of confidence tricks and counterfeiting, authorities in North Africa have been busy tackling coronavirus challenges that go beyond healthcare. In recent weeks, Algeria’s more than 40 million people have been facing a severe shortage of couscous semolina after rumours spread on social media sparked panic buying. Dozens of people have been questioned in Morocco over accusations of spreading “false rumours” linked to the coronavirus pandemic on social media. But the measure only applied to Blida — the main virus hot spot, near the capital Algiers. Some Algerian media outlets have warned of the risks to freedom of press and expression.

Source: The North Africa Journal April 13, 2020 12:33 UTC