Africa in 2015: A New Year’s Guide

News and politics rest for no man, not even weary journalists or the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ, and while millions of Africans were celebrating the festive season, the continent continued on its merry way. If you were lucky enough to switch off the outside world for a week or two, here's a round-up of what's been making headlines to ensure you don't start the new year on the back foot – and a peek at what's waiting for Africa in 2015. By SIMON ALLISON.