An escalation of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine could send already soaring food prices even higher, especially for countries — like Egypt — that heavily rely on the two countries’ grain imports, the New York Times reports. Higher prices would in turn impact food security for low income families in North Africa, the Telegraph reports. We imported around 50% of our wheat from Russia last year, while 30% came from Ukraine.

Also making headlines:

• The demolition of thousands of homes to make way for new construction threatens to alienate lower and middle class neighborhoods whose inhabitants are being displaced. (The Africa Report)
• EU backs Italy on Regeni investigation: The EU is requesting that Egyptian authorities cooperate with their Italian counterparts in the investigation into Giulio Regeni’s death. (Ansa Med)