Kenya Politics & Economy: President William Ruto tells the opposition it lacks a development agenda, arguing critics focus on nicknames instead of solutions. South Africa Cost of Living: President Cyril Ramaphosa urges South Africans to “tighten the belt” as Middle East conflict pushes up oil and fertiliser costs, threatening jobs and growth. Trade & Supply Chains: China’s zero-tariff policy for African countries is set to boost export competitiveness and deepen value-chain integration. Maritime Security: Nigeria calls for stronger partnerships among African navies to protect sea lines of communication and keep trade moving. Food Security Risk: A focus on the Gulf crisis highlights how fuel and fertiliser disruptions can hit African harvests and food inflation. AI & Investment: Naspers jumps after Tencent signals more AI agent activity, reinforcing investor appetite for African-linked tech exposure. Finance & Inclusion: Nigeria makes history with WIPO’s first Sub-Saharan Africa office in Abuja, aiming to accelerate innovation and intellectual property commercialization. SME Payments: Yoco and stub integrate payments with accounting to automate reconciliations for South African independent businesses. Clean Mobility: Spiro secures $215m to expand electric mobility and battery-swapping infrastructure across Africa. Health Policy: WHO warns nicotine and tobacco firms are targeting young Africans with new products and marketing tactics. Agribusiness: Kenya flower growers push buyers for fairer pricing as costs rise. Regional Governance: SADC reappoints Stanley Ndara to lead the fisheries surveillance board to curb illegal fishing.