Arctic Trade & Resources: Russia’s Trans-Arctic Transport Corridor and Northern Sea Route are set to deepen Russia–India ties beyond oil, with a push into minerals, LNG and transport links. South Africa Crime & Public Safety: President Ramaphosa appealed for help as a ninth woman’s body was found in Ekurhuleni, widening fears of linked killings and intensifying investigations. Housing Finance: South Africa is preparing a DBSA loan of about E2.4bn to expand civil servants’ housing stock, alongside further borrowing to clear arrears and fund microprojects. Mpox Watch: South Africa reported 18 confirmed and one probable mpox case, with most infections concentrated in the Western Cape and signs of rapid local spread. Nigeria Economy & Energy: Dangote’s “people’s IPO” for the refinery is drawing huge interest, but critics point to the squeeze on households facing higher petrol and living costs. Digital Inclusion: A GSMA report says an entry-level smartphone now costs about 76% of average monthly income in sub-Saharan Africa, threatening mobile internet access. Electric Mobility: Africa’s EV shift is moving from pilots to commercial adoption, with new investment opportunities in charging and battery-swapping infrastructure. Ebola Update (DRC): WHO says progress is uneven—encouraging signs in Ituri, but cases are rising fast in North Kivu. Liberia Health & Revenue: Liberia says revenue over US$1bn since January is funding salaries and services, while health leaders warn the 2030 test depends on financing and workforce retention. Gabon Oil & Gas: Oilserv signed an MoU with Gabon to develop hydrocarbon blocks, aiming to build gas infrastructure and unlock industrial growth.