Helium & Gas Drilling: D3 Energy has spudded its first well (NGT245 E) at Nooitgedacht in South Africa’s ER315 permit, targeting higher helium and methane deliverability and data to expand reserves. Digital Inclusion: unconnected.org and Q-KON are partnering to bring multi-orbit satellite connectivity to off-grid schools, clinics and communities across Sub-Saharan Africa. Health Security: The AfDB approved $13m to support Ebola response across DRC, South Sudan and Uganda as the outbreak spreads with no approved vaccines for the Bundibugyo variant. Municipal Utilities Reform: AfDB also backed a $400m (R6.5bn) loan for Mpumalanga municipal electricity and water reforms, aiming to cut losses and improve reliability. AI for Development: The IMF warns sub-Saharan Africa could gain about 4% GDP from AI, but only if electricity, internet and digital skills improve. Youth & Work: South Africa’s youth unemployment remains near 50% (15–34), with new focus on workplace readiness in the age of AI. Security Cooperation: Gambia’s Interior Minister Sanyang urged Africa to unite against emerging security threats, stressing reforms, modern border management and community policing. Innovation & Skills: TIA and W&R Seta launched a skills-to-innovation partnership to turn youth training into startups and jobs. Tech in Telecom: Evolving Systems says its Smart Dealer platform is rolling out digital customer onboarding through dealer channels in Africa. Sports & Talent: Nigeria’s Quadri Atunwon helped defend the boys’ U-19 table tennis title after a dramatic comeback win over Egypt. Education Recognition: KNUST won a US$3m Mastercard Foundation AHEFT Prize for research-to-innovation impact. Railway Signalling: FUT Daura in Nigeria began building Africa’s first railway signal and communication centre, with equipment shipping from China. Xenophobia Debate: South Africa’s xenophobia and political rhetoric are again under scrutiny as communities face rising tension and displacement fears.