UN Cartography Push: The UN General Assembly adopted a new world map using the Equal Earth projection, backed by 164 countries, boosting Africa’s prominence and reducing the apparent size of North America and Europe; the US voted against it. El Niño Watch: The World Meteorological Organization warns the current El Niño could become the strongest in a thousand years, peaking by late 2026 and raising risks of droughts, heavy rains and food shocks across regions including East and southern Africa. Uganda Climate Finance: Uganda will benefit from a $200m (about Shs755bn) Africa Rural Climate Adaptation Finance Mechanism led by IFAD and Equity Group, supporting smallholders and rural businesses with irrigation, water harvesting, resilient livestock, storage and renewable energy. Health Funding Shift: Uganda is finalising a 10-year health financing strategy (2026–2036) to cut donor dependence, strengthen accountability and protect poor households from catastrophic costs. Niger Delta Oil Theft: Nigeria’s Rivers state saw at least 37 deaths after people allegedly inhaled toxic fumes during an oil theft attempt, highlighting ongoing environmental and social fallout from illegal tapping. Waste-to-Energy in Zimbabwe: President Mnangagwa witnessed an EPC deal for a waste-to-energy plant, aiming to tackle persistent refuse collection challenges. Wildlife & Safety: A bull elephant trampled a safari guide in South Africa’s Madikwe Game Reserve, underscoring risks around wildlife management. Women’s Health Funding Debate (SA): South Africa faces tough choices on financing sexual and reproductive health and rights, with concerns about whether budgets reach people and deliver outcomes.