Climate Finance for Food Systems: Kenya hosts FINAS 2026 in Nairobi (June 30–July 2) to unlock sustainable financing for Africa’s agri-food systems, pushing for measurable outcomes and a stronger “financial architecture.” Biodiversity Roadmap: The African Forest Forum backs a continent-wide roadmap for managing forests and biodiversity hotspots, highlighting forests, peatlands, mangroves and drylands as key to resilience and rural incomes. Marine Protection vs Fossil Fuels: Kenya’s revived offshore oil and gas licensing round draws alarm from Earth Insight, warning it could threaten coral reefs, mangroves, protected areas and coastal communities. El Niño Risk in Zimbabwe: Zimbabwe’s meteorology service warns of likely El Niño conditions in 2026/27, raising stakes for rainfall, water security and agriculture. Conservation Under Scrutiny: South Africa’s Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden faces pressure to prove it can safeguard collections, with directives issued to address decline concerns. Youth and Jobs Pressure (South Africa): Stats SA data shows high youth unemployment and NEET rates, renewing calls to tackle skills and opportunity gaps. Drug Trafficking at Ports: South Africa’s seaports face scrutiny after testimony linked them to major cocaine smuggling cases.