ECOWAS Climate & Energy Governance: ECOWAS Parliament adopted its 2027 work plan and budget in Accra, with focus areas including infrastructure, transport, energy and connectivity, plus follow-up on renewable energy for rural electrification and climate/environment concerns. Gender-Based Violence Crackdown: South Africa’s President Ramaphosa announced four immediate measures after killings of women in Ekurhuleni, including a national review of unresolved GBVF cases and steps to clear forensic backlogs. AI Rule-Making Fight: At the UN, developing nations pushed for a bigger say in shaping AI governance, warning that standards set by wealthy countries could deepen global inequality. Kenya Nuclear Court Challenge: A case was filed at the East African Court of Justice over Kenya’s planned nuclear plant near Lake Victoria, arguing for ecological risk review and transboundary environmental assessment. Dangote Refinery Standoff (Lamu): Kenya’s court ordered a status quo halt on Dangote’s refinery construction amid land and displacement claims, while Dangote insists the project will proceed. El Niño and Storm Risks: El Niño strengthened further, raising drought, flooding and heat risks; meanwhile South Africa issued warnings for severe thunderstorms, hail and damaging winds. Food Resilience on the Ground: Research from northern Uganda shows pastoralists turning to wild edible plants as shortages bite, highlighting local biodiversity as a coping tool.