Climate & Weather Watch: Scientists and weather agencies warn El Niño is underway and could intensify, raising risks of extreme heat, flooding and drought across regions that include parts of southern Africa, while India’s monsoon forecast is downgraded to below normal. Water & Resilience: Niger Basin countries are pushing to accelerate a climate programme ahead of its 2027 deadline, with funding from the AfDB, Green Climate Fund, EU and Germany aimed at ecosystem and community resilience. Circular Economy & Industry: Egypt is repositioning toward manufacturing, renewables and fintech, while Dubai’s National Industries Park and Al Bayader are backing a US$50m logistics hub to expand recycled PET and paper-based food packaging. Agri Innovation: India’s ICAR-IARI launches digital learning, food processing and climate-resilient ag labs—an approach that mirrors Africa’s push for climate-smart farming tools. Wildlife & Health Research: Cornell researchers are exploring whether wildfire smoke could spread chronic wasting disease, adding a new angle to climate-linked animal health risks. Finance for SMEs: Zambia’s Bank of Zambia pledges K5bn for a Small Business Growth Initiative to widen affordable credit. Migration & Human Rights: Pope Leo XIV again urged action against human smugglers on the Canary Islands, spotlighting the West Africa-to-Europe migration route.