Telecom Growth: Safaricom marks five years since Ethiopia’s unified licence, hitting 15 million 90-day active subscribers and expanding to 3,500+ sites covering about 60% of the population. Energy & Cost of Living Politics: Nigeria’s Presidency rejects Atiku Abubakar’s plan to restore fuel subsidy, saying it would derail reforms and discourage refining investment, as fuel prices keep climbing. Elections & Accountability: SERAP gives Nigeria’s INEC seven days to explain alleged diversion of ₦126.46bn in electoral funds or face legal action. Regional Diplomacy & Trade: Ethiopia’s New Year agenda spotlights BRICS diplomacy and renewed push for reliable Red Sea access to unlock investment and logistics. Business & Jobs Partnerships: Botswana’s justice minister thanks Chinese partners for technology, skills and jobs, urging local entrepreneurs to turn deals into ventures. Local Business Climate: Cape Town businesses report improved municipal service quality (PSQ up to 92), but still flag delays in land-use and building approvals. Security & Shipping Risk: Houthis’ control of Yemen’s Red Sea coastline raises pressure on Bab al-Mandeb, a key global trade chokepoint. Healthcare Research: KFSH says it ran 48% of Saudi Arabia’s registered clinical trials in H1 2025, reflecting expanding research infrastructure. Agriculture & Markets: Agriculture Summit Africa kicks off with grassroots town halls in Iseyin, focusing on climate-smart farming, market readiness and digital tools. Minimum Wage Campaign: Nigeria’s Omoyele Sowore pledges a ₦500,000 monthly living minimum wage plus 24-hour electricity and free education if elected in 2027.