Cross-Border Finance: Standard Lesotho Bank says it has pioneered direct Renminbi (RMB) transactions between Africa and China via a new Cross Border Interbank Payment System, aiming to speed up and secure a roughly $100m Lesotho-linked trade corridor. Regional Water & Infrastructure: South Africa launched a National Water Access Acceleration Programme, highlighting decentralised treatment plants and long-term water security plans that Lesotho industry and suppliers may watch for future regional linkages. SADC Animal Health: SADC moves to coordinate a unified cross-border strategy against foot-and-mouth disease, including joint vaccination planning and stronger diagnostics—key for livestock and trade. Lesotho Youth & Skills: The Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development rolls out the Sebabatso and STEAM 2026 youth empowerment campaign across all districts, with an extended deadline and anti-scam warnings. Climate Resilience for MSMEs: Government launches a M68m Climate Resilience and Preparedness Support Facility to help small businesses invest in drought and flood protection. Illegal Mining Fallout (SA): Two SANDF members died during an anti-illegal mining operation in Gauteng, renewing calls for deeper oversight of the illegal mining value chain. AI Diplomacy: Lesotho’s FM Limpho Tau signed Lesotho’s WAICO founding agreement in Shanghai, as China pushes AI capacity-building and digital partnerships across the Global South. Consumer Recall: South Africa’s NCC warns of a Ford recall affecting 2026 Transit and Tourneo Custom models exported to Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland, urging free inspection and repair.