Passport Power & Mobility: The Henley Passport Index 2026 shows Nigeria lagging at 90th globally with visa-free access to 44 destinations, highlighting uneven diplomatic reach across Africa. Retail & Competition: Spar’s convenience model is being squeezed as South Africa’s on-demand grocery habits deepen, with a Gauteng High Court order forcing Spar to vacate a Midrand centre—clearing space for Shoprite’s expansion. Lesotho–China Trade & Payments: Standard Lesotho Bank says it has pioneered direct Renminbi cross-border payments with straight-through processing for Africa–China trade, targeting a local wool-and-mohair corridor worth about $100m. AI Cooperation: Lesotho’s FM Limpho Tau signed WAICO founding arrangements in Shanghai, as China pushes AI capacity-building for Global South countries. Youth & Skills: Lesotho rolls out the Sebabatso and STEAM 2026 youth empowerment campaign across all districts, extending deadlines and warning against scams. Water Security: South Africa launched a National Water Access Acceleration Programme, with decentralised treatment and non-revenue water reforms aimed at long-term supply. Livestock Health: SADC moves to coordinate a unified strategy against foot-and-mouth disease, including cross-border vaccination and diagnostics. Food Prices: Potato prices in South Africa rose 6% week-on-week to R4,872/ton, with demand improving as supply shifts. Energy & Governance: Lesotho Electricity Company faces alleged governance failures after losses of over M1bn in three years, with calls for disciplinary action against suspended executives. Infrastructure Risks: Lesotho’s Polihali Dam project faces capacity concerns, with LHDA reportedly descopeing major components after expert review.