Energy & Digital Infrastructure: Lesotho has signed a $6.2bn deal with US firm Convalt Energy for Project Kobong—1,200MW hydropower plus an AI data centre—aimed at cutting electricity imports and positioning the country to export power regionally. Anti-Corruption & Border Operations: South Africa’s Border Management Authority says bribe-taking and corruption at ports are undermining operations running at about 25% capacity, even as multiple agencies target frontline misconduct. Agriculture & Labour Compliance: Pressure is rising on farmers across the region as immigration crackdowns increase the risks of employing undocumented workers, with legal and operational disruption now a key concern. Digital Skills for Jobs: In Maseru, MICSTI Minister Nthati Moorosi led the sod-turning of a digital studio at Makoanyane Square, part of the E-Government Phase II push to grow content creation and youth skills. Construction Milestone: The LHDA reports Polihali Dam Phase II progress, with rockfill placement and upstream concrete curb reaching elevation 2020 as work advances toward 2027 reservoir inundation. Logistics Innovation: Zipline says it is in advanced talks with Lesotho to expand drone deliveries, including plans to add livestock insemination services. Food Security Policy: Southern Africa’s Rural Women’s Assembly urged governments to put women smallholder farmers at the centre of food and climate policy to tackle hunger and shocks.