Local Governance: eNCA’s documentary “Politics, Promises & Broken Cities” spotlights how South Africa’s metros struggle with water, electricity, housing, waste and municipal finances ahead of the 2026 local elections, and why accountability is hard to pin down across spheres of government. Public Finance & Education: South Africa’s Basic Education Ministry suspended the Foundation Phase textbook catalogue for 2027 after procurement concerns, risking delays in literacy gains for the most vulnerable learners. Gender-Based Violence: South Africa faces renewed outrage as a ninth woman’s body is found in Ekurhuleni, while leaders and athletes like Siya Kolisi push for action beyond awareness amid a femicide crisis. Health Financing: The UN Economic Commission for Africa convened an inaugural high-level advisory group on health financing to boost sustainable, mostly domestic funding as aid shrinks and debt tightens fiscal space. Digital Governance & AI: Zambia hosts TICON Africa (23–25 Sept) to tackle AI rollout, cybersecurity, data governance and skills, aiming for practical policy pathways. Regional Livestock Security: Tanzania, Angola and the DRC plan a regional wall to stop PPR spread southwards, targeting eradication by 2040. Governance Integrity: MEMA Africa’s co-founder Solomon Omboto quits, alleging sidelining and missing funds, deepening a leadership dispute. International Diplomacy: India’s MEA says BRICS leaders did not fall ill, debunking viral claims and warning against malicious posts. Energy Infrastructure: Transnet issued an RFP for a small-to-medium LNG terminal operator at East London port, seeking investment under a 25-year concession.