AU & Horn of Africa Diplomacy: The African Union urged Ethiopia, Eritrea and Egypt to exercise maximum restraint as Ethiopia closed its embassy in Asmara, expelled Eritrean diplomats, and fighting in Tigray raised fears of spillover. Regional Security: Ethiopia is reportedly preparing to withdraw more than 3,000 troops from Somalia as pressure mounts from renewed conflict at home. AU Economic Push: Ghana’s President Mahama arrived in Egypt for the AU Mid-Year Coordination Summit and the maiden Alamein Africa Forum, with a focus on investing in health, manufacturing and regional value chains. Investment & Energy Deals: Zambia targets over US$5bn in deals at Invest-Zambia, while Kenya’s Dangote East Africa Refinery in Lamu (Sh2.2tn) was launched as a major energy-security and jobs bet. Governance & Accountability: South Africa’s Parliament plans to call DIRCO to explain a third US ambassador démarche involving Leo Bozell, amid concerns over diplomatic conduct. Public Service Delivery: Nigeria digitalised the 2026 President’s Teachers’ Awards selection to improve transparency and traceability. Electoral Integrity: South Africa’s Electoral Court rejected Operation Dudula’s bid for extra time to submit candidate lists, citing internal leadership disputes. Civic Tensions: Zambia’s UPND youth chief rejected calls to release treason detainees as a precondition for dialogue.