Niger Crisis & Sahel Security: Niger’s junta said an attempted rebellion was crushed with help from Russia’s “African Corps,” with rebels subdued after strikes near Niamey’s Base 101, while Algeria reportedly sent fighter jets—another sign of Russia’s growing leverage in Sahel politics. AU Diplomacy & Regional Peace: Nigeria’s VP Kashim Shettima returned from an AU summit in Angola, reiterating Nigeria’s stance on protecting its citizens amid South Africa’s xenophobia row. South Africa Xenophobia Fallout: Shettima again condemned the “dehumanisation” of Nigerians and urged dialogue and dignity, as Tinubu’s government pushes for AU action. Libya Elections Push: The US and UN welcomed a Libya electoral agreement between rival camps, seen as a step toward ending the long transitional deadlock. Guinea-Bissau Power Shift: Guinea-Bissau held a referendum to strengthen presidential powers and reduce parliament, a move critics say concentrates authority ahead of December elections. Nigeria Politics & 2027: Opposition figures escalated pressure on President Tinubu over his three-week European leave amid hardship, while a coalition floated a “government of national competence” for a single four-year transition. Health & Data Sovereignty: Namibia rejected a US health data and specimen-sharing proposal, citing privacy and sovereignty. Gender-Based Violence Governance: South Africa operationalised its National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, setting early priorities for oversight and costing. Sports Safety Debate: Airlink defended a dramatic low fly-by over Cape Town Stadium as rugby fans and officials question safety risks. Kenya Finance: Kenya’s NSSF and civil servants’ pension scheme bought over half of the Talanta Bond, spotlighting state-linked investment in sports infrastructure. AIDS Conference Planning: Society for AIDS in Africa opened bids for ICASA 2029 and confirmed Cotonou will host ICASA+ 2027.