Election Integrity & Political Appointments: Nigeria’s ADC urges INEC to bar politically exposed academics as Returning Officers for 2027, arguing they can’t campaign for candidates and then count votes. South Africa Crime & Gender-Based Violence: Police and President Ramaphosa intensify the hunt after bodies of at least eight women were found east of Johannesburg, with fears of a serial killer or coordinated group; one arrest is reported. U.S.–South Africa Tensions: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announces visa curbs on foreign nationals linked to laws enabling land seizures, race-based discrimination, and incitement of violence. DR Congo Constitutional Crisis: In Kinshasa and other cities, protesters denounce constitutional changes that could enable President Tshisekedi’s third term; police used tear gas amid clashes, as Ebola and conflict strain the country. Sports Diplomacy: Nairobi wins the 2029 World Athletics Championships, a first for Africa, with Kenya framing it as a continent-wide boost. Nigeria Economic Debate: Atiku attacks Tinubu’s “$1tn economy” push, saying raw-material exports are rising while Nigerians face empty shelves and weak purchasing power. Regional Governance Capacity: IGAD warns of financial and institutional strain that could limit its response to Horn of Africa crises unless arrears and funding frameworks are fixed.