China Debt Trap: A new report says China’s infrastructure lending across Africa often ties financing to Chinese contractors and repayment linked to resource access, shrinking governments’ room to maneuver. West Africa Flood Risk: Scientists warn extreme Gulf of Guinea rainfall is now about five times more likely due to climate change, with deadly June floods hitting Ivory Coast, Ghana and Togo. Ivory Coast Development Push: At Abidjan’s PND 2026-2030 consultative meeting, private partners pledged major funding, including AGL’s 800bn FCFA, as the state leans on energy and logistics to sustain growth. Energy & Oil Sector: Wison New Energies signed an EPCIC deal for the Baleine Phase 3 FPSO in Côte d’Ivoire, a major step for offshore production. Security & Borders: Benin and Nigeria concluded a geospatial-intelligence-led Customs operation, seizing narcotics, fuel and consumer goods along the border corridor. Visa Policy Watch: Tunisia expanded visa-free access for 21 African countries including Côte d’Ivoire, while South Africa’s 2026 list again excludes Sierra Leone. Care Economy: UN Women urged Liberia to reform its care economy after a report highlighted the huge economic value of unpaid work by women.