IMF Debt Watch: African countries owe the IMF about KSh 4.99 trillion (USD 38.6bn), with Egypt the biggest debtor (KSh 887bn) and Kenya’s IMF programme collapse still echoing in the figures. Opposition Rights in Abidjan: Six PDCI opposition officials jailed for months were freed after an anti-terrorism chamber hearing in Abidjan, following earlier releases tied to the 2025 presidential election crackdown. ECOWAS Appointments: ECOWAS approved new commissioners, ECOWAS Court judges, an auditor-general and the WAHO director-general for 2026–2030, including Dr Kalilou Sylla (Ivory Coast) as commissioner for internal services. Digital Connectivity Push: During a US diplomatic visit to Abidjan, the Ivorian government approved Starlink for nationwide satellite internet, targeting the digital divide in remote areas. Local Transport Culture: Abidjan’s colorful minibuses remain a defining street feature as the city’s transport life continues to evolve. Climate & Flood Risk: West African floods are being linked to stronger rainfall and urban exposure, with Côte d’Ivoire among the affected coastal states. Cocoa Value Addition: Four major cocoa producers, including Côte d’Ivoire, agreed in Abuja to end raw bean exports and push “bean to brand” processing. Business & Innovation: Ivorian micro-mobility startup Ecobyke joined FasterCapital’s EquityPilot to scale electric bike and scooter services across African cities.