Somalia Security & Defense: Somalia and Pakistan discussed expanding defense and maritime security cooperation, including training and capacity-building for the Somali Navy and Coast Guard. Regional Maritime Security: Saudi Arabia unveiled a Multinational Defensive Maritime Coalition to protect Red Sea and Gulf of Aden shipping, with Somalia among the signatories—raising new questions about India’s role. Internal Tensions in Somalia: Puntland forces seized a government-held camp in Galkayo, escalating the long-running standoff with Mogadishu. Counterterrorism Watch: The UN warned Islamic State remains an acute threat across Africa’s Sahel and Lake Chad Basin, stressing the group’s adaptive, decentralized networks. Health & Climate Tech: New research says climate change is reshaping malaria risk across Africa—worsening it in southern and East Africa while easing pressure in today’s hotspots. Disaster Preparedness: Compassion International urged African churches to prepare early for expected strong El Niño flooding, using partnerships with police and emergency agencies. Digital Finance: Liberia and other African countries were urged to speed up inclusive instant payment systems with interoperable rules across banks and mobile money. Human Rights Institutions: Somalia marked six months of work by its National Independent Human Rights Commission, highlighting early reflections on rights protection and governance.