World Cup Media & Ads: FIFA’s new hydration-break model is turning into a major advertising lever, with extra broadcast time and partner-only ad rules driving more commercial slots. Egypt Startup Finance: Egypt plans to update convertible securities rules and valuation methods, while studying a sovereign-fund-style mechanism to bridge late-stage startup funding gaps. South Africa Tobacco Bill: Parliament’s health committee has advanced the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill, pointing to stricter smoke-free indoor rules and tighter vaping controls. Uganda Press Freedom: US Sen. Jim Risch calls for a review of US-Uganda ties after Uganda’s military ordered closures of major independent outlets, escalating international pressure on media freedom. South Africa Protests & Safety: Police warn June 30 anti-illegal-immigration demonstrators of “full and immediate consequences,” stressing peaceful, unarmed conduct and protection of essential services. Nigeria Energy Supply: Nigeria imported Libyan crude for the first time on record, underscoring refinery feedstock pressure amid domestic shortages. DRC Minerals Sanctions: The US sanctions networks tied to illicit conflict-mineral flows fueling M23 in eastern DRC, pushing for traceable supply chains. Ebola Update (DRC): Ebola continues to spread in the DRC, with rising death toll figures reported by health authorities. Ghana World Cup Confidence: Black Stars forward Brandon Thomas-Asante says Ghana’s counter-attacking threat and squad depth can trouble any opponent in the Round of 32. Uganda Media Crackdown (More): Additional reporting highlights the shutdown of Nation Media Group outlets, deepening concerns over shrinking space for independent journalism. INEC Election Tech: INEC issues access codes to multiple parties for 2027 candidate uploads, signaling a more digital candidate screening process. South Africa Gambling Warning: The National Gambling Board urges consumers to avoid illegal online gambling apps and verify licensed operators via its portal.