South Africa’s DIRCO Scrutiny: Parliament is probing whether High Commissioner Anil Sooklal acted on written DIRCO instructions when he received Jacob Zuma in India, after DA MP Ryan Smith flagged the approval and the Zuma–Ajay Gupta temple visit link. Political Lobbying & Media Influence: A DA ethics storm is growing as Solly Malatsi denies Starlink lobbying claims tied to Tony Leon’s Resolve Communications, while DA figures face accusations of business-backed policy pressure. Election Integrity Online: South Africa’s IEC is drafting new rules for the November local polls, pushing parties to label AI-made campaign content and correct false claims and misinformation on their platforms. Digital & Cybersecurity Partnerships: Qatar’s National Cyber Security Agency and beIN Media Group signed an MoU to boost cybersecurity awareness and train media staff. Experiential Marketing Push: Nigeria’s EXP Agency launched Expressions Influencer Agency to expand influencer-led content and social media marketing for brands across Africa. Clean Energy for Households: Lagos pilots an 80m clean cookstoves programme aimed at cutting firewood use and unlocking carbon finance via digital verification. Human Rights Alarm (Ethiopia): HRW alleges Tigray authorities forcibly recruit civilians, including children, fueling fear across the region.