US Sanctions & Minerals: The US Treasury has sanctioned Rwanda’s Gasabo Gold Refinery and two executives, alleging a network smuggling conflict minerals from eastern DR Congo to Rwanda and financing M23 rebels, escalating pressure on Rwanda’s mineral supply chains. Capital Markets Integration: Rwanda’s Capital Markets Authority concluded a mission to Nigeria to strengthen regulatory cooperation and modernise market infrastructure, with talks aimed at deeper links between African exchanges and easier cross-border investor access. Banking & Health Support: Access Bank Rwanda Plc backed AVEGA’s mobile clinic to deliver care to Genocide widows, linking financial services with community health outcomes. Infrastructure Oversight: Kigali’s planned central sewer system was put on hold after engineers found the design would require digging up nearly 80% of city roads, forcing a redesign following Auditor General concerns. Digital Connectivity Policy: Namibia rejected Starlink’s licence application over ownership requirements, reigniting the debate on how African regulators balance connectivity goals with sovereignty and compliance. Trade & Logistics: NAHCO expanded airline handling and secured FlyGabon ties while beginning solar cargo exports, signalling growth in regional air freight for energy-linked goods. Energy & Inflation Watch: The IMF warned that high energy costs are worsening food and fertiliser prices across Africa, while analysts say lower oil prices may not quickly calm unrest risks. Agribusiness Markets: Rwanda tea sold at higher auction prices, with Rwanda’s performance highlighted as Kenya’s market lagged. Startup Funding: Electric mobility firm Spiro raised an additional $55m from NewTrails Capital, taking its round to $270m and pushing it toward a $1bn valuation. Digital Inclusion Skills: AIMS Rwanda graduated 43 master’s students in mathematical sciences and data/AI fields, feeding Rwanda’s talent pipeline for tech-led development.