AfCFTA & Air Cargo: Nigeria and RwandAir have launched an expanded Nigeria–East/Southern Africa air cargo corridor, cutting freight rates on eligible routes to below $2/kg and adding Kigali, Lusaka and Harare while boosting options to Nairobi and Johannesburg—aimed at making AfCFTA trade more affordable for exporters. Ebola & Cross-Border Trade: With DR Congo’s Ebola tally rising, Kenya has intensified health screening for truck drivers moving goods to Uganda, Rwanda and beyond, using temperature checks and awareness at border points to protect regional supply chains. Climate Risk: East Africa is bracing for El Niño, with scientists warning of floods, landslides and crop losses—raising the question of whether countries are ready after the 2024 disaster. Energy & Power Markets: The World Bank approved a $1.6bn programme to integrate Eastern Africa’s power grids, support cross-border electricity trade and expand access under Mission 300. Rwanda Business & Skills: RICA is pushing to be recognised as a regional centre of excellence for conservation agriculture, positioning Rwanda as a training hub for East Africa’s next wave of agribusiness innovators. Rwanda Economy: Rwanda’s central bank is holding public-facing discussions on building resilience amid overlapping shocks like inflation and climate stress. Trade Fair Momentum: Rwanda’s International Trade Fair is set to expand in 2026, with organisers targeting more exhibitors and wider promotion for growing local brands.