Rwanda Budget Watch: Rwanda unveiled its 2026/27 national budget of Rwf 7.8 trillion, up 12%, prioritising agriculture, jobs and economic stability, with 63% earmarked for economic transformation and support for vulnerable groups. IMF Financing: The IMF approved a $250m credit facility for Rwanda to support reforms and growth as global uncertainty weighs on the economy. R&D Push: Rwanda plans to raise research and innovation spending from about 0.7% of GDP (Rwf150.6bn) toward a 1.5% target (Rwf322.7bn), aiming to build a knowledge-driven economy. Health Tech & Outbreak Readiness: Redwood AI signed a non-binding LOI with Rwanda’s University of Global Health Equity to explore AI-enabled regional pathogen tracking across Rwanda and DRC. Visa Friction for Health Experts: Midwifery experts from Africa and Asia, including Rwanda, were reportedly denied visas for a major conference in Portugal, raising concerns for maternal and newborn health progress. Private Sector Momentum: A report says Africa’s startup funding rebounded in May, with the top 10 deals raising $242.6m, led by fintech, logistics and energy. Land Rights for Farmers: A focus on smallholder productivity highlights that secure, formally recognised land rights remain a key barrier to investment and higher incomes. EAC Energy & Environment: New scrutiny continues over EACOP’s biodiversity and wildlife corridor risks as oil transport could bring long-term environmental and community impacts.