Energy & Inflation Shock: A new regional warning links deadly protests over high fuel prices in Kenya, Comoros and Mozambique to the real cost of oil disruptions, with the International Energy Agency warning reserves are running low and any Iran-related escalation could worsen shortages and inflation. Maritime Trade & Sanctions: Botswana denies it registers the “Botswana-flagged” tanker disabled by the US near the Strait of Hormuz, while separate reports detail France seizing a Russia-linked oil tanker in the Atlantic—both pointing to how false flags and enforcement actions are reshaping shipping and energy flows. Comoros Food Safety at the Border: FAO support is helping Comoros shift import controls toward a more evidence-driven, risk-based approach for inspections, targeting higher-risk shipments to protect consumers. Comoros–China Business Ties: President Azali Assoumani tells Xinhua that cooperation with China remains “exemplary,” citing long-running results in socio-economic development and healthcare, and pledging to deepen the strategic partnership. Import Licensing Transparency: An experience-sharing session highlights how clearer rules, better notifications and digital tools can make import licensing more predictable and cut trade costs. Cross-Border Payments Innovation: Esca Finance partners with MANSA to enable same-day settlements across key African corridors using stablecoin-backed rails. Blue Economy Investment Push: Leaders call for faster investment in Africa’s blue economy, arguing coastal conservation can unlock jobs and growth.