Ship Repair & Regional Trade: Tanzania’s DMG completed the TSh 34 billion overhaul of the 111-year-old MV Liemba and started technical trials in Kigoma, with officials saying the ship will return to service on September 1—renewing transport links across Burundi, Zambia and the DRC. Digital Identity & Trust: A new focus on birth registration and biometrics is pushing countries to treat CRVS as foundational digital public infrastructure, with case studies citing Rwanda’s digitized birth registration linked to national ID systems as a model for better service access and fraud resistance. Burundi Tech Policy Push: CEPI and Burundi’s Free Tech Institute discussed how to strengthen the tech sector in Burundi and Cameroon, pointing to gaps in digital infrastructure, financing and regulation as key barriers to innovation and digital transformation. Digital Freedom for Growth: Experts urged higher investment in digital infrastructure, skills and tech entrepreneurship, arguing that “digital freedom” and clearer rules can unlock jobs and prosperity across Africa. EAC AI for Health: The EAC launched AI4EAC to train 20,000 East Africans, including a dedicated Ebola Response track for detection, preparedness and response. Youth, Peace & Power: Burundi hosted the 20-year African Youth Charter dialogue, with youth leaders pressing for real participation in laws, budgets and governance—not just attendance. Africa-China Trade Boost: China’s zero-tariff rollout is already lifting African exports, with Kenyan avocado oil and other products moving into the Chinese market over the past 100 days.