Russia-Africa Tech & Energy Push: Russia’s ambassador to South Africa and Lesotho Roman Ambarov says Moscow is seeking a bigger long-term role in Africa’s energy, security, education, healthcare, food security, and technology—framing it as “economic, financial and technological sovereignty” rather than Western-style aid with conditions. Youth & Digital Agenda 2063: In Kampala, the B!LL!Now Now Youth Summit gathered 1,000+ delegates from 11 countries to push Agenda 2063 with “Bold Asks” on funding, inclusion, and guaranteed seats, including a focus on responsible technology and AI. Cleaner Freight for the Northern Corridor: UNEP and NCTTCA launched support for the Northern Corridor Green Freight Strategy 2030, including emissions tracking, a study on electrifying Port of Mombasa operations, and steps to boost women’s participation in freight. AI in East African Finance: Kenya’s Nairobi Securities Exchange plans East Africa’s first AI-themed ETF, aiming to bring AI exposure to regional investors. Malaria Map Shifts: New research says climate change is “moving” malaria—slightly increasing it overall, but raising risk in southern and East Africa (including Burundi) while reducing it in today’s hottest hotspots. Burundi Diaspora Trust Challenge: Burundi’s Pan-African Diaspora Week highlighted hopes for skills and investment transfer, but noted obstacles that still weaken trust and limit broader investment beyond real estate and infrastructure. Cashew Value-Chain Skills: The African Cashew Alliance trained 81 cashew actors across 11 countries (including Burundi) in production, processing, value addition, quality, and marketing to shift from raw exports to higher-value products.