Humanitarian Diplomacy: China’s PLA Navy hospital ship Auspicious Ark has set sail on Mission Harmony-2026 for free medical care across Africa and South Asia. Public Finance & Jobs: South Africa secured a $1.5bn World Bank loan for power, freight and water reforms, even as debt-service costs top R1bn a day and unions warn borrowing could squeeze the fiscus. Health Security: Africa CDC released an Africa Health Security Index showing progress but major gaps remain, as Ebola risk continues to rise in the region. Ebola Travel Rules: Africa CDC urged the U.S. to lift Ebola-related entry restrictions on Uganda, citing no confirmed cases since June 21 and active surveillance. Rights & Safety: South Africa’s CRL Rights Commission opened an investigation after 43 deaths during winter initiation season, citing alleged abuses and safety failures. Energy Corridor: ECOWAS leaders signed off on the $25bn Nigeria–Morocco African Atlantic Gas Pipeline framework to move up to 30 bcm annually. Telecom Connectivity: Nigeria’s NCC called for stronger cooperation among African regulators, while RASCOM urged investment in fibre and satellite links for border connectivity. Food Security: A UN report says Africa has overtaken Asia as the hunger epicentre, with 309m people affected. Governance & Identity: South Africa’s court adjourned the deportation case of former Miss Universe Nigeria Chidimma Adetshina, with a ruling expected mid-August.