South Africa–GBV Crackdown: President Cyril Ramaphosa called violence against women a “national shame” after 11 women’s bodies were found in Ekurhuleni since July, announcing an alcohol crackdown, a 60-day safety audit, and reviews of unresolved gender-violence cases. Private Medicines Cost Hike: South Africans will pay more from Thursday as the Health Department approved a 2.8% increase for private-sector medicines. Diplomatic Tensions: South Africa summoned US Ambassador Leo Brent Bozell III again over “undiplomatic conduct,” further straining already frayed ties. AFCON 2027 Focus: Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane warned Eritrea’s Ali Sulieman is a constant scoring threat as South Africa prepares for another Group D qualifier in Cairo. AFCON Qualifier Results: Tuesday’s matches saw Nigeria thrashed 3-0 by Guinea-Bissau, while Senegal beat Ethiopia 1-0 and Congo drew 1-1 with Cameroon. Mali Security: Amnesty accused Mali’s army and Wagner-linked forces of war crimes, including unlawful killings and torture of civilians. East Africa Energy Push: Aliko Dangote and Kenya’s William Ruto will break ground on a $16bn East Africa refinery in Lamu aimed at cutting fuel imports. Cameroon Oil Update: Cameroon approved Prime Global Energies’ 42.5% stake in the Thali oil permit amid sector pressure. Tanzania Nutrition Boost: Tanzania released three vitamin A-rich banana varieties to tackle child malnutrition. Payments Innovation: Kora launched One Rail to let African merchants collect and settle stablecoin payments alongside fiat.