Mozambique Mining Overhaul: President Daniel Chapo has signed new mining rules requiring the state to take a minimum 15% free, non-dilutable stake in all mining ventures and pushing local processing by restricting exports of unprocessed or semi-processed minerals unless firms get special authorisation. Cabo Delgado LNG Scrutiny: Mozambique’s LNG project in Cabo Delgado is back in the spotlight as Absa faces shareholder pressure over its financing of TotalEnergies’ $20bn LNG plant amid human-rights concerns. Energy Infrastructure Push: South Africa’s Eskom signed a heads of agreement with Zululand Energy Terminal to secure LNG import and regasification infrastructure for a planned 3,000MW gas-to-power project in Richards Bay, aiming to strengthen regional energy security as Mozambique gas supply declines. Regional Trade Drive: Namibia’s president urged businesses to use AfCFTA to expand beyond borders after a Swakopmund summit highlighted low intra-Africa trade and the need for industrial integration. Food and Manufacturing Costs: Tiger Brands warned consumers may face higher prices as fuel, logistics and input costs squeeze manufacturers, with some categories likely to see cost pass-through. Cross-border Tensions: Xenophobic violence in South Africa is driving more Nigerians to register for voluntary repatriation, with 1,094 applicants reported so far. Agribusiness Diversification: Zimbabwe’s GI-TOC flagged illicit arms and contraband risks, while Mozambique’s wider value-chain push is echoed by SADC’s push to build energy-transition mineral value chains locally.