Rovuma LNG Momentum: ExxonMobil awarded about $1.1bn in pre-investment contracts for Mozambique’s Rovuma LNG phase 1, keeping the project on track toward a Final Investment Decision, with observers stressing that security and local supply-chain participation will be key. Critical Minerals Pipeline: NeoTerra picked Valentine Enterprises to run the USTDA-funded prefeasibility study for its Monte Muambe rare earths project in Mozambique, with a short drilling campaign due to start in September. Mining Pressure on Nature: Illegal gold mining is damaging protected areas in Nsanje, with trenches and tree cutting reported in Mwabvi Wildlife Reserve and Matandwe Forest Reserve, while officials warn the scale of encroachment is still unclear. Power Reliability Worry: Malawi’s Mozambique power lifeline (Mozambique–Malawi Interconnection) missed its third commissioning deadline, leaving blackouts worsening as demand outstrips available generation. Online Gambling Framework: Mozambique approved a dedicated regulation for online games of chance, creating a separate concession regime, though licensing details are still unresolved. Agriculture Push: Mozambique’s agricultural plan is budgeted at $2bn over four years to boost smallholder productivity, including irrigation support in Gaza and improved seeds, financing and mechanisation. Regional Trade & Shipping: Interasia Lines will launch a weekly Mombasa–Asia service from mid-October, signaling growing confidence in East Africa’s port capacity. SADC Migration Politics: SADC backed a regional migration dialogue as South Africa takes a leading role, reflecting rising tensions affecting Mozambique-linked migration flows.