Sierra Leone Reconciliation: President Julius Maada Bio welcomed former President Ernest Bai Koroma back from Nigeria after criminal proceedings were dropped, with both leaders pushing peace and national cohesion. Nigeria–South Africa Xenophobia Row: Nigeria condemned fresh killings of two Nigerians in South Africa and demanded transparent probes, while South Africa called Nigeria’s suspension of official visits “unfortunate”; lawmakers also suspended engagements. INEC 2027 Election Countdown: Nigeria’s INEC cleared 18 presidential candidates for 2027, naming Tinubu, Atiku and Obi among others, and published final lists for presidential and running mates. Ghana Education Reset: President John Mahama reiterated plans to end Ghana’s double-track SHS system by end-2027, citing World Bank support and dedicated funding. BRICS Diplomacy: BRICS adopted the Delhi Declaration urging maximum restraint in West Asia; leaders including Egypt’s Sisi, South Africa’s Ramaphosa and Iran’s Pezeshkian held bilateral talks. South Africa Data Center Backlash: Rights groups urged reviews and a pause on new data centers amid water and electricity constraints. Sports Governance: Danny Jordaan won a fourth SAFA term despite fraud charges looming, beating Sandile Zungu. Climate Warning: Africa braces for a very strong El Niño, with drought, floods and food and health risks ahead.