Energy & Jobs: The World Bank’s West Africa Regional Power Integration and Electricity Access Programme says it has extended electricity access to over 3 million people across the region, building 4,000+ km of high-voltage lines linking 15 countries to boost cross-border power trade and support thousands of jobs. Maritime Security: Obangame Express OE26, a major Gulf of Guinea anti-crime drill, wrapped up after a three-week exercise in Cameroon, with Guinea-Bissau among 30+ participating countries working on readiness against piracy, illegal fishing and trafficking. Electricity Shortages: Kenya is in early talks to contract Turkish firm Karpowership to deploy ship-mounted “plug-and-play” power plants along the coast as demand rises and grid pressure worsens. Regional Energy Governance: Guinea’s OMVG chair Laye Sekou Camara warned that cash-flow strains and contract disputes could delay flagship projects like the Sambangalou Dam and the OMVG Interconnection, urging member states to clear contributions and fund 2026 budgets. Shipping & Sanctions: A report highlights how Russia has used “flag of convenience” practices, including Guinea-Bissau being listed in shipping rankings, to build a parallel maritime system amid sanctions. Policy & Connectivity: UCC’s Starlink licensing move is framed against taxation and sovereignty concerns, while Starlink’s Uganda rollout raises questions on ground-station presence and compliance.