Somalia–US Talks: President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met U.S. Congressman Darin LaHood in Mogadishu to push security cooperation, counter-terrorism and new economic ties aimed at attracting investment. Somalia Economy: Finance Minister Bihi Imaan Egeh warned that Somalia’s income inflows have fallen by $450m–$600m and urged faster private-sector growth and stronger domestic revenue. AUSSOM Funding Shock: Analysts say the AU’s Somalia mission is being reshaped after the U.S. signaled it will not fund AUSSOM logistics beyond end-December, pushing the AU toward a more political stabilization focus. Somali Politics & Legitimacy: The Somali Future Council urged AUSSOM troop-contributing countries in Kampala to address Somalia’s legitimacy crisis, arguing foreign firepower can’t fix disputed institutions. Somalia–Digital Payments: Somalia is set to expand instant payments linking banks and mobile money platforms, a move that could deepen financial access for businesses. Red Sea Security: Somalia condemned drone attacks on Saudi Arabia, stressing Red Sea shipping and regional stability. Somaliland Tax Debate: A 2.5% sales tax in Somaliland is criticized for shifting the burden to households instead of big corporate players. Youth & Jobs Context: A wider Africa Youth Survey shows optimism rising but cost-of-living pressure and demand for jobs and accountable governance remain central. Hunger Pressure in the Region: UN reporting says Africa has overtaken Asia as the global hunger epicenter, with Somalia cited among drought-hit areas. Business Risk Watch: UN experts say Boeing aircraft linked to a U.S. contractor’s network transported weapons and drones for Sudan’s RSF—raising broader concerns about regional security and trade disruptions.