AfCFTA Push: Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud signed the AfCFTA law, clearing the last domestic hurdle for Somalia to join Africa’s single market—though economists warn the real test is boosting production and exports, not just market access. Business Reform: In Mogadishu, the cabinet backed a Business Registration and Licensing Bill to streamline regulation, improve the investment climate, and raise transparency, alongside governance and election preparations. Red Sea Trade Security: Saudi Arabia led a new multinational maritime defence alliance with 13 partners, including Somalia, to protect shipping through Bab al-Mandeb, the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden—aimed at safeguarding freedom of navigation and energy supply routes. AUSSOM Funding & Politics: AU troop-contributing defence ministers said Somalia’s unresolved political disputes are the main obstacle to lasting stability, warning that military funding alone won’t close the gap. Regional Diplomacy: Kenya’s Deputy President Kithure Kindiki attended Uganda’s AUSSOM summit, where leaders discussed financing, logistics, and avoiding a security vacuum during the mission transition. Climate Risk to Food: A Barclays note on El Niño sparked backlash as analysts warned a possible “super” El Niño could worsen food insecurity, with Somalia flagged among at-risk countries.