Maritime Security & Trade Disruption: Kenyan authorities seized an unregistered dhow (MV Mashallah) 340 nautical miles east of Lamu carrying 1,024 kg of methamphetamine, a sign East Africa is facing more than just transit crime as traffickers use satellite phones and GPS to coordinate. Market Losses in Mogadishu: A major fire hit Bakaara Market, Somalia’s biggest commercial hub, destroying shops and goods; traders reported they couldn’t recover inventory as Banadir firefighters and security forces moved in. Energy & Offshore Services: Applus+ UAE began offshore rig service operations in Somalia, offering testing, inspection and certification to support exploration equipment integrity and compliance. Diplomacy & Investment: Somalia’s foreign minister met US adviser Massad Boulos to discuss security cooperation and expanding economic collaboration, including Red Sea stability and UNSOS support. Regional Business Leadership: PACCI elected Tanzania’s TNCC president Vincent Minja as East Africa vice president for 2026–2028, with Somalia included among the represented countries. Humanitarian Pressure: WHO warned conflict, disease outbreaks and shrinking funding are worsening the Greater Horn public health crisis, with Somalia among the hardest hit by acute food insecurity. Food Security Costs: Action Against Hunger flagged the 2026 SOFI report’s warning that Africa faces high hunger and unaffordable healthy diets, urging a course correction as aid cuts bite. Women & Peacebuilding: IGAD launched a Mogadishu project to boost women’s economic resilience and participation in peace processes, supported by the AfDB transition facility. Health & Mobility: WHO also highlighted measles risks and the need for stronger immunisation as outbreaks threaten vulnerable communities.