El Niño Preparedness: Rwanda is ramping up impact-based forecasting and early warnings as a very strong El Niño is forecast to bring above-normal rains, raising risks of flooding, landslides and infrastructure damage. Ethiopia–World Bank: Ethiopia and the World Bank agreed to deepen ties to push private sector-led growth and jobs, expanding cooperation on logistics, housing, e-mobility and water initiatives. Ethiopia’s Push: Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed highlighted September progress on the Mojo Modern Logistics Hub expansion, mortgage refinancing plans for affordable housing, and regional diplomacy. Ruto Mourns Chivayo: Kenya’s President William Ruto mourned Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife after a fatal helicopter crash. East Africa Energy: The African Energy Chamber backed Dangote’s planned Lamu refinery despite a land dispute that could delay construction; meanwhile, Dangote offered East African countries equity stakes. Digital Health in Nigeria: Nigeria is moving toward a unified digital health system to end fragmented records and improve AI-enabled care. Education Before Emergencies: Ghana’s Dr Clement Apaak urged West Africa to strengthen education systems ahead of crises, not after learning is disrupted. Digital Divide: A report warns Africa’s digital inclusion gaps persist, with affordability and rural access still blocking youth, women and rural communities. SADC Journalism Awards (Angola): Angola’s MINTTICS honoured winners of the 2026 SADC Journalism Prize, spotlighting the Lobito Corridor’s economic role. Football & Identity: Ivory Coast’s Herve Renard begins AFCON qualifiers with two wins and clean sheets, while Nigeria’s independence debate continues amid calls for unity and reform.