Global AI Governance: China’s Xi Jinping opened the 2026 World AI Conference in Shanghai and backed a “just and equitable” system for global AI governance, with countries signing up to WAICO, an intergovernmental AI body meant to help the Global South build AI innovation, applications and rules. Food Security: A UN report warns the Iran war could push nearly 19 million more people into chronic hunger by 2030, with Africa and Asia hit hardest. Health Systems & Ebola: Africa CDC’s Jean Kaseya urged leaders at Ghana’s Extraordinary Health Summit to turn commitments into resilient health funding and faster outbreak response as Ebola continues to threaten communities. West Africa Health Workforce: AU Health Commissioner Amma Twum-Amoah said training health workers without jobs and retention is a waste of public investment, calling for fair pay and protected career pathways. Maritime Security: Morocco hosted the African Maritime Forces Summit in Rabat, calling for collective, tech-enabled cooperation to tackle piracy, smuggling, illegal fishing and maritime terrorism. Digital Trade for SMEs (Kenya): A focus on how Kenyan small businesses can use digital payments and online systems to trade across borders with more confidence. Refugee Protection (Cameroon): Cameroon’s MINAT met UNHCR and Central African Republic officials to review barriers to safe, voluntary repatriation of Central African refugees. Culture & Heritage (Ghana/Nigeria): Ghana’s Akwete weaving gets N2bn support from Nigeria’s First Lady, while Ghana’s Upper East communities mark Emancipation Day heritage preservation.