Wildlife & Conservation Backlash: Botswana is facing mounting criticism after authorities authorised the killing of 23 elephants for Independence celebrations, with animal rights groups warning it could weaken conservation messaging and even fuel poaching, while concerns also surfaced about hygiene and fairness amid a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. Transboundary Water Watch: Namibia’s Kavango water link to Windhoek is still at the Environmental Impact Assessment stage, with consultations underway and next steps depending on the EIA outcome and cross-border water allocation decisions involving Namibia, Angola and Botswana. Tourism & Nature-Based Livelihoods: KAZA has launched a Regenerative Nature-Based Tourism initiative aimed at protecting biodiversity while boosting local enterprise and sustainable livelihoods, with support for micro, small and medium tourism businesses—especially women, youth and communities near protected areas. Botswana at 60: Botswana marked its 60th independence anniversary with national celebrations in Gaborone, spotlighting resilience and prosperity alongside cultural displays tied to the country’s identity, including the Okavango Delta and wildlife. Local Animal Care in the Delta: In the Okavango Delta, a stallion named Hunter survived a crocodile attack after outreach vets treated a serious wound, highlighting how closely domestic animals and wildlife share space. Mining & Investment Signals: Botswana improved its standing in the Fraser Institute’s Investment Attractiveness Index, moving into the top 10 as a leading mining jurisdiction—an indicator that policy perceptions and mineral potential are drawing more exploration interest. Agriculture & Food Security: Botswana Development Corporation continued its dairy push with another batch of Girolando cattle arriving from Brazil, aiming to scale Milk Valley Farm and reduce reliance on imported milk.