Climate Risk for Farmers: A new El Niño forecast warns of harsher drought across southern Africa and flooding in the Horn, with Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia and Botswana flagged as highly exposed—raising the odds of food price spikes and a wider “polycrisis” for farmers. Foot-and-Mouth Disease Update: Botswana’s agriculture minister says the FMD outbreak is being suppressed through vaccination in the North East, with a 350km containment fence project underway to help stop spread. Youth & Jobs Pathway: Botswana has formally acceded to the African Youth Charter, aiming to unlock stronger youth empowerment, employment support and participation in decision-making. Food Security Push (Dairy): BDC has started importing 200 pregnant Girolando cows from Brazil to Milk Valley Farm, targeting a long-term herd expansion to cut Botswana’s dairy deficit. Biodiversity Leadership: A Botswana wildlife veterinarian, Robert Aruho, has been appointed IUCN antelope specialist group chair for 2026–2030. Wildlife Conservation & Tourism: Botswana’s tourism ecosystem continues to draw attention, including coverage of how lodges and protected areas connect visitors to the Okavango Delta’s wildlife. Energy & Infrastructure: SADC calls for more investment in regional energy transmission, highlighting electrification gaps and interconnector projects that could boost cross-border power trade. Mining & Environment Watch: Cobre Limited reports progress on copper recovery work in Botswana, including community engagement tied to its environmental impact assessment. Agriculture Diversification (Hemp): Botswana is trialling industrial hemp as a new growth and jobs option beyond diamonds, with officials citing strong potential under local conditions.