El Niño warning: The African Union urged countries to prepare for the 2026/2027 El Niño, projected as the strongest since 1950, warning of droughts, floods, heatwaves, food and water stress, disease risks and wider economic shocks. Wildlife governance probe: Allegations swirl around two missing Augusta Westland helicopters meant for Botswana’s anti-poaching and wildlife work, with questions about payments, delivery and oversight. Mining push in Botswana: Nova Africa signed to acquire assets of the long-defunct Mupane Gold Mine, aiming for a modern, sustainable operation pending approvals. Base metals find: Blaze Minerals reported a promising copper-lead-zinc mineralized zone at its Dinokwe project in Botswana, with lab work under way. Community conservation in KAZA: KAZA stakeholders met to tackle human-wildlife conflict and illegal fishing, while Botswana’s Chobe Enclave Conservation Trust reported P20.3m in 2025 income activities. Health security strategy: Health ministers in five African countries backed an eight-year plan to strengthen preparedness for public health emergencies, with Botswana included. Social spending debate: Botswana’s finance minister said a proposed P4.1bn annual social spending package may be too costly for the fragile economy, risking higher deficits and debt. Dibete hemp rollout: Botswana moved toward commercial hemp production after successful trials, with Dibete Farm set as a first hub for licensed growers. Okavango documentary spotlight: A new film, “Batho ba Metsi,” puts Delta communities and their water knowledge at the centre, supported by Okavango Diamond Company.