Djibouti in the fast lane: The IMF projects Djibouti’s economy to grow about 6.0% in 2026, keeping it among the continent’s quicker movers, with momentum tied to its strategic role on major shipping routes. Digital infrastructure push: A new look at China’s “Digital Silk Road” highlights fiber, data centers, and satellite links spanning Djibouti’s coast and beyond—framed as boosting local digital capacity. Green land restoration: The Great Green Wall effort is described as shifting from a “tree wall” to a mosaic of restored landscapes across Sahel nations, with Djibouti named among the pioneering countries. Climate risk watch: The World Meteorological Organization warns El Niño is likely to develop (80% chance) and could bring hotter conditions and shifting rainfall patterns—important for drought and flood planning across the region. Horn of Africa context: Election-related updates from Ethiopia note security incidents and polling disruptions, underscoring how instability can affect livelihoods and local resilience.