Sahel Restoration: Africa’s “Wall of Trees” is scaling up an ~8,000-km living barrier across the Sahel, aiming to restore degraded land, curb desertification, boost food security, and create jobs—using a mix of forests, grasslands, wetlands, and farmland restoration rather than a single tree line. Climate Lessons: A look at China’s Great Green Wall highlights both promise and limits: fast-growing plantations can capture carbon quickly, but long-term storage and biodiversity depend on restoring natural ecosystems, not just planting. Water Stress Data: A new global map shows extreme water stress in countries like Kuwait and Yemen, underscoring how climate shifts and rising demand are pushing freshwater use beyond what nature can replenish. Regional Connectivity: ProCharter Aviation launched four new East Africa air cargo corridors, including weekly routes linking Nairobi with Mogadishu, Kismayo, Djibouti, and Juba to speed trade and supply chains. Djibouti in the Spotlight: European naval mine-clearing planning for the Strait of Hormuz continues to rely on multinational basing and support in Djibouti, as ships prepare for a safer reopening scenario. Cyber Resilience: IGAD’s regional cyber drill wrapped up with calls for stronger cross-border cooperation and plans for an information-sharing center to better defend critical infrastructure.