Zambia Election Tensions: International observers say Zambia’s vote was marred by intimidation claims, abductions and a six-hour counting pause after reports of violence and missing ballot papers, with police arresting suspects after a polling agent was killed. DRC-Rwanda Peace Monitoring: The DRC and Rwanda agreed to push two new initiatives to strengthen monitoring and verification under the Washington Accords, with a trilateral planning conference set for October and a revised operations order expected. Botswana Security Partnership: North Carolina National Guard personnel are working with Botswana Defence Force during Southern Accord 2026, including intelligence and legal cooperation at Gaborone Technical College. Water Utilities Financial Strain: WUC posted a P554.6m loss for FY ended March 31, 2024, citing higher costs, provisions and weaker cash reserves, while trying to improve collections and water security. Tax Push for Digital VAT: BURS is targeting over P400m in extra VAT from remote services, using regional support to modernise enforcement. Diamonds & Markets: Okavango Diamond Company is set to access a wider buyer network via a Dubai Multi Commodities Centre tender platform, while the Botswana Stock Exchange doubles down on its 10X by 2030 growth plan beyond diamonds. Conservation & Livelihoods: A Botswana-based conservation push highlights why rangelands matter, and a Kgalagadi lion census is underway with women field technicians leading monitoring.