Indian Ocean Connectivity: Direct flights between the Comoros and Madagascar have resumed after nearly four years, following technical and administrative work between civil aviation authorities—expected to boost travel, trade, tourism, and regional ties. Marine Environment: Scientists from 21 African countries, including Comoros, are meeting in Accra to harmonise microplastics monitoring protocols using nuclear and isotopic techniques, aiming for comparable data and stronger coastal protection policies. Digital Payments: Visa Pay is expanding across Africa via a software kit for banks and mobile money operators, with Comoros listed among markets adopting the service for virtual cards and remittances. Kiswahili Momentum: Burundi hosted a regional conference on promoting Kiswahili, with a focus on using AI to spread the language; meanwhile, Tanzania highlighted Kiswahili’s global diplomatic role at World Kiswahili Day events. Regional Governance & Corruption: The 2026 Ibrahim Index reports Africa’s anti-corruption average improving since 2016, with Rwanda and Seychelles topping the continent. Gulf Shipping Tensions: Escalation around the Strait of Hormuz is reshaping tanker and crude transit patterns, with legal changes affecting Iranian oil sales and rerouting of commercial vessels.