Lesotho–UAE Trade Talks: Dubai Chambers met Lesotho’s Prime Minister Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane in Johannesburg to explore stronger trade and investment ties, with a push for a Dubai–Lesotho Business Forum and cooperation in logistics, infrastructure and the digital economy. Big Investment Deal: Lesotho signed a binding agreement with Convalt Energy for the Kobong Hydropower and AI Data Centre project worth about 98bn maloti (US$6.2bn), pairing 1,200MW hydropower with a green-powered AI data centre in Mokhotlong—aimed at boosting energy independence and jobs (still subject to feasibility and approvals). Security & Jobs: PM Matekane pledged to recruit 500 more soldiers into the Lesotho Defence Force, citing threats from drug trafficking and substance abuse, as 547 recruits completed training. Digital Push in Rural Areas: Lesotho urged youth to embrace technology at the Digital Innovators Summit, while Econet Telecom Lesotho handed over a telecoms tower and a kitchen at Senekane Primary School to improve connectivity and community services. Regional Migration Pressure: South Africa’s President Ramaphosa promised action on illegal migration amid anti-immigrant protests, stressing law enforcement must be state-led and not vigilante. Regional Health Watch: Kenya and Uganda launched a joint assessment at Busia One Stop Border Post with ECSA-HC to review Ebola preparedness, screening systems and procedures. Water & Health Concerns: A report highlights unsafe drinking water risks across many African countries, underlining the link between water quality, public health and economic development.