SADC Trade Push: South Africa took over the SADC chair with a drive to lift intra-regional trade to 50% and push beneficiation of critical minerals, with Ronald Lamola spelling out priorities from industrialisation to infrastructure and social development. Digital Travel Boost: President Ramaphosa launched South Africa’s Electronic Travel Authorisation, starting with eligible travellers from China, India, Indonesia and Mexico, aiming to speed entry, strengthen border security and support tourism and investment. Migration Crackdown Costs: Home Affairs says it has spent nearly R300m repatriating foreign nationals, while a Wits researcher argues the strategy’s outcomes are unclear and unemployment is unchanged. Climate Shock Warning: Experts warn a “super” El Niño could hit Southern Africa hard, with potential economic losses of $10bn–$20bn and heightened drought and wildfire risks. Electricity Reform Watch: A new report flags ongoing transmission and distribution constraints as policy and market changes reshape South Africa’s power sector. Tourism & Culture: Tygerberg Children’s Choir won top honours at a global youth choral festival hosted in South Africa, while World Elephant Day renewed calls to protect the country’s elephant populations.