Regional Currency Push: ECOWAS confirmed a phased launch of the ECO for July 2027, but key issues around exchange-rate rules, monetary governance and how it will work alongside CFA arrangements remain unresolved. Trade Tensions: G20 trade talks in Milwaukee are expected to deadlock as the US presses partners over forced labour and industrial overcapacity while China rejects claims its exports are driven by excess capacity. Security & Shipping: The EU is moving toward an observer role in a Saudi-led maritime defence effort as Houthi attacks keep disrupting the Red Sea route and threaten global logistics. Deportations: The US Supreme Court allowed the Trump administration to resume rapid “third-country” deportations while it fast-tracks a December hearing on the policy’s legality. Ghana Governance: Ghana’s Audit Service is urged to enforce surcharge and disallowance powers and modernise audits with digital/AI tools after claims of GHS100bn losses from irregularities. West Africa Sovereignty: Burkina Faso opened its first gold refinery, aiming to process and certify gold at home amid a wider regional push to add value locally. Kenya Health & Business: MEDS launched a new commercial company to supply Kenya’s private healthcare market, with plans to expand across East Africa. Mali Conflict: JNIM ambushed a convoy near Niono, killing soldiers including Russian Africa Corps personnel, highlighting the security strain in central Mali. Nigeria Creative Economy: Nigeria is gearing up for CANEX 2026 in Lagos (Nov 5–8) to connect creatives with investors and global markets.