Biodiversity Finance for Gabon: Gabon launched “Gabon Infini,” a Project Finance for Permanence plan aiming to mobilize up to US$200 million over a decade for community and conservation investments, supporting its 30x30x30 goal to protect 30% of terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems by 2030. Congo Basin Climate Warning: Former Gabon environment minister Lee White warned that losing the Congo Basin could destabilize Africa’s water cycle and trigger water wars, calling the forest the continent’s “pumping heart.” Gabon’s AfCFTA Push: Gabon moved to validate its updated AfCFTA national strategy, focusing on how SMEs and young entrepreneurs can better access intra-African markets. Regional SME Support (Cameroon-EU): Cameroon and the EU agreed to deepen cooperation on financing, digitalization and value chains for SMEs, including programs that also reach Gabon. Mining & Rainforest Debate: Gabon’s former environment minister argued that critical minerals development in the Congo could protect rainforest by creating jobs and giving countries more control over resource value. Aviation Costs & Connectivity: IATA said Africa’s aviation is held back by high operating costs, weak infrastructure and regulatory failures, urging governments to treat aviation as an economic development engine. Maritime Security Risk: A Russian-flagged, US/EU-sanctioned cargo ship was hit by drones off Africa, raising fears of the Russia-Ukraine conflict spreading into African waters.