Roads & Trade Links: Roads Authority says it has finalised feasibility and detailed designs to rehabilitate the Lilongwe–Mchinji (M12) Road, but civil works are waiting on funding; meanwhile patching is ongoing and road safety groups warn potholes are endangering pedestrians and heavy-vehicle drivers. Migration & Regional Business Risk: South Africa’s anti-immigrant unrest has triggered mass deportations and repatriations, with Malawi among the hardest hit as tens of thousands of nationals leave; economists warn labour shortages could hit sectors that rely on foreign workers. Power & Accountability: The AG has referred disputed MAREP Phase 9 contracts to the Anti-Corruption Bureau for criminal investigations, as government seeks refunds of over K1.4 billion linked to alleged advance payments without delivery. Forex & Export Pressure: UTM leader Dalitso Kabambe says Malawi’s exchange-rate policy is distorting the market—encouraging imports while penalising exporters—fueling a fresh political fight over who benefits from forex access. Agribusiness & Market Access: IFAD-backed construction of a modern agriculture market in Lilongwe (MK8bn, 24 months) aims to improve produce sales and push value addition. Mining & Health: Malawi’s artisanal gold sector faces scrutiny over widespread mercury use, raising health and environmental concerns. Climate Resilience: World Bank praises Malawi’s Social Cash Transfer Programme for climate-smart support to nearly 300,000 households during droughts. ICT & Standards: Lilongwe Water Board wins an MBS award for maintaining an ISO 9001 quality system, boosting confidence for trade and service delivery.