IMF & Malawi Finance: The IMF says it is stepping up support for Ethiopia, The Gambia and Burkina Faso, and is in accelerated talks with Malawi on a new financial assistance programme as Middle East conflict keeps pushing up energy and fertilizer costs. Fertiliser Industry: Malawi’s much-hyped Dowa fertiliser plant remains idle because it is still waiting on environmental approval from MEPA, delaying production plans. Public Health & Trade: Malawi faces backlash after Parliament approved higher import tariffs on essential medicines, including malaria drugs and antibiotics, with health advocates warning prices could rise for patients. Governance & Agriculture Finance: Controversy is growing after Paul Taulo—linked to a 2023 murder case—was appointed CEO of SFFRFM, raising ethical and public trust concerns around a key fertilizer support institution. Digital Economy: Datacom Malawi donated MK10 million to support ICTAM’s ICT 2026 expo, urging stronger collaboration to drive Malawi’s digital transformation. Energy Access: Germany-funded EnDev demand-side subsidies are reported to have reached over 112,000 people with improved cookstoves and 58,000 with solar products across several districts. Transport & Safety: Blantyre residents are alarmed by widening cracks on Kamba Bridge, a major commuter link, calling for urgent assessment and repairs. Humanitarian Logistics: DHL launched the DHL Academy of Humanitarian Logistics (DAHL) to train local responders in customs, dangerous goods handling and safety, aiming to speed up aid delivery. Regional Migration Tensions: South Africa’s anti-migrant violence continues to drive Malawians and Mozambicans to seek refuge, while Malawi says repatriation support will be available for citizens who voluntarily request it.