Fuel Costs Relief: Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) cut maximum pump prices effective midnight 19 June—petrol to K5,619/l (-9.5%), diesel to K6,306/l (-5.7%), and kerosene to K4,771/l (-16.43%)—under the Automatic Pricing Mechanism after lower import costs. Cost-of-Living Pushback: Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) called the cuts “a mockery,” arguing they’re too small after earlier steep increases and urging government to review levies and charges. Social Protection Under Strain: Donor funding is falling fast, leaving Malawi’s social protection budget heavily dependent on partners; UNICEF warns about 1 million ultra-poor people could lose support, while WFP says it may suspend operations without $34.82m. Consumer Safety Crackdown: Competition and Fair Trading Commission (CFTC) found 649 expired products in 14 shops across several districts, with expired drinks a major share, urging shoppers to check expiry dates and certification marks. Mining Update: Chilwa Minerals says it has more than doubled the Mpyupyu heavy mineral sands resource to 109.6 million tonnes, strengthening its case for future development planning. El Niño Funding Call: FAO and WFP launched a $202m anticipatory action appeal to protect about 8.8 million people in 22 high-risk countries, including Malawi, from drought, floods and storms. Repatriation Logistics: In Durban, more buses are arriving at Sherwood Hall as Malawians await return, with overcrowding and camp management issues driving renewed urgency. Agribusiness Market Access: Heifer International handed over livestock infrastructure in Mzimba—cattle market, veterinary house and dip tank—aimed at better prices, healthier herds and stronger rural bargaining power. Jobs and Courts: Malawi Enterprise Development Fund (MEDF) plans to appeal an Industrial Relations Court ruling that found it unlawfully dismissed 55 employees during probation. Inflation Watch: Malawi’s inflation eased to 23.4% in May from 24.3% in April, mainly due to softer food prices, though non-food costs remain high.