Critical Minerals & Rare Earths: India says under PM Modi it signed 24 agreements with 35 nations in two years to secure rare earths, critical minerals and chips—aiming to strengthen global supply chains for green energy and microchips. Tobacco Market Pressure: Malawi’s tobacco earnings reached $180.9m after 11 weeks, but prices fell 16.5% as oversupply and fewer buyers bite; projected output (197m kg) is above demand (170m kg). Telecom Competition Watch: TNM’s bid to acquire Open Connect Limited (OCL) is drawing mixed views as the Competition and Fair Trading Commission reviews whether it could reduce competition or raise costs. Investment Climate Worry: World Bank data shows Malawi’s gross investment slid to 11.1% of GDP in 2024, with private investment averaging 9%—a drag on jobs and growth. Power Sector Reality Check: ESCOM is replacing ageing wooden poles with prestressed concrete on two transmission lines, but analysts warn this won’t fix Malawi’s deeper electricity crisis. Construction Integrity Push: Government warns construction players against corruption and poor workmanship, threatening sanctions and exclusion. Industrial Parks Delayed: Three industrial parks are stalled as land compensation and partnership agreements are still being finalised. Independence & Jobs Debate: As Malawi marks 62 years, activists and scholars argue political freedom isn’t matched by economic independence—highlighting poverty, unemployment and weak services. El Niño Preparedness: FAO and WFP call for over $200m to protect 8.8m people in high-risk countries, including Malawi, from the return of El Niño impacts. Xenophobia Fallout: Repatriation efforts at South Africa’s Musina border continue amid protests and humanitarian strain, with Malawians among those rebuilding after fleeing attacks.