Mali Mining & Regulation: Cora Gold says its Sanankoro gold project in Mali is moving toward construction readiness, with the FEED process set to finish in the second half of 2026 and permitting still being actively engaged with the government. Mali Security & Conflict: A new investigation reports unexploded Russian-made cluster bomblets found in northern Mali, despite Mali being a state party to the Cluster Munitions Convention. Mali Armed Groups & Governance: Analysts say Mali’s junta has paid nearly $1bn to Russian mercenaries since 2021, but results remain unclear as insurgents adapt and expand. Mali Corporate Scrutiny: Adamus Resources denies links to Mali allegations involving its sister company MIKO-SA, after Mali raised regulatory concerns and a 90-day ultimatum for Nguvu Mining Group. Energy & Industry: Choplife Gaming secured PMU Mali licensing to launch betPawa in Mali, bringing mobile-first betting and casino services with local payments. Regional Trade & Transport: JAPTU Ghana calls for consultation before axle load enforcement, warning that top-down rules could hurt operators and raise costs. Public Health & Development: The US State Department, with SC Johnson and the Global Fund, plans to deploy “Guardian” spatial repellents to protect 60m people from malaria over three years. Environment & Waste: Africa Day 2026 groups GAIA and Break Free From Plastic Africa renew calls to stop “waste colonialism,” citing toxic e-waste, plastic and textile dumping across African hotspots.