Mali Security: Insurgents and allied Tuareg forces hit multiple Malian towns and army positions in a coordinated push from the north to the south, with fighting reported around Anefis, Aguelhoc, Gao, Sévaré and Kenioroba; Mali’s army says attacks were repelled and claims dozens of militants killed, but the scale underlines how hard it is to restore stability. Sahel Geopolitics: A report says Russia is stepping up its security role around Mali, including a weapons-and-ammunition shipment escorted by a Russian Navy vessel, while the U.S. continues backing Niger with a security package—showing intensifying great-power competition in the Sahel. Gold & Mining Governance: Mali is tightening control of artisanal gold with a new state regulatory body, as regional governments also crack down on illegal mining elsewhere—aiming to curb unlicensed operations and protect local livelihoods. Power & Investment: Solar mini-grid operator WeLight plans a major $650m expansion across Africa, including Mali, as it targets rapid growth in electricity access—an energy push that matters for industrial activity and jobs. Trade & Finance: TradeMark Africa adds new board members, including Mali’s Safia Boly, as it scales efforts to boost intra-African trade and support firms across borders.