Solar & Power Access: WeLight, Africa’s biggest solar mini-grid operator, raised $31m with IFC backing to expand in Nigeria and the DRC; it already runs nearly 190 mini-grids in Mali and Madagascar serving 800,000+ people. Mining & Value Capture: Kodal Minerals says production has started at its Bougouni lithium project in southern Mali, targeting 10,000 tonnes/month of spodumene concentrate and citing strong price recovery; meanwhile, Ghana GoldBod will price gold from July 1 using LBMA-linked benchmarks, reflecting a wider West African push toward tighter oversight and more value from gold. Construction & Circular Economy: Mali’s Bamagreen project (phase II) will turn plastic waste into construction and electrification products in Bamako and Ségou, aiming to recover 960+ tonnes of plastic annually and train 150 people. Transport & Logistics: Ghana is planning a 1,012km rail freight corridor from Takoradi Port to Hamile to shift cargo off roads and strengthen trade links with Mali and the Sahel. Security & Infrastructure Risk: Niger’s Niamey airport attack shows jihadists are adapting tactics, including deception to bypass tightened security. Displacement Economy: A new report estimates Africa’s refugees and IDPs generate about $27bn in annual income, highlighting a major opportunity for private-sector investment in host communities. Mali-linked Health Support: Monaco’s No Finish Line funding cycle delivered €375,245, including €98,526 for Africa-linked medical support that included surgeries in Mali.