Red Sea Security: Yemen’s Houthis have seized the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait and now control the Red Sea coast, underscoring how Iran-backed armed groups are reshaping regional shipping risks. Ebola Update (DR Congo): Congo’s worst Ebola outbreak has passed 7,000 cases, with authorities saying the peak may have been reached, while new flare-ups and spread to a seventh province keep pressure on overstretched health systems. Kenya Finance Regulation: Kenya’s central bank moves to rein in “too important to fail” banks, proposing limits on expansion and new products for systemically risky lenders. Kenya Politics: President Ruto seeks to cool ODM-UDA tensions, promising to protect Raila Odinga’s legacy. Nigeria Courts & Media: Peter Obi’s credentials face fresh court suits seeking release of original certificates, while Amnesty condemns alleged police targeting of a journalist. Health & Access (Kenya): A new specialised eye hospital opens in Kisumu to bring surgical and specialist care closer to Nyanza and Western Kenya. Business & Trade (Benin): Benin pushes “Made in Benin” cotton value-add at home, aiming to keep more raw cotton benefits within the country. Regional Mobility (EAC): Visa-free entry for EAC citizens into Kenya is clarified as separate from business registration and local licensing rules.