Democracy Watch (Ethiopia): Ethiopia has entered the final stretch before its June 1 general election, with mandatory electoral silence now in effect and more than 54 million registered voters expected to cast ballots. AI for Education (Ethiopia): Ethiopia plans to launch an AI university starting in 2027, aiming to build local capacity and support its Digital Ethiopia agenda. Energy Reform (Ethiopia): A new draft energy policy targets full cost recovery for state power utilities by 2028, with tariff reforms and a shift toward targeted support for low-income households. Regional Health Security (IGAD): IGAD has launched a $31.9m pandemic preparedness project to strengthen cross-border surveillance, lab capacity, and emergency workforce training across Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda. Nuclear Moves (Rwanda): Rwanda signed a nuclear cooperation deal with Russia focused on nuclear medicine and potential research reactor work, signaling a broader shift in partnerships. Climate & Public Health: A WHO-led study warns snakebite risks may rise as venomous snakes shift habitats with warming temperatures and expanding human pressure. Tech & Security (Horn of Africa): Rwanda’s police leadership is pushing tech-driven, cross-border crime prevention strategies. Trade & Connectivity (Africa/China): Coverage around China-Africa ties highlights zero-tariff access and ongoing cooperation, including people-to-people events tied to the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations.