World Cup Kickoff: Mexico hosts South Africa at Estadio Azteca to open the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with South Korea vs Czechia following in Group A and the tournament rolling out across North America. Xenophobia & Repatriation: South Africa’s anti-immigrant violence has driven the first wave of Nigerian returns: Home Affairs confirms 268 Nigerians repatriated from South Africa to Lagos, with more processed for a second flight. Public Health: Africa CDC warns Ebola response is lagging as contact tracing gaps grow in the DRC and Uganda, with the outbreak now topping 600 cases and drawing US attention. Safety & Governance: South Africa adds 248 newly trained building inspectors to strengthen compliance after deadly collapses, while Namibia holds an internal audit awareness day to boost accountability. Energy & Finance: Standard Bank reports renewable energy finance in Africa surged in 2025, and South Africa’s renewables push gets a boost as Eskom launches a new unit. Health Tech: Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre unveils Africa’s first liver perfusion machine to expand transplant options and cut waiting-list deaths. Trade & Business: ECOWAS and the AU deepen early-warning cooperation, while coverage highlights how China’s zero-tariff access still leaves small African producers facing quality, credit and logistics hurdles. Sports & Culture: Cape Town Marathon becomes Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Major.