Microplastics Monitoring: Scientists from 21 African countries, including Comoros, are meeting in Accra to harmonise coastal microplastics monitoring protocols using nuclear and isotopic techniques, aiming for shared standards and comparable data to guide evidence-based marine pollution policies. Mining & Forest Loss: A new study warns that mine development is driving wider deforestation across Africa—every hectare cleared for mines can trigger much larger forest loss, with the effect especially strong in DR Congo’s cobalt-rich regions. Academic Freedom Watch: A global ranking using the V-Dem Academic Freedom Index shows steep declines in academic freedom across many countries from 2015 to 2025, with the biggest drops in Nicaragua, Myanmar, and Afghanistan. Health Risks: A global study links alcohol intake and smoking as top shared risk factors for both breast cancer and atrial fibrillation, suggesting population-wide behavior changes could prevent a large share of cases. Swahili + AI: Burundi hosted a Kiswahili promotion conference focused on using AI and digital platforms to expand Swahili in education, research, and technology. Fintech Partnerships (Comoros): YWO announced a relaunch and expansion of its global affiliate partnership programs, adding clearer commission qualification paths and enhanced real-time reporting tools for partners.