Energy & Regional Trade: The World Bank says its West Africa power integration programme has extended electricity access to over 3 million people, building 4,000+ km of high-voltage lines linking 15 countries to enable cross-border power trading and support jobs and utility strengthening. OMVG Energy Governance: Guinea’s new OMVG chair, Laye Sekou Camara, warned that cash-flow strains and contract disputes could delay key projects like the Sambangalou Dam and the OMVG interconnection, urging member states to clear dues and fund 2026 operations while tightening transparency and reforms. Maritime Security & Guinea-Bissau Link: The Obangame Express OE26 exercise (three weeks, ending May 1) brought together 30+ countries to tackle piracy, illegal fishing and trafficking in the Gulf of Guinea, with Guinea-Bissau among participants. Shipping & Sanctions Loopholes: A report highlights how some African flag states were added to shipping rankings, arguing Russia used weaker maritime registries as a cover for a shadow fleet—Guinea-Bissau is named. Digital Connectivity & Regulation: Coverage on Starlink’s entry in Uganda flags how licensing, a local ground presence, and tax/security clearance can shape satellite internet rollouts. Policy & Civic Space: A global press-freedom map from RSF shows worsening conditions worldwide, with most countries now rated “difficult” or “very serious,” underscoring the broader environment for business and information.