Chad Governance & Rights: A new analysis says Chad’s opposition is being squeezed back toward one-party rule after eight opposition leaders were arrested, sentenced to eight years without parole, and the Supreme Court dissolved their coalition. Lake Chad Security: A Nigerian think tank warns that the reported killing of ISWAP commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki could spark fresh attacks across Nigeria’s North-East and the wider Lake Chad region. Solar Tech & Power Access: China hit a record for solar component exports in March 2026, and African demand is climbing fast—Nigeria’s imports reportedly jumped 519% to 1.2 GW. Food Security in Chad: WFP launched resilience projects across multiple Chad regions, backing small producers with land access, seeds, hydro-agriculture, cooperatives, and climate-smart farming. Trade Barriers for Women: In Malawi, researchers say simplified trade regimes help, but women cross-border traders still face harassment, finance gaps, customs friction, weak border infrastructure, and digital exclusion. Terror Focus West Africa: A rights group says ISIS-linked operations are increasingly concentrated in West Africa and the Sahel, raising pressure on regional security. Population & Water Pressure: New research highlights Africa’s youth surge and Chad’s high fertility, while broader reporting flags desertification and worsening water stress as long-term tech and development challenges.