Trade & Integration: President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud signed Somalia’s AfCFTA agreement into law, clearing the last domestic step for formal accession and opening the door to a 1.4bn-consumer market, though analysts warn the real test is boosting production and exports. Security & Politics (AUSSOM): AU troop-contributing defence ministers meeting in Kampala said Somalia’s unresolved political disputes are the biggest barrier to lasting peace, stressing that military pressure and funding won’t work without reconciliation and stronger institutions. Regional Diplomacy (AUSSOM Summit): Kenya’s Deputy President Kithure Kindiki arrived in Entebbe to represent Nairobi at the AUSSOM extraordinary summit, where leaders are expected to shape financing and prevent a security vacuum during the mission’s transition. Maritime Security (Red Sea): Saudi Arabia announced a Saudi-led, 14-nation defensive maritime defence alliance to protect shipping through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, with Somalia named among founding members. Governance & Economy (Mogadishu): Somalia’s cabinet reviewed security operations against al-Shabaab, approved a business registration and licensing bill to improve the investment climate, and endorsed a Turkey religious cooperation pact. Humanitarian Pressure: Save the Children reported severe malnutrition treatment in Baidoa nearly tripled in six months, warning drought and aid constraints are worsening hunger. Politics (Transitional Rule): Nabad iyo Nolol rejected calls to return Somalia to transitional government, arguing it would derail progress on the constitutional and electoral process.