Education & Publishing Policy: Nigeria’s NERDC has launched a fresh 2026 textbook assessment and ranking drive, ordering authors and publishers to resubmit even previously approved titles under new quality standards—starting with Primary 1/4, JSS 1 and SSS 1—raising the stakes for schoolbook publishers. Creative Economy & Tax: Kenya’s Finance Bill 2026 is drawing backlash from creatives over proposed changes to how royalties are defined and taxed, with artists warning it could raise costs and squeeze an already struggling sector. Media Integrity & Fraud: South Africa’s FSCA warned the public about deepfake impersonations of News24 finance journalists Maya Fisher-French and Bruce Whitfield promoting a fake “Quantum AI” investment with unrealistic returns. Local Governance & Accountability: Kenya’s High Court temporarily suspended NTSA’s smart driving licence and automated fines system, while Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja suspended officials Patrick Analo and Charles Kerich amid corruption-linked allegations. Arts & Community: Benin’s National Children’s Day art programme highlighted student winners across painting, graphics and fashion design, underscoring how local arts initiatives feed future creators. Environment & Carbon Markets: The African Development Bank pushed back on Liberia’s carbon trading plans, rejecting claims the policy was tied to Bank support and flagging civil society concerns over land rights and consent.