Djibouti’s Growth Test: With President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh starting a new term, Djibouti is still powered by ports, logistics and free zones—but the economy is flagged as fragile, not inclusive enough, highly indebted, and exposed to shocks from Red Sea and Middle East tensions that can quickly lift energy and living costs. Coastal Health Watch: Researchers report a “chemical cocktail” of common painkillers and antibiotics in Djibouti’s Gulf of Tadjourah waters, likely linked to untreated urban wastewater near Djibouti City—raising ecological risk for coral and fish nurseries. EU Travel Safety Update: The EU Air Safety List was updated to 154 banned airlines; Djibouti is named among countries whose certified carriers are banned from EU skies, while Air Express Algeria is newly added. Visa Pressure on Travelers: A US plan to cut visa-processing hubs across Africa could hit thousands of African students and applicants, adding another hurdle for travel and study plans. Regional Travel Context: Red Sea shipping faces renewed risk as Houthi rebels vow to block Israeli navigation—an issue that can ripple into freight, insurance and travel routes for the Horn of Africa.