Regional Labour Mobility: Tanzania took over the chair of the East and Horn of Africa labour migration committee in Dodoma, aiming for safer, more orderly migration through policy dialogue and coordinated measures. Sport & Travel Access: Somali referee Omar Artan, denied entry to the US for the 2026 World Cup, was later appointed to officiate the UEFA Super Cup—an example of how border decisions can derail qualified professionals. Djibouti in the Spotlight: Djibouti’s assistant referee Liban Abdoulrazack Ahmed worked alongside Artan in the Super Cup, keeping Djibouti visible in international sport. Red Sea Shipping Pressure: Analysts say rising Houthi threats are worsening maritime chokepoints around Bab el-Mandeb and the Red Sea, pushing up costs and disrupting trade routes that pass near Djibouti. US Visa Rules Hit Travel Plans: The US made its visa bond program permanent for 50 countries, and also consolidated routine visa processing across Africa into 20 hubs, forcing some travelers to cross borders for interviews. Visa-Free Moves in Africa: From Jan 1, 2027, Nigerians will be able to enter Chad and the Republic of the Congo without entry visas, as countries expand free movement.