Capital Markets Access: Tanzania’s Timiza Plus Fund and Zan Timiza ETF were launched in Dar es Salaam to make it easier for ordinary investors to participate in capital markets, with regulators and the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange among key stakeholders. Humanitarian Reform: A Burundi-based UN Volunteer argues the “Humanitarian Reset” must formally recognize volunteers, who often keep services running when access collapses. Connectivity & Business Risk: In DRC’s Fizi Territory, mobile and internet shutdowns have stretched beyond a month, disrupting communication for residents and journalists and raising knock-on costs for local trade. Regional Labour Mobility: Tanzania took over chairing of the EAC labour migration committee, aiming for safer, orderly migration and stronger coordination with the private sector. EAC Digital Push: EAC and Germany launched the second AI4EAC Challenge for 20,000 East Africans, adding an Ebola response track to spur regional innovation. Trade & Growth: Tanzania’s MV Liemba overhaul (Sh34bn) is nearing completion, with commercial operations targeted for September 1, supporting lake transport links to Burundi, Zambia and DRC. Burundi Security: Bujumbura police reported three bodies found and over 800 arrests in high-risk areas as crime-control operations intensify. EAC Trade Fair: Eight countries are set for the EAC Trade Fair in Mwanza (Aug 28–Sep 6), with Burundi among confirmed participants.