Energy & Trade: Sierra Leone is positioning itself as a regional gas hub, with plans for an LNG import push and cross-border infrastructure as demand is expected to outgrow domestic supply. Agribusiness Jobs: The World Bank approved a $40m grant to boost Sierra Leone’s agricultural value chains, aiming to raise productivity, unlock private investment, and create jobs. Power & Infrastructure: President Bio commissioned the Manowa Bridge in Kailahun, ending ferry crossings over the Moa River and improving access for farmers and traders. Petroleum Investment: Sierra Leone signed a $225m offshore oil exploration deal with a Nigerian firm, while Aminata & Sons clarified its proposed petroleum tax deferment is a payment postponement to support fuel storage expansion. Banking & Finance: The Bank of Sierra Leone said Union Trust Bank’s liquidation followed years of capital shortfalls and failure to meet prudential rules, and it also raised the monetary policy rate to 17% amid inflation pressures. Mining Local Content: SLLCA audited Leone Rock Mining and flagged compliance gaps, with follow-up engagement expected. Shipping & Security: A report warns Russia’s “Dark Fleet” is expanding into Africa, raising risks for coastal states tied to weak insurance and sanctions evasion. Education Integrity: A new report highlights growing “phone exam” malpractice in WASSCE, pointing to a serious threat to education standards.