ECOWAS Integration Push: President Julius Maada Bio urged West African leaders to deliver results for citizens—jobs, democracy, integration and peace—at the commissioning of the new China-aided ECOWAS headquarters in Abuja, described as the “Eye of Africa.” Roads for Growth: Sierra Leone’s regional business environment gets a boost as governments roll out major road rehabilitation plans under SPARK-style infrastructure drives, with the focus on connectivity that supports trade and logistics. Forensic Upgrade: Sierra Leone Police commissioned a new Transnational Organised Crime Unit forensic lab at Hastings to strengthen scientific investigations and prosecutions, targeting illicit drug trafficking and other cross-border crime. AfCFTA Momentum: Sierra Leone received continental recognition for AfCFTA implementation progress after completing key steps like gazetting its tariff schedule and conducting a readiness assessment. Creator Economy Boost: Google and Idris Elba launched a $1m initiative for 100,000 African creators, including Sierra Leone, offering free access to Gemini and other AI tools to cut production costs and scale content. Social Protection in Pujehun: NaCSA completed Economic Inclusion grant disbursements to 842 extremely poor households in Pujehun, with women-headed and disability-inclusive targeting to support small income activities. Maritime Oversight: Parliament’s transport committee began inspection tours of Sierra Leone’s maritime institutions, including port operations and terminal management, to improve efficiency and safety. Disaster Risk Watch: NDMA intensified checks in Freetown against illegal coastal and right-of-way developments, including unauthorised petrol station construction, to reduce public safety and environmental risks.