South Africa xenophobia spillover: Anti-foreigner mobs in the Western Cape have driven hundreds of immigrants, including Malawians and Mozambicans, into hiding in mountains and community halls, as Mozambique says five of its citizens were killed in Mossel Bay while South African police confirm only two Mozambicans died and dispute the rest. Malawi social protection squeeze: Malawi’s 2026/27 budget cuts social protection from K217bn to K123bn, threatening support for about one million beneficiaries, with major drops to cash transfers and public works. Diplomatic cost cuts: Malawi reduces diplomats abroad from 193 to 139, cutting 54 posts to save on salaries and mission running costs. Fertiliser factory stalled: Dzombe’s Dowa fertiliser plant remains idle because MEPA environmental approval is still pending. Medicines tariff backlash: Government has raised import duties on essential medicines, but officials have not clearly explained how patients will be protected from higher prices. Regional finance push: FDH Bank says its Mozambique expansion will strengthen trade finance across Southern Africa. Sports & local interest: Creck Sporting’s new coach Chisomo Nkhoma says she’ll first listen to players after a winless start. Tech & skills: Datacom Malawi donates MK10m to support ICTAM’s ICT Expo 2026 in Lilongwe.