Border Security Crackdown: South Africa’s Border Management Authority says it intercepted a Malawi-linked truck at Beitbridge carrying about 713,000 grams of methaqualone (ABBA), worth nearly R1 billion, arresting three suspects; the case was postponed after a valuation dispute emerged in court. Anti-Xenophobia Pressure: South African tourism warned xenophobic attacks are already cutting travel bookings across Africa, while authorities urged firm action against perpetrators and intimidation. Malawi Electoral Commission Tensions: Malawi Congress Party accused the DPP-led government of undermining MEC independence after MEC Chief Elections Officer Andrew Mpesi resigned and the government moved to relocate MEC headquarters. Public Hospital Corruption Probe: A parliamentary inquiry into Malawi’s health sector alleges patients are forced to pay bribes for “free” treatment, with fake receipts and stolen drugs also reported. Business Registration Reform: Government launched the Companies, Registrations and Intellectual Property Centre (CRIPC) to streamline company and IP services under a semi-autonomous agency. Fuel Shortages Hit Services: Malawi began rationing diesel for hospitals, water utilities and security as supply strain disrupts transport and business. Food Security Support: India donated 1,000 metric tons of rice to Malawi’s hunger response after climate shocks pushed millions toward food insecurity. Economy Watch: AfDB warns Malawi’s manufacturing jobs keep shrinking and debt distress is forcing reliance on grants, while digital finance stakeholders urge stronger fraud prevention as Malawi’s digital economy grows.