HIV Funding Shock: UNAIDS reports global HIV programme funding fell 25% in 2025, driven largely by US cuts, warning that progress is at risk as millions still lack treatment and prevention/community services face erosion. Regional Health Outcomes: A UNAIDS milestone report highlights Kenya’s near-80% drop in new infections since 2010, while warning the wider response remains fragile without restored solidarity and investment. Eswatini Policy & Governance: Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini defended “disruptive leadership” as essential to delivering the “nkwe” mandate within the Tinkhundla system, as MPs pressed for measurable service-delivery impact. SME Finance Boost: FNB Eswatini increased SME access to funding up to E1.5 million after SME Growth Forums flagged needs around faster merchant devices and broader loan access. Industrial Jobs Push: The E28 million Sigwe Shoe Manufacturing Factory is nearing completion, with expected October 2026 finish and an identified operator to start local footwear production. Development Finance Competition: FINCORP and IDCE are nearly tied in market share, with FSRA data showing a 0.04 percentage-point gap as both expand lending. Cross-Border Banking Talks: Eswatini and Egypt explored closer cooperation on cross-border payments, financial integration and a potential role in PAPSS for local-currency settlements. Mining Licences: Government issued new coal, gold and quarry licences in Q1 to support mineral exploration and infrastructure-related construction materials. Visa Operations Watch: The US will stop routine visa processing at 25 African diplomatic posts from August 1, redirecting applicants to regional hubs—an issue for business travel planning. Corporate Social Support: Select Limited donated school shoes and wheelchairs to the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office, while Turkey (TIKA) provided vocational training equipment for Matsetsa School for the Deaf. Consumer/Transport Risk: Ford recalled some previous-generation Ranger and Everest models exported to eSwatini due to potential transmission fluid pump gear failure, with software updates offered at no cost.