Electricity & regional trade: The World Bank says its West Africa Regional Power Integration and Electricity Access Programme has expanded electricity access to over three million people, built 4,000+ km of transmission lines linking 15 countries, and is preparing a regional electricity market to cut costs and improve reliability. Water & sanitation delivery: Sierra Leone’s water utility SALWACO is stepping up partnerships after talks with Catholic Relief Services to implement its 2026–2030 plan, aiming for stronger services, better revenue, and wider SDG 6 progress. Water sector capacity-building: SALWACO’s reforms focus on infrastructure expansion, improved service delivery, and institutional strengthening, with external support needed for key interventions. Critical minerals push: Sierra Leone’s Mines Minister says the country is exploring cooperation with Russia on rare earth minerals after a 2024 MoU, including training and geological data work. Climate justice in court: A landmark case at the African Court seeks guidance on states’ duties to protect people from the climate crisis and move away from harmful economies. Agriculture resilience: Sierra Leone’s agriculture ministry and UN partners are advancing agricultural insurance policy work to help farmers manage production risks. Maternal health upgrade: A rehabilitated maternity ward at Moyamba Government Hospital has been commissioned, boosting maternal and newborn care. Cocoa & forests: World Bank-backed carbon finance credits in Ghana’s cocoa forest landscape highlight forest restoration and emissions cuts, with support planned beyond 2027. Sports governance: SLFA and FIFA begin a three-day review of Sierra Leone’s amateur football structures to guide future grassroots support. Cultural tourism: The Ministry of Tourism announces the return of the One Nation Reggae Festival (Nov 25–30, 2026), with a focus on sustainable tourism and youth empowerment.