SACU Summit Pushes Tech-Driven Integration: South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa urged SACU leaders to deepen regional integration as trade patterns shift and new technologies reshape competitiveness, pointing to the “Re-imagined SACU Agenda” adopted in Eswatini after COVID-19. Youth Skills & STEM Boost: A science hub initiative aims to build youth skills and innovation, while Merck’s Curiosity Cube™ brought hands-on synthetic biology and DNA-focused learning to students in Johannesburg. Internships for Future Talent: Coca-Cola Beverages Africa opened its 2026 internship programme for diploma and degree students, offering a three-month, project-based placement with mentorship. Anti-Corruption Tech Reforms: SADC anti-corruption agencies adopted reforms to strengthen independence of watchdog bodies and accelerate e-procurement to cut discretion and corruption risks. Eswatini Youth Report Flags Crisis: The State of the Youth Report 2026 says youth unemployment sits at 56% and heavy alcohol use is rising, linking both to weakened family support, poverty, and limited opportunities. Agriculture Innovation Marketplace: Eswatini launched the Solutions Marketplace 2026 to back local innovators tackling climate stress, post-harvest losses, and low productivity. LGBT Rights Court Order: Eswatini’s Supreme Court ordered official recognition of an LGBT advocacy group, giving government 60 days to comply. Solar & Energy Investment Claims: Reports say King Mswati granted Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo citizenship and a diplomatic passport tied to a planned 300MW solar project.