Madagascar–Russia Cultural Diplomacy: Prime Minister Mamitiana Rajaonarison attended a concert by the Russian Black Sea Fleet Song and Dance Ensemble at Mahamasina Palace in Antananarivo, praising performances including a Malagasy-language song and pointing to future cooperation such as Russian medical kits for remote areas. Heritage & Climate Action: ICCROM and ALIPH launched ASILI, a 30-month heritage-for-climate initiative across four African sites, backing community-led action to cut disaster risks and strengthen social cohesion. Electricity Access Gap: World Bank-backed Mission 300 progress shows major gains for some countries, but nearly 600 million Africans still lack electricity, with eight countries yet to record a single new connection. Water Safety Concern: A new global look at safely managed drinking water highlights how lead testing and monitoring often lag behind investment—clean-water access remains out of reach for billions. Biodiversity Spotlight: Fota Wildlife Park announced the birth of two critically endangered black-and-white ruffed lemur babies, calling on the public to help name them. Independence-Day Performances: The Black Sea Fleet ensemble also featured in Madagascar’s Independence Day celebrations, drawing strong audience applause.