Banking & Diaspora Finance: Zenith Bank is spotlighted in London as a part-sponsor of the 15th Voice Achievers Award and Business Summit on Aug 21, underscoring its push to back African talent on the global stage. Security & Regional Cooperation: At the 19th Security Watch Africa Conference in Banjul, Nigeria’s Governor Umo Eno praised President Tinubu’s anti-insurgent efforts and urged stronger Africa-wide cooperation on security and people-centred governance. Air Connectivity: Etihad and Air Peace signed an interline agreement to let travellers book single-ticket journeys between Abu Dhabi and multiple Nigerian and West African cities, including Banjul. Gambia-US Travel Policy: The US State Department plans to shift routine visa services in Banjul into regional hubs from Aug 1, 2026, affecting how applicants schedule and process visas. Agriculture & Water: ROOTS Project handed over the Pacharr irrigation site for rehabilitation, aiming to boost rice productivity and support The Gambia’s rice self-sufficiency push. Creative Industry: NCAC hosted artists without borders to strengthen The Gambia’s creative sector and youth participation. Tech & Agribusiness Innovation: A Gambian AI entrepreneur is developing robotics tools for safer, more efficient fruit handling—aimed at improving agricultural automation. Commonwealth Games Prep: Gambian groups in Glasgow met officials to plan “Gambia Day” and rally support for athletes ahead of Glasgow 2026. Tax Reform Push: Finance Minister Seedy Keita renewed calls for global tax reforms to curb profit shifting that drains African revenues.