Mobile Money Push: Airtel Money Madagascar and Baobab Bank Madagascar launched an interoperable 24/7 mobile transfer service, letting customers move funds between wallets and bank accounts via the My Baobab app—another step for financial inclusion. Energy Shock Management: Madagascar reimposed a nationwide state of energy emergency, citing Middle East-driven oil market uncertainty and aiming to secure fuel supplies and protect essential services. Mining Update: Total Graphite paused production at the Vatomina mine to complete drilling and optimisation work, targeting a restart of over 1,000 tonnes per month from December, while also advancing downstream plans in Mozambique. Climate & Food Risk: Action Against Hunger warned El Niño could worsen drought in southern Madagascar and raise cyclone risk in the east, threatening crops and food security. Public Safety Crisis: Police recorded 172 disappearances this year (including 91 children), with fears rising in Antananarivo despite increased patrols—highlighting deeper institutional trust gaps. Education & Solar: Thinking Huts’ Honeycomb solar-powered campus in Madagascar is expanding access for children from three villages, as the group prepares its next-generation education-linked business push. Regional Business/Trade Context: Total Graphite’s Mozambique focus and broader energy training efforts underscore how Madagascar’s economy remains tied to regional energy and critical-minerals momentum.