Oil & Gas Deal: SNH and Octavia Energy have completed negotiations for a Production Sharing Contract covering the Bolongo exploration block in the Rio del Rey Basin, paving the way for exploration steps after submission for signature. ICT & Cybersecurity: Cameroon’s 2026 National Competition for the Best ICT Project of the Year wrapped in Yaoundé under a theme on protecting cyberspace from AI misuse, with 631 projects submitted and 20 shortlisted for a bootcamp. Banking & Finance: Afriland First Bank and ICD (IsDB Group) formalised an MoU in Baku to mobilise over 32.7 billion FCFA for private-sector financing and expanded Islamic finance. Education & Skills: UB has started issuing certificates to ICT University graduates after a long-running certification dispute was resolved through government intervention and cooperation between both universities. Agribusiness (Cocoa): Cameroon’s marketed cocoa output fell 19.9% to 247,914 tons in 2025/2026, with exports down and discussions underway on fairer producer compensation. Infrastructure: A new 160-meter Nyong River bridge at Malombo in Yaoundé-et-Kelle was commissioned by China First Highway Engineering Co., improving connectivity for local communities. Shipping & Trade Policy: Cameroon discussed ship-registry reform with the US amid concerns over fraudulent use of its flag, including deregistration of vessels. Digital Payments: Qubic is now live on AEON Pay across millions of merchants, extending token payments through local rails in multiple regions including Africa. Security & Governance: President Biya signed decrees promoting and reshuffling senior military leadership, including new logistics and rapid intervention appointments.