Mangrove Recovery: Wetlands International launches Mangrove Capital Africa Phase IV in Freetown, aiming to restore coastal wetlands across Senegal, Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone and strengthen a regional mangrove corridor. Climate-Resilient Land Use: Pamoronko residents back SLURC co-design work to shape inclusive land-use reforms that tackle climate risks in informal settlements. Coastal Planning Debate: A public consultation on the proposed Blu Cay marina highlights fears of worsening congestion and parking problems near Potter’s Cay, with vendors pushing for better transport planning. Health & Care Gaps: A Sierra Leone-focused study discusses why pre-eclampsia care is still failing—late diagnosis, shortages of magnesium sulfate, limited monitoring and staffing gaps. Maternal Health Financing: UNFPA says maternal mortality won’t fall without fixing health system weaknesses, inequality and underfunding, pointing to Sierra Leone’s progress as proof of what works. Census Readiness: International monitors observe Sierra Leone’s mock census in Kenema to test tools and field procedures ahead of the December 2026 enumeration. Governance & Local Security: Sierra Leone prepares for the first National Paramount Chiefs Conference in Bo, with land governance, conflict prevention and environmental management on the agenda. Women’s Leadership Push: ECOWAS unveils a regional plan to expand women’s political leadership, building on a declaration adopted in Freetown. Energy Transition Watch: Africa’s gas producers are shifting toward using gas for domestic power and industry alongside LNG exports, shaping the next investment cycle. Visa Operations: The US will stop routine visa processing at 25 African posts from August 1, redirecting applicants to regional hubs, including Freetown.