ECOWAS Summit in Sierra Leone: President Julius Maada Bio and First Lady Fatima Bio arrived in Lungi for the 69th ECOWAS summit, where leaders are set to debate peace and security, economic integration, democratic governance, and sustainable development—key decisions that could shape West Africa’s next policy steps. ECOWAS Reform Pressure: At the opening of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers meeting in Freetown, ministers warned the bloc is at a crossroads and must deliver practical benefits that restore citizens’ confidence. Protected Areas Check: Sierra Leone’s NPAA began a five-day IMET assessment workshop for five protected areas, including Gola Rainforest and Tiwai Island, to review management effectiveness and strengthen biodiversity conservation. Coastline Waste, Sports Tourism: The government unveiled a Community Beach Sports Tourism Initiative aimed at cleaner, healthier beaches by linking beach football and volleyball with environmental stewardship. Food Security Boost: Sierra Leone and Korea signed a $5.6m rice agreement to modernise production in Kambia, including irrigation rehabilitation, seed processing, machinery, and farmer training. Heat-Health Focus: Freetown is training frontline health workers to tackle growing heat-health risks as extreme heat becomes a bigger public challenge. Biodiversity and Land Use: Sierra Leone’s ratification of the African Court protocol drew praise from CHRDI as a step toward stronger accountability for rights and protections.