UK Student Visa Rules: The UK updated student and child student visa guidance, keeping strict proof-of-funds for most African applicants but exempting only Botswana, Mauritius and Tunisia from submitting financial evidence upfront (UKVI can still request it later). Mauritius-India Deal: Mauritius is set to receive support under India’s Exim Bank line of credit (INR 4,100 crore / about $426m) for priority developmental projects as part of India’s wider $680m special economic package. Mauritius Economy Under Pressure: Economist Sanjay Matadeen argues Mauritius is at a turning point—ageing, fiscal strain, labour shortages and fast tech change demand deeper structural reforms. Finance & Markets: VCG Markets secured a Seychelles licence and already holds authorisation in Mauritius, signalling expansion across emerging markets; meanwhile, Zee Entertainment’s proposed warrant issue faces proxy firm disagreement. Trade & Growth: India-Africa trade topped $100bn as leaders push stronger investment links at the India Africa Entrepreneurship Forum in Cape Town. Maritime Security: Russia raised concerns over piracy and terrorist activity in the Gulf of Aden and Mozambique Channel at a Contact Group meeting in Port Louis. Environment: A coral reef restoration project in Mauritius, Seychelles and Rodrigues is rebuilding damaged reefs with UNDP and the Adaptation Fund, putting coastal communities at the centre.