Venezuela Corruption Case: Alex Saab, described by U.S. prosecutors as Nicolás Maduro’s “bagman,” pleaded guilty in a Miami federal court to money laundering tied to bribes and fraud around Venezuela’s CLAP food-and-medicine program, agreeing to forfeit $195m and cooperate with further investigations; he faces up to 20 years, with sentencing set for later. Diplomacy Appointments: Vietnam’s President To Lam handed over ambassadorial appointment decisions, including a new Vietnamese ambassador to Cabo Verde among other postings. Aviation & Connectivity: Togo’s Asky Airlines outlined a five-year growth plan targeting about 30 aircraft and 40 destinations, with Cabo Verde in its current network and ambitions for intercontinental routes. Digital Policy in Africa: TICON Africa Conference (23-25 Sept, Zambia) will focus on AI rollout, cybersecurity, data governance, digital identity and skills to turn ICT strength into economic impact. Cruise Infrastructure Shift: Seatrade Cruise Med panelists said Mediterranean ports will be judged more by value retention, infrastructure flexibility and community impact than passenger counts, with many terminals planning upgrades. Health & Care Costs: WHO says dementia is rising in Africa, affecting about 1.9m people and costing families and societies about $15.6bn annually, with few countries having national dementia plans.