Critical Minerals Watch: Fluorspar is suddenly in the spotlight as a global supply squeeze—linked to China’s shift from major exporter to net importer—pushes demand for the mineral used in uranium conversion chemicals. Climate & Heat Records: Copernicus reports May hit the second-highest recorded global temperatures, with ocean heat staying near record levels and an early, intense European heat wave. Nickel Market Shock: Indonesia’s new nickel mining rules aim to rein in damage, but could also trigger another surge of battery-metal overproduction—this time with Chinese know-how spreading to Africa. Madagascar Disaster Response: Russia transferred tracked construction equipment, mobile power, and water purification units to Madagascar for cyclone recovery, including debris clearing and restoring access roads and bridges. Agroecology Scaling: AERAS says 10,000+ small farmers across Africa and Latin America gained advisory support to adopt agroecological practices. Digital ID Progress: Madagascar reportedly completed 2.6M digital ID enrollments in two months. Forest Policy Gap: A regional webinar says Africa’s forest and biodiversity plans still struggle to turn policy into on-the-ground action, including in Madagascar. AI & Misinformation: A study flags “Uncensored AI” being used to spread conspiracy claims online. Biodiversity & Biosecurity: Australia seized 100,000+ illegal exotic cockroaches, including Madagascar hissing cockroaches, warning pet traders and breeders.