Women’s Health Research: Benin’s first International Congress on African Women’s Health wrapped up in Cotonou, with calls for far more funding for women-focused research and clinical trials that better include African women. AI Governance: Six Francophone West African countries (including Benin) adopted shared ethical AI guidelines to guide national policies on safe, inclusive systems and stronger data protection. Marine Pollution Monitoring: Scientists from 21 African countries met in Accra to harmonize microplastics monitoring protocols for coastal ecosystems, including Benin, aiming for comparable data and better environmental policy. Community Health Capacity: Leeds Beckett University is exploring a partnership with Edo’s Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development and UBTH to build community mental health nursing and close service gaps. Health System Planning: Edo State disseminated its 2026 Annual Operational Plan to strengthen health programme implementation, coordination, and resource use. Drug Control (Edo): NDLEA arrested 42 suspected drug traffickers and seized 4,905.36kg of illicit drugs in June, including cannabis and psychotropic substances. Education & Health Training: Wellspring University, Benin City, got NUC approval for five new health programmes (including MBBS) starting 2026/2027. Local Health Infrastructure: Residents of Igbokofi (Ogun) urged local leaders to equip a newly built primary healthcare centre so it can finally start serving the community.