Women’s Health Research: Benin’s first International Congress on African Women’s Health wrapped up in Cotonou, with calls for more funding for women-focused research and better inclusion of African women in clinical trials. AI Governance for Health & Safety: Six Francophone West African countries, including Benin, adopted shared guidelines for ethical, inclusive AI governance—aimed at protecting rights and shaping policies that fit local realities. Local Health Delivery in Benin: Edo State held a 2026 Annual Operational Plan dissemination meeting to strengthen health programme implementation, coordination, and resource use, with support from partners like WHO and USAID. Training More Health Workers: Wellspring University in Benin City received NUC approval for five new health programmes (MBBS, Anatomy, Physiology, Health Information Management, and Community Health Science) starting 2026/2027. Drug Control in Edo: NDLEA arrested 42 suspected drug traffickers and seized 4,905.36kg of illicit drugs in June, including large quantities of cannabis and psychotropic substances. Community Care in Edo: NYSC provided free medical services to residents in Aduwawa, including screenings for hypertension, eye care, health education, and referrals. Road Safety (Helmet Use): Ghana will host Africa’s third Safe African Helmet Initiative summit in August, highlighting motorcycle-related road deaths and the push for stronger helmet enforcement. Health Access & Infrastructure: Ogun community residents urged Yewa North LG to equip a newly built primary healthcare centre after delays, following earlier reporting tied to preventable deaths. Mental Health Support: Edo State reunited a 53-year-old deported man with his family after he was found in severe mental distress, and he was referred for specialist psychiatric care. Marine Pollution Monitoring: Scientists from 21 African countries met in Accra to harmonise microplastics monitoring protocols for coastal ecosystems, supporting evidence-based environmental health policies.