World Cup 2026 & Identity: A new wave of African-descended European players is set to headline the expanded 48-team World Cup, but the coverage also flags how national identity debates and online racism have followed Black players for years. AI Education (Maghreb): Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, Libya and Mauritania are pushing AI education and research, with Algeria positioning itself as the regional pacesetter via university-linked AI and cybersecurity clusters aimed at turning research into businesses. AI in Mauritania’s region: Google’s Ask Gemini in Chrome is rolling out across African markets including Mauritania, expanding built-in AI search and understanding features. Investment Management (Nigeria/Mauritania footprint): Assetium Investment Managers says it reached N5bn AUM in six weeks after SEC approval, with offices listed in Nouakchott and Abuja. Energy & Exploration (Gambia): Eni has signed a Petroleum Exploration, Development and Production Licence for offshore Block A1, a fresh attempt to restart Gambia’s stalled upstream ambitions. Renewables Trade (Nigeria): Nigeria exported solar panels worth N85.8bn in Q1 2026, with the US as the top buyer. West Africa Fisheries: Regional action against illegal fishing is intensifying as annual losses are put at over US$2.3bn, with coordinated enforcement and the Dakar Declaration spotlighted. Mauritania/Libya Diplomacy: Libya and Mauritania discussed boosting political and economic cooperation during an official visit, including plans for a joint higher committee.