World Bank Infrastructure Push: South Africa secured an estimated R25bn development policy loan to accelerate reforms in electricity, freight and logistics, and water & sanitation, aiming to unlock investment and jobs. Municipal Engineering Spotlight: South Africa’s municipal engineering work drew global recognition at the IFME World Congress in Finland, with Tecroveer winning an IFME Gold Award for emergency water treatment in Hammanskraal. EV Battery Value Chains: A GEF-8 UNIDO-backed initiative will strengthen South Africa’s electric vehicle battery testing, certification, skills, recycling and second-life applications. Port & Logistics Reform: Transnet has started a process to appoint a private partner for a 25-year concession to redevelop and operate the Port of Cape Town’s multipurpose terminal. Defence Funding Debate: Defence Minister Bantu Holomisa urged public-private partnerships and new funding models to tackle SANDF infrastructure, housing and modernisation pressures. Energy Cost Relief Angle: A report argues Gauteng municipalities could cut electricity costs by scaling rooftop solar and using leased battery storage to capture excess generation. Taxi Licensing Flashpoint: Gauteng taxi operators face licence delays, with Santaco warning of impound risks and service disruption. Illegal Mining Pressure: ATM called for Parliament to investigate whether Operation Vala Umgodi is working after two SANDF deaths, as calls for accountability grow. Cybersecurity Warning: Sophos says 79% of ransomware attacks start with compromised identities, with phishing and malicious emails leading initial access.