Oil & Gas Deal: Galp Energia signed a tentative exploration MoU for offshore Equatorial Guinea blocks EG-02, EG-09 and H, with studies ahead of a possible production sharing contract as the country prepares a licensing round. Upstream Operations: VAALCO Energy said the Baobab field on CI-40 (offshore Côte d’Ivoire) restarted after a successful FPSO refurbishment, with production resuming from four wells and more expected online soon—an update that matters for regional investor sentiment. Energy Investment Pipeline: Europa Oil & Gas’ Antler Global farm-out covering EG-08 in Equatorial Guinea cleared Equatorial Guinea’s Mining & Hydrocarbons approval, but still needs China’s ODI nod; Barracuda-1 drilling is now targeted for early 2027. Regional Finance Oversight: Banking regulators met in Yaoundé for CABS discussions on strengthening prudential cooperation and financial stability amid digital finance and new instruments—relevant for Equatorial Guinea’s banking environment. Human Rights & Migration: Rights groups filed a complaint with the African Commission over U.S. deportations of 14 people to Equatorial Guinea, alleging violations and seeking action to halt further removals. Labour Mobility Watch: Kuwait restricted domestic worker recruitment to 10 approved countries and banned 27 others, including Kenya and Nigeria—another reminder of how cross-border labour rules can quickly reshape regional flows.