Middle East Energy Risk: Eni CEO Claudio Descalzi says the Hormuz crisis is pushing oil and gas investment toward Southeast Asia and Latin America, with Africa also flagged as promising as shipping disruption lingers. Red Sea Chokepoint Threat: Reuters reports Iran has asked Yemen’s Houthis to be ready to close Bab al-Mandeb if the US targets Iranian power infrastructure, raising fears of fresh shipping and fuel-price shocks. Africa Power & Industry: UNIDO argues Africa’s industrialisation hinges on reliable, affordable energy and says aggregating industrial demand can pull investment into renewables and local supply chains. Nigeria Gas Push vs Pricing Problems: Nigeria’s gas is touted as the best route out of energy poverty for 140m people, but executives warn flawed domestic gas pricing and payment uncertainty are keeping investors away. Ghana Downstream Focus: Ghana’s energy minister and petroleum regulator outline plans to build a more resilient downstream sector as geopolitical shocks and the energy transition reshape fuel supply. South Africa Grid & Nuclear: TotalEnergies launched a R1.6bn Hydra hybrid solar-plus-500MWh battery project for households, while communities oppose Eskom’s proposed Thyspunt nuclear plant. Climate Shock: A study says human-driven climate change intensified West Africa’s deadly June floods, making extreme rainfall far more likely. Kenya Refinery Backlash: Greenpeace renews calls to halt Dangote’s $17bn Lamu coastal refinery over environmental and cultural risks.