Oil & Gas Discoveries: QatarEnergy says its Merlin-1X well in Namibia’s Orange Basin (PEL 39) hit light crude and strong reservoir data, the eighth successful well in the licence, while NAMCOR welcomed the find as further proof of Orange Basin potential. Petroleum Testing: ReconAfrica has started production testing at Kavango West 1X, moving the Damara Fold Belt closer to a commerciality call. Mining & Critical Minerals: Andrada Mining reports new high-grade lithium results from Lithium Ridge, while Bezant Resources secured US$7m financing and an offtake deal to push Hope and Gorob copper toward first production later in 2026. Banking & Retail Access: Bank Windhoek opened its Goreangab Mall Digital Banking Hub, bringing services closer to Katutura and surrounding areas. Trade Watch: Namibia’s trade deficit widened to N$4.4bn in April as imports outpaced exports, with petroleum oils and vehicles among the biggest import drivers. Local Governance: Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa warned councils not to expect bailouts if they fail to submit audited statements, collect revenue and improve service delivery. Marine Conservation: Namibia protects just 1.69% of marine territory, far short of the 30% “30 by 30” goal. Road Safety: IPC MP Nelson Kalangula criticised speed humps on the B1 Western Bypass as reactive and harmful to a key economic corridor. Community & Social Policy: Rural women’s groups urged governments to put women smallholder farmers at the centre of food and climate policy; meanwhile, the first gentleman pushed for better education outcomes for boys.