International Storytelling: Morocco’s 23rd International Storytelling Festival in Rabat spotlighted oral traditions and the idea of “homeland,” with Mauritanian storyteller Abdellah Mohammed Bilal sharing tales of building a “safe country” and other performers using storytelling for education and identity. Migration Tragedy off Mauritania: The UN and IOM report at least 144 refugees and migrants dead or missing after a boat left The Gambia for Spain’s Canary Islands, drifting for 25 days; Mauritanian coast guards rescued 38 survivors near Nouadhibou and recovered one body, including two children who lost their families. Regional Energy Integration: ECOWAS signed an intergovernmental agreement backing the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline, a cross-border project expected to carry major volumes of gas across West Africa and connect toward Morocco and Europe—an economic integration push that also touches Mauritania’s future role. Culture & Music Spotlight: Mauritanian singer Noura Mint Seymali spoke about bringing desert funk and griot-rooted music to wider audiences as she returns to the UK for performances and festival appearances. Diplomacy & Education Links: Germany’s foreign minister Johann Wadephul wrapped up talks in Nigeria after a stop in Mauritania, emphasizing security, migration, and deeper educational and cultural exchanges, including support for institutions like the Goethe-Institut in Lagos.