The African financial sector is experiencing significant growth despite facing major challenges. The Africa Financial Industry Summit (AFIS), organized by Jeune Afrique, has become a key event for the industry, gathering over 800 leaders. African financial institutions are emerging on the global stage, but must manage rising public debt, climate challenges, and find new funding sources. Effective regulation is crucial for sustainable growth, as emphasized by Serge Ékué of the West African Development Bank. Discussions at the summit highlighted the high cost of international loans in Sub-Saharan Africa and the potential of asset tokenization to unlock liquidity. Cyber-attacks remain a significant threat, with Alain Kaninda of the Regulatory Authority stressing the need for responsive insurance products and information sharing. AFIS has established itself as a vital platform for addressing the sector's challenges and opportunities.

In Libreville, Gabon's capital, life is gradually returning to normal following a recent coup. The usually busy city center remains calm, but the Mont-Bouet market is bustling with activity as traders resume their businesses. Local trader Tanguy Ntoutoume describes the election period as hectic but feels reassured by General Brice Oligui Nguema's announcement to resume trading. The military has declared that Nguema will be sworn in as the transitional president on Monday, marking a significant turning point for Gabon after nearly 60 years under the same family's rule.

Kinshasa is preparing for Pope Francis's visit, the first papal visit since John Paul II 38 years ago. The visit is significant for the DRC, home to Africa's largest Catholic community. Worshippers expect messages of peace and reconciliation, especially concerning the conflict in Eastern DRC. Preparations include choir rehearsals in multiple languages. The Pope's schedule includes meetings with authorities, victims of violence, displaced persons, clergy, and charity representatives. Bishop Jean-Pierre Kwanbamba hopes the visit will inspire peace and brotherhood among the 45 million Catholics in the DRC.

Wenge Musica, a legendary Congolese soukous band, has reunited after 25 years of separation, marked by a historic concert at the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa. The band, known for popularizing the 'ndombolo' dance, originally split due to internal conflicts between leaders JB Mpiana and Werrason. Their reunion aims to promote unity in the Democratic Republic of Congo amidst economic and security challenges. The concert, held on the country's independence day, attracted 75,000 fans and emphasized the band's enduring cultural significance. Part of the concert's profits will support the families of armed forces in the eastern DRC.

Many individuals in Togo and globally face statelessness, lacking birth certificates and thus access to fundamental rights such as education, healthcare, and employment. Boniface Yepenui's experience highlights the personal impact of statelessness. The UNHCR reports at least 1 million stateless people in West Africa and aims to eradicate statelessness by 2024, though administrative barriers and reluctance to issue identity documents remain significant challenges.

In Togo, street children like Innocent are finding hope and empowerment through a music project led by Togolese singer and guitarist Peter Solo. After experiencing life on the streets himself, Solo trains these children in music, providing them with skills and a sense of purpose. The initiative, supported by Togo Handicap International, aims to raise awareness about the plight of street children and integrate them into society. The project culminated in a performance at a major musical show, highlighting the potential and resilience of these young individuals.

Researchers at the University of Zurich have developed a method to diagnose Parkinson's disease using artificial intelligence and smartphones, marking a significant advancement in medical diagnostics. Additionally, a nursing home in Bordeaux is testing an 'aging suit' to help caregivers understand the effects of aging and improve their care practices. The suit simulates common age-related conditions, including vision loss, hearing impairment, and Parkinson's tremors, by restricting movement and mimicking physical limitations.