Border & Aviation Security: U.S. Customs at Chicago O’Hare seized a traveller’s bag carrying over 2lbs of dead “African mice” for human consumption and 22lbs of beef, citing zoonotic and livestock-disease risks. Tourism & Jobs: WTTC says Malawi’s travel and tourism contribution rose 23.3% from 2019 to 2025 to reach K1.6 trillion, supporting 726,700 jobs, but foreign visitor numbers remain low. Community Conservation: Tourism Minister Simon Itaye urged investment in community-led natural resource management, warning against top-down approaches that sideline local institutions. Lake Malawi Under Pressure: Sand mining along Lake Malawi’s shoreline is accelerating, raising fears for UNESCO-listed biodiversity and the tourism appeal of the lake. Festival Update: Lake of Stars Malawi Arts Festival has been pushed to 2027, with organisers blaming rising costs and funding gaps; ticket holders are promised full refunds. Roads for Travel: Nsipe–Liwonde Road rehabilitation is progressing, with 30km cleared, 20km sub-base done, 7km asphalt laid, and 41 culverts completed. Human Stories: Two South African girls (9 and 15) were repatriated after an alleged trafficking ordeal in Malawi, with authorities citing cooperation between Malawi and South Africa. Sports & Travel Demand: Simba SC and Mighty Wanderers set for a CAF Champions League first-leg in Lilongwe, while CAF Champions League prelims kick off this weekend.