Climate & Water Security: The Caribbean is bracing for a drought-and-heat stretch into 2027 as strengthening El Niño brings less rain and more hot-spell days, with CIMH and UWI warning of growing pressure on water supplies, farming, and public health. Agriculture & Health: Kenya’s pesticide use hit a record high in 2024, driven by heavy reliance on fungicides/bactericides and a large share of highly hazardous pesticides—raising concerns about illegal markets and risks to people and the environment. Media & Politics (France): Reuters reports Bolloré’s CNews has tightened its right-wing editorial line ahead of France’s presidential election, including the removal of conservative pundit Philippe Bilger after Gaza-related criticism and defense of Sarkozy’s conviction. Science & Society (Caribbean context): A reflective piece argues that “knowing” a country’s history isn’t enough—Independence should be judged by who benefits from prosperity, including access to education, health, housing, and assets. Satire/Storytelling: Scott McKay’s The Necessary Men continues with new serialized chapters set in Cuba, blending political intrigue with fiction.