Hydropower Deal: Madagascar signed an MoU with CGHV to develop the Volobe Amont hydroelectric plant on the Ivondro River in Atsinanana, targeting over 120 MW; 60 MW would supply Toamasina port and 60 MW the Antananarivo grid, with EU/EIB/World Bank partners and €212m pledged, though financing is still pending. Mining Accountability: More than 6,500 people in Madagascar filed a London High Court claim against Rio Tinto’s QIT Madagascar Minerals, alleging acidic wastewater discharged into local waterways exposed communities—over 2,000 children—to dangerous lead and uranium levels. Beverage Packaging Expansion: Guala Closures completed its acquisition of Metal Crowns across Kenya, Tanzania and Burundi for about Kes 10.6bn (US$81.7m), expanding its East Africa beverage closure footprint, including supply links to Madagascar. Climate Risk for Industry: A South-West Indian Ocean outlook warns Madagascar and neighbors to prepare for multiple hazards tied to El Niño—drought and water stress in the south, flooding and landslides in wetter areas—impacting agriculture, water, health and fisheries. Public Health Pressure: WHO reported cholera deaths rose 30% in 2025 to 7,870, with Africa carrying the heaviest burden and many deaths occurring outside health facilities.