Trade Finance Boost: The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) signed a US$750m framework agreement with Djibouti (2026–2029) to expand trade finance across the Horn, aiming to unlock more strategic cross-border commerce. Digital Identity & Payments: The World Bank backed digital wallets and verifiable credentials as a more user-centric alternative to siloed identity and payment systems—relevant for smoother onboarding and transactions in regional markets. Electricity for Growth: World Bank and AfDB’s Mission 300 said it has connected over 50 million people to electricity across 40 countries, with Mission 300 also pushing regional grid integration and faster electrification—an enabling step for businesses and services. Regional Stability Tech: IGAD and AfDB launched SECURES-IGAD to strengthen early warning and crisis prevention in Djibouti, Sudan, Somalia and South Sudan, linking early alerts to early action. Transport & Mobility: Ethiopia commissioned a fast EV charging hub and plans a wider charging network along the Ethiopia–Djibouti trade corridor, highlighting how power and logistics upgrades can support new mobility demand. Port Competition Watch: Zanzibar unveiled plans for a US$560m free port and logistics zone at Mangapwani to capture transhipment and manufacturing flows—raising the stakes for regional gateways. Security Prepositioning: Germany is sending mine-clearing ships to Djibouti as part of preparations for a possible Strait of Hormuz mission, underscoring Djibouti’s role in regional maritime operations.