Maritime Security Talks: Somalia, Ethiopia, Yemen and Djibouti met in Nairobi to boost Red Sea and Gulf of Aden law enforcement, with UNODC, EU, INTERPOL, IMO and IGAD backing information-sharing as piracy, trafficking and shipping disruptions rise. Djibouti Maritime Role: Djibouti Maritime Authority officials warned that wider Middle East tensions can distract patrols and give pirates more room to strike. Ethiopia’s Maritime Plan: Ethiopia proposed a National Maritime Information Centre to protect the corridor as an economic necessity, not just policing. Piracy Update: The IMO said six vessels remain held by pirates/armed groups in the Gulf of Aden, with 90+ seafarers captive after a hijacking. Power & Finance: Ethiopia’s Koysha dam needs an extra €500m to finish, while GERD already supplies 52% of electricity, keeping regional energy and investment themes in focus. Sanctions & Banking: The US moved to cut Banque Misr UAE branches from dollar transactions over Iran links, a reminder of how finance rules can quickly reshape trade flows. Trade & Investment Pressure: US officials say China’s export push is hurting African manufacturers and raising debt risks, as Washington tries to close deals and compete. Djibouti Business Angle: With Djibouti tied to Red Sea logistics and regional corridors, the week’s security and shipping moves directly affect costs, reliability and trade planning.