Gene-editing training in Botswana links to global biotech: Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) signed a five-year deal with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Health to train UAE scientists in gene therapy development, building on CHOP’s earlier work with Botswana on clinical care and research. Blood safety reforms under pressure: A WHO assessment warns Botswana’s National Blood Transfusion Service faces fragmented coordination, ageing equipment, weak information systems and recurring shortages of lab supplies, urging urgent reforms to protect safe, reliable blood access. Diamond tech and big finds in Botswana: Lucara Diamond Corp recovered a 1,305.4-carat rough diamond at the Karowe mine using Mega Diamond Recovery X-ray Transmission tech, adding to Botswana’s streak of record-breaking stones. Invasive species threat to Botswana’s waters: Researchers warn Australia’s redclaw crayfish could reach the Okavango Delta within about 10 years, threatening fisheries, food security and fragile ecosystems. Digital TV expansion with local reach: eMedia launched Openview Stream, an ad-supported FAST streaming platform, rolling out first in Kenya, Ghana, Rwanda, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia and Mauritius. Gaborone retail food-safety case: Court documents show Gaborone City Council fined Spar Broadhurst after a customer alleged food poisoning linked to expired Spar-branded mabele mageu. Regional trade connectivity: Namibia and Botswana reaffirmed plans to strengthen trade via the Walvis Bay port, the Botswana Dry Port and the Trans-Kalahari Corridor. Gaborone Book Festival returns: The Gaborone Book Festival (20–22 August) is back after a three-year break, adding a children’s writing workshop and an environment-focused programme.