Chief Justice tributes: South Africa’s Chief Justice Martha Koome condoled Eswatini after the death of CJ Bheki Maphalala, praising his leadership and regional judicial cooperation through the SEACJF. Local Governance & justice: Eswatini’s PM Russell Dlamini urged the public to respect the Maphalala family’s privacy amid insensitive online comments, calling his passing the end of a key era for the judiciary. Regional diplomacy: The PM met SADC officials as Eswatini prepares to assume chairship of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, covering priorities across politics, defence, peace and security. Football (CAF): Scottland FC advanced after a goalless draw with Nsingizini Hotspurs, winning 1-0 on aggregate, setting up a second-round tie against Atlético Petróleos de Luanda. Health & environment: The Eswatini Environment Authority says illegal mining is polluting the Phophonyane River with mercury, raising serious risks for communities relying on the water. Sports (Eswatini on global stage): Eswatini’s Letticia Viana earned five VAR appointments at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland. STEM youth: ICT rewarded top performers at the 2026 National Schools STEM Expo with tablets, spotlighting system development, website development and problem-solving winners. Business & finance: FNB Eswatini reported a 3% dip in profit before tax to E335.7m despite income growth, citing higher impairment charges and operating costs. Culture: Umhlanga continues with maidens’ appreciation at Mbangweni, as the ceremony moves into its final stages.