Malaria & urban risk: A new threat is spreading across the Horn: the invasive Anopheles stephensi mosquito, which breeds in cities, bites in daytime, and is resistant to many insecticides—pushing malaria toward year-round outbreaks in places including Somalia. Food security & health: The World Food Programme warns a strong El Niño could drive nearly 49 million more people into acute hunger by end-2027, raising the odds of malnutrition and related illness in vulnerable regions. Somalia security & health services: AUSSOM forces carried out free medical outreach in Dhobley and Kismayo, offering consultations, treatment, and essential medicines for women, children, and the elderly. AUSSOM operations: Defence chiefs from AUSSOM troop-contributing countries approved a plan to accelerate offensives against al-Shabaab, with faster intelligence sharing and tighter coordination—though funding is uncertain after Dec 31. Border tensions: Reports of Somali leaders facing harsh treatment at Kenya’s JKIA highlight how frontline officials can damage Kenya’s “soft power,” affecting trust around refugees and travellers. Injuries near the border: In Mandera, a suspected roadside IED injured at least six people, with one in critical condition, underscoring ongoing health risks from insecurity. Somaliland health policy: Somaliland President Cirro urged partners to invest rather than rely on aid and discussed security and development priorities, including expanded kidney care and free dialysis services.