EPRA reduced petrol, diesel, and kerosene prices in Kenya effective March 14, 2024. The cuts follow a stronger shilling and lower global oil costs. Businesses and consumers will benefit from lower transport and energy expenses.
Kenya Airways plans to retrieve a Boeing 777 aircraft from Turkish Airlines to boost its fleet capacity. The move supports the airline's recovery strategy and network expansion plans. Businesses should watch for new route announcements and potential impacts on tourism and corporate travel.
Egypt's cabinet approved executive regulations for state land disposal and expanded the National AI Council's mandate to include quantum computing. These measures aim to unlock state assets and position Egypt as a regional technology hub. Implementation begins immediately with specific timelines and budget allocations.
United Capital Plc has appointed four independent experts to the investment committee of its United Capital Infrastructure Fund (UCIF). This move aims to enhance the fund's capabilities in Nigeria's infrastructure sector, which faces significant financing gaps. The repositioning could mobilize private capital for critical projects in energy, transportation, and digital infrastructure.
Egyptian and Turkish foreign ministers discussed coordination on Gaza, Sudan, and Somalia crises in a July 15 phone call. Their diplomatic engagement aims to stabilize conflicts that threaten regional business interests, particularly in tourism, shipping, and construction. Businesses should monitor policy coordination and its impact on trade routes, investment incentives, and security costs.
Nigeria's Tertiary Education Trust Fund will allocate N6.452 billion to public universities and colleges in 2026. This funding supports infrastructure projects and academic programs across the tertiary education sector. The allocation follows established TETFund intervention cycles and will generate business opportunities in construction and educational services.
Nigeria launched a gold refinery in Lagos and announced a $600 million lithium plant. These projects aim to add value to raw minerals and boost economic diversification. The government targets increasing mining's GDP contribution from 0.3% to 3% by 2027.
Ghana Airports Company Limited CEO Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare announced plans to engage domestic airlines about lowering flight prices. High domestic airfares have limited business mobility and tourism growth across Ghana. The initiative could reduce travel costs for companies operating in multiple regions.
Ukraine's electric vehicle registrations more than doubled in 2025, with 107,470 passenger cars recorded. Kenyan businesses are watching this surge as they develop their own EV market, which currently has about 1,350 vehicles. Kenya aims for 5% EV penetration by 2030 through government incentives and private investment.
The Bank of Ghana has announced that commercial banks must demonstrate sustained compliance with foreign exchange regulations to renew their trading licenses. This policy links license renewals directly to regulatory adherence and may include sanctions for non-compliance under existing laws. The move aims to strengthen oversight in Ghana's forex market amid economic challenges.
Indonesia plans to implement a nationwide single rice price policy in 2026, announced by Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan. This policy could influence global rice trade dynamics, affecting Nigeria's $1.2 billion annual rice imports and local market stability. Nigerian businesses should monitor implementation timelines and prepare for potential supply chain adjustments.
US President Donald Trump imposed a 25% tariff on goods from countries trading with Iran, directly impacting Nigeria due to its energy and trade relationships with Tehran. Nigerian exports to the United States worth $3.2 billion face immediate risk, potentially affecting 120,000 jobs and reducing economic growth. Businesses must quickly adjust supply chains and explore alternative markets while the government weighs diplomatic and economic consequences.
Meska AI will host Meska Spark Vol.2 on January 16, 2026, to support Egyptian AI startups for global markets. The event addresses growth opportunities in Egypt's expanding tech sector while navigating regulatory and funding challenges. This initiative aligns with government efforts to position Egypt as a regional AI leader.
Nigeria's new performance-based tax incentives under the Nigeria Tax Act 2025 offer manufacturers reduced rates and accelerated depreciation for meeting production targets. The reforms aim to boost sector growth by 3-5% annually and create 200,000 jobs by 2028, with digital filing mandatory from July 2026. Businesses must watch FIRS implementation, strict performance metrics, and regional competition to maximize benefits.
Kenya's National Treasury is selling a 15% stake in Safaricom to Vodacom Group for Sh244.5 billion ($1.6 billion), which would give Vodacom 55% ownership. The deal raises data sovereignty concerns as Safaricom handles sensitive financial and personal data for millions of Kenyans through services like M-Pesa. Regulatory approvals from the Communications Authority of Kenya and Competition Authority of Kenya are required, with the transaction expected to face a 6-9 month review process.
Ghana has paid $1.47 billion to settle energy sector debts, restoring World Bank guarantees. This move stabilizes power supply and improves fiscal outlook. Businesses should monitor tariff reviews and new project financing.
Egypt's Labour Ministry has approved EGP 3.135 million to support 443 irregular workers across 23 governorates. The funds provide social, healthcare, and accident compensation grants for workers in informal employment situations. This targeted support addresses gaps in social protection while Egypt implements broader economic reforms.
The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council closed an unregistered dental clinic in Nairobi following patient harm reports. This action reflects broader regulatory enforcement against illegal medical facilities in Kenya. The closure highlights patient safety risks and market implications for healthcare providers.
The Tanzanian government praised the Tanzania Ports Authority for improving port efficiency and service quality. These enhancements support economic growth and regional trade competitiveness. Businesses should watch electronic system deployments and tariff structures that affect import/export operations.
Eterna Plc launched a N21.5 billion rights issue, offering 978 million shares at ₦22.00 each to reduce debt and fund expansion. This move addresses the company's N45.8 billion debt and 2023 loss, aiming to strengthen its position in Nigeria's competitive downstream energy sector. Investors should monitor subscription levels and post-issue financial performance.
Egypt's birth rate has declined steadily since 2018, with the trend expected to continue through 2025. This demographic shift affects consumer markets, healthcare systems, and educational planning while cesarean section rates remain high. Businesses must adapt to changing family sizes and evolving consumer needs.
Egypt has extended the deadline for floating restaurant legalization to December 2026. This gives owners more time to meet safety and regulatory requirements while supporting tourism recovery. The move balances enforcement with practical business needs.
Egypt's Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchouk announced increased government spending on industry, exports and human development. The move signals a shift toward growth-focused policies while maintaining fiscal discipline. Businesses should monitor specific budget allocations and regulatory changes in coming months.
SSNIT has raised monthly pensions by 10% for all 261,920 pensioners effective January 2026. The increase outpaces Ghana's 9.8% inflation rate and adds approximately 150 million Ghana cedis annually to retiree incomes. This marks the third consecutive year of pension growth, supported by SSNIT's strong investment returns and stable contribution collections.
Ghana Police Service arrested two more suspects in the 2024 Adabraka gold shop robbery, bringing the total to four. The arrests boost security confidence in Ghana's critical gold trading sector, which generated $6.6 billion in exports in 2022. Businesses should monitor police updates and regulatory changes affecting operations and costs.
Busha, a licensed Nigerian cryptocurrency exchange, has transformed into a full-service digital money app with a brand refresh and expanded financial services. The platform now offers savings products, payments, and banking features alongside crypto trading, targeting Nigeria's growing fintech market. This strategic shift addresses financial inclusion needs while navigating regulatory requirements.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security will increase premium processing fees for immigration applications by 5.6% starting March 1. This affects Nigerian business travelers who rely on expedited visa processing for time-sensitive trips. Companies should budget for higher costs and consider their processing options.
Zanzibar has reduced fuel prices for January, cutting costs for petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel. The Zanzibar Utilities Regulatory Authority announced the changes, which took effect yesterday. Lower fuel prices will benefit businesses across tourism, transportation, and agriculture sectors.
The Central Bank of Nigeria projects petrol prices will reach N950 per litre by 2026, representing a 28% increase from current retail levels. This forecast has significant implications for inflation, business costs, and consumer spending across Africa's largest economy. Companies should prepare for higher operational expenses while monitoring market developments and policy responses.
Former Labour Party candidate Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed's criticism of ADC's political weakness highlights business risks. Companies like Dangote and MTN Nigeria face uncertainty from weak opposition. The article provides specific costs, regulatory requirements, and actionable steps for political risk management ahead of 2027 elections.
Weight loss medications are changing Kenyan consumer food preferences, driving demand for smaller portions and healthier options. Greggs and other food retailers are adapting their products and strategies in response. This shift has financial implications and requires businesses to monitor regulatory and market trends closely.
Former US President Donald Trump cancelled planned military strikes against Venezuela after the government released political prisoners. This decision affects global oil markets that Nigeria depends on for 90% of its foreign exchange earnings. Nigerian businesses should monitor diplomatic talks, oil prices, and investment patterns in the energy sector.
Nigeria's tax authority has clarified that bank account inflows are not automatically taxable, addressing widespread confusion. Only actual income constitutes taxable revenue under current laws. This clarification reduces compliance burdens and could improve Nigeria's business environment.
MTN Nigeria's Senior Manager for Financial Operations purchased N40.9 million worth of company shares as the stock traded above N500. Executive share purchases often signal confidence in a company's future prospects. Investors should watch for similar purchases by other executives and monitor MTN Nigeria's ongoing regulatory and operational challenges.
Nigeria's stock market reached a historic N100 trillion valuation this week. President Bola Tinubu credited his administration's economic reforms for the milestone. The rally reflects growing investor confidence despite ongoing challenges.
COMESA has warned that specific batches of Nestlé's SMA infant formula in Kenya may contain cereulide toxin. The alert raises immediate health concerns for infants and could impact Nestlé's market position. Regulatory investigations and potential recalls are expected to follow.
Ghana's cedi appreciated by 15% against the US dollar in early 2025, reversing previous depreciation. The Bank of Ghana's monetary policy decisions drove this turnaround through interest rate hikes and liquidity management. Currency stability supports Ghana's economic recovery and IMF program implementation.
FERMA launched a road maintenance scheme in Katsina targeting 50km of federal roads. The ₦2.5 billion program includes youth training for 500 participants. Improved infrastructure could boost regional trade and reduce transport costs.
Flutterwave has acquired open-banking startup Mono to boost profitability and prepare for an IPO. The deal will help Flutterwave reduce costs and launch new services, with an IPO potentially coming in 2025-2026. This move signals consolidation in Nigeria's fintech sector and could influence future tech listings.
Zanzibar Second Vice-President Hemed Suleiman Abdulla inaugurated a modern fish market in Mbuyuni, South Pemba. The facility is expected to create 150 direct jobs and stimulate business activity across Mkoani District. This investment addresses infrastructure gaps in the region's fishing sector and supports Tanzania's Blue Economy Strategy.