Kenya 

Auditor-General Flags PCF Over KSh1.36B Collected Outside eCitizen 

Kenya’s Auditor-General has flagged the Policyholders Compensation Fund for collecting more than KSh1.36 billion in levies and penalties outside the government’s mandatory eCitizen platform, contrary to Treasury directives issued in 2024. The audit also raised concerns over unapproved staff allowances, weak imprest controls, and the absence of a clear framework for statutory management fees. 

Despite the governance concerns, the fund recorded strong financial growth, with assets rising to KSh26.8 billion and revenues increasing significantly during the review period. 

(Source: Daily Nation) 

Uganda 

Uganda Opens Regulatory Sandbox to Attract Fintech Innovation 

Uganda is expanding efforts to attract fintech founders through a regulatory sandbox introduced by the Capital Markets Authority (CMA). The framework allows startups to test innovative financial products in a controlled environment under regulatory supervision before a full market rollout. Officials say the initiative is intended to bridge the gap between innovation and commercialization while supporting investor protection and market stability. 

The sandbox aligns with Uganda’s long-term economic strategy to grow GDP and deepen digital financial inclusion. Regulators believe it will encourage technology-driven investment, strengthen capital markets, and help local fintech firms scale sustainably within East Africa’s evolving digital economy. 

(Source: Monitor) 

Tanzania 

Tanzania Banks on Private Sector to Deliver Vision 2050 

Tanzania’s government has reaffirmed the private sector’s central role in achieving the goals of the National Development Vision 2050, emphasizing public-private partnerships as key drivers of economic transformation. Officials said implementation of the vision will begin through the Fourth Development Plan in June 2026, with the private sector expected to contribute nearly 70 per cent of financing and execution. 

The government says stronger collaboration with investors will support infrastructure development, industrial growth, job creation, and improved public services. Authorities also highlighted reforms aimed at improving accountability, investment coordination, and the overall business environment to accelerate long-term national development. 

(Source: Daily News) 

Rwanda 

United Capital Secures Licence to Expand Operations in Rwanda 

The Capital Market Authority (CMA) has granted a licence to United Capital Financial Services Rwanda Ltd, allowing the pan-African investment banking group to operate in Rwanda. The firm, part of the Nigerian-led United Capital Plc, will provide services including corporate finance, capital markets advisory, structured finance, and investment solutions. 

Officials said the entry reflects confidence in Rwanda’s regulatory framework, governance standards, and investment climate, which continue to attract regional and global financial institutions. The company is also expected to deepen the country’s capital markets by expanding access to sophisticated financial services for businesses and investors. 

Rwandan regulators noted that the move aligns with broader efforts to position Kigali as a regional financial hub for East and Central Africa, supporting long-term economic growth and cross-border investment flows. 

(Source: New Times) 

Ethiopia 

Ethiopia Introduces Fintech Regulatory Sandbox to Boost Innovation 

Ethiopia’s financial regulators have introduced a regulatory sandbox framework aimed at allowing fintech companies to test new financial products in a controlled environment before full market approval. The initiative is designed to encourage innovation while maintaining regulatory oversight and protecting consumers. 

The sandbox will enable startups and financial institutions to experiment with digital payment solutions, lending platforms, and other technology-driven services under supervision, helping to reduce regulatory uncertainty that has historically slowed fintech development. It is part of broader reforms to modernise Ethiopia’s financial sector and support financial inclusion through digital tools. 

Authorities say the framework is intended to bridge the gap between innovation and regulation, ensuring that promising technologies can reach the market faster while minimizing systemic risk. The move also aligns with Ethiopia’s wider digital transformation agenda and efforts to expand access to formal financial services across the country. 

(Source: The Reporter) 

Sudan 

Sudan Moves to Revive Qatari Mining Investment 

Sudan’s Ministry of Minerals has announced plans to facilitate the return of Qatari mining companies as part of efforts to revive foreign investment in the sector. Officials said the government is working to resolve operational challenges and improve the investment climate, with a particular focus on strengthening ties with Qatar, described as a “strategic partner.” 

The discussions involved Qatar’s ambassador and Qatar Mining officials, who signalled readiness to resume operations and expand activities, including copper and small-scale mining projects. Sudanese authorities emphasized a shift toward organized mining to improve efficiency and output. 

Qatari investments in Sudan, estimated at up to $2 billion across multiple sectors, reflect continued foreign interest despite ongoing national challenges, with other international firms also maintaining operations in the country. 

(Source: Sudan Tribune) 

Somalia 

China’s Zero-Tariff Policy Opens New Opportunities for Somalia 

China’s decision to extend zero tariffs to all African countries with diplomatic ties, effective May 1, 2026, presents major opportunities for Somalia’s economy. The policy removes customs duties on all imported products, giving Somali exports such as livestock, seafood, bananas, and cashews easier access to the Chinese market. 

The initiative is expected to lower export costs, improve competitiveness, and stimulate growth in Somalia’s agriculture and fisheries sectors. Analysts say the move could also attract investment, encourage product quality improvements, and strengthen Somalia’s role in regional trade. 

(Source: SONNA)