Kenya   

Kenya and U.S. Set to Resume Trade Talks to Boost Exports   

Kenya and the United States are set to resume bilateral trade negotiations next week in Washington, aiming to secure a formal market access deal. The talks focus on improving export competitiveness, easing non-tariff barriers, and aligning regulations to strengthen investor confidence. With the U.S. accounting for roughly 10 % of Kenya’s exports, officials hope the agreement will boost trade flows, attract investment, and open new opportunities for Kenyan businesses in agriculture, manufacturing, and services.  

(Source: Reuters)  

Tanzania    

Tanzania Tightens Digital Security: Public Servants Told to Ditch Personal Emails    

Tanzania’s government has issued a directive banning public servants from using personal email accounts for official communications. All government business must now be conducted through official email systems to enhance cybersecurity, protect sensitive data, and prevent information leaks. Authorities said the move is part of a broader modernisation of official procedures aimed at reducing digital vulnerabilities. Non-compliance will attract disciplinary measures, signalling a stricter regulatory environment for civil service operations.  

(Source: Daily News)  

Uganda   

EU Summons Uganda Over Post-Election Crackdown and Internet Blackout   

The European Parliament has summoned Uganda’s envoy over alleged abuses following the January elections, including intimidation, arbitrary arrests, and a nationwide internet shutdown. Lawmakers criticised the vote as “marred by abuses”, and discussions may lead to sanctions or recalibrated cooperation if reforms are not implemented. Civil society groups warn that restrictions on freedom of expression, assembly, and media coverage threaten Uganda’s democratic credibility and could heighten political tensions ahead of future elections.  

(Sources: Pulse Uganda; Reuters)  

Rwanda   

Senate Approves Revised Budget as Central Bank Hikes Lending Rate   

Rwanda’s Senate approved a revised 2025/26 national budget, slightly reducing planned expenditure to emphasise fiscal prudence and efficient resource allocation. At the same time, the National Bank of Rwanda raised its key lending rate by 50 basis points to curb inflation that remains above target. Analysts say these measures reflect Rwanda’s ongoing balancing act between stimulating economic growth and ensuring financial stability, signalling proactive regulatory oversight in the country’s fiscal and monetary policy framework.  

(Sources: The New Times; Reuters) 

Ethiopia   

Ethiopia Revokes Reuters Journalists’ Accreditation Amid AU Summit Tensions   

The Ethiopian Media Authority revoked accreditation for three Reuters journalists, barring them from covering the African Union summit in Addis Ababa. Critics say the move reflects discomfort with investigative reporting on military and security matters. Reuters reaffirmed its commitment to independent journalism, highlighting concerns about press freedom, transparency, and the media’s ability to hold authorities accountable in Ethiopia, particularly amid politically sensitive regional summits and ongoing internal security challenges.  

(Source: Reuters) 

Somalia   

Somalia Steps Up U.S.-Backed Offensive to Reassert Control Amid al-Shabab Threats   

Somalia is intensifying a U.S.-backed military offensive against al-Shabaab, reclaiming key territories as international peacekeeping forces scale down. The government seeks to assert state authority, stabilise governance, and strengthen security across volatile regions. Analysts note that these operations form part of a broader political strategy aimed at consolidating control over administrative and economic zones, enhancing Somalia’s legitimacy, and enabling reconstruction and development in previously insurgent-held areas.  

(Source: AP News)