Kenya

Looted, Shaken: City Traders Reel from Protest Mayhem

Businesses across Nairobi’s CBD remained shut following violent protests that quickly spiralled into chaos and looting. Shops were vandalised, windows smashed, and goods stolen, leaving many traders counting heavy losses. Among the worst hit was Gatecom IT Solutions on Moi Avenue, where over 30 laptops were looted in broad daylight. Police arrived late, recovering only a few items and arresting one suspect. The violence has left many business owners shaken, with some still recovering from past protests. The cumulative toll on livelihoods, infrastructure, and daily income has been devastating. Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja condemned the violence, blaming hired goons and warning that criminal acts disguised as protests will not be tolerated.

(Daily Nation) 

Tanzania

EWURA Warns Fuel Stations Over Inflated Pump Prices

The Energy and Water Regulatory Authority (EWURA) has issued a stern warning to fuel stations selling petroleum at prices higher than the official ceiling set by the Authority. EWURA is urging the public to report such malpractice through the toll-free numbers provided. Stations found to be in breach of the regulations will face serious consequences, including the revocation of their operating licenses.

(Daily News)

Uganda

Inside Uganda’s Speed-Limit Regulation U-turn

The government’s recent rollout of the “EPS Auto” speed limit regulations has highlighted the conflicting interests among the Ministry of Works and Transport, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, road safety advocates, and the Russian firm responsible for implementation. While the respective ministries have championed the Intelligent Transport Management System (ITMS) as a tech-driven solution for enhancing road safety and security, road safety advocates view it primarily as a tool to curb reckless driving. Meanwhile, Joint Stock Company Global Security views the system as a means to recover its substantial investment through traffic fines. According to some officials, the public backlash highlights a missed opportunity to educate citizens on the relationship between speed and safety.

(The Independent)

Rwanda

Rwanda Considers Naturalising 14,000 Island Residents

The Rwandan Government is considering granting citizenship to more than 14000 residents who live on islands in Lake Kivu without legal recognition as Rwandese.  Some of the people in these islands are third-generation Rwandans, despite not having identification papers. The issue came to a head when the Ministry of Local Government was asked to elaborate on the status of the residents of the Rwandan Islands. The Minister of State in the Ministry of Local Government stated that all the required information had been collected and that those who qualified and had applied for citizenship would receive it. The process to give them citizenship is underway, with different government institutions working in coordination. Priority will be given to applicants who are married to Rwandan citizens and those meeting the criteria outlined in the 2022 Ministerial Order on nationality.

(The New Times)

Ethiopia

PM Abiy Highlights Ethiopia’s Ongoing Push for Favourable Democratic Environment, Political Renewal

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to democratic renewal, highlighting the efforts made since 2018 to transform political parties from mere opposition into legitimate competitors, a critical step toward fostering peaceful political contestation. As part of an ongoing series of stakeholder consultations, he has convened dialogues with registered political parties to address and hear citizens’ concerns directly. This broad engagement underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a democratic culture founded on open dialogue and inclusive decision-making.

(ENA)