Kenya 

NSE Loses KSh132.7B Amid Middle East Conflict Fears 

The Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) lost approximately KSh132.74 billion in market valuation over four trading days as investors sold local equities and moved funds into cash and safer assets in response to heightened global risks tied to the United States, Israel, and Iran military conflict. Local institutional investors were particularly active sellers amid rising geopolitical uncertainty, prompting downward pressure on major counters. The sell‑off reflected broader risk‑off sentiment across global markets due to concerns over energy supply disruptions and heightened volatility. The fluctuation underscores how external geopolitical events, even distant ones, can materially influence Kenya’s capital markets. 

(Source: Business Daily Africa) 

Uganda 

Pension Sector Expands to UGX 30.7T 

Uganda’s retirement benefits sector has grown significantly, with total pension assets reaching UGX 30.7 trillion in 2025, up from UGX 25.4 trillion the previous year, according to the government’s annual sector performance report. The number of Ugandans saving for retirement has also increased to about 4.06 million members, compared with 3.37 million previously. Officials say the sector now represents roughly 13.6 percent of Uganda’s GDP, reflecting its growing role in national savings and investment. However, coverage remains limited, with only 16 percent of the working-age population enrolled in formal pension schemes, leaving a large informal workforce outside retirement protection. 

(Source: The Independent) 

Tanzania 

Tanzania Launches Housing Microfinance Scheme for Low–Income Earners 

Tanzania has introduced a new housing microfinance scheme designed to widen access to affordable home financing for low‑income earners. The programme, launched by the national government in partnership with financial institutions, will offer reduced‑cost loans and flexible repayment terms to enable more Tanzanians to build or improve homes. Authorities said the initiative targets underserved segments of the population, including informal sector workers who traditionally struggle to qualify for conventional mortgages. Officials expect the microfinance scheme to stimulate housing development, boost construction activity, and enhance living conditions across urban and rural areas. Early uptake has been described as promising. 

(Source: The Citizen) 

Rwanda 

Rwanda Poised to Benefit Economically from Tour du Rwanda 2026  

Business leaders in Rwanda expect the Tour du Rwanda 2026 cycling event to boost local commerce, tourism, and investment opportunities. The multi‑stage race, which attracts international riders and spectators, is projected to increase demand for accommodation, transport, hospitality, and retail services. Event organisers and private sector stakeholders say the race enhances Rwanda’s global profile as a destination for sports and leisure tourism, stimulating economic activity in Kigali and other host regions. Businesses are preparing promotions and partnerships to capitalise on increased visitor numbers and media exposure. The event aligns with Rwanda’s broader strategy to diversify revenue sources and strengthen private sector growth.  

(Source: New Times)  

Ethiopia 

Ethio Telecom and Ericsson Expand Network Partnership 

State-owned Ethio telecom has signed a new agreement with Swedish telecommunications firm Ericsson to expand mobile network infrastructure across Ethiopia. The deal aims to extend 4G-LTE services to more than 100 towns and upgrade about 1,500 mobile network sites, strengthening connectivity nationwide. The agreement was signed by Ethio telecom CEO Frehiwot Tamiru during a global telecom industry event in Barcelona. Ericsson has a long history in Ethiopia, dating back to the late nineteenth century, and has played a key role in earlier telecom infrastructure projects. The new partnership supports Ethiopia’s broader strategy to modernize digital infrastructure and expand high-speed internet access. 

(Source: The Reporter Ethiopia) 

Sudan 

Sudan’s Industrial Sector Suffers Massive War Losses 

Sudan’s industrial sector has suffered severe damage during the ongoing conflict, with losses estimated between US $50 billion and US $58 billion, according to the Sudanese Federation of Industries. Thousands of factories, particularly in Khartoum, have been looted or destroyed, including about 650 facilities completely wiped out, many located in the capital’s main industrial zone. The federation reports that roughly 1,800 industrial facilities have been damaged across multiple states. Industry leaders have called for the creation of an independent national reconstruction commission with broad oversight powers to coordinate recovery and rebuild infrastructure. Experts estimate that the sector could recover within five years if concessional international financing becomes available. 

(Source: Sudan Tribune) 

Somalia 

EU‑Backed Funding Supports Somalia’s Private Sector Reconstruction 
The European Union announced approximately US $35.5 million in funding targeted at Somalia’s private sector as part of post‑conflict resilience and reconstruction efforts. The financing is directed toward small and medium‑sized enterprises, vocational training programs, and business capacity support to stimulate job creation and economic recovery. Officials describe the initiative as part of broader EU development cooperation aiming to improve socio‑economic conditions while reinforcing institutional governance. This commitment comes amid ongoing stabilisation efforts and aims to harness local entrepreneurship to drive sustainable growth. 

(Source: Ecofin Agency)