Kenya

KOKO Networks’ Collapse Deals KSh6.4B Blow to Its UK Parent

The collapse of Nairobi-based KOKO Networks has resulted in a KSh6.4 billion loss for its UK parent company, after the Kenyan subsidiary failed to secure approval to export carbon credits, forcing a KSh6.15 billion loan write-off and asset impairments. With the Kenyan unit as the sole supplier of credits, its entry into administration effectively broke the group’s revenue model, leaving the company unable to continue operations due to cash-flow constraints and a lack of funding. The firm, which had invested over Sh48.9 billion in Kenya and supported more than 1.5 million households with subsidised clean cooking solutions, had been banking on access to higher-value compliance carbon markets to achieve profitability.

(Source: Business Daily)

Uganda

Total Energies Commission Upgrades LPG Filling and Storage Facility in Jinja

Total Energies Marketing Uganda has inaugurated its upgraded LPG filling and storage plant in Jinja, a move aimed at improving access to cleaner and safer cooking energy across Uganda. The renovated facility features automated systems, enhanced safety controls, and increased capacity of up to 140 tonnes of storage and over 40 tonnes of daily production, boosting the efficiency and reliability of cylinder supply. Company leadership stated that the investment aligns with TotalEnergies’ long-term goal of expanding access to clean cooking across Africa while supporting environmental sustainability through reduced emissions and initiatives such as tree planting. Government and Uganda National Oil Company officials welcomed the project as a significant milestone in advancing the country’s clean energy agenda, recognising its importance ahead of future domestic gas production linked to Uganda’s oil developments.

(Source: The Independent)

Tanzania

BoT Sees Fintech as a Pillar of Financial Inclusion as Mobile Money Services Reach Millions in Africa

The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has called for a shift from merely expanding access to financial services to ensuring their meaningful and productive use, amid rapid growth in financial inclusion across the continent. Speaking at the East Africa Investment Forum in Dar es Salaam, the Bank’s Director of Financial Inclusion noted that financial technology, particularly mobile money, has facilitated access for millions, with over 300 million users registered across Africa by 2025. However, he observed that usage levels remain below expectations, emphasising that the main challenge now is transforming access into genuine financial empowerment and better livelihoods. He also highlighted ongoing investor interest in Africa’s FinTech sector, driven by profitability and high-quality opportunities, while pointing to Tanzania’s stable economic environment as a solid foundation for scaling digital financial services to support sustainable development.

(Source: Daily News)

Rwanda

SMEs Urged to Explore Alternative Bank Loans for Funding

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are being encouraged to look beyond traditional bank loans and explore capital markets as efforts intensify to expand access to long-term and sustainable financing. Despite ongoing initiatives such as the Rwanda Stock Exchange Investment Clinic, many SMEs remain ill-prepared to fully capitalise on these opportunities due to gaps in governance, financial reporting, and compliance structures. The programme is working to bridge these challenges by strengthening corporate governance, improving financial transparency, and linking investment-ready firms with potential financiers, as stakeholders push a broader shift toward equity listings and corporate bonds. Experts note that while the transition offers businesses access to more stable funding and improved growth prospects, success will depend on how quickly SMEs build the institutional readiness required to meet capital market standards.

(Source: The New Times)

Ethiopia

Ethiopia Discusses Debt Restructuring Under G20 Common Framework with Saudi Arabia

Ethiopia has intensified efforts to address its external debt issues through the G20 Common Framework, engaging in new discussions with Saudi Arabia on restructuring terms and wider development finance cooperation. The talks between Finance Minister Ahmed Shide and the Saudi Fund for Development centred on advancing bilateral agreements, supporting key infrastructure projects such as a planned mega airport, and prioritising investment areas. This engagement is part of a broader diplomatic initiative seen in recent weeks, with Ethiopia also reaching or advancing similar debt restructuring negotiations with China, Italy, and France as it seeks to reduce debt pressures following its Eurobond default. Although some progress has been achieved with bilateral creditors, negotiations with commercial bondholders remain complicated due to concerns over burden-sharing and fair treatment, highlighting the ongoing challenges to Ethiopia’s broader economic recovery strategy.

(Source: Addis Standard)

Sudan

Sudan USSD Launch Sparks Debate Over Shadow Economy

Sudan has introduced a USSD-based mobile financial service to increase financial inclusion and formalise transactions in a largely cash-driven economy. However, experts remain divided on its effectiveness amid the ongoing conflict and weak infrastructure. The system, created in partnership with the central bank and the telecom regulator, enables basic transactions, such as money transfers and balance checks, over 2G networks without requiring internet access. It specifically targets remote and underserved communities. Supporters argue that it could bring millions of unbanked citizens into the formal financial system and help reduce Sudan’s estimated 65% shadow economy. Conversely, critics warn that damaged telecom networks, power instability, and past failures in mobile money systems could limit its success. The initiative is often compared to Kenya’s M-Pesa model, though analysts emphasise that success will depend on network integration, low transaction costs, and effective coordination among operators.

(Source: Sudan Tribune)

Somalia

PM Barre Dismisses Executives to Optimise Ministerial Operations

Somalia’s Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has dismissed two state ministers in a cabinet reshuffle aimed at strengthening government efficiency and improving performance in key sectors. The changes, which affect the ministries of Petroleum and Mineral Resources and of Agriculture and Irrigation, were made under constitutional provisions and are intended to streamline operations, reduce bureaucratic delays, and enhance service delivery. The Prime Minister’s office stated the move reflects a broader effort to reinforce accountability and ensure ministries are better aligned with national priorities. While recognising the service of the outgoing officials, the government emphasised that the restructuring is part of ongoing efforts to build a more responsive and effective cabinet.

(Source: SONNA)