Kenya   

Kenya Courts EU for Fibre, AI and Data Centre Investments   

Kenya is engaging the European Union to mobilise investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure, data centres, and fibre connectivity as part of its ambition to become a regional digital centre. Discussions include expanding fibre networks, developing AI computing capacity, and extending subsea cable links such as the Blue-Raman system.   

The government is seeking approximately KSh484.2 billion to deploy 100,000km of fibre over a 10-year period ending in 2032. The EU is also advocating for regulatory alignment on data protection and AI to facilitate investment and cross-border data flows. Officials state that the partnership could establish Kenya as a vital digital corridor connecting Africa, Europe, and Asia.    

(Source: Business Daily Africa)   

Tanzania    

Tanzania Issues Directives to Boost Minority‑Owned Firms     

Tanzania has issued eight new government directives aimed at boosting participation and growth of minority interest firms across the economy. The directives include measures to improve access to finance, simplify business registration and licensing, promote technology adoption, and enhance market access for underrepresented entrepreneurs. Authorities said the initiative is part of broader efforts to foster inclusive economic growth, address structural inequalities, and support small and medium enterprises from historically marginalised groups. The government also highlighted capacity-building support and public procurement opportunities to ensure minority-owned businesses can compete effectively and contribute to national development.    

(Source: The Citizen)    

Uganda   

FMO Extends $20M Facility to I&M Bank to Boost SME Financing   

The Dutch development bank FMO has provided a $20 million financing facility to I&M Bank Uganda to support lending to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The facility includes an initial $10 million tranche, with funds aimed at underserved segments such as women-owned businesses, agribusinesses, and unbanked entrepreneurs.    

The partnership seeks to broaden access to credit, advance financial inclusion, and boost job creation throughout Uganda’s private sector. Officials highlighted that SMEs remain vital to economic transformation but continue to face ongoing financing difficulties. The funding supports wider development objectives, including lowering inequality and fostering sustainable business growth through better access to capital.    

(Source: The Independent, Uganda)   

Rwanda   

Rwanda Seeks New Export Markets Amid Middle East Disruptions   

The government of Rwanda is actively seeking alternative export markets as ongoing disruptions in the Middle East affect trade flows and logistics. Officials say exporters, particularly in horticulture, have faced significant losses due to flight cancellations and supply chain interruptions, with some reporting losses exceeding Rwf100 million in recent weeks. The disruptions stem from restricted airspace and higher freight costs linked to escalating regional conflict, which has affected key export routes.   

In response, Rwanda is exploring new markets in Africa, Europe, and Asia, while also promoting regional trade corridors and direct cargo routes to reduce its dependence on the Gulf. The strategy aims to sustain export growth, protect businesses, and build resilience against external shocks.   

(Source: The New Times)   

Ethiopia   

Ethiopia Advances Digital Securities Trading System   

Ethiopia has introduced a modern digital securities system to transform its financial markets and improve efficiency in government debt issuance. The platform enables full dematerialisation of securities, replacing paper-based instruments with digital issuance and trading, while supporting delivery-versus-payment settlement in central bank money within seconds. Following implementation, the Ministry of Finance transitioned to competitive public auctions for government securities, attracting stronger demand and increasing participation from non-bank and retail investors. Authorities say the reform strengthens market transparency, improves the transmission of monetary policy, and aligns with broader financial sector modernisation efforts.    

(Source: Ethiopian News Agency)   

Sudan    

Sudan’s Inflation Slows but Economic Hardship Persists   

Sudan’s annual inflation rate fell to 56.39% in February 2026, down from 60.26% in January, according to the country’s Central Bureau of Statistics. Despite the decline, prices of essential goods remain high, with urban inflation at 72.12% and rural inflation at 54.08%, reflecting ongoing cost pressures. Data collection challenges continue in conflict-affected regions such as Darfur, where insecurity has hindered field surveys. Economists note the decrease is due to statistical base effects rather than actual price relief, as the Sudanese pound keeps depreciating and purchasing power stays weak. Many households still struggle to afford basic necessities amid ongoing conflict and economic disruption.   

(Source: Sudan Tribune)   

Somalia   

Somalia Issues Directive to Stabilise Fuel Prices and Protect Consumers   

The Somalia Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources has issued a strategic directive instructing fuel merchants and distributors to maintain fair and stable pricing amid rising economic pressures. The order, delivered by Director General Mohamed Hashi Arabey, requires operators to consider the country’s economic realities and avoid imposing excessive costs on consumers, particularly in the transport and logistics sectors.    

The directive forms part of a wider government effort to reduce price volatility, protect vulnerable households, and maintain economic resilience. Authorities have indicated they will closely monitor market behaviour to ensure compliance and promote transparency, emphasising that commercial success should not come at the expense of citizens facing financial hardship.   

(Source: Sonna News)