Kenya 

Housing Levy: What KRA Can Do to Recover Unpaid Contributions 

KRA is considering stronger enforcement measures to recover unpaid Affordable Housing Levy contributions, including seizing household assets from persistent defaulters. The move comes as the tax authority seeks to improve compliance and recover outstanding payments, with the law allowing KRA to pursue taxpayers who fail to meet their obligations. The authority may first use other recovery mechanisms, including issuing demand notices and pursuing payment from employers or other responsible parties. The measures are likely to increase pressure on both employers and employees to ensure Housing Levy deductions and remittances are made on time. The enforcement approach signals a tougher stance on Housing Levy compliance as the government seeks to secure a steady revenue stream for the Affordable Housing Programme. 

(Source: Business Daily) 

Uganda 

MTN MoMo Launches Campaign to Promote Responsible Digital Borrowing 

MTN Mobile Money Uganda has launched a nationwide financial literacy campaign, “Borrow. Pay Back. Neela Neela”, to promote responsible use of digital loans and timely repayment. The campaign targets individuals, traders, farmers, agents and merchants, highlighting how good repayment habits can strengthen credit records and improve access to future financing. It will provide practical guidance on borrowing within one’s means, managing repayments and using digital credit to support personal and business needs. The initiative will use media, digital platforms and community outreach to support financial inclusion and responsible borrowing across Uganda. 

(Source: The Independent) 

Tanzania 

Cement Crisis: Manufacturers Given Seven Days to Act 

Tanzania’s government has given cement manufacturers seven days to submit proposals on addressing cement shortages and rising prices. The Ministry of Industry and Trade is seeking measures to improve supply and ensure prices remain affordable while balancing the interests of manufacturers, traders and consumers. The proposals will inform further government action to stabilise the cement market. The review involves key regulators, including the Fair Competition Commission, Tanzania Bureau of Standards and TanTrade. 

(Source: Daily News) 

Rwanda 

The Rise of Influencer Marketing in Rwanda’s Digital Economy 

Rwanda’s influencer marketing industry is becoming an increasingly important part of the country’s communications and advertising landscape, with brands, government agencies and tourism organisations partnering with content creators to reach audiences more authentically. The growing influence of creators such as Kagarara, Ngabo Karegeya and others has also helped promote Rwanda to international audiences. At the same time, brands are increasingly prioritising credibility, audience engagement and relevance over follower numbers. 

(Source: New Times) 

Ethiopia 

Ethiopia Highlights Digital Transformation at 7th BRICS ICT Working Group Meeting in India 

Ethiopia showcased its Digital Ethiopia 2030 agenda at the 7th BRICS ICT Working Group Meeting in India, highlighting initiatives such as the Fayda Digital ID and MESOB one-stop digital services platform. The country presented these initiatives as part of efforts to modernise public service delivery, expand digital access and support technology-driven economic growth, while strengthening ICT cooperation with BRICS countries. 

(Source: ENA) 

Sudan 

Sudan Central Bank Reviews Foreign Exchange Interventions to Stabilise Currency 

The Central Bank of Sudan is reviewing recent foreign exchange interventions to improve liquidity and stabilise the local currency amid continued exchange-rate pressures and inflation. The regulator is working with commercial banks to refine currency allocation mechanisms, prioritise essential and productive imports, and ensure export earnings are repatriated through official banking channels rather than the parallel market. 

(Source: Sudan Tribune) 

Somalia 

Fast or Right? Somalia’s Common Market Choice and China’s Fifteen-Year Answer 

Somalia joined the East African Community in March 2024 but has yet to implement the Customs Union and Common Market Protocols. The delay has implications for Somali businesses and professionals, who could face increased competition from more established regional firms. At the same time, Somalia needs to strengthen customs systems, professional capacity and domestic institutions while leveraging opportunities in sectors such as fisheries through a phased approach to regional integration. 

(Source: SONNA)