Major International Business Headlines Brief ::: 19 June 2025

[Bulls n Bears]

 <https://bullszimbabwe.com/> 

 


 

 <http://www.bullszimbabwe.com> Bullszimbabwe.com
<mailto:info at bulls.co.zw?subject=View%20and%20Comments> Views & Comments
<https://bullszimbabwe.com/category/blogs/bullish-thoughts/> Bullish
Thoughts        <http://www.twitter.com/BullsBears2010> Twitter
<https://www.facebook.com/BullsBearsZimbabwe> Facebook
<http://www.linkedin.com/pub/bulls-n-bears-zimbabwe/57/577/72> LinkedIn
<https://chat.whatsapp.com/CF6wllAfScU9Wr6dXxoQnO> WhatsApp
<mailto:bulls at bullszimbabwe.com?subject=Unsubscribe> Unsubscribe

 


 

 


Major International Business Headlines Brief :::  19 June  2025 

 


 


 


 <mailto:info at bulls.co.zw> 

 


 

 


 

ü  Nigeria: What Hike in Oil Prices Means for Nigeria - Analysts

ü  Namibia: President Nandi-Ndaitwah Urges Commonwealth to Foster Resilience
and Inclusive Trade

ü  Tanzania: President Samia Hassan Lays Accent On Tax

ü  Ethiopia: Despite Challenges, Ethiopia Embarking On Maximizing Benefits
>From Leather Industry

ü  Ethiopia, U.S. Eye Closer Ties in High-Level Meeting

ü  South Africa: Multi-Billion Limpopo Mega-Project Has Ground to a Halt

ü  South Africa: Loan Company Exploited Social Grant Beneficiaries, Court
Rules

ü  Kenya: Air France Deploys Airbus A350 to Paris-Nairobi Route

ü  Namibia: Green Hydrogen to Raise Namibians' Standard of Living - Planning
Commission

ü  Kenya: Sh2.08bn Salaries Owed to University Staff in 2024 Still Unpaid,
Audit

ü  Rwanda: Central Bank Explains New Changes in Foreign Currency Use

ü  Rwanda: Kigali's Smart Street-Cleaning Revolution Driven By Innovation
and Dignity

ü  Rwanda: Cabo Delgado - Rwandan Forces Donate Fishing Boat to Locals

 


 <mailto:info at bulls.co.zw> 

 


Nigeria: What Hike in Oil Prices Means for Nigeria - Analysts

Oil prices have sustained an upward rally as Brent Crude hit $76.10 per
barrel, raising hope for higher reserves accretion, stable naira and
elevated dollar liquidity, Daily Trust can report.

 

The ongoing oil prices rally over the Israel-Iran war portends a combination
of risks and upsides for the economy, underlining the need for proactive
management of its impact.

 

Brent Oil Futures for July delivery gained over nine per cent, trading at
$75.15 per barrel (pb), the highest price since early February.

 

Brent Crude hits $76.10

 

Yesterday, Brent Crude was sold for $76.10 per barrel, rising by $1.10 per
barrel against the $75 for which the 2025 budget was benchmarked by the
federal government.

 

 

This, analysts say represents a ray of hope for Nigeria in its drive to
implement the budget.

 

At the same time, the oil price rally provides further relief for Nigeria's
Central Bank to further leverage on to consolidate recent gains on foreign
reserves, price and exchange naira stability.

 

Oil prices spiked higher at the weekend after Israel executed a large
preemptive strike on Iran, heightening concerns of a wider conflict in the
Middle East and significant disruptions to oil supply routes.

 

Brent Oil Futures for July delivery gained over nine per cent, trading at
$75.15 per barrel, the highest price since early February. West Texas
Intermediate (WTI) crude futures increased to $74 per barrel, posting a 10
per cent increase at their peak.

 

While markets are closely monitoring the potential impact on Iranian oil
production, analysts believe escalating concerns over a possible blockade of
the Strait of Hormuz could trigger a sharp surge in oil prices.

 

 

Besides, fundamental reforms introduced by the apex bank have also corrected
structural imbalances that prevented maximum growth. The Gross Domestic
Product (GDP) grew by 3.4 per cent in 2024, with the fourth quarter hitting
4.6 per cent, the highest quarter of growth in over a decade.

 

Inflation is easing gradually, steadying the price of food staples like rice
and beans while net foreign reserves have increased fivefold, and the Naira
exchange rate has stabilised.

 

Analyst Daan Struyven at Goldman Sachs raised his short-term price target,
warning that the conflict could briefly cut 1.75 million bpd of Iranian oil,
pushing Brent above $90p/b.

 

Aside from the expected surge in oil revenue, the Central Bank of Nigeria
(CBN) governor, Olayemi Cardoso has activated other measures that will
ensure that more dollars accrue to the economy.

 

The apex bank is taking measures to improve Nigeria's export potential,
promoting backward integration principles to reduce import of items that can
be produced locally and simplifying dollar remittances to the domestic
economy for Nigerians in diaspora.

 

Drawing from China's economic strategy, the apex bank said Nigeria's
competitive exchange rate can drive export-led growth.

 

To harness this potential, businesses are expected to adopt export-oriented
strategies by targeting sectors with strong export potential such as
agriculture, manufacturing and creative industries; implement
import-substitution models by strengthening domestic production capabilities
and reducing reliance on costly imports; and focus on value addition by
shifting from exporting raw materials to processed goods, thereby boosting
foreign exchange earnings.

 

There is correlation between crude oil prices and market performance - Yusuf

 

Chief Executive Officer, Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise
(CPPE), Dr Muda Yusuf said there is a flight by investors towards 'safe
haven assets' as global uncertainty heightens.

 

However, in Nigeria, there is historically a positive correlation between
crude oil prices, GDP growth, and stock market performance. "The outlook for
the Nigerian stock market is therefore likely to be positive in the current
context," Yusuf said.

 

He said the surge in crude oil price would impact Nigeria's forex earnings,
oil being the biggest forex earner for the country.

 

"This development would also positively impact the country's foreign
reserves, ensure better forex liquidity and ultimately the stability of the
naira exchange rate.

 

"The oil sector currently accounts for a significant amount of government
revenue. An improvement in crude oil price would therefore have a
significant impact on government revenue. An improvement in revenue would
positively impact fiscal consolidation and hopefully moderate the growth of
the fiscal deficit.

 

"Investments in the oil and gas sector would post better returns if the
conflict persists. High oil price is good news for upstream oil and gas
investors," Yusuf said.

 

19.5 trn oil revenue target on course - Analysts

 

Also, the possibility of the federal government achieving N19.5 trillion oil
revenue target for the year rose with the soaring prices of crude oil over
the Middle East crisis.

 

Analysts at Afrinvest West Africa, said that the federal government's
projected oil revenue of N19.5 trillion will be on track.

 

They highlighted that based on previous macro commentary, the federal
government needs to deploy a more prudent framework that prioritises
sustainable budget growth.

 

To sustain revenue surge, the analysts recommended some measures the FG can
take to sustain the improved macroeconomic environment.

 

Firstly, with the increase in revenues and substantial reduction in PMS,
electricity and FX subsidies, the FG should be deploying more resources
towards critical infrastructure development while also tackling insecurity
headlong to support improved productivity in the agrarian communities.

 

Secondly, the federal government needs to prioritise optimising revenue
potentials by strategically using the instrumentality of the state to end
crude oil theft and boost aggregate output to the target 2.06mbpd level.

 

Also, as recommended by the World Bank, reducing the cost A of governance
would be pivotal to Nigeria's revitalisation drives, given the current
disturbing level of debt profile.

 

Impact on telecoms

 

According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the total active
telephony subscribers increased by 3.2 per cent month/month to 164.93
million in December 2024.

 

The increase reflects the gradual recovery in the subscriber base following
the conclusion of the NIN-SIM linkage program by mobile service providers in
September.

 

Analyzing the market share by operators, MTN Nigeria led by 51.4 per cent
with 84.61 million subscribers, Airtel Nigeria followed with 34.4 per cent
(56.62 million subscribers), Globacom with 12.2 per cent (20.14 million
subscribers) and 9mobile with 2.0 per cent (3.28 million subscribers).

 

At the same time, the total number of internet subscribers rose by two per
cent month/month to 139.28 million in December.

 

Looking ahead, analysts at Cordros Securities, said they expect subscriber
base recovery through SIM reactivation initiatives, especially from market
leaders - MTN Nigeria and Airtel Nigeria.

 

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) third quarter 2024
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) report, the Information and Communication
sector is made up of telecommunications (telecoms) and information services;
publishing; motion picture, sound recording and music production; and
broadcasting.

 

We need to produce more - Marketer

 

A petroleum marketer, Otunba Tunji Oyebanji stressed the need for the
country to produce more crude oil to take advantage of the rising fuel
prices.

 

According to him, the oil price rise signals a positive development for
boosting Nigeria's dollar earnings.

 

"This development means more dollars for us if we can produce. Are we
producing more crude oil? Normally, it is good for us, if prices go high but
that only makes sense if we are producing more oil," he said.

 

Emeritus Professor of Petroleum Economics, Wumi Iledare stressed that higher
oil prices would strengthen the naira stability.

 

He said, "Higher oil prices typically translate to increased naira inflows
for the government. However, when the naira is severely devalued against the
dollar, the real value of these inflows is eroded. This situation,
compounded by demand-pull inflation, weakens consumer purchasing power."

 

Dangote Refinery liberating Nigeria - C'tee on Crude Oil Sales

 

The $20 billion Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals has been hailed
as a symbol of industrial revolution, driving Nigeria's economic
emancipation.

 

This commendation was made by the Technical Committee of the One-Stop Shop
(OSS) for sale of crude and refined products in naira initiative during a
tour of the facility on Tuesday.

 

Coordinator of the OSS Technical Committee, Mrs Maureen Ogbonna, who led the
delegation, described the refinery as a breath of fresh air, impacting
virtually every sector of the economy.

 

"This refinery touches all our lives. There's scarcely any sector
unaffected. From pharmaceuticals to construction, food to plastics, this
project is transformational. God has used the president of the Dangote Group
to liberate Nigeria. I see this as the beginning of an industrial
revolution," she said.

 

Noting that, in line with President Bola Tinubu's vision of achieving full
domestic sufficiency in petroleum products and positioning Nigeria as a
major global exporter, the committee is committed to eliminating regulatory,
operational and logistical barriers that hinder the smooth supply and sale
of domestic crude oil and refined products in naira.

 

Reflecting on the scale and sophistication of the facility, Ogbonna, who had
visited during construction and more recently alongside the leadership of
the Nigerian Ports Authority, expressed continued awe at its execution.

 

"It is truly mind blowing that one man could envision and execute such a
project. As we toured the refinery, we thought we had seen everything until
we reached the laboratory. That lab alone is an institution. I don't know of
any institution in Nigeria or even globally that boasts such a laboratory
for petrochemical," she said.

 

Applauding the engineering feat, Ogbonna urged Dangote to remain focused and
undeterred by detractors, emphasising that the project is a global
achievement, not a personal enterprise.

 

"We feel truly honoured to have been warmly received by the president of the
Dangote Group and his team. My advice to him is: do not be discouraged by
critics. He was never self centred. Despite the obstacles, he was driven by
a vision for Nigeria's future, reaching far beyond Africa," she added.

 

In response, Aliko Dangote applauded the technical committee for its role in
supporting the implementation of President Tinubu's laudable Naira-for-Crude
initiative. He commended the positive impact of the naira-for-crude swap
deal on the Nigerian economy, noting that it has led to a reduction in
petroleum product prices, eased pressure on the dollar, and ensured the
stability of the local currency, among others.

 

However, he noted that due to a shortage of domestic crude oil, the refinery
has increasingly relied on imports from the United States to meet its needs
in recent months.

 

Dangote stressed the importance of bold investment in strategic sectors as a
key to industrialisation, revealing that building the refinery required
extensive infrastructure development, including a world-class,
self-sufficient marine facility capable of accommodating the largest vessels
globally. He assured the delegation of the refinery's commitment to national
development.

 

Read the original article on Daily Trust.

 

 

 

 

 

Namibia: President Nandi-Ndaitwah Urges Commonwealth to Foster Resilience
and Inclusive Trade

The President H.E. Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called on Commonwealth
nations to strengthen trade linkages and foster resilience amidst global
economic challenges, as she officially opened the Third Commonwealth Trade
Ministers Meeting (CTMM) and the inaugural Commonwealth Business Summit
(CBS) in Windhoek on Wednesday.

 

Hosting the CTMM for the first time outside the United Kingdom,
Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized the historic significance of the event for Namibia
and the broader Commonwealth.

 

Reflecting on the Commonwealth's pivotal role in her nation's history,
President Nandi-Ndaitwah noted its instrumental support during Namibia's
liberation struggle and its assistance in establishing key government
institutions post-independence.

 

 

She extended congratulations to Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, the new
Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Secretariat, hailing her as a
"daughter of the African soil" whose leadership would build on predecessors'
remarkable work.

 

The President highlighted the immense global influence of the Commonwealth,
which represents one-third of the world's population, including one billion
people from 27 African nations. She described it as "one of the powerful
alliances globally, but a driving force for global peace, stability, and
trade for sustainable development," reaffirming the collective ambition to
grow intra-Commonwealth trade to over USD 2 trillion.

 

Nandi-Ndaitwah underscored that the meetings, themed "Fostering Resilience:
Strengthening Intra-Commonwealth Trade and Investment Linkages," are
convening at a critical juncture.

 

 

She described the current global landscape as navigating "unprecedented
economic challenges reshaped by shifting alliances, adapting to climate
disruptions, bridging the global divide, and responding to shifting
geopolitical dynamics." Despite these, she stressed, the Commonwealth's
strength "remains in our shared unity of purpose and prosperity."

 

The President outlined several key discussion areas on the agenda. She
particularly noted the focus on sustainable energy transition, which aligns
directly with Namibia's emerging energy and oil and gas sectors, presenting
"untapped... new trade and investment opportunities" for the Commonwealth.
Other crucial topics for deliberation, she added, include navigating the
potential impact of trade wars and leveraging digital transformation for
trade facilitation. She urged that the Commonwealth must "lead with
foresight and unity, ensuring that no member state is left behind."

 

Nandi-Ndaitwah also strongly called for actionable solutions, especially on
climate change, whose impacts disproportionately affect the Global South,
women, and youth. She implored that the dialogue "should translate into
practical, inclusive and sustainable solutions that respond to these
realities and build climate resilient communities."

 

Commenting on the inaugural Commonwealth Business Summit, which began
concurrently, Nandi-Ndaitwah praised its aim to strengthen public-private
partnerships, unlock trade and investment opportunities, and catalyze
solutions to shared challenges. She emphasized that the presence of business
leaders "signifies the urgent need for strong public-private partnerships."

 

Nandi-Ndaitwah asserted the nation's readiness to build strategic
partnerships by reaffirming Namibia's commitment. She highlighted Namibia's
ongoing efforts to address its trade deficit, drive value addition, and
adopt resilient supply chains. She further assured delegates of Namibia's
"conducive environment for both investors and the private sector to conduct
business," a fact she attributed to the country's peace, stability, and
consistent democratic transitions.

 

Nandi-Ndaitwah concluded by pledging her administration's full support to
initiatives driving socio-economic development across the Commonwealth and
extended a warm invitation for delegates to explore Namibia beyond its
capital, wishing them "fruitful deliberations."

 

Read the original article on Namibia Economist.

 

 

 

Tanzania: President Samia Hassan Lays Accent On Tax

Simiyu — PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan has directed all councils across the
country to enhance their efforts in collecting taxes and levies, emphasising
the need for Tanzania to strengthen its financial independence and reduce
reliance on donor funding.

 

Speaking at a public rally in Bariadi Town on the fourth day of her working
tour of Simiyu Region yesterday, President Samia noted that although
councils receive substantial funding from the central government, their
contributions from internal revenue sources remain disproportionately low.

 

"Our councils receive a lot from the central government but contribute very
little. Strengthening levy collection is crucial for our development to move
forward," she said.

 

 

President Samia stressed that domestic resource mobilisation is essential in
the face of global uncertainties, including conflicts and fluctuating fuel
prices, which affect international funding and economic stability.

 

"The world is unpredictable, with ongoing conflicts and rising prices of
essential commodities. This is why we must strengthen our internal revenue
collection to finance our own development and reduce dependency," said
President Samia.

 

"The world is unpredictable, with wars and price hikes in essential
commodities. That is why we must strengthen our internal revenue
collections, so we can fund our own develop ment and reduce dependency,"
President Samia said.

 

This is not the first time the president has made such a call. In March this
year, while opening the 39th Annual General Meeting of the Association of
Local Authorities of Tanzania (ALAT), she similarly urged councils to
innovate and broaden their revenue base.

 

During her address in Bariadi yesterday, President Samia urged all economic
stakeholders, including large and small business owners and livestock
keepers to pay taxes and fees faithfully, as a civic duty contributing to
national progress.

 

Read the original article on Daily News.

 

 

 

 

Ethiopia: Despite Challenges, Ethiopia Embarking On Maximizing Benefits From
Leather Industry

Ethiopia's leather industry is a strategically important sector with
significant potential for growth and export diversification. The country
possesses abundant resources, including a large livestock population, and a
trainable, competitively priced workforce. While the sector has faced
challenges, including fluctuating exports and quality issues, new strategies
and initiatives are being implemented to enhance its competitiveness and
position Ethiopia as a leading leather producer.

 

One of the issues that Ethiopia is most concerned about in Africa is its
livestock resources. Due to the abundance of livestock, it has the
opportunity to be a leader in leather production. However, it is repeatedly
criticized for not producing leather products that are competitive in the
world market.

 

Supporting this idea, Industry Minister, Melaku Alebel said that it is
appropriate to assess that the sector's resources are not being utilized to
the full extent of its potential. Customers' needs in the sector are
inconsistent; thus, products that are considered desirable quickly go out of
fashion, and that the world is shifting from leather to synthetics; new
needs and the requirements for penetrating the world market that are not
compatible with the country's producers have affected the sector.

 

In addition, COVID and security problems have had a significant impact on
the sector; for this and other reasons, leather is still being thrown out.
It requires a lot of work to bring about change in the sector; it is
necessary to improve the strategy and identify industries that are better in
the sector and can serve as models, he said.

 

 

He also mentioned that work is being done to solve the problems; in addition
to individual support for industries in need; the Manufacturing Industry
Council, which can provide joint support, is being established to give
priority to the sector. Following this, industries that were closed are now
being opened.

 

Zulfakir Abajobir, Director of the Leather Products Research Center, on his
part said that since 2020, there has been a trend of decreasing leather
exports. Study was conducted in 2023 to identify the situation where the
sector has not progressed as required. The study identified that the
country's leather factories are scattered compared to the rest of the world.

 

He also said that there is a problem with the supply of inputs in the
leather industry; limited use of technology and management in the sector;
although there are international standards that leather factories must meet
in terms of environmental and social issues, they were not met at the time
of the study.

 

 

Mentioning that the sector has a gap in terms of financial provision,
Zulfakir pointed out that there is a gap in terms of both the operating
budget and foreign exchange. Although the foreign exchange shortage is being
addressed through the macroeconomic reform implemented in the country, there
is still a shortage of working capital. There is also limitation in terms of
the promotion of leather products.

 

As to the Manager, in addition to supply problems of leather and hides in
the sector, the quality of those provided is also a concern. Apart from the
quality problem of the livestock, there are quality defects caused by humans
after slaughtering the leather and hides until it reaches the factory.

 

Noting that more than 90% of slaughtering is done in private households,
Zulfakir said that there is a problem with the collection of hides and skins
of animals slaughtered in private households and their delivery to
industries. For this, there are rules and regulations for the marketing
system. However, he explained that there is an unresolved ownership issue.

 

He said that the Ministries of Agriculture, Trade and Regional Integration,
and Industry, have discussed the problem in the marketing sector and are
working to resolve the problem.

 

According to Zulfakir, there are 17 criteria that leather factories must
meet in the production process, starting from environmental protection. When
they meet these, they will receive a Leather Working Group (LWG)
certificate. Two years ago, there was no factory in Ethiopia that met these
criteria and had a certificate.

 

Obtaining the certificate is important to break into the global market. The
process of obtaining this certificate should continue for other leather
factories, Zulfakir said; currently, six factories have been able to obtain
the certificate. Four of them are at the gold level; two of them are at the
silver level.

 

When certified factories put their products on the market, global consumers
will understand that the leather products they see on the shelf have been
produced in a safe and environmentally friendly way from the beginning. This
will have a great impact on the market, he said.

 

He recalled that the long chain of leather production from agricultural
development to final production is another challenge for the sector;
however, since the issue is related to animal resource development, the work
done by the Ministry of Agriculture for animal meat and milk benefits the
quality of leather and hide products. A situation has been created for this
purpose to work together with the Ministry of Agriculture.

 

In order to overcome other problems, a review of the ten-year plan has been
carried out. In this regard, the plan that will be implemented until 2033
has been discussed by leaders from top to district levels. The problems of
the sector identified in the study and those set in the plan have begun to
be implemented. Six leather factories that were closed have been reopened
during the Ethiopia Tamirt (Made in Ethiopia) Movement, which is being
carried out nationwide by the Ministry of Industry. Seven leather industries
with 60 to 70% capacity in the leather sector are being identified and the
problems they face in foreign trade are being solved, he said.

 

The Manager further stated that better production technology needs to be
implemented; for this, he pointed out that efforts are being made to bring
the technology they have implemented into the country by working with a
leather research center in India, which has been in the sector for many
years, and to create knowledge transfer in the country's leather factories.

 

In order to convert leather waste into useful products, the sector has
established relationships with the China Leather and Footwear Research
Institute and the Central Leather Research Institute of India, and products
that can be produced using waste products from the leather production
process have been identified. The experiences gained from this process have
started to be implemented in certain leather factories, he explained.

 

Since crocodile skin has a natural design on its own, it is in demand for
bags and shoes, and its price is three to four times higher. Considering
this, research was conducted; Crocodile skin was brought from Arba Minch and
the leather was processed at the institute and delivered to leather
factories. In this process, a factory called Carege Ethiopia has been
supplying crocodile skin bags to the domestic and foreign markets and that
it has been effective, he mentioned

 

Zulfakir said that tanneries have been reluctant to get rid of their
previous experience and to adopt new technologies; but they are now showing
a tendency to accept the best practices coming from the institute and when
the market pushes them, they are doing so.

 

Endorsing Zulfakir's idea, Minister of Industry, Melaku said that there is a
change in the sector; the efficiency of the manufacturing sector is measured
by production capacity and there is improvement in that. For example, he
recalled that in 2023, the production capacity utilization of tanneries was
31.4%; it has now increased to 45.7%.

 

The production capacity utilization of footwear and leather products, which
was 58% in 2023, has now increased to 63%. He noted that a system has been
created to identify what is lacking in a factory in a scientific manner and
find a solution; additionally, training and support have shown that they
have brought about change.

 

According to the Minister; leather producers in the country are producing
quality products and opening stores in major international cities. However,
government institutions in particular are not interested in purchasing local
products. The sector needs attention in terms of government institutions
making large purchases and encouraging local producers. For this reason, the
Ministry is intervening and pressuring them to buy from local producers.

 

He said that training materials are being prepared to ensure that
slaughtering personnel, both in and outside slaughterhouses, are trained.
They have trained nearly a hundred people so far and that no untrained
person should be allowed to enter the job in the future.

 

The Minister of Industry also indicated that they are working to support the
success of the leather industry along the entire value chain, from animal
husbandry to the end. In this process, the Ministry of Agriculture, the
Ministry of Trade, which has a role in monitoring and supporting the
marketing system, and the Ministry of Industry, which has a role in
receiving the leather, carrying out the necessary work and marketing it.
They are doing what is expected of them.

 

BY BACHA ZEWDIE

 

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 19 JUNE 2025

 

 

 

 

Ethiopia, U.S. Eye Closer Ties in High-Level Meeting

ADDIS ABABA -- Ethiopia's Ambassador to the U.S., Binalf Andualem held his
first official meeting with President Donald J. Trump at the White House.

 

The meeting is marking a key diplomatic engagement aimed at strengthening
Ethiopia-U.S. relations.

 

Amb. Binalf received a formal diplomatic welcome, reflecting the deep-rooted
and longstanding ties between the two nations. The meeting, which focused on
mutual interests and regional cooperation, was described by the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs (MoFA) as a positive step toward reinforcing future
collaboration.

 

 

According to MoFA, the discussion covered a wide range of bilateral issues,
including peace and security in the Horn of Africa (HoA), economic
development, investment partnerships, and cooperation in education and
technology transfer. Both sides expressed a shared interest in building on
the existing relationship to address common challenges and seize emerging
opportunities.

 

Amb. Binalf emphasized Ethiopia's ongoing reforms under the Homegrown
Economic Reform Agenda and reaffirmed Ethiopia's commitment to strengthening
democratic institutions, promoting regional stability, and attracting U.S.
investment. He also conveyed the Ethiopian government's appreciation for the
historic partnership between the two countries.

 

President Trump, for his part, acknowledged Ethiopia's role as a strategic
partner in Africa and expressed interest in continued engagement, especially
in promoting regional peace and economic opportunity.

 

MoFA noted that the meeting marks the start of a series of high-level
engagements with U.S. policymakers, think tanks, and business leaders, aimed
at reinvigorating ties and exploring new avenues for cooperation.

 

Ethiopia and the United States share a relationship that spans more than 120
years, grounded in mutual interests and people-to-people ties. The two
nations have collaborated on issues ranging from counterterrorism and
development assistance to humanitarian support and cultural exchange.

 

The Ambassador's visit is expected to pave the way for upcoming dialogue on
trade facilitation, infrastructure development, and Diaspora engagement, as
both sides look toward a more dynamic and mutually beneficial partnership.

 

BY STAFF REPORTER

 

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 19 JUNE 2025

 

 

 

South Africa: Multi-Billion Limpopo Mega-Project Has Ground to a Halt

Makhado Special Economic Zone, announced in 2018, was intended to attract
investments of R40-billion

 

The Musina Makhado Special Economic Zone in Limpopo, announced in 2018 by
President Cyril Ramaphosa, was intended to attract investments of more than
R40-billion.

But seven years later, the project has all but ground to a halt.

Only one company has made a firm commitment to invest.

Though more than R100-million has been spent, there are no roads,
electricity or water connections; and the company contracted to build roads
has terminated the contract.

However, the chair of the board says a turnaround plan is in place and
construction on the first infrastructure projects will start in September.

 

Seven years after its launch by President Cyril Ramaphosa, the multi-billion
Musina Makhado Special Economic Zone (MMSEZ) in Limpopo is at a standstill.
R67.5-million has been spent on consultants and R50-million on roads and
infrastructure. But there is no infrastructure, no electricity connection,
no roads and no water.

 

Described on its website as "a flagship of the Limpopo Provincial
Government" the MMSEZ is "a green field investment platform consisting of
two sites" - Artonvilla, near Musina, intended for light manufacturing, and
Mopani, near Makhado, intended for heavy industry.

 

The zone claims to offer "state of the art logistics facilities promoting
operational excellence"

 

But though the MMSEZ was touted to bring in R40-billion in investments, so
far only one company has made a firm commitment to invest.

 

A report by the chair of the MMSEZ board, Nndweleni Mphephu, to the Limpopo
Economic Development, Environment and Tourism department, shows how little
has happened in what was to be a mega industrial park in the heart of the
Limpopo Valley.

 

 

The report, dated 28 May, follows questions in Parliament and an oversight
visit by MPs to the area.

 

According to the Minister of Trade Industry and Competition Parks Tau,
R2.27-billion would be needed for bulk infrastructure on the site, and
R1.07-billion had been set aside between 2020/1 and 2026/7 in the provincial
budget.

 

In response to a question in Parliament in May from the DA's Toby Chance,
Tau added that the DTIC's Industrial Zones Programme was helping the MMSEZ
with advisory support.

 

Some of the money has already been spent, much of it on consultants.

 

In his report, Mphephu gives a list of consultants, service providers and
contractors who have benefited to date.

 

Spending of just over R85.2-million was approved for consultants, of which
just over R67.5-million has already been paid to 17 consultants, including
engineers, planners, quantity surveyors, project managers and
horticulturists.

 

Just under R40-million has been paid to service providers, including Eskom.

 

According to the report, three contractors have so far benefited, including
Tshiamiso Trading 1 and Tshiamiso Trading 2, which received a R200-million
contract for roads and stormwater infrastructure and a R99.3-million
contract for bulk sewer and wastewater treatment works.

 

A contract for R134-million was awarded to Rembu Construction, also for the
construction of bulk sewer and wastewater treatment works.

 

But though some earthworks have been done by Tshiamiso on the northern site,
there are no finished roads, electricity or water on either site.

 

After being paid just over R50.4-million, Tshiamiso had to stop work on the
northern site, after beginning bush-clearing, because the land belonged to a
different organ of state and transfer had to take place first, the report
says.

 

Tshiamiso has now terminated the contract and is claiming more money from
the MMSEZ, citing non-payment for standing time. This dispute is currently
in litigation.

 

Tshiamiso Trading is also accused of unlawfully removing white rock
materials from another site to the MMSEZ site without the owner's consent or
any formal agreement or compensation.

 

The MMSEZ southern site was gazetted as a Special Economic Zone in 2017, but
it turns out that the northern site at Artonvilla has yet to be gazetted,
according to a response by Tau to a question in Parliament. Tau said the
Limpopo government had indicated it would submit a request before the end of
June 2025 to gazette the northern site.

 

In his report, Mphephu noted fierce "oppositions, dissenting views and
pushbacks" mostly from environmental groups, over the southern site. Some of
these were challenging the Environmental Impact Assessment in the Polokwane
High Court.

 

But in the absence of an interdict, the report says, "all activities leading
to the development, including township establishment processes are expected
to proceed."

 

When President Cyril Ramaphosa publicly announced the MMSEZ in September
2018 following his return from the Forum for Africa and China Cooperation,
it came with the promise of an initial investment value of more than
R40-billion. To date, little of that money appears to have materialised.

 

Responding to questions in Parliament in May, Tau gave a list of investment
pledges amounting to more than R8.64-billion, of which R2.1-billion has been
verified and validated from eight prospective investors.

 

But according to the report, only the China-based Kinetic Development Group
has come to the party, with a R16-billion promise of a ferrochrome smelter
on the southern site, once township development on the site is approved, and
subject to EIA approvals.

 

If investors do come, one of the biggest questions will be: where is the
water going to come from in this semi-arid area?

 

The MMSEZ has approached the Water Services Authority (Vhembe) and the
catchment management agency (the Department of Water and Sanitation, DWS) in
the region to determine whether they have capacity, either from treated or
raw water, to supply the developments.

 

According to the report, Vhembe agreed to provide the MMSEZ with some of its
allocation for raw water to kickstart development on the northern site. The
DWS said treated water could be brought from Zimbabwe by pipeline for the
future development of the site.

 

"For the south, a few boreholes were drilled in order to start the
development of the site. For further development, a pipeline needs to be
built to connect to the bulk pipeline from Zimbabwe. Furthermore, two dams
are earmarked to be constructed in future to specifically provide water to
the site as it grows," the report says.

 

According to the report, the MMSEZ has now implemented a "turnaround plan"
including a review of the design of roads and stormwater. A division of the
Industrial Development Corporation has been appointed as implementing agent,
with four professional engineers assigned to the MMEZ full-time.
Construction on the first projects will start in September, the report says.

 

This article is published in association with the Limpopo
Mirror/Zoutpansberger.

 

Read the original article on GroundUp.

 

 

 

 

 

South Africa: Loan Company Exploited Social Grant Beneficiaries, Court Rules

JDG Trading sold disability or retrenchment insurance to people who were
already disabled or unemployed

 

An insurance product infringes on the rights of social grant beneficiaries,
the Gauteng High Court has ruled.

The product offered disability and retrenchment insurance as part of a
bundle. But many clients, especially social grant beneficiaries, were
already disabled or unemployed.

Because they would never be able to fully benefit from the insurance, the
product is unreasonable.

The high court in Johannesburg has declared that it is unreasonable to offer
social grant beneficiaries insurance for disability and retrenchment if they
are already disabled or unemployed.

 

 

An insurance product offered by credit provider JDG Trading included cover
for disability and retrenchment. But disabled and unemployed clients, mostly
social grant beneficiaries, would never be able to make a claim for
disability or retrenchment.

 

The court ruled in May that this exploited social grant beneficiaries who
took out loans from JDG Trading and infringed on their constitutional right
to social assistance.

 

Read the judgment here.

 

JDG Trading offers loans to social grant beneficiaries for household goods
and furniture. When a customer signs up for a loan, they are required to
insure the loans. They can purchase insurance from JDG Trading directly or
from another provider.

 

Because JDG Trading's insurance bundle included cover for disability and
retrenchment, and many of its clients are already disabled or unemployed,
the National Credit Regulator took JDG Trading to the National Credit
Tribunal, arguing that the insurance policy was unreasonable and therefore
against the National Credit Act.

 

 

The National Credit Tribunal ruled in favour of JDG Trading. The regulator
then took the matter to the high court.

 

The regulator argued in court that by offering cover for retrenchment and
disability to unemployed or disabled people, JDG Trading made customers
assume a risk that was unreasonable.

 

JDG Trading was using these customers, who could not fully benefit from the
policy, to subsidise others who could, the regulator argued.

 

Black Sash, represented by the Centre for Applied Legal Studies, joined as a
friend of the court. They argued that the insurance policy particularly
affected social grant beneficiaries and therefore infringed on the
constitutional right of access to social security and social assistance.

 

Black Sash submitted expert evidence from an actuary to demonstrate the
impact on customers.

 

But JDG Trading argued that its policy was not unreasonable because
consumers were not obliged to sign up for its insurance and were free to
obtain the insurance elsewhere.

 

JDG Trading argued that the regulator and Black Sash had taken a
"paternalistic approach" and failed to provide any evidence of consumers who
misunderstood the policy's provisions at the time they signed up or had been
deceived. They said that their product was affordable and convenient,
thereby enabling greater access to credit.

 

Judges Shaida Mohamed and Judge Khashane Manamela of the Gauteng High Court
in Johannesburg agreed with Black Sash and the regulator that the policy was
unreasonable.

 

The consumers in this case belonged to a marginalised group who are
dependent on social grants for their existence, the judges said. Because the
insurance policy was offered to the consumer at the point of sale it was
unlikely they had time to consider it properly.

 

JDG Trading had conceded that this class of consumers could never have made
use of the policy and therefore it was clear they were cross-subsidising
younger consumers who could benefit from the policy.

 

Pensioners would not knowingly sign up for a disadvantageous policy, the
judges said. There was no option to exclude the disability or retrenchment
cover from the bundle.

 

By placing an unfair burden on a vulnerable segment of society, the
insurance product was at odds with the goals of the National Credit Act,
which aimed to make credit more accessible and combat inequitable and
discriminatory practices to this end, the court said.

 

The appeal was therefore upheld with each party to pay their own costs.

 

Read the original article on GroundUp.

 

 

 

 

Kenya: Air France Deploys Airbus A350 to Paris-Nairobi Route

Nairobi — Air France has deployed the Airbus A350-900 on its Paris-Nairobi
route, boosting seat capacity by 16% and reinforcing its commitment to
modernising its African operations.

 

The aircraft replaces the Boeing 787-9 previously flying the route. The
switch comes amid growing demand for business and leisure travel between
Kenya and Europe.

 

The A350-900 made its inaugural flight to Nairobi on Monday, landing at Jomo
Kenyatta International Airport. This marks a milestone in Air France's
regional expansion and broader fleet renewal strategy.

 

"This aircraft brings about 16% more seats to Kenya, enabling us to meet
growing demand for Paris and Europe as destinations," said Joris Holtus,
General Manager for East and Southern Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana at Air
France-KLM.

 

 

The A350 offers more comfort, greater capacity, and reduced fuel
consumption. Compared to older models, it uses up to 25% less fuel, aligning
with Air France's goal to cut emissions and improve efficiency.

 

Holtus noted that the deployment supports two major goals: premiumisation
and decarbonisation. The A350 features business, premium economy, and
economy cabins designed for elevated passenger experience.

 

It also supports Air France's plan to modernise 80% of its fleet by 2030.
Currently, 25% of its fleet consists of new-generation aircraft, with a
target of 50% by 2025.

 

With 38 A350s already in its fleet, Air France's decision to allocate one to
Nairobi reflects the city's rising status as a key African aviation hub. The
route is now served with three weekly flights.

 

"This move shows our long-term commitment to Africa and Nairobi's pivotal
role in the continent's aviation future," said Hildabeta Amiani, Country
Sales Manager, Kenya.

 

Air France-KLM's regional office, opened in Nairobi in 2023, continues to
drive growth across East Africa. The new aircraft strengthens connectivity
while enhancing environmental performance.

 

According to IATA, the global airline industry is expected to carry 4.99
billion passengers by the end of 2025--a record high and 9.4% above
pre-pandemic levels.

 

This growth comes despite a global economic slowdown. Africa, in particular,
is seeing a strong rebound, with revenue per kilometer up by 13.2% last
year.

 

The A350-900's fuel efficiency--just 2.5 litres per passenger per 100
km--and lower noise emissions (40% quieter than older aircraft) make it
ideal for this era of sustainable aviation.

 

Its design uses 53% composite materials and 14% titanium, contributing to
its lightweight structure. Larger windows, enhanced air pressure, and
adaptive lighting improve passenger comfort and reduce jet lag.

 

Inside, the aircraft features one of the quietest twin-aisle cabins in the
industry, catering to travellers' comfort while reducing its carbon
footprint.

 

Air France's fleet upgrade also includes sustainable practices such as
eco-piloting, onboard recycling, and the elimination of single-use plastics.

 

Read the original article on Capital FM.

 

 

 

Namibia: Green Hydrogen to Raise Namibians' Standard of Living - Planning
Commission

National Planning Commission (NPC) director general Kaire Mbuende says the
government plans to maximise all energy sources to increase Namibians'
standard of living.

 

"Energy is a prerequisite for development and for creating a high standard
of living for our people," he says.

 

Mbuende was speaking during Belgium tech company CMB.TECH Enterprises'
courtesy call to State House on Tuesday.

 

He said the government plants to maximise energy production in green energy,
solar, hydro, green hydrogen, oil and gas and eventually nuclear energy
sources.

 

GREEN HYDROGEN

 

CMB.TECH chief executive Alexander Saverys said the company plans on
investing in the production of green hydrogen and green ammonia due to its
sustainability.

 

"Ships burns diesel and we have to move away from that. That thing in our
view is green hydrogen for smaller ships and ammonia for big ships," he
said.

 

 

CMB.TECH Enterprises is a shipping company based in Antwerp, with 255 ships,
specialising in fleets and containers. It aims to decarbonise its fleeting
commodities.

 

Saverys said this endeavour has, however, proven difficult as 99% of all
ammonia and hydrogen is produced through combustion of coal and gases that
omit carbon dioxide (CO2).

 

Green hydrogen and green ammonia produced from sea water is more
sustainable, he says.

 

Namibia meets the criteria for the company's production capacity due to its
proximity to the sea, its stability and location in Africa.

 

"The important elements are Namibia's proximity to the sea and being in
Africa. Our trade routes bring us to Africa more often due to its population
growth and access to commodities, people and stability," Saverys said.

 

Read the original article on Namibian.

 

 

 

Kenya: Sh2.08bn Salaries Owed to University Staff in 2024 Still Unpaid,
Audit

Nairobi — A new government audit has revealed that Sh2.08 billion in
salaries owed to university staff in the 2023/2024 financial year remains
unpaid, exposing significant financial and ethical lapses within public
institutions.

 

The audit, covering the year ending June 30, 2024, shows that 2,066 public
officers--mostly drawn from public universities--did not receive their
salaries during the period.

 

The total amount owed to these staff members was Sh2.49 billion, with
university personnel accounting for 84 percent of the outstanding pay.

 

According to the report, institutions cited a range of reasons for the
non-payment. Financial constraints were the most common, affecting 1,494
officers (72 percent), while 372 officers (18 percent) had pending
disciplinary cases.

 

Beyond financial mismanagement, the audit exposed worrying gaps in human
resource integrity.

 

 

Out of 168,667 public officers whose documents were reviewed, 859 (0.5
percent) were found to possess fake academic certificates, while another 160
(0.1 percent) had forged professional qualifications.

 

Even more troubling, 24,559 officers (14.6 percent) held unauthenticated
academic documents, and for 143,249 officers (84.9 percent), the
authenticity of their academic papers had not been verified at all.

 

"In regard to high standards of professional ethics, findings revealed
critical gaps in both compliance and enforcement," the audit report stated.

 

Disciplinary action was taken against 744 of the 1,019 officers found with
fraudulent documents. However, 79 cases (7.8 percent) remain under
investigation, and 15 officers (1.5 percent) have faced no action to date.

 

The audit's revelations are expected to prompt heightened scrutiny of
payroll management and hiring practices across public service, particularly
in the education sector.

 

Read the original article on Capital FM.

 

 

 

 

Rwanda: Central Bank Explains New Changes in Foreign Currency Use

The National Bank of Rwanda has shed light on recent changes in the
regulation governing foreign exchange operations in the country.

 

The changes are provided for under a 2025 regulation amending that of 2022
governing foreign exchange operations in Rwanda. The new rule was published
in the Official Gazette on May 30.

 

ALSO READ: A look at new penalties for illegal foreign currency operations
in Rwanda

 

Godfrey Mugabe, Manager, Financial Sector Legal and Regulations at the
National Bank of Rwanda, told The New Times that the amendment introduces
new provisions on permitted payments for imports or exports, and specific
pecuniary sanctions.

 

"These changes were informed by persistent non-compliance and the need for
clearer enforcement tools," he said.

 

Payment in foreign currency permitted for exports and imports

 

In the 2022 regulation, article 20 provided that all payments to
non-residents and all transfers of funds by residents to or from abroad must
be made through the authorised intermediaries or the central bank.

 

 

The new regulation introduces a provision permitting payment in foreign
currency for exported or imported goods or services.

 

"The rationale is to facilitate legitimate cross-border trade transactions,"
Mugabe said.

 

Higher monetary sanction for repeat offenders, and differently penalising
foreign currency pricing and transactions

 

The 2022 regulation provided that any person who sells or prices goods or
services in foreign currency in its violation was punishable by the seizure
and confiscation of the amount involved in that transaction, and the
confiscated amount would be credited on a public treasury account.

 

 

While the sanction was the same for unauthorised pricing and transacting in
foreign currency in that regulation, the amendment sets different sanctions.

 

As per the amended regulation, any person who prices or transacts in foreign
currency without the central bank's permission commits an administrative
fault, and the central bank imposes on them a corresponding pecuniary
(monetary) sanction.

 

For pricing in foreign currency, the penalty is Rwf5 million for the first
instance - when they commit the fault for the first time; and Rwf10 million
for the second instance and above.

 

Regarding transacting in foreign currency, the penalty is 50 per cent of the
transacted amount for the first instance; and 100 per cent of the transacted
amount for the second instance and above.

 

"The changes aim to ensure deterrence by introducing more proportionate and
impactful penalties that reflect the nature and scale of the violation,"
Mugabe said.

 

 

"Pricing in foreign currency is a preliminary act, while actual transactions
in foreign currency have a larger economic impact. Hence, the new regulation
imposes heavier penalties on transactions to reflect their higher risk and
harm," he observed.

 

Why a higher penalty for foreign currency auction?

 

As per the new regulation, any person who calls to auction or who is
involved in a foreign currency auctioning commits an administrative fault,
and the Central Bank imposes on him or her a pecuniary sanction equivalent
to 50 per cent of the total auctioned amount.

 

In the previous regulation, a licensed intermediary or any person involved
in a foreign exchange auctioning was liable to a pecuniary sanction
equivalent to 1 per cent of the total auctioned amount.

 

"The major changes were driven by the need to close regulatory gaps, enhance
enforcement effectiveness, and address market behaviors that undermined the
use of the Rwandan franc in domestic transactions," Mugabe said.

 

ALSO READ: Landlords behind weakening franc

 

Responding to observed issues

 

During an X space held by the central bank on June 17, Mugabe said that the
amendment was, among others, informed by the findings of inspection that was
carried out on foreign exchange operations in Kigali, Rubavu, Rusizi, and
other prime areas of the country.

 

"The usage of foreign currencies in in local markets in our daily life kind
of contradicted that mandate [to make sure that the Rwandan franc is
integral, solid and trustworthy]. It put a lot of pressure onto our domestic
currency," said citing "hiking of prices on the market, instability in the
in the purchase of certain commodities like rentals."

 

Meanwhile, the central bank clarified that transactions conducted by hotels,
casinos, travel and tourism agencies, duty-free shops, and international
schools when dealing with non-residents can be done in foreign currencies -
because of the nature of the entities' business - based on the directive of
2023.

 

During the X space, Theogene Muhoza, Manager, Foreign Exchange Supervision
at the National Bank of Rwanda said that the rationale of the new regulation
was to enforce the previous directives on FX transactions basically by
sanctioning malpractices on FX market.

 

"So, I would say that this new regulation that we are talking about is meant
to clarify rules on foreign exchange operations including permitted and
prohibited activities but also penalties for violation," he said.

 

Read the original article on New Times.

 

 

 

Rwanda: Kigali's Smart Street-Cleaning Revolution Driven By Innovation and
Dignity

Kigali's reputation as one of Africa's cleanest cities is getting a
high-tech upgrade. In an effort to modernise the way the capital maintains
its spotless streets, the City of Kigali has introduced a smart
street-cleaning truck.

 

ALSO READ: City of Kigali introduces modern road cleaning technology

 

It is equipped with advanced technology to sweep and wash roads more
efficiently - without replacing the human workers who have long been the
backbone of the city's sanitation efforts.

 

The truck, which began operating this week, uses a combination of vacuum and
pressure systems to clean tarmacked roads without raising dust.

 

 

It is designed to collect debris and dirt into an internal tank, which is
later emptied automatically at designated waste points.

 

According to officials, this is just one of several steps the city is taking
to adopt greener, technology-driven solutions in public service delivery.

 

"This is a truck purchased by the City of Kigali, equipped with modern
technologies to sweep and scrub dirty tarmacked roads," said Emma Claudine
Ntirenganya, head of Public Relations and Awareness at the City of Kigali.

 

Complementing, not replacing, human effort

 

The truck operates primarily at night, beginning at midnight when traffic
has eased, allowing for a more efficient cleaning process.

 

Equipped with rotating brushes and suction systems, it focuses on roads
where grime and scattered waste tend to accumulate, especially during peak
hours.

 

 

But as Ntirenganya is quick to point out, the new system is not intended to
replace the city's existing workforce of street cleaners.

 

Ntirenganya says the current street cleaning staff are not going anywhere.
"This truck is meant to support their work, and they, in turn, will support
it," she said.

 

Indeed, while the smart truck covers open tarmac and road surfaces, it does
not handle flower beds, drainage ditches, or sidewalks. These areas will
continue to rely on manual cleaning.

 

The truck also includes pressure hoses that can wash its own tires and
exterior after operating in dirty areas, ensuring it does not carry filth
into cleaner zones.

 

"We're building a complementary system where people and technology work hand
in hand," Ntirenganya said.

 

>From brooms to buttons: A cleaner's perspective

 

For street cleaning crews, the introduction of the truck is seen not as a
threat, but as a welcome addition to their demanding work.

 

Odette Mukakizima, a street cleaner, told The New Times during an interview
at her Kimironko workstation that the new technology helps workers feel
recognised, valued, and supported.

 

"It's not every part of the road that can be cleaned by machines. But this
kind of support means we don't have to struggle as much, especially with
heavy debris," she said. "As long as we are still here, we'll do our part."

 

She noted that the smart truck could significantly reduce physical strain
for workers, particularly those who suffer from recurring health issues
related to manual street cleaning, such as back pain from heavy lifting and
respiratory problems caused by prolonged exposure to dust.

 

ALSO READ: Bonds & Brooms: Acknowledging the women behind the clean streets
of Kigali through photography

 

A public health boost

 

Medical experts have long warned about the health risks faced by street
cleaners and waste handlers -many of whom can spend hours exposed to dust,
pollutants, and pathogens.

 

Dr. Kenneth Ruzindana, a consultant physician at the University Teaching
Hospital of Kigali (CHUK), said innovations like the smart cleaning truck
are a step in the right direction.

 

"Reducing dust and airborne debris not only improves the health of the
workers but also benefits pedestrians, commuters, and the general public,"
he said.

 

Dr. Ruzindana emphasised that while the use of Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE), and regular medical check-ups remain vital safeguards for sanitation
workers, the shift toward mechanisation offers a more sustainable solution
for minimising health risks.

 

By reducing workers' direct exposure to dust, waste, and other hazardous
materials, mechanised cleaning systems can help prevent common occupational
illnesses such as bronchitis, dermatitis, and gastrointestinal infections.

 

"The fewer contaminants we release into the air, the healthier the city," he
said.

 

A city thinking ahead

 

The smart truck is part of a broader initiative by the City of Kigali to
integrate technology into urban management -particularly in sectors like
waste collection, traffic control, and water management.

 

Recent efforts include the launch of a Smart Waste Management Pilot Project
in partnership with the Ministry of ICT and Innovation and the Rwanda
Information Society Authority (RISA).

 

This pilot aims to install solar-powered smart waste bins that notify
authorities when they are full, helping to reduce overflow and improve
collection schedules.

 

ALSO READ: CoK urges investors to implement smart city solutions as
population grows

 

But for Ntirenganya and her team, the introduction of the new cleaning truck
is more than just a technological upgrade - it's a visible, tangible sign
that innovation can enhance public services without displacing the people
behind them.

 

To them, the smart truck represents progress that supports workers rather
than replaces them - proving that technology can be used to serve
communities while preserving jobs and improving working conditions.

 

"The idea is not to eliminate jobs, but to enhance how we deliver services
to our people," she said.

 

As Kigali continues to grow and urbanise, the city is investing not only in
modern technology but also in inclusive systems that prioritise both
efficiency and human dignity.

 

These efforts aim to ensure that progress in urban cleanliness is achieved
without compromising the well-being of the workers who keep the city running
- making innovation a tool for empowerment, not exclusion.

 

Read the original article on New Times.

 

 

 

Rwanda: Cabo Delgado - Rwandan Forces Donate Fishing Boat to Locals

Rwanda Security Forces operating in Cabo Delgado Province, Mozambique, on
June 18 donated a fishing boat to locals in Palma District. The boat was
donated to Mashalla Cooperative of fishers based in Palma District.

 

ALSO READ: Mozambique, Rwanda military officials discuss operations in Cabo
Delgado

 

The Palma District Administrator, João Buchili, expressed heartfelt
appreciation for the continued support and cooperation from the Rwandan
Security Force, stating that it is a demonstration of true partnership.

 

 

"Rwanda Security Force is not only helping us keep our communities safe, but
they are also working with us in restoring livelihoods and hope," said
Buchili.

 

On behalf of the Commander of the Rwanda Security Force, ACP Francis Muheto,
the Police Component Sector North Commander, emphasized the RSF's
commitment, that it is not only to ensuring peace and security in the Cabo
Delgado, but also contributing to the community resilience and
socio-economic stability.

 

"This boat is a symbol of our shared commitment to rebuilding lives, by
supporting local livelihoods like fishing, we aim to reinforce peace through
development and it is a gesture of solidarity and support towards human
security and local economic recovery," said Muheto.

 

The members of Mashalla Cooperative commended Rwandan forces for restoring
security in the region, where locals resumed economic activities.

 

The donated fishing boat is expected to boost the cooperative's capacity,
enhance productivity, and improve income for local families who rely on
artisanal fishing as a primary source of livelihood.

 

This initiative is part of broader civil-military and community policing
cooperation efforts undertaken by the Rwanda Security Force in Cabo Delgado,
where they continue to play a key role in stabilizing and supporting
recovery efforts after years of conflict and displacement caused by Islamic
State-linked insurgents.

 

At Maputo's request, Kigali deployed troops in July 2021 to help fight
Islamist terrorists who had, for several years, destabilised Cabo Delgado, a
region located on the coast of the Indian Ocean.

 

Barely two weeks after deployment, Rwandan and Mozambican forces were
circling major bases of the terrorists, capturing them.

 

Read the original article on New Times.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 


 


 Invest Wisely!

Bulls n Bears 

 

Cellphone:         +263 71 944 1674 | +27 79 993 5557 

Email:                <mailto:bulls at bullszimbabwe.com>
bulls at bullszimbabwe.com

Website:             <http://www.bullszimbabwe.com> www.bullszimbabwe.com 

Blog:                  <http://www.bullszimbabwe.com/blog>
www.bullszimbabwe.com/blog

Twitter (X):        @bullsbears2010

LinkedIn:           Bulls n Bears Zimbabwe

Facebook:           <http://www.facebook.com/BullsBearsZimbabwe>
www.facebook.com/BullsBearsZimbabwe



 

 

 


 

INVESTORS DIARY 2025

 


Company

Event

Venue

Date & Time

 


 

 

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

 


Companies under Cautionary

 

 

 


 

 

 

 


CBZH

GetBucks

EcoCash

 


Padenga

Econet

RTG

 


Fidelity

TSL

FMHL

 


 

 

 

 


 <mailto:info at bulls.co.zw> 

 


 

 


DISCLAIMER: This report has been prepared by Bulls ‘n Bears, a division of
Faith Capital (Pvt) Ltd for general information purposes only and does not
constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or
subscribe for any securities. The information contained in this report has
been compiled from s believed to be reliable, but no representation or
warranty is made or guarantee given as to its accuracy or completeness. All
opinions expressed and recommendations made are subject to change without
notice. Securities or financial instruments mentioned herein may not be
suitable for all investors. Securities of emerging and mid-size growth
companies typically involve a higher degree of risk and more volatility than
the securities of more established companies. Neither Faith Capital nor any
other member of Bulls ‘n Bears nor any other person, accepts any liability
whatsoever for any loss howsoever arising from any use of this report or its
contents or otherwise arising in connection therewith. Recipients of this
report shall be solely responsible for making their own independent
investigation into the business, financial condition and future prospects of
any companies referred to in this report. Other  Indices quoted herein are
for guideline purposes only and d from third parties.

 


 

 


 (c) 2025 Web:  <http://www.bullszimbabwe.com> www.bullszimbabwe.com Email:
<mailto:bulls at bullszimbabwe.com> bulls at bullszimbabwe.com Tel: +27 79 993
5557 | +263 71 944 1674

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

-------------- next part --------------
An HTML attachment was scrubbed...
URL: <http://listmail.bulls.co.zw/pipermail/bulls/attachments/20250619/4d3ab8e4/attachment-0001.html>
-------------- next part --------------
A non-text attachment was scrubbed...
Name: image001.png
Type: image/png
Size: 9458 bytes
Desc: not available
URL: <http://listmail.bulls.co.zw/pipermail/bulls/attachments/20250619/4d3ab8e4/attachment-0002.png>
-------------- next part --------------
A non-text attachment was scrubbed...
Name: image002.jpg
Type: image/jpeg
Size: 29359 bytes
Desc: not available
URL: <http://listmail.bulls.co.zw/pipermail/bulls/attachments/20250619/4d3ab8e4/attachment-0003.jpg>
-------------- next part --------------
A non-text attachment was scrubbed...
Name: image003.jpg
Type: image/jpeg
Size: 29321 bytes
Desc: not available
URL: <http://listmail.bulls.co.zw/pipermail/bulls/attachments/20250619/4d3ab8e4/attachment-0004.jpg>
-------------- next part --------------
A non-text attachment was scrubbed...
Name: image004.png
Type: image/png
Size: 34378 bytes
Desc: not available
URL: <http://listmail.bulls.co.zw/pipermail/bulls/attachments/20250619/4d3ab8e4/attachment-0003.png>
-------------- next part --------------
A non-text attachment was scrubbed...
Name: image005.jpg
Type: image/jpeg
Size: 29361 bytes
Desc: not available
URL: <http://listmail.bulls.co.zw/pipermail/bulls/attachments/20250619/4d3ab8e4/attachment-0005.jpg>
-------------- next part --------------
A non-text attachment was scrubbed...
Name: oledata.mso
Type: application/octet-stream
Size: 65560 bytes
Desc: not available
URL: <http://listmail.bulls.co.zw/pipermail/bulls/attachments/20250619/4d3ab8e4/attachment-0001.obj>