Major International Business Headlines Brief ::: 13 October 2025

[Bulls n Bears]

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Major International Business Headlines Brief :::  13 October  2025 

 


                                                                                  

 


 <mailto:info at bulls.co.zw> 

 


 

 


 

ü  Africa at the Digital Crossroads - Why Ghana Must Lead a Sovereign AI Future

ü  Kenya: CS Ruku Launches Nationwide Crackdown On Corrupt HR Officers Over Payroll, Promotions and Tax Fraud

ü  Kenya Embraces Stablecoins for Faster Global Trade

ü  Nigeria: 6th Coronation Anniversary - Lgwe of Abala Appeals to DTSG for Access Roads, Development

ü  Nigeria: Wike Warns Against Sabotage of 'Light Up Abuja' Project

ü  Kenya: Kisumu, UNDP Partner to Transform Disaster Management Through Drone Technology

ü  Liberia: National Road Fund Donates Road Maintenance Equipment to Internal Affairs Ministry in Lofa

ü  Liberia: 'Integrity Is Non-Negotiable', Finance Minister Challenges Staff to Lead With Accountability

ü  Rwanda: Why Online Auction for Rwanda's Best Coffee Matters

ü  Botswana: Zimbabwe Firms Reap New Leads, Partnerships At Botswana Expo

ü  Malawi: Mtambo Dismisses Social Media Claims Linking Him to Planned Anti-Govt Protests

ü  South Africa: In Northern Kwazulu-Natal, Villagers Have to Fix Their Own Roads and Drains

ü  Kenya Pushes for Stronger Sharia-Compliant Trade

ü  Rwanda: Inside Rwanda's Plan to Cut Power Waste From Inefficient Fridges

ü  Nigeria's Public Debt Rises to N152.4tn By June 2025 - DMO

 


 <mailto:info at bulls.co.zw> 

 


Africa at the Digital Crossroads - Why Ghana Must Lead a Sovereign AI Future

Africa is once again at the center of a global scramble. This time not for rubber, gold, or oil, but for data. Every mobile payment, social media post, satellite image, and biometric enrollment enriches the digital empires of Silicon Valley, Shenzhen, and other power centers. The pattern is hauntingly familiar: Africa supplies the raw input, but the wealth it creates flows elsewhere.

 

But the stakes are higher now. Data is not just a new oil; it is memory, intelligence, and power. It shapes how governments deliver services, companies build products, and societies imagine the future. If Africa does not act deliberately, the digital century will repeat the economic and political dispossession of the colonial era, only now encoded in algorithms and cloud platforms instead of shipping contracts and gunboats.

 

 

 

Ghana, a nation that once ignited panafrican liberation under Kwame Nkrumah, is uniquely positioned to break this cycle. Our choices in the next decade will determine whether Africa remains a testing ground and data mine or becomes a sovereign architect of artificial intelligence. The question is not just about connectivity but about power: who owns the cables, who governs the clouds, and who writes the rules that will define the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

 

 

The Digital Colonialism We Cannot Ignore

 

Around the world, major powers are racing to shape artificial intelligence to fit their interests. The European Union has finalized its AI Act, a sweeping framework for advancing "trustworthy AI." The United States has unveiled its AI Action Plan to secure technological leadership and bolster domestic resilience. China, advancing its philosophy of a shared future, is building an AI ecosystem rooted in sovereignty and strategic autonomy.

 

Meanwhile, Africa, home to 1.4 billion people and one of the richest data footprints in the world, is mostly absent from these decision-making tables. Our engagement in global AI governance remains limited, reactive, and heavily shaped by external agendas.

 

 

Ghana's own experience shows how fragile our digital foundations remain. The March 2024 failure of three undersea cables (WACS, MainOne, and ACE) plunged West and Central Africa into a near-blackout, crippling banks, hospitals, telecoms, and public services. Even Accra's state-of-the-art data centers, built with foreign capital and Huawei technology, could not insulate us. Our digital economy still leans heavily on Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure, placing critical data under U.S. and other foreign jurisdictions (World Bank Digital Economy Report, 2024).

 

In a striking global parallel, South Korea faced a catastrophic data center fire in late September 2025, which destroyed a battery array inside the National Information Resources Service (NIRS) data center in Daejeon. The blaze reportedly wiped out 858 terabytes of government data, some of which appears unrecoverable, because officials lacked adequate backups. The incident, which halted public services and exposed the vulnerability of centralized data holdings even in advanced economies, underscores why nations cannot afford weak infrastructure or external dependency in this domain. (Source: Data Center Dynamics)

 

 

This is what digital colonialism looks like: infrastructure that sits on African soil but remains governed elsewhere. Proximity without control. Connectivity without sovereignty. The blackout was not just a technical failure. It was a strategic warning about how dependency can paralyze entire economies overnight.

 

To avoid becoming a permanent digital dependency zone, Ghana and Africa, more broadly, must rethink their approach to ownership, infrastructure, and governance. Digital sovereignty today is not just about being online. It is about controlling the entire stack: cables, satellites, servers, software, legal frameworks, and the global standards that shape them.

 

Ghana's Digital Ambition: Promise and Precarity

 

To its credit, Ghana has not been passive. The Digital Ghana Agenda has expanded broadband access, strengthened cybersecurity policies, and introduced the Data Protection Act (2012), one of the continent's earliest attempts to regulate personal data. The World Bank-Funded Ghana Digital Acceleration Project aims to deepen access to digital tools and modernize the regulatory environment.

 

Most ambitiously, Ghana's National AI Strategy (2023–2033) sets a vision to train citizens in AI skills, promote responsible AI use across key sectors like agriculture, health, finance, and education, and position Ghana as a continental hub for ethical and inclusive AI. Grassroots innovation is also thriving: the Ghana NLP Project builds open-source language models in Twi, Ewe, Ga, and Dagbani, helping preserve culture and enabling AI that actually speaks Ghana's languages. These efforts prove that sovereign innovation is possible when African technologists lead.

 

Yet these gains remain fragile because they are deeply entangled with external power. Google's AI Research Center in Accra develops useful tools, from flood prediction models to local language processing, but it is built on proprietary systems governed under U.S. law. Starlink's expansion improves connectivity but shifts control over internet routing and data governance to a private, foreign-owned satellite network. Even the headline-grabbing $1 billion UAE-backed AI and tech hub in Ghana's Free Zones may operate outside the country's full regulatory reach, creating enclaves of innovation divorced from national oversight.

 

This dependence creates a dangerous paradox: Ghana is advancing its digital agenda, and at the same time, reinforcing structural dependency. Ambition without autonomy risks entrenching a new form of economic subordination, one where Africa fuels the global AI economy but does not govern or profit from it.

 

To change course, Ghana must not only build infrastructure, but own and govern it. Data localization alone is insufficient if servers are controlled by foreign companies, and cloud platforms are subject to foreign laws. True sovereignty requires investment in African-owned satellites, diverse undersea routes, and locally controlled cloud systems. It also demands technical capacity: engineers, cybersecurity experts, and data scientists able to maintain and defend this infrastructure.

 

Africa's Minerals, Africa's Data: A Shared Struggle

 

The digital revolution rides on African soil. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where I was born, supplies roughly 70% of the world's cobalt, a critical input for AI servers, smartphones, and electric vehicles (USGS, 2025). Alongside cobalt come coltan, copper, and lithium. These minerals are essential for batteries, chips, and the vast cloud infrastructure powering today's algorithms. They underpin everything from electric buses to the GPUs that train large language models.

 

Yet, for decades, this mineral wealth has translated into neither prosperity nor autonomy. Instead, it has fueled war economies, corporate profiteering, and ecological devastation. Global supply chains move Congolese cobalt through complex networks of intermediaries, often obscuring child labor, unsafe mining conditions, and violent land dispossession. Reports such as "The Congolese Fight for Their Own Wealth" from the Tricontinental Institute for Social Research document how foreign corporations and geopolitical interests continue to dominate extraction, while Congolese communities remain impoverished and displaced.

 

This history matters deeply for Africa's digital future. As the global economy shifts from natural resources to data resources, the logic of exploitation risks simply migrating from mines to servers. If Africa could not achieve justice in cobalt and lithium, how will it achieve it in data, an even more intangible and easily expropriated resource? Data, like minerals, is extracted under the promise of progress, yet it often leaves behind dependency and disempowerment.

 

We are already seeing the contours of this digital scramble for Africa. Vast amounts of user-generated data, mobile payment records, and biometric information feed the machine learning systems of Silicon Valley and Shenzhen. At the same time, Africa contributes little to global AI governance, and much of the continent's infrastructure, from undersea cables to cloud data centers, remains foreign-owned or foreign-controlled. Even when data resides physically in Accra or Lagos, its governance is often tied to U.S. or Chinese legal frameworks via platforms like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure.

 

The consequences are profound. Without control over both physical supply chains (minerals) and digital supply chains (data), Africa risks becoming the raw material base of the Fourth Industrial Revolution just as it was in the first. A just AI future cannot be built on the blood of Congolese miners or the invisible labor of African data annotators. It requires a fundamental break from extractive economic patterns, one that links resource justice to digital sovereignty.

 

For Ghana, this means looking beyond connectivity to ownership and governance. Just as the DRC's cobalt has powered global technologies without lifting Congolese communities, Ghana must avoid becoming a passive supplier of data and talent to foreign AI monopolies. Sovereignty demands more than cables and cloud servers; it demands control of the entire infrastructure stack, from satellites to legal jurisdiction, as well as the right to set the terms on how Africa's digital assets are used.

 

A truly decolonial approach ties these struggles together: from mines to models. It insists that the minerals fueling GPUs and batteries be mined ethically and benefit African people, and that the data training those GPUs be governed under African laws and values. It connects environmental justice in Congo's copper and cobalt belts to algorithmic fairness and equitable AI development across Africa. It sees sovereignty as a continuum, physical and digital, material and virtual.

 

Ghana's Path to AI Sovereignty

 

Early, sweeping regulation can freeze a nascent AI sector before it matures. Countries that now lead in artificial intelligence, notably China and the United States, did not begin with comprehensive AI laws; they first built strong industries and shaped regulation through lived experience. China's 2022 action against the ride-hailing giant Didi over data security violations is a striking example: instead of regulating in the abstract, it used a real case to refine and enforce rules that fit its fast-growing ecosystem.

 

Ghana should take note and adopt strategic sequencing: build first, regulate from evidence. This means strengthening the backbone of the digital economy, expanding undersea and terrestrial networks, investing in African-owned satellites, and developing sovereign cloud and data centers to keep control over critical infrastructure. It also means enforcing the existing Data Protection Act (2012) while actively nurturing a home-grown AI industry before passing sweeping AI legislation. Ghana can learn from others by using practical case studies and pilot interventions to craft rules responsive to local realities rather than imported frameworks. At the same time, the country must invest in local language datasets, back community-driven AI projects, and support Ghanaian-led startups so innovation is rooted in local culture and needs.

 

But building capacity at home is only part of the equation. Ghana must also claim a seat where global AI standards and power dynamics are being shaped. Collaboration with the BRICS AI Center in Shanghai offers a critical opportunity: Ghanaian researchers and startups could access advanced computing resources, join joint research programs, and co-develop tools tailored to African realities. More importantly, it would give Ghana a voice in shaping the ethical and technical norms guiding AI's future, ensuring that the Global South helps write the rules rather than merely adopting those set elsewhere. The July 2025 BRICS Statement on Inclusive and Sustainable AI provides a strong foundation for this vision, aligning with Ghana's long-term sovereignty agenda.

 

Foreign partnerships should also be approached with strategic clarity: Ghana must demand technology transfer, local intellectual property ownership, and co-investment to avoid repeating extractive patterns of the past.

 

Ghana can move beyond being a technology consumer by combining industrial capacity with policy influence and actively shaping global AI standards. It can lead Africa's AI future on its own terms, protect its people's data and dignity, and help define responsible, inclusive, and sovereign AI for the Global South.

 

For policymakers, movement leaders, and citizens, the message is clear: sovereignty is not a gift; it is built. Law by law. Cable by cable. Algorithm by algorithm. The choices we make today will determine whether Africa's data feeds foreign AI monopolies or powers African-led innovation and dignity.

 

Kwame Nkrumah warned that political independence is meaningless without economic freedom. In the digital century, we must add: independence is hollow without data and AI sovereignty. Ghana can, and must, lead this transformation for Africa.

 

Kambale Musavuli is an analyst with the Center for Research on the Congo-Kinshasa, specializing in Central and West African affairs. He is also a Pan African technology and policy strategist and the Founder of Aether Strategies, a strategic advisory firm shaping AI governance and digital self-reliance across Africa. Musavuli advises policymakers in Ghana and the Democratic Republic of Congo on national AI strategies.

 

 

 

 

Kenya: CS Ruku Launches Nationwide Crackdown On Corrupt HR Officers Over Payroll, Promotions and Tax Fraud

Nairobi — The Ministry of Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes has announced a nationwide crackdown targeting human resource officers accused of manipulating government payroll systems and promotion processes.

 

The operation, which begins this week, follows an internal audit that officials say uncovered widespread malpractice, collusion and systemic abuse.

 

Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku said officers found culpable will face immediate dismissal and prosecution. Speaking in Embu over the weekend, he warned that the ministry--working with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and other agencies--will pursue cases at both national and county levels.

 

 

"We have identified disturbing trends where certain HR officials are helping individuals evade taxes and manipulate official records to remain in service illegally," Ruku said. "Those involved will be prosecuted and face the full force of the law."

 

According to the audit, some HR officers unlawfully altered dates of birth in official databases to extend the service of public servants beyond the mandatory retirement age. The report also cites cases where illegal tax exemptions were facilitated for select individuals, leading to revenue losses. In other instances, job groups were allegedly manipulated--placing staff in higher salary grades or awarding rapid promotions without due process--actions the ministry says have inflated the wage bill and undermined morale among compliant employees.

 

Ruku said investigators will prioritise four areas: payroll fraud, ghost workers, irregular promotions and illegal allowances. He added that the ministry will overhaul payroll controls to seal loopholes that have "for years been manipulated to favour a few at the expense of deserving civil servants and taxpayers."

 

 

Parliamentary watchdogs and the EACC are expected to support the effort with inspections and enforcement. Under the plan, HR units will be required to maintain detailed operational records, adopt conflict-of-interest policies and cooperate with forensic reviews of staff files, pension records and promotion histories.

 

Ruku framed the push as part of President William Ruto's broader anti-corruption agenda. "The President is very passionate about the war on corruption, and as Cabinet Secretary, I am fully aligned with that vision. We will clean up the system and restore dignity to public service," he said.

 

The CS also urged public officers to uphold professional standards and the constitutional principles of integrity, transparency and accountability. "The government is coming for you," he warned those engaged in malpractice. "If you are involved in these irregularities, you will lose your job and be prosecuted."

 

Further updates on arrests, suspensions and administrative actions are expected as the multi-agency operation gets underway this week.

 

Read the original article on Capital FM.

 

 

 

 

 

Kenya Embraces Stablecoins for Faster Global Trade

Nairobi — As Kenya continues to position itself as one of Africa's leading innovation hubs, experts say the adoption of digital currencies, particularly stablecoins, is rapidly transforming how individuals and businesses transact across borders.

 

Sharon Tum, East Africa Regional Manager at Yellow Card, a digital assets and treasury management company, explains that stablecoins are digital assets directly backed by real-world currencies such as the US dollar.

 

"These coins, often referred to as cryptocurrencies or digital coins, are issued by different companies. For instance, USDC is issued by Circle and regulated by the U.S. Federal Government, while USDT is issued by Tether," she said.

 

 

Stablecoins are fast becoming among the most preferred digital assets in Kenya and across the continent due to their stability, accessibility, and efficiency in cross-border transactions.

 

 

Tum noted that because these coins are backed by actual assets, it means that for every unit of USDT or USDC in circulation, there is a corresponding U.S. dollar held in reserve, shielding them from the volatility that plagues other cryptocurrencies.

 

Additionally, the coins operate on secure blockchain technology, which enables traceability and reduces the risk of tampering or fraudulent transactions.

 

"They have deep liquidity. They're super accessible. Always available. There are no queues. There are no limits. You can trade as high as you can," Tum said. "They're internationally accepted. A trader in China accepts USDT and USDC quite easily. It has been very attractive to business people because of cross-border payments."

 

 

Unlike the traditional banking system, which often involves high transaction fees and delays, stablecoins offer instant and low-cost transfers regardless of the amount or destination.

 

This advantage has prompted many Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), particularly importers, to leverage stablecoins to pay suppliers in markets like China and Dubai.

 

"It's quite cheap and requires very minimal paperwork. Once you're onboarded, for example, with Yellow Card, the process is very straightforward," Tum said.

 

Yellow Card operates in 24 African countries and allows users to buy, sell, and convert digital assets such as stablecoins into local currency through its app.

 

According to Tum, the platform has more than two million users across Africa, including over 350,000 in Kenya, the majority being young people.

 

"Stablecoins are assets that run on the blockchain," she explained. "They're also referred to as cryptocurrencies or digital coins, and they're issued by various companies. Kenya is one of the biggest countries using digital assets, and Yellow Card is one of the locally registered platforms offering this service. The uptake is quite strong."

 

Toom believes the upcoming Virtual Assets Bill, 2025, currently before Parliament, will be a game-changer for Kenya's digital asset industry as it provides a legal blueprint for regulating the rapidly expanding sector.

 

The Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASP) Bill, 2025 aims to create a framework for companies offering virtual asset services in the country, requiring them to obtain licenses and comply with regulatory standards.

 

Yellow Card has been part of the technical working group that has worked closely with the Parliamentary Committee on Finance since 2023 to help draft and refine the bill to balance innovation and regulation.

 

"As I mentioned before, we met them in Naivasha as part of the technical working group to go through the A to Z about digital assets--the innovation behind them, what other jurisdictions have done. They came up with a very good, progressive bill," she said.

 

As more businesses across Africa embrace stablecoins, Toom predicts that banks and ATMs will soon integrate digital currencies to stay relevant in a fast-changing financial landscape.

 

"There's innovation in how payments are evolving," she said. "I can now have my Bitcoin and use it with a Visa card. Visa and Mastercard are seriously looking into incorporating stablecoins into their payment schemes."

 

Read the original article on Capital FM.

 

 

 

 

 

Nigeria: 6th Coronation Anniversary - Lgwe of Abala Appeals to DTSG for Access Roads, Development

The Igwe of Abala kingdom in Ndokwa East local government area, His Royal Majesty , Obi ( Amb) Fredrick Chukwuloe Egbunkonye the second ( JP), has appealed to the Delta State government , to urgently intervene in the challenges of his people, particularly in the provision of an access road to link up Abala kingdom.

 

Obi Egbunkonye 11, also lamented that due to the deplorable situation, the public schools and primary health centre in the community have remained closed, as teachers and health workers cannot access the community.

 

Speaking while celebrating his 6th year coronation anniversary on Friday October 10th 2025, the Abala monarch said being on the throne of his forefathers has been memorable so far , noting that "as challenges come, so we tackle them".

 

 

The monarch admonished his people to continue to remain law abiding and channel their grievances without recourse to strife, in order to encourage the government of the day to spread more dividends of democracy to Abala kingdom.

 

Obi Egbunkonye appealed to the relevant agencies of government , to come to the aid of his community, describing Aballa as a food basket and capable of delivering all the necessities of the agricultural value chain if given access roads.

 

In her remarks, Her Royal Majesty , the Queen mother of Aballa kingdom, Queen Aderemi Egbunkonye, Onyebuashi 1, sued for peaceful coexistence among the people of Aballa.

 

The Queen mother particularly enjoined the women in the kingdom , to always support their husbands, pledging to always continue to be in the vanguard of their welfare

 

 

Earlier the President General of Aballa Development Union , Chief Sunny Okiah, described the emergence of Igwe Egbunkonye as an omen of peace and development of the kingdom.

 

The Aballa kingdom PG said the monarch is primed for a reign of legacy to his people, adding that "it is not a crime to be ambitious, but it is a crime to be desperate".

 

Former Secretary of Abala traditional Council, L.I. Okiah, the youth Presidents of all Abala clans led by Comrade Isaac Ogbolu and Abala Obodo youth leader , enthusiastic indigenes of the community as well as the women ( Umuada) and youths , trooped out to celebrate with Igwe Egbunkonye 11 on his 6th Coronation anniversary.

 

According to the Onu Eze ( traditional spokesman), of Abala kingdom, Prince Jerry Ezinwa, the ascension of the throne of Igwe Egbunkonye as the paramount ruler of the community , started with the demise of the immediate past Igwe, HRM Obi Fredrick Enubokili Ogbukaa, paving the way for the chalking and traditional on March 15, 2018, and climaxing in the formal presentation to Obi Egbunkonye, of a staff of office , by the then Deputy Governor , Deacon Kingsley Burutu Otuaro, on the 10th October 2019.

 

Read the original article on Vanguard.

 

 

 

 

 

Nigeria: Wike Warns Against Sabotage of 'Light Up Abuja' Project

The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has warned against any attempt to sabotage the recently inaugurated 'Light Up Abuja' project.

 

Wike gave the warning the inauguration of the construction of Collector Road CN2 (Emmanuel I. Ogala Street), which runs from Arterial N16 (Yemi Osinbajo Way) to N20 (Wole Soyinka Way), including Road ILS 5 within Katampe District, Abuja.

 

He explained that the warning was triggered by a recent incident where street lights on the Airport Road failed while President Bola Tinubu was returning to the capital city. The minister said he had already summoned the contractor, CCECC, for an explanation and had been briefed on their efforts.

 

He urged all parties involved not to relent, emphasising his administration's resolve not to be distracted.

 

"I know that all those things are just to distract us and weaken us, but I can assure you that my team and I are very determined.

 

"If there is one project we must achieve, it is the 'Light Up Abuja' project," he said.

 

Wike also explained that the road project was part of a major infrastructure overhaul planned to commemorate President Tinubu's third-year anniversary in office, as well as the FCT's 50th anniversary in 2026.

 

He revealed that the new road was essential to give functional meaning to the recently commissioned Gishiri-Maitama road and interchange. (NAN)

 

Read the original article on Daily Trust.

 

 

 

 

Kenya: Kisumu, UNDP Partner to Transform Disaster Management Through Drone Technology

Kisumu — The County Government of Kisumu has partnered with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to roll out a drone-based risk mapping initiative.

 

This forms part of the broader "Strengthening Urban Resilience to Emerging Disaster and Climate Risks" project, which is funded by the governments of Denmark and South Korea.

 

The initiative, running until March 2026, targets cities facing high disaster risk, particularly those vulnerable to floods, heatwaves, environmental degradation, and conflict.

 

 

 

Kisumu, prone to frequent flooding and rapid urban expansion, stands to benefit significantly from the program.

 

 

As part of the project, the County's Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) is being equipped with advanced tools for real-time risk analysis and disaster response.

 

These include flood-mapping drones and 3D modelling software designed to enhance monitoring of flood-prone areas, assess other potential hazards, and support timely, data-driven decision-making.

 

The drone technology will also enable high-resolution mapping of critical infrastructure and vulnerable settlements, supporting risk-informed urban planning and sustainable development strategies.

 

Already, five technical officers from the county government have undergone professional training and earned their Remote Pilot Licences (RPLs), in compliance with regulations from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA).

 

The training was conducted by Drone Space, a KCAA-accredited institution, and included both classroom instruction and practical on-site sessions.

 

 

The officers, selected for their roles in disaster management, urban planning, and resilience-building,will form Kisumu's first in-house drone mapping and risk analysis team.

 

They will be responsible for continuous data collection, risk monitoring, and geospatial analysis, embedding resilience efforts within the county's technical systems.

 

"The integration of drone technology into our disaster management framework marks a turning point for Kisumu," said Salmon Orimba, the County Executive Committee Member in charge of Disaster Risk Management.

 

Orimba said for the first time, the county government of Kisumu will have real-time visibility of risk-prone areas, enabling faster, evidence-based responses.

 

"This initiative strengthens our ability to protect communities and ensures resilience is built into every aspect of our city's growth," he said.

 

UNDP Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience Specialist Raphael Mutitu noted that the collaboration with Kisumu County reflects a commitment to ensuring innovation and technology to serve people at the local level.

 

"By investing in tools, data, and capacity, we are building a foundation for sustained resilience," he said.

 

The project aligns with Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o's vision of transforming Kisumu into a disaster-resilient county.

 

Last year, the Governor signed on to the Making Cities Resilient 2030 (MCR2030) global initiative led by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), reaffirming the county's commitment to risk-informed development.

 

The introduction of drone mapping into Kenya's urban resilience landscape marks a significant milestone.

 

Kisumu's efforts demonstrate how digital innovation, strategic partnerships, and local capacity-building can safeguard lives, protect infrastructure, and pave the way for a climate-smart, resilient urban future.

 

Read the original article on Capital FM.

 

 

 

 

Liberia: National Road Fund Donates Road Maintenance Equipment to Internal Affairs Ministry in Lofa

VOINJAMA CITY — The National Road Fund (NRF) has donated a consignment of road maintenance tools and equipment to the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) to strengthen community-based efforts aimed at keeping Liberia's rural roads accessible throughout the year.

 

The presentation took place Saturday, October 11, 2025, at the Lofa County Administrative Compound in Voinjama City and was attended by local government officials, including Superintendent J. Lavelah Massaquoi, representatives of the Ministry, and members of community-based organizations (CBOs).

 

Making the presentation on behalf of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Assistant Minister for Technical Services Orondo F. Armah turned over the items to Superintendent Massaquoi, emphasizing the Ministry's commitment to working with local authorities to sustain the country's road network.

 

 

"This initiative demonstrates the Ministry's dedication to working closely with local governments and citizens to sustain Liberia's road network," Armah said. "Community participation remains vital to ensuring that feeder roads remain accessible throughout the year."

 

The donation included cutlasses, rakes, wheelbarrows, safety jackets, rain boots, hand gloves, road signs, and a motorcycle. Officials said the items will enable community-based organizations to carry out routine maintenance, roadside brushing, and minor repairs on feeder roads across Lofa County.

 

Receiving the tools and equipment, Superintendent Massaquoi praised the NRF and the MIA for their continued support to local development initiatives.

 

 

"We are deeply grateful for this donation, which will greatly strengthen the work of our community groups," Massaquoi said. "The CBOs will ensure that these tools are used effectively to maintain and improve road conditions in every district."

 

The Community-Based Organizations Program is part of the government's broader strategy to decentralize road maintenance and enhance rural infrastructure by engaging local communities in the upkeep of roads.

 

Officials from both the NRF and the Ministry described the initiative as a sustainable, people-driven approach to infrastructure management that allows communities to take ownership of vital public assets while improving mobility, local trade, and economic inclusion.

 

Read the original article on Liberian Investigator.

 

 

 

 

Liberia: 'Integrity Is Non-Negotiable', Finance Minister Challenges Staff to Lead With Accountability

Monrovia — Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan has called on employees of the Ministry to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

 

Speaking on Saturday during the Ministry's ongoing 2025-2029 Strategic Plan Retreat, held under the theme "Transforming Priorities Into Strategies: Pathway to Efficient Service Delivery," Minister Ngafuan underscored the critical role the Ministry plays in the nation's development.

 

"We're the ones taking care of the country's bananas, so we can not be monkeys," he said, using a local metaphor to stress the importance of responsible stewardship of national resources.

 

 

Minister Ngafuan reminded staff that the responsibilities of the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) are enormous, and the nation depends on their dedication and diligence.

 

"Our responsibilities are huge. Don't take them lightly," he emphasized. "As custodians of the nation's financial resources, integrity must be non-negotiable."

 

He urged employees to not only protect national resources but also ensure they are allocated efficiently to priorities outlined in the government's ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.

 

According to Minister Ngafuan, building strong systems and structures is essential not only to address wrongdoing but to prevent it, especially through the use of modern technological controls that enhance transparency and accountability.

 

He also called for renewed focus on national development goals, including addressing infrastructure deficits, expanding road networks, and strengthening partnerships with development stakeholders.

 

 

Addressing the issue of public mistrust in government financial management, Minister Ngafuan highlighted the gap between financial reporting and public understanding.

 

"There is serious financial illiteracy among the population," he warned. "Even those of you working diligently are often misjudged because many people don't understand how financial systems and audits work."

 

Citing the recently released 2024 General Auditing Commission (GAC) report, which received a "qualified opinion", the Minister noted that public misinterpretation of such findings is largely due to a lack of awareness about technical auditing processes.

 

To combat misinformation and restore public trust, Minister Ngafuan stressed that accurate and timely reporting must become a core pillar of the Ministry's operations.

 

 

"Liberians expect us to report, not only on time, but accurately," he said. "Our stakeholders, citizens, partners, and institutions rely on us to communicate clearly and consistently."

 

Internally, the Minister also addressed operational inefficiencies, calling for a cultural shift toward faster turnaround times, improved service delivery, and a reduction in reliance on expeditors.

 

"There are too many unapproved delays," he noted. "I want things to move and move fast -- with efficient systems in place."

 

Minister Ngafuan expressed confidence in the capacity of the Ministry to streamline operations and eliminate bottlenecks, provided that the team remains committed and responsive.

 

In closing, he acknowledged the dedication of MFDP staff and encouraged them to remain vigilant and consistent in their efforts.

 

"The government and the people of Liberia are depending on us," he concluded. "Let's rise to the challenge."

 

Speaking earlier, Deputy Minister for Fiscal Affairs Anthony G. Myers, urged staff to take their roles seriously and live up to the expectations of the Liberian people.

 

Minister Myers likened the Ministry to the heart of government, explaining that its responsiveness determines the effectiveness of the entire public service.

 

"The heart pumps blood to every part of the body," he noted. "If the heart slows down, the brain slows down, and the entire system suffers. That's the same way the Ministry of Finance operates. If we delay, the whole government slows down."

 

Deputy Minister for Administration, Bill McGill Jones, described the retreat as "a moment for reflection and recalibration."

 

He commended staff for their continued dedication and perseverance throughout the strategic planning process and acknowledged the hard work of the technical and planning teams.

 

"Today, we gather to reflect on where we are, where we want to go, and how we intend to get there," Hon. Jones said. "This process began with us through internal reviews, the lessons from the last strategic plan, and the new ideas we're bringing to the table. But it will extend beyond us to include our partners, development institutions, and the Liberian society at large."

 

Hon. Jones emphasized that the new strategic plan must capture both the Ministry's internal reforms and its broader contribution to Liberia's national development goals.

 

Hon. Sarah McGill Mulbah, Acting Deputy Minister for Budget and Development Planning, commended the retreat for fostering teamwork and collaboration among departments.

 

"This strategic retreat has given us a chance to know one another beyond titles and office spaces," she said. "For once, we're not just working in silos. We're sharing ideas and building coordination."

 

She underscored that the Ministry's strategic plan must deliver measurable outcomes that directly benefit the Liberian people.

 

The MFDP's strategic retreat brought together the leadership of the Ministry to focus on its long-term strategy, vision, and goals, as well as strategic priority objectives. It marks a critical step in repositioning the Ministry to more effectively lead the implementation of the Government of Liberia's ARREST Agenda over the next five years (2025-2029).

 

Read the original article on Liberian Investigator.

 

 

 

 

Rwanda: Why Online Auction for Rwanda's Best Coffee Matters

Following its stellar performance at a competition and online auction in 2024, Nova Coffee Ltd, a Gicumbi-based company has seen demand for its coffee soar beyond its production capacity, according to its owner, Agnes Mukamushinja.

 

Last year, Nova Coffee's specialty green (unroasted) coffee fetched $71.8 per kilogramme, the highest price in an online auction featuring the 18 top coffees from the inaugural Best of Rwanda Specialty Coffee Competition. The winning price was 14 times higher than the average international coffee price at the time.

 

According to the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB), this sale set a record in Rwanda's coffee history.

 

 

A year later, Mukamushinja says the impact of the competition and online auction is unmistakable, highlighting how such platforms enhance Rwanda's coffee visibility and market reach.

 

"This year, our coffee sales have increased by a third compared to last year. Even so, demand still exceeds our production," she said, projecting that Nova Coffee's total sales will rise by about 80 per cent by the end of the current year. She preferred not to disclose the sales volume (in tonnes) in the media.

 

 

On October 8, a new record was set when a batch from K Organics Ltd, based in Huye District, fetched $88.18 per kilogramme (around Rwf130,000) in the 2025 online auction. This broke the previous $71.8 record set by Nova Coffee in 2024.

 

 

This was the second edition of the Best of Rwanda Specialty Coffee Competition, and again, the winning lot sold for about 14 times the current average export price of Rwandan coffee on international markets, according to NAEB.

 

Overall, more than $304,000 (over Rwf440 million) was generated from the sale of about 11,210 kilogrammes of coffee during the auction, which attracted bidders from countries including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, France, the US, South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Hong Kong, South Africa, Greece, Poland, Germany, and the UK.

 

In comparison, the 2024 edition raised just over $165,000 from 6,600 kilogrammes of coffee.

 

For Evariste Karangwa, representing K Organics Ltd, receiving the highest bid for his coffee was a tremendous honour. He observed that the achievement highlights their dedication to producing high-quality coffee and that the recognition would allow him to reinvest in farming activities, further improving coffee quality and supporting the livelihoods of the community.

 

 

NAEB Chief Operations Officer, Sandrine Urujeni stressed the importance of maintaining high standards to achieve even higher prices at the Best of Rwanda coffee auction, while acknowledging that the previous record price per kilo was surpassed by over $10.

 

"Now we are raising the bar high, so we have to ensure that, net time, we reach at least $100 per kilo.

 

Urujeni praised the competition, now in its second edition, as "a good initiative" and called for continued collaboration and quality improvement across the coffee sector.

 

Why it matters

 

According to Oreste Baragahorana, Chairperson of the Coffee Exporters and Processors Association of Rwanda (CEPAR), the Best of Rwanda competition and its online auction aim to promote Rwandan coffee globally and attract premium buyers.

 

"The main purpose is to showcase Rwanda's coffee on the global stage. Although the quantities sold are small, they represent all Rwandan coffees and serve as a marketing platform," he explained.

 

He added that the auctions encourage buyers to explore other Rwandan coffees, helping boost international demand and overall market presence.

 

"Most of the auction revenue goes back to farmers to motivate them to increase production," Baragahorana said, adding that top producers also benefit by gaining international recognition and attracting more direct buyers who scramble for their coffee.

 

As per NAEB, farmers who supplied coffee (cherries) to processing factories are allocated 75 per cent of the Best of Rwanda auction revenues, while the factories get 25 per cent corresponding the costs they incur in the process.

 

It indicated that Best of Rwanda National Specialty Coffee Competition, an annual event organised by NAEB and partners, aims to showcase the finest coffee produced by farmers, enhancing visibility and access to international markets.

 

Boosting Rwanda's coffee exports

 

Under the fifth Strategic Plan for Agricultural Transformation (PSTA 5), Rwanda aims to increase its annual coffee export revenues from $78.7 million in 2023/24 to $115.5 million by 2029, representing a 46.8 per cent rise.

 

Baragahorana believes the Best of Rwanda Coffee Competition and online auctions will play a role in achieving this target.

 

Read the original article on New Times.

 

 

 

 

Botswana: Zimbabwe Firms Reap New Leads, Partnerships At Botswana Expo

Gaborone — THE Global Expo Botswana 2025 ended on a high note for Zimbabwean companies as they secured new business leads and strategic synergies with the country scooping the top International Exhibitor Award, confirming its exporting capacity and high-quality products and services.

 

A total of 20 local firms drawn from different sectors participated in the neighbouring country's annual expo, which ended in Gaborone on Saturday.

 

The Zimbabwe Pavilion was a hive of activity during the weekly expo as buyers and suppliers visited stands and admired the exhibits.

 

 

 

Botswana President, Duma Boko, also took time from his busy schedule to conduct a brief tour of the Zimbabwe Pavilion on Wednesday and was briefed about the diverse manufacturing, agriculture, services, and technology capabilities offered by Zimbabwe.

 

 

"Several commercial opportunities are now under active negotiation: horticultural produce contracts (fresh fruit and vegetables), FMCG supply agreements, and a range of services contracts," said Ms Nozipho Maphala from ZimTrade at the close of the expo.

 

"In addition to commercial deals, Zimbabwean firms and partners are finalizing partnership agreements for regional distribution of leather products and cosmetics, aimed at scaling market access in Southern Africa.

 

"Capacity-building and technical cooperation are also moving forward -- skills-training services contracts focused on modern farming practices and value-chain strengthening are being discussed to support long-term productivity and export readiness," said Ms Maphala.

 

 

"Overall, the expo delivered meaningful buyer leads, partnership frameworks for distribution, and tangible prospects for skills and services contracts that together position Zimbabwean exhibitors for follow-up negotiations and implementation."

 

In separate interviews, participating company representatives paid tribute to ZimTrade and the Government for supporting them to gain global exposure, saying the platform yielded positive results.

 

Viridi Solutions founder, Mr Collen Moyo, whose young company produces green oils, said he registered good business leads at the expo. "We are now registered in Botswana and there's a lot of demand for our products because they're eco-friendly," he said.

 

"You find that there's a lot of coal mining and other mining that is happening here in Botswana, so they're interested in using our products even in the shops. "There's a lot of demand for our products, so now we are here to finalise those supplies of the varied lubricants, and as you can also see, we have also listened to our customers to really change our packaging to meet their expectations or even to meet the expectations of the end users."

 

 

Riding on the positive feedback from Botswana, the local businesses are also looking forward to expanding to Namibia and other countries.

 

Bulawayo-based entrepreneur and Biltong producer, Ms Nobuhle Ntaisi of Nobby'Snax Company, said the Gaborone expo was an eye-opener and a starting point for big things to come.

 

"It was such an honour being here at the Botswana Global Expo. It was our first time being here, and we've had engagements with local people here," she said.

 

"There's talk of partnerships, there's talk of us bringing our meat to the site. At first, they were quite a bit hostile, saying, 'Are you sure you're bringing your beef here? This is a meat country; we have the best beef. We're like, yeah, we hear you, but we also have the best beef in Bulawayo, in Zimbabwe."'

 

Golden Harvest Honey chief marketing officer, Mr Clever Garirofa, said the expo gave him new clients who showed interest in the business, and most of them were willing to partner with the business in terms of collaborating and expanding beekeeping services into Botswana.

 

"People here liked our honey very much. It is a pure and genuine honey, with no adulterations or additives. They were so happy to enjoy our Zimbabwean honey, and we wish to have more engagements in some of the upcoming events, such as this one," he said.

 

Primrose Kamombe of Kuminda, a company that produces horticulture products including blueberries, said the Global Expo Botswana 2025 had a huge impact on their business.

 

"Our key objective was to establish contact with the regional market and try to get expansion in terms of supplying the regional market as well as expansion of production in Botswana, replicating the model that we have in Zimbabwe to be here in Botswana," she said.

 

"We managed to engage relevant entities here, the likes of the Minister of Agriculture, Directors in Agribusiness, and Directors of the Botswana Investment Trade Center, to appreciate their expectations. I think all in all it has been nice being here and we are hoping to generate good business from the trade fair".

 

Princess Malandu, director at African Crown, which produces natural hair products, said she got great exposure as a small business.

 

"It was a great opportunity to be on this global platform, and we hope to come back again next year. We are going to try our best to market our business more in Botswana because we do feel like we have potential to do well in this country," she said.

 

"A lot of people love our products, and a lot of Batswana are really proud of their African hair, and that's what we stand for as African Crown.

 

"So, we really want to try our best to market as much as we can, get as many distributors to work with us, work with our brand, as brand ambassadors."

 

Mr Ronald Huku of King's Leather, whose company stand was one of the busiest, paid tribute bro ZimTrade and expressed excitement over new business leads.

 

"It was quite eye-opening for us. We have been exposed to so many things, the opportunities that are there in Africa. As King's Leather, our main reason for being here at the Global Expo was to identify opportunities for sustainable partnership with Botswana because we know Africa, we are one, and we have a lot of resources in Africa that are underutilised," he said.

 

"So, we believe that through partnerships, we can have a global voice. We can also export to Africa and other continents such as Asia, America, and others. So, for us at King's Leather, the Global Expo was a good platform for us to learn and to understand how best we can navigate such economic issues."

 

Read the original article on The Herald.

 

 

 

 

Malawi: Mtambo Dismisses Social Media Claims Linking Him to Planned Anti-Govt Protests

Former Minister of Civic Education and National Unity Timothy Mtambo has dismissed as false and misleading social media reports linking him to alleged plans for demonstrations against the newly elected administration of President Peter Mutharika.

 

In a statement released on his official Facebook page, Mtambo described the reports as "completely false and malicious," urging Malawians to ignore such propaganda and instead focus on promoting peace and unity following the conclusion of the 2025 general elections.

 

"I want to categorically state that I am not part of any plan to organize or support demonstrations against the new administration. Such claims are completely false. Malawians must reject misinformation and instead focus on building our country together after peaceful elections," Mtambo said.

 

 

He emphasized that this is a crucial time for national healing and cooperation, calling on citizens to give the new government the space and support it needs to deliver on its campaign promises.

 

 

 

"It is time to unite as a nation and support efforts that advance development, not those that divide us. Let us move forward through democratic, peaceful, and constructive means," he added.

 

A Call for Peace and Democratic Maturity

 

Mtambo, who serves as Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) vice president and leader of the Citizens for Transformation (CFT) movement, said his focus remains on strengthening democracy, promoting civic responsibility, and ensuring accountability through dialogue rather than confrontation.

 

 

He reaffirmed his personal commitment to peace, truth, and good governance, values he said should guide all Malawians regardless of political affiliation.

 

"As someone who has always stood for human rights and justice, I believe our democracy must be protected through peaceful engagement and responsible leadership," Mtambo stated.

 

Background and Context

 

The statement comes amid heightened political tension and speculation following President Mutharika's recent warning that unnamed civil society organizations (CSOs) were allegedly plotting protests to destabilize his administration. Speaking in Mangochi earlier this week, Mutharika claimed to have "intelligence" about groups meeting secretly to plan demonstrations, warning he would "bite" anyone seeking to disturb his rule.

 

The remarks sparked widespread criticism from human rights groups and governance advocates, who accused the President of issuing veiled threats against civic activists and undermining constitutional freedoms.

 

It is believed that Mtambo's name surfaced in the ensuing online chatter, given his prominent role in leading the 2019-2020 mass protests against the then-Mutharika government under the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC). Those protests, which challenged electoral irregularities, eventually contributed to the landmark court-ordered fresh election in 2020 that removed Mutharika from power.

 

However, Mtambo has since moved into formal politics, serving in President Lazarus Chakwera's administration as Minister of Civic Education and National Unity before joining AFORD earlier this year.

 

Political observers say the resurfacing of Mtambo's name in connection with protest rumors may reflect both his past activism and attempts by certain political actors to discredit prominent voices from the previous government.

 

CSOs Urge Calm

 

Meanwhile, several civil society organizations have echoed Mtambo's sentiments, calling for calm and unity. They have urged Malawians to focus on holding the new government accountable through lawful and peaceful means rather than reacting to unverified information circulating online.

 

As the political environment stabilizes after the elections, observers say responsible communication by public figures like Mtambo is vital in preventing misinformation and fostering national reconciliation.

 

Read the original article on Nyasa Times.

 

 

 

 

South Africa: In Northern Kwazulu-Natal, Villagers Have to Fix Their Own Roads and Drains

They can't wait for the government to prepare for the next rainy season

 

Villagers in northern KwaZulu-Natal are preparing for the rainy season by repairing damaged roads, digging trenches, and installing storm drains themselves.

They say government help is slow or absent.

In Abaqulusi and Msinga, infrastructure has not been fixed since the last floods.

In Nquthu, communities are paying for their own repairs to roads.

Most weekends, Sbhamu Ngobese leads local youth in clearing rocks from the D2251 road in Mbewunye, east of Nquthu in northern KwaZulu-Natal. The road has become impassable since heavy rains and flooding eroded the surface, leaving large stones exposed.

 

 

Ngobese says they are trying to prepare for the upcoming rainy season, when more of the road will most likely be eroded.

 

 

 

Over the last several years, heavy rain and floods have damaged homes, roads and infrastructure. But residents say the damage is rarely fixed by the authorities and no preventative measures are taken. As a result, they have resorted to using their own money and time to fix and prevent further damage.

 

Villagers are digging trenches, putting in storm drains and clearing damaged roads in an effort to prepare for the upcoming rainy season.

 

Abaqulusi

 

In Mondlo, a township in Abaqulusi local municipality, residents have tried to redirect rainwater away from roads, housing and bridges.

 

A vehicle bridge, known as C Bridge, connecting two parts of the township over the Goqo River, partly collapsed in February 2025 after heavy flooding. Since then, a large crater has formed along the part of the collapsed bridge. The hole has now become an illegal dumping site and is full of rubbish.

 

 

No government official has given a clear timeline about when the bridge will be fixed, says Sandile Mthembu, a resident of Mondlo. As a result, community members have now begun digging their own trenches along the bridge to redirect water and prevent further damage.

 

About a kilometre away, Matshombeni Bridge, over the same river, floods even in light rain, says Mthembu. Residents have pooled together funds to buy concrete drain pipes to redirect the water, he says, and are trying to clear culverts and storm drains clogged with rubbish and debris.

 

"We've tried over and over again to get the municipality to step in, but, even now, there are no interventions," said Mthembu.

 

 

Asked about plans to prevent future floods, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, provincial MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, said ⁠the department "has a proactive spring and summer season disaster plan" and "is working hard to also ensure that residents are fully aware of the risks this season brings". The department is also building disaster centres in rural areas such as Nkandla, he said.

 

Buthelezi said the disaster management team provided interim relief after floods and it was then up to other departments to take over. He said municipalities have their own disaster funds and only when those are depleted can they request further funding from the department.

 

Ezidulwini

 

In the Ezidulwini area, several homes are still in ruins after the February floods.

 

Thandi Masondo's home was destroyed during one of the storms. She had to send her children to live with family members while she and her husband rent a room on a property down the road.

 

The ward councillor has not come to visit any of the residents since the houses were destroyed, and no one has told them whether they will receive any kind of aid, says Masondo. Without any money to rebuild her home, Masondo has begun collecting material, such as bricks and concrete, from other community members.

 

Khehla Mkhwanazi, Abaqulusi municipality mayor, told GroundUp the municipality set aside R3-million to respond to upcoming disasters, such as flooding and severe weather.

 

The municipality also plans to decentralise its disaster centre and travel to each ward by acquiring two vehicles and prefab buildings that can be used as offices. However, Mkhwanazi said this might not be possible due to budget constraints.

 

In the meantime, residents around Abaqulusi are encouraged to do their own "light maintenance" in their communities when it comes to flood prevention and cleanup, he said. This includes things like helping to patch access roads with stones and keeping their own areas clean to prevent storm drain blockages, he added.

 

Mkhwanazi said COGTA had built several gravel roads at a cost of R5.4-million after this year's floods. He did not say if or when the C Bridge in Mondlo would be repaired.

 

Msinga

 

In Msinga local municipality, Macingwane Secondary School in Kies River was one of six seriously damaged in the February floods. Four prefab classrooms collapsed.

 

When GroundUp visited the school in September, none of the classrooms had been rebuilt.

 

Principal Nhlakanipho Ndebele said as a result, 90 children were sharing a classroom that is meant to have only 40 learners. "The municipality came after the storm and did an inspection. They promised to hand over the findings to the Department of Education, but we're still waiting."

 

Nquthu

 

Unsafe roads in Nquthu have been an issue over the last decade. The local municipality falls under the Mzinyathi District Municipality.

 

Residents in the villages of Ndindi, Mbewunye, Magongoloza and Luvis told GroundUp during protests in June that many roads had not been maintained. At the time, officials from the Nquthu municipality and from Mzinyathi district's transport department promised to send construction vehicles and order gravel.

 

But none of the roads have been fully repaired.

 

When GroundUp visited, water was streaming over Manzahubayo Bridge, which connects two parts of east Nquthu across the Mtamvuna River, though it had not rained for a week. Several elderly men, some with walking sticks, were trying to hop over concrete slabs placed across the bridge. One of them, Mmiseni Ndlela, told Groundup they had asked the municipality to raise the height of the bridge so water can flow underneath.

 

"I am old and my eyesight is not clear. Every time I jump the bridge, someone has to accompany me because it is slippery and I could fall."

 

Villagers said learners had to be dropped before the bridge and had to walk home. "If the bridge is not safe for us as adults, how about scholars who have to cross here daily in different weather conditions?" Ndlela asked.

 

Nquthu communications manager Thokozani Nyandeni said R5.3-million from COGTA disaster funds is being used to fix several roads. The municipality has also been allocated a further R9-million from COGTA through the disaster fund, which is yet to be received, said Nyandeni. This funding will go towards fixing roads and infrastructure damaged by floods.

 

"We are constructing several roads and other infrastructure programs through Municipal Infrastructure Grant, and through internal funding, this year we have allocated over R57 million to maintain and upgrade our infrastructure."

 

A further R8-million from the Human Settlements department will be used to provide housing to disaster-affected families. However, this is not enough, said Nyandeni.

 

In central Nquthu, Lucky Hlatshwayo, Regional Convener of the South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) in the Mzinyathi District, said even before the floods the municipality had failed to maintain and build roads.

 

Hlatshwayo said in many places, roads are now too slippery to use because the gravel surface has washed away.

 

"In Ndindindi, the ambulances told us that our access roads are too slippery and unsafe for them to drive on. In one case, a pregnant woman had an unsafe birth at home because the ambulance could not fetch her," said Hlatshwayo. When it rains, residents leave their cars at houses of neighbours closer to a main road.

 

Most of the drainage pipes in the area are blocked, and in heavy rain, the roads become streams.

 

"We could see our government has forgotten us, and we decided to contribute some cash and fix our roads," said Patrick Motloung, who lives near a blocked stormwater pipe. "We brought rubble, which was removed from the old, demolished building inside Nquthu town and used it to close trenches on our roads."

 

On a road near Ndindindi, when two storm drainpipes collapsed, local villagers came together and fixed the pipes using rocks and concrete. But parts of the roads nearby have been washed away.

 

Residents of Ndindindi and Luvisi told GroundUp that they have also begun hiring private contractors to fix their roads and walkways. They hope this will mean they are better prepared for the next rainy season.

 

Read the original article on GroundUp.

 

 

 

Kenya Pushes for Stronger Sharia-Compliant Trade

Nairobi — Calls to expand Sharia-compliant trade in key sectors such as SMEs, tourism, and real estate dominated discussions as the Second Sharia Compliance and Halal Business Expo 2025 concluded in Nairobi on Sunday.

 

The three-day event, held from October 10 to 12 at BBS Mall in Eastleigh, brought together over 130 exhibitors and drew more than 5,000 visitors from across East Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

 

Exhibitors showcased a wide range of Halal and Sharia-compliant products and services spanning finance, real estate, airlines, food, fashion, and investment.

 

 

 

Speaking during the closing ceremony, Somali Ambassador to Kenya Jabril Abdulle lauded the expo for promoting ethical and faith-based business practices, noting that such initiatives strengthen regional trade ties.

 

 

"Such fairs should be held regularly as they set the stage for sustained trade between Kenya and Somalia, a partnership that continues to flourish," said Abdulle.

 

Ridwan Yusuf, CEO of the Sharia Compliance and Halal Business Expo, said the platform continues to foster regional partnerships and promote integrity-driven enterprises.

 

"This platform is not just about showcasing products; it's about building trust, transparency, and collaboration among businesses that value ethical growth," Yusuf said.

 

Organizers noted that the expo has positioned Kenya as a key hub for Halal innovation and Sharia-compliant business in East and Central Africa, expanding its focus to Islamic finance, agribusiness, tourism, fashion, and real estate.

 

 

Following the success of this year's event, preparations are underway for the third edition, scheduled for April 2026 in Nairobi.

 

Read the original article on Capital FM.

 

 

 

 

 

Rwanda: Inside Rwanda's Plan to Cut Power Waste From Inefficient Fridges

Imported and locally manufactured refrigeration equipment will soon be tested and certified for energy efficiency in Rwanda, The New Times has learnt.

 

Inefficient refrigerators currently waste electricity worth an estimated Rwf4 billion annually. Such appliances consume more power, cost more to operate, and contribute to higher greenhouse gas emissions due to outdated designs or refrigerants.

 

Refrigeration equipment includes household and commercial fridges, freezers, cold rooms, chillers used in industries, refrigerated trucks for transporting perishables, and air conditioners--all of which are part of the broader cooling ecosystem.

 

 

 

 

Experts are urging consumers to adopt energy-saving refrigerators and air conditioners to cut costs and reduce environmental impact.

 

According to available data, Rwanda has 87,512 refrigerators, of which about 64,505 are considered old and inefficient.

 

Testing facility to ensure standards compliance

 

Prof. Toby Peters, Professor of Cold Economy at the University of Birmingham and Founding Director of the Africa Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Cooling and Cold-chain (ACES) in Kigali, said the centre has established an environmental test chamber to assess the energy efficiency of refrigeration equipment.

 

"We've just built an environmental test chamber. With this facility, we can now test refrigeration equipment in Rwanda, for Rwanda," he said. "This ensures that both imported and locally made equipment meet national efficiency standards protecting consumers while safeguarding the environment."

 

 

He noted that the centre has secured more than $50 million in funding for the programme from both government and industry.

 

"The Government of Rwanda has provided land and facilities, and we also have access to a 200-hectare research farm. Altogether, including in-kind contributions, the investment exceeds $50 million," he added.

 

ALSO READ: How cooling could redefine Africa's food, health, economic future

 

Festival of Cooling: advancing climate-friendly solutions

 

The new facility was showcased during the Festival of Cooling, held from October 6-10, which focused on sustainable cooling technologies for agriculture, health, and climate resilience.

 

The centre receives financial support from the UK and Rwandan governments.

 

 

"We've welcomed ministers from both countries, who were eager to see how our work aligns with Rwanda's national vision--empowering farmers, reducing food loss, creating jobs, and promoting opportunities for youth and women," Prof. Peters said.

 

UK Minister for International Development Baroness Chapman joined Rwanda's Ministers of Environment and Agriculture in touring the facility.

 

ALSO READ: New eco-friendly food cooling method unveiled

 

Tackling food and vaccine waste

 

The cooling systems--mainly fridges and cold rooms--promoted by ACES aim to reduce post-harvest losses and protect perishable goods. Across Africa, up to 40% of food is lost post-harvest due to a lack of cold storage, while 25-50% of vaccines spoil because of improper storage.

 

During the Festival of Cooling, farmers participated in hands-on training sessions on sustainable cooling solutions, such as solar-powered cold rooms, pre-cooling units, and temperature monitoring tools.

 

They also explored innovative financing models, including leasing, pay-as-you-store, and cooling-as-a-service, to make the technology more accessible.

 

Farmers shared experiences and success stories.

 

"As a farmer, after exploring the different cooling solutions, I realised we have several options to tackle post-harvest losses," said Marie Claire Umubyeyi from Rwamagana District.

 

"I met others using solar-powered cold rooms--essential in rural areas without access to the national grid. We hope ACES will support more farmers."

 

Claudine Niragire, a fruit and vegetable exporter, added:

 

"We store our produce in cold rooms where it stays fresh until we find buyers. Even during the dry season, our harvests remain intact thanks to these facilities."

 

Private sector innovations driving expansion

 

Startups are also investing in cold chain solutions. Marie Rose Sabina, Founder of Green Energy Technology Ltd (GET), said her company is seeking to raise $500,000 to expand operations.

 

"With that, we could acquire refrigerated trucks, build three cold rooms at agri-hubs--each with a five-tonne capacity--and expand our team," she said.

 

Patrick Ndayisaba, Founder of Greenover Africa, said his solar-powered cooling system helps smallholder farmers in off-grid areas reduce post-harvest losses.

 

"We've developed a working prototype and are now seeking partners to help us scale up," he said.

 

National targets to cut food losses

 

Telesphore Ndabamenye, Minister of State for Agriculture and Animal Resources, emphasised that accelerating the uptake of cooling technologies is central to achieving national food security goals.

 

Florence Uwamahoro, Deputy Director General in charge of Agricultural Development at RAB, said Rwanda aims to cut post-harvest losses in staple crops from 13.8 percent in 2023 to 8 percent by 2029, alongside reducing spoilage in fruits and vegetables.

 

A 2023 RAB study found substantial losses across key value chains: maize (13.8%), beans (11.3%), rice (12.4%), tomatoes (33.5%), cassava (24.8%), and Irish potatoes (25.2%).

 

Read the original article on New Times.

 

 

 

 

Nigeria's Public Debt Rises to N152.4tn By June 2025 - DMO

Nigeria's total public debt has risen to N152.40 trillion as of June 30, 2025, from N149.39 trillion recorded at the end of March, according to the latest data released by the Debt Management Office (DMO).

 

The figure represents a quarterly increase of N3.01 trillion, or 2.01%, while in dollar terms, the debt stock climbed from $97.24 billion to $99.66 billion, reflecting a 2.49% rise.

 

According to the report, external debt rose to $46.98 billion (N71.85 trillion) in June from $45.98 billion (N70.63 trillion) in March.

 

 

 

Multilateral lenders remain Nigeria's largest creditors, holding a combined $23.19 billion, which accounts for 49.4% of external obligations. The World Bank, through the International Development Association (IDA), is the single largest lender with $18.04 billion outstanding.

 

 

Bilateral loans amounted to $6.20 billion, led by the Export-Import Bank of China with $4.91 billion, followed by smaller exposures to France, Japan, India, and Germany.

 

Meanwhile, commercial borrowings totalled $17.32 billion, nearly all of which are Eurobonds, representing 36.9% of the external portfolio. An additional $268.9 million was owed under syndicated facilities and commercial bank loans.

 

On the domestic side, Nigeria's debt rose to N80.55 trillion by June, up from N78.76 trillion in March--an increase of N1.79 trillion. Federal Government bonds remained dominant, accounting for N60.65 trillion or 79.2% of total domestic debt. This includes N36.52 trillion in naira-denominated bonds, N22.72 trillion in securitised Ways and Means advances, and N1.40 trillion in dollar bonds.

 

 

Treasury bills accounted for N12.76 trillion (16.7%), while Sukuk bonds stood at N1.29 trillion. Other smaller instruments included savings bonds (N91.53 billion), green bonds (N62.36 billion), and promissory notes (N1.73 trillion)--the latter comprising both naira and foreign currency-denominated liabilities converted at the June CBN exchange rates.

 

Out of the total N152.40 trillion public debt, the Federal Government accounted for N141.08 trillion, representing 92.6% of the total.

 

This comprised N64.49 trillion in external obligations and N76.59 trillion in domestic debt.

 

The DMO wrote: "The Foreign Denominated Promissory Notes Outstanding amount of USD850,069,492 and £98,526 as at June 2025 were converted to Naira using CBN Official exchange rate of 1USD to N1,529.2105 and 1GBP to N2,093.9479 as at June 30, 2025."

 

Concerns over public debt

 

 

Daily Trust reports that there have been concerns from experts and Nigerians over the rising public debt even as the federal government plans to borrow more money.

 

Last week, President Bola Tinubu asked the Senate to approve a fresh external borrowing of $2.3billion.

 

The President's request was contained in a letter read during plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

 

Tinubu said the new loan is to implement the 2025 Appropriation Act, refinance maturing Eurobonds, and expand Nigeria's debt instruments to include Islamic finance products.

 

"The 2025 fiscal framework anticipates $9.27bn in new borrowings to address the budget deficit, of which $1.84bn is earmarked for external sources at an assumed exchange rate of N1,500 to the dollar," he said in the letter.

 

A key element of the plan is the refinancing of Nigeria's $1.118bn Eurobond, issued in 2018 at a coupon rate of 7.625% and due in November 2025.

 

"This is a standard practice in debt capital markets," the President wrote. "Refinancing through

 

Eurobonds or syndicated loans will guarantee debt sustainability and boost investor confidence."

 

Economist and CEO, Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprises (CPPE), Dr. Muda Yusuf, said the devaluation of the naira occasioned by the floating of the exchange rate system had put more pressure on Nigeria's debt profile.

 

He said, "One important factor that amplified the debt number was the exchange rate. Because if you look at the totality of our debts in dollar terms, you will discover that the difference between where we were and where we are now is not that significant, but because of the naira depreciation, the dollar component of the debt has gone up by almost three times.

 

"We used the exchange rate of N450/$ before the coming of this administration to convert dollar debt; now we are using N1,540/$ to convert it; that is three times. So, the exchange rate factor is a very big factor in the growth of the debt. The only way to understand this is to look at the DMO figure and check the total debt in dollars."

 

Read the original article on Daily Trust.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 


 


 Invest Wisely!

Bulls n Bears 

 

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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.

 


 

 


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