Major International Business Headlines Brief ::: 25 September 2025
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Major International Business Headlines Brief ::: 25 September 2025
<mailto:info at bulls.co.zw>
ü Africa: Türkiye-Africa Trade Increases Sixfold in 20yrs
ü Liberia: LPRC Shuts Down Srimex Terminals Over Unpaid Taxes - Bility
Cries Foul, Vows Legal Action
ü Liberia: Giaba Director Urges Journalists to Strengthen Coverage On Money
Laundering, Terrorist Financing
ü Liberia: Arcelormittal Liberia Reaffirms Commitment to Environmental
Stewardship On World Environment Day
ü Kenya: KCB, Afreximbank Commit $800mn to Kenya's Vipingo Special Economic
Zone
ü Somalia: Uganda-Somalia Business Summit Set to Unlock Opportunities and
Regional Cooperation
ü Africa: Bii Invests $20m in Acumen Fund to Expand Off-Grid Solar in
Africa
ü Somalia: Somali President Addresses UN Security Council On Artificial
Intelligence and Global Security
ü Africa: Kenya, France to Co-Host 'Africa Forward' Summit in Nairobi in
May 2026
ü Kenya: National Assembly Roots for Expedited Extension of AGOA
ü South Africa: Durban Taxi Association Eases Travel for People With
Disabilities
ü Sudan, Russia Sign Economic and Trade Protocol to Promote Strategic
Cooperation
ü Tanzania: New Factories Fuel Tea Production Growth
ü Uganda: Ucaa's Olive Lumonya Inspires Young Girls to Dream Big in
Aviation
ü Uganda: Waterfront Hotel Apartments, Munyonyo - the Most Sought-After
Investment On the Market
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Africa: Türkiye-Africa Trade Increases Sixfold in 20yrs
Türkiye - THE bilateral trade volume between Türkiye and African countries
has risen more than six times over the past two decades, driven by
strengthened economic ties and growing cooperation across key sectors.
Trade between the two partners reached 32.8 billion US dollars (81tri/-) at
the end of last year, up from 5.4 billion US dollars (13.3tri/-) recorded in
2003, according to Türkiye's Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEİK).
The DEİK President Nail Olpak said Türkiye's ultimate target is to push the
trade volume up to 50 billion US dollars (123.3tri/-) in the coming years,
underlining Ankara's commitment to deepening engagement with the continent.
"We aim to strengthen economic relations with African countries with a
perspective focused on a win-win principle, contributing to Africa's
integration, economic development and industrial growth," said Olpak in a
statement.
Türkiye's exports to Africa stood at 21.5 billion US dollars last year,
while imports totalled 11.3 billion US dollars in the same period.
As economic ties continue to expand, the partnership initiative extends
towards hosting a two-day high-level trade and investment forum mid next
month in Istanbul in Türkiye.
The fifth Türkiye-Africa Business and Economic Forum will be hosted by the
Türkiye's Ministry of Trade, coordinated by the African Union and organised
by DEİK.
This year's event will feature President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, African Union
Chairperson and Angolan President João Gonçalves Lourenço and Türkiye's
Trade Minister Ömer Bolat.
With the theme leveraging Türkiye-Africa relations for mutual gains, the
forum will focus on priority sectors including agriculture and food,
renewable energy, transport and logistics, construction, mining, automotive,
textiles, defence industry and digital technologies.
According to organisers, the gathering is expected to attract over 4,000
business leaders from across Africa and Türkiye, alongside key financial
institutions such as the African Development Bank (AfDB), Afreximbank and
Türk Eximbank.
Through its business councils in 48 African countries, DEİK continues to
position Africa as a strategic partner in its global economic diplomacy.
Read the original article on Daily News.
Liberia: LPRC Shuts Down Srimex Terminals Over Unpaid Taxes - Bility Cries
Foul, Vows Legal Action
Monrovia - Tensions have escalated between the Liberia Petroleum Refining
Company (LPRC) and Srimex Oil and Gas after LPRC management reportedly shut
down Srimex's terminals, blocking the movement of petroleum products over
unpaid taxes and alleged non-compliance with new tariff regulations.
According to sources, LPRC personnel attempted to operate the Srimex
terminal to enforce newly imposed taxes, but Musa Bility, the owner of
Srimex Oil and Gas, refused to allow them access. Reports indicate that in
response, LPRC officials allegedly broke locks and blocked the terminal
gate, preventing the company from distributing its products.
Bility said the shutdown was unjustified, asserting that Srimex already has
a billing and taxation system in place. "They say they came to enforce their
new tariff they just enforced. I told them that we already have a system;
there's already a billing system. Why are they obstructing our operations?
They have all of our trucks outside. We will go to court," Bility told
reporters.
LPRC management, however, defended its actions, describing the move as
standard protocol when companies fail to comply with regulations. "Once they
comply, we will lift the restrictions. The same procedure was followed at
Conex, and they have since complied," a senior LPRC official said.
The LPRC also accused Srimex of preventing its monitoring team from
accessing the terminal, a measure the company said is necessary to ensure
compliance with Liberia's petroleum taxation and tariff laws.
Background
The standoff comes against the backdrop of recent government reforms in
Liberia's petroleum sector aimed at reducing costs to consumers and
increasing revenue for the state.
Earlier this year, the Liberian Senate mandated its Joint Committee on Ways,
Means, Finance and Budget, Judiciary, Public Corporations, Trade and
Industry, and Hydrocarbons to investigate allegations of unfair pricing of
petroleum products. The committee's report recommended a reduction in
storage fees charged on petroleum products from US$0.35 per gallon to
US$0.10, while financing costs imposed on importers were cut from US$0.40
per gallon to 1% of CIF value.
President Joseph Boakai subsequently endorsed the recommendations, reducing
the storage fee to US$0.05 per gallon.
The decision triggered backlash from Musa Bility, who accused the government
of political witch-hunt and claimed that the reduction was designed to hurt
his company's revenues. Bility has publicly named Vice President Jeremiah
Koung and Senators Prince Moye and Emmanuel Nuquay as masterminds of the
policy.
Senator Prince Moye, however, recently dismissed Bility's claims, stressing
that the deducted storage fees "belong to the Liberian people" and not
private tank owners.
With the latest confrontation at Srimex's terminal, tensions between Bility
and the Boakai-Koung administration appear to be deepening, setting the
stage for what could become a major legal and political showdown in
Liberia's petroleum industry.
Read the original article on FrontPageAfrica.
Liberia: Giaba Director Urges Journalists to Strengthen Coverage On Money
Laundering, Terrorist Financing
Bissau - Bissau - The Director General of the Inter-Governmental Action
Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA), Dr. Edwin Harris Jr.,
has called on journalists across West Africa to enhance their reporting on
money laundering and terrorist financing, warning that weak and inaccurate
coverage undermines efforts to combat economic crimes in the region.
Speaking at the opening of a three-day Regional Training on Investigative
Journalism in Economic and Financial Crimes in Bissau, Dr. Harris criticized
what he described as poor coverage of Anti-Money Laundering and Countering
the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) issues, including a lack of due
diligence and, in some cases, misinformation.
"The fight against the darkness of money laundering will only be won through
the powerful beacon of light that journalists represent," Dr. Harris said.
"The media, particularly investigative journalists, are our strategic allies
in building a transparent, safer, and more prosperous West Africa."
Guinea-Bissau's Minister of Social Communication, Maria Conceição Evória,
echoed his sentiments, stressing that investigative reporting is an "ethical
commitment that attacks what is untouchable."
She noted that meaningful journalism in this area requires both courage and
financial support, especially in today's overwhelming information
environment. "To make sense of the complex mechanisms of money laundering
and corruption, journalists must remain clear-headed, educational, and
courageous," Evória said.
Also speaking at the event, Justino Sá, President of Guinea-Bissau's
National Financial Information Processing Unit (CENTIF), emphasized that the
responsibility to tackle money laundering cannot rest solely on governments
and regulators.
"In an interconnected world where illicit financial flows circulate freely
and weaken our economies, journalists must show courage and quality in
uncovering the networks behind AML/CFT," he said.
Representing the Ministry of Finance, Secretary of State for the Treasury
Mamadou Baldé highlighted the importance of equipping journalists with tools
for ethical and responsible reporting. "This training aims to help defend
the threatened fundamental rights of our people from corruption, terrorism,
and drug trafficking," Baldé noted.
The training, organized by GIABA, brings together 40 journalists from across
the ECOWAS region. It features prominent facilitators, including Ivorian
journalist Lassine Fofana, Nigerian academic Abigail Odozi Ogwezzy-Ndisika,
senior GIABA officer Timothy Melaye, and former Director of the Judicial
Police in Guinea-Bissau, magistrate Hermenegildo Pereira.
Read the original article on FrontPageAfrica.
Liberia: Arcelormittal Liberia Reaffirms Commitment to Environmental
Stewardship On World Environment Day
Monrovia - ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) has reaffirmed its commitment to
environmental stewardship as it joined the global community in celebration
of World Environment Day (WED). This year's celebration, observed on
Tuesday, September 9, coincided with the company's monthly litter parade
initiative, which brought together employees and community members in
Buchanan and Yekepa to promote cleanliness and raise awareness on
sustainable practices.
The colorful event saw AML's Environmental Champions wearing specially
designed T-shirts as they led clean-up exercises across the company's work
sites, demonstrating the mining giant's ongoing commitment to maintaining a
safe and healthy environment.
Duke Davis, AML's Superintendent for Environment in Buchanan, described
World Environment Day as both a global reminder and a personal call to
action.
"World Environment Day is a moment of accountability and renewal, a time to
reflect on our footprint and recommit to protecting the Earth. For us at
AML, it is also a celebration of nature and a spark for activism. Through
initiatives like the litter parade, we encourage our supervisors, managers,
and employees to take environmental cleanliness seriously and to implement
our environmental policies in every aspect of their work," Davis said.
He listed a number of safeguards AML has put in place to protect the
environment in its concession areas, including a zero tolerance for oil
spills at operational sites; construction of sediment control structures to
minimize contamination of the ocean and sensitive ecosystems; monthly water
quality monitoring at discharge locations; a weekly air and noise monitoring
using advanced equipment, including Dust Sentry monitors at the Buchanan
Port; as well as monthly waste management awareness programs for employees
and contractors.
Beyond these technical safeguards, ArcelorMittal Liberia continues to
prioritize long-term sustainability by embedding environmental protection
into every stage of its operations. The company invests in training programs
for employees and contractors to ensure global best practices are followed,
partners with local communities to promote environmental awareness, and
allocates resources toward initiatives that restore and preserve
biodiversity in mining areas. AML's leadership has emphasized that
protecting the environment is not just a compliance requirement but a core
value that guides how the company does business in Liberia.
Read the original article on FrontPageAfrica.
Kenya: KCB, Afreximbank Commit $800mn to Kenya's Vipingo Special Economic
Zone
The deal shows how global and regional lenders are teaming up with local
banks to close Africa's industrial financing gap
Nairobi, Kenya | THE INDEPENDENT | KCB Group and the African Export-Import
Bank (Afreximbank) have signed a financing agreement worth $800mn to support
investors in the Vipingo Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Kenya's Kilifi
County, a flagship project under the Special Economic Zones Authority.
The deal, announced at the Kenya Investment Forum 2025 hosted by Arise
Integrated Industrial Platforms, commits $500mn from Afreximbank and $300mn
from KCB. The funding is intended to provide competitive financing packages
for manufacturers, agro-processors, logistics operators and value-addition
enterprises establishing operations in the SEZ.
Investors will gain access to project finance, working capital, trade
facilities, guarantees and advisory services, with both institutions
pledging to pool expertise and networks to attract local and international
firms.
"This agreement marks a significant step in our mission to catalyse
sustainable industrial growth in Kenya and across the region," said Paul
Russo, KCB Group chief executive.
"Vipingo SEZ can become a gateway for export-oriented industries, leveraging
economies of scale, shared infrastructure and access to global markets."
Afreximbank described the partnership as consistent with its mandate to
expand African trade. "Special Economic Zones are powerful engines for
industrialisation, export growth and economic diversification," said
Oluranti Doherty, the bank's managing director for export development.
"Through this financing framework we will not only enable enterprises to
scale but also support sustainable supply chains that uplift local
communities."
The agreement was signed in Vipingo on September 16 by Russo for KCB,
Doherty for Afreximbank and George Olaka, chief executive of Arise
IIP-Kenya. It was witnessed by Kenya's president William Ruto, Afreximbank
chair Benedict Oramah and Arise IIP founder Gagan Gupta.
Vipingo SEZ is part of Kenya's broader push to attract foreign direct
investment into industrial hubs. It follows Afreximbank's $3bn country
programme signed in May 2023, earmarked for industrial projects including
the Naivasha Industrial Park and Dongo Kundu Industrial Park. The bank has
already disbursed $40mn for initial works at Vipingo and committed an
additional $500mn to support incoming investors.
The deal highlights how multilateral development banks and regional lenders
are increasingly working with local financial institutions to address
Africa's infrastructure and industrial financing gap. For Kenya, it
underscores an effort to position Kilifi as a magnet for capital and an
anchor for its long-term industrialisation agenda.
Read the original article on Independent (Kampala).
Somalia: Uganda-Somalia Business Summit Set to Unlock Opportunities and
Regional Cooperation
Kampala, Uganda - Uganda will host the 2nd Session of the Uganda-Somalia
Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) alongside an Investment and Business Summit
from 7-8 October 2025 at Mestil Hotel, Kampala. This year's theme is
"Promoting Uganda-Somalia Partnership through Investment, Trade and Tourism,
and Harnessing Opportunities in Both Countries," and the Investment and
Business Summit will be graced by Presidents Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and
Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
This was announced Wednesday at a media launch for the Uganda-Somalia JPC,
Investment and Business Summit at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
headquarters. The meeting will bring together senior government officials,
business leaders, and private sector representatives from both countries to
review bilateral cooperation progress and unlock new trade and investment
opportunities.
Prof. Sam Tulya Muhika, Head of Mission at the Uganda Embassy in Somalia,
said the Summit aims to raise awareness among the private sector in Uganda
about available trade and investment opportunities between Uganda and
Somalia. He emphasized that while Ugandans engage in business with Somalia,
the reverse is currently limited.
Muhika highlighted the longstanding ties between the two countries,
evidenced by the Somali community in Uganda since the 1920s. He also
reflected on the progress of Uganda-Somalia relations, from establishing a
permanent mission in 2014 to the 2016 framework agreement, which allows
individual MDAs to enter Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) for cooperation
and implementation under the oversight of the JPC.
Muhika stressed the importance of promoting investment between the two
countries, noting that while Uganda already has an investment portfolio in
Somalia, the primary expectation is to raise awareness of opportunities in
both countries to create a balanced trade relationship.
Amb. Abdi Latif Ali, Deputy Ambassador of Somalia to Uganda, expressed
gratitude for the second session of the JPC, calling the meetings a
reflection of deep bilateral ties. He acknowledged Uganda's support during
Somalia's difficult periods and recalled Somalia's support for Uganda's
stability in the 1970s.
He highlighted that the 2016 framework agreement laid the foundation for the
JPC, whose first session was held in Kampala in 2022. New MoUs will be
signed to open avenues in education, migration, and labour, as well as
agreements in security, health, and refugee affairs.
He emphasized that the partnership contributes to bilateral cooperation and
regional peace and EAC integration, expressing confidence that brotherhood
and mutual respect will boost the outcomes of the upcoming JPC.
Amb. Ali also cited economic cooperation examples, such as the potential for
Ugandan avocados to reach Somali markets at higher prices, highlighting
trade opportunities. He confirmed that Somalia's Chamber of Commerce will
participate, and additional MoUs are ready to be signed in labour,
education, migration, and health.
Representing the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb.
Richard Kabonero, Head of Regional Economic Cooperation, thanked both
missions for their efforts toward the JPC. He highlighted Uganda's expanding
export base:
"In the last 15 years, Uganda has added 31 new products to its export
markets, and there is no better market than our neighbours and the region."
Read the original article on Independent (Kampala).
Africa: Bii Invests $20m in Acumen Fund to Expand Off-Grid Solar in Africa
British International Investment (BII) has committed $20 million to Acumen's
Hardest-to-Reach (H2R) Initiative, a fund aimed at expanding access to
off-grid solar power in underserved African markets.
The investment, made through H2R Amplify, will help provide affordable clean
energy to over 50 million people across 17 countries, including Malawi,
Sierra Leone, and Uganda. The program is expected to displace kerosene use
and mitigate more than 3 million tons of carbon emissions.
H2R Amplify has secured $123 million at first close and uses a blended
finance model to attract private investors, offering impact-linked loans and
receivables-backed financing to solar companies. Acumen launched the
initiative with UK research and innovation support through the Transforming
Energy Access platform.
The vehicle qualifies under the 2X Challenge, supporting gender inclusion in
the energy sector through economic opportunities for women as customers and
employees.
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Africa's investment landscape
Key Takeaways
The BII-Acumen partnership highlights how blended finance is being used to
address Africa's chronic electricity gap. Nearly 600 million people on the
continent still lack reliable power, with electrification rates as low as
12% in some frontier economies. Off-grid solar has emerged as a scalable
alternative, with companies using pay-as-you-go and receivables-backed
models to expand access where national grids are limited. The $246.5 million
raised by H2R to date underscores growing appetite for catalytic capital
that de-risks fragile markets while unlocking commercial participation. By
embedding gender-focused action plans, the initiative also addresses the
disproportionate energy poverty burden carried by women, who are both
primary household energy managers and an underrepresented workforce in the
sector. For BII, which has pledged 30% of new commitments to climate finance
by 2026, this deal signals a push into high-impact markets often overlooked
by private capital, reinforcing its role as a development finance anchor
investor.
Read the original article on Daba Finance.
Somalia: Somali President Addresses UN Security Council On Artificial
Intelligence and Global Security
New York, United Nations Headquarters - Somali President Hassan Sheikh
Mohamud delivered a keynote address before the United Nations Security
Council on Wednesday, highlighting both the opportunities and threats posed
by artificial intelligence (AI) to international peace and security.
Speaking during an open debate dedicated to the impact of emerging
technologies on global security, President Mohamud underscored the
transformative power of AI in reshaping economies, societies, and defense
systems worldwide. He described AI as "a modern reality" that is already
redefining how nations interact, how conflicts evolve, and how peace can be
maintained.
The Somali leader stressed that while AI offers significant opportunities
for accelerating development, peacebuilding, and governance, it also carries
profound risks if left unchecked. He warned that extremist groups and
criminal networks could exploit AI for malicious purposes, including
disinformation campaigns, cyberattacks, and new forms of warfare.
The remarks were delivered at the UN Headquarters in New York on September
25, 2025, during a special Security Council session that gathered heads of
state, diplomats, and international experts to debate the future of AI in
global governance.
President Mohamud joined other world leaders and UN officials calling for a
coordinated global response. The debate reflected growing concerns among
Security Council members over the lack of international standards guiding
the use of artificial intelligence in sensitive areas like defense,
surveillance, and critical infrastructure.
The Somali president urged the international community to adopt
comprehensive global regulations to govern AI, stressing fairness and
inclusivity. "Access to modern technologies must not be a privilege of the
few," he argued, noting that developing nations like Somalia risk being left
behind unless technology transfer and equitable access are ensured.
Somalia itself is navigating a complex security landscape, battling the
militant group al-Shabaab and seeking to stabilize its institutions after
decades of conflict. For Mogadishu, emerging technologies present a
double-edged sword: they offer tools for state-building, but also risks of
exploitation by terrorist networks already adept at using digital platforms
for propaganda and recruitment.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's speech reflects Somalia's effort to
position itself within the global discourse on AI, aligning with broader UN
efforts to regulate new technologies. His call for inclusive and responsible
AI governance highlights a central challenge facing the international
system: how to harness technological progress for peace and development
while preventing it from becoming a new frontier of conflict.
Read the original article on Radio Dalsan.
Africa: Kenya, France to Co-Host 'Africa Forward' Summit in Nairobi in May
2026
Nairobi - Kenya and France will jointly host the "Africa Forward:
Africa-France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth" Summit in Nairobi on
May 11-12, 2026, bringing together African and French Heads of State and
Government to chart a new path for innovation, growth, and mutual
cooperation.
The announcement was made following talks between President William Ruto and
French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the United Nations
General Assembly in New York on September 24.
In a statement, President Ruto said the summit reflects a shared commitment
to strengthening bilateral ties and deepening multilateral cooperation to
advance global goals.
"Together, we announced that Kenya and France will co-host the Africa
Forward Summit in Nairobi on 11th and 12th May 2026. The Summit will bring
together African and French Heads of State and Government to drive
innovation, foster growth, and shape a future built on mutual benefit,"
President Ruto said.
A joint communiqué issued by the two governments described the summit as
part of the renewal of relations between France and African nations,
emphasizing genuine partnerships and shared progress.
The agenda will focus on key areas including reform of the international
financial architecture, energy transition, green industrialisation, the blue
economy and connectivity, artificial intelligence, sustainable agriculture,
and health.
The summit will open on May 11, 2026 with a Business Forum showcasing
innovations, projects, and success stories from both African and French
private sectors.
It will also spotlight the role of young entrepreneurs, civil society, and
international organisations in shaping solutions to pressing global and
regional challenges.
Read the original article on Capital FM.
Kenya: National Assembly Roots for Expedited Extension of AGOA
Nairobi - The National Assembly has called for the expedited extension of
the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), citing its immense
contribution to Kenya's economy and livelihoods.
In a Motion sponsored by Laikipia Member of Parliament Jane Kagiri and
supported across the political divide, Members underscored the importance of
AGOA in boosting exports, creating employment, and sustaining social
development.
Kagiri raised concerns that the current extension of AGOA granted in 2015 is
set to expire in September 2025, warning of potential economic disruptions
if urgent measures are not taken.
"Women comprise approximately 75 per cent of the direct beneficiaries of
AGOA, and their incomes directly support education, healthcare, and poverty
alleviation," she stated.
Kagiri urged the Government of Kenya, in collaboration with the United
States Government, to pursue a 16-year extension of AGOA to protect
livelihoods, safeguard economic gains, and promote long-term prosperity.
She further proposed a two-year transition period in case of non-renewal to
allow the development of a new trade framework that secures businesses and
jobs in both countries.
Members also appealed to President William Ruto currently on official duty
in the United States to prioritize discussions on AGOA extension during his
engagements.
George Murugara (Tharaka), Chairperson of the Justice and Legal Affairs
Committee, emphasized that the programme has been vital in poverty
alleviation and economic growth.
"The termination of AGOA would affect not just Kenya but the entire
Sub-Saharan region. Bilateral agreements must be strengthened to ensure
continuity and to address trade imbalances between our economies," he said.
Catherine Omanyo added: "We strongly appeal for an extension of AGOA,
without which many countries will suffer. Kenya and Africa at large need
this partnership."
Owen Baya (Kilifi North) described AGOA as a progressive framework that has
enabled Africa to scale up production while targeting the American market.
"Kenya has tremendously benefited through the EPZ industries and related
programmes, which have created thousands of job opportunities," he noted.
John Waluke (Sirisia) echoed these sentiments, appealing directly to the
U.S. leadership: "We plead with the President of the United States, Hon.
Trump, to consider the extension so that Kenya does not suffer."
The Motion highlighted AGOA's transformative impact since its enactment in
2000, including expanded trade, increased investment, and improved
governance in Sub-Saharan Africa. It noted that AGOA has not only benefited
Africa but also the United States--through supply chain diversification,
stronger bilateral ties, and access to opportunities under the African
Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Lawmakers affirmed that the extension of AGOA represents a win-win
partnership, securing livelihoods in Kenya while reinforcing the U.S.-Africa
trade relationship.
Read the original article on Capital FM.
South Africa: Durban Taxi Association Eases Travel for People With
Disabilities
Using public transport is a struggle for people with disabilities. People
who depend on wheelchairs and other assistive devices say they often wait
for hours because many taxis don't stop to pick them up. Others say they are
charged an additional fee for their wheelchairs.
Even when they do manage to get a taxi, people with disabilities face
additional challenges. They have to navigate long distances using
wheelchairs or crutches in busy city environments.
"We often become victims of crime if we have to walk long distances from the
Pinetown CBD, which sometimes forces us to seek help from others to reach
our intended facilities after disembarking from the taxi," says wheelchair
user Hlengiwe Mngadi from KwaNyuswa west of Durban.
Instead of just complaining about this state of affairs, Mngadi took action.
Through Siyaphambili Manyuswa Disabled Organisation, which she founded in
2021, Mngadi approached the local taxi association to assist people with
disabilities in the area.
"The feedback from taxi drivers and owners about our request was very
supportive," she tells Health-e News.
For the past six months, the Qadi-Nyuswa Taxi Association, which operates
routes in the west of Durban between Maqadini and KwaNyuswa to Hillcrest,
Pinetown, Durban, and Camperdown, has implemented a new system. Drivers now
take passengers with disabilities directly to government facilities such as
SASSA and the post office in Pinetown.
How the system works
Previously, taxi drivers would drop passengers with disabilities off in the
Pinetown CBD along with other passengers. If they needed to travel further,
they were required to pay extra or hire someone to assist them across busy
roads.
"We received a letter from Siyaphambili Manyuswa Disabled Organisation,
requesting assistance in transporting their members to the facilities they
need. After reviewing their request, we discussed it with our committee and
agreed to support them," Buzanani Zungu, known as Manzini in the taxi
industry and a training officer for the Qadi-Nyuswa Taxi Association, tells
Health-e News.
Manzini explains that once passengers with disabilities complete their
visits to these facilities, passengers notify the driver by calling either
their driver directly or the rank manager so that their return trip can be
arranged.
Sbusiso Zulu, who has over 25 years of experience as a taxi driver for the
Qadi-Nyuswa Taxi Association, shared insights about how people are
benefiting from the current transport arrangement.
"This system not only assists people with disabilities to reach facilities
and offices located more than 1.8 km away in Pinetown, but it also benefits
the elderly and pregnant women," he says. Zulu explains that elderly
passengers often request to be dropped off at the entrances of their
destinations as well due to their inability to walk long distances. Pregnant
women frequently ask to be dropped off at the clinic gates.
Commuters' experiences
Bathobile Gwala from KwaNyuswa says she was not aware of the new transport
arrangement until early August when she took a taxi to Pinetown. Seeing that
she was using a wheelchair, the taxi driver offered to take her straight to
the SASSA office gate after all the other passengers had exited the taxi.
But this must go further, says Gwala.
Taxi owners and drivers should find a way for wheelchair users to avoid
paying for two passengers when they are travelling alone, as they often have
to pay for their wheelchair as well.
Nolizwi Notshe, a 54-year-old wheelchair user, recounts previous challenges
she faced while trying to access clinics or public transport in the Pinetown
CBD. She often had to wait hours for a taxi because many drivers would not
stop for passengers with disabilities. However, since the implementation of
this new arrangement, she feels a greater sense of respect from drivers and
fellow passengers.
Challenges remain
Nevertheless, Nkosinathi Mzila, a 37-year-old user of crutches from
KwaNyuswa, says he wasn't aware of the new system until Health-e informed
him. He praised its implementation and promised to share the information
with other individuals with disabilities he knows.
Mzila relies on public transport and makes sure to sit at the front next to
the driver so he has room to stretch his legs and arrange his crutches
comfortably. - Health-e News
This article is republished under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike
4.0 International License.
Sudan, Russia Sign Economic and Trade Protocol to Promote Strategic
Cooperation
(SUNA) - The proceedings of the eighth session of the Sudanese-Russian Joint
Ministerial Committee for Economic and Trade Cooperation concluded Wednesday
at the Golden Ring Hotel in Russian capital, Moscow.
The Sudanese side was chaired by Minister of Minerals Nur-El-Daem Taha,
while the Russian side headed by Minister of Natural Resources and
Environment, Mr. Alexander Kozlov.
During the opening session, Russian Minister of Environment Alexander Kozlov
highlighted the strength of Sudanese-Russian relations and Russia's keenness
to develop them, particularly in the economic aspects. He explained that the
discussions and the understandings reached support the development of
relations and contribute to increasing trade exchange, which has recently
seen a 92% increase as a result of the momentum in economic relations.
The Minister of Minerals, Mr. Al-Nurdaim Taha, conveyed the greetings of the
Sudanese leadership to the Russian leadership and expressed thanks for
Russia's support to Sudan during the critical phase it is undergoing. He
praised the solid relations between the two countries, clarifying that the
understandings reached and the memoranda and cooperation protocol signed
Wednesday will contribute to developing relations between the two nations.
He added that Sudan is approaching a phase of reconstruction for what was
destroyed by the war waged by the terrorist Rapid Support Forces (RSF)
militia, demanding its classification as a terrorist organization.
The final day's activities also included a bilateral meeting between the
heads of the two delegations, during which they discussed the important
outcomes of the technical meetings in the fields of energy, oil, minerals,
transport, and infrastructure. They emphasized the necessity of activating
cooperation in these fields during the upcoming period by implementing
mechanisms for cooperation and tight coordination between the two countries
to enhance economic and trade relations, especially as Sudan is entering a
post-war reconstruction phase.
Both sides agreed on the need to establish a strategic partnership between
Sudan and Russia, work on opening all investment fields to the Russian side,
and develop a clear vision while leveraging Russian capabilities,
particularly in the fields of minerals, energy, oil, roads, and bridges.
At the conclusion of the eighth session of the Joint Ministerial Committee,
the Economic and Trade Cooperation Protocol between the two countries was
signed, along with two memoranda of understanding concerning transport and
infrastructure, and banking and financial services.
The Russian side also expressed its readiness to provide all facilities to
the public and private sectors for investment in a number of projects,
especially during the post-war phase. It highlighted the importance of
exchanging expertise, visits, and meetings between the two sides to
implement the agreed-upon projects.
Read the original article on SNA.
Tanzania: New Factories Fuel Tea Production Growth
Dar es Salaam - TEA production is showing renewed promise, driven by the
revival of dormant factories and the establishment of new processing plants.
Tea Board of Tanzania (TBT) Director General Ms Beatrice Banzi, expressed
optimism following a reported production increase of more than five per cent
to 22,000 tonnes in the 2024/25 season compared to 2023/24.
Speaking to the Daily News, Ms Banzi said national production is expected to
exceed 30,000 tonnes of made tea in the current fiscal year.
"Several previously inactive factories including the Kilolo Tea Factory,
which is now operating under a joint venture with Chinese investors have
resumed production. The facility is producing orthodox tea for both domestic
consumption and export markets.
"The government is reviewing previously privatised but now non-operational
tea factories with the aim of returning them to farmer ownership under the
current legal framework," said Ms Banzi.
She also noted that new processing machinery has been installed in Dar es
Salaam to support the sector's growth.
"We anticipate a harvest of over 30,000 tonnes this fiscal year, thanks to
increased operational capacity. Many factories had previously shut down, but
those in Njombe and Iringa have now received fresh investments through CRDB
Bank," she added.
Further, Ms Banzi said the tea estates which have been dormant for more than
three decades, particularly in the Southern Highlands, are set to be
rehabilitated as part of a broader strategic effort to meet national
production targets.
TBT Marketing Manager, Mr Suleyman Chillo, confirmed the return of Victoria
Tea (formerly Kagera Tea) to active production after years of dormancy. The
factory, located in Kagera Region, will resume operations with a renewed
focus on producing high-quality tea and strengthening its presence in
international markets.
The revival of Victoria Tea is expected to significantly boost the income of
smallholder tea farmers in the Kagera region, while also contributing to the
country's export earnings.
"Our strategy includes educating farmers on best practices in tea
cultivation, maintenance and harvesting including proper fertiliser use to
improve yields," said Mr Chillo.
TBT's Acting Director of Regulatory Services, Mr Mbushunoti Mindoi, said
that Tea is currently cultivated in six major regions; Tanga, Iringa,
Njombe, Mbeya, Mara and Kagera with more than 70 per cent of the crop
originating from the Southern Highlands.
"There are now over 32,000 smallholder Tea farmers across the country, along
with seven large-scale producers. Nationwide, a total of 23,805 hectares are
currently under Tea cultivation," Mr Mindoi said.
He said that while the target for the previous season was to produce 25,000
tonnes of tea, only 22,000 tonnes were achieved due to drought conditions
that affected the Southern Highlands. In addition, a number of factories
temporarily shut down.
"Some closures were related to management challenges, but those issues are
being resolved. The affected factories are now preparing to resume
operations with renewed vigour," he added.
Read the original article on Daily News.
Uganda: Ucaa's Olive Lumonya Inspires Young Girls to Dream Big in Aviation
The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has reaffirmed its commitment to
promoting gender equality and empowering the next generation of aviation
professionals.
Speaking during the second edition of the Girls in Aviation Day at UCAA
headquarters in Entebbe organised in partnership with AirServ and African
Leaders in Aviation, Olive Birungi Lumonya, the Deputy Director General of
UCAA, described the occasion as more than a celebration--it is becoming a
meaningful tradition in Uganda's aviation calendar.
She emphasized the UCAA's dedication to the International Civil Aviation
Organization's (ICAO) Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP)
Programme, which focuses on attracting, training, and retaining young
talent, especially women, in the aviation sector.
"We are intentional about supporting this programme and creating platforms
that encourage you--and many other young people--to pursue your dreams in
aviation," Lumonya told the gathering of aspiring aviators.
"Events such as this are vital because they bring together young girls from
across the country who are interested in aviation careers and serve as a
source of inspiration."
Highlighting the diversity of career paths within aviation, Lumonya noted
that opportunities are not limited to piloting aircraft but extend to flight
operations, ground handling, airport management, engineering, drone
technology, rescue and firefighting, and wildlife management, among others.
She urged participants to ask questions, stay curious, and explore the many
possibilities available in the fast-evolving aviation industry.
The Deputy Director General proudly revealed that 32% of UCAA's workforce is
currently female, a figure the Authority is determined to grow through
continued mentorship and inclusion efforts.
"Aviation thrives on determination and resilience--qualities you already
possess. Though challenges may come, especially in fields where women are
still underrepresented, they also bring great opportunities," she said.
Lumonya encouraged the girls to tap into mentorship programs, pursue STEM
education, and seek scholarships and professional networks to help them
break barriers in the aviation space.
The event, now in its second year, continues to serve as a springboard for
young Ugandan girls to envision themselves as part of the aviation
industry's future, with support from both public and private sector
stakeholders.
Read the original article on Nile Post.
Uganda: Waterfront Hotel Apartments, Munyonyo - the Most Sought-After
Investment On the Market
The real estate industry is a consistently thriving market, offering vast
opportunities for shrewd and forward-thinking investors and developers.
Investments can take many forms, including investment properties (land,
residential, commercial), publicly traded Real Estate Investment Trusts
(REITs), and real estate company stocks.
In this article, we'll discuss why Buildnet's new investment model, the
"Waterfront Hotel Apartments Munyonyo," is a groundbreaking, turnkey
opportunity--the first of its kind in Uganda.
About Buildnet
Buildnet is a leading real estate development and management company in
Uganda with nearly 15 years of experience. We have successfully delivered
over 500 apartment units in prime locations like Naalya and Najjera.
To ensure the highest quality and timely delivery of our projects, we've
established strategic partnerships with best-in-class architects, engineers,
and project managers from South Africa. Our 15 years of experience show that
approximately 90% of our clients buy apartments for business or investment
purposes.
The Traditional Investment Model: A Source of Frustration
Over the years, Buildnet has discovered that the traditional investment
model poses many frustrations for our customers. This is the model where an
investor buys an apartment, takes full charge of it, and then struggles to
earn back their investment.
These frustrations often include:
Low return on investment (ROI) and a long payback period.
The hassle of finding tenants, often through stressful brokers.
The stress of managing tenants (collecting rent, evicting them, etc.).
The costs and effort of maintenance and repairs.
Incurring maintenance costs even during periods of non-occupancy.
Introducing Buildnet's New Investment Model
Our new model is a game-changer. Designed around fully furnished, fully
serviced, and fully managed Hotel Apartments, it does three key things:
It offers a guaranteed 8.5% high return on investment.
It ensures your property gets occupants, stress-free.
It handles all aspects of property management for you.
Essentially, we're not just selling an apartment; we're selling a turnkey
investment. You'll own your apartment and receive its title in your name,
with all the headaches of ownership taken care of.
Payback Period Comparison
Let's compare the payback periods for the two models:
Traditional Model: An estimated 20 years or more.
Buildnet's New Model: Approximately 11.5 years or less.
For example, a two-bedroom apartment in Naalya that costs UGX 310,000,000
(about USD 85,000) might earn around UGX 1,500,000 (about USD 400) per
month. This means the payback period would be roughly 17.2 years, assuming
constant occupancy. When you factor in non-occupancy, maintenance, and fees,
the real payback period can easily extend to 20 years or more.
So, how can we practically guarantee an 8.5% return?
The High-Performance Advantage of Our Hotel Apartments
Our luxury Hotel Apartments have a built-in advantage:
Prime Location: Located in Munyonyo, one of Uganda's most prestigious areas,
with stunning views of Lake Victoria and a minute's drive from the express
highway.
Superior Quality: Expertly constructed and finished with high-end
furnishings and fittings.
Premium Amenities: Features like a swimming pool, gym, business center,
restaurant, and 24-hour concierge services attract a steady flow of tourists
and business travelers, ensuring a high occupancy rate.
Guaranteed Returns and Capital Appreciation
Buildnet offers several investment options, promising guaranteed returns of
8.5% and hassle-free earnings. These options include fully furnished studios
and one- and two-bedroom units from the 1st to the 8th floor.
Let's look at a studio investment option:
Guaranteed monthly income: $700
Annual return: $700 x 12 = $8,400
Annual Yield (ROI): 8.5%
Payback Period: 100 / 8.5 = approximately 11.5 years.
Additionally, the estimated capital appreciation for a given property is 6%
annually. This means the estimated combined annual return is 14.5% (8.5% +
6%). At this rate, your investment value approximately doubles in just 10
years!
This guaranteed ROI applies to all available investment options.
Co-Investing Option
Our model also allows for co-investing. This means two or more people can
invest together in a single unit and still enjoy the same high returns.
Monthly income and capital appreciation are distributed according to each
investor's capital contribution. If you decide to sell your share, profits
are split in the same ratio.
Conclusion
Investing in Waterfront Hotel Apartments is the surest way to make money
from real estate, completely stress-free. With guaranteed, hassle-free
returns of 8.5%, all you have to do is sit back, relax, and wait for your
bank notifications.
www.buildnet.co.ug
Read the original article on Nile Post.
Invest Wisely!
Bulls n Bears
Cellphone: +263 71 944 1674 | +27 79 993 5557
Email: <mailto:bulls at bullszimbabwe.com>
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INVESTORS DIARY 2025
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TSL
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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
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companies typically involve a higher degree of risk and more volatility than
the securities of more established companies. Neither Faith Capital nor any
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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:
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