Lower termination rates can enhance digital inclusion by making mobile services more accessible and affordable. This in turn bridges the digital divide and promotes socio-economic development. The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) has rolled out its final Call Termination Rate Amendment Regulations, aiming to make telecommunications more affordable nationwide. This...

In recent years, Côte d’Ivoire has been heavily investing in digital technology and ICT, with support from partners and the private sector. These investments have made the country a key destination for businesses from Europe, Asia, and the United States. The United States plans to strengthen trade ties and increase investments in Côte d’Ivoire. Sarah Morgenthau, the U.S. State...

In June 2023, Zambia agreed with its official bilateral creditors to restructure $6.3 billion of external debt, including $4.1 billion owed to China. Zambia accidentally sent $80 million to China through its state-owned electricity company, Zesco, while still navigating a challenging debt restructuring process. The transfer was disclosed by Treasury Secretary Felix Nkulukusa, who...

The importance of addressing online child safety in Africa lies in the rapidly growing internet penetration and the vulnerability of young users in this digital landscape. While connectivity offers immense opportunities, it also exposes children to risks such as cyberbullying, online predators, and exposure to harmful content. MTN Group convened policymakers, educators, advocacy groups, and...

Meriem Benmouloud, Algeria's High Commissioner for Digitalization, announced in July that the country's digital transformation strategy was ready for implementation. As the plan unfolds, new initiatives are being introduced. On December 7, Algeria launched its national strategy for artificial intelligence (AI) during the 3rd African Start-up Conference in Algiers. The initiative aims to develop...

In February 2024, Benin successfully issued Eurobonds despite high interest rates, supported by a MIGA guarantee. The country now aims to secure long-term commercial financing on better terms to advance its sustainable development goals. Recently, Benin obtained a €200 million ($211 million) guarantee from the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), a subsidiary of the World...

Senegal is one of the West African countries where cotton production plays a significant role in the economy. As the country works to revive its textile industry, it is implementing measures to better organize the marketing of raw materials within the sector. Senegal plans to ban the export of raw textile materials, according to Serigne Guèye Diop, the Minister of Industry and Trade. The...

In Nigeria, maize is the most widely grown and consumed cereal. The authorities are working to ensure a steady supply for the local market, amid growing pressures on availability. On December 6, the Nigerian Senate passed a bill aimed at curbing the export of raw maize. Reuters reported that under the new bill, any shipment of unprocessed maize weighing a ton or more would be illegal. Offenders...

In less than two weeks, Côte d’Ivoire has raised more than CFA480 billion ($774 million) on the regional market. This success reflects the country’s strong reputation among investors. Since the start of the year, Côte d’Ivoire has issued over 160 new securities, intensifying its fundraising efforts. On November 26, the country raised CFA275 billion ($443 million). It followed this with...

In Q2 2024, Nigeria's exports amounted to 17,545 billion naira ($11.2 billion), while imports totaled 13,497 billion naira. Nigeria's trade balance showed a surplus of 5.8 trillion naira (around $3.7 billion) in Q3 2024, according to the "Foreign Trade in Goods Statistics" report from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), released on December 6. The report reveals a...