African markets and business updates

The BCEAO cuts the minimum share of customer funds held in demand deposits from 75% to 65%. The change creates room to reallocate up to CFA192.3 billion across licensed operators. Customer balance limits will double to CFA4 million from November 2.

Gabon has appointed a 32-member government amid tighter public finances. The revised 2026 budget cuts spending by CFA862.9 billion. Key economic ministers retain their posts as IMF talks continue. Gabon has reshuffled its government at a time when tighter public finances ...

Guinea's economy is projected to grow 8.8% in 2026 and 11.6% in 2027. Simandou iron ore exports are expected to drive much of the growth. The World Bank warns that strong growth may not translate into enough jobs or lower poverty.

As part of her virtual Mentorship and Leadership Platform, “Beyond Power; Leadership, Global Influence and Impact,” Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation ( ) , has shared a new leadership article titled “Before a Girl Can Reach Her Potential, Her Family and Community Must Believe She Has One-Leadership Beyond the Obvious.” Through the article, Dr. Kelej highlights the importance of family and community support in helping girls pursue their education, develop their abilities and realize their full potential. To read the full article and access the platform, visit: In her article, Dr.…

The firm says that the two week IPO extension will give more African investors the chance to buy into the refinery as it plots future growth.

Finance Minister Taiwo Oyedele has proposed measurable performance targets for federal agencies to reduce overlapping fees, approval procedures and regulatory delays. The Finance Ministry will review agency submissions within four to six weeks before consulting on a performance framework and agreeing on individual commitments.

The EU and Germany are providing €16.5 million through the StawiBluu programme to help tourism and aquaculture businesses access finance, skills and markets in mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar. Tanzania's tourism earnings rose 13% to $4.41 billion in 2025, while aquaculture production reached approximately 138,607 tons in ...

Madagascar’s slow budget execution and emerging revenue shortfalls are complicating implementation of its 2026 fiscal plans, according to an IMF mission. The government plans to accelerate public investment spending while maintaining its year-end primary-balance target and implementing measures to reduce tax exemptions. The ...

Ecobank is expanding its China platform through a new Beijing office and an agreement with the Cross-Border Interbank Payment System, aiming to facilitate trade and investment and give businesses easier access to opportunities across 34 African markets.

Key points Kentucky Town 254 launches on 20 October 2026, marking the first East African rollout of KFC’s limited-time festival. An exclusive Kenyan-inspired menu at selected KFC restaurants features The Colonel’s Mandazi Burger, The Colonel’s Mandazi Pops, The Kentucky Choma Burger, Samosa Crunch, Catch These Masala Fries, Birthday Cake Krusher and One in a Melon Krusher. Four Friday to Sunday pop-ups will open at The Junction Mall, The Hub Karen, Galleria Shopping Mall and Garden City Mall, featuring games, live experiences, music and an exclusive apparel collection co-created by KFC and home_254, the Nairobi-based fashion house known for wearable expressions of Kenyan identity.…