African markets and business updates

National authorities responsible for fisheries and for the implementation of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), from across 22 African coastal countries, commit to strengthen cooperation for improved implementation of CITES through national fisheries legal frameworks.…

Eritrea participated in the Africa Commerce and Industry Summit 2026, held in Nairobi, Kenya, from 14 to 16 October under the theme “Driving Africa’s Next Era of Trade”. The summit, organized by the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce, brought together over 5,000 delegates from more than 50 countries, including producers, exhibitors, investors and chamber of commerce representatives. Discussions focused on trade, investment and innovation through leadership and networking. At the summit, Mr.…

Professional military training is essential in developing officers who can adapt, lead and make sound decisions in increasingly complex operational environments. In line with this commitment, General Service Officer (GSO) Cadets at the Kenya Military Academy (KMA) have successfully completed a two-week field training exercise conducted in the general areas of Lanet and Gilgil. The exercise was designed to enhance the cadets’ tactical proficiency through urban warfare operations and exposure to the evolving dynamics of asymmetric warfare, strengthening their combat readiness and ability to operate effectively in demanding operational environments.…

KDF personnel operating from Hoosingo area under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) conducted a Key Leader Engagement (KLE) and Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activity in Hoosingo town, aimed at strengthening relations with the local population and enhancing situational awareness. As part of the outreach, the team conducted a medical camp at Hoosingo Town Dispensary, providing basic medical services to residents. The initiative offered essential healthcare support to the community, with beneficiaries expressing appreciation for the continued assistance and acknowledging the cordial relationship between AUSSOM personnel and the local population.…

In parts of the Karamoja region, north-eastern Uganda, the effects of prolonged drought are already visible. Water sources have dried up or fallen to very low levels. Families are travelling further to find water, while pasture continues to deteriorate, putting pressure on livelihoods that depend on livestock and crop production. One of the clearest signs of the worsening situation is Kobebe Dam in Karamoja’s Moroto district, normally a critical source of water for communities and their livestock. This year, the dam has dried up. In Nakidongo, Moroto district, more than 645 households displaced from Kotido District have moved closer to the area in search of water.…

Military service extends beyond safeguarding national security to embracing compassion, uplifting vulnerable communities and strengthening the bond between the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the people it serves. This spirit of service was demonstrated by the Kenya Air Force Parade Team, currently deployed in Eldoret for national parade duties ahead of Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kipchoge Keino Stadium, through a humanitarian outreach to Jawabu Rehabilitation Centre. The initiative, undertaken under the KDF Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) framework, was coordinated by Warrant Officer Class Two (WO2) Emanuel Kolil and WO2 Mark Mutai.…

The Minister of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation, Honourable Nthati Moorosi, has called for greater efforts to translate scientific research and innovation into practical solutions that improve the lives of Basotho. The Minister made the call when officially opening the third edition of the National Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Week 2026 in Maseru Today.Held under the theme “Exploring the Role of Science, Technology and Innovation in Improving Lives and Building a Better Future,” the week-long event brings together stakeholders to explore how science, technology and innovation can address Lesotho’s development priorities.…

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has received no further reports of dead or dying sardines since 10 September 2026. The acute mortality phase has ended, but surveillance continues and any new occurrences should be reported promptly. Laboratory testing for pilchard herpesvirus (PHV) has resumed following the earlier delay in the supply of essential reagents. The DFFE laboratory has received 107 case records comprising approximately 976 samples. Analysis has been completed for 37 cases comprising 326 samples, with testing of the remaining material continuing.…

On Monday, 19 October 2026, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Mr Barry Faure, officially opened the Biennial Ambassadors’ Retreat 2026 at the Seychelles Allamanda Resort and Spa. In his opening remarks, Minister Faure called on Ambassadors to reflect on the Ministry’s mandate, key strategic priorities, and how best to advance and safeguard Seychelles’ national interests in an increasingly complex international environment. “Our approach must balance continuity with the need to adapt. We have valuable experience, established relationships and institutional knowledge on which to build. At the same time, our responsibilities are evolving” the Minister stated .…

On October 19, 2026, Ambassador Han Jing paid a courtesy call on Hon. Prof. Roma Chilengi, Minister of Health of Zambia. Ambassador Han congratulated Prof. Chilengi on his appointment and said that, under the strategic guidance of the two Heads of State, China-Zambia comprehensive strategic and cooperative partnership has continued to grow. China attaches great importance to health cooperation and stands ready to strengthen communication and coordination with the Zambian side, deepen cooperation in medical team dispatches, pharmaceutical supplies assistance, health infrastructure development, and continue to improve the health and well-being of the Zambian people. Prof.…