October 27, 2025
Trump’s Tariffs Make Intra-Africa Trade a Must
According to The Banker, African nations are strengthening economic ties with the United States as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) approaches expiration, prompting discussions about how to sustain trade benefits and attract investment beyond the program’s framework. The U.S. remains a key trade partner for many African countries, particularly in sectors such as textiles, energy, and agriculture, yet analysts emphasize that AGOA’s limited uptake by some eligible nations reflects structural challenges, including inadequate infrastructure and regulatory barriers. Policymakers are calling for a more comprehensive approach that incorporates digital trade, climate finance, and industrial development to deepen U.S.–Africa relations and align with Africa’s continental integration goals under the AfCFTA.
South African Rand Steady, Investor Focus Shifts to Possible U.S.-China Trade Deal
According to MSN, The South African rand held steady as investors turned their attention to the potential for a new trade deal between the United States and China, which could influence global market sentiment. The currency’s stability followed modest gains supported by a softer U.S. dollar and improving risk appetite in emerging markets. Analysts noted that while domestic economic challenges and power supply issues continue to weigh on South Africa’s outlook, optimism around easing global trade tensions and potential foreign investment flows helped support the rand’s position in the short term.
Afreximbank’s New President Unveils “Decadal Vision” for African Trade
According to NewsDay Zimbabwe, Newly appointed Afreximbank President Mrs. Kanayo Awani unveiled a ten-year strategic plan aimed at deepening intra-African trade, boosting industrialization, and strengthening the continent’s financial independence. The vision prioritizes expanding support for small and medium-sized enterprises, developing regional value chains, and accelerating implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Awani emphasized that Afreximbank will focus on innovative financing mechanisms, trade-enabling infrastructure, and policies to reduce Africa’s dependence on external markets, aligning the institution’s next decade with the continent’s broader economic transformation agenda.
Cameroon’s 92-year-old President Wins Controversial Eight Term
According to BBC News, Cameroon’s 92-year-old president, Paul Biya, who has ruled since 1982, continues to maintain a firm grip on power despite mounting concerns about his health and the country’s political future. Rare public appearances and prolonged absences have fueled speculation about his ability to govern, while opposition figures and analysts warn that the lack of a clear succession plan could create instability in the event of a sudden transition. Supporters, however, credit Biya with preserving stability in a country marked by regional conflicts and economic challenges, even as calls grow for generational change and democratic reform.
U.S.-Africa Week Ahead: China, Trade, and Drugs
According to The Africa Report, The upcoming U.S.-Africa week will center on discussions about trade relations, China’s expanding influence on the continent, and cooperative efforts to combat drug trafficking. The meetings come as African leaders seek to diversify economic partnerships and secure greater benefits from trade frameworks like the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), while Washington aims to strengthen its geopolitical and economic engagement in response to China’s deepening presence. Alongside trade talks, security issues—including the growing flow of illicit drugs across West Africa—are expected to feature prominently as both sides explore strategies to enhance stability and economic resilience.
Angola Makes Bold Move to Acquire De Beers Stake Amid Strategic Shift
According to Africanews, Angola is making a strategic move to acquire De Beers’ stake in its diamond operations, signaling a broader effort to gain greater control over its natural resources and maximize domestic value from the mining sector. The potential deal aligns with the government’s push to reform the diamond industry by prioritizing local beneficiation, transparency, and state participation. Analysts view the move as part of Angola’s broader economic diversification agenda, aiming to attract investment while ensuring that resource wealth more directly benefits the national economy.
Nigerian Billionaire Plans Expansion of Africa’s Biggest Oil Refinery
According to Africanews, Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote plans to expand Africa’s largest oil refinery to increase output and further reduce the continent’s dependence on imported fuel. The expansion aims to enhance production capacity beyond the refinery’s current 650,000 barrels per day, with expectations that it will stabilize regional fuel supplies and create new export opportunities. The project is also expected to boost Nigeria’s economic growth by improving energy security, generating jobs, and attracting foreign investment, positioning the country as a key player in Africa’s downstream oil market.
Moonshot 2025: Can Africa's Startups Challenge Global Tech Giants?
According to Africanews, The “Moonshot 2025” initiative spotlights Africa’s rapidly growing tech startup ecosystem and its potential to compete with global technology giants. African entrepreneurs are leveraging innovation in sectors such as fintech, agritech, and renewable energy to address local challenges and attract international investment. Despite funding constraints and infrastructure gaps, the continent’s youthful population, expanding digital connectivity, and supportive policy reforms are driving momentum. Analysts suggest that with sustained investment and regional collaboration, African startups could play a transformative role in shaping the global digital economy.
U.S.-Africa Envoy sees Positive Progress on Extension of AGOA
According to MSN, U.S. Special Envoy for Africa Michael Hammer expressed optimism about extending the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), citing constructive discussions between Washington and African nations. Hammer emphasized that both sides recognize the importance of the trade program in supporting economic growth, job creation, and regional integration across the continent. While negotiations continue ahead of AGOA’s scheduled expiration, he noted that the U.S. is committed to ensuring a smooth transition that maintains strong commercial ties and aligns with Africa’s broader development priorities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
South Africa’s Lamola cites “Positive Vibes” on AGOA
According to MSN, South Africa’s Justice Minister Ronald Lamola reported “positive vibes” surrounding discussions on the renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), expressing confidence that the trade pact will be extended. Speaking after engagements with U.S. officials, Lamola highlighted South Africa’s commitment to maintaining strong economic relations with the United States and emphasized the program’s role in supporting regional development and industrial growth. The remarks come amid broader diplomatic efforts by African leaders to secure AGOA’s continuation and adapt it to evolving trade and investment priorities across the continent.
African Development Banks Set to Expand Lending as Capital Buffers Rise
According to MSN, The African Development Bank (AfDB) and other regional development banks are expected to increase lending as their capital buffers strengthen, according to a report by S&P Global Ratings. The improved financial position follows efforts to enhance capitalization and manage credit risk amid growing demand for infrastructure and climate-related financing across Africa. Analysts noted that higher lending capacity will enable these banks to play a greater role in supporting sustainable development, energy transition projects, and private-sector growth, helping to offset financing shortfalls caused by global economic uncertainty and tighter monetary conditions.
U.S. Congress has Until End of Year to Decide on AGOA Extension
According to Kenyans.co.ke, Massad Boulos, a senior advisor on African affairs to U.S. President Donald Trump, stated that the U.S. Congress has until the end of the year to decide on extending the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Boulos emphasized that the decision will be crucial for maintaining U.S.-Africa trade relations and supporting economic development across the continent. He also underscored the importance of creating a more balanced partnership that encourages investment and job creation in both regions, noting that African nations are increasingly looking to diversify trade ties amid global competition from powers like China.
Lamola Confident South Africa will get Extension on AGOA when U.S. Gov’t Reopens
According to Eyewitness News (EWN), South Africa’s Justice Minister Ronald Lamola expressed confidence that the United States will grant an extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) once the U.S. government reopens following its temporary shutdown. Lamola reaffirmed that South Africa continues to meet AGOA eligibility requirements and highlighted the program’s significance for sustaining bilateral trade and supporting local industries. He also noted that ongoing diplomatic engagement between Pretoria and Washington demonstrates mutual commitment to preserving and strengthening the trade relationship under the long-standing U.S.–Africa partnership.
Calls Raising to Grow and Develop Intra-Africa Trade
According to Black Star News, There is growing momentum across the continent to strengthen and expand intra-African trade as a pathway to sustainable economic growth and reduced dependence on foreign markets. Policymakers, business leaders, and regional institutions are urging African nations to accelerate implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by addressing barriers such as inadequate infrastructure, tariff misalignments, and limited access to finance. Advocates argue that deeper regional integration would enhance industrialization, job creation, and resilience against global economic shocks, positioning Africa as a more self-reliant and competitive player in the global economy.
Powering Trade Through Transport
According to TimesLIVE, Improving transport and logistics infrastructure is key to enhancing trade efficiency across Africa and unlocking the continent’s full economic potential. Experts emphasize that streamlined transportation networks - spanning roads, railways, ports, and air routes - are essential for reducing trade costs, improving supply chain reliability, and connecting producers to regional and global markets. Ongoing investments and policy coordination among African nations aim to align with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework, fostering integration and positioning Africa as a competitive player in global commerce.
Events – 10/27/2025
“Africa Renewables Investment Summit 2025”. Invest Africa. Cape Town, South Africa. 5-6 November 2025.