Insights

The Eastern Africa Association is a source of insightful and helpful publications, guides, and advice for all visitors to our website. Contributors include EAA analysts, our Members, and a wide range of experts and official commentators. As a key service for Members only, we produce a regular Newsletter which contains our analysis of developments in the region.

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MAURITIUS IFC – BTG GROUP

Mauritius IFC – a strategic platform for global investors

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UGANDA ECONOMIC LANDSCAPE REVIEW

EAA Members’ Meeting- November 2024 Economic Landscape Review – Uganda By Robin Bairstow Chief Executive Officer – I&M Bank Uganda

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EAA / KODY AFRICA LLP – OVERVIEW OF TAX LAWS AMENDMENT BILL AND TAX PROCEDURES BILL 2024

Eastern Africa Association December 2024 – Overview of Tax Laws Amendment Bill and Tax Procedures Bill, 2024

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Rwanda Update. December 2024

Rwanda continues to be politically stable with an economy that is performing well.  Debt levels are increasing but the country is still rated as stable.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Somalia, Somaliland Update. December 2024

Latest developments in Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Somalia and Somaliland

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BUSINESS RESILIENCE FOR SUSTAINABLE GROWTH

At stake is the opportunity to free up funds, reduce the cost of capital and make investment go further in periods of uncertainty. PwC Working Capital Study 24/25

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TAX PRESENTATION AT THE EAA BY BOWMANS

Implications of the nullification of the Finance Act 2023 Eastern Africa Association (EAA)

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Rwanda Update. October 2024

The Marburg virus has raised concern in Rwanda but with the same type of efficiency that was used during Covid-19, the Government appears to be in control of the situation and it is believed that the issue will be over in the extreme short-term.  Rwanda is back to the top of the pack in the World Bank’s replacement for Doing Business with “Business-Ready”, a testament to the country’s bid to make it an attractive investment destination.  The economy is performing well and is expected to continue doing so.

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EASTERN AFRICA ASSOCIATION PRESENTATION – LIMA LABS

How AI is unlocking value for farmers in Kenya-September 2024

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EASTERN AFRICA ASSOCIATION RISHIT SHAH PRESENTATION-PwC TZ

Eastern Africa Association September 2024 – Presentation by Rishit Shah – PwC TZ

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Rwanda Update. September 2024

With the elections over and President Paul Kagame sworn in for his fourth term, Rwanda remains politically stable.  Economically the country is headed towards double digit growth again.  Inflation is largely under control and the currency, while still depreciating is doing so at a lower rate.

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Somalia, Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti Update. September 2024

Latest developments in Somalia, Burundi, South Sudan and Djibouti

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26th September, 2024

East Africa Markets’ Update: Ethiopia’s economic reforms, AU’s leadership bids & EU’s deforestation rules

Join us for a virtual breakfast meeting  on 26th September 8.30AM to 9.30AM covering latest developments in East Africa’s market landscapes. https://forms.office.com/e/GXF66SAdAF This session will cover Ethiopia’s ambitious economic reforms; the recent changes to the foreign currency market and the immediate impact this has on businesses and future investments in the country. We’ll also discuss the region’s

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25th July, 2024

WEBINAR- Redefining Africa -UK Relations under the Labour Government. Thursday 25th July 10 AM BST

The recent victory by the UK’s Labour Party provides a timely moment to reassess the party’s Foreign policy, particularly its relations with Africa. Conservative-led governments all but ignored the growing importance of Africans on the global stage over the past 14 years, and they consistently underestimated the contribution of African migrants to the UK’s economy.

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Ethiopia’s IMF backed reforms prompts currency devaluation by 30%

Ethiopia’s economic transformation Ethiopia is undergoing economic transformation following Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s announcement of a comprehensive macroeconomic overhaul on July 28th. This bold and eagerly awaited decision shifts Ethiopia to an interest rate-based monetary policy and a market-based foreign exchange rate. According to officials, the new policies aim to curb inflation and enhance banking

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Kenya Special Report 2 – August 2024

Thursday 8th August promises to be an interesting day and one only hopes that the protests will be peaceful and that the security forces will not escalate matters with a heavy-handed approach. Of course, Gen Z, again, should be reminded that State House is a restricted area.

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4th September, 2024

Eastern Africa Association Members’ Breakfast Meeting in Nairobi – 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM

Presentations will incude: an overview on how Artificial Intelligence is unlocking value for commercial farmers in East Africa; a look on political risks in the region; an update on the latest tax developments in Tanzania, and, a high-level analysis of what is happening politically and economically in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Ethiopia

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Kenya Special Report – 31 July 2024

It is difficult to predict what will happen going forward. Perhaps, there are only two certainties for now: 1. That the President will not resign, and, 2. Gen Z will not give up.

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AN OVERVIEW OF THE NHIF / SHIF AND AHA CONUNDRUM

An overview of the NHIF / SHIF and AHA conundrum – Presentation to the Eastern Africa Association

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CYBER SECURITY

Enhancing cyber resiliency for organizations to propel East Africa’s digital economy

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Rwanda Update. July 2024

Rwanda’s general election, deemed by observers to be free, fair and credible, resulted in another landslide for President Paul Kagame.  He will be in office for the next five years.  The economy continues to grow at a fast pace making Rwanda’s economy one of the fastest growing in the world.

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DIGITAL LIFESTYLE CHANGE – FROM PAPER TRAILS – TO AI TALES: EAA MEMBERS’ MEETING PRESENTATION: By Béla Tóth, Itiner Digital, Hungary – 05-06-2024

TURNING BUSINESS PROCESS INTO BUSINESS PROGRESS

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EASTERN AFRICA ASSOCIATION / KODY AFRICA LLP – OVERVIEW OF FINANCE BILL 2024

Eastern Africa Business Association June 2024 – Overview of Tax – Finance Bill, 2024

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Rwanda Update. June 2024

The General Election will be held in July and the number of candidates standing for the various positions is quite high.  The economy is growing and edging back towards double-digit growth.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Somalia Update. June 2024

Latest developments in Burundi, South Sudan and Somalia

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15th May, 2024

60th Anniversary of the Eastern Africa Association Cocktail Reception in Nairobi

EAA 60th Anniversary Cocktail Reception in Nairobi – 15th May 2024 at the Nairobi Serena Hotel

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AFFORDABLE HOUSING LEVY

The Affordable Housing Levy (AHL) was introduced by the Finance Act 2023. However, the AHL has been subject to legal contest at the High Court and Court of Appeal that challenged the constitutionality of the AHL Levy primarily on its lack of a comprehensive framework for the administration of the levy.

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REGIONAL SECURTY ROUND UP

Mohit Sahni – MSc Countering Organised Crime and Terrorism

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KAM EAA Presentation-24-04-2024

KAM IMF Presentation on 8th April 2024 by Anthony Mwangi CEO

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Rwanda Update. April 2024

A general election will be held in July 2024 and preparation including voter education and agent training is underway.  The economy continues to grow at a pace significantly higher than the average for Sub-Saharan Africa, although there are downside risks that could destabilise this.

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Rwanda at a Glance by I & M Bank, Rwanda

The government plans to introduce several tax policy measures envisioned in the Rwanda Medium Term Revenue Strategy (MTRS) aiming at improving revenue administration and cutting tax rates while broadening the tax base.

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East African petroleum sector: An overview of regional and global trends in the East African petroleum sector

2024 remains to be an eventful year in the Kenyan and East African petroleum sector. As governments and regulators grapple with inflation, dollar liquidity and energy security concerns, manufactures and businesses need a reliable energy partner to offer clarity during uncertain times.

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Introducing eTiMS: How to ensure successful eTIMs integration for your business by eBiashara

In 2023, KRA introduced Etims, a cloud-based software, an upgrade of TIMS that makes it easy for VAT- registered businesses to connect their accounting system to KRA without the need to use ETR TIMS devices

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Rwanda Update. March 2024

A General Election will be held on 15th July 2024 but there is unlikely to be a change in leadership.  The economy is growing well and is projected to continue to do so,

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia Update. March 2024

Latest developments in Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia

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TAX PRESENTATION

•Pursuant to the ruling of the Court of Appeal delivered on 19 January 2024, the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023 became operational effectively replacing the NHIF Act. •The draft Social Health Insurance (General) Regulations, 2023 set the monthly deductions at 2.75% of an individual’s gross salary or wage of the household. The contribution is not capped.

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UGANDA SITUATION REPORT

Uganda hosted the 19th Summit of Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Heads of State and Government, a forum of 120 member states from 15 to 20 January 2024, at the Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort. Then from 21 to 23 January, at the same venue, Uganda hosted the Third South Summit organized under the framework of Group 77 and China, a loose alliance of developing countries.

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KENYA PROPERTY MARKET UPDATE

KENYA MARKET UPDATE – H2 2023 Boniface Abudho – Research Analyst, Africa

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Rwanda Update. January 2024

2024 will see elections being held in Rwanda but there is unlikely to be any change on the political front.  The country is showing impressive economic growth and inflation has reduced to the target range.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia Update. January 2024

Latest developments in Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia

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CYBER SECURITY

Mastering cyber security resilience in today’s digital economy.

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TRIFIC OVERVIEW

Amplifying Africa’s talent powerhouse and growth potential and Kenya’s advancement in innovator services and role as a leading regional hub through the TRIFIC Special Economic Zone

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Enterprise Singapore

Trade between Singapore and Africa has been steady with CAGR growth of around 15% from 2019 to 2022; Singapore is among the top 10 investors in Africa

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Rwanda Update. December 2023

Rwanda continues to be politically stable with an economy that is outperforming many of its neighbours.  However, inflationary pressures continue, although, it does seem to be subsiding.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia Update. December 2023

Latest developments in Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia

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EAST AFRICA REGIONAL INSURANCE INDUSTRY OUTLOOK

The Insurance Landscape – by Kashif Chaudhry

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Rwanda Update. October 2023

It is now apparent that President Paul Kagame will once again vie for the Presidency in 2024, which, at least, from the perspective of Rwandans, is welcome.  It will be important, should he be re-elected, for the President to set out a succession plan.  On the economic front, Rwanda continues to perform well and there appear to be several opportunities for investors.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia Update. October 2023

Latest developments in Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia

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The Rise of Nairobi as a Regional Hub for International Arbitration: An Economic Perspective

  By Agnes Gitau – Executive Director UK & EU – Eastern Africa Association Nairobi has been positioning itself as a formidable regional hub for international arbitration. The foundation for this emerging status was significantly fortified during the inaugural Nairobi Arbitration Week (September 2023). Organized by the Nairobi Centre for International Arbitration, this event witnessed

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Rwanda Update. September 2023

Rwanda remains politically stable.  Its economy is growing at a faster pace than others in the region and indeed Sub-Saharan Africa.  It continues to face inflationary pressures but these are believed to be on a downward trend.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia Update. September 2023

Latest developments in Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia

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Overview of The Kenya Finance Act 2023

INTRODUCTION The Finance Act (“the Act”), 2023 received Presidential assent on 26th June 2023. Most of the changes will be effective from 1st July 2023, which is the Government’s fiscal year, while a few will be effective from 1st September 2023 and 1st January 2024. Most of the proposed changes in the Finance Bill, 2023

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Energy & Infrastructure

TRENDS IN ENERGY & INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT IN EAST AND SOUTHERN AFRICA

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Securex-Protest-Notice

Given the potential impact of previous protests on people and businesses, we recognize the importance of proactive risk assessment and mitigation strategies. Therefore, as we approach the scheduled protests, we request you to take the time to peruse through our proposed mitigation strategies for yourself, your loved ones, and your business to ensure safety and

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EAA Business Briefing Ethiopia

The Eastern African Association (EAA), in collaboration with the Ethiopia Embassy, London and Ethiopia Investment Commission (EIC), organised a hybrid business roundtable to brief UK investors on Ethiopia’s Economic and Political Reforms. This report provides an overview of the event’s discussion on the significant reforms implemented by the Ethiopian federal government to attract international investment and strengthen its economic and political systems.

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Rwanda Update. July 2023

No changes on the political front although an election is due in 2024.  Economically, Rwanda continues to perform well, but does seem to be facing some headwinds at the moment.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia Update. July 2023

Latest developments in Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia

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Rwanda Update. June 2023

Politically Rwanda remains stable, and its economy is growing.  However, inflationary pressures are creating a cost-of-living issue which the Government is handling but has a long way to go.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia Update. June 2023

Latest developments in Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia

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Rwanda Update. Apr 2023

It appears that Presidential succession is now being discussed in a politically stable environment.  The Government is introducing tax reforms to ease the burden of taxation.  Inflation continues to be high but the economy is performing with good growth.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia Update. Apr 2023

Latest developments in Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia

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Rwanda Update. Mar 2023

No changes on the political front.  The economy is performing well but inflationary pressures are becoming an issue that have resulted in increased interest rates.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia Update. Mar 2023

Latest developments in Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia

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Rwanda Update. Jan 2023

Politically the country remains stable with elections set to be held in 2024.  Tensions with the DRC are increasing which could impact regional stability.  The economy, particularly the service sector, is growing well but inflationary pressures are an issue.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia Update. Jan 2023

Latest developments in Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia

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East Africa Headlines

Global telecom service provider Iristel expands into Kenya Tanzania: ZAFICO to go solo in Zanzibar fish processing project after Sri Lankan partner pulls out Kenya Airways Stock Suspension extended as restructure drags on Tanzania: Julius Nyerere hydroelectric dam impoundment launched Kenya: Construction slows to 4.3% as raw material demand softens

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Africa outlook 2023: Facing multiple challenges, but holding enormous potential

Agnes Gitau, the EAA’s Executive Director UK & Europe, writes about the difficult year ahead for Africa, but says beyond the headlines of bad politics, Africans will continue with business-as-usual innovating and designing products that respond to the challenges.

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Rwanda Update. Dec 2022

Rwanda continues to be politically stable, and its economy remains resilient.  However, inflationary pressures are taking a toll on poverty in the country.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia Update. Dec 2022

Latest developments in Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia Update. Oct 2022

Latest developments in Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia

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7th September, 2022

60 minute update on the Region for Members – virtual

The EAA will hold a one hour virtual briefing, to update Members on political and economic developments in Eastern Africa. With the Kenyan presidential elections in the rear-view mirror, we will focus on the outcome and what it means for international investors. 7th September 12 noon UK time.

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Uganda Update. April 2022

There are no significant developments on the political front, while concerns over human rights and the potential for further sanctions remain.  Covid-19 appears to be well under control.  The economy is recovering but at a slower pace than originally anticipated.

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East Africa Economic Analysis April 2021

During our members’ global meeting in April 2021, Jibran Qureshi, Head, Africa Research and FIC Strategy, Standard Bank Group presented on the current state of the economies in the Eastern Africa region. You can view his presentation by clicking on the link below: Jibran Qureishi Head, Africa Research Standard Bank Economic Outlook

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Regional competition law enforcement

As regional trade within Eastern Africa grows, in September 2021 members heard an insightful presentation from Joyce Karanja, Partner, Bowmans Law, and EAA Advisory Board Member on “Regional Competition Enforcement”, COMESA and EAC perspectives. You can view her presentation by clicking on the link below: Joyce Karanja, Partner Bowmans Kenya on Regional Competition Enforcement

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On East African Debt and Bottom-up Economics

Professor XN Iraki, University of Nairobi / Editor, African Journal of Business Management and Columnist for the Standard Newspaper provided his view and outlook on East African economies with a special focus on – the debt conundrum and bottom-up economics, at the September global meeting (1st September 2021). You can view his presentation by clicking

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Ethiopia Update November 2021

The future of the Tigray conflict is entirely dependent on concessions being made by both sides to allow talks to open up.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia update Nov 2021

Updates from Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia

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Commentary: Democratic Republic of Congo Jan 2022

On 23rd November 2021, the Ministers responsible for East African Community (EAC) Affairs recommended to Member State Leaders the entry of the DRC into the economic block. Our commentary sets out some background on this vast country and what opportunities lie in store for investors.

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Kenya update January 2022

As the general election nears, there is concern of disruptions and the impact that this could have on the economy.

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Tanzania update January 2022

The outlook for investors and operators in Tanzania continues to improve with a raft of measures being taken to simplify the business environment and improve the economic and political climate in the country.

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Uganda update January 2022

Uganda remains in the same place politically with no viable opposition. The economy is slowly recovering and the reopening in January 2022 should help this.

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Rwanda update January 2022

The country is showing a rebound after the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. The virus is under control and a large part of the population has been vaccinated.

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Ethiopia update January 2022

After 18 months of conflict, the new year has seen the first hopeful signs of a diplomatic process to solve the Tigray crisis, with steps towards National Dialogue.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia update Jan 2022

Updates from Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia

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Letter from the CEO, March 2022

On Ukraine, and the Kenyan elections

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Kenya Update Sept 2021

An election in 2022 is creating some uncertainty, particularly as regards succession.

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Tanzania Update Sept 2021

Democracy remains under threat with the arrest of opposition leaders. The President seems committed to economic progress for the country and there does appear to be a general sense of optimism in the population.

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Uganda Update Sept 2021

Covid-19 cases were declining but have risen again in August. The vaccine roll-out is progressing. There are no major changes in the political scene.

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Rwanda Update Sept 2021

Covid-19 lockdowns are being eased and economic activity is showing signs of recovery. Politically the country remains stable.

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Ethiopia Update September 2021

The Tigray conflict appears to be escalating and spreading to other parts of the country, threatening a deteriorating security situation more broadly in the country.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia update Sept 2021

Updates from Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia

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Letter from the CEO, October 2021

Introducting themes of debt and corruption

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Commentary: Debt and Bottom Up Economics. Oct 2021

Professor XN Iraki builds on the theme of the growing debt burden and the impact it is having on Kenya and other nations in the region.

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Kenya Update October 2021

Covid-19 cases are declining and the vaccination programme is well underway. Politically there is some uncertainty around the 2022 election and the succession.

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Tanzania Update October 2021

The outlook is largely dependent on the extent of changes to Covid-19 policies – the Socio-economic Response Plan – as well as the broader policy and reform agenda.

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Uganda Update October 2021

There appears to be an increasing push towards new leadership with opposition parties joining forces.

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Rwanda Update October 2021

Politically, Rwanda remains, stable but the country’s actions towards perceived “enemies” of the state is drawing global criticism.

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Ethiopia Update October 2021

A new Government is in place and the inclusion of three opposition members in the Cabinet is positive.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia update Oct 2021

Updates from Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia

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Letter from the CEO, November 2021

EAA CEO reflects on the year

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Commentary: Reflections on Tanzania November 2021

After a period in the investment outhouse, risks are definitely becoming more manageable again. The business environment may still be relatively speaking opaque, but it’s certainly worth getting in early.

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Kenya Update November 2021

Political uncertainty could make the next twelve months difficult although the economy is showing signs of recovery.

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Tanzania Update November 2021

With the tourism sector set to finally make a come-back in 2022, major investment projects beginning to take off, exports increasing and foreign investors beginning to feel confident to invest in Tanzania again, there are positive signs for the economy.

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Uganda Update November 2021

Opposition parties are looking to a post President Museveni future which is not by any means a guarantee.

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Rwanda Update November 2021

Politically Rwanda remains stable with a marked reduction in Covid infections and a high vaccine roll-out which is fuelling an impressive economic recovery.

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Ethiopia Update April 2021

Ethiopia is faced with a number of challenges over the next few months that could well derail what had previously been quite a positive development prospect for the country. It is unlikely that the Government will be able to draw a line under the Tigray conflict, the elections are likely to be sub-optimal

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia update April 2021

Updates from Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia

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Letter from the CEO June 2021

The EAA starts looking at the landscape of opportunity and risk in the region.

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Commentary: Business opportunities and risks in East Africa June 2021

EAA CEO Toby Latta talks to Tara O’Connor of Africa Risk Consulting about opportunities and risks in the region

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Kenya Update June 2021

Political stability is becoming a concern and the economy is struggling with the impact of Covid-19. The vaccination drive while launched has slowed down because of a lack of doses.

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Tanzania Update June 2021

Tanzania is beginning to show its economic potential again and investors once again are showing interest. Politically matters remain stable. The acknowledgment that Covid-19 presents a serious threat is a welcome development.

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Uganda Update June 2021

On the political front there are growing concerns that the opposition is being supressed with heavy handed tactics and the world is taking note of this. Economically, a good start to 2021 is being impeded by a surge in Covid-19 cases.

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Rwanda Update June 2021

Covid-19 is being brought under control but availability of vaccines could become an issue. The economy is expected to pick up in 2021 and politically the country remains largely stable.

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Ethiopia Update June 2021

Covid-19 infections have shown a significant downturn during May 2021. Elections are due to be held later this month which, if not peaceful, may set the country back. Ethiopia continues to open up to foreign investors.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia update June 2021

Updates from Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia

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Letter from the CEO July 2021

EAA CEO Toby Latta introduces results from the Members’ survey

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Commentary: Opportunities and Risks in the region, Members’ Survey July 2021

The EAA analyses the results of its Members survey on the opportunities and risks in the region

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Kenya update July 2021

Covid-19 cases are on the rise and the country appears to be heading into another wave. Politically, while relatively stable at the moment, matters could change rapidly as the country moves towards the election.

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Tanzania Update July 2021

Politically, there is a fly in the ointment with the recent arrest of opposition leaders. The country is finally monitoring Covid-19 which is important in bringing it back into the global fold. With regard to the economy, the President is certainly looking to keep her inauguration promises.

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Uganda Update July 2021

Covid-19 infections are showing a significant rise in June which resulted in the country’s second lockdown which is due to come to an end in July. The economy, while showing signs of recovery in the early part of the year, has slowed down again. Politically there has been little or no change since the election.

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Rwanda Update July 2021

Rising Covid infections are a concern and likely to impact economic growth. Nonetheless, the country remains largely stable on the political front.

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Ethiopia Update July 2021

An unsettled period lies ahead, with the ongoing conflict and an election yet to be completed. All in all, the Prime Minister’s Parliamentary mandate will be important for economic growth going forward.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia update July 2021

Updates from Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia

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Letter from the CEO, September 2021

Introduction to the September 2021 Newsletter

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Commentary: Competition law in E. Africa Sept 2021

This commentary follows the presentation by Joyce Karanja, a partner at Bowmans Kenya and specialist in competition law. It contains some of the key points for competition rules in COMESA and the EAC.

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Covid Update March 2021

Analysis of global and regional trends in the pandemic

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Kenya update March 2021

The country may be headed to a third wave of the pandemic. Politically matters are in a state of flux whilst the economy is showing signs of revival.

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Tanzania update March 2021

The Covid-19 situation, despite Government denial, is likely to have a major impact on Tanzania’s economy and its relationship with the rest of the world. Politics will probably revolve around the push for constitutional change.

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Uganda update March 2021

As long as the national and global impact of Covid restrictions continue it is difficult to see any prospect of an improvement in the economic situation in the near to medium term future.

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Rwanda Update March 2021

The sudden surge in Covid-19 cases in January seems to be coming under control. The political scene is largely stable. The economy has gone into recession and faces an uphill struggle to get back to its pre-Covid position.

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Ethiopia update March 2021

The Covid-19 numbers are increasing and perhaps being fuelled by the civil unrest. Politically the country, while firmly under the control of the Central Government, is somewhat unstable and is likely to be so till the elections are held. 2021 will be a difficult year economically for the country.

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia update March 2021

Updates from Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia

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Commentary: East Africa Economic Outlook April 2021

The latest indicators suggest a broad-based recovery is on the cards in East Africa following a relatively robust economic performance last year. As a region as a whole, the latest figures from NKC African Economics suggest East Africa was able to eke out a 1.2% real GDP growth rate last year.

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Kenya update April 2021

Political uncertainty predicted for the next 18 months until the elections, while the economy shows signs of recovering from the pandemic decline

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Tanzania update April 2021

Tanzania’s new president indicates likely changes to the poltiical landscape are on the way

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Uganda Update April 2021

The economy is almost certain to continue in a weak and fragile state as long as Covid and the necessary restrictions to control it nationally and internationally remain in place. Politically no great change can be expected in the wake of Presidential elections

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Rwanda Update April 2021

Politically Rwanda remains largely stable and while Covid-19 cases surged in the early months of 2021, Government measures seem to have brought this under control. The economy was showing signs of recovery but the recent lock down may have reversed some of the gains.

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East Africa Covid update January 2021

Global and regional Covid developments Jan 21

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Kenya update January 2021

Political uncertainty but likely economic recovery as Kenya goes in to 2021

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Tanzania update January 2021

Post elections, Tanzania appears to be stable and economy doing well, according to govt figures

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Uganda update January 2021

Uncertain outlook given the variety of domestic and international political and economic pressures on the Ugandan Government.

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Rwanda Update January 2021

The country saw a surge in Covid-19 cases over the holiday season and immediately took steps to curtail further spread. Politically, Rwanda remains stable and the economy is showing signs of recovery.

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Ethiopia update January 2021

Unrest is threatening Ethiopia’s gains, but the government remains upbeat about the economy

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Burundi, South Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia update January 2021

Other updates from around the region

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Commentary: Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement. March 2021

At this time of COVID-19-induced economic and social woes, the African Continental Free Trade Area, (AfCFTA), has been hailed as a continental comeback strategy, and as a way for Africa to reposition itself on a global stage.

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January 2020 Newsletter – Somalia

SOMALIA The capital, Mogadishu, continues to suffer from terrorist attacks, with two quite recently killing a large number of people and gravely injuring many others, including some Turkish citizens working in the country.  The Al-Shabaab group is responsible for these, in an attempt to “intimidate and terrorise the Somali public” according to the country’s Prime

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January 2020 Newsletter – South Sudan

SOUTH SUDAN Following interventions by the Pope and the Anglican Archbishop of Canterbury, President Salva Kiir and rebel leader Riek Machar agreed (again) to form a transitional unity government by a February 2020 deadline, even if some key political issues have not been resolved by then.  Extending the deadline initially helped to maintain a ceasefire

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January 2020 Newsletter – Burundi

BURUNDI Condemnation of the deterioration of the human rights situation in the country ahead of elections scheduled to be held in May this year continues.  Some independent journalists have been arrested for being “compliant in threatening the security of the state”, with the state prosecutor seeking a 15-year prison term.  He has also called for

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January 2020 Newsletter- Rwanda

RWANDA POLITICS Although he has his critics, when Paul Kagame became Rwanda’s president in 2000, he inherited a country that had been torn apart by genocide.  To rebuild it he had to rely on mostly uneducated guerrilla fighters and a handful of ill-trained cadres.  Even the most optimistic of analysts doubted his chances and one

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January 2020 Newsletter – Eritrea

ERITREA In his New Year Address, President Isaias Afwerki spoke of the country being “perched on the pinnacle of hope and confidence” and that, “in addition to suspicious regional developments, the main factor to usher in a favourable future is our domestic strength and capabilities”.  He went on to say that “because we pursue an

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January 2020 Newsletter –

DJIBOUTI The country continues to court enhanced cooperation with China, following a recent meeting between President Guelleh and the Chinese Foreign Minister aimed at “expanding cooperation in the fields of blue and digital economy”.  The President indicated that “he was willing to actively participate in the joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative”, noting

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January 2020 Newsletter – Ethiopia

ETHIOPIA POLITICS He arrived with a great fanfare, bringing hope and optimism to a country that was riven with deep divides, civil unrest and soured relations with neighbouring countries. Initially, PM Abiy devoted his attention to regional matters, securing a peace deal with Eritrea, which earned him the Nobel Peace Prize, and cementing diplomatic ties

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January 2020 Newsletter – Tanzania

TANZANIA POLITICS Tanzania was not represented at the recent UK Africa Investment Summit, although Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and Ethiopia were all in attendance, together with their respective investment promotion agencies. The repressive political environment and deteriorating business climate were largely to blame as the country becomes an even less favoured destination for foreign investors. The

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January 2020 Newsletter – Kenya

KENYA POLITICS A round up Anyone who has witnessed Kenyan elections in the past will know that they are generally a season of musical chairs as new alliances are formed and old ones thrown out.  This is particularly true when an incumbent is coming to the end of his term.  The lead-up to the 2020

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January 2020 Newsletter – Uganda

UGANDA POLITICS “Walking against corruption” On the morning of 4th December 2019, President Museveni led a public walk against corruption from Constitution Square in central Kampala to the Kololo air strip which is used for ceremonial functions. The object of the walk was to raise awareness of corruption and mobilise the masses to fight it.

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Eastern Africa Members’ Survey on Business Climate, risks & opportunities

Toby Latta, CEO, Eastern Africa Association, shared members’ views that were received from a survey on the business climate, risks and opportunities in the region at the July global meeting of members’ (28th July 2021). EAA Members Survey opportunities and risks (1)

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East Africa Weekly Chronology – 8-14 Dec 2021

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ARC Briefing Monthly Chronology September 2021

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ARC Briefing Monthly Chronology August 2021

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ARC Briefing Monthly Chronology October 2021

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East Africa Weekly Chronology – 10-16 Nov 2021

EAA Members Survey