Browsing: economic growth

Kenya's economy
  • In 2023, Kenya’s economy experienced real GDP growth, surging from 4.8% in 2022 to an estimated 5 per cent.
  • Kenya’s agriculture, which had grappled with severe drought, recovered with critical crops, such as tea and coffee, displaying remarkable resilience.
  • High cost of living, exchange rate pressures, and global economic uncertainties remain persistent risks to growth this year.

In 2023, Kenya’s economy strengthened, defying persistent challenges as highlighted in the World Bank’s 28th edition of the Kenya Economic Update (KEU). Despite facing continued hurdles, East Africa’s biggest economy experienced an acceleration in real GDP growth, surging from 4.8 per cent in 2022 to an estimated 5 per cent in 2023.

This economic performance is a testament to Kenya’s ability to navigate adversities and build a foundation for sustainable economic growth.

Agriculture helped revive Kenya’s economy in 2023

A key factor contributing to Kenya’s revival of economic performance in 2023 was the …

visa-free entry policy in Kenya
  • President William Ruto’s announcement of Kenya’s visa-free entry policy for all visitors starting January 2024 marks a paradigm shift in the region’s economic and social landscape.
  • The policy is expected to boost Kenya’s economy by attracting more tourists and business travellers, thus increasing revenue and foreign exchange.
  • Addressing the accompanying challenges will be crucial to ensuring the policy’s success and sustainable growth in the region.

Kenya, a country known for its rich wildlife, vibrant culture, and dynamic economy, is poised to make a significant leap in becoming a hub for investors and business in East Africa. President William Ruto’s announcement of Kenya’s visa-free entry policy for all visitors starting January 2024 marks a paradigm shift in the region’s economic and social landscape. As the visa-free entry date nears, it is important to explore how Kenya is set to redefine the dynamics of business and investment in East Africa.

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Nigeria's inflation rate
  • Nigeria’s inflation rate has remained high for the past 9 years, way before COVID-19 and the disruptions it imposed.
  • Experts have argued that Nigeria’s inflation results from excess money supply in the economic system chasing too few goods.
  • Nigeria’s inflation climbed to a new 18-year high in November, matching a record level last seen in 2005.

In 2021, the global economy experienced an inflation surge. This was the first time in many decades that inflation hit double digits in most developed and emerging economies. In the United States, inflation peaked at 9.1 per cent in July 2022, the highest in 40 years.

Such high levels of inflation were unusual and uncomfortable, and the Central Banks in the affected countries tackled it ruthlessly. The applied policy actions paid off and inflation has been moderating fast.

However, what obtains in Nigeria paints a starkly different image from what the rest of the …

President Bola Tinubu's economic policies have resulted in an upgrade of Nigeria's credit ratings
  • In a significant move by Moody’s Investors Service, Nigeria’s credit rating has been upgraded from stable to positive.
  • The devaluation of the Naira and the reduction of the oil subsidy are seen as bold steps towards fiscal responsibility. 
  • The recent devaluation of the Naira, a significant move by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, carries profound implications for Nigeria’s credit rating.

In a significant move by Moody’s Investors Service, Nigeria’s credit rating has been upgraded from stable to positive. This shift, while not altering the country’s credit rating, marks a potential turning point for the nation’s fiscal and economic health. The December 9th upgrade reflects the Nigerian government’s concerted efforts to stabilize its economy, spearheaded by President Bola Tinubu, amid a complex tapestry of challenges and reforms.

Credit ratings, as determined by agencies like Moody’s, are pivotal in the global economic landscape. They are a barometer for a nation’s creditworthiness, impacting …

Joseph Kony | The Exchange

The whereabouts of Joseph Kony, the infamous leader of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), remains one of the most enduring mysteries in international justice and African politics. Despite extensive efforts to capture him, Kony continues to evade justice, with his exact location a subject of much speculation and few definitive answers.…

Russia-Africa ties
  • In recent years, Moscow has focused on building new Russia-Africa ties.
  • Russia is interested in searching for new economic markets and geopolitical influence in Africa.
  • Russia’s trade with African economies stood at only $18 billion in 2022.

In recent years, Moscow has focused on building new Russia-Africa ties. Russia is invigorating alliances developed during the Cold War when the former Soviet Union supported socialist movements across Africa.

Following the Soviet Union’s collapse in 1991, Moscow largely withdrew from the continent. However, since at least 2007, Russia has refocused its involvement and influence in Africa.

Over the years, Russia has contracted with over 30 African countries to provide military equipment and armaments. Businesses, including state-backed commercial interests, have invested significantly in technology security sectors and industries that extract natural resources, including oil, gas, gold, and other minerals.

“Russia is clearly interested, in search of new economic markets and geopolitical influence in …

African startups

Africa has today emerged as a fertile ground for groundbreaking startups. As 2024 approaches, the continent’s startup scene is buzzing with activity, marked by impressive funding rounds and strategic expansions. This trend is a fleeting moment and a testament to African entrepreneurship’s resilient and dynamic spirit.

The Exchange Africa spotlights five startups thriving and redefining the business landscape in their respective sectors. From renewable energy solutions in the Democratic Republic of Congo to digital health platforms in Kenya, these companies embody the ingenuity and potential of Africa’s business ecosystem. They attract significant investment and are poised to substantially impact their communities.…

African Securities Exchanges Association
  • Nairobi, Kenya, will be the site of the highly anticipated Annual Conference of the African Securities Exchanges Association (ASEA) from November 22nd to 24th, 2023. 
  • The African Securities Exchanges Association has played a pivotal role in moulding Africa’s financial scene.
  • A partnership of financial firms, the African Securities Exchanges Association is a key player in Africa’s economic revival. Its ability to promote inclusive growth, knowledge sharing, and cooperation is crucial.

Nairobi, Kenya, will be the site of the highly anticipated Annual Conference of the African Securities Exchanges Association (ASEA) from November 22nd to 24th, 2023, drawing the attention of the financial community of Africa. Positioning for Growth: Unlocking Africa’s Stock Exchange Potential for Sustained Economic Development is more than simply a debate topic; it’s a rallying cry for an economic revolution that is about to happen on the African continent.

The African Securities Exchanges Conglomerate (ASEA) has played a pivotal

US-Africa relations

United States officials and politicians have shown much interest and support for renewing the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) as its expiration date approaches in September 2025. The fate of this landmark legislation, which provides duty-free access to the US markets for some African countries, remains uncertain for the next 22 months but has significant implications for trade between the United States and Africa.…