AFRICA DIGEST NEWS

Why South Africa’s Shift to EVs Isn’t as Simple as It Seems South Africa is moving toward electric vehicles (EVs), but one big question remains are they actually cheaper than petrol cars? The answer? It depends. ✅ Lower Running Costs – Charging an EV for 100 km costs R34.74, while petrol costs R144.65 for the same distance—76% more. ✅ Expensive Upfront, Cheaper Over Time – EVs cost 38% more on average than petrol cars, with some models going 52% higher. BMW Group iX1 xDrive30 xLine: R1,205,000 vs. #Petrol #BMW X1: R788,045 (R416,955 difference) Volvo Group XC40 Recharge: R1,108,000 vs. Petrol Volvo B4: R817,000 (R291,000 difference) ✅ Less Maintenance, Lower Service Costs – EVs have fewer moving parts, no oil changes, and require less upkeep. ✅ Eco-Friendly Benefits – Lower emissions, less pollution, and a step toward cleaner air in South Africa. What Needs to Happen? 💡 More Charging Stations – Expanding access beyond wealthy areas. 💡 Tax Cuts & Local Production – Making EVs more affordable. 💡 Solar-Powered Charging – Reducing reliance on the grid. What do you think? Here is more: https://lnkd.in/dt2Q2uRa #EV #SouthAfrica #CleanEnergy #Sustainability #ElectricVehicles

How Nigeria’s €7.6 Billion Deal with LONGi Solar Could Transform Its Energy Future Nigeria is making a bold move in the clean energy space with a €7.6 billion deal with China to develop green hydrogen. This landmark agreement, involving Nigeria’s government, APPL Hydrogen Limited (AHL), and China’s LONGi Solar Green Energy, is one of Africa’s largest hydrogen investments. Here’s what you need to know: ✅ Massive Production Capacity – The project, based in #AkwaIbom’s Liberty Free Trade Zone, will produce 1.2 million metric tons of green hydrogen-based methanol annually. ✅ Beyond Just Methanol – It will also produce medical oxygen and food-grade CO₂, making it more than just an energy project. ✅ A Key Player in Clean Fuels – Green methanol, made from hydrogen and captured CO₂, is gaining traction as a low-carbon fuel for shipping and aviation. ✅ Economic Impact – The project is expected to create jobs, attract foreign investment, and strengthen Nigeria’s global energy position. ✅ A Step Toward Sustainability – Nigeria aims to reduce its carbon footprint, diversify its energy sector, and lead Africa’s green hydrogen shift. With hydrogen gaining global attention, will this investment push Nigeria to the forefront of Africa’s clean energy revolution? Here is more: https://lnkd.in/dhqu8ZMW #Nigeria #GreenHydrogen #CleanEnergy #Renewables #Investment #Sustainability

How the GTA LNG Project Balances Energy Growth with Environmental Sustainability in West Africa The Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) #LNG project, located between Mauritania and Senegal, is about to ship its first LNG Cargo, marking a major milestone for West Africa’s energy sector. Here’s what makes GTA significant: ✅ Deep offshore reserves – One of Africa’s deepest LNG projects, with gas at 2,850 meters. ✅ Global LNG player – Phase 1 will produce 2.3 million tonnes annually, with future expansion up to 10 million tonnes. ✅ Economic boost – Created jobs, trained local workers, and invested in social programs to support communities. ✅ International partnership – A 50/50 revenue split between Mauritania and Senegal, ensuring shared benefits. ⚠️ Challenges ahead – Environmental concerns remain, as the project is near sensitive ecological areas. bp and partners have pledged responsible operations to mitigate risks. With LNG demand rising, could this project position West Africa as a key LNG hub? Read more: https://lnkd.in/ehmrqdUE #LNG #WestAfrica #Mauritania #Senegal #Energy #NaturalGas #Sustainability #EconomicGrowth

Software failures cost businesses millions. Yet, testing often gets sidelined, until something breaks. Tech is evolving faster than ever, but outdated testing strategies are holding companies back. The reality is with AI, ML, and automation, software testing isn’t just about preventing failures it’s about staying ahead. That’s why top experts from Old Mutual South Africa, Accenture, Nedbank, First National Bank SA, VASTech, and more are coming together. Join the #TestAutomationSummit Johannesburg on 6th March 2025 at Protea Hotel Balalaika Sandton. ✅ Learn the latest in AI-powered testing, automation, and DevTestOps. ✅ Network with C-level execs, project managers, and top QA professionals. ✅ Hear from industry leaders sharing real-world strategies. Secure your spot now: https://lnkd.in/gWZpAe-B Let’s talk about the future of testing. Tag a QA professional who needs to see this! #TestAutomation #QA #SoftwareTesting #JohannesburgEvents #AutomationSummit2025 #AIinTesting #DevTestOps #TechConference

Why More South African Companies Are Choosing EV Fleets Over Ownership South African companies are embracing Electric Vehicle-as-a-Service (EVaaS), a shift that’s making fleet management cheaper, greener, and more flexible. Here’s what’s driving the trend: ✅ Leasing over buying – Businesses can access electric fleets for a fixed monthly fee, avoiding high upfront costs. ✅ Comprehensive packages – Companies like Everlectric offer maintenance, charging, insurance, and real-time tracking. ✅ Market growth – #Everlectric grew from 40 vehicles in 2022 to nearly 200 today, showing strong demand. ✅ Government support – Tax incentives and policies aim to boost EV adoption to 20% of new car sales by 2025. ✅ Expanding infrastructure – Mercedes-Benz AG and Zero Carbon Charge are rolling out more charging stations across the country. With EV sales up 82.7% in early 2024 and fleet electrification gaining momentum, could #EVaaS reshape South Africa’s transport sector? Read more: https://lnkd.in/eQHGimju #EVaaS #ElectricVehicles #SouthAfrica #SustainableTransport #FleetManagement #GreenEnergy

Navigating the #DhowCSD Investor Portal and Mobile Apps: A Complete Guide The #DhowCSD Investor Portal & Mobile Apps are revolutionizing access to Kenya Government Securities, making it easier than ever to invest in Treasury Bills and Bonds. Here’s what you need to know: ✅ Seamless investment access – Register, bid, and manage securities directly from your device. ✅ Multiple account options – Individual, joint, and corporate investors can all participate. ✅ Secondary market trading – Buy, sell, and pledge securities with ease. ✅ Real-time notifications – Get instant updates on bids, payments, and redemptions. ✅ Enhanced security – Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) and bank approvals ensure investor protection. With #DhowCSD, investing in Kenya’s financial markets is now simpler, faster, and more secure. Will this platform drive higher participation in government securities? Read more: https://lnkd.in/eH-rbiWd #Kenya #Finance #Investing #TreasuryBonds #DhowCSD #EconomicGrowth

Breaking Barriers: Soraya M. Hakuziyaremye Becomes Rwanda’s First Female Central Bank Governor On February 25, 2025, Soraya M. Hakuziyaremye made history as the first woman appointed Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda (NBR). What this means for Rwanda’s financial future: ✅ First female governor – A landmark moment for gender representation in banking leadership. ✅ Strong leadership – #Hakuziyaremye brings global banking expertise from ING Bank UK and her tenure as Rwanda’s Deputy Governor since 2021. ✅ Digital banking push – Expected to drive Rwanda’s fintech and financial inclusion efforts. ✅ Economic stability – Takes over at a crucial time to manage inflation, forex reserves, and banking reforms. ✅ Gender representation – Rwanda continues leading in gender-inclusive governance, inspiring future female leaders. With her appointment, Rwanda’s financial sector is set for transformation. Can she position Rwanda as a regional financial hub? Read more: https://lnkd.in/eNRWmH9U #Rwanda #Finance #Banking #Leadership #WomenInFinance #EconomicGrowth

How Small Traders and Tech Innovators Will Benefit from #KRA’s Two New Departments Kenya’s tax system is evolving as the KRA(KENYA REVENUE AUTHORITY) (KRA) introduces new strategies to expand the tax base and improve compliance. But what does this mean for small businesses? Key Changes: ✅ New departments – #KRA has launched the #Micro and Small Taxpayers Department to support small businesses and the Business Strategy, Technology, and Enterprise Modernisation Department to enhance tax collection using AI and data analytics. ✅ More taxpayers targeted – KRA aims to integrate 4 million new taxpayers by 2029, focusing on MSMEs. ✅ Stronger tech enforcement – AI and automation will detect tax evasion and streamline compliance. ✅ Increased financial scrutiny – Stricter anti-money laundering rules mean MSMEs must disclose more financial details or face hefty fines. While these reforms aim to simplify tax processes, many small traders fear: ⚠️ Higher financial burdens – New regulations could make business operations more costly. ⚠️ More scrutiny – MSMEs may face tighter compliance checks and potential penalties. ⚠️ Tax avoidance risk – Overly aggressive enforcement could push businesses to stay informal. With KRA struggling to meet revenue targets, these changes could boost tax collection but only if businesses feel supported, not pressured. Will these reforms help Kenya’s tax system grow, or will small traders bear the brunt? Read more: https://lnkd.in/dQkxn5Q6 #Kenya #TaxReform #KRA #SmallBusiness #Finance

How Egypt’s New Public-Private Partnership Will Supercharge EV Adoption A new government-private sector partnership aims to expand EV charging infrastructure, making electric cars more accessible. Who’s involved? ✅ Infinity & Hassan Allam Utilities – Leading the charge on renewable energy & infrastructure. ✅ .Misr Petroleum Co & GASTEC – Installing chargers at fuel stations across Egypt. ✅ Government Support – Backed by the Ministry of Petroleum & Mineral Resources. Why does this matter? 🔋 More Charging Stations – Both fast (DC) & slow (AC) chargers to meet different needs. 🌱 Boosting EV Adoption – Egypt currently has only 5,000 EVs (0.1% of the market). 💰 Economic Growth – Job creation, foreign investment & green energy leadership. This initiative is a big step towards reducing emissions and positioning Egypt as a key player in Africa’s EV revolution. Will this spark an EV boom in Egypt? Time will tell. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dp-923r4 #Egypt #EVCharging #ElectricVehicles #CleanEnergy #Sustainability

Why Global Investors Are Flocking to Tanzania’s Startup Ecosystem Tanzania is making waves in Africa’s startup scene, attracting nearly $300M in funding since 2019. In 2024 alone, the country saw a 1,150% surge, raising $52M, driven by NALA’s $40M funding round. What’s fueling Tanzania’s rise? ✅ Fintech & Clean Energy – Top sectors attracting major investments. ✅ Strong Players – ZOLA Electric & NALA account for nearly half of total funding. ✅ Investor Confidence – Improved regulations, mobile penetration & digital economy growth. ✅ Regional Leader – Outpacing Uganda & Rwanda in startup funding. Challenges remain, bureaucracy, limited venture capital, and a need for stronger mentorship programs. But with its booming fintech sector, energy innovation, and increasing global interest, Tanzania is shaping up as Africa’s next big startup destination. Will Tanzania continue its meteoric rise? Investors are watching closely. Read more:https://lnkd.in/d6GkZ5_G #Tanzania #Startups #VentureCapital #Fintech #AfricaTech