Friday, 25 September 2026

MADAGASCAR STRENGTHENS HEALTH SCREENING AS EBOLA CONCERNS SPREAD ACROSS THE INDIAN OCEAN

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BY: CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS | ONLINE EDITOR

MADAGASCAR STRENGTHENS HEALTH SCREENING AS EBOLA CONCERNS SPREAD ACROSS THE INDIAN OCEAN

Madagascar — Madagascar is increasing attention to health surveillance as African countries respond to the continuing Ebola crisis in Central Africa.

The United Kingdom's current travel guidance for Madagascar specifically includes information about Ebola entry requirements, reflecting heightened international health precautions.

For an island nation dependent on tourism and international travel, health security is a major economic issue.

Protecting the Island

Madagascar's geographic isolation provides some protection from infectious diseases.

But international airports and ports remain potential points of entry.

The government therefore needs strong disease surveillance and rapid-response systems.

Tourism

Tourism is one of Madagascar's major economic opportunities.

The island is famous for its unique wildlife, including lemurs, as well as rainforests, beaches and distinctive landscapes.

Any perception of a health emergency can affect visitor numbers.

Clear communication is therefore essential.

Agriculture

Agriculture remains central to the livelihoods of millions of Malagasy citizens.

Rice is particularly important.

The country also produces vanilla, cloves and other export crops.

Climate shocks can have major effects on agricultural production.

Vanilla

Madagascar is one of the world's leading producers of natural vanilla.

The crop provides significant export earnings.

But vanilla prices can fluctuate sharply.

Farmers therefore need stronger market access and financial resilience.

Climate Change

Madagascar is highly vulnerable to climate change.

Cyclones, droughts and flooding can destroy crops and infrastructure.

Southern Madagascar has also experienced severe drought conditions in recent years.

Climate adaptation therefore needs to be a national priority.

Energy

Limited access to reliable electricity remains a barrier to development.

Expanding renewable energy could improve household access and support businesses.

Solar power is particularly attractive in rural communities.

Mining

Madagascar possesses important mineral resources, including nickel, cobalt and graphite.

These minerals are increasingly valuable to the global technology and energy industries.

However, mining must be carefully managed to prevent environmental destruction.

Conservation

Madagascar contains ecosystems found nowhere else in the world.

Deforestation and habitat destruction therefore threaten biodiversity.

Conservation can also support tourism.

Protecting forests is both an environmental and economic investment.

Digital opportunity

Internet access is expanding.

Digital services can help farmers, businesses and young people connect with international markets.

Madagascar's future depends on balancing economic development with environmental protection.

Tourism, agriculture, mining and renewable energy all offer opportunities.

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LIBYA REMAINS CAUGHT BETWEEN OIL WEALTH AND POLITICAL FRAGMENTATION AS REGIONAL ENERGY RISKS GROW

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BY: CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS | ONLINE EDITOR

LIBYA REMAINS CAUGHT BETWEEN OIL WEALTH AND POLITICAL FRAGMENTATION AS REGIONAL ENERGY RISKS GROW

Libya — Libya remains one of North Africa's most strategically important countries, but political fragmentation continues to complicate its ability to fully exploit its enormous oil wealth.

The country's importance has increased as global energy markets face renewed disruption.

International oil prices have moved above $100 a barrel amid escalating conflict around the Gulf and Red Sea, with the International Energy Agency warning that global oil supply losses in 2026 could reach 5.7 million barrels per day.

For Libya, a major oil producer located close to Europe, the changing energy market creates both opportunity and risk.

Oil remains central

Oil dominates Libya's economy.

The country possesses some of Africa's largest proven petroleum reserves.

Production therefore remains the foundation of government finances.

Higher international prices can increase export revenues.

But political instability can prevent Libya from taking full advantage of favourable prices.

Political Division

Libya continues to struggle with competing political institutions and armed groups.

The country has experienced years of division following the 2011 overthrow and killing of Muammar Gaddafi.

Different authorities and armed factions have competed for control of territory and resources.

This fragmentation has repeatedly disrupted oil production.

The Central Bank and Public Finances

Control of financial institutions remains politically sensitive.

The central bank manages major government revenues.

Any dispute over financial institutions can quickly become a dispute over national resources.

A unified financial system is therefore essential.

Migration

Libya is also a major transit point for migrants attempting to reach Europe.

Thousands of migrants cross the country seeking routes through the Mediterranean.

The issue has created major humanitarian and security concerns.

European countries have sought greater cooperation with Libya to reduce irregular migration.

Human-rights organisations have repeatedly raised concerns about migrant detention and abuse.

Energy Opportunity

Libya could become increasingly important to Europe as European governments seek reliable energy supplies.

Its proximity to Italy and other Mediterranean countries provides an advantage.

Investment in oil and gas infrastructure could increase exports.

But investors require political stability.

Reconstruction

Libya also needs massive infrastructure investment.

Years of conflict have damaged roads, airports, electricity systems and public facilities.

Oil revenues could finance reconstruction if political institutions become more unified.

Young Libyans

Youth employment remains important.

The oil sector cannot provide enough jobs for the country's young population.

Technology, tourism, construction and manufacturing could help diversify the economy.

Libya's future remains closely linked to political reconciliation.

If competing authorities can agree on a unified national framework, oil revenues could finance reconstruction and economic diversification.

If political division continues, opportunities may remain underdeveloped.

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LIBERIA TARGETS ECONOMIC RECOVERY AS GOVERNMENT TACKLES DEBT, MINING AND DRUG TRAFFICKING

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BY: CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS | ONLINE EDITOR

LIBERIA TARGETS ECONOMIC RECOVERY AS GOVERNMENT TACKLES DEBT, MINING AND DRUG TRAFFICKING

Liberia — Liberia's government is intensifying efforts to strengthen economic management while addressing illicit mining, drug trafficking and financial-sector weaknesses.

President Joseph Boakai's administration has made economic recovery a central priority.

The government is seeking to improve public institutions while attracting investment into agriculture, mining and infrastructure.

Mining under scrutiny

Liberia possesses significant mineral resources, particularly iron ore and gold.

Mining can provide jobs and export revenue.

But illegal mining remains a major concern.

The government has announced plans to deploy a task force to illicit mining sites, according to current Liberian reporting.

The objective is to protect natural resources and ensure that the state receives revenue from mining activity.

The Credit Challenge

Liberia is also dealing with financial-sector weaknesses.

Local reporting has highlighted a roughly $100 million non-performing loan crisis affecting the financial system.

Bad loans can weaken banks and make it harder for businesses to access credit.

Small businesses are particularly vulnerable.

President Boakai's economic agenda

The administration has sought to strengthen financial governance and attract investment.

Improving the credibility of government institutions is essential.

International investors need confidence that contracts will be respected and regulations applied consistently.

Agriculture

Agriculture employs a large proportion of Liberians.

Rice remains particularly important because Liberia imports significant quantities of food.

Increasing domestic agricultural production could improve food security while reducing import dependence.

Rubber and other commodities

Liberia has traditionally exported rubber and other agricultural commodities.

Processing more products domestically could increase employment.

Instead of exporting raw materials, the country could develop factories that turn agricultural commodities into finished goods.

Infrastructure

Road infrastructure remains a major challenge.

Liberia's rainy season can make rural roads difficult to use.

Poor roads prevent farmers from reaching markets.

Infrastructure investment therefore has a direct impact on food prices and rural incomes.

Illicit Drugs

Drug trafficking has become an increasingly important public issue.

The government has pledged stronger action against illicit drugs.

Drug abuse particularly affects young people in urban areas.

Treatment and prevention need to accompany law enforcement.

Education and Youth

Liberia's young population requires expanded access to education and vocational training.

Digital skills could open new employment opportunities.

But technology development requires reliable electricity and internet connectivity.

Regional Importance

Liberia is part of the Mano River region, alongside Sierra Leone, Guinea and Côte d'Ivoire.

Cross-border trade and security cooperation are therefore essential.

Instability in one country can quickly affect its neighbours.

Liberia possesses substantial natural resources and a strategic Atlantic coastline.

The challenge is converting those advantages into sustainable development.

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LESOTHO SEEKS A NEW ECONOMIC FUTURE AS KINGDOM LOOKS BEYOND DEPENDENCE ON SOUTH AFRICA

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LESOTHO SEEKS A NEW ECONOMIC FUTURE AS KINGDOM LOOKS BEYOND DEPENDENCE ON SOUTH AFRICA

Lesotho — Lesotho is confronting a familiar but increasingly urgent economic question: how can a small, mountainous kingdom build sustainable growth while remaining deeply dependent on its much larger neighbour, South Africa?

The two economies are closely connected.

Thousands of Basotho work in South Africa.

Lesotho imports large quantities of goods from its neighbour.

South Africa also provides the country's most important access to international markets.

The Economic Relationship

The relationship with South Africa provides important advantages.

Lesotho's geographic position means South African infrastructure is essential to trade.

The country also benefits from regional institutions including the Southern African Customs Union.

However, dependence creates vulnerabilities.

Economic downturns in South Africa can quickly affect Lesotho.

Changes in South African labour markets can affect Basotho households.

Water as an Economic Asset

One of Lesotho's greatest natural assets is water.

The Lesotho Highlands Water Project transfers water to South Africa while generating electricity and revenue for Lesotho.

Water exports have therefore become an important component of the national economy.

The challenge is ensuring that local communities also benefit from the infrastructure.

HydroPower

Lesotho's mountainous terrain provides opportunities for hydropower.

Reliable electricity could support industrial development.

However, climate change and changing rainfall patterns can affect water availability.

The country therefore needs careful water management.

Textiles

The garment industry has traditionally been one of Lesotho's major formal employers.

Factories provide employment for thousands of workers.

But the sector is exposed to international competition.

Lesotho needs to improve productivity and diversify its manufacturing base.

Agriculture

Agriculture remains important in rural areas.

Small farmers face challenges from drought, soil degradation and changing weather.

Investment in irrigation and agricultural technology could improve food security.

Tourism

Lesotho has a distinctive tourism proposition.

The country's mountains, traditional culture and winter landscapes attract visitors.

Adventure tourism could become a larger source of employment.

The kingdom could develop hiking, mountain biking, skiing and cultural tourism.

Youth Employment

Young people remain central to the country's future.

Employment opportunities must expand beyond traditional sectors.

Digital services could provide opportunities for young Basotho to work for international companies without leaving the country.

This requires affordable broadband and reliable electricity.

Regional Integration

Lesotho's future is closely tied to Southern African integration.

Improved road and rail connections could reduce transport costs.

Greater regional trade could also help local producers reach larger markets.

The kingdom needs a diversified economy capable of generating employment inside Lesotho.

Water, tourism, manufacturing, agriculture and digital services can all contribute.

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KENYA APPROVES $2.3 BILLION ASAHI TAKEOVER OF EAST AFRICAN BREWERIES AS ECONOMY FACES FRESH PRESSURES

Kenya — Kenya has approved the acquisition of Diageo's 65% stake in East African Breweries Limited by Japan's Asahi Group Holdings in a transaction valued at approximately $2.3 billion.

The Competition Authority of Kenya approved the transaction subject to conditions designed to protect competition and local businesses.

The deal represents one of the biggest corporate transactions in Kenya's recent history and marks an important shift in ownership of one of East Africa's best-known beverage businesses.

A Major Corporate Transition

Diageo's decision to sell its controlling interest is part of the company's broader restructuring of its African operations.

Asahi, one of Japan's major beverage companies, will take control of the Kenyan business.

The transaction demonstrates that international investors continue to see Kenya as a major African consumer market.

Competition Conditions

Kenya's competition regulator did not approve the transaction without conditions.

The new ownership must reserve at least 20% of refrigeration space in retail outlets for products that are not produced by EABL or Asahi.

The regulator also required adequate funds to be set aside for outstanding liabilities and measures to protect continuity of supply and small-business activity.

The conditions demonstrate the importance of competition policy in large corporate transactions.

Small Businesses

The brewing industry supports a much wider ecosystem than the manufacturers themselves.

Retailers, distributors, transport companies, restaurants and entertainment businesses all depend on beverage sales.

Any major change in ownership can therefore affect thousands of smaller businesses.

The regulator's conditions are intended partly to ensure that the transaction does not eliminate opportunities for competitors.

Kenya's Economic Pressure

The corporate deal comes as Kenya faces significant economic challenges.

The country's public debt has continued to put pressure on government finances.

Kenya's Controller of Budget recently put public debt at approximately 13.01 trillion Kenyan shillings, according to local reporting.

The government is therefore looking for economic growth while trying to protect fiscal stability.

Healthcare Crisis

Kenya has also experienced serious pressure on its healthcare system.

A 43-day nurses' strike ended this week after the government and nurses' union reached a return-to-work agreement.

The agreement gives the parties 45 days to conclude negotiations on implementation of a collective bargaining agreement originally reached in 2017.

The strike had increased pressure on doctors and hospitals.

The dispute demonstrated how difficult it can be for governments to finance public-sector wage commitments while also maintaining essential services.

Emergency Financing

Kenya is also expected to receive approximately $400 million in emergency World Bank financing.

The funding is intended to help address several pressures, including health risks associated with the Ebola outbreak in neighbouring countries, El Niño-related risks and higher energy costs.

Foreign Traders

Another major issue is the government's crackdown on undocumented foreign small-scale traders.

President William Ruto has argued that small businesses such as hawking and retail should provide opportunities for Kenyan citizens, while foreign investment should be concentrated in larger capital-intensive activities.

The government subsequently offered a temporary amnesty to undocumented East African nationals.

The issue has generated concern among Burundian traders and other foreign nationals.

Infrastructure

Kenya is also pursuing major infrastructure projects.

The country is seeking financing from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank for projects including the proposed 243-kilometre Mau Summit–Malaba expressway.

Improved transport infrastructure could reduce logistics costs and strengthen Kenya's position as an East African trade hub.

Kenya enters the next phase of its development with enormous advantages: a sophisticated financial sector, a large consumer market, strong technology capabilities and regional influence.

But the government must manage debt, healthcare, employment, energy costs and social tensions simultaneously.

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Friday, 25 September 2026