Hey there! We’re back with a heavy-hitting edition. Between shifting energy prices and some tough diplomatic calls in East Africa, there is a lot to unpack. Let’s get into it.

TRENDING TOPICS
Cost of Conflict
The Middle East is seeing a sharp escalation in the Iran conflict, and the ripple effects are hitting African pumps hard.

As tensions disrupt flows through the Strait of Hormuz, global oil and gas prices have surged. For many African nations already battling high inflation, this is a double blow.

Countries like South Africa and Kenya are feeling the squeeze as the cost of importing refined fuel climbs, putting even more pressure on the everyday cost of living and transport.

It’s a stark reminder of how a conflict thousands of miles away can dictate the price of a loaf of bread in Joberg or Nairobi.

BUSINESS

Exxaro’s Manganese Mega-Deal: Manganese is an often overlooked mineral that many do not even know what it is used for. In case you need a refresher, manganse is used to strengthen steel, alloy and other metals.

So South African miner Exxaro has officially closed a R10.6 billion deal to acquire manganese assets, including a stake in the Tshipi Borwa mine. This move cements their status as a global heavyweight in battery-grade metals.

“Exxaro becomes a globally significant manganese producer with its interest in Tshipi Borwa mine, the world’s 4th largest manganese mine in South Africa’s Kalahari Manganese Field, home to approximately 80% of the world’s known manganese resources.”

Sanctions in the East

The U.S. has officially imposed sanctions on members of the Rwandan military, citing their involvement in the ongoing conflict in Eastern Congo. This adds a layer of diplomatic frost to the region and could impact military cooperation and aid flows as the international community calls for a de-escalation of the fighting.

Washington claims that the gains made by the rebels could not have been made without the backing of Rwanda, and added that the conflict has led to countless human rights abuses.

The Rwandan government has repeatedly rejected the claims from Congo, the U.N., and the United States that it is backing the M23 rebels. The rebel group is currently occupying vast territory in the Eastern Congo.

FINANCE & MARKETS

Oil Prices and Africa

Oil prices spiked over $80 a barrel, and the impact on African markets is mixed. Oil-importing nations such as South Africa are facing higher fuel and transport costs, which quickly feed into overall inflation and squeeze household budgets already stretched by weak growth and rising living costs.

Oil-exporting countries like Nigeria benefit from stronger crude revenues that can boost government income and foreign exchange inflows above budget targets, but the gains are tempered if production is below capacity and if higher international prices translate into steeper local fuel prices.

Overall, the short-term spike threatens to widen inflationary pressure and economic uncertainty across the continent, underscoring Africa’s vulnerability to global energy shocks.

TECH

Justice on the Grid: Rwanda is continuing its push for digital judicial reforms. Beyond just the tech, the focus is now on using electronic monitoring to manage prison populations. It’s a shift toward data-driven rehabilitation that could save the state millions in housing costs while keeping the workforce active. Not sure this could work in Nigeria …

👄 Quick Bites 👄

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Dish of the Day 🥘

Superkanja (Gambia) This is a powerhouse okra stew that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful. It’s a thick, green celebration of okra, leafy greens, and usually features fish or meat. While vacationing on the beautiful Gambian coast, I enjoyed this meal on many occasions.