Thursday Africa News Roundup, February 20, 2025

Africa’s economic, political, and business landscapes are alive with critical developments today. From economic breakthroughs to geopolitical shifts, here’s a concise snapshot of the continent’s most pivotal stories, sourced from leading news agencies across Africa and beyond.

Economic News

Nigeria’s Inflation Eases After Statistical Overhaul

Reuters reported Nigeria’s inflation rate dropping to 24.48% in January, announced today, reflecting a rebased price index and renewed economic optimism.

South Africa’s Fuel Prices Surge Amid Global Trends

Business Insider Africa noted South Africa ranking among the top African nations with high fuel prices today, impacting consumers and businesses.

Ethiopia’s Bondholders Challenge IMF Solvency Claims

Reuters detailed Ethiopia’s bondholder committee disputing an IMF report today, arguing it exaggerates the country’s debt crisis.

Kenya’s Economic Growth Boosted by Tourism Recovery

The EastAfrican reported Kenya’s tourism sector driving a 5.8% GDP growth projection for 2024, released today, signaling a robust recovery.

Ghana’s Cocoa Exports Hit Record High

Ghana News Agency confirmed cocoa exports reaching an all-time peak today, bolstering the nation’s economic outlook.

Algeria’s Gas Production Rises to Meet European Demand

Maghreb Emergent highlighted Algeria’s gas output increasing today, strengthening its role in Europe’s energy market.

Egypt’s Suez Canal Revenue Climbs

Egypt Today reported a revenue uptick for the Suez Canal today, driven by increased global shipping traffic.

Morocco’s Phosphate Industry Expands Output

Morocco World News covered a production surge in Morocco’s phosphate sector today, reinforcing its global market dominance.

Tunisia’s Central Bank Holds Rates Steady

Tunis Afrique Presse announced Tunisia’s central bank maintaining interest rates today, to stabilize the economy.

Uganda’s Coffee Exports Soar

New Vision reported Uganda’s coffee exports reaching new heights today, boosting East Africa’s agricultural economy.

Political News

DR Congo Demands Rwandan Troop Withdrawal

Reuters covered Congo’s PM demanding Rwandan troop exit from Bukavu today, amid escalating M23 rebel tensions.

South Africa Probes Imam Hendricks’ Killing

BBC News reported police closing in on suspects in the murder of gay Imam Muhsin Hendricks today, a case shaking the nation.

Sudan Faces Hunger Crisis as UN Seeks Funds

Reuters noted the UN requesting $6 billion today, to address Sudan’s dire humanitarian crisis fueled by civil war.

Djibouti’s AU Chair Addresses Regional Conflicts

Voice of America highlighted Djibouti’s new AU Commission chair tackling Congo and Sudan crises today, at the Addis summit.

Niger’s Transition Plan Advances

Reuters reported Niger’s commission proposing a 5-year democratic transition today, signaling political stabilization efforts.

Business News

Africa Energy Bank Launches Oil Funding Initiative

Posts on X noted the Africa Energy Bank, launched today, by Afreximbank and APPO, aiming to fund oil and gas projects.

South Africa Open to Nuclear Bids from Russia, Iran

Reuters reported South Africa inviting nuclear project bids today, expanding its energy options.

Ethiopia’s Telecom Sector Attracts New Investment

Addis Standard covered a major telecom investment deal signed today, boosting digital infrastructure.

Additional News

Congo’s M23 Rebels Consolidate Bukavu Control

BBC News reported M23 rebels solidifying their hold on Bukavu today, defying ceasefire calls.

Uganda’s Military Threatens Congo’s Bunia

Reuters noted Uganda’s military chief issuing a surrender ultimatum to Bunia forces today, raising regional tension fears.