Building Tomorrow’s Africa: Nations Invest in Industry, Health, and Good Governance

Welcome back to The Vault! Here’s our bulletin on recent policy developments.

Angola

• Angola Launches Nationwide Cervical Cancer Vaccination Campaign
• ZEE Accelerates Industrial Growth with Over 200 New Projects
• EU Injects €50 Million into Angola’s Lobito Corridor for Agricultural Advancement
• U.S. Launches Visa Bonds System Impacting Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe

Ethiopia

• World Bank Warns of Ethiopia’s Poverty Surge to 43% in 2025
• Addis Ababa Gears Up for National Vehicle Emission Standards to Combat Urban Pollution
• Ethiopia Launches Historic AfCFTA Exports, Ushering in Continental Market Access

Kenya

• Rachel Ruto Ignites National Kitchen Garden Revolution in Samburu to Combat Hunger
• Kenya’s Parliament Pioneers Crypto Regulation with VASP Bill Passage
• Ruku Ignites Nationwide Purge of Corrupt HR Officers in Payroll Scandal

Malawi

• Mutharika Bolsters DPP’s Parliamentary Grip with Key Leadership Appointments

South Africa

• South Africa Pioneers Lenacapavir Rollout for Revolutionary HIV Prevention

Nigeria

• Senate Forms Committee to Counter Alleged Christian Genocide Claims
• Tinubu Nominates Amupitan for INEC Chair, Omidiran for FCC Leadership in Key Reforms
• Nigeria Triples Capital Gains Tax on Foreign Equity Investors to 30%

Ghana

• Bawumia Launches Nationwide Tour to Secure NPP Flagbearer Nomination

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ANGOLA

Angola Launches Nationwide Cervical Cancer Vaccination Campaign

Angola will launch its nationwide cervical cancer vaccination program on October 27th, marking a significant step in public health efforts to reduce cancer incidence among women. The initiative targets girls aged 9 to 14, aiming to provide early protection against HPV, the leading cause of cervical cancer. This program aligns with Angola’s broader national strategy to improve women’s health outcomes and reduce mortality rates linked to preventable diseases. The rollout follows successful pilot campaigns and international health partnerships supporting vaccine access and awareness. Starting this month, the vaccination drive is expected to enhance long-term cancer prevention and relieve future healthcare burdens. The initiative’s impact is projected to improve community health resilience and boost Angola’s progress toward global health targets by 2030.

ZEE Accelerates Industrial Growth with Over 200 New Projects

Angola’s ZEE (Sociedade de Desenvolvimento da Zona Econômica Especial) has announced on 11th October 2025,the implementation of over 200 industrial projects aimed at diversifying the country’s economic base and boosting industrial growth, with a focus on sectors like food processing, chemicals, healthcare, and manufacturing. This ambitious plan includes the inauguration of a serum production plant scheduled for November to meet domestic demand, creating up to 15,000 jobs by year’s end. The ZEE aims to attract substantial foreign investment, develop infrastructure, and facilitate technological transfer, leveraging Angola’s strategic position within regional trade frameworks such as AfCFTA and AGOA. Through these projects, Angola hopes to reduce its reliance on oil, promote sustainable industrialization, and significantly impact employment and local production growth.

EU Injects €50 Million into Angola’s Lobito Corridor for Agricultural Advancement

The European Union has allocated 50 million euros to support agricultural development along the Lobito Corridor in Angola, aiming to foster resilience and diversify the local economy. This funding, approved on 9th October 2025, targets infrastructure improvements, irrigation, rural development, and the enhancement of logistics and education systems, with a focus on integrating family farming into market chains and promoting exports. The initiative is part of Angola’s broader strategy to improve food security, boost agricultural productivity, and create jobs in the Benguela Province, leveraging regional connectivity and technological advancements. By integrating local communities and stakeholders, the project aims to address poverty and inequality while fostering sustainable development.

U.S. Launches Visa Bonds System Impacting Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe

The U.S. Government is launching a Visa Bonds System starting October 23, 2025, which includes São Tomé and Príncipe among the participating countries, as announced by the U.S. Embassy in Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe. This pilot program requires B-1/B-2 visitor visa applicants from targeted countries to post bonds of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, aimed at reducing visa overstays and enhancing immigration compliance. The bond amount is determined during the visa interview, and applicants must agree via an official Department of Treasury platform, ensuring secure payment procedures. This measure is part of a broader strategy to address visa overstays from nations with historically high rates, impacting travel access while encouraging stricter adherence to visa terms. The system will run for about one year, from August 2025 to August 2026, with potential for extension based on results. It marks a significant shift in U.S. visa policy, affecting travel and business relations, and underscores ongoing efforts to modernize immigration controls.

ETHIOPIA

World Bank Warns of Ethiopia’s Poverty Surge to 43% in 2025

The World Bank’s latest assessment on October 13, 2025, forecasts Ethiopia’s poverty rate to rise sharply to 43% in 2025, reversing over two decades of progress made since 2016 when it stood at 33%. This increase is attributed to a combination of internal conflicts, severe droughts, the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, soaring inflation, and slowing GDP growth. The report highlights how these challenges have disproportionately impacted urban households and deepened rural vulnerabilities, stalling efforts to reduce poverty drastically. Released in October 2025, this projection signals a critical warning about Ethiopia’s socio-economic stability and the urgency of addressing these compounding crises. The World Bank also declared Ethiopia to be in a state of debt distress, complicating recovery and development efforts further.

Addis Ababa Gears Up for National Vehicle Emission Standards to Combat Urban Pollution

Addis Ababa is set to implement a new National Vehicle Emission Standard (ES6725/2022) starting on 10 October 2025, aimed at significantly reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality in the city. The initiative, led by the Addis Ababa Transport Bureau, involves collaboration with environmental, health institutions, and vehicle associations to enforce the standard and related Emission Controls Directive No. 1051/2017. Vehicles failing to meet the emission criteria will be required to undergo modifications using emission-mitigating devices or face restrictions from operating on city roads. This move is complemented by infrastructure developments, promotion of electric vehicles, and non-motorized transport options. The regulation aligns with Ethiopia’s national goal to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 68.8% by 2030, addressing the significant pollution caused by the aging vehicle fleet.

Ethiopia Launches Historic AfCFTA Exports, Ushering in Continental Market Access

Ethiopia officially began shipping goods under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement on October 9, 2025, marking a major step in the country’s regional trade integration. The first shipments, including meat, fruits, coffee, pulses, and oilseeds, were sent to Kenya, Somalia, and South Africa using both air and land transport. This milestone underscores Ethiopia’s strategic intent to expand its export base, diversify trade partners, and strengthen its role in the continental market of 1.4 billion consumers. The AfCFTA aims to create a single continental market by reducing tariffs and simplifying customs procedures, facilitating economic integration across Africa. Ethiopia’s participation is expected to boost value-added exports, stimulate job creation, and enhance competitiveness in the Horn of Africa. However, challenges such as freight costs and infrastructure bottlenecks remain, pushing the government to accelerate reforms in logistics and industrial park development.

KENYA

Rachel Ruto Ignites National Kitchen Garden Revolution in Samburu to Combat Hunger

First Lady Rachel Ruto launched the National Mama Kitchen Garden Programme in Samburu County on October 14, 2025,urging schools and households to adopt kitchen gardens as a sustainable solution to hunger and malnutrition. The program targets communities affected by drought and climate change, promoting indigenous crops that require minimal water and space, making them ideal for harsh conditions. Under the theme “Building Resilient Households, Schools, and Communities,” this initiative aligns with President William Ruto’s vision for a food-secure Kenya. It aims to ensure no child goes to school hungry while empowering women and youth economically through sustainable farming. The program also revives 4K Clubs to teach children sustainable agricultural practices. With 35% of Kenyan children malnourished, this grassroots initiative is expected to have a ripple effect on food security across the country.

Kenya’s Parliament Pioneers Crypto Regulation with VASP Bill Passage

Kenya’s parliament passed the Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill on October 9 2025, creating the country’s first comprehensive legal framework to regulate cryptocurrencies and digital assets. The bill, now awaiting President William Ruto’s assent, mandates that the Central Bank of Kenya license stablecoins and virtual asset providers, while the Capital Markets Authority will oversee cryptocurrency exchanges and trading platforms. This legislation addresses longstanding gaps in regulation, aiming to boost investor confidence, reduce fraud, and attract fresh fintech investments. With an estimated 13% of Kenyans engaged in crypto activities, the law seeks to protect consumers through stringent anti-money laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements. Kenya positions itself as a hub for crypto innovation in Africa, aligning with global regulatory standards while fostering financial inclusion.

Ruku Ignites Nationwide Purge of Corrupt HR Officers in Payroll Scandal

Kenya’s Ministry of Public Service, led by Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, launched a nationwide crackdown on October 12, 2025,targeting corrupt human resource officers involved in payroll manipulation, illegal promotions, and tax fraud. This initiative follows an internal audit revealing widespread malpractice, including altering birth dates to extend service beyond retirement and granting illegal tax exemptions, resulting in significant government revenue losses. Ruku warned that those found guilty would face immediate dismissal and prosecution, signaling a zero-tolerance approach to corruption within the civil service. The crackdown aims to restore meritocracy, transparency, and fairness, addressing inflated wage bills and demoralization among diligent public servants. The Ministry is collaborating closely with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission and other agencies to investigate cases at national and county levels. This effort aligns with President William Ruto’s broader anti-corruption agenda, emphasizing the protection of taxpayers’ money and the restoration of dignity in public service.

MALAWI

Mutharika Bolsters DPP’s Parliamentary Grip with Key Leadership Appointments

President Arthur Peter Mutharika has set up his parliamentary command ahead of the critical Speaker election on October 29, 2025,signaling strong legislative control for his Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Hon. Sameer Suleman, MP, was appointed as the party’s candidate for Speaker, while Hon. Patricia Wiskes was designated Chief Whip, and Martha Ngwira as Deputy Whip, reflecting a strategic move to consolidate power in Parliament. This leadership team is tasked with ensuring party discipline and unity to drive the DPP’s legislative agenda effectively. The appointments aim to prevent past internal divisions that stalled government business and position Mutharika’s administration to pass key reforms and budgetary bills smoothly. The DPP has also called on alliance partners to support these choices to maintain a cohesive majority. The Speaker election will test Mutharika’s ability to command a unified legislature essential for his reform agenda.

SOUTH AFRICA

South Africa Pioneers Lenacapavir Rollout for Revolutionary HIV Prevention

South Africa plans to roll out Lenacapavir, a groundbreaking long-acting injectable drug for HIV prevention, as early as March 2026, following a national roundtable on access and sustainability held on October 15, 2025.This twice-yearly injection offers up to six months of protection, addressing gaps in existing HIV prevention methods, particularly benefiting high-risk groups such as adolescent girls, pregnant women, and sex workers. Funded by a $29 million Global Fund grant, the rollout will initially target 23 high-incidence districts across six provinces, covering approximately 360 clinics. Clinical trials demonstrated Lenacapavir’s high efficacy, with 100% protection among women and 96% among men who have sex with men and transgender women. The initiative aims to reduce new HIV infections to below 0.1% by 2032, representing a major step toward ending AIDS as a public health threat. Alongside government commitments, community engagement and sustainable financing are key pillars for success.

NIGERIA

Senate Forms Committee to Counter Alleged Christian Genocide Claims

The Nigerian Senate on October 14, 2025, established a 12-member ad-hoc committee to address growing international concerns over alleged state-backed persecution and possible genocide against Christians in parts of the country. This move followed claims by the United States Government and intensified diplomatic scrutiny regarding religious freedom violations. The committee, chaired by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, is tasked with drafting a comprehensive position paper grounded in verifiable facts and statistics to reflect Nigeria’s security realities accurately. It will guide the legislature’s engagement with the Executive and international partners, including preparing for direct discussions with the U.S. Congress. The committee’s formation is a strategic effort to counter “misleading narratives” that could damage Nigeria’s international standing and interfaith harmony.

Tinubu Nominates Amupitan for INEC Chair, Omidiran for FCC Leadership in Key Reforms

President Bola Tinubu has formally requested the Nigerian Senate to confirm Professor Joash Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) from Kogi State, as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on October 14, 2025.Amupitan’s nomination follows the completion of Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s decade-long tenure and comes after unanimous approval by the National Council of State. Alongside this, Tinubu also seeks Senate confirmation for Mrs. Ayo Omidiran as Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC). Amupitan, a distinguished legal scholar and former Dean of Law at the University of Jos, is expected to lead electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections, aiming to restore credibility and public trust in Nigeria’s electoral processes. The Senate has referred the nomination to the Committee of the Whole for further consideration.

Nigeria Triples Capital Gains Tax on Foreign Equity Investors to 30%

Starting January 2026, Nigeria will triple the capital gains tax (CGT) on foreign equity investors from the current 10% to 30%, as part of the 2025 Tax Reform Act aimed at boosting government revenue and curbing speculative trading. This hike applies unless gains are reinvested in domestic listed or unlisted equities, incentivizing longer-term investments within Nigeria. The reform also introduces a progressive tax system where most individual investors are exempt under set thresholds, protecting small investors while ensuring higher earners pay a fairer share. Although intended to stabilize finances and align Nigeria with international tax norms, the increase has raised concerns about potentially deterring foreign investment and slowing Nigeria’s stock market, which has surged by nearly 40% this year. Many foreign investors can claim tax credits in their home countries, mitigating some tax burdens.

GHANA

Bawumia Launches Nationwide Tour to Secure NPP Flagbearer Nomination

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Vice President of Ghana, has commencedhis nationwide campaign ahead of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primaries scheduled for January 31, 2026. The campaign builds on his strong showing in the 2024 elections, aiming to consolidate support among party delegates and regional leaders. The NPP completed the balloting for the positioning of candidates on October 10, 2025, where Bawumia secured the third slot on the ballot paper behind Kennedy Agyapong and Bryan Acheampong. The primaries involve a rigorous vetting process, and internal party consultations focused on democratic selection and unity. This campaign period is critical for shaping the party’s platform and strengthening Bawumia’s bid for the flagbearer position.

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