Ethiopian Airlines Group is poised to strengthen Ethiopia’s e-commerce sector through a strategic partnership with AliExpress. The collaboration will utilize Ethiopian Airlines’ logistic hub to streamline the distribution of AliExpress products, potentially offering a significant boost to businesses seeking to penetrate international markets.
Ethio Telecom, in collaboration with Visa Inc., has launched Ethiopia’s first wallet-based virtual Visa Card and introduced services aimed at improving remittances via Visa Direct and the Telebirr Remit App. This partnership marks a significant step in expanding Ethiopia’s digital banking services, providing more accessible and convenient financial tools to the population.
MTN Uganda and the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) have initiated discussions on a potential partnership aimed at increasing investment in Uganda’s capital markets. This collaboration seeks to broaden public understanding of the capital markets, often perceived as accessible only to a privileged few, and make them more inclusive for all Ugandans.
BasiGo has secured a significant investment of KSh1.3 billion from the United States International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to ramp up local assembly of its electric buses. This loan facility is expected to play a crucial role in fulfilling orders from Nairobi matatu operators, who have already placed over 500 reservations for these vehicles. The investment will also support BasiGo’s plan to create at least 300 green manufacturing jobs, further boosting the local economy.
Starlink is making significant strides in Kenya by introducing a rental option for its satellite internet kits, addressing a major barrier to adoption. This new initiative allows customers to rent the hardware on a monthly basis, with a one-time activation fee of KSh 2,700 and a monthly hardware rental fee of KSh 1,950. This move aims to make Starlink’s services more accessible by reducing the upfront cost, which previously deterred many potential users.
Senegal has achieved a historic milestone with the successful launch of its first satellite, GAINDESAT-1A, from California on Friday evening. This significant event positions Senegal as one of only 12 African nations with its own surveillance and telecommunications satellites in space. The launch marks a pivotal advancement in the country’s space capabilities and technological development.
Prudential plc has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Google Cloud to transform the insurance industry through artificial intelligence. This strategic alliance aims to develop AI-powered products and applications that will revolutionize interactions among customers, agents, and employees. The collaboration marks a significant milestone as it introduces the first AI Lab dedicated to insurance in Asia and Africa.
Bolt has announced a strategic partnership with microfinance company Hakki Africa to offer vehicle financing for its drivers. This collaboration aims to deploy 1,500 vehicles over the next 18 months to drivers on Bolt’s platform who meet specific criteria. The initiative will allow driver partners to benefit from lower loan down payments and performance-based incentives, making vehicle ownership more attainable.
