Business
South Africa and Nigeria poised to exit FATF grey list
South Africa and Nigeria are expected to be removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list at the October plenary in Paris. Both countries have implemented reforms to strengthen anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing frameworks. Exiting the list would improve investor confidence and potentially boost capital inflows Business Standard.
Africa Corporate Connect 2025 to spotlight intra-African trade
Accra will host Africa Corporate Connect 2025 on October 31, bringing together business leaders, policymakers, and investors. The event will emphasize AfCFTA-driven trade opportunities, B2B partnerships, and strategies to elevate African enterprises globally MyJoyOnline.
Technology
South Africa partners with Microsoft on AI skills
The Department of Higher Education and Training has signed a three-year MoU with Microsoft to integrate AI and digital literacy into vocational colleges. The initiative aims to address South Africa’s tech skills gap and prepare students for employment in the digital economy Ecofin Agency.
African startups gain momentum in AI and fintech
Kenya’s Optasia, an AI-powered fintech, has filed for a $375 million IPO on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, targeting SME credit markets across East Africa. Meanwhile, Tunisia’s 216 Capital has launched a venture accelerator with Plug and Play to support early-stage startups with funding and mentorship todayafrica.co.
Human Rights
Ghanaian judge elected to UN Human Rights Council advisory body
Justice Edward Amoako Asante, former president of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, has been elected to the UN Human Rights Council Advisory Committee, strengthening Africa’s representation in global human rights governance Ghana News Agency | MSN.
African Commission declares illegal mining a human rights emergency
The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights has labeled Ghana’s illegal mining crisis, or galamsey, a human rights emergency, citing environmental destruction, child labor, and political complicity. The Commission urged Ghana to adopt a coordinated national response Ghana Business News.
Geopolitics
Ethiopia begins AfCFTA exports
Ethiopia has launched its first exports under the AfCFTA, sending agricultural goods to Kenya, with South Africa and Somalia to follow. The move signals Ethiopia’s deeper integration into continental trade frameworks tralac trade law centre.
Ramaphosa deepens EU ties
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is on a working visit to Ireland and Belgium, where he is engaging in talks on trade, innovation, and investment. He will also attend the Global Gateway Forum in Brussels, seeking to attract European investment in South Africa’s infrastructure and digital economy Medafrica Times South African Government.
Security
Cybersecurity threats rise in South Africa
The South African government has warned of a surge in cybercrime, including phishing, ransomware, and online fraud. Officials urged citizens to adopt stronger digital safety practices during Cybersecurity Awareness Month IOL | MSN.
Congo–Rwanda security rollout under Trump-backed peace deal
The Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda are set to implement joint security measures this month as part of a U.S.-brokered peace accord. The plan includes border monitoring, halting militia support, and humanitarian access for displaced civilians Africanews.
Escalation of insurgent violence in DRC
The Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP) has intensified clashes in North Kivu, engaging both Congolese forces and local militias. Analysts warn of worsening instability as communities take up arms amid state security gaps ACLED.
Outlook
Africa’s trajectory remains defined by contrasting dynamics: economic integration and digital innovation are advancing, while conflict, governance challenges, and human rights crises persist. The coming months will test whether reforms, peace initiatives, and international partnerships can translate into sustainable stability and growth.
Sources: Business Standard Business Standard; MyJoyOnline MyJoyOnline; Ecofin Agency Ecofin Agency; Today Africa todayafrica.co; MSN Ghana News Agency | MSN; Ghana Business News Ghana Business News; Tralac tralac trade law centre; MedAfrica Times Medafrica Times; Gov.za South African Government; MSN IOL | MSN; Africanews Africanews; ACLED ACLED.
