Governance & Policy
Regulations, laws, directives and policies, that affect African startups, the financial sector, telecoms, cyber security, among others. It’s unpredictable nature either enables, stifles or is neutral on innovation
Top stories
Meta has been fined $220 million by Nigeria’s FCCPC for discriminatory data practices, with a 60-day deadline for compliance.
The world is five years away from the SDGs deadline, and African technology companies are making significant contributions to reaching the set goals.
Ghana partners with Zipline to deliver essential health supplies via drones after USAID programme disruptions.
From tracking public spending to monitoring elections, these Nigerian startups are using technology to make government more transparent, efficient, and responsive to citizens’ needs.
The House of Reps has ordered Remita to refund ₦182.77bn to the FG following an audit. This comes as the government introduces TMRAS to improve transparency in public fund management.
South Africa has suspended new SASSA card issuance over compliance concerns, affecting over 1.3 million grant recipients. A temporary extension of old cards offers relief, but the crisis highlights deeper problems in the country’s public service systems.
Starlink has secured a 10-year license to operate in Lesotho, boosting rural internet access while regulatory hurdles continue to block its entry into South Africa.
South Africa’s Competition Tribunal is set to investigate a potential merger between MultiChoice and the SABC, even as the national broadcaster contends with ongoing challenges related to a proposed acquisition by Canal+.
Ghana is the latest African nation planning to regulate digital speech, with a new bill targeting misinformation. Critics worry it could suppress free expression ahead of elections.
Kenya’s new bill to regulate stablecoins and crypto services could redefine fintech operations, with startups facing compliance requirements but gaining market legitimacy.
South Africa has launched a R15 billion smart city project in Shongweni, aiming to create over 23,000 jobs and transform the region’s development path through tech-driven urban planning.
South African shoppers could soon face higher prices on Temu and Shein as SARS moves to end tax breaks on low-value imports, aiming to support local businesses.
Despite grappling with an energy shortage, Nigeria plans to ban the importation of solar panels, a move that could potentially reverse much of the progress made in the sector.
UN agencies warn that rising satellite signal interference could severely impact Africa’s aviation and farming sectors, which depend on GPS for safety and operations.
Interpol’s Operation Red Card has led to 40 arrests in South Africa and over 300 across Africa, targeting cybercrime rings involved in SIM fraud, phishing, and online scams.
Nigeria’s data protection agency is investigating TikTok and Truecaller over alleged breaches, as compliance with privacy laws rises from 4% to over 55%.
Kenya’s data regulator has fined Whitepath $2,000 for listing a loan guarantor without consent. This comes amid a broader crackdown on digital lenders to enforce consumer protection laws.
South Africa’s finance minister, Enoch Godongwana, has announced a phased VAT increase from 15% to 16% by 2026 to address fiscal deficits. The move aims to generate R13.5 billion in 2025/26, with measures to ease the burden on low-income households.
Smartphones priced over $150 are now considered luxury in South Africa and will be subject 9% luxury goods tax in South Africa.
The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) is exploring the possibility of introducing electronic voting (e-voting) to modernize the country’s electoral system.