SME Finance (Nigeria): FinStore says Nigerian SMEs on its platform can now access loans up to N100m, with monthly support up to N1m, plus free online stores and tools for inventory and payments—aimed at helping businesses expand and scale. Foreign Traders & Regulation (Kenya): Kenya’s government moved to calm fears after Ruto’s directive, stressing it’s not a blanket ban on foreigners in small-scale trade but a push for regularisation—work permits, business registration and tax compliance—while EAC citizens’ rights under the Common Market Protocol remain a key reference point. Digital Business Ops (Kenya): ODIGO CMS launches in Africa to help companies manage dispersed field teams, tracking planning, workforce activity and reporting across locations—built for sales and merchandiser-style operations. Trade & Policy (Cameroon–EU): Cameroon and the EU plan stronger cooperation on financing, digitalisation and value-chain development to boost SME competitiveness, including support tied to recent EU funding agreements. Industrialisation (Rwanda): Rwanda inaugurated A1 Iron & Steel in Musanze to cut a $150m steel import bill, with a target capacity of about 250,000 tonnes a year and a push to move up the value chain. Private Investment Push (Ghana): IFC chief Makhtar Diop will visit Ghana to mobilise more private capital across agribusiness, education, youth jobs, access to finance, industry, renewables and the creative economy. Regional Markets & Growth (BRICS): South Africa’s Ramaphosa urged BRICS to drive investment and value addition beyond raw-mineral roles, while Modi framed India’s BRICS push around reducing trade barriers and building “economic bridges.” Fashion & Creative SMEs (Nigeria): Lagos’ UrbanStreetFashion Fiesta 3.0 continued as a platform for fashion brands and creatives, with a stronger trade fair experience and partnerships aimed at visibility and growth.