Open-Weight AI for SMEs: Kenyan researchers are pushing African governments and businesses to adopt Chinese open-source “open-weight” AI models so teams can host locally, protect data, and fine-tune tools for local needs—already used to build a mobile health AI copilot. SME Growth Clinics (Ghana): Advans Ghana ran an SME Growth Clinic in Kumasi for 60+ entrepreneurs, focusing on business formalisation, bookkeeping basics, and building continuity plans. Capital Markets (Kenya): Kenya’s CMA licensed three new fund managers—ADAR, Entrust Advisory, and Everstrong—expanding options like unit trusts and infrastructure-linked schemes. Cash Flow Pressure (South Africa): A new World Bank-backed look at SEZs highlights jobs and revenue, but SME coverage keeps circling back to one blocker: cash flow and slow payment cycles. Export Support (South Africa): Standard Bank and DHL Express expanded an export readiness programme into Gauteng and the Western Cape, offering training on customs, logistics, and export finance. Digital Payments Push: Visa rolled out smartphone-based payment capabilities for small merchants, while Ethiopia’s EthSwitch reported ETB 2.6bn profit as interoperable digital payments keep accelerating. Energy for Growth: EACOP hit 90% completion, and Nigeria’s solar mini-grid operator WeLight plans a $650m expansion targeting Nigeria and DR Congo. SME Lending (South Africa): Bridgement secured R330m from RMB and Standard Bank to scale AI-powered SME loans based on business transaction data.