Tag: U.S.

  • SEC crypto task force holds first public roundtable as regulatory overhaul looms

    SEC crypto task force holds first public roundtable as regulatory overhaul looms

    On Friday, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), a key financial watchdog, took a significant step toward reshaping cryptocurrency regulation with its first public roundtable, organised by the newly constituted Crypto Task Force.

    The meeting, themed “Spring Sprint Toward Crypto Clarity,” brought together industry leaders, legal experts, and former SEC officials to debate existing securities laws and how they apply to digital assets.

    Read also: Trump pledges to make U.S. the world’s crypto capital

    A new beginning for crypto regulation

    Republican SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce, who chairs the task force, emphasised the importance of reviewing their approach.

    “Spring signifies new beginnings, and we have a new beginning here—a restart of the commission’s approach to crypto regulation,” Ms Peirce said on Friday.

    Meanwhile, the crypto task force aims to develop clear rules and guidance for the industry, which has long clashed with regulators over whether digital assets should be classified as securities or commodities.

    The roundtable addressed key issues, including whether crypto tokens require a separate regulatory framework distinct from traditional securities.

    Miles Jennings, general counsel for Andreessen Horowitz’s crypto arm, urged the SEC to adopt a “technology-neutral” approach, noting the differences between decentralised systems like Ethereum and traditional equity ownership in companies like Apple.

    As it is clear, creating rules for thousands of diverse digital assets presents significant challenges. Jennings pointed out the stark contrast between Bitcoin, a decentralised asset, and FTX’s FTT token, which collapsed alongside the failed exchange. “These two assets are not the same at all,” he said.

    Moving forward with the meeting, the central debates later revolved around the commodity-security divide, a longstanding point of contention in the crypto industry.

    Collins Belton, managing partner at Brookwood P.C., noted that even if all digital assets were considered securities, numerous downstream questions would remain.

    Lee Reiners of Duke University, a crypto skeptic, agreed that disclosure guidelines for crypto assets should differ from those for traditional stocks. “The information an investor in a crypto asset would want is fundamentally different than what an investor in Apple stock would want,” Reiners said.

    Read also: Dubai to tokenise real estate, projecting $16 billion market by 2033

    A lengthy road ahead for the Crypto Task Force

    With this ongoing debate, the task force’s work is just beginning, and the road to regulatory clarity will likely be long. Once a proposal is floated, the public can comment, and Congress may also weigh in.

    As the SEC aligns with President Trump’s pro-crypto stance, including plans for a strategic cryptocurrency reserve, the industry is hopeful for lighter, more tailored regulations that could unlock institutional investment and drive broader adoption.

    In Peirce’s words, this roundtable represents a “new beginning” for crypto regulation—one that could shape the future of digital assets in the U.S.

  • U.S.-based Zipline scales up drone operations to strengthen healthcare delivery in Nigeria

    U.S.-based Zipline scales up drone operations to strengthen healthcare delivery in Nigeria

    Zipline, a drone logistics company headquartered in the United States and backed by Sequoia Capital and Goldman Sachs, announced on Friday that it will expand its operations in Nigeria by establishing drone logistics in five additional states by the end of 2025.

    After signing a memorandum of understanding with the Nigerian government in September 2024, Zipline used its drone infrastructure to deliver essential medical supplies to remote and underserved areas.

    Read also: Morocco introduces digital child health records

    Zipline debuted in Kaduna, Nigeria, in 2022 and has expanded to Bayelsa and Cross River states. The firm has improved healthcare access by delivering over one million vaccination doses and 71,000 essential medicine units in Bayelsa. Also that year, Zipline and Jumia delivered daily-use items across Nigeria.

    Zipline’s drones aim to streamline Nigeria’s drug delivery

    Zipline’s expansion aims to address Nigeria’s healthcare supply chain challenges, including poor drug storage, bad roads, and widespread counterfeit drugs. 

    The company operates drone deployment stations, known as “nests,” which can handle up to 300 drone flights daily, delivering vaccines, anti-malaria drugs, nutritional medicine, and just-in-time medical supplies. 

    Akin Oyediran, Zipline Nigeria’s country manager and partnership lead, noted, “We’re going to start delivering blood and other medical equipment to riverine areas where people lack access to quality healthcare”.

    Zipline’s drones can deliver medical supplies in as little as 30 minutes to areas where traditional healthcare personnel might take up to 14 hours to reach. 

    This efficiency is particularly important in regions like the South-South, where riverine communities rely on motorcycles, bicycles, boats, or even foot travel for medical supplies.

    In Bayelsa, Zipline’s drone logistics distribution centre serves health facilities and community delivery sites within a 38,000-square-kilometer area, reaching 73 out of the state’s 83 wards.

    Read also: Rwanda turns to digital clinics to tackle healthcare worker shortage

    Zipline expanding beyond healthcare

    In addition to its health initiatives, Zipline is exploring ways to extend its reach into Nigeria’s agriculture sector. The company’s success in Rwanda, where drones have been used to deliver livestock vaccines and artificial insemination products, provides a model that Zipline hopes to replicate in Nigeria. 

    Akin Oyediran explained that Zipline is considering expanding agricultural supply deliveries to support farmers and a potential entry into e-commerce logistics in Nigeria. This diversification aligns with Zipline’s mission to make drone delivery possible for everyone.

    Zipline’s operations in Nigeria are part of its broader presence in Africa, where it has been instrumental in delivering medical supplies to countries like Rwanda and Ghana. 

    The company’s ability to transport supplies within 15 to 45 minutes, bypassing bad roads and harsh weather conditions, ensures timely access to critical supplies. With its On-Demand Services, healthcare facilities can order supplies on demand, reducing stockouts and wastage.

  • U.S. excludes UK, African countries, from 2025 visa-free entry list (See full list)

    U.S. excludes UK, African countries, from 2025 visa-free entry list (See full list)

    On Monday, the United States announced the list of nations eligible for its 2025 Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

    The United Kingdom was excluded from the 2025 list but remains eligible under certain conditions. Additionally, no African nations, including Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa, were included.

    The addition of Romania represents a major upgrade, even though the majority of the VWP list was not altered.

    Along with strengthening security inspections, the U.S has prioritised nations with high border security standards and diplomatic ties.

    Read also: U.S. Embassy removes drop box option for Nigerian visa renewal applicants

    Visa Waiver Program – only for 90 days 

    The majority of citizens or nationals of listed countries are permitted to enter the United States for up to 90 days for business or tourism without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program, according to the US Bureau of Consular Affairs website.

    The agency stated, “Travellers must have a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval prior to travel and meet all requirements explained below. If you prefer to have a visa in your passport, you may still apply for a visitor visa.”

    The 2025 Visa Waiver Program brings new travel regulations, changes to the list of participating nations, and policy amendments on visa eligibility.

    This upgrade makes it easier for millions of people throughout the world to enter the United States without a visa, increasing accessibility for transit, commerce, and travel.

    Under the 2025 Visa Waiver Program, individuals of 40 nations can gain entrance to the US without a visa.

    Read also: TikTok bypasses U.S. App Store restrictions, offers direct Android downloads

    Full list of countries under the USA’s Visa Waiver Program 

    1. Andorra

    2. Australia

    3. Austria

    4. Belgium

    5. Chile

    6. Czech Republic

    7. Croatia

    8. Denmark

    9. Estonia

    10. Finland

    11. France

    12. Germany

    13. Greece

    14. Hungary

    15. Iceland

    16. Ireland

    17. Italy

    18. Israel

    19. Norway

    20. Poland

    21. Portugal

    22. San Marino

    23. Singapore

    24. Slovakia

    25. Japan

    26. Slovenia

    27. Latvia

    28. South Korea

    29. Liechtenstein

    30. Spain

    31. Lithuania

    32. Sweden

    33. Luxembourg

    34. Switzerland

    35. Malta

    36. Netherlands

    37. New Zealand

    38. Qatar

    39. Romania

    40. Monaco

  • Meta to invest $10 billion in Project Waterworth, connecting South Africa, U.S., others via undersea cable

    Meta to invest $10 billion in Project Waterworth, connecting South Africa, U.S., others via undersea cable

    In an audacious move to redefine global internet connectivity, Meta, the parent company of social media giants like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has announced plans to construct the world’s longest undersea broadband cable.

    This groundbreaking project, Project Waterworth, aims to span over 50,000 kilometres and connect central regions, including the United States, India, Brazil, and, most crucially, South Africa.

    Read also: Meta’s Threads exceeds 320 million users, unveils media tab and photo tagging features

    The scope of Meta’s Broadband cable vision

    Project Waterworth is not just about laying cable; it’s about crafting a digital lifeline around the planet. The broadband cable will use a 24 fiber-pair system, offering unprecedented capacity to handle the ever-increasing demand for high-speed internet. By laying this cable, Meta intends to bypass traditional routes often subject to geopolitical tensions or natural hazards, ensuring a more reliable and secure internet infrastructure. This includes avoiding areas like the Red and South China Sea, where undersea cables have faced sabotage or accidental damage. 

    Why South Africa is key to Meta’s Broadband strategy

    South Africa’s inclusion in this network is strategic. As one of Africa’s leading economies with a burgeoning tech sector, South Africa represents a significant node in the global digital ecosystem. The cable’s route through South Africa aims to enhance local internet speeds and reliability and serve as a gateway for connectivity to the rest of Africa. This move could significantly boost digital inclusion across the continent, providing better access to global markets, education, and information.

    The technical marvel of Meta’s undersea Broadband cable

    Meta employs cutting-edge technology to build such an extensive cable system. The broadband cable will be laid at depths reaching 000 meters, minimising the risk of damage from human activities like fishing or shipping. Enhanced burial techniques in high-risk areas, particularly near coasts, are part of the strategy to protect the cable from ship anchors and other potential threats. This project showcases Meta’s commitment to expanding its digital footprint and ensuring the robustness of its infrastructure.

    Implications for global connectivity via South Africa

    The implications of Project Waterworth extend far beyond the immediate regions it connects. It’s poised to facilitate greater economic cooperation, enhance digital inclusion, and open new avenues for technological development. For countries like South Africa, this could mean a leap in digital capabilities, potentially attracting more tech investments and fostering innovation. On a broader scale, it supports Meta’s vision for an interconnected world where AI and other data-intensive technologies can flourish without the bottleneck of inadequate infrastructure.

    Concerns and challenges for Meta’s Broadband cable in South Africa

    The project isn’t without its challenges. The sheer scale and cost, rumoured to exceed $10 billion, highlight the financial risks. Security concerns also exist; undersea cables are seen as critical infrastructure that could be targeted in geopolitical conflicts. Meta has addressed this by planning routes that steer clear of known high-risk areas, but vigilance will be required to safeguard this investment.

    Moreover, there is ongoing debate about privatising such critical infrastructure. Some argue that essential digital highways should be publicly managed to ensure equitable access rather than controlled by a single corporation like Meta. This discussion echoes in the digital community, with some advocating international cooperation in laying and maintaining such broadband cables.

    Read also: Meta entices TikTok creators with cash bonuses, content deals

    The future of Meta’s Broadband cable in South Africa

    As Project Waterworth progresses, its impact on internet speed, reliability, and global digital equity will be closely watched. For South Africa and the connected regions, this broadband cable could be a game-changer in terms of connectivity and catalysing economic and technological growth. Meta’s initiative might also inspire other tech giants to invest in similar infrastructure projects, potentially leading to a more interconnected and resilient global internet.

    With the world becoming increasingly digital, Meta’s project is a testament to the lengths companies will go to ensure they remain at the forefront of this transformation. 

    However, Project Waterworth’s success will be measured by how well it serves the communities it connects, enhancing lives and bridging digital divides across continents.

  • TikTok bypasses U.S. App Store restrictions, offers direct Android downloads

    TikTok bypasses U.S. App Store restrictions, offers direct Android downloads

    On February 8, 2025, TikTok announced that U.S. Android users can download the app directly from its website using Android Package Kits.

    This move allows users to bypass restrictions imposed after the app’s removal from the App Store and Google Play Store following a U.S. ban on January 19.

    The ban was enacted due to concerns about potential misuse of American users’ data under ByteDance’s ownership.

    Read also: Trump open to Elon Musk buying TikTok if he shows interest

    According to TikTok, the app remains “safe and secure,” with ongoing reviews of its source code by Oracle and Independent Security Inspectors chosen by ByteDance.

    “We’re enhancing ways for our community to continue using TikTok by making Android Package Kits available at TikTok.com/download so that our U.S. Android users can download our app and create, discover, and connect on TikTok,” the company stated.

    Users can download either the full version of TikTok or TikTok Lite, which is designed for users with slower internet speeds.

    The primary benefit of downloading from the official website is safety assurance without additional security concerns.

    How to download TikTok via APK

    To download TikTok’s APK (Android Package Kit) from TikTok’s official website, users can follow the outlined steps:

    Open a web browser and go to TikTok’s official website.

    Find the “Download TikTok” button or the APK download section.

    Tap the “Download APK button” to begin downloading the installation file. Confirm the download if prompted.

    Before installing, go to Settings > Security on your Android device. Enable Install Unknown Apps for your browser.

    Open the Downloads folder and tap on the TikTok APK file.

    Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

    Open the TikTok app, sign in to your account, and begin using it.

    Read also: TikTok operational in U.S. after brief ban

    Political and security concerns

    The U.S. government has expressed concerns over potential data misuse under ByteDance’s ownership. TikTok has denied allegations regarding its ties with China.

    The situation took another turn when President Donald Trump, who assumed office the day after the ban took effect, signed an executive order delaying enforcement for 75 days.

    Trump also initiated discussions about a potential sale of TikTok to a U.S. company and proposed creating a sovereign wealth fund to buy the app.

    ByteDance repeatedly said that it had no plans to sell the social media app, but one of the company’s biggest investors recently said that a deal is in “everybody’s interest.”

    Several companies and individuals, including Perplexity AI and MrBeast, have already expressed their intention to purchase TikTok in the U.S.

    Free speech advocates have criticised the ban, arguing that it unfairly targets TikTok while other platforms with foreign ownership operate freely. TikTok has stated that U.S. user data is stored on Oracle-operated cloud servers and that content moderation for American users is handled domestically. The app has around 170 million users in the U.S.

  • U.S. Embassy removes drop box option for Nigerian visa renewal applicants

    U.S. Embassy removes drop box option for Nigerian visa renewal applicants

    The United States visa renewal process has undergone a major change with the removal of the drop box visa processing option for Nigerian applicants

    The move is coming on the heels of Donald Trump‘s immigration policy which has had significant impact globally.

    The feature that permitted holders of expired visas to renew their visas without a face-to-face interview has been scrapped.

    The drop box feature on the appointment booking portal is no longer available, according to applicants trying to schedule visa renewals, even though the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria has not yet released an official announcement on the change.

    Read also: Mauritania adopts e-visa system to modernise international travel

    U.S. visa applications tedious process

    This development coincides with a backlog of visa applications, as many applicants had to wait months to get appointments for drop boxes prior to this removal.

    Some people even complained that they had to wait almost a year to schedule a face-to-face session, which made the already onerous process even more frustrating.

    This adjustment was made at a time when many applicants were already having trouble getting an in-person visa appointment due to lengthy wait times, some of which may last up to a year.

    Many applicants sought alternatives in Abuja as a result of the lack of Dropbox appointment slots in Lagos as of January.

    Back to in-person interviews 

    All applicants must now undergo in-person interviews as the drop box feature has been completely removed, reverting to the procedure used prior to 2020.

    Originally designed to streamline the visa renewal procedure, the drop box (Interview Waiver) program in Nigeria permits certain applicants to submit their documents without physically attending an interview at the U.S. Embassy.

    For applicants to be eligible, they needed to fulfil certain requirements, such as:

    Being in possession of a previous U.S. visa that has expired in the last 24 months.

    The previous visa must have been a multiple-entry, full-validity visa issued in Nigeria.

    Requesting a visa in the same category as the one that was previously granted.

    No felony convictions in the United States, labour without permission, or overstaying history.

    In August 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of State extended eligibility, enabling individuals whose visas had expired within 48 months to apply using the drop box option.

    During the pandemic, this technique sought to decrease in-person interactions and expedite visa renewals.

    Removal of U.S. visa applications drop box during Donald Trump’s first term

    Read also: Thailand launch e-Visa application for Nigerians, Ghanaians, other African nations

    Nigeria’s drop box service has, however, been suspended in the past.

    Citing worries over Nigerian travellers overstaying their visas, the U.S. government eliminated the option in 2018, during Donald Trump’s first term.

    Due to the U.S. mission’s requirement at the time that all candidates undergo in-person interviews, processing periods were prolonged and visa appointments were delayed.

    Nigerians wishing to apply for American visas will now have to undergo in-person interviews instead of the drop box function, which has resulted in longer wait periods.

    Students, frequent tourists, and business travellers who previously depended on the drop box method for quicker renewals may be greatly impacted by this policy change.

  • Spirion expands to South Africa with new data centre

    Spirion expands to South Africa with new data centre

    Spirion LLC, a U.S.-based company specialising in data discovery, classification, and remediation, announced the opening of its first data centre in South Africa on January 8, 2025.

    This facility in Cape Town signifies Spirion’s commitment to enhancing data protection measures as organisations increasingly rely on sensitive information.

    Read also: KIXP, iXAfrica Data Centres partner to improve Internet connection across East Africa

    Expanding global presence

    This new centre is Spirion’s third international expansion within five months, following openings in Frankfurt and Sydney. 

    CEO Kevin Coppins expressed his enthusiasm about the launch, “Protecting what matters most—sensitive data—requires accurate data discovery and classification.” 

    The Cape Town facility will support local businesses in complying with South Africa’s Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) while transitioning to Spirion’s Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform.

    The demand for robust data security solutions is rising as Africa experiences rapid digital adoption. Spirion aims to meet this need by providing advanced tools for uncovering and managing sensitive data.

    The new centre is strategically positioned to serve the growing local market, offering enhanced capabilities for data analysis at the petabyte scale.

    Read also: ECA advocates for technology-driven higher education for Africa’s sustainable development

    Meeting local market needs

    As South Africa’s data centre colocation market is projected to grow significantly, Spirion’s investment reflects a broader trend of increasing demand for digital infrastructure.

    Research indicates that the market was valued at $330 million in 2023 and is expected to reach $780 million by 2029. This growth highlights the region’s critical need for secure data storage solutions.

    Spirion’s advanced Sensitive Data Platform (SDP) allows organisations to manage their data more effectively while ensuring compliance with various regulations. 

    Coppins emphasised, “Spirion now offers this critical capability for any sensitive data-related initiative regardless of industry and geographic location.” 

    By establishing a local presence, Spirion enhances its service offerings and reinforces its dedication to supporting customers with tailored solutions that address specific regulatory requirements.

  • AST SpaceMobile completes $113M deal for L-Band spectrum, gains independence from AT&T and Verizon

    AST SpaceMobile completes $113M deal for L-Band spectrum, gains independence from AT&T and Verizon

    AST SpaceMobile has acquired a 45MHz block of L-band spectrum across the U.S. and Canada from Ligado Networks, following Ligado’s declaration of bankruptcy. This acquisition allows AST to provide satellite-based cellular services independently, no longer reliant on partners like AT&T or Verizon.

    Previously, AST had agreements with major carriers, including Verizon and AT&T, to use their licensed frequencies to provide satellite connectivity to customers’ phones.

    However, with the new spectrum rights, AST can now operate independently, strengthening its ability to transmit satellite data directly to phones via the acquired radio bands.

    Read also: Compass Global’s initiative bridges Africa’s trade gaps, focuses on youth and women entrepreneurs

    Ligado Networks, which was also working on cellular satellite services in collaboration with Viasat and Skylo, declared bankruptcy on Monday. As part of the deal, AST SpaceMobile exchanged approximately $113 million worth of stock for the spectrum rights. In return, Ligado granted AST the right to use the spectrum for more than 80 years across U.S. and Canada.

    The acquisition strengthens AST’s ability to transmit satellite data to phones through the additional radio bands. The company is celebrating the deal as a victory, marking its transition to an independent satellite service provider.

    AST SpaceMobile now independent of offering its cellular satellite services 

    This implies that AST is not dependent on its carrier partners and can provide its cellular satellite services on its own.

    AST has agreements with Verizon and AT&T in the US to eventually provide satellite connectivity to customers’ phones, but only using their licensed radio frequency.

    Although AST did not provide specifics, it anticipates that the Ligado agreement will enable it to expand its capacity “while enabling peak data transmission speeds up to 120Mbps to everyday smartphones everywhere in the continental United States.”

    The drawback is that older phones usually don’t support L-band reception, so AST might have to reconfigure its BlueBird satellites to utilise the L-band spectrum, according to satellite industry analyst Tim Farrar.

    Read also: Elon Musk warns of AI’s potential to outsmart humans, calls for global regulation

    AST SpaceMobile sent first BlueBird satellites into Earth’s orbit 

    In September, AST sent its first set of BlueBird satellites into Earth’s orbit. However, the company still needs to launch dozens of more satellites before it can start providing US clients with complete coverage.

    Furthermore, regulatory clearance is still required for AST to test and run such services for profit in the United States.

    The company’s agreement with Ligado is anticipated to be finalised in the first half of 2025.

    Ligado might get $550 million from the purchase, according to AST, if specific closing conditions are met. For spectrum usage rights, AST SpaceMobile would also “give Ligado long-term net revenue sharing rights” and pay roughly $80 million annually.

  • Kenya, US jointly announce $12.8 million investments in agriculture

    Kenya, US jointly announce $12.8 million investments in agriculture

    Kenyan companies in the agriculture sector and the United States of America have jointly announced co-investments worth $12.8 million in a bid to enhance economic cooperation.

    This announcement unfolded during the U.S.-Kenya Business Roadshow, a collaborative effort by the U.S. government’s Prosper Africa initiative and the U.S. Embassy in Kenya.

    The event, which took place in Chicago, convened prominent U.S. businesses, investors, and a high-level delegation of Kenyan government officials. It aimed to spotlight the immense trade and investment prospects within Kenya’s thriving agriculture sector. Among the notable participants were industry leaders such as Land O’Lakes, John Deere, Hello Tractor, Boeing, Equity Bank, and Victory Farms, among others.

    Read also: Trimble to open up prospects in Nigeria’s agriculture, mining, others

    Unlocking Commitments from the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit

    Prosper Africa Coordinator, British A. Robinson, delivered on the commitments made at the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit by unveiling 13 new Prosper Africa co-investments. These co-investments are expected to catalyze approximately $34 million in Kenyan exports, further strengthening economic ties between the two nations.

    Robinson stated, “The African continent presents an almost limitless opportunity for business and investors looking for attractive markets to do well and do good. When you partner with Prosper Africa, you join the pursuit for strong returns that can also drive positive global change and take your enterprise to scale.”

    Fostering Regulatory Reforms and Investment Opportunities

    The event, hosted at the prestigious Art Institute of Chicago, placed a spotlight on regulatory reforms aimed at enriching Kenya’s business environment. These reforms open up significant investment opportunities for U.S. agriculture companies, fostering business growth and diversifying supply chains.

    Kenya’s agriculture sector stands as a key prospect for U.S. investors. In 2022, Kenya’s food and agricultural exports to the United States surged by nearly 19 percent, amounting to $190 million.

    Kenya’s Agri-Exports and Economic Significance

    U.S. Ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman, underscored the critical role of Kenya’s agriculture sector in the nation’s economy. She stated, “Africa stands as the last and largest emerging market. Kenya’s agri-exports generated $1.03 billion in revenue in 2022. This sector plays a pivotal role in Kenya’s economy and provides livelihoods for 75 percent of its workforce.”

    Creating Jobs and Strengthening Trade

    The newly announced co-investments will forge connections between American buyers and Kenyan agri-businesses, offering employment opportunities in both Kenya and the United States. 

    These co-investments encompass a wide range of initiatives, each contributing to the growth and development of Kenya’s agricultural sector. These co-investments encompass a range of initiatives in Kenya’s agriculture sector. The Kenya Private Sector Alliance aims to foster a circular economy within the plastic packaging sector, while Delish & Nutri focuses on producing aflatoxin-safe groundnuts. Semiconductor Technologies plans to expand by increasing local engineering capacity and manufacturing semiconductor tools. Victory Farms is scaling up tilapia production and creating jobs for smallholders. 

    Meanwhile, T3 EPZ is establishing plastic recycling hubs, and Bio Foods Products is raising awareness about aflatoxin and helping dairy farmers mitigate it. The Watamu Marine Association Community Initiative is expanding plastics collection and recycling, Kentaste Products is increasing export capacity, and Vert is enhancing dried mango processing while creating employment for women and youth.

    These co-investments build on the foundation laid by the $55 million in apparel-focused deals announced during the inaugural U.S.-Kenya Business Roadshow in New York City in April 2023. The Chicago event is part of a broader U.S.-Kenya Roadshow tour, aimed at showcasing Kenya as an attractive investment destination to U.S. investors and presenting lucrative investment opportunities.

    Revolutionizing Agriculture with Technology 

    Prosper Africa: Strengthening Economic Partnerships

    Prosper Africa, a Presidential-level national security initiative, is dedicated to reinforcing the strategic and economic partnership between the U.S. and Africa. Since 2019, the U.S. government has played a pivotal role in facilitating over 1,200 deals across 49 African countries, with a total estimated value of $70 billion in two-way trade and investment. This initiative underlines the commitment to foster economic growth and partnerships between the United States and African nations.

  • U.S., Africa Collaboration Vital For World Success -Biden

    U.S., Africa Collaboration Vital For World Success -Biden

    The United States has announced an agreement aimed at bolstering trade ties between America and Africa after the continent had taken a back seat to other U.S. priorities in recent years.

    The U.S. President, Joe Biden, made the disclosure on Wednesday, December 14, to African leaders who were present at a three-day summit in Washington.

    According to Biden, “The United States is all in on Africa’s future.” When Africa succeeds, the United States succeeds. “Quite frankly, the whole world succeeds as well.”

    Hence Biden’s remarks, as well as the summit, which is a major investment push by the United States to assert that America is a better partner for Africa than China. China has consistently grown its power over the past few years by funding infrastructure projects in Africa and other places, making it a leading player.

    Chinese trade with Africa is about four times that of the United States, and Beijing has become an important creditor by providing loans with less stringent conditions than Western lenders across digital technology, transportation and other sectors.

    Read also: WTO Charges African Nations to Adopt Digital Technology for Trade

    The U.S. and Africa Collaboration Benefits

    Biden said a new U.S. agreement with the African Continental Free Trade Area would give American businesses access to 1.3 billion people and a market valued at $3.4 trillion. He outlined companies that had made deals at the summit, including General Electric Co. (GE) and Cisco Systems Inc. (CSCO).

    Delegations from 49 countries and the African Union, including 45 African national leaders, are attending the three-day summit, which began on Tuesday and is the first of its kind since 2014. It’s part of a renewed push to boost ties with a continent where China’s security ambitions and trade have challenged U.S. interests and investment,  During the summit, Biden will talk about Africa and is likely to say that he wants the African Union to become a permanent member of the G20, which is a group of the world’s 20 largest economies. And lending drives. By contrast, Beijing has held its own high-level meetings with Africa every three years for more than two decades.

    During the Summit, Biden is expected to show interest in African Union becoming a permanent member of the G20, which is a group of the world’s 20 largest economies.

    As part of its long-term commitment to African leaders, U.S. companies announced more than $2 billion ($2.7 billion), led by technology deals.

    The White House says that Biden will talk about how important Africa is, support a bigger role for the African Union, and give the region about US$55 billion in aid over the next year. 

    After making an early statement about training health workers, the White House said on Wednesday that the United States would give US$350 million and help raise US$450 million for digital development in Africa. 

    The increasing connectivity will make more options available for US businesses while also promoting social equality and economic growth, the White House added.

    China has eclipsed the United States in the last 10 years in the area of investments in Africa, primarily through highly visible infrastructure projects that are frequently funded by loans that have reached a total of more than US$120 billion since the turn of the century.

    Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told leaders that China, as well as Russia, were “destabilising” the continent, noting that Beijing’s mega-contracts lacked transparency.

    The Commerce Department on Thursday also targeted nine Chinese entities for allegedly seeking to support China’s military modernization, including Shanghai Micro Electronics Equipment (SMEE), China’s only lithography company. A total of 35 Chinese entities were added to the US trade blacklist, known as the “entity list,” as well as YMTC’s Japan-based subsidiary.

    Thursday’s announcements weren’t all bad news for Beijing. The Biden administration removed Wuxi Biologics, a company that makes ingredients for AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine, and 25 other Chinese entities from the so-called unverified list thanks to successful site visits.

    AfDB launches the African Pharmaceutical Technology Foundation

    China’s Involvement in Africa’s Technological Advancement

    Research institute ISPI  2021 report highlighted that China’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) engagement with Africa dates back to decades ago, while Western nations just began paying attention to the continent.

    The article explained how much of Africa’s digital infrastructure has been financed and constructed by China since the late 1990s.

    Chinese companies, some of which are supported by the government, are increasingly well-positioned to create the digital ecosystems through which Africans interact, conduct business, make payments, and access public services after dominating markets through low prices.