What they said

Alemu Sime, PhD, Minister of Transport and Logistics, stated that "The Railway Academy will provide efficient transportation services by establishing a modern railway infrastructure to connect the country’s major development centres and all neighbouring countries." Ethiopian Railways Corporation (ERC) The Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer, Hlina Belachew (eng.), also added that "This is a crucial day in the journey of every great institution, when key moments and visions are transformed into reality; this groundbreaking ceremony is a foundation for knowledge, innovation, and the growth of Ethiopian and East African railways."

Uruguay has initiated a nationwide strategy to modernise its railway network in a bid to enhance regional trade and strengthen domestic transport connectivity. The plan, spearheaded by the Ministry of Transport and Public Works, is being developed in partnership with the National Development Corporation (CND) and the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF). The strategy aims to transform the rail system into a more sustainable and efficient mode of freight and passenger transport. Authorities say the initiative reflects a unified commitment to innovation, environmental sustainability, and long-term economic growth.

Uruguay advances seed research to strengthen potato sector

Uruguay is addressing persistent challenges in potato seed quality by advancing research and innovation in seed multiplication systems. While potatoes remain vital to national food security and the agricultural economy, high-quality seed access, particularly for greenhouse and small-scale producers, remains limited. The National Institute of Agricultural Research (INIA) has developed cultivars resistant to PVY viruses and key diseases such as Phytophthora infestans and Alternaria solani. However, the cost and scarcity of quality seeds, often imported and ill-suited to local conditions, continue to hinder productivity.

Uruguay strengthens ties with Italy, seeks EU-MERCOSUR progress

Uruguayan Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin met with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani in Rome to reinforce bilateral relations and advance Uruguay’s engagement with the European Union. The meeting highlighted strong cooperation in political, commercial, and cultural spheres, supported by Uruguay’s significant Italian community. Lubetkin welcomed Italy’s continued support for Latin America and its role in promoting regional interests within the EU. Both ministers discussed the pending EU-MERCOSUR trade agreement. Tajani reaffirmed Italy’s backing for the deal while stressing the importance of addressing concerns from sectors such as agriculture.

Uruguayan President Orsi begins international tour

Uruguayan President Yamandú Orsi has commenced an international tour that includes official visits to Spain, Argentina, and Brazil. Vice President Carolina Cosse assumed executive duties this morning ahead of Orsi's departure. In Spain, Orsi will participate in the United Nations’ Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, held in Seville. He is expected to attend a dinner hosted by King Felipe VI on Sunday and deliver an address at the UN forum on Monday. On Tuesday, July 2, Orsi will travel to Buenos Aires to attend his first MERCOSUR summit as President. He is scheduled to return to Uruguay on Wednesday night and will welcome Uruguayan peacekeepers returning from the Democratic Republic of the Congo the following morning. Later that day, Orsi will travel to Brazil for bilateral meetings and to attend the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro.

Uruguay issues $400 million in Swiss franc bonds to finance 2025 deficit

Uruguay has issued CHF 320 million (approximately USD 400 million) in sovereign bonds, marking its first entry into the Swiss franc market. The bonds, with five- and ten-year maturities, carry an average annual interest rate of 1.33% and will contribute to financing the country's projected USD 6 billion fiscal deficit for 2025. Economy Minister Gabriel Oddone emphasised the strategic importance of the issuance, citing Switzerland’s reputation for high-quality investors. “This is a club Uruguay intends to belong to,” he said. Oddone added that Uruguay is currently the only Latin American country issuing bonds in Swiss francs, reflecting a broader effort to diversify currency exposure.

A new partnership between SHONA Capital and Cornerstone Asset Managers is poised to inject significant funding into Uganda’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly within the agriculture and healthcare sectors. This $500,000 investment seeks to provide essential capital, thereby mitigating the reliance on foreign currency financing which has contributed to a staggering $4.7 billion financing shortfall for Ugandan SMEs. SHONA Capital is committed to providing not only financial resources but also managerial guidance, while Cornerstone Asset Managers will draw on their extensive wealth management expertise to support the initiative.

TCS World 10K Marathon

Prominent Ugandan and Kenyan runners are set to make their mark in the upcoming TCS World 10K Marathon scheduled for April 27 in Bengaluru. Ugandan Olympian Joshua Cheptegei will return to this prestigious event after almost ten years, where he will face tough competition, including local compatriot Stephen Kissa and a strong Kenyan contender in Vincent Langat, who has shown impressive recent form. The women's event will also witness fierce competition from Eritrea’s Rahel Daniel, Ethiopia ’s Asmarech Anley, and Uganda's Sarah Chelangat, all of whom have demonstrated remarkable performances at recent major competitions.

Christianity and Morality

Ugandan Catholic bishops have released a pastoral letter of significant concern regarding the declining moral and spiritual values within the nation. Titled “The Truth will set you free,” the document discusses grave issues such as escalating homicide rates, pervasive corruption, and human rights violations. The bishops emphasise the urgent need for actions to combat what they describe as a moral and spiritual crisis, exacerbated by growing poverty, youth unemployment, and rampant alcohol abuse. The letter further condemns abortion and corruption, advocating for enhanced protection for anti-corruption activists and ensuring the independence of anti-graft agencies.

Railway extension project

In regional infrastructure developments, Kenya has secured an impressive $5.3 billion in funding from a consortium of Chinese companies aimed at reviving a stalled railway extension project to Uganda. According to the agreement, the consortium will contribute 40% of the funding and will manage the 475-kilometre Standard Gauge Railway line from Naivasha to Malaba, collecting toll fees to recover their investment. Additionally, the Export-Import Bank of China will finance 30% of the project with loans, featuring a grace period that extends until 2029. The remaining costs will be covered by Kenya through a railway development levy. Republic of Congo, signalling an important step in regional connectivity.

FIFA U-17 World Cup

In the sphere of youth football, Uganda, Gambia, Angola, and Egypt are fervently battling it out for places in the FIFA U-17 World Cup, set to take place in Qatar in 2025. The decisive matches at the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco will unfold on Saturday at El Abdi Stadium. Uganda's under-17 team is strategically positioned to face Gambia at 17:00 GMT, with aspirations of achieving their first World Cup qualification while facing a well-versed Gambia squad. Meanwhile, Angola will challenge Egypt at 20:00 GMT, with Angola seeking a defining victory, while Egypt aims for a return to the World Cup arena for the first time since 1997.

Afghanistan's new school year has begun under a restrictive policy that prohibits girls from attending classes beyond the sixth grade News.az reports. The acting Education Minister, Mawlawi Habibullah Agha, stressed the importance of both religious and modern education for Afghanistan's engagement on a global scale. While over 10 million children will attend school—boys from grades one to twelve and girls up to grade six—the ban on higher education for girls highlights ongoing gender-based educational limitations in the country.

Torkham border reopens after 27 days

The Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan has reopened after a 27-day closure due to disputes over construction activities. ANI reports that the reopening, effective March 20, followed negotiations between jirga members from both nations and includes a ceasefire lasting until April 15. The previous closure had caused significant trade disruptions, with 5,000 trucks stranded and an estimated financial loss of millions. As of now, the border permits cargo movement, with pedestrian passages set to resume after critical repairs are carried out. Both countries have also agreed to halt the construction of checkposts in the border area.

Railway connections

Afghanistan is actively pursuing enhancements to its railway connections with neighbouring countries such as Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Pakistan. This initiative, according to Pajhwok Afghan News , was underscored at the International Peace and Trust conference held in Turkmenistan, where Mohammad Ashraf Haqshanas, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works, highlighted the crucial role of railways in regional economic growth and trade facilitation. The conference brought together representatives from 100 countries to address railway expansion along with issues pertaining to energy transmission, thereby aiming to bolster economic stability within the region.

Afghanistan’s Islamic Emirate condemns Israeli assault on Gaza

The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has expressed severe condemnation of the recent Israeli military operations in Gaza, which have resulted in over 300 Palestinian deaths, predominantly among women and children. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs denounced these acts as violations of human rights, advocating for global solidarity with the Palestinian populace. Afghanistan reiterated its support for the Palestinian cause, perceiving it as a legitimate right of the Islamic Ummah, Ilkha reports.

Effects of USAID cuts on Aghan women students

The plight of Afghan women scholars remains critical as more than 80 women studying in Oman under US-funded scholarships received a temporary reprieve after initial funding cuts due to reduced USAID allocations. The US State Department has confirmed that these scholarships will continue until June 30, 2025, allowing these women, who fled the Taliban government where educational opportunities for females are severely restricted, to pursue graduate studies, particularly in STEM fields. While grateful for the financial extension, these scholars remain apprehensive about their future and the potential risks upon returning to Afghanistan, BBC reports.

The ongoing Israeli-Hezbollah conflict has prompted Indonesia to repatriate 14 citizens from Lebanon, reaching a total of 79 citizens returned. The government's appeal for evacuation highlights the heightened security risks, with 85 Indonesians reportedly remaining in Lebanon, many choosing to stay due to family ties, Asia News Network reports.

Indonesia urges recognition of Palestine

Indonesia has advocated for the recognition of Palestine by Australia, Japan, and South Korea. During the ASEAN summit, Vice President Ma’ruf Amin underscored that acknowledging Palestine could enhance its negotiating power with Israel, a crucial step in advancing peace in the volatile region. Despite 146 countries recognising Palestine by June, the reluctance of major players like the US and Canada hinders meaningful progress. The Indonesian Foreign Affairs Ministry has argued that such recognition is essential to avert further bloodshed, as witnessed by the mounting death toll in Gaza, which surpassed 42,000, as reported by Arab News . 

iPhone 16 launch delay

Apple faces regulatory challenges that have delayed its iPhone 16 launch in Indonesia. The delay stems from the expiration of the Domestic Component Level (TKDN) certification, combined with an unmet investment commitment of 240 billion rupiah (roughly $15.4 million) against a total promise of 1.71 trillion rupiah (roughly $109.85 million). Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita remarked:  “Apple previously held this certification, but it has now lapsed.” He mentioned that the ministry is also waiting for the tech company to deliver on its pledged investment, the Sun reports. 

Manufacturing collaboration with Japanese companies

Ten Indonesian manufacturing firms have formalised a $10 million agreement with Japanese companies at the Manufacturing World Osaka exhibition. The exhibition garnered substantial interest with over 500 visitors to the Indonesian booth, according to local media Tempo Co . The deal was celebrated by Minister of Industry Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita. "This agreement not only demonstrates the potential of Indonesian products but also the trust from foreign parties in the quality and competitiveness of the national industry," he was quoted to have said in a press statement.

Launch of longest elevated railway

Indonesia's transport infrastructure is set for a significant upgrade with the impending launch of its longest elevated railway aimed for November 1, linking Semarang and Solo in Central Java. With preliminary weight tests planned for October 23 and 24, this Rp1.2 trillion (about $76.7 million) project spans 1.8 kilometres and integrates cultural elements into its design. The elevated railway is expected to significantly alleviate traffic congestion by addressing delays caused by conventional train crossings, thus enhancing mobility within the region, state news agency Antara reports. 

Operations will be funded by rail users and aim to ensure “safe, efficient and equitable access” to infrastructure , according to the Executive Order.

The policy “underscores the government’s dedication to fostering a robust rail infrastructure that supports Liberia’s growing mining sector, enhances the transportation of goods and passengers, and strengthens the national economy,” the president’s office said in a statement.

Another result of the decision could be to unlock progress on the “Liberty Corridor”, a new route linking Guinea to a new commercial port at Didia, Liberia, according to one of the project’s key backers, mining and exploration company HPX.

“HPX is looking forward to finalising our rail access agreements with the Government of Liberia in the next few weeks and is delighted to see the commitment by the president to the National Rail Authority and multi-user access infrastructure,” the company’s president and CEO Bronwyn Barnes said in a statement. Feasibility studies on the Liberty Corridor route could be concluded “quickly” afterwards, she added.

As well as its own mineral exports, Liberia’s railways could provide a more efficient transit route from mines in southern Guinea. Boakai also believes local economies will benefit from passenger and good transport if routes can be developed and modernised.

Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) President Jin Liqun met to discuss expanding strategic cooperation between Uzbekistan and the AIIB. They solidified their collaboration with the signing of a $4 billion Cooperation Roadmap. The meeting also proposed drafting a long-term Strategic Partnership Programme for infrastructure development until 2030, focusing on public-private partnerships and poverty alleviation strategies.

Importation of natural gas totalling $1.15 billion

The energy sector in Uzbekistan is witnessing transformative growth, demonstrated by the surge in natural gas imports. From January to August 2023, the country imported $1.15 billion of natural gas—a nearly six-fold increase compared to the same timeframe last year, with August alone contributing $168.3 million. Additionally, gas exports have also risen, tallying up to $404.8 million, marking a 7.1% increase over the previous year, which signifies a robust upward trend in the energy market, Daijiworld  reports.

China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project

The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project aimed at enhancing connectivity across Central Asia is scheduled for completion within five years. Spanning over 450 km, the railway project, predominantly funded by China is estimated to cost $1.34 billion, Azer News reports. This initiative is a critical segment of the New Silk Road transport corridor, integrating Central Asian nations into the wider European railway network and supporting regional economic integration, with total investments in related projects anticipated to reach approximately $8 billion.

Qatar, Uzbekistan review bilateral ties

During the 9th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) in Samarkand, southeastern Uzbekistan, President Mirziyoyev engaged in discussions with Qatar's Finance Minister Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari on strategies for enhancing bilateral economic and trade relations between both nations. According to the Peninsular Qatar , the discussion also emphasised the role of resilient infrastructure in achieving global developmental objectives.

Bangladesh seeks market access for goods in Uzbekistan

Bangladesh's Economic Relations Division (ERD) Secretary, Md Shahriar Kader Siddiky in a bilateral meeting, advocated for better market access for Bangladeshi goods in Uzbekistan, highlighting sectors like ready-made garments, pharmaceuticals, and jute yarn. This dialogue, set against the backdrop of rich historical ties, focused on expediting bilateral agreements, direct flight operations, and visa process simplification—all aimed at facilitating improved business and tourism relations. Uzbekistan Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade Laziz Kudratov expressed the Uzbek government’s commitment to economic engagement with Bangladesh, underscoring the potential for dynamic trade relations between these two nations, local media BSS News reports.

The vibrant fabric of Zambia's cultural landscape was prominently displayed during the 2024 National Arts Festival in Lusaka. Organised meticulously by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Art and the Zambia National Arts Council, this festival served as a nexus for artistic expression, bringing together artists from various backgrounds. The News Diggers reports that through a series of captivating performances and fashion shows, this event underscored the emotional resonance of art while fostering a communal spirit, culminating in a celebration of creativity that reaffirmed the vital role of art in mirroring the nation's socio-cultural essence.

Google to build an AI centre

In a significant technological advancement, Google has announced the establishment of an Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence at the University of Zambia. This initiative comes after a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Technology and Science. As articulated by Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati, this AI centre marks a pioneering effort as the first of its kind in Southern Africa, strategically situated at the Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN). As reported by TechAfrica News , the primary objective of this centre is to empower young innovators, equipping them with the necessary tools to devise solutions for local challenges. Furthermore, ZAMREN's noteworthy achievement of connecting 150 institutions to high-speed internet is instrumental in broadening student access, thereby fostering an environment conducive to innovation.

Tanzania-Zambia Railway to be rejuvenated

The regional cooperation between China, Tanzania, and Zambia is set to rejuvenate the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA), which was initially established in the 1970s to enhance Zambia’s accessibility. This collaborative agreement, formalised during the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit, signals a public-private partnership aimed at the rehabilitation of this critical transport artery. According to Globely News , the revival of TAZARA is especially pertinent given Zambia's current financial challenges, as this renewed focus by China is also an effort to counterbalance the strategic movements surrounding the U.S.-backed Lobito Corridor project which connects Zambia to Angola’s Atlantic port. Concurrently, Tanzania is undertaking its railway network expansion, with aspirations to position Dar es Salaam as a pivotal trade hub in the region.

Huawei donates telecom towers

Huawei has donated equipment for 25 communication towers to enhance national communication services. The donation, including wireless and transmission technology power systems, was formalized during President Hakainde Hichilema’s visit to China in September 2023 and solidified through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Technology and Science in June 2024. Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati announced that Zamtel will oversee the construction of these towers in remote areas with limited phone service access, as reported by Telecompaper .

De-dollarisation strategy in progress

Zambia's central bank is actively engaging in a de-dollarisation strategy to mitigate the depreciation of the kwacha, which has faced a staggering 22% decline against the dollar over the past year. Governor Denny Kalyalya disclosed that this initiative, first announced in June, is designed to curtail the use of foreign currency in local transactions, thereby augmenting the effectiveness of monetary policy. Bitcoinnews.com reports this plan, however, has encountered criticism as Zambia grapples with the challenges of recovering from a debt default coupled with an extensive power crisis that restricts electricity supply to households. Despite the limited usage of foreign currency in everyday transactions, certain sectors, notably real estate and automotive sales, continue to engage in dollar-based pricing. The central bank remains in consultation with various stakeholders, and a timeline for the implementation of this de-dollarisation strategy has yet to be established.

Ordered by Muhammad Yunus , the leader of the new caretaker government, reopening marks a significant step towards restoring normalcy in the capital, Dhaka.

"When the metro was shut down, I had to travel by bus. That was the only mode of transport I could use. I had to face many jams, but there was no jam on the metro. It used to take two hours on the bus but with the metro, I can reach my destination in 15 minutes," said Kaosar Khan, a metro commuter told AFP.

The Dhaka Metro was inaugurated in 2022 and has been one of the key infrastructure projects of Hasina's tenure.

The Bank of Tanzania has implemented a significant regulatory measure by declaring the prohibition of unlicensed digital lending entities within the nation. The public is advised to confirm the legitimacy of lenders' licenses before any transactions, in adherence to the recent mandate. This initiative by the central bank addresses the rising issues related to unethical loan services, such as the public shaming of individuals who fail to repay debts and the imposition of steep interest rates. It is anticipated that this ruling will affect more than 100 digital lending applications that are not officially registered, which serve nearly a third of the adult population who do not have access to conventional banking services, as reported by Africa24 .

First SGR railway operations

Tanzania's railway administration has launched the inaugural commercial service of the electric standard gauge railway (SGR), connecting Dar es Salaam with the Morogoro region, spanning a distance of 300 kilometres. On Friday, the Deputy Minister for Transport, David Kihenzile, announced that the first electric SGR journey transported 1,400 passengers at no cost from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro. He noted that the train departed from Dar es Salaam at 6:10 a.m. local time and reached its destination in Morogoro at 7:55 a.m. local time. "The maiden electric SGR commercial operations between the two destinations was historic," said Kihenzile. He further mentioned that President Samia Suluhu Hassan graciously covered the travel expenses for the round trip between Dar es Salaam and Morogoro, as a gesture of her support for the commencement of the commercial services according to CGTN .

Stricter traffic laws

Tanzania's Finance Minister Mwigulu Nchemba is advocating to overhaul existing traffic regulations with more stringent measures should they prove insufficient in curbing road fatalities. Addressing the parliament on Thursday, June 13, 2024, while presenting the Sh49.3 trillion (USD18.8 million) budget for the fiscal year 2024/25, Dr Nchemba suggested that if the prevailing laws are perceived as overly permissive, it may be necessary to elevate the categorisation of all traffic-related offences from minor infractions to major criminal acts, with the recommendation that they be considered equivalent to homicide where applicable, according to The Citizen . “Honourable Speaker, violation of road traffic laws, even by government drivers, is viewed as inconvenient and sometimes develops animosity when the traffic police remind us about road safety. It is high time the community adopted a zero-tolerance attitude against road accidents. We cannot tolerate any more losing our workforce easily. Traffic officers should show no leniency towards anyone violating the road traffic laws,” said Dr Nchemba.

Climate change mitigation

On June 14, 2024, the Tanzanian government emphasised the importance of safeguarding water bodies, woodlands, and biodiversity as a key strategy in bolstering the nation's initiatives against climate change. According to The Citizen , the Deputy Minister of State in the Vice President's Office, Khamis Hamza Khamis, highlighted this priority while addressing the Climate Change Forum hosted by Mwananchi Communications Limited (MCL), under the banner "Journey to a Greener and Sustainable Future." In his keynote address, Mr. Khamis referenced the renowned Kenyan environmentalist Wangari Maathai, underscoring her focus on the vital elements of the environment: water, forests, and living organisms. “We should conserve water sources and therefore the environment by prohibiting human activities close to water sources. Every stakeholder should actively take part in the tree planting and councils should meet the target of planting 1.5 million annually and ensure planted trees progress well to maturity,” he said.

Tanzania's budget leans on loans 

The Tanzanian government plans to fund 30% of its budget for the fiscal year 2024/25 through loans and grants, as revealed in the budget proposal presented to parliament on Thursday, June 13, 2024. Finance Minister Mwigulu Nchemba outlined that the country's projected expenditure for the upcoming fiscal year is Sh49.35 trillion. Of this, Sh33.25 trillion (USD12.7 million)is expected to be raised through domestic revenues by the central government, which constitutes 67% of the total budget, as reported by The Citizen .

Unusually high temperatures in Pakistan are causing ancient ruins in Mohenjo Daro a town in Sindh, southeastern Pakistan to deteriorate, threatening the UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to 2,500 BC. The extreme weather is causing the ruins to contract, leading to structural damage. The site has also been affected by heavy rains and floods, leading to collapsed walls and other structural damage. “Due to the prevailing heat wave, the ruins of Mohenjo Daro bricks are gradually melting,” Ali Hyder, an archaeological engineer with the Sindh Culture, Tourism & Antiquities Department in Mohenjo Daro, told Arab News .

Donkey population rises

Pakistan's donkey population has increased by 1.72% to reach 5.9 million in the 2023-24 fiscal year, while horses and mules remained unchanged, according to the nation’s latest official livestock data. Livestock, including cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, and camels, has shown growth in Pakistan's rural economy, with the sector accounting for 60.84% of the agricultural value added and 14.63% of GDP. The gross value addition of the livestock sector has increased to Rs 5,804 billion in 2023-24, Business Standard reports.

Over 600,000 Afghans deported from Pakistan

Pakistan has deported over 600,000 Afghan nationals as part of a deportation drive aimed at illegal foreigners. The government blames Afghan nationals for smuggling, militant violence, and other crimes. The majority of migrants in Pakistan are Afghans, many arrived after the Taliban seized control of Kabul in 2021, but many had been in the country since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, according to Arab News . The deportation drive has strained relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Locally manufactured wagons added to railway fleet

Pakistan Railways has added 40 high-capacity wagons to its fleet, manufactured locally with Chinese technology. The wagons can carry 70 tons and move containers were unveiled at the Cantt Railway Station in Lahore, the second largest city in Pakistan on June 12. "Local manufacturing of wagons is a major step towards self-reliance," Pakistan Railways' Chief Executive Officer Amir Ali Baloch said. According to the Pakistani Railways, manufacturing wagons at the local level will increase income by over Rs9 billion ($32.3 million) annually and save foreign exchange reserves, local media the News reports.

Unveiling of budget

Pakistan will unveil its budget for the fiscal year to June 2025, with analysts expecting ambitious fiscal targets to strengthen the case for a new IMF bailout deal. The budget is expected to stick to fiscal prudence under the IMF program, but concerns remain about the government's ability to pursue reform due to coalition politics and public pressure. The budget will be in line with IMF requirements, but adherence to fiscal austerity and containment of populism will be the real challenge, Arab News reports.

Tajikistan and South Korea are discussing the feasibility of building a metro system in Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan to address transportation needs. A memorandum signed in March 2022 initiated the collaborative effort, and the Ministry of Transport of Tajikistan secured funding from the Export-Import Bank of South Korea, according to Daryo News Agency . Representatives from both countries have been working on the project for over 11 months, and the potential metro system could enhance urban mobility and support economic growth in Dushanbe.

Investors for $7.5 Billion in railway projects

Tajikistan's Ministry of Transport has announced plans for more than 10 railway projects requiring $7.5 billion in investment . According to the nation’s Minister of Transport, Azim Ibrohim, the projects aim to improve transport corridors through Central and Southeast Asia, the Middle East, the European Union, Russia, and Turkey. Tajikistan is seeking investors to fund the projects due to the underdeveloped railway network, the minister said.

Trade cooperation with Pakistan

Pakistan's Federal Minister for Privatisation and Communications Abdul Aleem Khan visited Tajikistan to strengthen bilateral relations and boost trade. He met with Tajik Prime Minister Qohir Rasulzada and other officials to discuss cooperation in trade, communication, and transportation. According to Pakistani media Samaa , the two also explored opportunities for Tajikistan to export food commodities to Pakistan. Khan expressed optimism for enhanced economic cooperation between Pakistan and Central Asian states, Samaa reports.

Chinese leather and wool factories

Chinese firm plans to open leather and wool factories in Tajikistan, pending land allocation. If approved, construction and equipment delivery will start in June. According to reports, the Tajikistan Khatlon region, in the southwest of the country sees this as vital for economic advancement and technology implementation. Last year, the region produced 1.140 million pieces of livestock leather and 5,970 tonnes of wool.

Development of female entrepreneurship

A conference was held in Tajikistan’s capital, Dushanbe by the Centre for Strategic Study under the President of Tajikistan to discuss the situation, problems, grants, and recommendations for female entrepreneurship in the Central Asian country. Out of the nearly 90,000 female entrepreneurs who have worked in the country as of January 1, most of them are into primitive business, Asia Plus reported.

“The financing of the proposed project will be done under a government-to-government arrangement between the Republic of Kenya and the People’s Republic of China through the Exim Bank of China and syndicated loans from commercial banks,” Murkomen told the East African .

Kenyan President William Ruto during Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni’s state visit to Nairobi on May 16, emphasised the strategic importance of extending the SGR from Naivasha to the Kenyan border town of Malaba, then onward to Uganda's capital, Kampala, and further into the Democratic Republic of Congo as an efficient and sustainable transportation route for goods.

“We have obliged our respective Ministers to take joint urgent measures to mobilize resources for the implementation of this regional shared infrastructure and report on progress by the end of 2024,” President Ruto added.

The extended railway line is expected to enhance regional connectivity, providing a competitive advantage by linking Kenya with Uganda, South Sudan, Rwanda, and the DRC.

The commitment from state-owned Chinese bank follows the recent inclusion of Rwanda, Burundi, the DRC, and South Sudan in the SGR Cluster Joint Ministerial Committee. These East African states have pledged to engage development partners in securing further funding for the railway project, in a collective regional effort to bolster infrastructure and economic integration.

Despite the progress made on the joint Kenya-Uganda railway venture, financial constraints have remained a persistent challenge, as the current railway line terminates in Naivasha, situated in Kenya's Central Rift region. 

Uganda’s Minister of Works and Transport Fred Byamukama commenting on the proposed contractor for the project and financing said “It was a challenge to do the project piecemeal, we cannot have SGR in Malaba to Kampala if Naivasha-Malaba is not complete. That is why we are seeking funds to ensure the sections are done simultaneously.”

According to Kipchumba Murkomen, the Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Roads and Transport, the inclusion of additional countries in the railway cluster will boost the bargaining power of Kampala and Nairobi when engaging with potential donors.

“Kenya and Uganda have completed harmonization of the technical specifications and standards. Rwanda hopes to join the framework between Uganda and Yapi Merkezi, to update of feasibility study of Mirama Hills-Kigali section, which will make the project more viable,” said Murkomen.

Meanwhile, EAC member states have affirmed their commitment to mobilise resources by engaging with development partners. The primary objective is to secure the necessary funding required to extend the railway from its current endpoint in Naivasha to the Kenyan border town of Malaba, onward to Uganda's capital, Kampala, and further into Rwanda and South Sudan.

Constructed by China's state-owned CCECC construction firm, the Red Line spans a 27-kilometer (16.7-mile) route from a suburb just outside Lagos, commuting through the Yaba district, a hotspot for Nigeria's burgeoning technology startup sector. The next phase is expected to extend an additional 10 kilometres, reaching Marina, a prominent business district along Lagos's waterways.

With an estimated cost of $135 million, as disclosed by the Lagos government, this rail project is the second of its kind to be introduced in the city within the past year. The prior addition was the 13-kilometer first phase of the electricity-powered "Blue Line," which commenced operations in September. The collective aim is to transform Lagos's transportation landscape, with the trains anticipated to transport over half a million residents daily. Commute times are expected to be significantly reduced compared to traditional road transportation.

Lagos, which contributes a fifth of Nigeria's GDP, is comparable in economic size to nations like Ghana, Kenya, Angola, and Ethiopia. Despite its economic significance, the city has long grappled with a subpar road network, consistently ranking among the least habitable cities.

The investment seeks to not only address traffic congestion but also attract more businesses to Africa's largest city, fostering economic growth and enhancing the overall quality of life for its residents.

This will be subdivided into three lots: Tabora – Kigoma (411 km) and Uvinza – Malagarasi (156 km) sections in Tanzania; and the Malagarasi –Musongati section (84 km) in Burundi. This standard gauge railway project will be connected to the existing railway network of Tanzania, providing access to the port of Dar es Salaam.

The first phase of the project comprised a total of 400 kilometres of rail infrastructure built in Tanzania from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma. The rest of the section from Dodoma to Tabora is under construction.

The African Development Bank Group will extend $98.62 million in grants to Burundi and $597.79 million in loans and guarantees to Tanzania. In its role as the Initial Mandate Lead Arranger (IMLA), the Bank will structure and mobilize financing amounting to up to $3.2 billion from commercial banks, Development Financial Institutions (DFIs), Export Credit Agencies (ECAs), and institutional investors. The overall project cost, covering both Tanzania and Burundi, is projected to be nearly $3.93 billion.

The establishment of this railway will enable Burundi to enhance the extraction of nickel, as it possesses the 10th largest deposit globally in the Musongati mining fields. Additionally, the country holds resources like lithium and cobalt, which are anticipated to generate substantial revenue through the rail connection with the port of Dar es Salaam, currently handling 80% of the country's import and export trade.