In the UK, residents are typically taxed on income such as dividends paid through their businesses. The Daily Mail reported that Joshua received £10.1 million in dividends in 2024, up from £6.3 million the year before. It also reported that Sparta Promotions posted £20.396 million in earnings in 2024 and paid about £6.65 million in UK taxes.

By contrast, Dubai is widely seen as attractive to wealthy individuals because the UAE does not levy personal income tax, making it a draw for internationally mobile stars whose earnings often include sponsorship and endorsement deals alongside sporting income.

Joshua has also expanded his property footprint in the region. Reports in December said he bought a high-end home in Sultan Haitham City near Muscat, Oman, including a large penthouse.

Joshua confirmed the move in the same week that former England footballer Rio Ferdinand and his wife spoke publicly about life in Dubai during heightened regional tensions.

Panama’s government has proposed a shift in fuel policy that would make ethanol blending mandatory in gasoline and introduce accompanying fiscal adjustments for fuel products. According to officials, the initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions, support agricultural sectors that produce biofuel feedstocks, and align energy policy with environmental commitments. The proposal would reshape the current fuel taxation scheme, though exact blend ratios and timelines are yet to be finalised. Lawmakers and industry stakeholders are now reviewing the plan, with debates expected over costs, infrastructure readiness and impacts on consumers and transport sectors. Critics caution that mandatory ethanol could raise fuel prices if implementation is not carefully managed.

Court upholds Ministry of Public Works fine against Fourth Bridge consortium

Panama’s Third Chamber of the Supreme Court has ruled that a fine imposed by the Ministry of Public Works (MOP) on the consortium responsible for the Fourth Bridge project is not illegal. The court found that the sanction, related to contractual compliance issues, fell within legal bounds and did not violate due process. The decision was welcomed by the MOP as an affirmation of the government’s authority to enforce infrastructure contracts, but it drew scrutiny from the contractor, which has argued that the penalty was disproportionate. The ruling could affect future infrastructure disputes and reinforces legal oversight on major public-private projects. Legal experts say the case highlights the judiciary’s role in balancing state interests and investor rights.

Allegations surface over “secret” Panama Canal expansion project

Reports have emerged alleging a secret project linked to the Panama Canal expansion, suggesting that undisclosed plans may be underway for additional waterway works beyond the official multipurpose programme. Critics and analysts argue that if true, such covert initiatives could divert resources and undermine transparency in one of the country’s most strategic assets. Government agencies and canal authorities have not publicly confirmed the specifics of the alleged project, but the discussion has intensified scrutiny of governance practices and public communication surrounding canal operations. Panama’s waterway is central to national income and global shipping, so any suggestion of hidden plans draws considerable attention from civil society and economic stakeholders.

Trade deficit with Mercosur hits US$490 million

Panama’s commercial deficit with Mercosur nations (a South American trade bloc including Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay) has reached approximately US$490 million, according to the latest statistics. Analysts attribute the imbalance to higher Panamanian imports of vehicles, electronics and manufactured goods from Mercosur countries compared to Panama’s exports in agriculture and services. Business associations are calling for renewed focus on export competitiveness and diversification to narrow the gap, while trade experts note that Panama’s strategic position as a logistics hub makes balanced trade with regional partners both a challenge and an opportunity. The deficit figure underscores ongoing structural trade issues that policymakers are seeking to address.

Preparations begin for the 2026 “Mil Polleras” parade

Organisers have begun finalising plans for the 2026 Mil Polleras Parade, a celebrated cultural event showcasing Panama’s traditional dress and folk heritage. Preparations include the rental of tarimas (stages/platforms) at a cost of about US$54,000, indicating the scale and logistical complexity of the festivities. The “Mil Polleras” event draws participants and spectators from across the country and abroad, highlighting regional costumes, music and dance. Officials say early planning is essential to ensure safety, scheduling and cultural programming, as well as to accommodate expected tourism. The parade remains a hallmark of Panamanian identity and civic pride.

Abdala emphasised that Uruguay's concentration of wealth provides what he called a clear “capacity for contribution”, warning that without urgent action, the impact of child poverty will become “structural” and be passed down through generations.

According to PIT-CNT, child poverty has reached 32.2 per cent among children under six and continues to rise. The proposal for a targeted wealth tax was formally presented in late November at the University of the Republic's ParaInfo auditorium, where union leaders, members of the Broad Front and government representatives gathered to discuss the growing crisis.

The government , however, has dismissed the initiative, stating that discussions on new taxes are “over” since the fiscal framework has already been defined in the national budget. Despite this stance, the proposal has triggered significant public and political debate, placing renewed attention on inequality and the social responsibilities of Uruguay's highest earners.

The move also comes as Japan looks for ways to pay for major domestic commitments such as expanding free high school tuition, a policy that needs long-term funding but is politically sensitive if imposed on voters.

Why is Japan raising fees now?

The government says travel infrastructure is under financial strain. Officials argue that busier airports, tighter border controls and digital systems require new investment. They insist that those who use these services, particularly international travellers, should contribute more to their upkeep, The Asahi Shimbun reports.

What fees are likely to increase?

The current departure tax, introduced in 2019, is expected to rise. Visa and residency application fees are also under review, with the government aiming to bring them in line with countries such as the United States and those in Europe.

A new online entry authorisation system, known as the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (JESTA), is also being planned for visitors from visa-waiver countries. It will require travellers to apply in advance and pay a fee, similar to the U.S. ESTA system.

Will Japanese citizens be affected?

While the departure tax applies to all passengers leaving Japan, officials have suggested cutting passport renewal fees for Japanese citizens to offset the increase. However, foreign nationals would not benefit from such adjustments.

Indonesia’s Health Ministry has clarified that the declaration of a food poisoning emergency linked to the free nutritious meal programme (MBG) will not trigger a nationwide suspension. Inspector General Murti Utami said only nutrition service units (SPPG) found to be the source of contamination will be halted. “The MBG program is not automatically terminated in all schools in regions declaring a food poisoning emergency. Only problematic SPPGs will be temporarily suspended,” she said on Friday. Murti explained that outbreaks are declared based on epidemiological studies identifying the same toxic substance and food source. She stressed that safety measures and system improvements are being prioritised to protect student beneficiaries.

Large share of East Java grant funds lost to corruption

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has found that only 55 to 70% of East Java’s community grant funds (pokir) from 2019-2022 reached the public, with the rest siphoned off through fees and kickbacks. Acting Deputy for Enforcement Asep Guntur Rahayu said former East Java DPRD chairman Kusnadi received Rp398.7 billion in grant allocations over four years, of which significant portions were diverted. Field coordinators and other actors allegedly split the funds, with Kusnadi taking 15-20%. Asep said Kusnadi pocketed at least Rp79 billion, partly transferred to his wife and staff. The KPK has named 21 suspects in the bribery case, linked to earlier operations that exposed widespread graft in the provincial legislature.

Indonesia extends tax relief to tourism workers as part of stimulus push

The Indonesian government began implementing income tax relief for tourism workers on October 1 as part of President Prabowo Subianto’s economic stimulus. The incentive targets hotel, restaurant, and café employees earning up to IDR 10 million (USD $640) monthly, benefiting about 552,000 workers with a 100% tax subsidy. Budgeted at IDR 120 billion for 2025’s last quarter, the program will extend through 2026 with IDR 480 billion. Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana said relief may expand to hotel operators as authorities address unregulated villas and structural challenges in Indonesia’s vital tourism industry.

Jakarta vows to shield public programmes amid IDR 15 trillion fund cut

Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has assured Jakarta residents that key social programmes will continue despite the central government’s plan to slash transfer funds by IDR 15 trillion. He said initiatives such as the Jakarta Pinter Card (KJP), the Jakarta Superior Student Card (KJMU) and diploma legalisation support would be protected. “Programs related to the interests of the people [will] not [be] disturbed,” Pramono said on Friday. The governor added that Jakarta must be ready to innovate in financing if revenue-sharing funds (DBH) are reduced. The Jakarta DPRD projects that central transfers will fall to IDR 11 trillion in 2026, a shift that could significantly alter the city’s IDR 95.35 trillion draft budget.

Radioactive drums evacuated, workers get treatment

The government evacuated radioactive waste containing Caesium-137 (Cs-137) from the Cikande Industrial Estate in Serang, Banten. A task force removed 20 drums and other contaminated materials for safe storage, under supervision from the Nuclear Energy Supervisory Agency (Bapeten). Police secured the site to prevent the spread. Health checks were done on 1,562 workers within five kilometres, with exposed individuals given blue Prussian medicine to help remove Cs-137. Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq said the cleanup will continue until the area is declared safe, stressing public safety and transparency.

The new fee, officially called the Integrity Visa Payment, is intended as a guarantee that travellers will return to their home country, according to U.S. officials. 

“They call it Integrity Visa, which is a payment that has to be made as a kind of guarantee that you are going to return to your country,” explained Roberto Ortigoza, an immigration attorney at Anderson Immigration Law Group. He further told Viory, “What is the misuse [the U.S. is targeting]? People staying beyond their allowed time or working without authorisation. This is a measure to stop that from happening.”

However, Ortigoza warned that the combined cost, now $435 total ($185 for the regular B1/B2 visa plus $250 for the new fee), will inevitably reduce the number of people able to afford travel to the U.S. 

“It is high, and yes, it will affect many. But the need is a priority, people will look for ways and means to obtain this resource and process the visa,” he said.

Meanwhile, the U.S. embassy in Mexico has not commented on whether the fee could be refunded if travellers comply with their visa terms.

Ethiopia is moving closer to joining the World Trade Organisation (WTO) after the successful conclusion of the 6th Working Party meeting on its accession process, Trade and Regional Integration Minister Kassahun Gofe announced. The minister described the outcome as a historic milestone, noting that it marks a decisive step in Ethiopia’s 23-year effort to secure WTO membership. The meeting approved elements to be compiled into a draft working party report, a critical requirement for accession.

Ethiopia and Italy sign €4.1m deal to boost healthcare

Ethiopia and Italy have signed a €4.1 million agreement to strengthen healthcare services at Shire Hospital in Tigray and Gondar Hospital in Amhara. The deal was signed by Ethiopia’s Finance Minister Ahmed Shide and Italian Ambassador Agostino Palese. Ahmed said the project will help restore essential healthcare for over 15 million people, reaffirming the two countries’ longstanding partnership in resilience, recovery, and development.

Ethiopia hit by hailstorms and floods destroying farmland

Severe weather has devastated parts of Ethiopia, with hailstorms in Tigray and floods and landslides in Amhara destroying thousands of hectares of farmland and leaving tens of thousands of farming households in distress. In Degua Tembien Woreda, Southeast Tigray Zone, a hailstorm on 26 September damaged 143 hectares of cultivated land, completely wiping out crops and affecting 284 households. Local officials said the disaster poses serious risks to food security and livestock survival. Gebrekiristos Aregawi, Chief Administrator of Degua Tembien Woreda, pledged limited local support while appealing for broader government and NGO assistance.

Ethiopia’s army defends Red Sea and Assab claim

The Ethiopian National Defence Forces (ENDF) declared that Ethiopia’s claim over the Red Sea and the Port of Assab is non-negotiable, dismissing any opposition as “banditry.” In a statement issued on 27 September, the ENDF described the matter as a long-standing national grievance that has undermined Ethiopia’s sovereignty and geopolitical interests for more than three decades. The army said that the international elevation of the Red Sea question has been met with strong support among Ethiopian soldiers, who expressed readiness to make sacrifices to secure the country’s national interest.

Ethiopia imposes 30% tax on petroleum products

Ethiopia’s Ministry of Finance has announced the full implementation of a 30% tax on petroleum products for the 2025/26 fiscal year, comprising a 15% value-added tax and a 15% excise duty. The measure, included in the newly approved citizens’ budget, is part of the government’s Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda aimed at boosting domestic revenue. The tax follows the phased removal of fuel subsidies since mid-2022, which has already raised diesel and gasoline prices by more than 50%.

Could Botswana abandon death penalty to tackle gender-based violence?

President Duma Boko has called for a review of capital punishment’s role in addressing violent crime, especially gender-based violence (GBV), as such crimes continue to rise in Botswana despite decades of its enforcement. Read more here .

Massacre in Benue, relief in reforms: Can new tax laws ease Nigeria's security crisis?

Over 100 people were killed in a June 13, 2025 attack in Yelewata, Benue State, amid ongoing land conflicts between Fulani herdsmen and farmers, Amnesty International reports. With over 1,000 deaths since May 2023, violence persists. Meanwhile, President Tinubu's new tax reforms aim to ease the burden on low-income Nigerians by boosting disposable income. Read more here .

U.S. visa cuts on Africa—Is it really about reciprocity?

The U.S. has imposed new visa restrictions on Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, and Cameroon, reducing student, tourist, and business visas to single-entry with three-month validity. The State Department cites its Global Reciprocity Realignment—but is reciprocity the real motive? Read more here .

Asia

Over 200 Chinese children poisoned after school used paint in food: summary

Over 200 kindergarten children in Tianshui, China, were hospitalized with lead poisoning after staff used industrial paint pigments to color food. Authorities say 233 of 251 children were affected. The school principal and others are in custody. Some food samples had lead levels over 2,000 times the legal limit. Read more here .

Key events in the Air India crash investigation

A preliminary report on last month’s Air India crash, which killed 260 people, reveals the engines were starved of fuel seconds after takeoff when fuel cutoff switches flipped to “off.” Read more here .

China, Malaysia agree on reciprocal visa-free entry for tourists and business travellers

China and Malaysia will launch a reciprocal visa-free travel deal on July 17, 2025, allowing stays of up to 30 days per visit and 90 days within 180 days. It applies to Chinese official and ordinary passport holders and Malaysian ordinary passport holders. Read more here .

Latin America

Adriano Baracho: Covering climate, communities, and change in Brazil

Adriano, a one-man journalist for TV10 in rural São Paulo, has spent a decade covering local stories solo. Originally from the Amazon’s Pará region, he also documents climate change, deforestation, and Indigenous struggles from remote areas often overlooked by the media. Read more here .

Why Colombia is celebrating its independence day in another country

Colombia will celebrate its Independence Day in the Czech Republic for the first time this July 2025, as part of efforts to deepen cultural ties abroad. Organised by the Colombian Embassy and ASOCOLCZ, the event will be held on Saturday, July 19, at Betlémské náměstí in the heart of Prague. Read more here .

Trump intensifies trade war with threat of 30% tariffs on EU, Mexico

President Donald Trump has threatened a 30% tariff on imports from Mexico and the EU starting August 1, after trade talks stalled. Announced via letters posted on Truth Social, the move escalates tensions with key U.S. partners. Both Mexico and the EU criticised the tariffs as unfair but vowed to keep negotiating. Read more here .

According to Punch Nigeria, over 1,043 people have died from violence between May 2023 and May 2025.

Global South World sought to understand the gravity of the impact and what steps have been taken so far to address these dastardly acts through an interaction with Nigerian journalist, Segun Adewole.

Just like many locals in the country, Segun believes that at least 200 people were killed from this treachery which received global attention.

According to the journalist, several measures like doubling the weapons of security personnel as well as dialogue on security are in place to tackle the insecurity menace in the country.

However, efforts at dialogue seem to be producing nothing as security forces appear overwhelmed by the consistent loss of lives in the line of duty.

“How can they go to Benue State and kill people? Killed 200 people and no police could come and do something about it. They went to Benue, killed 200 people. For 2 days, they operated, and the police could not go there. Yet we have the military, we have the army, the navy, the police, the NSCDC, and different security agencies. That shows that there's something wrong somewhere,” Segun said. 

This, Segun also attributes to a problem in the governing structure of the country.

“No matter who becomes president, if Trump should come into Nigeria, with the kind of structure we have right now, he won't be able to succeed because the structure is not created for success,” he added.

Away from the boiling insecurity, the ordinary Nigerian seems to be getting some respite from the new tax measures President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed into law.

In a statement , the president said “The tax reforms will protect low-income households and support workers by expanding their disposable income.”

During the discussion, Segun explained that workers or individuals earning less than a million naira ($653.41) are exempt from paying taxes.

“The tax reforms signed into law, they affect the ordinary citizen, the ordinary man on the streets, because right about now, I think there's a portion that says if you are earning less than a million naira you won't, you'll be exempted from tax. That is one good thing because how can I be earning something little and I'm, I'll still be required to pay tax? So, the payment of tax would be for those earning above 1 million naira and the majority of the populace are earning below 1 million naira, so they are exempted from tax,” he explained.

The new tax laws are: the Nigeria Tax Act , which simplifies taxation by merging rules and scrapping 50+ overlapping taxes; the Tax Administration Act , which standardises tax collection nationwide; the Nigeria Revenue Service Act , replacing FIRS with the independent NRS; and the Joint Revenue Board Act , which boosts coordination and creates a Tax Ombudsman and Appeal Tribunal.

Watch the discussion attached to this story.

Pinsai Suraswadi, who leads the Revenue Department, said influencers, e-commerce sellers, and product reviewers must report their income.

He warned that tax officers can check records going back five years. If people do not file their taxes, they will have to pay penalties. However, he added that mistakes in tax filings can be corrected.

Thailand has a booming online economy with about three million people selling products on platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok.

There are also about two million full-time influencers and content creators, with millions more doing it part-time. Many young people in this group make good money but fail to report their earnings and pay taxes.

A study by research groups, including Tellscore and FutureTales LAB, found that Thailand’s content creator industry adds at least 45 billion baht ($1.25 billion) to the economy each year. The number of creators rises to nine million when part-time workers and “micro-influencers” are included.

Authorities say they are not trying to stop anyone from making money online, they just want people to follow tax rules like everyone else.

Manuel Adorni, the presidential spokesperson, shared the news during a press conference, stating, "This will mean a budgetary savings of around 6.4 billion pesos a year (about $6.5 million)."

President Javier Milei, who assumed office in December 2023, has introduced a series of austerity measures to combat the country's economic challenges, including significant layoffs of state workers and drastic spending cuts.

These measures have sparked widespread unrest, with hundreds of thousands of Argentine students protesting against Milei’s budget cuts earlier this month. The administration's threats to veto a recently passed law in Congress that aimed to guarantee university funding have only intensified the backlash.

The impact of President Milei's austere policies is evident, as the poverty rate in Argentina has surged to nearly 53% in the first half of 2024. An increase from 41.7% at the end of 2023 when he took office and more than double the 26% reported seven years ago.

Akon's $6 billion futuristic African metropolis project in Senegal faces an ultimatum from the government to commence substantial construction work or risk losing the land allocated for the project. The site remains undeveloped after four years, and financial viability concerns have been raised. Akoin cryptocurrency, touted as the project's economic backbone, has also plummeted in value. Newsweek reports that local leaders and residents are now expressing scepticism, and the project manager is awaiting further instructions to proceed with construction. Akon is expected to visit Dakar soon to address concerns and reassure stakeholders of the project's viability.

Preparations for the Youth Olympics

Senegal is preparing to host the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar in 2026. Senegalese musician Youssou N'Dour performed at the Africa Station in Paris, showing the country's readiness for the event. The mayor of Île Saint-Denis is also working towards the Youth Olympics and has received requests to visit from other cities hosting future Olympics. According to RFI , N'Dour emphasised the importance of solidarity among African nations in supporting sports and culture and praised the diversity of French champions at the Paris Olympics. He also mentioned his fascination with fencing.

Senegal appoints new judges

Senegal's new leadership is preparing a "witch hunt," claimed the former ruling party, after several judges were replaced. The opposition party APR stated that President Bassirou Diomaye Faye's new government, which took office in April, is using the guise of accountability to settle scores, following recent arrests of opposition figures, reports Barron's .

Islamic veil controversy

In Senegal, Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has called for schools to allow girls to wear the Islamic veil, sparking controversy among Christians. The Catholic community has expressed indignation and urged schools to update their regulations to prevent conflicts over the issue. This is a recurring debate, with a recent example in 2019. As reported by La Croix International , despite the controversy, Catholic schools in Senegal are highly sought after and attended by political leaders.

Senegalese taxman surpasses expectations

Senegal’s tax authority, DGID, exceeded expectations by collecting 1,309 billion CFA francs (USD2.2 million) in the first half of 2024. This reflects the resilience of the Senegalese economy. According to APA News , the goal for the year is 2,700 billion CFA francs (USD4.5 million), with a focus on property tax. The director is optimistic about meeting and surpassing future targets.

The country's tax authorities say that this decline is affecting alcohol tax revenue projections. In response, the government has organised elaborate events to encourage Gen Z to consume more alcoholic beverages.

These efforts are critical for tax revenue and the survival of companies producing these beverages. To counteract the largest liquor tax revenue decrease in thirty-one years, the National Tax Agency (NTA) launched a contest in July 2022, inviting people aged 20 to 39 (20 is the legal drinking age in Japan) to develop business plans to increase alcohol demand among young people. The NTA cited the COVID-19 pandemic, an ageing population, and lower fertility rates as reasons for lower alcohol sales.

However, not everyone supports this state-sponsored campaign. Japanese economist Hidetomi Tanaka called it an "irresponsible and unorthodox drinking campaign" in The New York Times, and many Twitter users criticised the launch.

Why are young Japanese staying away from alcohol?

Not long ago, alcoholism was a problem in Japan. Research from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) revealed that, in 2020 , 73% of Japanese men aged 15 to 39 consumed harmful amounts of alcohol, compared to 39% globally. For women, 62% in Japan consumed harmful amounts, versus just 13% globally.

Now, a new generation is choosing sobriety. Studies from the UK, the US, and Australia indicate that Gen Z is more sober than previous generations. Post-COVID-19, young people in Japan have resisted the pressures of the country’s prevalent business drinking culture. Attitudes have shifted towards drinks with lower alcohol content, with an increase in sales of alcohol-free beer, according to beer industry executives, and the opening of the country's first non-alcoholic bar.

According to Energy Minister Stuart Young, the Trinidad and Tobago government's payment of US$1 million in taxes to Venezuela for the Dragon gas field is not unusual. According to Trinidad and Tobago News Day , he defended the payment as part of the exploration and production license and stressed that the deal has the potential to bring billions of US dollars in revenue to Trinidad and Tobago. Opposition Senator Anil Roberts questioned the decision, but Young defended it and criticized the previous government's handling of the Lifesport program. Senator Roberts was instructed to move on to the next question during the exchange.

Venezuela to join BRICS

Russia supports Venezuela's desire to join the BRICS group, which represents 37% of the world's GDP. The decision about new members is made jointly by the group. Venezuela, Colombia, and Bolivia have expressed interest in joining. As reported by Telesur , the BRICS group currently includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, and Iran. The group's GDP will represent 37% of the world's GDP and 46% of the world's population. Argentina was also invited to join but did not due to a change in government.

Medical aid

Iran has announced that it will assist Venezuela in deploying medical accelerators following a request from the Venezuelan government. Discussions have taken place to advance specialised and technical cooperation, including the export of vaccines and other pharmaceutical products, and improving educational systems. According to the Tehran Times , the Pasteur Institute of Iran and the Venezuelan Scientific Research Institute have signed a Memorandum of Understanding expressing their desire for a sustainable scientific partnership.

Cryptocurrency mining farms' disconnection

Venezuela's Ministry of Electric Power is disconnecting cryptocurrency mining farms from the national power grid to control high energy demand and ensure reliable service for citizens. This follows the seizure of 2,000 mining machines and arrests of officials as part of an anti-corruption campaign. The country has faced an ongoing electricity crisis, worsened by frequent power outages. Finbold reports that experts blame poor maintenance, while the government blames sabotage. The government is also promising to modernise the state-controlled power network. Bitcoin and cryptocurrency mining are known for high energy consumption, and countries like China and Kazakhstan have banned the activity to preserve their power grids.

Opposition leader preaches peace

Venezuelan opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez promises political freedom if he wins the July election. He urges the military to uphold the Constitution. Support for the opposition is growing, with 50% of voters backing Gonzalez. If the opposition fails, supporters plan to leave the country in search of a better future, Market Screener reports.

However, the Ruto government's proposed tax adjustments including plans to eliminate VAT exemptions on essential items like bread, imposing higher taxes on mobile money transfers, and introducing an annual tax based on the value of motor vehicles have sparked debate across local media platforms and online forums, curating negative reviews for the president.

Addressing a group of Harvard Business School students at the state house, President Ruto reiterated his administration's commitment to bolstering tax revenues, despite the potential burden it may place on Kenyan citizens. He outlined ambitious targets, aiming to elevate tax revenues as a percentage of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from the current 14% to 22%. 

“My drive is to push Kenya, possibly to 16 per cent this year. I want to leave it at 20 and 22 per cent over my term. It is going to be difficult, I have a lot of explaining to do, people will complain but I know that they will appreciate it,” he is quoted as saying.

  Dismissing assertions of over-taxation, Ruto challenged prevailing perceptions by citing empirical data. "Kenyans have been socialised to believe that they pay the highest taxes. Empirical data shows that Kenya, as of last year, had a fourteen percent tax as a percentage of revenue. Our peers on the continent average between twenty-two and twenty-five percent,” he said.

The first African leader to be hosted at the White House was Ghana’s former president John Agyekum Kufour in 2008 under the George Bush administration. 

Mauritania is preparing to offer major tax breaks to green hydrogen developers as part of its upcoming hydrogen law. Hydrogeninsight reports that the law will include nine tax exemptions or reductions for developers and grant operating licenses for 35 years. The Northwest African nation aims to become a major exporter of renewable hydrogen to Europe and is committed to playing a leading role in the global green hydrogen economy.

Cancellation of increased tax on Moroccan imports

Mauritania has cancelled a tax increase on Moroccan agricultural imports, providing relief to the sector and consumers. The decision is estimated to save 23,000 dirhams ($6,262) per truck and prevent a 60% decrease in exports to Mauritania. According to Yabiladi , the cancellation comes after warnings about its impact on purchasing power. In February, Nani Ould Chrougha, the Minister of Oil, Mines, and Government Spokesperson, confidently declared, "Mauritania won't require vegetable imports throughout the month of Ramadan," emphasising trust in local production to satisfy domestic needs.

Divorce market

Mauritania has a high divorce rate and it is surprisingly celebrated. Additionally, women have a higher chance of finding new love than single women. This is because men in this country strangely prefer marrying divorcees, as they believe women become more beautiful and experienced after separation. To remain active and appear unfazed by a divorce, Tuko highlights that divorced women in Mauritania sell their ex-husbands' items at a market to start afresh and find new love. They do this at 'The Divorce Market' where divorcees meet to sell their previous marriage items and start new businesses.

First Islamist candidate in 15 years

On Thursday, May 2, the Islamist opposition party of Mauritania announced its participation in the upcoming presidential election slated for June 29, marking the first time in 15 years it has nominated a candidate for the position, AFP reports. Hamadi Ould Sid' El Moctar will be the National Rally for Reform and Development candidate, also known as Tewassoul. Since its legalization in 2007, Tewassoul has emerged as the primary opposition party in the Mauritanian parliament, boasting 11 out of 176 MPs. Notably, Tewassoul abstained from the 2014 presidential election and backed an external candidate in 2019.

Saudi Arabia and Mauritania sign MOU on renewable energy

Saudi Arabia and Mauritania have agreed to collaborate on renewable energy and clean hydrogen initiatives. SolarQuarter explains that the agreement aims to share knowledge and identify collaboration opportunities in solar, wind, and geothermal energy. It also seeks to improve energy efficiency and explore opportunities for joint project development. A report by the International Energy Agency suggests that Mauritania has ample wind and solar resources that could contribute to achieving universal electricity access and sustainable economic growth. The report also explores the potential benefits of expanding the nation’s renewable energy capabilities.

Women legislators in Uganda are demanding that Parliament set up a salon for their beauty needs. State Minister Beatrice Anywar expressed the need for a salon to boost female participation in parliamentary activities. According to Nile Post , this demand follows previous requests for a gym and a flyover to Parliament. "Gyms are associated with vigorous exercise routines that disorganise the hair. One of them is myself; my hair and nails and whatever are part of the woman What I am saying is that we ladies can come early, spend more time in the salon and then the house," Anywar said. Over the past couple of years, the Ugandan Parliament has consistently grabbed attention with a series of peculiar requests such as a proposed flyover stemming from the need for safe passage into the Parliament Building.

Traders protest tax system

Traders in Masaka, Uganda are protesting the implementation of the Uganda Revenue Authority's (URA) Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing Solution (EFRIS), leading to shop closures in the city. They are opposed to EFRIS, which tracks payment of Value Added Tax and are demanding that the government address their concerns. URA officials maintain that EFRIS has brought transparency to the tax system and expanded the tax base, and have no plans to halt its implementation, Monitor reports. The traders have vowed to keep with protests until the government meets their demands. However, the Presidential Press Unit released a communique to debunk a purported scheduled meeting between President Yoweri Museveni and the traders on April 12.

Stadium renovation concerns

The Speaker of Uganda's Parliament, Anita Among, has directed the Minister of State for Education and Sports, Peter Ogwang to present a detailed status report on the renovation of the Namboole Stadium named after former South African President Nelson Mandela, located in Uganda's capital Kampala to the House. According to the Monitor , this directive from the speaker comes after an opposition MP expressed disappointment over the quality of the renovation and the failure of the minister in charge to meet deadlines. The opposing MP, John Baptiste's concerns about the stadium come on the back of a CAF report which declares the ongoing renovation of the Namboole Stadium subpar compared to a stadium that can host an African Cup of Nations. Uganda is gearing up to host AFCON 2027.

Employment surge in oil and gas sector

Uganda's oil and gas sector has seen a surge in job opportunities, with over 13,000 jobs created. The country's national content laws ensure a high level of Ugandan participation in the sector. Investments in training and infrastructure are also being made, with the sector expected to have a positive impact on the overall economy. A report by Pulse Uganda explains that for a company to thrive in Uganda, 70 per cent of the workforce must be citizens of the country. This is believed to have been the catalyst for the surge in Oil and Gas employment.

Call to protect kids online

The Church of Uganda has launched the "Safe Screens, Safe Kids" campaign to address concerns about children being exposed to inappropriate digital content. With children spending 6 to 7 hours a day on digital media, the campaign aims to balance learning and entertainment with potential risks. According to the Living Church , the campaign has received support from church leaders, social experts, and the Ugandan Communications Commission. Digital access has grown significantly in Uganda, with concerns about children accessing harmful content online. The campaign seeks to educate parents and protect children from digital violence.

In a statement posted on X, the Ministry of Interior indicated that the levy would be put on hold for a period of "dialogue among stakeholders." This decision follows a meeting held on Friday in Abuja to discuss the implications and concerns raised by the business community.

“We understand the concerns raised by the stakeholders, and we are committed to finding solutions that promote investment while safeguarding the interests of Nigerians,” the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, is quoted.

The Ministry justified the tax as a measure to "discourage abuse of the expatriate quota system and promote the development of the local workforce… to create employment opportunities for Nigerians while closing wage gaps between expatriates and local workers."

The national president of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dele Kelvin Oye, welcomed the temporary suspension, commending the government for acknowledging the potential impact on Nigeria's business community. In a statement, Oye stated, "This is indicative of their commitment to creating an inviting atmosphere for both local and international investors," the BBC quoted.

This falls in line with President William Ruto’s plans to make Kenya a drug-making hub within Africa.

The provisions in the Act will facilitate the work of foreign drug-making companies in the country including the US-based Moderna Inc. a biotechnology company that develops vaccines.

Moderna which has commenced processes to establish a Messenger RNA (MRNA) manufacturing facility in Kenya is expected to produce about 500 million doses of vaccines in Kenya every year, according to The Nation .

The mRNA is a molecule that contains instructions or recipes that directs the cells to make a protein using its natural machinery, a biotechnology that influenced the production of the Covid-19 vaccine.

Kenya has indicated its focus on the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) programme that enables economic growth under which Morderna will operate.

Kenya has been a major exporter of pharmaceuticals in the region, making approximately 92.9 billion shillings (US$569 million), 53.8% higher than 60.4 (US $370 million) billion shillings in 2016, according to official statistics, The Nation reported.

The majority of Kenya’s medicines are exported to Tanzania, followed by Uganda, Somalia, Rwanda, Ethiopia, and Zambia.

The tension between the two organs heightened in November 2023, when the Ruto-led administration suffered a major setback in the implementation of an affordable housing tax and universal healthcare initiatives. The court had ruled that the decision aimed at raising taxes to fund the construction of affordable homes was not only unconstitutional but also discriminatory.

In separate rulings, the court temporarily halted the deduction of a 1.5% housing levy from workers' gross monthly salaries and another deduction of 2.57 percent towards social healthcare insurance, The East African reported.

In a response, Ruto indicated his discontent with the court ruling, noting, “It is not possible that we respect the judiciary while a few individuals who are beneficiaries of corruption are using corrupt judicial officials to block our development projects.”

“We are a democracy. We respect, and we will protect, the independence of the judiciary. What we will not allow is judicial tyranny and judicial impunity,” Ruto said on January 16.

Despite being a notable beneficiary of the country's justice system when the Supreme Court upheld his contested victory in the 2022 presidential election, President William Ruto pledged to uphold the rule of law and respect the independence of the judiciary during his inauguration. However, recent clashes between Ruto and the judiciary have strained this commitment.

Meanwhile, the court hearing for the housing tax case is set to resume next week, while the petition challenging the healthcare tax is scheduled to return to court in February.

The concluding stage of the Finance Act 2023 measures is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2024. President William Ruto endorsed the Act on June 26, and it was officially gazetted on June 27, 2023, the Star reports. While the majority of the tax measures came into play on July 1, including the controversial h ousing levy, a few others were enforced on September 1, with the remainder slated for implementation on January 1, 2024. Notably, medical post-retirement relief is among the measures offering tax relief for post-retirement medical fund expenses. “A resident individual who proves that in a year of income, a person has contributed to a post-retirement medical fund shall, for that year of income, be entitled to a personal relief in this Act referred to as post-retirement medical fund relief,” the amendment states.

Weak Kenyan shilling

Traders importing goods from Kenya's market find solace in the weakening shilling as Kenyans continue to grapple with high unemployment, a soaring cost of living, and economic challenges. The Kenyan shilling's 16.7% depreciation against the Uganda shilling since June 2023 has provided favourable conditions for traders, The East African has reported. Driven by the U.S. dollar's strength, this shift has resulted in financial gains, lower tax expenses, and discounted product prices for traders. Despite economic difficulties, traders are advised to save these gains for future uncertainties.

Countdown to New Year

As millions of Kenyans prepare to welcome 2024, various parts of the country are set to be illuminated by fireworks. Entertainment spots, parks, and churches have organised diverse activities to mark the occasion, according to local media KBC . Increased security measures are in place, with Mombasa Deputy Commissioner Ronald Mwiwai urging residents to extend kindness to visitors and less privileged members of society. Events like the Mombasa International Festival (MIfest) promise entertainment, coastal cuisines, and a celebration of cultural heritage.

Sanitation Bill targets improved standards

The Environmental Health and Sanitation Bill, 2023, proposed by Mukurweini Member of Parliament John Kaguchia, aims to ensure Kenyans enjoy a clean and healthy environment. The bill makes it an offence to urinate or defecate in the open, with penalties for individuals allowing waste to flow into public spaces, Nation reports. “A person who contravenes the sub-sections shall be guilty of a crime and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not less than Sh5,000 ($31) or imprisonment for a term of three months or both,” reads the bill. The legislation emphasizes the establishment of interventions by county governments to eliminate open defecation.

Raila Odinga plans New Year protest

Opposition leader Raila Odinga signals intentions to mobilize Kenyans for protests against perceived government excesses, including high taxation, withheld education funds, and corruption. In his New Year message, Odinga expresses regret over the challenges faced by Kenyans and calls for unity to reclaim the nation, the Nation reports. He emphasizes the need to liberate citizens from what he terms oppression and exploitation by the state.

The new reduction policy will apply primarily to hybrid vehicles and twin cab pick-up trucks , the report added.

Senior Trade Officer  Angelique Adeline explained that “for those over 2000cc but not more that 2500cc, they will see their excise tax reduced from 100 percent to 75 percent, with their environmental levy going down to R75,000 ($5,695) from R175,000 ($13,290)". 

"This means that other hybrid vehicles that have a battery capacity lower than 200v, will see their excise tax and levy maintained…  With these changes on twin cabs, we now expect such a vehicle that was being sold for SCR1.3 million ($99,145), will now be available for as little as SCR860,000 ($65,588),” she was quoted by Seychelles News Agency.

The Department of Trade indicates that the initiative is aimed at encouraging an environment ally friendly transport system. Thus, hybrid vehicles with a battery capacity of 200 V or more are to be classified as full hybrid, where the excise tax and environment levy will be reduced.

The excise tax that is currently 50 percent to 100 percent based on the engine capacity of the truck, will now be reduced to 40 percent across all engine capacities, with the environmental levy, which was between SCR70,000 ($5,338) to SCR175,000 ($13,290), will also now be fixed at SCR40,000 ($3,050), regardless of engine capacity. 

Beginning with the November 2023 tax period, the new Pay As You Earn (PAYE) tax bands will be applied for a second year. This is consistent with implementing the October 2022 statute establishing income taxes, particularly concerning a section of Article 56, the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) announced on October 25.

In October 2022, local media The New Times claimed to have secured information from the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning (MINECOFIN) which showed that in the second year since the law had been enforced, the tax cut for workers who earn between Rwf60,000 ($49) and Rwf200,000 ($162) was estimated to benefit at least 20% of total formal workers who were estimated at over 541,000 in Rwanda as of June 2022.

The government would give up more than Rwf43 billion ($34.7 million) over two years to carry out the tax change, according to MINECOFIN.

The high tax rates now in place, which range from 20% to 30% for monthly incomes between Rwf60,000 ($49) and Rwf100,000 ($81) and between Rwf100,000 ($81) and Rwf200,000 ($162), were making it difficult for low-income earners to meet their basic needs, primary school teacher Angelique Uwubuntu, told local media The New Times.

“The tax cut decision is laudable since it will reduce my financial obligation as a worker while increasing to some extent my ability towards meeting my basic needs,” she added.