Gluten-free shift in African bakeries: Rising demand for gluten-free foods is pushing Nairobi and beyond to turn cassava, millet, sorghum and teff into premium breads and pastries, opening new angles for local food makers and exporters. Two-pot retirement withdrawals: In South Africa, early “two-pot” access is increasingly being used for basic living—food, rent, electricity and school fees—highlighting household pressure even as the policy meets its design goals. Illegal fishing study: A new report says wealthy-country demand is fuelling illegal fishing, with most catches tied to poor countries—an issue that matters for seafood supply and consumer prices. Woolworths spencer backlash (SA): A viral complaint claims Woolworths changed spencer fabric from 100% cotton to polyester/viscose, sparking anger over comfort and value. South Africa health cover confusion: As medical aid costs rise, more consumers are choosing health insurance, but experts warn it often won’t match medical aid hospitalisation and chronic cover. Nigeria fuel price relief: Nigeria’s petrol prices are falling as depot rates drop and major marketers cut pump prices, led by Dangote-linked supply competition. Kenya EAC integration push: Kenyan firms want faster East African integration, calling out non-tariff barriers and border delays that raise logistics costs. DRC satellite-to-phone launch: Airtel and Starlink have started Africa’s first commercial satellite-to-phone service in the DRC, expanding access where mobile coverage is weak. South Africa OTC derivatives rules: Regulators plan to finalise central clearing rules for OTC derivatives by 2028, aiming for more transparency and lower risk. Kenya lenders go AI: Kenyan credit players are using AI and alternative data to widen access for SMEs that lack traditional collateral. Nigeria-China trade boost: Nigeria’s aquatic products get zero-tariff access to China, with bilateral trade hitting $18bn in H1 2026—urging exporters to move fast. South Africa smoking/vaping law debate: Proposed stricter rules are sparking public pushback, with consumers worried about bans, plain packaging and display limits. Rwanda growth framework: Rwanda’s “3x Rwanda” push is framed as needing higher-quality, more productive growth while addressing structural vulnerabilities like persistent trade deficits.