Rwanda AI push: Rwanda will launch the Rwanda Institute of Computing under the University of Rwanda, offering advanced degrees in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity from September 2026, building on the Rwanda Coding Academy. Mining & critical minerals: Rwanda approved a strategic partnership with Kazakhstan’s Tau-Ken Samruk to form a joint venture for mineral exploration and mining across Rwanda, aiming to deepen Kigali’s role in the global critical minerals supply chain. Digital finance trust: Bridgforte will host a July 28 virtual launch of its policy report on building and sustaining trust in platform-led digital finance, with South African Reserve Bank Deputy Governor Nomfundo Tshazibana delivering the keynote. EAC reserves strategy: EAC central banks urged more domestic gold purchases to diversify reserves amid oil and shipping risks, as they coordinate regional policy responses. Agri-food momentum: Rwanda Agricultural Show opened in Kigali to accelerate agri-food systems transformation, with calls for innovation, modern farming and agricultural insurance. Community services expansion: First Lady Jeannette Kagame launched the first Imbuto Hub in Bugesera and opened a second in Kigali, with plans for 30 hubs nationwide combining education, childcare, health, digital learning and vocational training. Regional business ties: Nigeria reaffirmed commitment to strengthen trade, investment and private-sector participation with Rwanda, aiming to turn political relations into tangible economic outcomes. Tech market signals: Nothing is reportedly considering pulling back from multiple international smartphone markets after OnePlus restructuring, raising questions about cost pressures and competition. Telecom valuation race: MTN added R100bn in market value in 2026 and is edging toward a R500bn valuation milestone, outpacing peers on growth from “rest of Africa” operations. Food security trend: Africa’s hunger improved for the first time in nearly a decade, with the share facing hunger falling slightly from 2024 to 2025, though affordability of nutritious diets remains the next challenge.