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SBM Bancassurance:Beyond Banking

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The Frontier Disconnect: Energy Events Industry Must Hire and Promote Africans

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A NEW LAYER OF PRIVACY FIVE YEARS IN THE MAKING

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Jambojet Awarded for Most Compelling Story at The Aviation Challenge in...

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Zaria Court Kigali is now officially open as part of Tapestry Collection by Hilton, marking a transformative milestone for Rwanda's first urban lifestyle hotel and reinforcing the nation's expanding presence in the global hospitality landscape. This new chapter brings together Zaria Court Kigali’s distinctive identity, rooted in authentic African excellence and vibrant local culture, with Hilton's world-class standards, global reach, and the Hilton Honors loyalty program. Tapestry Collection by Hilton is a global portfolio of independent hotels, each with an original, vibrant personality. Every hotel's unique story comes to life through elevated design and food and beverage inspired by the locale, offering guests authentic experiences across an array of destinations worth exploring. Located in the heart of Kigali Sports City, steps from the 10,000-seat BK Arena and the iconic 45,000-seat Amahoro Stadium, Zaria Court Kigali has redefined hospitality in one of East Africa's most dynamic capitals. Now part of Tapestry Collection by Hilton, the 80-room property enters an exciting new era, offering guests an elevated experience that blends the spirit of modern Africa with the consistency and service excellence of a globally recognized brand. A New Chapter for Zaria Court Kigali Guests at Zaria Court Kigali can enjoy the hotel’s bold contemporary design, Rwandan craftsmanship, and the comfort of Hilton’s trusted brand experience including Digital Key and direct booking perks. "This is a defining moment for Zaria Court Kigali," says Masai Ujiri, the Founder of Zaria Group whose vision of African excellence inspired the hotel's creation. "Just as the hotel's story began in Zaria, Nigeria, on basketball courts where dreams took flight, today marks another chapter in that journey. We're proving that African hospitality can lead on the world stage, maintaining our authentic identity while embracing global standards that allow us to serve our guests even better." Zaria Court Kigali, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is poised to welcome a broad international audience, from business travelers and sports teams to cultural innovators and leisure guests, while preserving the warm, community-driven atmosphere that defines the property. Guests can now earn and redeem Hilton Honors points while enjoying the hotel's signature lifestyle offerings - from the rooftop lounge with beautiful views of Kigali Sports City to the Sports Bar featuring 19 large screens and bold African-inspired cuisine. Elevating the Guest Experience As a Tapestry Collection by Hilton hotel, Zaria Court Kigali integrates Hilton’s service culture and operational excellence across every touchpoint – from personalized prearrival communications to thoughtful in room amenities designed for comfort and convenience. The hotel features unique spaces including a heated pool overlooking the multipurpose court, a sophisticated lobby bar, a globally inspired all-day dining restaurant, and a rooftop lounge – perfect for elevated evenings. Guy Hutchinson, President, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said, "We are excited to open our first hotel in Rwanda, Zaria Court Kigali, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, which will join Hilton’s growing portfolio in Africa as we plan to nearly triple our presence across the continent in the coming years. Tapestry Collection by Hilton celebrates independent hotels with distinct personalities and strong local connections, and Zaria Court Kigali embodies this perfectly; it's deeply rooted in Rwandan culture and the energy of Kigali Sports City, while offering the kind of contemporary, lifestyle-focused experience that today's travelers seek." A Destination, Not Just Accommodation Zaria Court Kigali's location within a mixed-use sports and entertainment development reinforces its role as a cultural and social hub. The property seamlessly integrates with retail spaces, event facilities, and recreational amenities including a community basketball court and five-a-side football pitch. Guests don't simply stay at Zaria Court Kigali; they step into the vibrant rhythm of Kigali's most dynamic district. The hotel's meeting and event spaces offer modern projection systems and theatre-style seating for up to 60 guests, with adjacent areas that can accommodate cocktail receptions for 120 people. Whether hosting corporate seminars, intimate gatherings, or celebrating after a concert or game, the spaces embody the property's philosophy: creating spaces where meaningful connections flourish. Every element of the property celebrates African innovation and community, be it the locally-crafted artwork adorning the walls or eco-friendly design principles that earned EDGE certification. The hotel features vibrant, locally-inspired interiors showcasing Rwandan craftsmanship and contemporary African art, creating an authentic cultural experience that celebrates the continent's creative spirit while meeting international standards of comfort and quality. Zaria Court Kigali, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, offers guests seeking authentic experiences and genuine connections, a memorable, locally-inspired stay. The hotel’s diverse venues create destinations within the destination: the Sports Bar offers an unmatched viewing experience with international football, rugby, F1, and basketball; MANSELA’s All-Day Dining restaurant serves energizing international breakfast buffets alongside vibrant fusion cuisine for lunch and dinner; ANUVO lobby bar provides an intimate spot for coffee breaks and casual meetings; SOLIA pool bar blends relaxation with entertainment, overlooking the multipurpose court where guests might catch a live game while swimming; and The JARO rooftop lounge delivers sophisticated ambiance with crafted cocktails and breathtaking panoramic views. Future plans include rotating art installations featuring local artisans, curated cultural programming, and expanded partnerships with Rwandan entrepreneurs through the hotel's retail concepts. The vision remains consistent: creating spaces that inspire the next generation of African leaders while offering world-class hospitality. Significance for Rwanda's Hospitality Landscape The partnership reflects growing international confidence in Rwanda as a premier destination for business, leisure, sports, and lifestyle travel. As one of Africa's safest countries as per the Global Peace Index 2024 and the first on the continent in Business Readiness according to World Bank’s B-READY 2025 Report, Rwanda has positioned itself at the forefront of the continent's transformation. Zaria Court Kigali’s integration into Hilton's globally respected portfolio strengthens Kigali's hospitality offering and supports the nation's broader tourism and investment narrative by reinforcing international traveler confidence. With 70% of Rwanda's population under 30 and the country experiencing unprecedented investment in sports and entertainment infrastructure, including over $260 million in public and private funding transforming Kigali Sports City, the timing couldn't be more significant. The hotel sits at the epicenter of Africa's emerging sports tourism boom, hosting international teams, artists, executives, and fans attending major events at adjacent world-class venues. Closing 2025 with Momentum Zaria Court Kigali now offers guests access to Hilton Honors – Hilton’s award-winning loyalty program with over 235 million members and a portfolio of 9,000+ hotels across 25 world-class brands – delivering a richer, more rewarding travel experience. For travelers seeking experiences that celebrate Africa's energy, creativity, and forward momentum, Zaria Court Kigali offers a gateway to contemporary Kigali. For Hilton Honors members exploring new destinations, the property presents an opportunity to discover Rwanda's remarkable hospitality through a distinctive, lifestyle-focused lens. And for Rwanda, this partnership reinforces the nation's position as a leader in African tourism and hospitality innovation. - ENDS - About Zaria Court Kigali, Tapestry Collection by Hilton Zaria Court Kigali is Kigali's first urban lifestyle hotel, located in the heart of Rwanda's Sports City and premier sports and entertainment district. The 80-room property features vibrant, locally-inspired interiors, multiple food and beverage outlets, meeting and event spaces, and a heated pool. Inspired by the vision of Masai Ujiri and rooted in authentic African excellence, the hotel celebrates the continent's creative spirit while delivering world-class hospitality. Now part of Tapestry Collection by Hilton, Zaria Court Kigali offers guests access to Hilton Honors benefits while maintaining its distinctive character and community-driven approach.
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Zaria Court Kigali Now Open as Part of Tapestry Collection by...

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Following the opening of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, TECNO extends its tournament presence into public spaces across Morocco through a series of TECNO AI pop-up stores and fan zones in Rabat and Casablanca. Designed to bring AI-powered innovation closer to consumers, these spaces allow visitors to experience how TECNO AI enhances everyday smartphone usage, from photography and gaming to productivity and entertainment. In total, the brand activated four experiential venues, two pop-up stores and two fan zones, with one of each established in both cities, creating a parallel rollout across Morocco’s major urban centers. The opening ceremony marked the starting point of TECNO’s AFCON “Power Your Moment” campaign, welcoming invited clients, guests, and partners as the tournament officially began. From the same day, the brand opened its physical spaces to the public, shifting from a symbolic brand moment to hands-on consumer engagement. This approach enables TECNO to stay connected with fans throughout different stages of the competition, offering repeated opportunities to discover TECNO AI features in real-life scenarios rather than limiting interaction to a single event. Special performances featuring live juggling ball demonstrations alongside African song and dance were presented on December 21 and are scheduled to return on January 18, creating a vibrant environment that blended technology, culture, and entertainment. TECNO AI Pop-Up Stores: An Immersive Fan-First Experience The TECNO AI pop-up stores, deployed in Casablanca and Rabat and located near Mohammed V Stadium and Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium respectively, are designed as immersive, consumer-centric environments rather than conventional retail spaces. Open for a limited period during the AFCON 2025 tournament, each location combines product discovery with interactive AI demonstrations, allowing visitors to test TECNO AI features directly across multiple touchpoints. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed in a reception area offering complimentary gifts and guided experiences, while simple interactive challenges encourage participation and social sharing. By connecting physical interaction with digital engagement, the pop-up stores translate advanced AI technology into clear, tangible benefits that consumers can immediately understand and enjoy. At the heart of the TECNO AI pop-up store, the AI Experience Area brings TECNO AI to life through practical, real-world applications showcased on large-format screens and interactive stations. Visitors can test TECNO AI features hands-on, discovering how AI enhances everyday moments such as photography, content creation, and daily productivity. By placing consumers directly in control of the experience, the activation positions TECNO AI not as a distant technology, but as an intuitive, accessible tool designed to make daily smartphone use smarter, easier, and more creative. A fashion-inspired clothing swap installation offers jerseys representing the 24 national teams competing in AFCON 2025, allowing fans to express tournament allegiances while engaging in a creative, participatory activity. Nearby, the Champions Road installation invites visitors to interact with a team matchup chart using magnetic team markers, encouraging predictions and photo sharing that extend the experience beyond the physical space. The Product Experience Area provides hands-on access to TECNO’s latest smartphone lineup and connected devices, supported by on-site brand representatives. A customization station allows visitors to personalize their phones with tournament-themed back stickers, creating tangible mementos linked to the AFCON experience. Photo areas throughout the pop-up stores offer opportunities to capture moments against branded backdrops, while a CSR Culture Wall highlights TECNO’s community initiatives and long-term engagement in youth development and grassroots football across Africa. TECNO Fan Zones: Bringing Fans Together Beyond the Stadium Alongside the TECNO AI pop-up stores, TECNO’s fan zones are established in Casablanca and Rabat, located at Anfa Park and OLM Souissi respectively, as open-access community spaces operating throughout match days. Freely accessible to the public, without purchase or registration requirements, the fan zones welcome football supporters and passersby alike, emphasizing shared experience over transaction. These spaces feature relaxed product discovery areas, free photo-taking and printing services, and interactive challenges designed to encourage participation. Skill-based football challenges, including juggling and heading activities, animate both the pop-up stores and fan zones, creating moments of spontaneous interaction and crowd engagement. Giveaway mechanics are tied to simple social media actions, while classification-style photo activities encourage visitors to capture and share moments online without competitive pressure, prioritizing participation and community visibility. By activating simultaneously in Rabat and Casablanca and maintaining a presence across match days with special programming on key dates, TECNO establishes a sustained physical footprint throughout the AFCON period. Rather than limiting its engagement to the opening ceremony, the brand positions its pop-up stores and fan zones as ongoing touchpoints within the rhythm of the tournament, embedding technology, football, and urban culture into everyday public life during AFCON 2025 in Morocco.
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TECNO Brings Immersive Fan Experience to Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)...

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Hilton (NYSE: HLT) today announced the Africa expansion of DoubleTree by Hilton, its upscale brand known for its warm hospitality, with the signing of three new properties in key destinations across North, West and Central Africa: Morocco, Togo and the Republic of Congo. These latest signings include Hilton’s debut in Togo and underscore Hilton’s commitment to growing its footprint on the continent, where the global hospitality company now has more than 100 hotels in its pipeline. Carlos Khneisser, chief development officer, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said: “Africa’s major business hubs, rich cultural heritage, and spectacular landscapes continue to present exciting opportunities for growth. We are delighted to expand our footprint with three new DoubleTree by Hilton properties, which will join Hilton’s growing portfolio in Africa as we plan to nearly triple our presence across the continent in the coming years. These signings reflect our commitment to supporting Africa’s hospitality sector – with dedicated local development teams on the ground and deep expertise in these markets, we are well positioned to create long-term value for our partners and deliver world-class stays to our guests.” DoubleTree by Hilton Lomé Airport, Togo Marking Hilton’s debut in Togo, DoubleTree by Hilton Lomé Airport is developed in partnership with SODEXH SA. Strategically located opposite Lomé International Airport, the hotel will be the country's first internationally branded airport property, offering upscale services and conference facilities to business travellers. The hotel will feature 165 guest rooms and suites, a signature restaurant, a lobby café, as well as an outdoor pool, spa and fitness centre. Flexible meeting spaces include a ballroom and three meeting rooms, designed to cater to business travellers and transit guests with easy access to the city’s commercial and cultural hubs. DoubleTree by Hilton Kintele, Republic of Congo Located in Brazzaville’s emerging Kintele district, this property will include 200 guest rooms and suites, a fitness centre, tennis court, spa, and beauty salon. Guests will enjoy multiple dining venues including a lobby bar and terrace, pool bar, and two specialty restaurants with panoramic views of the Congo River. The hotel will house West Africa’s largest conference centre, which spans 75,000 sqm with an auditorium for 1,500 guests, banquet halls, a VIP lounge, and museum hall – making the hotel a prime accommodation choice for major events and corporate gatherings. Signed with Société d’Exploitation et de Développement des Infrastructures du Congo (SEDIC), DoubleTree by Hilton Kintele will start welcoming guests in 2026, joining the recently opened Hilton Brazzaville Les Tours Jumelles Hotel & Residences. DoubleTree by Hilton Marrakech La Palmeraie, Morocco Set in Marrakech’s renowned Palmeraie district, this resort-style property will offer 228 guest rooms and suites, landscaped gardens, and multiple dining options including an all-day dining restaurant, lobby café, pool bar, and two specialty restaurants. Guests will enjoy a relaxing pool area and kids pool, gym, spa, and paddle court. The hotel will also feature a ballroom and meeting rooms, with close proximity to the city’s historic district and vibrant souks. The hotel is expected to open in 2028. This latest signing joins Hilton’s rapidly growing footprint in Morocco with 16 hotels in the pipeline, including the highly anticipated Waldorf Astoria Rabat Salé and Hampton by Hilton Ben Guerir – both opening soon. The properties will join DoubleTree by Hilton´s global portfolio of more than 700 hotels across 61 countries and territories, where the award-winning brand is renowned for delivering warm and contemporary hospitality to business and leisure travellers – complete with its signature DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie welcome. DoubleTree by Hilton’s momentum continues across Africa with several signings announced earlier this year, including DoubleTree by Hilton Cabinda Futila Residences in Angola, DoubleTree by Hilton Adama and DoubleTree by Hilton Dire Dawa in Ethiopia, and DoubleTree by Hilton Fes Golf in Morocco.
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Hilton Expands Full-Service Portfolio Across Africa with Three New DoubleTree by...

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Financial infrastructure firm, Tala, has launched a tokenized lending platform to cater to borrowers without a banking history in the world. It plans to deploy $50 million credit facility via the platform in USDC to power blockchain-enabled, permission-less lending for millions of global customers. The Artificial Intelligence (AI) underwritten consumer lending tool, in partnership with Huma Finance, is the first of its kind in Kenya and is powered by Solana and supported by USDC liquidity facilitated by the Huma Protocol For billions of consumers who lack access to traditional banking services and credit history systems, tokenized lending offers faster and more reliable access to credit, better rates through a global capital network, and a portable, digital reputation that enables broader participation in the global economy. Tala’s existing customer base of nearly 13 million across multiple emerging markets creates immediate scale for blockchain adoption. "After a decade operating across multiple emerging markets, we know how to translate frontier technologies into real-world financial power," said Shivani Siroya, founder and CEO, Tala. "By pairing Tala’s trusted platform with the power of blockchain technology, together with Huma and Solana, we can expand financial access, eliminate systemic inefficiencies, and help millions become active participants in the global digital economy.” The solution is powered by Tala’s proprietary credit engine, which has been trained on $7 billion in lending performance data across multiple continents. That dataset—largely invisible to banks and most AI systems—gives Tala the ability to evaluate borrowers who have historically been overlooked by the global financial system. By tokenizing these loans in an overcollateralized lending facility and connecting them to Huma’s liquidity pools, Tala unlocks a new funding mechanism for emerging market credit, bringing global capital directly to high-demand markets transparently and efficiently. Speaking during the launch, Erbil Karaman, Co-Founder of Huma Finance, said that Tala’s team has over a decade of experience in scaling high-performance lending programmes while providing financial access to tens of millions of people who need it the most.
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Tala launches crypto lending platform

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Kenya’s cloud and artificial intelligence boom may be entering its most consequential phase yet, as new data suggests local consultancies, AI startups and systems integrators stand to earn dramatically more from Amazon Web Services (AWS) than previously understood. A study by US-based research firm Omdia reveals that AWS partners worldwide can now generate “up to a $7.13 (Sh900) multiplier for every $1 (Sh130) of AWS sold,” a figure with enormous implications for East Africa’s technology ecosystem. The report, titled "Partner Ecosystem Multiplier: The AWS Opportunity 2025," was released on the sidelines of the AWS: Re-Invent event in Las Vegas, Nevada, which kicked off on December 1 and ends on December 5. It reached this conclusion after Omdia conducted in-depth interviews with 35 AWS partners across various geographies and partner types. The report’s central argument is blunt: in a region where businesses are hungry for automation, resilient infrastructure, and AI-powered customer engagement, the biggest revenue doesn’t come from selling cloud technology itself. Instead, it comes from the advisory, design, build, adoption, and managed services wrapped around it, the same areas where Kenyan firms have sought to differentiate themselves. “In the new era of AI, Omdia has forecasted a services opportunity tied to generative and agentic AI of $267 billion by 2030,” the research notes, positioning partners as the engines of this expansion. With Kenya’s financial institutions, telcos, and public agencies accelerating cloud migrations, the findings sharpen the conversation about who will capture the next decade of revenue. Kenyan companies already recognize the shift. For years, Kenya’s cloud market has revolved around foundational migrations: moving banks off aging data centres, helping enterprises modernize digital infrastructure, or building customer-facing platforms with elasticity and scale. But companies across Nairobi’s tech districts, from Westlands to Upper Hill to Ngong Road, are now repositioning their services for an AI-first world. The Omdia numbers help make the business case. The report states bluntly that 82 per cent of AWS partners are now delivering some form of AI as part of their transformation delivery, a seismic shift that mirrors Kenya’s adoption pattern: AI chatbots in banking, machine learning in fraud detection, recommender engines in e-commerce, and predictive analytics in agriculture and logistics. “Amazon Web Services (AWS) continues to be the market-leading provider of public cloud infrastructure in terms of market share. For customers to unlock the full opportunities of AI in their public cloud environments, they lean on a wide variety of services and expertise from their technology providers, specifically the partners within the AWS Partner Network.”
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Kenya’s cloud firms can multiply revenue by seven times via AI...

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KenGen approves higher dividend on 56% growth in net earnings

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