IMF Fuel Shock Watch (Kenya): The IMF warns Kenya and other oil-importing African economies could face renewed inflation pressure as Middle East conflict lifts global oil prices, just ahead of Kenya’s EPRA monthly fuel review on July 14. Construction Cost Pressure (Tanzania): Cement makers in Tanzania have announced price hikes of about Sh500–Sh650 per 50kg bag, with retail prices expected to push above Sh18,000 in key markets like Dar es Salaam. Protest Risk to Business (Kenya): Ahead of the Saba Saba anniversary, fears of disruption are again in focus, with employers estimating Kenya loses Sh40–Sh50bn each time protests paralyse economic activity. Municipal Cash Crunch (South Africa): A report by Ratings Afrika flags widening operating deficits and liquidity shortfalls across major municipalities, while Treasury withholds equitable share transfers under Section 216(2). Anti-Fake Drugs Crackdown (Nigeria): Nigeria’s Senate advances tougher penalties for counterfeit medical products and fake drugs, including up to 15 years in jail and asset forfeiture. Banking Growth (Ethiopia): Hijra Bank credits the National Bank of Ethiopia’s removal of a lending cap for 100%–200% growth in key performance areas. Retail & Consumer Tech (Ethiopia): Gadaa Bank launches a one-million-share public offering at 1,050 birr per unit, aimed at expanding digital banking infrastructure. Eskom Relief (South Africa): Eskom says it has freed 1.1m customers from load reduction schedules, with five provinces now load-reduction-free. Creator Economy (Africa): At Cannes Lions, Woof Studios Africa founder Adetutu Laditan argues African creators need stronger systems for ownership and monetisation, not just visibility.