The social media conundrum
Twitter, WhatsApp, Instagram and other social media technologies are hugely popular. But there is a dark side: misinformation and hate speech can affect societies in very negative ways. African governments are part of the global push to regulate social media – but how far should they go? Digital communication is in the crosshairs of the […]
Technology, Media and Telecommunications Update in Africa – July 2020
This e-bulletin highlights key legislative and regulatory developments in the technology, media and telecommunications sectors in sub-Saharan Africa. This issue covers the period 16 April 2020 to 15 July 2020 includes developments Botswana, Ethiopia, Eswatini, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe. Botswana Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority intervention towards COVID‑19 […]
Ethiopia’s Arbitration law challenges
Tewodros Meheret, a senior lawyer at LEX Africa Ethiopian member, GETS Law Offices, and out-going president of the Ethiopian Bar Association, made an opening address at the East African International Arbitration Conference (EAIAC) in Addis Ababa recently. Arbitration is perceived as one of the alternative solutions to congestion in the court system and consequent delays […]
The new wave of Privatization in Ethiopia: A legal perspective…
Introduction Privatization can be an outcome of economic policy adopted by a government based on its ideological inclination or as a way out of economic challenges it has faced. It may entirely hinge on domestic considerations or could be prompted by external pressure as witnessed in connection with economic restructuring programs prescribed by the International […]
Trade in Africa: Recent developments, opportunities, incentives and challenges
Recession, lack policy reform and administrative hurdles often affect the climate of trade, investment and business in Africa. At LEX Africa’s most recent seminar, members discussed the challenges and changes seen in 2018. Osayaba Giwa-Osagie, senior partner at Giwa-Osagie & Co — a LEX Africa member in Nigeria — chaired an in-depth panel discussion on […]
Ethiopia’s industrial revolution sparks hope for its economic reformation
Despite having the second largest population in Africa, Ethiopia’s game plan to uplift its economy seems to be paying dividends. In the first quarter of 2017, Ethiopian authorities unveiled the Hawasa Industrial Park – the biggest in Africa, standing at 140 hectares and containing mostly textile factories. The project was complete in record time — […]
Ethiopia secures USD 280 million to improve local business sector
The World Bank and European Investment Bank have backed a lending and leasing programme aimed at assisting small business in Ethiopia. The World Bank and European Investment Bank (EIB) have backed a USD 280 million lending and leasing programme, which is aimed at assisting small business in Ethiopia. In a statement, EIB said the investment […]
Ethiopia cements its economic reform through the construction industry
From being heavily dependent on importing cement, to producing its own stock, Ethiopia is reeling in foreign investment and opening up new channels for job creation. It’s a light at the end of a very dark tunnel for Ethiopia, a country that knows the taste of being in a state of emergency. In 2013, the […]
