From Lagos to Nairobi

When Access Bank Plc stepped in to acquire National Bank of Kenya, most observers expected a slow, messy integration—a typical post-acquisition shuffle. But what unfolded was something quieter, and arguably more powerful. NBK’s first full year under Access Bank didn’t see aggressive lending or flashy expansion. Revenues ticked up modestly. Loans actually shrank. But behind…

When Starlink expands into a new market, the assumption is usually straightforward: fast, global internet access lands, users celebrate, and regulators scramble to catch up. But in Africa, the rollout is proving anything but simple. Several countries are pausing approvals, flagging concerns over licensing, spectrum allocation, and operational oversight. Starlink’s direct-to-satellite model, while revolutionary, bypasses…

When Ayoba launched, it promised a uniquely African alternative to global messaging apps—a place for communities, content, and local creativity. Backed by MTN Group, it seemed poised for scale. But now, MTN is shutting it down, and the news hits harder than most expected. This isn’t just the end of an app. It’s a reminder…

When Showmax launched, it promised a homegrown alternative to global streaming giants—a space for African stories, local content, and pan-African audiences. Backed by MultiChoice, it felt like a platform built to stay. But now, the service has announced its final shutdown date, and the news lands with both inevitability and a twinge of nostalgia. This…

In Africa’s fast-moving tech ecosystem, the story behind an idea can be just as compelling as the product itself. A recent Twitter argument over the “true origin” of Chowdeck—a rising food delivery platform—illustrates this perfectly. One user claimed they conceived the concept years before Chowdeck officially launched in 2021, sparking debate about authorship, credit, and…

Big news for Nigerian mobile banking users: starting July 26, 2026, your bank or fintech app will only work on one device. Yes, that phone you love? It’s basically your bank key now. Lose it, or get a new one? Your app will still work, but your transaction limit drops to ₦20,000 for 24 hours…