MR D.I.Y. is expanding to South Africa, opening its first store in Pretoria by June end, with plans for six stores in 2025. MR D.I.Y. expanding into South Africa introduces another competitor to the growing home improvement sector. Despite economic stagnation, local retailers like Builder’s Warehouse have seen growth. MR D.I.Y., with nearly 5,000 stores globally, will make South Africa its 14th market.

A&A Manappat Foods & Trading LLC partners with UAE-based Al Islami Foods to launch the “Al Islami” brand in Oman. Launched formally on the 18th of June 2025, this collaboration introduces premium halal products to the Omani market. A&A Manappat, part of the Manappat Group, is known for distributing quality food brands, while Al Islami Foods is renowned for its halal-certified frozen foods.

HGO, a subsidiary of China’s Goods Products Company Group Ltd, has launched in Uganda, introducing a seamless S2B2C model. Leveraging its global e-commerce experience, HGO targets Uganda’s growing middle class. The platform promises 20-minute deliveries via a motorbike network and app, ensuring efficient service. HGO also offers cross-border services to Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

CityBlue Hotels has launched Kilua Residences in Mombasa, Kenya, marking its second property in the city. This 4-star beachfront aparthotel offers luxury accommodations with 1 and 2-bedroom apartments. Guests enjoy amenities like a pool, spa, and gym. The opening increases CityBlue’s footprint in East Africa, complementing its existing Creekside Hotel & Suites.

Heineken has suspended operations and withdrawn staff from eastern DRC cities due to escalating conflict with the M23 rebel group. The Dutch brewer lost control of facilities in Bukavu and Goma, impacting a third of its business in the region. The security situation, worsened by accusations of Rwanda’s involvement, prompted the withdrawal. Heineken’s local unit, Bralima, continues operations elsewhere in the DRC, with peace efforts underway involving Congo, Rwanda, and the US.

Shoprite has launched its 29th distribution centre in Gauteng, strengthening its supply chain for over 500 supermarkets. The center was developed by Equites Property Fund and is situated in Riverfields in Kempton Park, Ekurhuleni. The 94,000m2 facility stocks over 16,000 products, can handle 220 trucks and has created 1,700 jobs.

Nigeria, in collaboration with Japan International Cooperation Agency, has launched an $11.2 million innovation hub in Abuja to drive economic reform and digital innovation. Managed by NITDA, the hub intends to strengthen Nigeria’s startup ecosystem. The initiative is part of a broader $30 million grant agreement with JICA. The hub will provide startups with essential resources, including mentorship and seed funding.

Star Garments Group from Sri Lanka has opened its first African factory in Lomé, Togo, aiming to create 4,520 jobs by 2030. Supported by Komar and the International Finance Corporation, this $15 million project positions Togo as a potential cotton processing hub. The factory, named Renaissance Togo, leverages Lomé’s port infrastructure.

Uganda’s Ministry of Local Government has launched a US$234,065 milk collection centre in Nakaseke, adding to the dairy value chain. The centre boosts connectivity for farmers, with plans for milk value addition. Additionally, Uganda has begun exporting powdered milk to Algeria, marking a significant trade milestone towards positioning Uganda as a key dairy exporter in East Africa.

Yasser K. Ahmed, co-founder of Harriss International, has acquired Lugogo Mall in Uganda, home to major retailers like Carrefour and as well as former tenants Game and Shoprite. Ahmed, a Lebanese national, is also the chairman of Harriss International, known for brands like Riham. The acquisition includes rebranding the site as YK Lugogo Mall. Harriss International is partly owned by the Oppenheimer family.

The South African Post Office (SAPO) plans to capture a significant share of the courier market, aiming for R5.2 billion revenue by 2029. This shift requires R3.8 billion investment and restructuring, focusing on digital services and courier growth. SAPO’s strategy includes leveraging exclusive rights for packages under 1kg and expanding connectivity services. Despite challenges from private competitors and outdated infrastructure, SAPO seeks profitability by 2028, backed by a R2.4 billion state bailout and other strategic initiatives.

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