Major International Business Headlines Brief ::: 11 December 2025
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Major International Business Headlines Brief ::: 11 December 2025
<mailto:info at bulls.co.zw>
ü Africa: Accelerating Universal Health Coverage in the Digital Age - The Roadmap to 2030
ü Uganda: EACOP Partners With Industry Enhancement Centre to Boost National Content
ü Nigeria's Active Internet Subscribers Hit 142.6m As Mobile GSM Maintains Lead
ü South Africa: New Law Will Reveal South Africa's Huge Pay Gaps
ü South Africa: Botched Permits Spoil Start to Crayfish Season
ü South Africa: Living On R2,320 a Month - Here's How a Pensioner Spends Her Grant
ü Africa: U.S. Bill Aims to Restore and Extend Trade Benefits to 2028
ü Malawi At a Breaking Point - New World Bank Report Warns of Deepening Fiscal Crisis and a Narrow Window for Rescue
ü Kenya: High Court Suspends Nakuru-NYS Sh2.1bn Roads Deal Pending Legal Challenge
ü Africa: Millions of Africans Locked Out of Services As Biometric Digital IDs Raise Privacy and Access Concerns
ü Kenya: Advocate Wants Parliament to Halt 15pc Safaricom Share Sale Pending Review
ü Uganda Launches Nationwide Recruitment Drive for Cyber War Fighters
ü Nigeria: Tinubu Orders Nationwide Security Overhaul, Directs NEC to Convert Grazing Reserves Into Ranches
ü South Africa: Cabinet Thanks All South Africans for Successful G20 Presidency
ü Mexico approves up to 50% tariffs on China and other countries
ü Fed lowers interest rates but future cuts uncertain
<mailto:info at bulls.co.zw>
Africa: Accelerating Universal Health Coverage in the Digital Age - The Roadmap to 2030
Over the past two decades, the world has witnessed remarkable progress in global health. Since the early 2000s, millions more people have gained access to essential services; maternal and child mortality have declined dramatically; access to HIV treatment has transformed lives and life expectancy; and communities have benefited from historic investments in primary health care. These achievements reflect an extraordinary collective effort by governments, civil society, health workers, and global partnerships. Together, they form the foundation of the promise enshrined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): that all people, everywhere, should be able to obtain the health services they need without financial hardship.
Yet today, with less than five years left to achieve the SDGs, momentum toward universal health coverage (UHC) has stalled - 4.6 billion people worldwide still lacked access to essential health services in 2023. In many countries, health systems remain underfunded, understaffed, and/or fragmented. Economic pressures, demographic change, protracted conflicts, and an escalating climate crisis are stretching systems beyond their limits. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed longstanding weaknesses and diverted resources away from essential services. Millions of people are being pushed back into poverty due to health expenses, leading to widening inequalities. Despite the progress of the early 21st century, the world is not on track to achieve SDG 3.8 on UHC by 2030. As per the UHC global monitoring report 2025, the global UHC service coverage index will remain below 80, and close to 1 in 4 people globally will continue to face health-related financial hardship in 2030
This is not because UHC is unachievable. It is because the systems designed to deliver it have not kept pace with the complexity and scale of today’s health challenges.
Digital Health: A Renewed Opportunity to Accelerate UHC
The rapid evolution of digital technologies offers a transformational opportunity to regain momentum. Digital health, when implemented responsibly and equitably, can strengthen primary health care, improve service quality, support health workers, increase system efficiency, and extend care to underserved communities. Digital technologies are reshaping how countries advance toward UHC, through better data systems, stronger support for frontline workers, and AI-enabled earlier diagnosis and outbreak detection.
But the promise of digital health will only be realised if countries create the right conditions for it to succeed. Technology alone cannot transform health systems. Digital transformation is not merely a technical issue, it requires political leadership.
Why Progress on Digital Transformation Has Been Slow
Despite increasing interest and investment, many countries have struggled to integrate digital solutions at scale. Fragmented systems, weak governance, misaligned donor investments, insufficient regulation, and limited long-term financing have kept digital health initiatives small, pilot-driven, and unable to deliver national impact. Too often, digital tools are introduced without being integrated into routine services, without the skills or capacity needed for sustained use, and/or without the policies that protect people’s rights and data.
These barriers are not technological, they are structural and political, the result of decision making and prioritisation within different government departments, ministries and state structures (such as the legislature and the judiciary). Achieving UHC in the digital age requires leadership, legislation, regulation, financing, and accountability.
“Technology feels like magic because it promises shortcuts - but in digital health, skipping steps creates fragility. Strong governance and enforceable regulation are the real superpowers that help systems withstand political and technological change. That’s why the Transform Health Roadmap stands out! It sequences the true building blocks of transformation, especially those strengthening regulation and governance.” ~ Al Shiferaw, Senior Program Officer, Digital Africa, Gates Foundation
It requires coordination across ministries, alignment between national and subnational authorities, and meaningful participation from civil society, communities, and health workers. Without this enabling environment, digital tools risk reinforcing the very inequities and inequitable systems they are meant to address and reduce.
Introducing the Roadmap to 2030: Health for All in the Digital Age
This is where the Roadmap to 2030: Health for All in the Digital Age plays a vital role (read and endorse the Roadmap). Developed through an inclusive, multi-sector process, engaging governments, civil society, youth organisations, health workers, and global experts, the Roadmap outlines a collective agenda for how digital transformation can accelerate progress toward UHC.
“Digital health is inherently chaotic - and that’s not a bad thing. Chaos sparks experimentation. But without alignment, it also fuels fragmentation and duplication. The Roadmap gives us shared language and a practical way to turn that chaos into collective progress.”
~Caroline Mbindyo, CEO, Amref Health Innovations, Amref Health Africa
The Roadmap, launched on 12th December as we celebrate UHC Day. It was officially introduced to the global community through the closing plenary session during the Global Digital Health Forum 2025, where it was well received. It provides countries, and others, with a clear, coherent framework for creating the enabling environment necessary to scale digital health solutions safely, equitably, and effectively. It highlights the policy reforms, regulatory foundations, financing strategies, and governance arrangements required to integrate digital technologies into health systems in ways that protect rights, enhance quality, and improve access. And it emphasises that digital transformation must be country-owned, people-centred, and grounded in principles of equity, trust, and accountability.
Critically, it positions UHC and digital transformation as inherently political commitments, not technical undertakings. Both require sustained national leadership, long-term investment, and coordinated action across sectors and stakeholders. Progress towards UHC through digital technology also demands that governments take responsibility for shaping systems that serve everyone, including the most marginalised.
A Call to Political Leaders, Digital Health Champions, and Civil Society
The Roadmap is designed for those who shape national priorities and global strategies: political leaders, ministries of health and finance, digital-health authorities, civil society organisations, regulators, donors, and the innovators designing the next generation of digital tools. It invites all of us to work together to ensure that digital health becomes a driver of health system transformation to deliver UHC by 2030.
The next five years will determine whether the world moves closer to health for all, or whether inequalities deepen further. By adopting and implementing the Roadmap to 2030, countries can strengthen their foundations for UHC, build resilient and future-ready health systems, and ensure that digital transformation contributes to the promise of the Sustainable Development Goals.
The opportunity is still within reach. With the right political will, aligned investments, strong governance, and an unwavering commitment to equity and inclusion, digital health can help deliver what the world promised in 2015: that no one, anywhere, will be left behind.
Mathilde Forslund is the founding CEO of Transform Health - a multi-sector coalition that sets out to harness digital technology and data to accelerate progress towards universal health coverage (UHC). Dr. Magda Robalo is the UHC2030 co-chair and interim executive director of Women in Global Health.
Uganda: EACOP Partners With Industry Enhancement Centre to Boost National Content
The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) Ltd. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Industry Enhancement Centre (IEC), marking a major step toward strengthening national content development and enhancing the capabilities of Ugandan Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) involved in the oil and gas sector.
Established in 2024 by TotalEnergies EP Uganda (TEPU), China National Offshore Oil Corporation Uganda Limited (CNOOC), and the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), the IEC was created in response to recommendations from the 2013 Industrial Baseline Survey (IBS), which emphasized the need to expand local participation in the sector.
The centre focuses on supporting Ugandan enterprises to effectively engage in oil and gas activities, diversify their services, and foster sustainable growth through training, advisory support, and business consultancy.
Under the new partnership, EACOP and the IEC will work together to ensure timely dissemination of business opportunities from EACOP, its contractors, and subcontractors to local companies within the IEC network.
The two organizations will also collaborate on training programs, outreach initiatives, and stakeholder engagements across Kampala and other districts, aimed at building capacity and developing skills among local enterprises.
In addition, EACOP will extend its contractor and stakeholder network to complement IEC's ongoing programs and services.
The MoU reinforces EACOP's wider strategy to promote local participation in the oil and gas industry. The company and its contractors have previously signed partnership agreements with several professional and training institutions, including the Institute of Surveyors of Uganda and the Uganda Industrial Research Institute.
They have also established collaborations with tertiary institutions such as the Uganda Petroleum Institute, Kigumba (UPIK), Makerere University, and Kyambogo University--partnerships designed to maximize value retention and build a skilled local workforce.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, EACOP Deputy Managing Director JB Habumugisha said, "This partnership with the Industry Enhancement Centre underscores our unwavering commitment to empowering Ugandan businesses and maximizing local content. By working together, we aim to create opportunities for SMEs to grow, compete, and sustainably contribute to the oil and gas sector and the broader economy."
Jimmy Mugerwa, Managing Director of Zoramu Consulting Group, welcomed the collaboration, noting its importance for Uganda's economic development.
"We are excited to collaborate with EACOP Ltd. to provide Ugandan enterprises with the training, guidance, and networks they need to thrive. This MoU represents a significant step forward in building local capacity and ensuring that Ugandan companies are key players in the development of our country's oil and gas industry," he said.
The partnership highlights both organizations' commitment to sustainable development, national content enhancement, and long-term capacity building for Ugandan SMEs.
Read the original article on Nile Post.
Nigeria's Active Internet Subscribers Hit 142.6m As Mobile GSM Maintains Lead
Nigeria's active subscribers for data internet services reached a total of 142,631, 825 as at October 2025, up from 140,949,570 recorded in September 2025, statistics on internet subscribers released by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has revealed.
Although the 142,631,825 number cuts across each of the licensed service providers' platform utilising the different technologies, such as Mobile GSM, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA). Fixed Wired, Wired/Wireless and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), the Mobile GSM technology has the highest number of active internet subscribers of 142,004,662 connected to it, making it the highest subscribed technology for internet connectivity in Nigeria.
Of the connected internet subscribers via Mobile GSM devices, MTN alone has 78,149,569 subscribers connected to its network, Airtel has 49,270,318, Globacom has 13,829,813 connected subscribers, while T2 has 754,962 connected subscribers as at October 2025.
According to the statistics, as at January 2025, the total number of internet subscriber data across all the different technologies, was 142,161,409, with Mobile GSM technology leading with 141,655,587 internet subscribers.
In February 2025, the total number of internet subscriber data across all the different technologies, was 141,250,113, with Mobile GSM technology leading with 140,741,377 internet subscribers.
In March 2025, the total number of internet subscriber data across all the different technologies, was 142,053,537, with Mobile GSM technology leading with 141,541,831 internet subscribers.
In April 2025, the total number of internet subscriber data across all the different technologies, was 141,985,207, with Mobile GSM technology leading with 141,471,371 internet subscribers.
In May 2025, the total number of internet subscriber data across all the different technologies, was 141,567,170, with Mobile GSM technology leading with 141,051,051 internet subscribers.
In June 2025, the total number of internet subscriber data across all the different technologies, was 141,171,679, with Mobile GSM technology leading with 140,643,046 internet subscribers.
In July 2025, the total number of internet subscriber data across all the different technologies, was 138,749,365, with Mobile GSM technology leading with 138,220,051 internet subscribers.
In August 2025, the total number of internet subscriber data across all the different technologies, was 140,328,196, with Mobile GSM technology leading with 139,789,283 internet subscribers.
In September 2025, the total number of internet subscriber data across all the different technologies, was 140,949,570 with Mobile GSM technology leading with 140,358,821 internet subscribers.
In October 2025, the total number of internet subscriber data across all the different technologies, was 142,631,825 with Mobile GSM technology leading with 142,004,662 internet subscribers.
Analysing the growth in internet subscriber statistics, Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, who is also the spokesperson for all telecoms operators in Nigeria, said Nigeria would experience further growth in internet subscriber number in subsequent months, following the investments on fibre carried out by telecoms operators in the last few months. "By the time NCC releases another industry statistics in November and December this year, the figures will definitely appreciate, following recent investment on fibre cables and network expansion carried out by telecoms operators." Adebayo said.
Read the original article on This Day.
South Africa: New Law Will Reveal South Africa's Huge Pay Gaps
Amendments to the Companies Act will oblige companies to disclose the gap between the lowest paid worker and the top executive
Amendments to the Companies Act will compel companies to reveal the gap between the lowest paid worker and the chief executive, essential information in a country often described as the most unequal in the world.
The amendment to Section 30 of the Companies Act has been passed by Parliament and is to be signed into law by the President.
It will compel JSE-listed companies and public companies like Eskom to disclose pay ratios, and give shareholders binding voting power on remuneration policies.
Companies will have to disclose total remuneration of the highest-paid employee, total remuneration of the lowest-paid employee, average total remuneration of all employees, and median total remuneration of all employees (median is the salary in the middle; half of the employees earn more and half earn less).
The new rules will help the public understand the "reasonableness" of these pay structures. Is it reasonable to pay a chief executive R50-million a year? Under what conditions?
Shoprite reported paying its chief executive Pieter Engelbrecht R68-million in its 2024 financial year. Shoprite provides over 150,000 jobs (in a country with such high unemployment, this adds real value). These workers, in turn, spend money at other local businesses, and keep money circulating within the country.
Some banks and investment firms, however, pay extremely high remuneration packages while employing very few people. Banks also have very few low-paid workers compared to retailers.
The amendments will make visible what was often hard to see. Executives are often paid in shares and bonuses as well as salaries and it is hard for anyone other than an accountant to understand executive remuneration -- which includes vested and unvested shares, realised and deferred earnings etc -- in some company annual reports.
The Labour Research Service (LRS) monitors about 70 JSE-listed companies, and for the 2024 financial year, for the first time, we have looked at pay ratios for the JSE top 40. In that year the amendments to the Companies Act had not yet come into effect, so we calculated the ratios based on the national minimum wage of R27.58 per hour or R1,103.20 a week.
Our top 20 list (from the JSE Top 40 companies) has Naspers at its head, with a pay ratio of over 6,000. The average ratio on the list is 1,270:1; and the median is 939:1.
Ranking Company CEO Remuneration FY2024 Ratio to NMW
1 Naspers 344,698,113 6,009
2 BHP Group 157,648,149 2,748
3 Richemont 143,796,923 2,507
4 Bid Corporation 134,797,000 2,350
5 Investec 124,690,476 2,174
6 South32 97,112,498 1,693
7 Nedbank Group 96,856,000 1,688
8 Glencore 95,727,272 1,669
9 Standard Bank Group 89,216,000 1,555
10 British American Tobacco 87,188,993 1,520
11 AngloGold Ashanti 83,857,727 1,462
12 Anglo American 80,076,735 1,396
13 Mondi 69,607,134 1,213
14 Shoprite Holdings 68,523,000 1,194
15 The Bidvest Group 66,946,000 1,167
16 Capitec Bank Holdings 65,740,000 1,146
17 NEPI Rockcastle 64,995,100 1,133
18 Vodacom Group 61,741,761 1,076
19 FirstRand 60,710,000 1,058
20 Impala Platinum Holdings 53,864,000 939
These numbers are big. Naspers' chief executive Bob van Dijk earned over R340-million in a single year (with the new chief executive Fabricio Bloisi to earn close to R1-billion for this financial year).
It is true that Naspers does not only operate in South Africa, but it has a significant presence here and benefits from hard-working people in South Africa and across the African continent.
Naspers is a bit of an outlier. Let's look at Standard Bank, eighth on our list. It would take a minimum wage earner over 1,500 years of working full time to earn the R89-million that Sim Tshabalala earned in 2024. Or, at R27.58 per hour, or 3.2-million hours of work.
These figures are significantly higher than recommended by the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development for developing countries, where a more equitable and socially responsible range for executive remuneration to minimum wage is roughly 10-50:1 as a normative range, with about 30:1 as a midpoint (Executive to Average/Typical Worker Pay).
Companies claim that remuneration packages are performance-based. However, a recent study by the Labour Research Service and Active Shareholder (reported on by Ann Crotty) in Currency News showed that the link between profits and remuneration packages is random.
Active shareholders often vote against huge remuneration packages, but the company is not obliged to take this into account. However, this is set to change. Binding votes will make it much harder for remuneration committees to hand out huge packages and golden handshakes.
Huge executive packages are a key driver of income inequality, and increasing inequality severely impedes social mobility. According to some estimates, in South Africa 10% of the population earns 55%-60% of all income. In advanced economies, this number is closer to 20-35%. The next 40% of the South African population (considered the 'middle class') earn about 30-35% of all income but only own 5-10% of all wealth. The poorest 50% of the population earn only about 10% of the income and own no wealth.
Dr Salomé Teuteberg leads the Transforming Corporate Governance programme at the Labour Research Service in Cape Town.
Views expressed are not necessarily those of GroundUp.
Read the original article on GroundUp.
South Africa: Botched Permits Spoil Start to Crayfish Season
West Coast small-scale fishers say the crayfish season has been marred by administrative turmoil after the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment issued erroneous permits with reduced quotas for some West Coast cooperatives.
The department also changed fishing areas, contradicting a legally binding exemption allowing the small-scale fishers to harvest nearshore.
The Legal Resources Centre says commercial lobster fishers meanwhile received huge increases in their quota for the same areas.
West Coast small-scale fishers are demanding answers from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) after they were issued erroneous permits and received reduced quotas for West Coast rock lobster (kreef or crayfish).
The West Coast Small-Scale Fishers Cooperative Forum, which has 17 cooperatives and over 1,000 members, says the start of the crayfish season has been marred by "administrative turmoil" and "legal confusion". The forum says the DFFE issued incorrect permits and offered no clarity, despite repeated urgent requests from legal representatives of the fishers.
This comes a few months after an announcement by former-DFFE Minister Dion George that the crayfish total allowable catch (TAC) would substantially increase - by 58%. GroundUp previously reported how the decision was welcomed, but concerns remained about the shortening of the fishing season from six to four months.
Yet several West Coast cooperatives received lower quotas than last year. On 12 November, the Legal Resources Centre (LRC) wrote to the DFFE regarding the lowering of allocations for West Coast cooperatives, while there were significant increases for the commercial sector and some other small-scale cooperatives.
The LRC received no response. But on 14 November, several cooperatives were notified that there had been an "error" in the permits issued and that a correction had been made.
The department issued the corrections, and said that "continued progress will be made in promoting transparency and consultation regarding the processes related to the allocations".
The LRC wrote again on 17 November that the new quotas "reflected varying increases" for West Coast cooperatives, but the adjustment seemed to have been made by decreasing allocations for five other cooperatives on the West Coast.
The LRC asked the DFFE for its data and for clarification on the reasons for its allocations.
It's an administrative nightmare, says Hilda Adams, chairperson of the West Coast Small-Scale Fishers Cooperative Forum. Currently, about 11 cooperatives are waiting for their new permits. Without them they may not go to sea. Meanwhile, the crayfish season started a few weeks ago.
The fishers are demanding to meet with new DFFE Minister Willie Aucamp. They want immediate correction of all permit errors, a confirmation of "legally compliant" offshore harvesting areas, and a "public explanation for the repeated administrative failures and document recalls".
Offshore vs nearshore
In a third letter to the DFFE, sent on 1 December, the LRC raised concerns about the DFFE changing the fishing areas allocated to several West Coast cooperatives.
Previously, small-scale fishers were allowed to catch nearshore with hoop nets. This is primarily because small-scale fishers use smaller boats and offshore fishing requires more resources. The fishers received an exemption from the DFFE at the beginning of 2025, valid until January 2027, allowing them to harvest their offshore allocation in the nearshore. But the department's corrections allocated this offshore quota to area 7, where there is no nearshore allocation.
"This means that the cooperatives will not be able to utilise the exemption to catch the [crayfish] in Area 7's nearshore," said the LRC.
In a statement, the West Coast Forum said, "These instructions directly contradict a legally binding exemption signed by the previous minister."
At the time, the department made the exemption, it said it aimed to "support the economic sustainability of small-scale fishing cooperatives".
Adams says the recent change means that fishers will lose their "main income" and "food security".
"We won't be able to go [offshore] because of all the expenses," said Adams.
The LRC also raised issues around the landing site for area 7, which is in Saldanha Bay. It would mean significant fuel expenditure.
The LRC said previously the cooperatives were allowed to harvest offshore in areas 5 and 6, and "the harvest was plentiful".
Wilmien Wicomb, of the LRC, said, "The crux of the matter is, they seem to again be treated unequally with the commercial sector."
"The commercial lobster [fisheries] in the same areas got huge increases and in particular nearshore increases. The small-scale [fishers] should have preferential access to the nearshore. It's their lifeblood, and where they can operate."
Wicomb reiterated that it was difficult to understand how the department made decisions, because it had not provided any reasons or underlying data.
The DFFE had not responded at the time of publication. Its response will be added when received.
Read the original article on GroundUp.
South Africa: Living On R2,320 a Month - Here's How a Pensioner Spends Her Grant
"Sometimes by the 15th of the month, the groceries are all done," says 61-year-old Noah Libbie
61-year-old Noah Libbie from Bonteheuwel is one of roughly 4-million South Africans who receive the Older Persons Grant.
On Tuesday last week, GroundUp followed Libbie as she collected her grant. R120 is deducted for a life insurance policy. She spent nearly R1,500 leaving her with about R700 to get through the rest of the month.
Most of her money went to groceries, meat, and household cleaning items.
While she is grateful for the grant, she said it's difficult to stretch it through the month.
Pensioner Noah Libbie, 61, left her home in Bonteheuwel shortly after 9am last Tuesday, to catch the bus to Parow Centre and collect her Older Person's Grant. She was one of about 4-million people who received the grant. GroundUp followed her as she collected her grant, seeing how she stretches it to cover the needs of her household.
She receives R2,200 of the R2,320 grant, after R120 is deducted for a life insurance policy. Libbie chose to do her shopping at Parow Centre because it's the closest big shopping centre. It's also close to butcheries and other food stores that she says charge less than other stores.
Libbie worked as an examiner at a shoe factory for nearly 40 years. "I had some tough times ... It wasn't always great working in the factories. Sometimes you want to just leave and walk out, but then you think of your children."
She lives with her three daughters, her son-in-law, and three grandchildren. One daughter receives the R370 Social Relief of Distress grant. The other two and Libbie's son-in-law have jobs. "We look after one another. If you don't have, I give and you give me," she said.
Shopping on a grant
After withdrawing R1,000, she started her grant-day errands. Her first stop was Checkers, where she picked up essential groceries and a few treats for herself and her family. Her grandchild's 16th birthday was coming up, and the family planned a braai.
What she bought:
1 x box of 200 tissues - R24.99
1 x 750ml Housebrand dishwashing liquid refill - R22.99
2 x Blue Ribbon bread - R33.98
1 x Albany loaf - R16.99
Parmalat cheese - R66.15
4 x packets of boerewors - R221.52
1 x Lunchbar - R15.49
1 x 2-litre Darling full-cream milk - R29.99
2 x Eastern Highlands Still Water 750ml - R19.98
1 x 750ml Housebrand all-purpose cleaner - R24.99
2 x French large rolls - R33.98
3 x checkout bags - R3.90
The original total was R514.95 but with Checkers' Xtra Savings she paid R501.97.
She also bought a few personal items at Fashion World for R75.
Next, she headed to Fairfield Meat Centre, stocking up on meat, fruit, and spices:
1 x Box of Dhania Grillhouse Burger patties - R59.95
1 x pack of lemons - R10
1 x box of pizza bases - R25
1 x corned beef - R323
1 x box of nectarines - R20
1 x box of plums - R20
4 x 11-in-1 spice pack - R100
2 x checkout bags - R2
Total: R559.95
Further down Voortrekker Road she stopped at Vis Fabriek to buy seafood
1 x checkout bag R1.80
4 x packets of Seafood mix - R239.80
Total: R241.60
She made her final stop at Sumthing Meat where she bought three packets of polony.
1 x Ham and Tongue - R38.50
1 x Chicken Polony - R30
1 x French polony - R18.50
Total: R87
The bus fare was R30 from Bonteheuwel to Parow and back. By the end of the day, Libbie had spent R1,495.52 of her R2,200 grant, leaving her with about R705 for the rest of the month.
"I must keep that for electricity, bread and milk," she said.
"You buy what you need. You're not going to buy meat every month because you can't afford that."
Pointing to her trolley, she said, "Look, I don't have potatoes or onions, I must still buy toilet paper, and more dishwashing liquid and Jik for the household ... I'm thankful for the money I get, but there's a lot of things I still need," Libbie said.
Her children's help is essential, Libbie said. "Each one gets me something ... When I go out, they'll give me breakfast money or money for clothes."
The family shares what they have. "Maybe if I prepare food for two days, then on Sunday, one of my daughters will cook. You must just learn how to work with what you have." The household also splits electricity which costs about R1,000 a month.
"If the children don't help it's a struggle. But you can't complain, because everybody struggles."
Libbie also gives her grandchildren R10 each when she can.
To get through the month, she sometimes sells sweets, eggs, doughnuts, or rotis. "Sometimes I make R70 to R300 per day ... sometimes I make R30, which is at least bread money for me."
Although Libbie is very careful with her grant money, the last stretch before month-end is often hard. "By the last week of the month, we really feel it... Sometimes by the 15th of the month, the groceries are all done. But then my daughter will help."
Still, she finds reason to stay hopeful. "Life has ups and downs. It can't be bad all the time."
Read the original article on GroundUp.
Africa: U.S. Bill Aims to Restore and Extend Trade Benefits to 2028
A new bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives - and scheduled for markup today - seeks to extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) for three more years, preserving duty-free access for thousands of African exports to the American market and offering retroactive relief to importers affected by the program's lapse earlier this fall.
The AGOA Extension Act, introduced by Rep. Jason Smith of Missouri, would push the program's expiration date from Sept. 30, 2025, to Dec. 31, 2028, according to the bill text. The proposal also extends key apparel provisions -- including the regional apparel and third-country fabric rules -- through 2028.
Under the draft legislation, any eligible African goods that entered the United States after Sept. 30, 2025, but before the bill becomes law would be liquidated or reliquidated as if AGOA benefits had remained in force. Importers would have 180 days from enactment to file refund requests with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which would then be required to reimburse duties -- without interest -- within 90 days.
The measure also extends certain U.S. customs user fees, including merchandise-processing fees, through Dec. 31, 2031, aligning them with other trade-related statutory deadlines.
AGOA, first enacted in 2000, grants duty-free access to more than 6,500 products from eligible sub-Saharan African countries. It has become a cornerstone of U.S.-Africa economic relations, especially for textile- and apparel-dependent economies such as Kenya, Lesotho, Ethiopia and Mauritius.
The extension bill comes amid mounting pressure from African governments and U.S. industry groups, who warn that uncertainty over AGOA's future threatens jobs, investment and supply-chain stability on both sides of the Atlantic.
The bill will next be taken up by the relevant House committee. Its prospects will depend on negotiations between lawmakers who support a long-term renewal and those seeking broader reforms to U.S. trade preference programs.
AGOA was born out of President Bill Clinton's well-known 1994 declaration after a visit to Africa: "More trade, less aid." Some recall that Clinton was struck "by the extreme poverty of the people and the opulence of their governments and dictators," leading him to sign the Africa bill into law in May 2000.
The new National Security Strategy echoes that spirit. But the Trump administration, critics say, missed a "golden opportunity" at the end of July, allowing AGOA to expire on Sept. 30.
According to a lobbyist representing Mauritius and several other African countries, "Trade is being seriously disrupted and millions of dollars are being lost."
"We're all waiting nervously for the House Ways and Means Committee to introduce a serious renewal bill that can move on the next available vehicle before the end of the year. Intense lobbying is underway. Keep your fingers crossed."
Read the original article on L'Express.
Malawi At a Breaking Point - New World Bank Report Warns of Deepening Fiscal Crisis and a Narrow Window for Rescue
Malawi is standing on the edge of its most dangerous financial cliff in decades, a new Public Finance Review by the World Bank has warned--painting a sobering picture of an economy squeezed by unsustainable debt, chronic deficits, and systemic governance failures that threaten national stability.
The report, titled "Restoring Stability, Rebuilding Trust," reveals that years of mounting fiscal and external pressures--supercharged by shocks since 2019--have plunged the country into its most severe economic crisis in recent history. Per capita GDP has fallen in four of the past five years. Poverty is rising, inflation remains stubbornly high, and public confidence in economic institutions has sharply eroded.
But the most striking message in the document is this: Malawi has reached a point where inaction is no longer an option. Any further delay in tackling the crisis risks tipping the nation into irreversible economic decline.
A Vicious Cycle Draining the Economy
According to the review, Malawi's fiscal deficit is among the largest in Sub-Saharan Africa, consistently overshooting approved budgets and violating regional benchmarks. The deficit is financed largely through expensive borrowing and Reserve Bank money creation--a combination that fuels inflation, erodes the value of the kwacha, and deepens the cost-of-living crisis.
Rising debt-service payments--already consuming more than half of domestic revenue--are crowding out funding for development sectors such as health, education, roads, and social protection. For a country already battling widespread poverty, the implications are grave.
"Malawi is caught in a vicious cycle," the report warns. "Rigid expenditures and debt repayment obligations are squeezing out investments needed to spur growth and strengthen resilience."
Exchange Rate Distortions and Costly Subsidies
The report also shines a harsh light on Malawi's foreign exchange regime, describing it as distorted, opaque, and economically damaging. The Reserve Bank's forex operations have incurred enormous losses--over MWK 700 billion in 2023 alone--forcing government to issue promissory notes for recapitalization.
Fuel subsidies, which stem from delayed adjustments to pump prices, are another burden. These implicit subsidies disproportionately benefit the rich, not the poor. Worse, they have created billions in arrears that will haunt the fiscus for years.
Public Spending: High, Rigid, and Inefficient
Government spending has nearly doubled over a decade--from 16% to over 30% of GDP--yet service delivery has not improved in equal measure. The public wage bill has grown to more than 6% of GDP, fuelled by unchecked workforce expansion, inconsistent promotions, and widespread allowance abuse. The report identifies deep inefficiencies in Public Financial Management (PFM) systems, with the Integrated Financial Management Information System still not fully used. Weak procurement, unvetted projects, and low execution rates undermine development spending.
The result? Billions lost to leakages, delays, and poor planning.
Revenue Performance: Growth, but Not Enough
On the revenue side, Malawi's tax-to-GDP ratio has climbed to nearly 15%--but still falls short of the 17% target set by the Domestic Resource Mobilization Strategy. Frequent tax policy reversals, excessive exemptions, and fragmented administration have limited progress. The report estimates that Malawi loses 1.4% of GDP every year through tax incentives--many of which lack economic justification. Reforms such as digital invoicing, rationalizing tax incentives, and tightening compliance could raise revenue by up to 6.5% of GDP, the World Bank says.
State-Owned Enterprises: Big Losses, Bigger Risks
Another pressure point is Malawi's troubled state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Several--particularly in the energy and water sectors--are technically insolvent, posting massive losses and depending on federal bailouts.
In 2024 alone, aggregate SOE performance swung from a MWK 543 billion profit to a MWK 47.6 billion loss.
The report warns that without urgent governance reforms--professional boards, transparent reporting, and commercial discipline--SOEs will continue draining public coffers while failing to deliver reliable services.
Mining: A Promise, Not a Miracle
Malawi's emerging mining sector could offer a future lifeline, potentially generating up to US$ 200-500 million annually by the 2030s. But the report cautions against unrealistic expectations. Poorly negotiated mining agreements, tax loopholes, weak monitoring, and administrative gaps could dramatically reduce the country's revenue share. "The risk of a 'presource curse' looms large," the report notes, warning that early celebration could spur reckless borrowing before actual revenues materialize.
A Call to Courage
In its concluding message, the World Bank warns that Malawi's runway for action is shrinking fast. "Persistent imbalances, depleted buffers, and mounting fiscal risks leave Malawi more vulnerable than ever before," the report says. "The next shock could have catastrophic implications."
Yet the report is not without hope. It insists that with decisive leadership, Malawi can reverse its trajectory, rebuild trust, and reclaim a sustainable economic future. For now, Malawi stands at a crossroads. The months ahead will reveal whether the nation chooses the hard road of reform--or the far harder consequence of avoiding it.
Read the original article on Nyasa Times.
Kenya: High Court Suspends Nakuru-NYS Sh2.1bn Roads Deal Pending Legal Challenge
Nakuru — The High Court has halted the implementation of the contentious Sh2.1 billion roads improvement agreement between the Nakuru County Government and the National Youth Service (NYS), pending the determination of a petition challenging its legality.
In a ruling delivered on Wednesday, the court certified as urgent a petition filed by activists Paul Muchiri and Kepha Omuyoma, who argued that the county entered into the multimillion-shilling agreement without following due procurement procedures and without conducting public participation as required by law.
The petitioners told the court that the deal, signed on November 7, was shrouded in secrecy and violated constitutional principles of transparency, accountability, and prudent use of public resources.
They sought conservatory orders to bar both the Nakuru County Government and NYS from operationalizing the project until the matter is heard and determined.
Granting the interim orders, the court directed the respondents to file their responses and set the matter for mention to confirm compliance and issue further directions.
The suspension temporarily halts what county officials had termed a major infrastructure partnership aimed at upgrading roads across various wards, including low-volume tarmac and gravel roads.
However, critics have raised concerns over bypassing competitive bidding processes and sidelining residents in decision-making.
The case is expected to ignite fresh debate on county procurement practices and the growing trend of counties entering into direct agreements with State agencies.
Read the original article on Capital FM.
Africa: Millions of Africans Locked Out of Services As Biometric Digital IDs Raise Privacy and Access Concerns
Nairobi — Millions of Africans are unable to access essential services, including healthcare, education, social protection payments, and voting, as new biometric digital-ID systems continue to be imposed across the continent, a new report by the African Digital Rights Network (ADRN) warns.
The systems require citizens to provide personal and biometric information, with limited safeguards for privacy or legal protection.
"Worryingly, fundamental human rights, like education, healthcare and the right to vote, are rapidly becoming conditional on enrolment in biometric digital-ID systems," said Tony Roberts, Research Fellow at the Institute of Development Studies and co-editor of the report.
"While some may benefit from the convenience of digital-ID systems to access essential services, it is locking out millions of citizens who cannot enroll in biometric digital-ID systems, particularly those with disabilities."
On his part, Paradigm Initiative Executive Director Gbenga Sesan warned that many citizens remain hesitant to enrol in biometric digital-ID systems due to privacy concerns and mistrust of government handling of personal data.
"We have found examples of massive data breaches, and in some countries, personal data is used to surveil and target peaceful critics of the government and opposition leaders."
The report highlights that most biometric-ID systems in Africa, which cost an estimated US$1 billion to implement continent-wide, lack robust legal frameworks and accountability mechanisms, leaving citizens exposed to potential human-rights violations and data misuse.
Marginalized groups, including people with disabilities, those living in rural areas, and the illiterate, face additional barriers such as the cost of mobile data, phone access, and electricity for device charging.
Kenya has been advancing its digital-ID agenda through the Maisha Namba programme, which assigns citizens a unique identification number linked to their biometric data.
While the initiative aims to streamline access to government services, it has faced criticism for privacy risks, legal ambiguities, and difficulties for vulnerable populations struggling to register.
Across Africa, governments continue to push top-down biometric-ID systems despite public protests in some countries.
The study argues that citizens' interests, rights, and freedoms must be central to any digital-ID deployment, and recommends participatory approaches and robust legislation to ensure equitable benefits while safeguarding privacy.
Read the original article on Capital FM.
Kenya: Advocate Wants Parliament to Halt 15pc Safaricom Share Sale Pending Review
Nairobi — A petition has been filed urging Parliament to scrutinize the Government of Kenya's proposed sale of a 15 percent stake in Safaricom, citing concerns over valuation transparency and potential long-term fiscal losses.
Lawyer Francis Wanjiku, in a memorandum to the National Assembly's Finance and Privatization committees, highlighted financial and structural risks in the planned divestiture.
"The State may be forgoing material value upside that would otherwise accrue to the public balance sheet or future budgets without disclosing material facts to the public," read the memorandum in part.
The divestiture proposes selling 15 percentage points of the government's 35 percent Safaricom stake to Vodacom for an estimated Sh244.5 billion, which includes Sh204.3 billion from the share sale and Sh40.2 billion upfront for future dividend rights.
Wanjiku flagged concerns over the pricing methodology, noting that the proposed Sh34 per share represents a 23.6 percent premium over the six-month volume-weighted average price (VWAP) of Sh27.50, but lacks independent valuation or a fairness opinion.
"Without an independent validation, investors may interpret the transaction as opportunistic or fiscally pressured, potentially widening sovereign risk premia and reducing appetite for future asset sales."
The petition also questioned the monetization of future dividend rights, which is projected to forgo Sh15.5 billion compared to the estimated Sh55.7 billion in cumulative dividends.
Wanjiku suggested alternative structures, such as staged monetization or revenue participation, to safeguard long-term fiscal inflows.
The advocate recommended immediate public disclosure of all valuation models, assumptions, and advisor credentials, along with negotiation of protective clauses to preserve potential upside from Safaricom's future earnings.
The Finance and Privatization committee are now expected to review the memorandum as part of public participation on the proposed divestiture.
Read the original article on Capital FM.
Uganda Launches Nationwide Recruitment Drive for Cyber War Fighters
Uganda has moved to intensify its national cyber-defense capabilities with the launch of Operation Cyber Digital Shield, a countrywide recruitment drive aimed at building a formal force of trained Cyber War Fighters.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Cyber Security and Forensics Association of Uganda (CSFAU), follows the recent Cyber Stars University Student competition and seeks to enlist both professionals and students to defend the country against increasingly sophisticated digital threats.
CSFAU Director Marvin Kashaija Blessed, a certified cyber security and forensics expert, said the new drive marks a critical shift in how Uganda prepares for modern warfare.
"For too long, Uganda has relied on external expertise," Kashaija said. "Cyber-attacks are the new form of economic and geopolitical warfare, targeting our critical national infrastructure. By investing in our home-grown talent, we are strengthening our borders in the digital domain."
He added that the recruitment campaign directly supports the National Cybersecurity Strategy, particularly its goal of building a highly skilled cyber workforce capable of responding to state-sponsored attacks, financial system breaches, and threats to national infrastructure.
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) welcomed the effort. Christine Mujimba, UCC's Director of ICT and Research, said the economic toll of cybercrime demands urgent investment in local human capacity.
"The global cost of cybercrime is staggering," Mujimba said. "By training the younger generation through practical, outcome-based learning, we are closing the skills gap and reinforcing national defenses against digital fraud and data breaches."
The new operation opens several membership pathways under CSFAU, including a professional tier for experts contributing to policy and threat intelligence, a student tier for university learners trained and certified for frontline digital defense, and an affiliate tier targeting non-technical professionals who need organizational security skills.
CSFAU President Muganhwa Emmanuel Cliff described the campaign as a national call to service.
"This is a call to arms for the digital generation," he said. "By joining CSFAU, you are formally enlisting as a Cyber War Fighter dedicated to protecting the data, systems and sovereignty of our nation. The time to fortify our shield is now."
Operation Cyber Digital Shield is expected to run nationwide, with CSFAU positioning itself as the central command structure for building Uganda's next generation of cyber-defense experts.
Read the original article on Nile Post.
Nigeria: Tinubu Orders Nationwide Security Overhaul, Directs NEC to Convert Grazing Reserves Into Ranches
The president directed the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, to task the NEC with identifying which grazing reserves can be transformed into livestock settlements.
President Bola Tinubu has directed the Inspector-General of Police, security chiefs, and the National Economic Council (NEC) to restructure security deployments, arm forest guards, and rehabilitate grazing reserves into economically viable ranches nationwide.
The president issued the directive at the Federal Executive Council meeting on Wednesday as part of broader efforts to curb kidnapping, terrorism and recurring farmer-herder conflicts nationwide.
The Nigerian leader noted that he is aware that "our people are exposed" and said there is an urgent need to make exceptional provisions for their protection.
"I know some of our people are exposed and I understand that we have to make exceptional provision for them, and civil defence is equally armed, and I want the NSA to arm our forest guards too, take it very seriously," Mr Tinubu said.
He stressed that his directive must be carried out, adding: "We face challenges of Kidnapping and terrorism, we need all the forces that we can utilise."
Livestock reform
The president directed the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, to task the NEC with identifying which grazing reserves can be transformed into livestock settlements.
"Again, especially livestock reform, I think the Vice President should get the NEC first of all to see which villages or grazing reserves can be salvaged or rehabilitated into Ranches, Livestock settlements," he said.
Mr Tinubu explained that should officials encounter any security concerns while implementing his directives, they must immediately notify the police chief.
"And I told the IGP, and I hope the minister of police affairs is here. If you have any security concerns because of the nature of the assignment, please contact the IGP and get my clearance," he said.
He directed the Minister of the Interior to collaborate with the IGP and the Civil Defence structure to replace police officers currently deployed on special duties, ensuring that communities are not left unprotected.
"NSA and DSS to provide further information and form themselves the committee and review the structure," he added.
Mr Tinubu reiterated that the government must eliminate the possibility of conflicts and turn the livestock reform agenda into a viable economic venture.
"The opportunity is there, let's utilise it," he said.
He noted that since land belongs to states under the Constitution, governors should determine which areas can be converted into livestock villages.
"Let us stop this conflict area and turn it into economic opportunities and prosperity," the president said.
On 23 November, President Tinubu ordered the immediate withdrawal of police officers assigned to VIPs across the country. The Special Protection Unit of the Nigeria Police Force has since begun enforcing the directive.
Recently, the IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, disclosed that 11,566 personnel attached to VIPs had been recalled following the presidential order. Earlier today, the Senate requested that President Tinubu exempt lawmakers from the directive.
Read the original article on Premium Times.
South Africa: Cabinet Thanks All South Africans for Successful G20 Presidency
Cabinet has joined President Cyril Ramaphosa in extending its appreciation to all South Africans for their role in ensuring the successful G20 Presidency which culminated in the recently hosted G20 Leaders' Summit.
President Cyril Ramaphosa hailed South Africa's historic G20 Presidency as a resounding success both as a diplomatic achievement and a celebration of national unity.
He expressed deep gratitude to all those who contributed to making South Africa's G20 Summit a success.
"During our G20 Presidency, South Africa firmly placed Africa's development agenda in the purview of G20 leaders and mobilised consensus on meaningful actions to address the challenges constraining South Africa, Africa and the global South's development," said Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.
Briefing the media on the outcomes of Cabinet, Ntshavheni said Cabinet noted the recent position of the United States regarding South Africa's participation in the upcoming G20 Sherpa meeting and the expressed intentions to exclude South Africa, a G20 founding member, from participating in the 2026 G20 meetings.
"While this development is regrettable, as a founding member, South Africa's commitment to the G20's principles and collaborative framework remain unwavering," Ntshavheni said.
The Minister said the 2025 G20 Summit demonstrated the power of multilateralism and cooperation, and that Cabinet remains confident that multilateralism and cooperation are the path to shared prosperity for all people of the world.
Meanwhile, Cabinet has welcomed the successful hosting of the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Leaders' meeting on the margins of the G20 Leaders' Summit.
"At IBSA, South Africa called for a revitalisation of South-South cooperation to drive inclusive growth, advance sustainable development and accelerate the reform of global governance institutions.
"IBSA nations are well positioned to champion the priorities of the global South, including scaling up climate finance, enhancing food and health security, supporting foundational learning and mobilising investment for disaster risk reduction," Ntshavheni said.
The Minister briefed the media in Pretoria on Wednesday, following Cabinet's ordinary meeting on 5 December.
Read the original article on SAnews.gov.za.
Mexico approves up to 50% tariffs on China and other countries
Mexican lawmakers have approved a package of new tariffs, impacting hundreds of products, many of which come from China.
The measures, which President Claudia Sheinbaum has said are needed to boost domestic production, were passed by the Mexican Senate on Wednesday.
The levies are set to take effect on 1 January 2026 and will apply to goods like metals, cars, clothing and appliances. Dozens of countries that do not have a free trade agreement with Mexico will be affected, including Thailand, India and Indonesia.
The move comes as Mexico is in negotiations with the US over steep import taxes that President Donald Trump has threatened to impose on the country.
The measures will impose tariffs of up to 50% on more than 1,400 products.
The levies will "substantially harm the interests of trading partners, including China," said a spokesperson for Beijing's commerce ministry on Thursday.
An investigation into Mexico's trade policy is in progress, they added, urging the country to "correct" its decision.
This week, China also signalled its plans for more involvement with Latin American and Caribbean countries, as it aims to deepen its relationships in the region through trade and innovation.
Chinese companies have been expanding their footprint in Mexico in recent years, with car brands like BYD and MG establishing operations in the country.
But Washington has said Beijing may be using Mexico as a way to bypass US tariffs.
The BBC has contacted the embassies in Mexico of Thailand, India and Indonesia for comment.
Sheinbaum's government is in talks with the Trump administration as it tries to reduce tariffs that the White House has threatened to impose on the country. They include potential 50% duties on Mexican steel and aluminium.
Trump has also threatened to impose extra tariffs on Mexico for various reasons, including a 25% levy as part of Washington's measures to pressure countries to do more to stop the flow of the synthetic opioid fentanyl into America.
On Monday, Trump threatened to impose a new 5% tariff on Mexico, accusing it of violating an agreement that gives American farmers access to water.
"It is very unfair to our US Farmers who deserve this much needed water," he posted on social media.
Trump was referring to a more than 80-year-old treaty that grants the US water from Rio Grande tributaries.
For decades the US has accused Mexico of not meeting the terms of the agreement.
The US is Mexico's largest trading partner.-BBC
Fed lowers interest rates but future cuts uncertain
The US Federal Reserve has lowered interest rates for the third time this year, even as internal divisions create uncertainty about additional cuts in the coming months.
The central bank said on Wednesday it was lowering the target for its key lending rate by 0.25 percentage points, putting it in a range of 3.50% to 3.75% - its lowest level in three years.
But policymakers disagree about how the Fed should balance competing priorities: a weakening job market on the one hand, and rising prices on the other.
The Fed's economic projections released on Wednesday suggest one rate cut will take place next year, although new data could change this.
Fed chair Jerome Powell said central bankers needed time to see how the Fed's three cuts this year work their way through the US economy. Policymakers will examine incoming data closely ahead of the Fed's next meeting in January, he added.
"We are well-positioned to wait to see how the economy evolves," Powell told reporters.
Those hoping for interest rates to keep coming down, including President Donald Trump, might have to wait.
The Fed is facing a "very challenging situation" as it confronts risks of rising inflation and unemployment, Powell said, adding: "You can't do two things at once".
The decision to lower rates on Wednesday was not unanimous, suggesting widening divisions among central bankers over the outlook for the US economy.
Three Fed officials broke ranks and officially dissented.
Stephen Miran, who is on leave from his post leading Trump's Council of Economic Advisers, voted for a larger 0.5 percentage point cut.
Austan Goolsbee, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, and Jeffrey Schmid, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, voted to hold rates steady.
Trump, who has repeatedly urged Powell to lower rates, said after the meeting on Wednesday that the Fed's cut could have been "at least doubled".
"Our rates should be much lower," he said at a roundtable at the White House. "We should have the lowest rates in the world."
A data blackout during the longest-ever US government shutdown, which ended in November, has left policymakers partially in the dark about the state of the economy. But concerns about a slowing job market continue to outweigh inflation fears, at least for now.
The unemployment rate ticked up from 4.3% to 4.4% in September, Labor Department figures showed in a delayed report released last month. Cutting interest rates is aimed at stimulating the job market by creating lower borrowing costs for businesses.
Inflation is still above the Fed's 2% target. In September, it hit 3% for the first time since January.
But while tariffs appear to be boosting some consumer prices, recent milder-than-expected inflation readings have allowed the Fed to focus on boosting the labour market by lowering rates, analysts said.
Colleen McHugh, consultant to investment platform Wealthify, said higher-than-target inflation made it trickier for the Fed to cut rates, but the jobs market appeared to have nudged them in that direction.
She expects one to two more rate cuts next year.
"I think the conundrum in the states at the moment is that there's a lot of political pressure on the Fed chair and the committee there to cut rates," she told the BBC's Today programme.
Dissents and disagreements
Policymakers remain divided over the path forward for interest rates.
Asked about disagreement among policymakers, Powell acknowledged that it was "unusual" to have "persistent tension" between the Fed's two mandates to keep prices stable and unemployment low.
"And when you do, this is what you see," he said, referring to growing divisions.
But Powell characterised the internal debate between Fed officials as thoughtful and respectful.
"We come together and we reach a place where we can make a decision," he said.
Central bankers are poised to have a bit more clarity next week, with the expected release of official data on the labour market and inflation for November.
The incoming data could shift policymakers' outlook, potentially bolstering calls for further easing next year if there are new signs that the job market is stalling.
Who will succeed Powell?
Trump's search for Powell's replacement as Fed chair, once his term ends next May, is adding to uncertainty about the path forward for Fed policy.
Trump could announce his pick as soon as within the next few weeks.
Kevin Hassett, a long-time conservative economist and key Trump economic adviser, is seen as the front-runner to succeed Powell.
A Trump loyalist, Hassett served as chair of the White House Council of Economic Advisers during Trump's first term and now leads the National Economic Council.
He has been a stalwart defender of Trump's economic policies, downplaying data showing signs of weakness in the US economy, doubling down on allegations of bias at the Bureau of Labor Statistics and backing Trump's handling of the Fed.
Hassett's allegiance to the president has drawn questions from analysts about whether he would act independently.
Other names that have been floated for the Fed chair include economist Kevin Warsh, current Fed Governor Christopher Waller and even Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
Trump is "still making up his mind, and he's looking for someone who will be in his way of thinking," Thomas Hoenig, a distinguished senior fellow at the Mercatus Center, told the BBC.
The candidates, he added, "have to project that they will be independent, or the markets will become quite nervous - and that will create more volatility".
Asked on Wednesday whether Trump's search for a new Fed chair is hindering his job or changing his thinking, Powell responded with a resounding "no".-BBC
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