Beer affordability squeeze: Nigeria’s rising energy costs and heavier taxes are pushing brewers toward another round of price hikes, threatening the “last glass of consolation” for consumers. Quick-service expansion: Food Concepts Plc opened Chicken Republic and PieXpress outlets in Jos, Plateau State, bringing more affordable meals and baked pies to local diners. Food safety & public health: Kenya’s NACADA crackdown highlighted counterfeit alcohol risks, with raids in Nairobi’s Eastleigh and Jericho areas. Halal push: Nigeria is moving to mobilise $12bn for the global halal economy, aiming to turn its food, agriculture and manufacturing strength into jobs and exports. Trade & business links: Ethiopia and Thailand met in Addis Ababa to deepen B2B cooperation through matchmaking and networking. Regional hospitality growth: Hilton signed its first Zimbabwe property, Hilton Garden Inn Harare Highlands, signalling continued hotel investment across Africa. Flood relief funding: Ripple pledged $300,000 for emergency meals, safe water and sanitation for Nepal and Tibet flood-affected communities via World Central Kitchen and Mercy Corps.