BUSINESS

10 African Countries Where Cryptocurrency Is Restricted

Published

2 months ago

May 18, 2024

Cryptocurrency: 10 African Countries Where It Has No Use | Fab.ng

Cryptocurrency transactions remain banned in some African countries, despite the potential for regulatory frameworks to support their development.

According to Chainalysis, Africa is one of the fastest-growing crypto markets globally, with Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa having the highest number of users in the region.

Many governments are wary of digital assets due to concerns over money laundering, illicit activities, tax evasion, and financial fraud, as cryptocurrency transactions can be hard to trace.

In 2021, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) ordered banks to close all customer accounts involved in cryptocurrency transactions. However, this ban was lifted in December 2023.

On May 6, 2024, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) increased restrictions by delisting the naira from all peer-to-peer (P2P) platforms. The Director-General of the SEC, Emomotimi Agama, mentioned that the government is drafting new regulations for the crypto sector, following the advice of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

10 African countries that have banned cryptocurrency

Here are countries in Africa where crypto transactions or digital currencies has no use:

1. Tunisia

Tunisia is one of the African countries taking a particularly cautious approach to cryptocurrency. Back in 2018, their central bank made headlines by actually criminalising the use of cryptocurrencies.

They issued a strong statement warning people against using any digital asset that the Tunisian government did not officially approve. This strict stance shows just how seriously some African countries are taking the potential risks associated with cryptocurrency.

2. Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone has been very cautious about cryptocurrency. In 2019, their central bank took a strong stance against it. They shut down two cryptocurrency companies and made it clear that they wouldn’t be granting any licences to businesses or banks that wanted to deal with cryptocurrency deposits or trading.

This shows that Sierra Leone is concerned about the potential risks involved with cryptocurrency and is taking steps to limit its use in the country.

3. Republic of Congo

The situation regarding cryptocurrency in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a bit unclear. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) reports that the Congolese government has completely banned cryptocurrency.

However, a 2018 study by Ecobank suggests the opposite. They found no official statements from either the Congolese government or the Central Bank regarding cryptocurrency’s legality or use.

This lack of clear communication from Congolese authorities makes it difficult to say for sure what the official stance is on cryptocurrency. However, from the IMF reports, it is assumed that the government does not accept its use.

4. Ghana

Ghana is another African country taking a wait-and-see approach to cryptocurrency. The Ghanaian government has completely banned crypto transactions within the country.

Despite the ban, the government is still interested in the underlying technology behind cryptocurrency, blockchain. They’re currently studying how blockchain could be used to improve Ghana’s payment systems.

This cautious approach is evident in their actions. In 2022, they reaffirmed the 2018 ban on using cryptocurrency for any financial transactions in Ghana.

5. Algeria

Algeria has a strict ban on cryptocurrency. Back in 2018, their parliament passed a law that completely restricted digital currency activity in the country. This law prohibits Algerians from buying, selling, using, or even just owning cryptocurrency.

6. Lesotho

In 2018, the country’s central bank raised a red flag about cryptocurrency. They issued a statement warning people against promoting or investing in crypto because it wasn’t regulated or officially licensed by the government. This suggests they’re concerned about the potential risks involved.

7. Morocco

Morocco’s relationship with cryptocurrency has been a rollercoaster. In 2017, the Ministry of Economy slammed the brakes on crypto transactions, fearing they violated the country’s exchange regulations. This meant a complete ban on buying, selling, or trading cryptocurrency in Morocco.

However, things seem to be changing. In 2023, there was a positive shift. Morocco’s central bank announced they were working on drafting new regulations specifically for crypto trading. This suggests a move towards a more controlled and monitored crypto market in Morocco.

8. Tanzania

Tanzania is another African country where cryptocurrency exists in a bit of a grey area. There aren’t any written laws or regulations specifically about cryptocurrency transactions in Tanzania.

However, the Tanzanian central bank has taken a cautious approach. They issued a public statement advising people against trading or using virtual currencies like Bitcoin. The bank made it very clear that the only official currency recognised in Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling.

9. Cameroon

Cryptocurrency is a hot topic in Central Africa, but there are no clear rules yet. Cameroon, for example, belongs to the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC). This means they use the Central African CFA franc, managed by the Bank of Central African States (BEAC).

Right now, the BEAC hasn’t set any regulations for crypto trading. This might seem surprising considering the growing popularity of crypto. However, the good news is that the Cameroon government is working on it. They’re currently reviewing new rules to create a framework for cryptocurrency use in the country.

10. Egypt

Things are complicated when it comes to cryptocurrency in Egypt. In 2018, a major Islamic legal authority called Dar al-Iftai issued a religious decree. This decree said that trading Bitcoin goes against Islamic law (Sharia Law). They basically classified it as forbidden, which is the meaning of the word “haram.”

This was followed by a move from the Egyptian Central Bank in 2019. They announced plans to create a new law. This law would make it illegal to create, trade, or even promote cryptocurrency without a special licence.

So, while using digital currency isn’t completely banned, it seems Egyptian officials are cautious about it and want to regulate it very closely.

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Related Topics:Cryptocurrency Digital Currency

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BUSINESS

10 Nigerian Sectors Attracting High Foreign Investments

Published

3 weeks ago

July 7, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

10 Nigerian Sectors Attracting High Foreign Investments | Fab.ng

Nigeria, the giant of Africa, boasts a vibrant economy rich in natural resources and a young, energetic population. This makes it a prime target for foreign investors seeking lucrative opportunities for investments.

While the oil and gas sector has historically dominated foreign investments, recent trends reveal diversification across various industries.

Let’s delve into the top 10 sectors currently attracting significant foreign investments to Nigeria:

1. Banking

The Nigerian banking sector stands tall as the top recipient of foreign investments. The country’s robust financial system, coupled with a growing middle class, presents an attractive market for international banks and investors.

Recent quarters have witnessed a significant surge in foreign capital inflow into Nigerian banks, with a focus on providing financing for businesses and individuals.

2. Trading

The bustling commercial activities in Nigeria make the trading sector a magnet for foreign investments. From established retailers to import and export businesses, the opportunities are vast.

Foreign investors are drawn to the growing consumer base and the potential for establishing efficient distribution networks across the country.

3. Production & Manufacturing

Nigeria’s push for industrialization has opened doors for foreign investors in the production and manufacturing sector.

Investments are flowing into areas like food processing, pharmaceuticals, and construction materials. This sector offers the potential for import substitution, creating jobs, and boosting the nation’s self-sufficiency.

4. Telecommunications

Nigeria’s telecommunications sector has experienced phenomenal growth, fueled by a rising mobile phone penetration rate.

This has attracted significant foreign investments in network infrastructure expansion, mobile money services, and the development of innovative telecommunication solutions.

5. Information Technology (IT) Services

Nigeria’s youthful population and tech-savvy individuals are driving the demand for IT services. Foreign investors are recognizing the potential in areas like software development, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

This sector presents an exciting opportunity for collaboration and knowledge transfer between international companies and local talent.

6. Shares & Stocks

The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) is a vibrant platform attracting foreign investors seeking to participate in the country’s economic growth.

Investments are channelled into various sectors listed on the NSE, allowing foreigners to diversify their portfolios and tap into the potential of promising Nigerian companies.

7. Financing

The growing demand for financial services, particularly in areas like microfinance and venture capital, is attracting foreign investment in the financing sector.

Foreign investors are providing capital to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and fostering an environment for entrepreneurship to flourish.

8. Electricity

Nigeria’s ongoing quest for a stable and reliable power supply has opened doors for foreign investors in the electricity sector.

Investments are directed towards renewable energy solutions, grid modernization, and independent power generation projects. This sector holds the key to unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential.

9. Agriculture

Despite being a powerhouse in agriculture, Nigeria still relies on imports for certain food items.

This presents an opportunity for foreign investors to partner with local farmers and businesses to improve agricultural practices, and processing techniques, and establish efficient distribution channels.

10. Transportation

Nigeria’s underdeveloped transportation infrastructure is seen as a hurdle by foreign investors. However, this also presents a lucrative opportunity for investment in road construction, railway development, and the modernization of air and seaports.

Improved transportation infrastructure will not only benefit foreign businesses but also enhance the overall economic activity within Nigeria.

In conclusion…

Nigeria’s economic landscape is transforming, attracting foreign investments across diverse sectors. The government’s efforts to create a conducive business environment, coupled with the nation’s abundant resources and vast market potential, make it a compelling destination for foreign capital.

As Nigeria continues on its growth trajectory, these investments will play a crucial role in unlocking its full economic potential and propelling the nation towards a brighter future.

For more business updates, check here.

BUSINESS

7 Reasons Good Logistics Management Is Important For Every Business

Published

4 weeks ago

June 29, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Logistics management: it's important for every business | fab.ng

Imagine your business as a busy kitchen. Ingredients (raw materials) need to be ordered, stored (in the fridge), prepped (production), and cooked (assembled into a product). Then, the final dish (finished product) needs to be delivered hot and fresh (on time and in good condition) to the customer. Logistics management is like the skilled chef who coordinates everything behind the scenes.

Here’s why good logistics management is essential for your business success:

1. Boosting productivity

Good logistics help you optimize production, supply, and delivery processes. This saves money, avoids mistakes, and lets your team work more effectively. They can produce more in less time, without sacrificing quality.

Imagine your kitchen staff having all the ingredients they need, prepped and ready to go. They can whip up delicious meals quickly and efficiently.

2. Running smoothly

Logistics ensures everything runs smoothly, like a well-oiled kitchen. It plans, organizes, and controls everything that happens to your product, from getting ingredients to delivering the final dish. This avoids delays, mistakes, and grumpy customers (because their food arrived cold).

3. Happy customers

Fast and reliable deliveries are what keep customers happy these days. Imagine ordering a pizza – good logistics ensure it arrives hot and on time, making you a hero to your hungry friends. Logistics helps businesses meet these expectations by getting products to customers quickly, which builds trust and keeps them coming back for more.

Logistics management helps you meet customer expectations and build trust. They’ll keep coming back for more if they know they can rely on you to get them what they need when they need it.

4. Saving money

Every business wants to cut costs. Logistics helps by optimizing storage, transportation, and other areas. It’s like using the right amount of fridge space, finding the most efficient way to cook, and negotiating good deals with suppliers. This reduces waste, saves time, and helps your business keep more money in its pocket.

5. Standing out from the crowd

In today’s world, fast and reliable service is a must-have, not a bonus. Customers have many choices, and they’ll often go with the business that offers the quickest and easiest delivery.

Think of two restaurants: one with slow delivery and another with lightning-fast service. Good logistics give businesses an edge over competitors who can’t deliver as efficiently. By offering faster shipping or lower delivery costs, you become the more attractive option.

6. Becoming more agile

With good logistics, you can track and measure each step of the process. This gives you real data to analyze and improve your business. Think of a kitchen constantly looking for ways to improve. Maybe they can find a faster way to chop vegetables or a more efficient layout for the kitchen.

7. Real-time monitoring

Good logistics lets you track everything in real time, from storage to delivery. This allows you to make better decisions and identify areas for improvement. Imagine the kitchen manager being able to see exactly where each delivery driver is and how long it will take them to get to the customer. They can address any issues immediately and keep things running smoothly.

In short, effective logistics management is a secret ingredient for business success. It helps your business run smoothly, save money, keep customers happy, and beat the competition. By having a well-organized logistics system, your business can focus on what it does best – creating great products and providing excellent service.

By implementing effective logistics management, your business can experience many benefits, from increased productivity and happier customers to lower costs and a competitive edge. It’s a win-win for everyone.

BUSINESS

Top 5 Smartphone Brands Dominating Africa’s Market

Published

1 month ago

June 22, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Top 5 Smartphone brands dominating markets in Africa | Fab.ng

The African smartphone market is booming! Sales of smartphone brands across Africa surged in the first quarter of 2024, according to a report by Canalys. This impressive growth makes Africa the third-fastest-growing region in the world for smartphones.

Here’s a closer look at the numbers:

Big jump in shipments: Canalys reports that roughly 18.2 million smartphones were shipped to Africa in the first quarter, which is a significant 24% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
Dominant brands: Popular smartphone brands like Transsion, Samsung, and Xiaomi are leading the charge in this growth. These brands are likely popular due to a combination of factors such as brand recognition, affordability, and features that cater to the needs of African consumers.

This significant growth in the African smartphone market suggests a growing number of people across the continent are gaining access to these devices. Smartphones can be powerful tools for communication, education, and economic empowerment, and their increasing availability is a positive sign for Africa’s development.

Let’s take a look at the top 5 smartphone brands dominating Africa’s smartphone market below.

Top 5 smartphone brands in Africa (Q1 2024)

Top smartphone brands in Africa with insights into why these brands are popular and how they’re competing in the market:

1. Transsion (Tecno, Infinix, Itel):

Transsion reigns in Africa, capturing over half the market share (52%), with 9.5 million units shipped in Q1 2024. This dominance extends to key markets like Nigeria (67%) and Kenya (48%).

Transsion’s success can be attributed to its strategic brand portfolio. They offer a range of smartphones under the Tecno, Infinix, and Itel brands, catering to different price points and customer preferences. This allows them to tap into a wider consumer base. Also, it encompasses budget-conscious buyers seeking affordable options alongside those seeking more feature-rich devices.

Beyond leading markets, Transsion has established a presence in other African countries like Egypt (11%), South Africa (15%), Morocco (24%), and Algeria (19%). This solidifies their position as a major player across the continent.

2. Samsung

Smartphone brands dominating markets in Africa | Fab.ng

While Samsung holds the top spot globally with a whopping 60 million units shipped, its presence in Africa (21% market share) falls behind Transsion. However, Samsung remains a leader in specific regions, dominating markets like Egypt (29%), South Africa (46%), and Morocco (39%).

Despite facing stiff competition, Samsung maintains a presence in other African countries like Kenya (31%), Nigeria (6%), and Algeria (23%). This suggests Samsung is strategically focusing on maintaining its brand recognition and customer base in these markets.

3. Xiaomi

Smartphone brands dominating markets in Africa | Fab.ng

Xiaomi is a brand on the rise in Africa. They currently lead the Algerian market with a 32% share and have a presence in other countries like Egypt (20%), Nigeria (19%), Kenya (8%), South Africa (7%), and Morocco (26%).

Xiaomi’s growth is evident in their increased market share from 6% to 11% in Q1 2024. This surge can likely be attributed to their aggressive expansion strategy. It involves offering competitive features at attractive prices. By focusing on value for money, Xiaomi is attracting a growing number of African consumers.

4. OPPO

OPPO Nigeria | Fab.ng

OPPO is a relatively new entrant in the African smartphone market, having established a presence in Egypt (15%), Algeria (1%), and Kenya (5%) in Q1 2024.

Despite their early efforts, OPPO faces intense competition from established brands. They shipped 600,000 units in Q1 2024, securing a 3% market share. To gain a stronger foothold, OPPO will need to develop targeted strategies to appeal to African consumers and stand out in a crowded market.

5. HMD Global (Nokia)

HMD Global, the brand behind Nokia phones, manages to cling to a spot in the top 5 with a minor presence in Nigeria (1%) and Kenya (3%).

Nokia’s legacy as a trusted brand might help them retain some customers. However, the rapidly evolving smartphone market demands innovation and adaptation. HMD Global will need to up their game to compete effectively with the aggressive strategies of other brands.

The dominance of Transsion and the strong showing of Xiaomi highlight the growing importance of offering budget-friendly smartphones with good features to cater to the African market.

Samsung, with its global brand recognition, remains a major player. Moreso, it will need to adapt its strategies to maintain its position.

As the African smartphone market continues to flourish, it will be interesting to see how these brands, along with others, innovate and compete to win over the hearts (and wallets) of African consumers.

For more articles, check here.