Sub-Saharan Africa’s tech regulatory landscape experienced a transformative fortnight in early July 2025, with governments across the continent advancing comprehensive policies that will define the region’s digital economy for the next decade. Nigeria’s Open Banking framework, Ghana’s crypto exchange registration mandate, and Uganda’s successful enforcement action against Google signal a new era of regulatory sophistication.
These developments reflect Africa’s evolution from reactive to proactive digital governance, establishing clear frameworks before markets fully mature rather than playing catch-up. With Smart Africa’s 40-nation coalition convening 11 member states to draft cross-border data exchange guidelines and 5G expansion accelerating across 27 countries, the continent is building the legal and technical infrastructure necessary for a truly integrated digital single market by 2030.

Kenya’s digital economy is growing at 9.2% annually, but can its regulatory system keep pace? Our latest Q1–Q2 2025 update explores the critical shifts shaping e-commerce, fintech, e-health, and energy. From sweeping tax reforms to new digital health strategies, this report offers a timely analysis of how policy is redefining innovation, investment, and inclusion across the country.

The FATF’s revisions to Recommendation 16 address the increasing AML/CFT and fraud activities in the transfer and cross-border payments ecosystem. These updates are aimed at enhancing transparency, traceability, and compliance for payment providers, including mobile money operators and fintechs, aligning travel rules with the principle of ‘same activity, same risk, same rules.’ While FATF has tried to address some of the challenges, the new revisions still impact financial inclusion and increase implementation and compliance costs for fintechs operating in the ecosystem.

On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will end support for Windows 10, impacting users worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where adoption is high. With cybersecurity risks rising and many existing devices incompatible with Windows 11, LMICs face affordability and digital infrastructure challenges. The Extended Security Updates (ESUs) offer limited protection but may be cost-prohibitive for many organizations. Strategies such as adopting open-source alternatives, improving digital literacy, and enhancing e-waste management are essential for a sustainable transition, ensuring no users are left behind.

On February 15th, Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Sam George, launched an inter-agency committee to assess data pricing models, aiming to lower costs and enhance internet accessibility. Ghana ranks 33rd globally for mobile data affordability, with 1GB priced at $0.40. The committee includes diverse stakeholders but lacks consumer representation. Addressing mobile data pricing requires sustainable models that balance affordability and service provider viability. Global examples from India’s market disruption and South Africa’s government interventions offer insights. Recommendations include expanding stakeholder engagement, inclusive regulatory frameworks, and considering diverse consumer needs, underpinning Ghana’s commitment to digital transformation and affordability.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved a 50% increase in telecommunications tariffs, a decision that is significantly impacting the sector. While this adjustment has drawn concerns from consumer groups, it also presents telecom operators with an opportunity to enhance profitability and drive necessary infrastructure investments. At Nexus Tech, we are closely monitoring these developments and their implications for the industry. We are committed to providing valuable insights to help our clients navigate this regulatory shift, optimize their strategies, and effectively respond to the evolving market dynamics.

The Mission 300 initiative aims to connect 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030, backed by over $50 billion in pledges. This presents significant opportunities for businesses in the energy sector, particularly in renewable energy and infrastructure. However, as governments implement reforms to improve utility efficiency and energy access, businesses will need to navigate evolving regulations around tariffs, power generation, and private sector partnerships. Mission 300 will drive both innovation and competition, requiring collaboration between businesses and regulators to build a sustainable energy ecosystem that supports Africa’s growth.

African regulators are moving swiftly to match the rapid evolution of digital financial services (DFS), shaping policies around cryptocurrencies, stablecoins, data security, and cross-border payment systems. These changes aim to maintain consumer trust, protect user data, and foster economic growth across the continent. Yet, limited infrastructure, fragmented regulations, and increasing cybersecurity threats pose ongoing challenges. For businesses and consumers alike, staying informed of these regulatory developments is crucial to unlocking the potential of DFS for greater financial inclusion, regional integration, and sustainable development in Africa.