Government

Egyptian retail chains will launch dedicated Ahlan Ramadan sections across all branches next week, following a government agreement with food producers to freeze or lower commodity prices, Minister of Supply and Internal Trade Sherif Farouk said on Tuesday. The move aims to ensure market stability ahead of the holy month after an extensive meeting with trade federations.

February 03, 2026 Reported by AI

Researchers and scientists from various key sectors in Kenya are urging the government to allocate at least 2% of the Gross Domestic Product annually for research, innovation, and development. This would be channeled through the National Research Fund, aiming to boost funding from Sh120 billion to Sh300 billion to address challenges like agriculture and climate change. The proposal emerged during a national conference held in Nairobi.

After three months of tense negotiations, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu passed the 2026 budget by conceding several points to the socialists, including suspending the 2023 retirement reform. This adoption, secured via article 49.3, avoids a controversial tax but raises economic concerns for the French. The concessions will come at a cost to businesses and the country's economy.

February 01, 2026 Reported by AI

President William Ruto and several cabinet secretaries have announced new appointments and reappointments to various state boards and committees. The moves, detailed in a January 30 gazette notice, aim to strengthen leadership in key government institutions. Most terms last three years, effective from dates including February 4.

Colombia's Constitutional Court provisionally suspended Decree 1390 of December 22, 2025, which declared an Economic and Social Emergency. President Gustavo Petro criticized the decision as a rupture of the constitutional order and stated that the cost of the debt will not fall on the working class. The government plans to present new tax laws to address the deficit.

January 30, 2026 Reported by AI

Malacañang has clarified there is no immediate cabinet revamp under President Marcos, but the president is reviewing the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) secretary position. This follows reports of a potential leadership change for Environment Secretary Raphael Lotilla. The palace also plans to submit names to the Commission on Appointments soon to reduce acting officials.