NEWS Spiro starts operations in Ogun State Spiro, a large electric vehicle (EV) player in Africa, has launched operations in Ogun State, Nigeria. With more than 18,000 electric motorbikes already deployed across sub-Saharan Africa, Spiro’s expansion into the West African country will see its presence in up to eight of Nigeria’s manor provinces as part of a dedicated effort to electrify the nation’s mobility. In Nigeria, Spiro has already announced partnerships with Max, Dot, and Onocon, who share the company’s vision. Spiro is also active in Togo, Benin, Kenya, Rwanda, Ghana and Uganda. The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved a US$135mn package to the Union of the Comoros in East Africa. The significant funding (provided by the African Development Fund and the Transition Support Facility) will support the Maritime Corridor and Regional Trade Facilitation Project (PCMFCR), and help to extend and modernise two ports on the island as well as establish a special economic zone. With around 90% of freight to and between the three islands transported by sea, the upgrades to the ports is thought to be essential to its continued economic development. Funding for Comoros port development The port of Moroni will be expanded by a new QUOTES “The pivotal role of free zones in catalysing and sustaining economic growth in Nigeria cannot be overemphasised. In this digital age, we must integrate technology-focused businesses to attract investments and showcase our domestic talents under a liberal regulatory framework.” Wale Edun Nigeria Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Image credits: DiFZIN, Africonology, SATMC, Ethiopian Airlines 6 SEPTEMBER 2024 | www.africanreview.com