South Africa has secured a $1 billion loan from the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB) aimed at upgrading infrastructure across its eight metropolitan areas. This funding is part of the NDB's efforts to support development projects in member countries.

The New Development Bank has approved a US$1 billion loan aimed at infrastructure modernization in South Africa, as announced during a meeting in Shanghai. Additionally, the Board of Directors welcomed Uzbekistan as a new member of the bank.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has emphasized the importance for African nations to enhance domestic revenue generation and decrease reliance on foreign aid. This stance was presented by Finance Minister Taiwo Oyedele, who stated that sustainable development cannot be achieved solely through external assistance. The remarks were made during a recent address to African leaders.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has expressed support for a proposed Regional Farm Service Centre Initiative aimed at tackling issues in Uganda's agricultural sector, particularly the problem of counterfeit agro inputs. This announcement was made during a meeting with a South African delegation led by Mr. Andile Ramaphosa at State Lodge, Nakasero, where a tripartite collaboration involving Namunkekera Farm Service Centre and the National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB) was discussed.

A new high-capacity fiber corridor connecting Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and South Africa has been activated, marking the first phase of the project. This initiative is a result of a public-private partnership aimed at enhancing telecommunications infrastructure in the region.

Uganda is spearheading the CONNECT-VAS project, which aims to enhance vaccine research and manufacturing across four African countries. The initiative seeks to build stronger vaccine systems and reduce reliance on imports. This was discussed during an inception meeting held in Kampala on June 11, attended by scientists, policymakers, regulators, and development partners.