Africa's supply chains are undergoing a fundamental transformation: from efficiency-driven models toward adaptive systems built for resilience in an increasingly uncertain global economy. The key message of this edition is simple: resilient supply chains are not those that avoid disruption, but those that can adapt, reorganise, innovate, and recover when disruption occurs. The main thematic areas discussed are the following: 1) Resilience through adaptation: How diversification, localisation, alternative sourcing, and flexible logistics are strengthening African supply chains; 2) Local capabilities as strategic assets: Lessons from Burundi’s agricultural sourcing and Egypt’s recycling ecosystem show how existing capabilities can reduce import dependence and strengthen industrial resilience; 3) AI, logistics & regional integration: How artificial intelligence, multimodal transport, and emerging logistics hubs are reshaping African supply chains, and what infrastructure is needed to unlock their potential; 4) From analysis to action: Practical insights for policymakers, businesses, investors, researchers, and supply-chain professionals seeking to build more resilient, competitive, and future-ready African supply chains. The August Bulletin brings together expert analysis, real-world cases, and strategic perspectives on the forces reshaping Africa’s supply chains and energy systems.

The future of African integration will be determined as much by digital connectivity as by physical connectivity. An East Africa Community (EAC) Cross-Border Digital Trade peer learning initiative held in Kigali, Rwanda, brought together stakeholders from the EAC Secretariat, the International Trade Centre (ITC), government agencies and the private sector from 6 partner states, presenting evidence that regional integration is entering a new phase, where reducing trade costs increasingly depends on the interoperability of digital systems rather than simply building roads, ports, or border posts. Digital trade is fundamentally a coordination challenge. Most EAC Partner States have already developed important digital solutions(National Single Windows, customs automation systems, electronic certificates, e-payment systems and trade portals). However, these systems largely operate as national islands of connectivity. The real gains will come only when they will communicate seamlessly across borders through common standards, interoperable legal frameworks, and institutional cooperation. Read more on Trade Finance Global.