A sharp reversal in Africa’s currency markets occurred in September, with 12 of 17 tracked currencies weakening against the US dollar, compared to just four in August. This shift was driven by a strengthening dollar and a 9 percent rise in Brent crude oil prices, which hit $103.50 per barrel by month-end amid Middle East geopolitical tensions. While higher energy costs strained import-dependent economies, the Nigerian naira proved resilient, bucking the trend with a 0.25 percent gain supported by robust foreign exchange reserves exceeding $54 billion and strong remittances. Analysts warn that despite earlier gains, many African currencies remain vulnerable to global external shocks.