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TECNO Glory Night Awards, Co-Hosted with TikTok Live and Confederation of African Football (CAF), Celebrated Africa’s Top Influencers and the “Power Your Moment” Spirit...
TECNO Glory Night Awards (www.TECNO-Mobile.in), jointly organized with TikTok Live and CAF, celebrated the creativity of pan-African KOLs powered by TECNO AI. With the launch of TECNO's "Power Your Moment" campaign during AFCON, this theme has been widely recognized by KOLs, stimulating the creation of a large amount of creative content and fully showcasing their power moments in everyone's lives.
As TECNO elevates its long-standing relationship with AFCON into its new title as the Official Global Partner, the brand gathered Africa's leading digital voices for a landmark celebration in Morocco. This signature event spotlighted the influencers whose creativity, authenticity, and cultural impact embody the spirit of "Power Your Moment."
The ceremony was conceived as a tribute to the individuals who, through their creativity, narrative power, and cultural impact, are shaping the future of digital expression across Africa. Influencers from more than twenty countries attended the evening, joined by AFCON football legends, media partners, and TECNO executives. Together, they formed a rare cross-section of talent, influence, and creative leadership.
Throughout the evening, TECNO presented five major awards, each recognizing a unique dimension of creative excellence. The award winners are as follows:
The Moment Excellence Award
Presented to influencers who best captured the emotional soul of "Power Your Moment," delivering stories filled with depth, authenticity, and resonance. These winners stood out through their compelling narratives that deeply resonated with audiences across Africa. Their content showcased authentic moments of triumph and emotion, creating powerful connections that exemplified what it means to truly "Power Your Moment." Through their creative storytelling and genuine engagement, they captured hearts and inspired communities, earning recognition for their ability to transform everyday experiences into memorable digital moments.
Winners:
Nigeria: @ ultimatekombo2
Tanzania: @ eng_makelele
Morocco: @ hajar_arssalanee
"This award represents every creator across Africa who believes their story matters," said @ ultimatekombo2 from Nigeria. "TECNO has given us the tools and platform to turn our everyday moments into something powerful. This recognition inspires me to continue creating content that resonates with our communities and showcases the beauty of our shared experiences."
The Moment King/Queen Award
Celebrating the influencers whose outstanding data performance, interactions, views, and follower growth, redefined true influence during the campaign. These creators dominated the digital landscape with content that not only captured attention but sustained engagement at remarkable levels. Their ability to consistently connect with massive audiences while driving meaningful interactions demonstrated their mastery of the platform and their genuine influence within their communities.
Winners:
Nigeria: @ liquorose_
Ivory Coast: @ MIMImimitiktok0101
Senegal: @ fallu_etsesvideos
The Creative Spark Award
Recognizing influencers who consistently push the boundaries of creativity, finding novelty in the ordinary and presenting imaginative, breakthrough content. These winners transformed simple concepts into extraordinary experiences through innovative approaches and fresh perspectives. Their work challenged conventions and inspired others to see familiar moments through new creative lenses, proving that innovation thrives when imagination meets authentic expression.
Winners:
Mali: @ sagaba1
Kenya: @ therealchiche
Morocco: @ brahimlogia
@ therealchiche from Kenya expressed her excitement: "Winning the Creative Spark Award pushes me to keep innovating and breaking boundaries. The #MyPowerMoment campaign challenged us to see creativity in new ways, and I'm honored that my vision connected with audiences across the continent. This is just the beginning of what African creators can achieve."
The Visual Master Award
Awarded to influencers whose works demonstrated exceptional visual artistry, mastery of composition, color, and light, turning every frame into an aesthetic experience. These creators elevated mobile photography and videography to an art form, crafting visually stunning content that captivated audiences. Their technical excellence combined with artistic vision resulted in content that didn't just tell stories but created immersive visual journeys.
Winners:
Egypt: @ ali_hustler
Nigeria: @ jennifrank29
Cameroon: @ mayole_francine
The TECNO Partner Award
A tribute to long-term creator partners who deeply align with TECNO's brand philosophy and especially contribute to the communication of TECNO AI. They are the true companions of the brand, resonating with TECNO's vision of blending technology with human inspiration. These partners have consistently demonstrated their commitment to showcasing how TECNO's innovative AI technology empowers creators to unlock their full potential and share their unique moments with the world.
Winners:
Uganda: @ solo.md
Senegal: @ cheikhetaltesse
Nigeria: @ izziboye
"Being recognized as a TECNO Partner means everything to me," shared @ solo.md from Uganda. "TECNO AI has transformed how I create content and connect with my audience. This partnership goes beyond technology, it's about believing in African voices and giving us the resources to amplify our messages. I'm proud to represent this vision and excited for what we'll build together."
The winners were selected through the #MyPowerMoment campaign, a continent-wide call for entries that invited creators to submit original photo or video content inspired by one of four themes: Power your Glory, Power your Rise, Power your Joy and Power your Creativity. Submissions captured moments of personal transformation, pure happiness, or imagination-driven expression, reflecting the diversity of stories that define African digital culture today.
The TECNO Glory Night Awards not only celebrated achievement, they reaffirmed the brand's commitment to empowering Africa's creative ecosystem. By bringing together influencers from across the continent at AFCON, TECNO strengthens the bridge between sport, technology, and culture.
The brand's investment in the creator community aligns with its ambition to foster deeper integration between its technology offerings and the cultural forces shaping African markets. This celebration is part of a wider effort to strengthen TECNO's association with AFCON, engage creators, and elevate KOL-driven campaigns through emotionally resonant content.
As the evening concluded, the atmosphere reflected a sense of collective pride, not only for the winners but for the continent's creative momentum. The Glory Night Awards marked a defining moment for Africa's next generation of storytellers, who now carry their trophies as symbols of recognition, visibility, and their rising role in shaping Africa's digital narrative.
The night may have ended, but the moments created will continue to shine, because with TECNO, every moment has the power to become extraordinary.
Along with KOL Night Awards, TECNO curated an exclusive product experience zone: brand guides walked Joeboy through its latest devices, spotlighting AI-driven photography features tailored for content creators—aligning with the "Power Your Moment" ethos. The demo let the artist test real-time editing tools, streamlining on-the-go creative workflows.
A highlight was the 3D photo station with TECNO AI : KOLs posed with the device, which offers boosted low-light performance and portrait optimization—key capabilities to elevate their visual content. Many snapped behind-the-scenes shots instantly, turning the experience into shareable moments that mirrored the event's festive energy.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of TECNO Mobile.About TECNO:
TECNO is an innovative, AI-driven technology brand operating in more than 70 countries across five continents. Committed to transforming the digital experience in emerging markets, the brand combines contemporary design, cutting-edge technology, and artificial intelligence. Today, TECNO offers a comprehensive AI-powered ecosystem, including smartphones, wearables, laptops, tablets, intelligent gaming devices, the HiOS operating system, and smart home solutions. Guided by its “Stop At Nothing” philosophy, TECNO continues to lead the adoption of advanced technologies and encourages individuals to relentlessly pursue the best version of themselves.
Egypt: Declining Funding Undermines Education, Health Care
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The Egyptian government has severely undermined the rights to education and health care by failing to allocate sufficient spending, falling short of constitutional obligations and international benchmarks, Human Rights Watch said today. It is failing to ensure free primary education for every child and quality health care accessible to all.
Inadequate funding has contributed to severe shortages and high costs. Egypt has a shortage of hundreds of thousands of classrooms and teachers while the health care system suffers from low salaries, an inadequate doctor-to-population ratio, and a lack of 75,000 nurses. Families pay school fees and out-of-pocket costs, a majority of health care expenses are paid out of pocket, and doctors are personally paying for essential hospital supplies.
“The Egyptian government has failed for years to adequately ensure the rights of education and health for everyone, as demonstrated by its chronic underfunding,” said Amr Magdi, senior Middle East and North Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch. “The lack of adequate funding for health and education demonstrates the government's deep indifference toward its citizens' rights.”
Human Rights Watch analysis found that, over the past five years, education spending in Egypt has consistently decreased in inflation-adjusted terms and as a percentage of total government expenditure and Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Health care spending has mostly decreased in inflation-adjusted terms but fluctuated as a percentage of total expenditure and GDP.
In fiscal year 2025-26, which began July 1, 2025, the government proposed and parliament approved an education budget of 315 billion Egyptian pounds (about US$6.3 billion), equivalent to 1.5 percent of Egypt's GDP and about 4.7 percent of government expenditure. Human Rights Watch analysis found that this is the lowest percentage of the budget allocated for education since at least 2019. In inflation-adjusted terms, Human Rights Watch found that spending on education decreased 10 percent from 2024/25 and is 39 percent lower than in 2013/14 or 2014/15, when President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi came to power.
Egypt's 2014 Constitution requires the government to spend no less than 6 percent of GDP on education. Prevailing international benchmarks recommend 4 to 6 percent of GDP and at least 15 to 20 percent of public expenditure. Human Rights Watch's calculation for 2025-26 spending as a percent of GDP would place Egypt in the 12th percentile of all lower middle-income countries, spending less than 88 percent of similarly situated countries.
The current year's health budget of 245 billion pounds (about $4.9 billion) is equivalent to just 1.1 percent of Egypt's GPD and 3.6 percent of total government expenditure. Human Rights Watch found that the budgets from 2021/22 to 2025/26 fluctuated between 1 and 1.4 percent of GDP, never reaching even half the minimum 3 percent the constitution requires.
After adjusting for inflation, health spending in 2025/26 is only 2 percent higher than the prior year and remains 4 percent lower than in 2022/23. When taking population growth into account, per person spending is flat over the last three years.
Egypt's health spending is also significantly below international benchmarks. The Abuja Declaration of 2001, which Egypt signed, included a pledge to allocate 15 percent of government expenditure to health. The World Health Organization (WHO) has estimatedthat providing universal health coverage, an important element of the right to health, generally requires governments to spend at least 5 to 6 percent of their GDP on health care, four to five times Egypt's current allocation. Egypt adopted a landmark Universal Health Insurance Lawin 2018, which aims to achieve full coverage by 2030.
As in prior years, the government falsely claimed that its 2025/26 budget met constitutional spending minimums for health and education by including extraneous budget lines, such as debt servicing, in its calculations. In 2022, Egypt spent more than twice as much servicing its external public debt per capita than it spent on health care.
Human Rights Watch has previously found that Egypt's declining funding is severely undermining education, raising significant human rights concerns. The government has acknowledged shortages of hundreds of thousands of teachers and classrooms. Public schools charge nominal fees, waived for some low income students, violating Egypt's obligation under the constitution and international human rights law to provide free primary education.
In 2019, families with children in school spent an average of 10.4 percent of their income on school-related costs. Due to the poor quality of chronically underfunded public education, many higher-income parents pay for private lessons and tutoring, worsening wealth-based inequality.
Egypt's underfunded health care system similarly faces significant challenges and the country's declining trends on several important health care indicators raise significant concerns for the right to health.
The health care system suffers chronic and severe shortages of resources. Doctors have reported paying out of pocket for essential hospital supplies like gloves and sutures. President Sisi in recent years acknowledged that salaries for doctors at public health care facilities, set by the government, are inadequate to retain qualified staff, citing a lack of resources.
Low public health care funding contributes to the growing number of nurses and doctors leaving the country, further undermining the availability of health care services. According to the Doctors' Syndicate, 11,536 doctors resigned from working in the public sector between 2019 and March 2022. Approximately 7,000 Egyptian doctors emigrated to work abroad in 2023 alone.
Egypt's doctor-to-population ratio was 6.71 for every 10,000 people in 2020, well below the WHO's minimum recommendation of 10. An independent 2024 study of Egyptian doctors working abroad found that low remuneration, poor working conditions, and a lack of medical equipment and supplies pushed them to leave. Egypt also has a shortage of 75,000 nurses, according to the head of the Nursing Syndicate.
The WHO estimated that more than 57 percent of health care expenses in Egypt were paid out of pocket in 2023. Out-of-pocket costs worsen health care inequalities by creating barriers to accessing health care based on the ability to pay. In 2024, President Sisi ratified law 87 on health facilities, which allows private investors to manage and operate public hospitals, a form of privatization, without imposing regulations to ensure universal access to these hospitals, such as by setting price caps.
Human Rights Watch wrote to the Egyptian ministries of education and health on December 22, 2025, to share its findings but did not receive a response.
The rights to education and health care are enshrined in international law, including in the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, all of which Egypt has ratified.
Egypt has an obligation to take deliberate, concrete, and targeted steps to the maximum of its available resources to fulfil economic, social, and cultural rights. Egypt should guarantee free primary education and should also ensure high-quality health care is universally accessible for all, regardless of one's ability to pay.
Deliberate retrogressive measures, such as Egypt's reduction in spending on key elements affecting the rights of education and health care, are presumptively a violation of its obligations unless fully justified. Under international law, Egypt also has an obligation to protect the right to health by ensuring that privatization in the health sector does not pose threats to the availability, accessibility, acceptability, and quality of health care.
“By systematically failing to meet constitutional spending requirements for education and health for many years, the government is neglecting the very sectors that would enable citizens to live with dignity and for the economy to thrive,” Magdi said. “This years-long failure shows that the government's talk of social and economic rights is essentially lip service.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Human Rights Watch (HRW).APO Group Congratulates Clients and Partners Named on New African’s 100 Most Influential Africans List
APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading multi-award-winning, pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, congratulates its clients and partners recognised by New African magazine on the 2025 “100 Most Influential Africans” list, including Afreximbank, the African Development Bank (AfDB), Africa Finance Corporation, the Roman Catholic Church, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), the African Energy Chamber, the Merck Foundation, and the UN Global Compact, as well as all honourees recognised for their leadership and impact on Africa's progress.
The New African list serves as a leading benchmark of influence across the continent, highlighting individuals and institutions whose work significantly contributes to Africa's economic growth, social development, and global standing.
APO Group celebrates the accomplishments of its clients and partners, whose leadership, innovation, and resilience continue to drive Africa's advancement across finance, energy, healthcare, public health, faith-based leadership, and international cooperation.
In finance and development, Dr. George Elombi, President and Chairman of Afreximbank, and Prof. Benedict Oramah, whose decade-long tenure concluded in October 2025, are recognised for their leadership in strengthening intra-African trade and economic resilience. Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), is honoured for his role in financing development and promoting inclusive and sustainable growth across the continent. Samaila Zubairu, President and Chief Executive Officer of Africa Finance Corporation, is noted for his contribution to Africa's infrastructure development and economic transformation.
In the business category, NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, is recognised for advancing Africa's energy agenda and championing pragmatic, Africa-led energy solutions. Dr. Rasha Kelej, Chief Executive Officer of the Merck Foundation, is honoured for her transformative leadership in expanding healthcare access, education, and medical capacity building across Africa.
Faith-based leadership is also recognised, with the Head of the Roman Catholic Church in Africa, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, acknowledged through its institutional leadership for its long-standing contribution to education, healthcare delivery, peacebuilding, and community support across the continent.
In the public health category, Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), is recognised for his decisive leadership in strengthening Africa's health security architecture. Under his stewardship, Africa CDC has enhanced epidemic preparedness, coordinated continental responses to public health emergencies, and reinforced Africa's capacity to respond to an era increasingly shaped by complex and persistent health threats.
In the public and international cooperation category, Sanda Ojiambo, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chief Executive Officer of the UN Global Compact, is recognised for advancing sustainable development, responsible business practices, and global partnerships aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), Founder and Chairman of APO Group, who was himself named on the New African “100 Most Influential Africans” list in both 2024 and 2025, said:
“We are proud to see our clients and partners recognised for their impact across business, finance, healthcare, faith-based institutions, public health, and international cooperation. APO Group is honoured to serve as a communications partner to organisations and leaders driving meaningful change across the continent, ensuring their voices are heard and their contributions recognised worldwide.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.Media contact:
marie@apo-opa.com
About APO Group:
Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) is the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact both on the continent and globally.
Our commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including a PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award and multiple PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards. In 2023, we were named the Leading Public Relations Firm Africa and the Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa in the World Business Outlook Awards, and the Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy of the Year South Africa in 2024 in the same awards. In 2025, Brands Review Magazine acknowledged us as the Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa for the second consecutive year. They also named us the Best PR Agency and the Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa in 2024. Additionally, in 2025, we were honoured with the Gold distinction for Best PR Campaign and Bronze in the Special Event category at the Davos Communications Awards.
APO Group's esteemed clientele, which includes global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, the UNDP, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa's Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape. With a multicultural team across Africa, we offer unmatched, truly pan-African insights, expertise, and reach across the continent. APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences.
Joint Statement between the African Union Commission and the United Arab Emirates
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On 6 January 2026, the African Union Commission (AUC) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) held a high-level meeting in Addis Ababa between H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the AUC, and H.E. Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of State.
The meeting built on the first round of political consultations held in Abu Dhabi on 13 September 2025, within the framework of the 2019 Memorandum of Understanding, and reaffirmed the shared commitment of both sides to further strengthening the UAE–AU partnership.
Both sides reviewed progress achieved since the inaugural consultations, exchanged views on priority areas of cooperation, and reaffirmed their commitment to sustained political dialogue.
They converged on the centrality of Agenda 2063, in particular the flagship initiative “Silencing the Guns by 2030,” as well as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), underscoring the mutually reinforcing relationship between peace, security, trade and development. In this regard, they agreed to intensify cooperation in support of these strategic priorities, recognizing that durable peace underpins economic integration, while expanded trade and investment contribute to stability, resilience and sustainable development in Africa.
Both sides welcomed the UAE's launch of the USD 1 billion “AI for Development” initiative, announced at the G20 Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg in November 2025, and affirmed its potential to support Africa's development priorities through innovation and digital transformation.
The Chairperson and the Minister exchanged views on peace and security dynamics in the Horn of Africa, underscoring the close interdependence between stability in the Horn of Africa and security in the Arabian Gulf, including with regard to maritime security and regional prosperity.
On Sudan, both sides underscored the need for an immediate unconditional humanitarian truce, a permanent ceasefire, unhindered humanitarian access throughout Sudan, accountability for violations of international humanitarian law, and establishing an independent civilian-led government reflecting the aspirations of the Sudanese people.
Both sides recalled the statement issued jointly by the African Union Commission and IGAD on 14 September 2025, welcoming the QUAD 12 September 2025 Joint Statement. They further recalled the High-Level Humanitarian Conference convened on the margins of the AU Summit in February 2025, welcomed regional and international efforts to address the humanitarian crisis, and condemned atrocities committed against civilians by the warring parties. They also reaffirmed support for Sudan's territorial integrity, and unity, and the imperative of a peaceful settlement.
On Somalia, both sides reaffirmed their support for Somalia's sovereignty, territorial integrity, security and stability.
Both sides reaffirmed that the occupation of the three islands of the United Arab Emirates (Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa) by Iran constitutes a violation of the sovereignty of the UAE and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations.
They reiterated their support for the UAE's call for a peaceful resolution of the dispute on the three islands, in accordance with international law, including through bilateral negotiations or the International Court of Justice.
Against the backdrop of the 2026 AU theme on water and sanitation, both sides highlighted the 2026 United Nations Water Conference, to be co-hosted by the UAE and the Republic of Senegal, as a key opportunity to advance global action on water resilience. They agreed to cooperate closely, towards tangible, action-oriented deliverables and measurable impact across Africa, through initiatives, such as the Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening AUC–UAE cooperation across shared priorities in support of peace, stability and sustainable development.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Arab Emirates, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) and Africa’s Gas Future: A Flexible Solution for Accelerated Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Development
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Floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) is rapidly emerging as a cornerstone of Africa's gas development strategy, as the continent prepares for a sharp rise in demand and seeks faster, more resilient pathways to market. According to the African Energy Chamber's (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.Org) State of African Energy 2026 Outlook, Africa's natural gas demand is projected to increase by 60% by 2050, underscoring the urgency of bringing new supply online efficiently and at scale. At the same time, Africa already hosts the highest concentration of FLNG infrastructure globally, positioning the continent as a natural testbed for floating solutions that monetize offshore resources while mitigating above-ground risks.
Accelerated FLNG Deployment
Early FLNG successes are already reshaping development models across the continent. Cameroon's Hilli Episeyo FLNG project stands as Africa's first operational FLNG facility and a global reference point. Brought online in record time, the project demonstrated how FLNG can rapidly unlock gas exports from relatively modest reserves. Since then, Africa's FLNG market has expanded, with several projects now under development or in operation.
On the maritime border of Senegal and Mauritania, the Gimi FLNG vessel – situated at the bp-led Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG development and operated by Golar LNG – reached its commercial operations date in 2025. As the first FLNG unit deployed in the MSGBC region, the vessel will monetize up to 15 trillion cubic feet of gas through a 20-year Lease and Operate Agreement.
In Gabon, Perenco is developing the Cap Lopez FLNG project with a capacity of 700,000 tons per year, starting in 2026, with the unit being built by Dixstone. Offshore Nigeria, UTM Offshore is developing an FLNG facility at the deepwater Yoho field, a $5 billion project progressing toward FID. As Africa positions itself for the next phase of gas-led growth, FLNG stands out as a practical, future-focused solution – one that aligns technical innovation with the continent's urgent development needs and long-term energy ambitions.
Implications for the Sector
One of FLNG's most compelling advantages is scalability. Unlike onshore LNG developments, which require extensive land acquisition, supporting infrastructure and long construction timelines, FLNG facilities can be deployed in phases and scaled according to reservoir performance and market demand. This modular approach reduces upfront capital requirements and allows producers to accelerate first gas while preserving optionality for expansion. The Congo LNG project illustrates this approach: following phase one operations in 2023, operator Eni moved quickly toward phase two, bringing production online in 2025 – just 35 months after construction began and six months ahead of schedule. With first exports set for 2026, the project demonstrates how FLNG can be developed at speed and scale.
FLNG also helps mitigate above-ground risks – an issue shaping gas development strategies across Africa. Mozambique offers a clear example. Despite hosting some of the world's largest gas discoveries, security challenges in Cabo Delgado caused delays and force majeure declarations on major onshore LNG projects. Offshore FLNG developments, however, have proven more resilient. Eni brought the Coral Sul FLNG project online in 2022, with the Coral Norte FLNG project reaching a $7.2 billion FID in 2025. While projects such as Mozambique LNG and Rovuma LNG faced delays, Coral utilized FLNG to reduce exposure to onshore security threats and logistical bottlenecks, enabling continued operations even in complex environments.
Making Energy Poverty History Through Gas
Beyond speed and resilience, FLNG could become a catalyst for Africa's broader economic development. By reducing capital intensity and shortening development timelines, FLNG improves project bankability and attracts a wider pool of investors. It also supports gas-to-power strategies, petrochemical development and regional energy security by enabling monetization of gas that might otherwise remain stranded for years.
However, FLNG is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Successful deployment requires robust regulatory frameworks, clear fiscal terms and strong collaboration between governments, operators and financiers. When aligned with national gas master plans and long-term industrial strategies, FLNG can serve as a powerful bridge between exploration success and sustainable economic impact.
These discussions will be central at African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, where governments and industry leaders will explore how floating solutions can unlock Africa's vast gas potential while managing risk and accelerating timelines. AEW continues to provide a critical platform for sharing lessons learned, advancing project dialogue and mobilizing capital into innovative LNG developments.
“FLNG is changing the game for African gas producers. It allows countries to monetize resources faster, reduce exposure to security and infrastructure risks, and generate revenues that can be reinvested into broader development. When deployed strategically, FLNG can help Africa turn gas discoveries into energy security, industrial growth and real economic transformation,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.Happy New Year Message from Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa
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Happy New Year Message from Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.Kenya Engineer Releases Volume 54, Issue 1 (January–February 2026), Now in Circulation
Kenya Engineer Magazine (www.KenyaEngineer.co.ke) has released the January–February 2026 issue, marking the first issue of Volume 54 and reaffirming the publication's long-standing role as a trusted platform for engineering insight in Kenya, East Africa, and beyond.
For more than five decades, Kenya Engineer has documented the evolution of engineering practice, industry, and policy across the region. The latest issue is published at a time when engineering is increasingly central to energy transition, industrial growth, infrastructure development, and sustainability, and it continues the magazine's commitment to professionally grounded, context-driven content.
Focus of the January–February 2026 Issue
The new issue brings together analysis, interviews, and features examining key developments shaping the engineering and industrial landscape, including:
- Power and energy sector developments and their implications for industry
- Grid stability, transmission, and infrastructure readiness
- Manufacturing and industrialisation in Kenya and across Africa
- Engineering leadership, policy alignment, and skills development
- Emerging trends in sustainability and electric mobility
Rather than reporting events in isolation, the issue places emphasis on context, relevance, and long-term implications, offering insight that remains valuable to professionals, institutions, and decision-makers beyond the news cycle.
A Trusted Platform for the Engineering Ecosystem
Kenya Engineer continues to serve a diverse readership that includes practicing engineers, technical managers, utilities, manufacturers, EPC firms, regulators, policymakers, and academic institutions. Its positioning as a credible, independent platform has made it a reference point for industry dialogue and professional reflection across the region.
As engineering challenges grow more complex and interconnected, the publication remains focused on supporting informed discussion that links engineering practice, industry needs, and development priorities.
Availability
The January–February 2026 issue is now in circulation and is available in both print and digital formats, ensuring accessibility for readers locally and internationally. In addition to individual copies, annual print subscriptions covering six issues are also available for professionals, firms, and institutions that rely on Kenya Engineer as a reference publication.
Digital download link - https://apo-opa.co/3N0wueV
Print copy order - https://apo-opa.co/3Yrurmw
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Kenya Engineer.For further information:
www.KenyaEngineer.co.ke
info@kenyaengineer.co.ke
admin@kenyaengineer.co.ke
About Kenya Engineer:
Kenya Engineer is a professional engineering magazine serving East Africa and beyond. It provides news, analysis, and features across power, infrastructure, manufacturing, automation, sustainability, and emerging technologies, with a focus on engineering-led development. The publication has served the engineering community for over 50 years.
Emirates SkyCargo charts flightpath into 2026, following a milestone year
Emirates SkyCargo (www.Emirates.com) wraps the year with a clear roadmap to success in 2026, following significant investment in enhancing its fleet and network, forging new strategic partnerships, reshaping the digital landscape and launching all-new products over the last 12 months. As the cargo arm of the world's largest international airline, Emirates SkyCargo is on track to seamlessly connect the globe, keeping goods flowing quickly, reliably and efficiently.
Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President, Emirates SkyCargo, “In 2025, we built the runway for what comes next. We strengthened the core pillars of our business by expanding our network and innovating with our product portfolio and operations to deliver what our customers need today – and tomorrow. 2026 is set to be a pivotal year for our fleet expansion, with the expected delivery of up to 10 Boeing 777Fs by December, fuelling our next era of growth. This influx of capacity unlocks opportunities for network and scheduling expansions, offer more flexibility to scale our solutions and enable us to deliver even greater value across our global network.”
STRONGER FLEET, WIDER NETWORK, BIGGER IMPACT
At the start of the year, the first of Emirates SkyCargo's Boeing 777Fs were delivered with another two in the following months, allowing the airline to retire older aircraft and deliver on its commitment to operate one of the youngest fleets in the sky. The fleet currently stands at 11 Boeing 777Fs and 5 wet-leased Boeing 747s. The first Emirates' passenger aircraft entered the conversion programme, with the view to start operations as a fully-fledged freighter in 2026. By the end of next year, Emirates SkyCargo aims to operate a fleet of at least 21 freighters, adding significantly more cargo capacity to current operations.
Delivering on its long-term vision to add more freighter destinations to its network, in 2025 the airline launched freighter services to eight new destinations: Copenhagen, Narita, Bangkok, Mumbai, Beirut, Conakry, Phnom Penh (KTI) and Hanoi, while high-volume destinations such as Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Johannesburg were better served with additional weekly frequencies. The recently launched Hanoi was swiftly bolstered to a four-weekly service, to cater to the demand. As of year's end, Emirates SkyCargo reaches 42 global destinations across six continents with freighter services.
Throughout 2025, Emirates SkyCargo strengthened its network of over 180 global interline partners, inking new agreements to expand its global footprint. In February, the airline signed with Africa-based Astral Aviation and then in April, with Southeast Asia's Teleport, to create seamless connectivity into primary, secondary and tertiary airports in two regions that are burgeoning with trade opportunities. The airline continues to reinforce its existing strategic partnerships with global airlines such as Air Canada, United and Virgin Atlantic, to reach every corner of the globe.
FUTURE-FIT OPERATIONS
Even as Emirates SkyCargo draws up plans for its all-new facility at Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), it continued to invest in its current operations to deliver peak performance. The airline upgraded its on-road fleet by taking delivery of 40 Euro 6 trucks from MAN Trucks, bringing the latest low-emissions and driver-centric technology to the region. By Q1 2026, the fleet will be bolstered with the delivery of five hydrogen-powered trucks, marking a key milestone in the company's gradual transition to alternate fuel vehicles.
Exploring next-gen cargo delivery solutions, Emirates SkyCargo and LODD Autonomous (http://apo-opa.co/4pjXXFz) will collaborate on the development and feasibility of VTOL (Vertical Take Off and Landing) aircraft for first and last mile delivery throughout 2026.
The rise in digital bookings – coupled with the decline in manual bookings – continued to grow throughout the year, as more customers opted for seamless and efficient processes. By December 2025, almost 80% of all shipments on Emirates SkyCargo are booked digitally, driven predominately by eSkyCargo, and followed by the third-party digital marketplaces where the airline is present and direct customer API integrations. Digitising other critical cargo processes, Emirates SkyCargo become the first carrier in the region to adopt PayCargo's solution, introducing instant payments via credit card or direct debit, as opposed to the traditional and inefficient cash transactions. Looking ahead to 2026, the airline will explore further enhancements to its digital toolbelt, such as adding new features and products that refine the customer journey.
SOLVING TRANSPORTATION CHALLENGES WITH NEW PRODUCTS
Emirates SkyCargo remained airline of choice for all types of shipments – from moving over 14,600 beloved family pets to transporting the first ever prototype of the Koenigsegg supercar to Mille Miglia in the UAE.
2025 saw the landmark launch of Emirates Courier Express (http://apo-opa.co/4jt51i0), the airline's door-to-door delivery solution, that sets new benchmarks in cross-border delivery. Within months, the solution had already scaled to launch in Australia and Germany, with a roadmap of upcoming launches into the world's largest economies throughout 2026. To date, the solution has delivered over 50,000 packages with an average delivery time across its network of 3 days, and an average of 1 day between the UK and UAE.
Harnessing the technical expertise of its team, Emirates SkyCargo launched the Aerospace and Engineering (http://apo-opa.co/3NcKEJJ) vertical, featuring an optimised AOG (http://apo-opa.co/4jyC3xm) service and an all-new Aircraft Engines (http://apo-opa.co/4qFzwUe) offering, meticulously balancing speed and security into specialised solutions. Emirates SkyCargo has recorded a 100% increase in the movement of individual engines, compared to the same time period last year, with demand continuing to grow – something the airline will be better placed to serve with the future aircraft deliveries. Earning its stripes, the airline transported Arab Satellite 813 from Al Ain to Shanghai, showcasing the new vertical's precision, care and reliability.
Fresh (http://apo-opa.co/4qFI51p), dedicated to the movement of food, flowers and other perishables and the airline's biggest vertical by tonnage, grew by 10% uplifting an additional 25,700 tonnes in comparison to 2024 – the equivalent of 275 million apples. As the UAE's Comprehensive Economic Agreements (CEPAs) come into effect, the airline will continue to keep perishables moving from farm to table in as little as 24 hours.
With the burgeoning global demand for critical and personalised patient treatments such as clinical trials or cell and gene therapies, Emirates SkyCargo recorded a 54% increase in volume on Vital (http://apo-opa.co/4qEI91c), the airline's dedicated white glove service for the most sensitive pharmaceutical shipments. Emirates SkyCargo continues to invest in its infrastructure, technology and processes to reinforce its reputation as an undisputed market leader in the life sciences and healthcare vertical, moving 2,000 tonnes of pharma every week.
The increased volume of mobile phones and other personal electronic devices being manufactured in Vietnam and India drove a 30% uptick in the airline's Secure (https://apo-opa.co/4qDTXRt) solution. Emirates SkyCargo met the demand with a mixture of freighter services and SEA-AIR (http://apo-opa.co/4qFI65t).
Emirates SkyCargo continues to set benchmarks for excellence in global logistics. In 2026, the airline will build on this strong foundation to deliver on its long-term strategy which includes doubling its current capacity, adding 20 new freighter destinations to its network and shaping the future of the industry with smart, digital-first products and services.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Emirates Group.Contact:
Emirates Public Relations
pr@emirates.com
Merck Foundation Chairman, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and 14 First Ladies inaugurate the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit...
Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative - MFFLI Summit 2025 on 19th and 20th June in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative along with The First Ladies of 14 African and Asian countries, who joined as the Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers.
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative” emphasized, “It is my great honor to welcome our esteemed Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers, The First Ladies of Africa and Asia, and Ambassadors of our ‘More Than a Mother' campaign to the 7th Edition of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit.
Through this important platform, we have collectively exchanged valuable experiences and engaged in meaningful discussions on the impact of our programs, which are aimed at transforming patient care and raising awareness of a wide range of critical social and health issues.”
Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees added, “At Merck Foundation, our goal is improving overall health and well-being by building healthcare capacity and by providing access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in the Africa, Asia and beyond. I would like to sincerely thank our Ambassadors and partners. Together, with your unwavering support and collaboration, we will continue to work towards our vision of a world where everyone can lead a healthy and happy life.”
The First Ladies of 14 countries, who are also the Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, joined as Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers. They are:
- H.E. Dr. ANA DIAS LOURENÇO, The First Lady of the Republic of Angola
- H.E. Dr. DÉBORA KATISA CARVALHO, The First Lady of the Republic of Cabo Verde
- H.E. Madam BRIGITTE TOUADERA, The First Lady of the Central African Republic
- H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, The First Lady of the Gabonese Republic
- H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, The First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia
- H.E. Mrs. LORDINA DRAMANI MAHAMA, The First Lady of the Republic of Ghana
- H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., The First Lady of the Republic of Kenya
- H.E. Mrs. KARTUMU YARTA BOAKAI, The First Lady of the Republic of Liberia
- H.E. Mrs. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, The First Lady of the Republic of Maldives
- H.E. Dr. GUETA SELEMANE CHAPO, The First Lady of the Republic of Mozambique
- H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
- H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, The First Lady of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe
- H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, The First Lady of the Republic of Senegal
- H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, The First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe
Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej stated, “I am proud to share that Merck Foundation has provided more than 2500 scholarships for young doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties. Many of our Merck Foundation Alumni are becoming the first specialists in their countries. Together with our Ambassadors and Partners, we are making history and transforming the patient care landscape across Africa and beyond. Many of them are becoming the first specialists in their countries.”
“During our Conference, we also marked together the World Infertility Awareness Month, observed in June, through our signature campaign “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, which aims to empower infertile and childless women by providing access to information, education, and change of mindset. I am happy to share that out of the total 2500 scholarships, more than 700 scholarships have been provided for training in Fertility, Embryology, Sexual and Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Psychiatry, Women's Health, Urology, Laparoscopic Surgical Skills, and Family Medicine, to improve access to fertility care and women's health”, she further added.
During the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative -MFFLI Summit, two important occasions were marked; the 8th Anniversary of Merck Foundation and 13 years of Merck Foundation's development programs that started in 2012.
On the first day, the Plenary Session of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative -MFFLI Summit took place, featuring a high-level panel discussion with the participating First Ladies of Africa and Asia. Moreover, a high-level ministerial panel discussion was held with African Ministers and top healthcare experts from across the globe.
The Day 2 of the conference will have three key parallel session will be held- Two medical and scientific sessions covering Oncology and Fertility Topics, and a community awareness session, Merck Foundation Health Media Training. This session will emphasize the critical role of the media in influencing communities and driving cultural change, with regards to a wide range of social and health issues like Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girls' Education, Stopping GBV, Ending Child Marriage & FGM, Empowering Women, Diabetes and Hypertension Awareness.
The conference is being conducted in a hybrid format, enabling over 6,000 audiences from more than 70 countries to benefit, meet and discuss strategies and solutions for the health and social challenges in their countries safely and effectively.
Countries participating in the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative:
Angola, Bangladesh, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Canada, Central Africa Republic, Cambodia, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, Gabon, Germany, Ghana, Guinea – Bissau, Guinea – Conakry, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tanzania, Thailand, The Gambia, Togo, Tunisia, U.A.E, UK, Uganda, US, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe and more.
The 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative is streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation:
@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4q2rvZt), X (https://apo-opa.co/45qH1pP), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4q47diw) and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4q3lFqM).
@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3LaSlQa), X (https://apo-opa.co/4qm5RzT), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4jsY14Q) and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4qm5Qfj).
Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:
- 2500+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for doctors from 52 Countries in more than 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.
Merck Foundation is also creating a culture shift and breaking the silence about a wide range of social and health issues in Africa and underserved communities through:
- 3700+ Media Persons from more than 35 countries trained to better raise awareness about different social and health issues
- 8 Different Awards launched annually for best media coverage, fashion designers, films, and songs
- Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa
- 9 Children's Storybooks in three languages - English, French, and Portuguese
- 6 Awareness Animation films in five languages - English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes & Hypertension and supporting girl education.
- Pan African TV Program "Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community
- 1040+ Scholarships provided to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls to empower them to complete their studies
- 15 Social Media Channels with more than 8 Million Followers.
Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com
Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4q2rvZt
X: https://apo-opa.co/45qH1pP
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4q3lFqM
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4q47diw
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/3N47XFC
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/49ApldU
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/44SJjhm
About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4q2rvZt), X (https://apo-opa.co/45qH1pP), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4q47diw), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4q3lFqM), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/3N47XFC) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/49ApldU).
The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.
Mukuru and Travelex Announce Strategic Alliance to Expand Cash Payout Options in South Africa
Mukuru (www.Mukuru.com), a leading next-generation financial services platform, has partnered with Travelex, a market leader in foreign exchange services, to expand cash payout options for remittance customers across South Africa. The partnership reinforces Mukuru's capabilities to provide accessible, safe, and convenient services to millions of customers who depend on remittances for daily needs.
Positioned as a strategic alliance that will enhance reach to more customers, the partnership introduces Travelex as an additional payout channel within the Mukuru network. Customers can now access funds at any of Travelex's 46 nationwide branches, strategically located in high-traffic, easily accessible areas. This wider footprint reduces travel time, eliminates traffic congestion, and ensures access to cash.
South Africa's Bureau de Change (BdC) sector has a strong regulatory environment that supports this collaboration. The BdC framework ensures that payout networks are secure and reliable. BdC operators such as Travelex are supported by robust liquidity and strict compliance standards, ensuring that transactions are conducted securely and in line with national regulations. Additionally, on-site know-your-customer (KYC) processes safeguard customers and build trust.
For customers, the advantages of the partnership include access through an expanded branch network and speed and efficiency via reliable access to cash in trusted locations. Furthermore, the agreement reduces Mukuru's reliance on single-channel payout solutions and can help build a more resilient and diversified ecosystem.
“Mukuru has always focused on creating impactful financial solutions to improve our customers' lives,” said Yemurai Chatapura, Commercial Manager – Remittances at Mukuru. “This partnership extends that reach while upholding high standards of security, compliance, and service. The collaboration strengthens our payout network and commitment to accessible, inclusive financial services across South Africa.”
Marlize Van Der Schyff, Financial Director at Travelex, added, “Tourvest Financial Services t/a Travelex is excited to partner with Mukuru as we continue expanding our service offering. This partnership represents a natural alignment of strengths between our organisations. Together, we'll bring customers a more powerful, seamless, and future-ready experience.”
This collaboration highlights Mukuru's commitment to providing access to affordable financial services, especially for those sectors that rely on remittance inflows. With operations in over 50 countries and a growing customer base of millions, Mukuru is well-positioned for continued growth and expansion across the continent.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mukuru.Media Contact:
Rhett Delaney
rhett.delaney@mukuru.com
About Mukuru:
Mukuru is a leading next-generation financial services platform serving over 17 million customers across Africa, Asia and Europe. With more than 100 million transactions processed across 570+ corridors, Mukuru leverages technology to provide affordable, accessible financial services via both physical and digital channels. Recognised six times in the FXC Intelligence Top 100 Cross- Border Payment Companies, Mukuru is also an award-winning employer and innovation leader.
To learn more about Mukuru, visit www.Mukuru.com.
About Travelex:
Tourvest Financial Services, trading as Travelex, operates 53 branches across South Africa, including flagship locations at OR Tambo and Cape Town International Airports, providing comprehensive foreign exchange solutions to residents, foreign nationals, visitors and corporates. The company buys and sells 24 different currencies, offers foreign cash and secure multi-currency Cash Passport travel cards linked to Mastercard, supports international money remittances through Western Union and now Mukuru, and facilitates telegraphic transfers for travel-related land arrangements such as hotels, tours and transfers. As a SARB-licensed Authorised Dealer with Limited Authority, Tourvest is recognised for its strong focus on security, people, technology and service excellence, delivering convenient, safe and reliable currency solutions for modern travellers.
To learn more about Travelex, visit https://www.Travelex.co.za/
Frontier Exploration Renaissance: How New Seismic Technology Is Unlocking Africa’s Undeveloped Basins
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Recent months have witnessed a surge in seismic data deals and renewed exploration activity across Africa. In November 2025, TGS, a leader in energy data and intelligence, secured rights to market and license offshore geophysical data for Comoros, granting explorers access to over 10,000 line‑kilometers of modern SPAN 2D seismic data. This agreement builds on ongoing initiatives in East Africa, including an extended mandate with Somalia's Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources covering offshore basins.
Seismic campaigns are also accelerating elsewhere. In mid‑2025, Sierra Leone announced plans for a new 3D seismic acquisition in its offshore basin, marking the most active upstream effort there in over a decade. In parallel, older seismic data are being reprocessed in the southern reaches of the basin ahead of expected drilling next year.
On Africa's larger offshore frontier, legacy basins in Southern Africa are regaining focus. In Angola, seismic reprocessing and new data acquisition across the Kwanza and Lower Congo basins – including both 2D and 3D surveys – are laying the groundwork for upcoming licensing rounds. At last year's African Energy Week (AEW) conference, TotalEnergies and Chevron emphasized the critical role of advanced seismic imaging and faster permit approvals in unlocking frontier basins, citing Namibia's Orange Basin discovery as proof of concept. The “Venus” well, for example, reportedly had a success probability above 50% – a remarkable figure for what had previously been considered frontier acreage. This kind of success is directly attributable to improved subsurface imaging and the increasing availability of high-quality seismic and geological data.
These developments signal a shift from speculative frontier plays toward data-driven decision-making. Expanding multi‑client seismic libraries lowers entry barriers for exploration companies and provides a more nuanced view of subsurface potential. According to the African Energy Chamber's (AEC) 2026 Outlook, while established producing nations such as Algeria, Nigeria, Libya, Egypt and Angola continue to provide the bulk of production, attention is increasingly turning to emerging hotspots, including Ivory Coast, Namibia, Sierra Leone and other frontier basins with favorable fiscal terms. Better seismic coverage reduces geological and financial risk, improves the chances of commercial discovery and enables more informed bidding in upcoming license rounds. In countries like Sierra Leone and Comoros, seismic data may pave the way for the first wells in decades, while in nations with existing offshore infrastructure like Angola, it could trigger a new cycle of exploration, appraisal and production growth.
“Advanced seismic imaging is fundamentally changing the frontier exploration equation in Africa. By combining high-quality 2D and 3D data, reprocessed legacy surveys and more efficient permitting, countries are replacing speculation with certainty. This is how Africa unlocks its undeveloped basins responsibly – by lowering risk, attracting serious long-term capital and ensuring that exploration translates into real projects, real production and real value for African economies,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC.
As seismic data accumulates and becomes more accessible, exploration dynamics may evolve. Smaller independents and local entities could begin participating more actively, leveraging shared data to assess and bid on promising blocks. Governments may also negotiate more favorable terms thanks to lower risk premiums and clearer geological insight.
Looking ahead to AEW 2026, the seismic-driven renaissance of African basins is likely to be a central theme. The improved subsurface understanding enabled by modern seismic, combined with faster permitting, expanding multi‑client libraries and renewed investor interest, offers a clear path toward unlocking Africa's vast undeveloped hydrocarbon potential.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.MIR Holding: Mouhamad Dieng and President Adama Borrow lay the groundwork for collaboration
MIR Holding (https://MIRHolding.Odoo.com), a global investment group, is exploring potential investments in The Gambia after its Chief Executive Officer, Mouhamad Dieng, held talks with His Excellency President Adama Barrow.
The meeting focused on the role of private investment in supporting economic growth, improving infrastructure and strengthening key productive sectors, as the Gambian government seeks to attract long-term capital to diversify its economy.
MIR Holding identified several sectors of interest, including digital infrastructure and urban infrastructure, real estate and tourism. These sectors are central to The Gambia's development strategy, given their potential to boost productivity, employment and foreign investment.
According MIR Holding's guiding principles, any potential investment would be subject to due diligence and structured in close coordination with public authorities and local partners. The group emphasised governance, regulatory clarity and long-term project viability as key criteria in its investment decisions.
Digitalisation was discussed as a cross-cutting priority, with a focus on strengthening digital infrastructure and improving service delivery. Infrastructure development was also highlighted as a prerequisite for enhancing connectivity and supporting private sector growth.
Real estate and tourism were also identified as areas with significant upside potential, particularly projects aligned with global standards and sustainability principles, while responding to local market needs.
“Governance and policy predictability were central to the discussions. Investors require clear regulatory frameworks and institutional stability to commit long-term capital, MIR Holding's CEO Mouhamad Dieng noted.
“Public-private dialogue is critical to building investor confidence and this visit to The Gambia is part of MIR Holding's broader pan-African strategy to expand its footprint across the continent while aligning investments with national development agendas.” He added.
The group operates across investment, real estate, services and infrastructure, and positions itself as a long-term partner rather than a short-term financial investor.
MIR Holding and Gambian authorities are expected to continue technical discussions in the coming months to assess specific project opportunities and partnership structures, the sources said.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MIR Holding.Press contact :
Elisabeth TINE
Communication officer
contact@brainz-sn.com
Tel. 00 33 843 99 47
About MIR Holding:
MIR Holding is a global investment group with operations across several strategic sectors, including investment, real estate, services and infrastructure. The group focuses on long-term value creation, governance and sustainable impact, working in partnership with public and private stakeholders. MIR Holding aims to contribute to Africa's economic transformation by developing projects aligned with national priorities and international investment standards.
