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African Development Bank approves $310 million financial package for FirstRand Bank to scale up lending to MSMEs, women entrepreneurs and agribusinesses in South Africa
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The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) has approved a $310 million financial package to FirstRand Bank, one of the largest financial institutions in Africa. This support will significantly increase access to finance for micro, small, and medium-sized business enterprises (MSMEs), with a particular focus on women-led businesses and agribusinesses in South Africa.
FirstRand Bank is a wholly owned subsidiary of the FirstRand Group.
This comprehensive financing package demonstrates the African Development Bank's continued support for private-sector-led growth and its confidence in FNB, FirstRand's leading commercial banking franchise, to support South Africa's socio-economic transformation and inclusive growth, particularly through empowering women entrepreneurs and agricultural businesses nationwide.
The package comprises three strategic components: a $200 million line of credit for on-lending to MSMEs across various sectors; a $100 million gender-focused line of credit dedicated to women-led and women-owned MSMEs; and a $10 million concessional line of credit from the Agri-Food SME Catalytic Financing Mechanism targeting women-owned agricultural small business enterprises.
“This approval highlights the African Development Bank's dedication to bolstering the private sector and fostering inclusive economic growth in South Africa,” said Kennedy Mbekeani, African Development Bank's Director General for Southern Africa. “By channeling these resources through FirstRand and, in particular, its commercial banking franchise, FNB, we are working with trusted partners with extensive reach to ensure that MSMEs —particularly those led by women —have access to the capital they need to grow, create jobs, and contribute to South Africa's economic development.”
A defining feature of this approval is its strong gender focus: $110 million — more than one-third of the total financial package – is explicitly earmarked for women MSMEs. This intentional gender approach aligns with AfDB's Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) and the Agri-Food SME Catalytic Financing Mechanism (ACFM) initiatives, demonstrating AfDB's commitment to closing the gender financing gap in Africa.
The concessional funding is, by design, ring-fenced for women-owned small business enterprises operating in South Africa's agriculture sector to significantly increase their access to affordable credit on favorable terms. Most smallholder farmers in South Africa remain excluded from accessing bank credit, yet they make up a significant proportion of the farming population.
The Financial Package will be complemented by technical assistance and Performance-Based Incentives from ACFM and AFAWA initiatives of the African Development Bank. The Technical assistance packages are intended to enhance the bankability of women-led/owned small business enterprises; support FNB's (FirstRand's commercial banking franchise) agriculture offerings; and explore alternative credit scoring.
“The approval of this financing package represents a significant milestone and elevation of this impactful partnership between the African Development Bank and FirstRand. It demonstrates both institutions' shared commitment to driving inclusive economic growth and empowerment of the heavily credit-deprived business communities of South Africa by deliberately channeling credit to women entrepreneurs and smallholder farmers”, stated Ahmed Attout, Director of the Financial Sector Development Department at the African Development Bank
“MSMEs are significant contributors to South Africa's economic growth, supporting job creation and community upliftment. FirstRand's commercial banking arm, FNB, has demonstrated a strong track record in providing capacity to women-owned businesses and small businesses in the agricultural sector, which in turn supports community development,” said Bhulesh Singh, FirstRand Group Treasurer.
This operation aligns with the African Development Bank's Four Cardinal Points development priorities. It also supports the Bank's Ten-Year Strategy (2024-2033), which focuses on inclusive growth, private sector development, and gender equality.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa's premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org
Egyptian companies mark continued participation at Big 5 Global, strengthening resilient supply chains for construction and infrastructure growth
- Over 65 countries exhibit, with 70% of solutions being international, connecting Egypt's construction stakeholders to global suppliers and technology providers
- Over 2,800 exhibitors showcase low-carbon solutions, modular builds, energy-efficient systems and prefabrication methods that reduce waste and improve resource use
Across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, urbanization is reshaping economies at unprecedented speed. With more than half the world's population now living in cities, a figure expected to reach nearly 68% by 2050, according to the United Nations (https://apo-opa.co/4oHeBj9), developing regions such as Egypt are accelerating urban transformation through ambitious construction goals, including the development of fourth-generation cities (https://apo-opa.co/4oHeDHN), sustainable infrastructure and inclusive housing to accommodate rapid urbanization and economic growth. As project volumes grow, industry leaders are turning to Big 5 Global (www.Big5Global.com) to explore technologies and solutions that strengthen construction supply chains, improve technological efficiency and advance sustainability.
Bringing together participants from over 165 countries, with 70% solutions from international companies, Big 5 Global connects Egypt's construction and urban development ecosystem to a global network of suppliers, manufacturers and technology providers.
“Egypt continues to expand its construction, infrastructure and urban development ambitions and Big 5 Global provides a great opportunity for local and international stakeholders to connect, explore solutions and enhance project delivery,” said Ahmed Abdel Fattah, Executive Director, Export Council for Building Materials, Refractory & Metallurgy Industries. “Our continued participation highlights the growing role of Egyptian companies in delivering tailored, sustainable and technologically advanced construction solutions that meet the country's modernization goals.”
Strengthening global supply chains for project efficiency
Big 5 Global brings together 2,800 exhibitors and over 60,000 products, services, systems and solutions from around the world, supporting efficient, reliable project delivery.
International pavilions from Germany and Italy return with expertise in advanced materials, including high-performance concrete, cement, marble and stone systems, while India expands its footprint with advanced MEP and smart construction solutions for large-scale projects across the Middle East and Africa. Returning pavilions, Austria and Pakistan, showcase export-ready innovations in modular builds, interiors and MEP systems designed to reduce costs and streamline delivery. Additionally, exhibitors from Armenia, Croatia, Hungary, Jersey, New Zealand, Norway and Serbia further broaden sourcing options for buyers seeking diversified and reliable supply routes.
As supply networks evolve to meet regional demand, technology is driving the next phase of efficiency in project delivery and procurement.
Technology transforming procurement and project delivery
Digitalization is transforming how projects are procured, managed and executed. At Digital Construction World, global exhibitors including Autodesk, Nemetschek Group, Odoo, Premier Construction Software, Procore Technologies, RIB Software and Trimble showcase technologies that enhance visibility and efficiency across the supply chain. Odoo integrates procurement, HR and operations into a single suite, reducing redundancies; Premier Construction Software simplifies cost tracking and project management; Trimble leverages automation to cut site rework by up to 25%, directly improving delivery times and project profitability; and Meter Technology demonstrates its fully integrated digital solution that transforms surveying and engineering, eliminating decades-old inefficiencies.
Eng. Ahmed Al-Ansary, Chairman, Founder & CEO of Meter Technology, commented: “Meter transforms surveying and engineering from traditional to tech-driven. As the world's first fully integrated digital platform, we've eliminated decades-old inefficiencies. Our AI-powered system completes complex projects within 48 hours with exceptional precision across nine countries. Big 5 Global offers the opportunity to connect with industry leaders and explore sector development worldwide under ‘From the UAE to the World', where geospatial and engineering digital innovation forms the foundation of real estate sustainability.”
Sustainable manufacturing and smarter material supply
International exhibitors are also rethinking how materials are produced, transported and reused to reduce environmental impact while improving long-term value.
China's new Eco-Friendly Zone is built entirely from recyclable materials and features solutions for low-carbon construction, showcasing how sustainability can be integrated throughout the supply chain.
Among key participants, Grundfos Gulf Distribution leads with energy-efficient pumping systems that reduce water and energy use in commercial and industrial facilities. Deewan Equipment Trading LLC introduces modular and precast manufacturing plants that cut onsite waste and shorten construction schedules through prefabrication. Hitech Concrete Products showcases precast hollow-core and insulated wall systems designed for thermal efficiency and reduced raw material consumption, advancing sustainable construction practices across the region.
GF, a leading provider of MEP solutions and sustainable building technologies, returns to Big 5 Global to showcase its advanced systems that support efficient construction workflows and environmentally responsible project delivery. "The region is pursuing one of the world's most ambitious development programs, where sustainable water management is key to realizing this vision. GF is uniquely positioned to support this progress through its comprehensive solutions portfolio, our local presence including manufacturing, offsite-manufacturing and customer experience facilities, long-standing regional partnerships and dedicated teams who understand the market's unique challenges," said Michael Rauterkus, Executive Committee member of GF and President of GF Building Flow Solutions.
These contributions highlight how collaboration with global manufacturers helps the UAE advance smart cities and net-zero goals.
“Big 5 Global continues to connect international manufacturers and regional stakeholders, helping strengthen construction supply chains and advance sustainable growth across the built environment,” said Josine Heijmans, Vice President, dmg events. “As the UAE accelerates towards its smart city and net-zero goals, these international partnerships bring practical, scalable solutions that support project efficiency, quality and delivery.”
Big 5 Global is supported by leading sponsors and partners, including Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure, Dubai Civil Defense, Ministry of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Municipality, Department of Municipalities and Transport, Ras Al Khaima Municipality, Riyadh Region Municipality, Meter Technology, Schüco, Alumil, Italian Trade Agency, Arabian Gulf Steel Industries (AGSI), GF, Dubai Investments Park, Würth Professional Solutions, MIE Groups, Daikin, Hisense, TCL, Gulf-O-Flex, DAC Group, DeWalt, Nassar Stone and Nemetschek Group.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Big 5 Global.For media inquiries, please contact:
Deepra Ahluwalia
Action PR
deepra.a@actionprgroup.com
971 56 477 0995
Nour Ibrahim
Action PR
nour.i@actionprgroup.com
971 54 425 0187
Khushie Mallya
PR Executive
Construction, dmg events
khushiemallya@dmgevents.com
Ranju Warrier
Head of PR & Communications
Construction, dmg events
ranjuwarrier@dmgevents.com
About Big 5 Global:
With a 45-year legacy, Big 5 Global is the largest and most influential building and construction event in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia and the annual meeting hub for the global construction industry. Taking place from 24 – 27 November 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Big 5 Global attracts more than 85,000 global attendees from over 165 countries and 2,800 exhibitors to UAE covering the full construction and urban development cycle across dedicated sectors and nine specialized events enabling industry professionals to source worldwide building solutions for every stage of construction: Heavy, Totally Concrete, Marble & Stone World, Urban Design & Landscape, Windows, Doors & Facades, HVACR World, LiveableCitiesX, GeoWorld and Future FM.
For more information and to register, visit: www.Big5Global.com
International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) Strengthens Comoros’ Energy Security and Food Resilience with Innovative Trade Finance Solutions
The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (www.ITFC-IDB.org), a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, continues to make significant progress in its partnership with the Union of Comoros, delivering impactful trade finance solutions to bolster the country's energy security, food supply, and economic diversification.
With no domestic oil production and modest agricultural output, Comoros depends heavily on imports to power its economy and sustain its population of approximately 850,000. Since 2008, ITFC has emerged as a critical partner, approving over US$799.3 million in trade finance to support the country's development priorities.
Powering a Nation Through Energy Financing
Since its inception, ITFC has approved US$655.4 million in energy financing for Comoros, accounting for over 80% of all ITFC support to the country. This investment has allowed Comoros to secure all its annual imports of refined petroleum products, estimated at 100,000 m³, ensuring the stability of its energy supply even amid global price shocks.
In 2023, ITFC partnered with Société Comorienne des Hydrocarbures (SCH), the state-owned hydrocarbons company, to implement an Integrated Trade Solution (ITS) that combined financing with capacity building. As part of a Reverse Linkage program, SCH staff trained at Tunisia's STIR Refinery, gaining vital skills in trade negotiations, Islamic finance, and oil storage management. This initiative safeguards around 480 direct jobs, with nearly 200 of them held by women. Over 70% of petroleum imports are sourced from OIC member countries, reinforcing intra-OIC trade and regional cooperation.
Securing Food Supply Amid Global Price Shocks
In 2024, ITFC approved a new EUR 20 million trade finance facility to strengthen food security in the Union of Comoros. The facility will finance the import of essential staple foods, including rice, flour, sugar, oil, and meat, providing critical support to the nation's food supply chain.
In 2023, Comoros imported 91,929.94 metric tons of foodstuffs valued at EUR 62.7 million. The new facility will cover about 31.9% of annual food procurement needs, enabling households to access food at more affordable prices. This financing supports 50 to 75 local micro and small enterprises, sustaining over 2,500 jobs. Since its establishment, ITFC has provided over US$143.9 million in financing to support the food security and agriculture sector.
Additionally, ITFC promotes Islamic finance in Comoros through its partnership with local banks, namely, AFG Bank and BDC. This expands access to Letters of Credit (L/C) confirmation facilities and strengthens the domestic financial sector, aligning with the government's diversification agenda.
Through these strategic interventions, ITFC continues to play a vital role in advancing Comoros' sustainable development agenda by ensuring energy security, strengthening food systems, and empowering local enterprises. The Corporation's integrated trade finance solutions enhance resilience to external shocks and promote inclusive economic growth and regional cooperation.
Watch the Comoros project video - https://apo-opa.co/3LDt6Wv
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).Contact Us:
Tel: +966 12 646 8337
Fax: +966 12 637 1064
E-mail: ITFC@itfc-idb.org
Follow International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC):
Twitter: @ ITFCCORP
Facebook: @ ITFCCORP
LinkedIn: International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC)
About the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC):
The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) is a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group. It was established with the primary objective of advancing trade among OIC member countries, which would ultimately contribute to the overarching goal of improving the socioeconomic conditions of the people across the world. Commencing operations in January 2008, ITFC has provided US$89 billion of financing to OIC member countries, making it the leading provider of trade solutions for these member countries' needs. With a mission to become a catalyst for trade development for OIC member countries and beyond, the Corporation helps entities in member countries gain better access to trade finance and provides them with the necessary trade-related capacity-building tools, which would enable them to successfully compete in the global market.
Cassava Technologies & Google partner to bring Gemini to millions across Africa
Cassava Technologies (www.CassavaTechnologies.com), a global technology leader of African heritage, has announced a strategic partnership to expand access to Google's advanced AI, Gemini, across the continent.
The collaboration is built on two key offers designed to remove the primary barriers of cost and data consumption for consumers and businesses in Africa:
- A six-month extended trial of the Google AI Plus plan, provided by Google. This plan includes more access to Google's most capable Gemini models, 200 GB of storage, video generation, Gemini in Gmail and Docs and higher limit for image generation.
- Data-free access to the Gemini app. Cassava will work with its extensive network of technology service providers to ensure that eligible users can use the Gemini app without consuming any of their mobile data.
By leveraging the extensive reach of Cassava's partner network and the advanced capabilities of Google's AI solutions, this initiative will help more Africans access, experience, and benefit from advanced AI technologies.
“We're proud to partner with Google to democratise access to digital solutions that empower people and businesses. This partnership underscores a shared vision to make AI more inclusive, accessible, and impactful across Africa's rapidly digitising economies. It's about shaping a smarter, more connected, and more competitive Africa,” said Hardy Pemhiwa, President & Group CEO of Cassava Technologies.
“Our goal is to make Gemini helpful for everyone. By partnering with Cassava, we're removing significant barriers to AI adoption across Africa—specifically cost and connectivity. This collaboration should help bring the full potential of Gemini to millions of people, empowering them to learn, build, and create without worrying about data consumption,” said Josh Woodward, VP, Google Labs, Gemini, & AI Studio
By removing the cost barrier to adoption, the initiative will enable individuals, businesses, and institutions to benefit from the following Google AI Plus features for the duration of the trial period.
- More access to our most capable model -Gemini 2.5 Pro
- 200GB of cloud storage
- Deep Research on 2.5 Pro
- Higher limits of image generation with Nano Banana
- Video generation with access to Veo 3.1 Fast
- Access to Flow, our generative video tool for filmmaking
- Expanded access to NotebookLM for advanced note-taking and insights
- Gemini integration in Gmail and Docs for smarter writing and productivity
Visit the Google AI Plus (https://apo-opa.co/4oDlJNr) page for a full list of features.
The partnership builds on Cassava's long-standing commitment to driving digital inclusion and innovation through collaborations that bring advanced solutions to African markets. With AI rapidly emerging as a key driver of socio-economic growth, it also aligns with the company's mission of providing digital solutions that enable enterprises to transform their customers' lives.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Cassava Technologies.About Cassava Technologies:
Cassava Technologies is a global technology leader of African heritage providing a vertically integrated ecosystem of digital services and infrastructure enabling digital transformation. Headquartered in the UK, Cassava has a presence across Africa, the Middle East, Latin America and the United States of America. Through its business units, namely, Cassava AI, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Liquid C2, Africa Data Centres, and Sasai Fintech, the company provides its customers' products and services in 94 countries. These solutions drive the company's ambition of establishing itself as a leading global technology company of African heritage. https://www.CassavaTechnologies.com/
About Google:
Google's mission is to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful. Through products and platforms like Search, Maps, Gmail, Android, Google Play, Google Cloud, Chrome and YouTube, Google plays a meaningful role in the daily lives of billions of people and has become one of the most widely-known companies in the world. Google is a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc.
The Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA) Announces Landmark Investment in Africa Minerals and Metals Processing Platform (A2MP) to Drive Africa’s Mining and...
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The Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA), the development equity impact investment arm of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), is pleased to announce a US$300 million strategic investment in the Africa Minerals and Metals Processing Platform (A2MP).
This investment underscores Afreximbank's commitment to supporting Africa's mining sector and ensuring the continent's vast mineral wealth becomes a catalyst for sustainable economic growth rather than a source of continued resource dependency.
Rooted in over a decade of successful mining ventures, A2MP has evolved into a diversified pan-African platform focused on mining and processing. The platform aims to unlock and scale minerals and metals value chains sustainably across the continent. The platform currently operates a robust pipeline of twelve mineral assets and four processing hubs, with a diversified portfolio spanning nine countries on the continent.
This extensive footprint places A2MP at the forefront of efforts to develop integrated minerals and metals value chains, unlocking new pathways for Africa's industrial growth and global market integration -- particularly at a time when the industry faces mounting challenges from the depletion of high-grade and easily accessible ore reserves.
A2MP brings together a diversified portfolio of leading mining assets and operating companies across multiple mineral classes, including gold, bauxite and alumina, manganese, iron ore amongst others. A2MP will also develop additional processing hubs, including those for rare earths, battery precursors, and other critical minerals, to strengthen value addition across the continent.
Dr. George Elombi, the new President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank and FEDA commented: “We are pleased to have successfully closed this investment in Africa Minerals and Metals Processing Platform (A2MP), which aligns with our broad vision to change the structure of Africa's trade and economy. With this investment, Afreximbank is helping the continent transition structurally from raw-material exports to a fully integrated system of mining and local manufacturing. Our investment in the platform will scale local processing capacity and build the infrastructure needed for value addition across multiple mineral classes. A2MP's integrated platform ensures that a greater share of the continent's mineral wealth is retained within African economies, enabling the creation of competitive industrial clusters and high-value jobs.”
Gagan Gupta, Founder of A2MP: “FEDA and Afreximbank's support marks a pivotal moment for Africa's industrial journey. It's more than a financial partnership; it is a bold affirmation of Africa's potential to lead the global value chain in minerals and metals. This strategic investment allows us to scale our fully integrated model of responsible extraction, processing, and transformation while accelerating the creation of high-value local industries across Africa. Our ambition is to make A2MP the backbone of the continent's next industrial revolution, create thousands of jobs, and deliver lasting impact for communities. With FEDA and Afreximbank as key partners, we are confident in our ability to shift global perceptions of Africa, from a resource-rich continent to a processing and manufacturing powerhouse.”
Marlene Ngoyi, CEO of FEDA noted: “Our investment in A2MP embodies the type of transformative investment that aligns perfectly with our vision for Africa's mining future. The platform's model is built on retaining beneficiation and processing within the continent, ensuring that the real economic value of Africa's mineral wealth is captured locally. By offering diversified exposure across a broad range of strategic minerals, A2MP stands out as a unique platform capable of building depth across critical value chains while providing resilience and sustainability.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.Media Contact:
Vincent Musumba
Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations)
Email: press@afreximbank.com
About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa's trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank's total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody's (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.
About FEDA:
The Fund for Export Development in Africa (“FEDA”) is the impact investment subsidiary of Afreximbank (www.Afreximbank.com), set up to provide equity, quasi-equity, and debt capital to finance the multi-billion-dollar funding gap (particularly in equity) needed to transform the Trade sector in Africa. FEDA pursues a multi-sector investment strategy along the intra-African trade, value-added export development, and manufacturing value chain which includes financial services, technology, consumer and retail goods, manufacturing, transport & logistics, agribusiness, as well as ancillary trade enabling infrastructure such as industrial parks. To date, FEDA has invested more than US$1.3 billion in companies and projects across its various fund initiatives, in sectors such as manufacturing, agro-processing, financial services, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, amongst others.
G20 Investment Forum to Highlight Africa’s Energy Projects as Global Investment Priority
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Ahead of the G20 Summit, the G20 African Energy Investment Forum, hosted by the African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org), will convene top global and African energy and finance leaders to discuss how investment, innovation and partnerships can unlock Africa's energy potential and drive sustainable economic growth. Scheduled for November 21 in Johannesburg, the program will feature a series of high-level fireside chats examining the role of international capital, development finance and local expertise in transforming Africa's energy landscape, in line with G20 priorities on infrastructure, energy security and private-sector mobilization.
Highlighting deepening ties between Africa and the Middle East, one session will examine how Saudi-led investment is driving Africa's energy transformation. As Saudi companies expand their commitment to the continent – with Saudi Arabia pledging $41 billion over the next decade to support Sub-Saharan Africa – the conversation will spotlight cross-border partnerships delivering renewable and conventional energy projects. These initiatives provide the scale, expertise and capital needed to accelerate the continent's energy transition while meeting rapidly growing demand.
Development finance institutions and multilateral organizations will take center stage in a discussion on enhancing local market access. Speakers will examine strategies for reducing barriers to investment and creating financing frameworks that can mobilize private capital across Africa. Efficient capital deployment at this moment is critical for determining the pace of the continent's energy growth and achieving G20-aligned development objectives.
Another session will provide insight into Africa's gas potential and its role in both regional industrialization and the global energy transition. By positioning gas as both a transitional and strategic resource, the conversation will highlight how the continent can strengthen energy security while advancing its own economic development.
A fireside chat on de-risking capital and removing investment barriers will focus on practical approaches to mitigating investment risks, structuring finance and creating investment-ready projects that can attract both regional and international private capital – an essential step for turning Africa's energy opportunities into tangible development outcomes.
“Africa's energy transformation depends on connecting global investors with African projects, while giving local stakeholders a central role in shaping outcomes. These sessions will turn discussions into action, helping unlock the capital and partnerships needed to power growth, create jobs and support sustainable development,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.
As global attention turns to Africa ahead of the G20 Summit, the forum will not only showcase the continent's energy potential but also demonstrate how strategic investment, collaboration and innovative finance can deliver results. From mobilizing private capital to strengthening local markets and advancing the energy transition, these conversations are set to define the next chapter of Africa's energy story and its growing role in the global investment ecosystem.
To register for the Forum click here (https://apo-opa.co/4oMla3G).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.Africa Must Produce Oil and Gas to Develop, Whether Western Nations Like It or Not (By NJ Ayuk)
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By NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber (https://EnergyChamber.org/).
In an opinion piece for The Guardian Fiona Harvey and Matthew Taylor wrote that it was time for gas exploration in Africa to stop.
“Africa must embrace renewable energy and forgo exploration of its potentially lucrative gas deposits to stave off climate disaster and bring access to clean energy to the hundreds of millions who lack it, leading experts on the continent have said,” they wrote.
This is hardly new. For several years now, wealthy nations and their environmental organizations have been strong-arming African countries to leave their petroleum assets in the ground.
The stance of the African Energy Chamber has been consistent: Yes, African oil and gas-producing countries should and will do their part to support global emissions-reduction goals. Yes, the dangers of climate change should be taken seriously.
However, we refuse to let the world set the timing for when Africa will ease up on oil and gas exploration and production. We are convinced that oil and gas production, when managed strategically, provides a pathway for economic growth and energy security, and we are determined to help Africa realize those benefits.
This is the message that we urge every African leader to take to COP30 in Brazil: African countries have to produce every drop of hydrocarbons they can fine and they have every right to set the timing for their energy transitions. And like nations around the world, African states will be exercising those rights.
Africa's Miniscule Contribution
The world must understand that African countries cannot be on the same energy transition timeline as Western countries. Africa still needs time – time that the Western world has already had and, frankly continues to milk – to resolve energy poverty and industrialize.
Let's first address the proverbial elephant in the room: When it comes to global emissions, Africa is NOT the problem.
In 2023, global CO2 emissions hit 37.12 billion tonnes. China ranked first in contributing 11.47 billion tonnes; the entire continent of Africa contributed 1.45 billion tonnes, only 4% of global carbon emissions. In fact, over the last two decades, Africa's total contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions has never been above 4% — by far the smallest share in all the world. Africa has the lowest per-capital emissions of all continents, averaging 1 tonne of CO2 emitted annually by each individual. The average American emits as much CO2 in one month as the average African does in an entire year.
And yet, Africa is disproportionately being punished for the climate catastrophe that, let's be honest, it was initiated and is perpetuated by Western and developed economies.
“The story of Africa or the developing world is not really an energy transition story, it's a development story,” Andrew Kamau with the Center on Global Energy Policy at Columbia University said in a recent interview with Energy Intelligence.
“You hear a lot about all these technologies that are being developed, but where are they at scale?” Kamau asked. “And has somebody industrialized using wind and solar only? I don't know. We wait to see if it's possible.”
Kamau also questioned where all the international funding is. The West has made grand financial promises, but the level of support truly needed to undertake a transition to renewables at the pace dictated by the West has yet to materialize.
Using the Resources at Our Feet
While we at the African Energy Chamber agree that it's important to develop affordable and sustainable green technologies to supply our energy, we strongly disagree with being pigeonholed into accepting the West's one-size-fits-all timeline.
I hear from Africans who are skeptical about the benefits of oil and gas because they have seen the problems caused by the energy sector. You could make the same arguments about the Internet, which has been blamed for harming social relationships, decreasing our safety and security, and damaging children's cognitive development. Yet, used wisely, the Internet does considerable good as well, and I'm not hearing widespread calls to get rid of it. My point is, oil and gas can and does do good (I've written whole books on the subject!) — the key is to be smart about how we capitalize on our resources.
Some 600 million people on the continent still lack adequate electricity access or even clean cooking technologies. These Africans aren't focused on the fact that reliable energy infrastructure facilitates economic growth by generating jobs, increasing productivity, and reducing the cost of doing business. Most would be elated to have light in their homes after dark or the ability to refrigerate their food.
But think about Africa's abundant energy potential!
By 2050, the continent will be home to 11% of the world's liquefied natural gas (LNG) market and the second-highest growth supply of gas. By tapping into the vast stores of natural gas at our feet, we can first work to eradicate energy poverty from the continent, and then secure our economic growth as we transition toward renewables.
I agree with Mohamed Hamel, the Secretary General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum, in his description of the argument that Africa should not develop its natural gas resources as “misguided.”
“A prosperous Africa will be more capable to protect its environment. The right of Africa to develop its vast natural resources can be preserved, and its access to finance and technology, facilitated,” Hamel said.
Turning the Pressure into Partnership
At the previous COP, I made it clear that, while African nations would not be continuing oil and gas operations indefinitely, with no movement toward renewable energy sources, we Africans should be setting the timetable for Africa's transition.
“What I'd like to see instead of Western pressure to bring African oil and gas activities to an abrupt halt, is a cooperative effort,” I wrote at the time. “Partnerships, relationships rooted in respect, open communications and empathy. What does that look like? It begins with the belief that when African leaders, businesses, and organizations say the timing is not right to end our fossil fuel operations, we have a point. That when we are discussing our own countries, we know what we are talking about.”
Clearly, we still have progress to make. Too many outsiders suggest that African leaders are being manipulated or influenced by greed when they work to foster oil and gas exploration and production in their countries. Few seem to believe that, when countries establish and fine-tune local content laws, adapt investor-friendly fiscal regimes, and promote policy that protects human dignity, they are making reasoned, strategic moves to create better futures for their people.
That saddens me, but it also strengthens my resolve. We will continue to fight for what's right, for what's ours. We are not giving up on a just energy transition for Africa — a transition on a timetable that benefits and uplifts Africans.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.African Refiners & Distributors Association (ARDA) Executive Secretary Joins African Energy Chamber’s G20 Forum Amid $20B Downstream Investment Drive
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Anibor Kragha, Executive Secretary of the African Refiners & Distributors Association (ARDA), has joined the G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum – taking place November 21 in Johannesburg – as a speaker. Connecting global finance with African energy projects, the forum will chart new pathways for strengthening the continent's energy value chain. Kragha's participation underscores the growing emphasis on downstream development as a catalyst for industrialization and is expected to support dialogue around Africa's path towards energy security.
Increasing investments in Africa's downstream sector has emerged as a top priority for many nations. The continent's refined product demand is set to rise from 4 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2024 to 6 million bpd by 2050, driven by population growth and increased economic activity. Gasoline consumption is projected to reach 2.2 million bpd by 2050, diesel consumption will rise 50% and jet fuel and kerosene is expected to expand 65%, reaching 465,000 bpd during the same timeframe. To meet anticipated demand growth, the African Energy Chamber's (AEC) State of African Energy 2026 Outlook highlights that $20 billion in investment in downstream infrastructure is required by 2050. The G20 Forum will serve as a bridge between global capital and African downstream projects.
Recent months have seen a series of milestones achieved across Africa's downstream sector, with advancements in refining and pipeline projects supporting regional distribution. Nigeria's Dangote oil refinery is advancing towards full operational capacity following the start of operations in 2024. The 650,000-bpd refinery is Africa's largest facility and is assessing expansion plans which would double output to 1.4 million bpd. Angola inaugurated the Cabinda oil refinery in 2025, introducing 30,000 bpd to the market. The country is also seeking investment to support the development of the 200,000 bpd Lobito facility while pursuing the construction of a 100,000-bpd facility in Soyo. Senegal is exploring the development of a second refinery – paired with a petrochemical plant – at its Société Africaine de Raffinage facility. The project aims to increase capacity from 1.5 million tons per annum (mtpa) to 5 mtpa. In the Republic of Congo, the Fouta Refinery is on track for production by the end of 2025 with a capacity of 2.5 mtpa, while South Africa has announced plans to rehabilitate the SAPREF facility, with goals to increase capacity from 180,000 bpd to 600,000 bpd once operations resume.
Beyond refining, African states are advancing pipeline projects with a view to increase exports and strengthen regional trade systems. The 1,443-km East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline – connecting Uganda's Kingfisher and Tilenga oilfields with the Port of Tanga in Tanzania – is underway and will start operations in 2026. The $25 billion Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline is nearing the start of construction, with the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Project Company established in October 2025. The pipeline will traverse 13 African countries along the Atlantic coast, connecting Nigerian gas fields with European markets. Agreements have also been signed between the Republic of Congo and Russia for the construction of the Pointe-Noire-Loutete-Maloujou-Trechot oil pipeline and between Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea for the development of a joint natural gas pipeline, designed to increase cross-border gas trade. These developments will not only increase regional fuel distribution but lower costs and support economic development across Africa.
Kragha's participation comes as African nations rally behind downstream infrastructure development under broader efforts to reduce fuel imports, increase storage and refining capacity and strengthen intra-African supply chains. Platforms such as the upcoming G20 Forum offer a strategic opportunity for African nations to connect with global investors, addressing key challenges across the downstream industry and implementing actionable strategies for improving fuel security.
“Africa cannot build a secure energy future if it remains dependent on imported fuels. Investing in our downstream sector is how we create real value. By refining our own crude, building local industries and ensuring energy access that supports economic growth, Africa can reduce costs, enhance fuel security and support long-term economic growth,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC.
To register for the Forum click here (https://apo-opa.co/4ozitCH).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
