Tag: Jobs
Africa targets $5 Billion Project Pipeline as Green Economy Summit Returns for Fourth Edition
The critical climate negotiations at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, are underscoring the urgent need to translate global ambition into tangible investment and action. This imperative resonates directly with the upcoming fourth edition of the Africa's Green Economy Summit (AGES), scheduled for 24–27 February 2026 at the Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town. Africa's transition to a climate-resilient, low-carbon future will take centre stage at the event—powered by lead partner Sanlam Investments. This year's edition underscores a shared commitment to accelerating investment into Africa's green and blue economies at a defining moment for global climate action.
Organised by the VUKA Group under the theme “From Ambition to Action: Scaling Investment in Africa's Green and Blue Solutions,” AGES 2026 will bring together institutional investors, development finance institutions, innovators, governments and sustainability leaders intent on unlocking climate-aligned capital for the continent's most pressing development priorities. With more than 580 delegates, over 150 investors, and 200 project developers expected, the Summit reflects a growing pipeline of investment opportunities estimated at USD 5 billion across renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, climate-smart agriculture, digital climate intelligence, adaptation technologies and climate finance platforms.
“Africa stands at the frontier of both climate risk and innovation,” says Emmanuelle Nicholls, Portfolio Director for the Green Economy at VUKA Group. “AGES exists to bridge that gap by connecting scalable, investment-ready projects with partners who can finance measurable impact.”
The AGES 2026 agenda reflects COP30's heightened emphasis on scaling climate and nature finance, advancing system-wide reforms, and accelerating the operationalisation of country platforms that can turn national climate plans into bankable project pipelines. With growing global attention on biodiversity and emerging nature credit mechanisms, as well as COP30's clear push for digital MRV, AI-enabled climate intelligence, and greater transparency, the programme highlights the evolving tools reshaping the climate investment landscape.
Through sessions exploring Article 6 cooperation, nature and biodiversity finance, climate-resilient infrastructure, water and city systems, industrial decarbonisation, and the role of digitalisation in strengthening trust and integrity, AGES 2026 positions African stakeholders at the forefront of designing investment-ready pathways for a just and nature-positive transition.
Speakers across this year's edition reflect the depth of expertise shaping Africa's climate and finance landscape:
- Barbara Buchner, Global Managing Director, Climate Policy Initiative
- Catherine-Candice Koffman, Regional Director Africa, Green Climate Fund
- Dorah Modise, Executive Director, Presidential Climate Commission
- Andrew Johnstone, CEO, Climate Fund Managers
- David Obura, Chair, IPBES
- Matsi Modise, Africa Lead, World Climate Foundation
A central feature of AGES 2026, the Investment Pitch and Showcase Programme, returns with a curated pipeline of vetted projects presented directly to investors. These include proposals in renewable energy, battery storage, climate-resilient water systems, mobility electrification, waste-to-value innovation, circularity, climate-smart agriculture and resilience technologies. The 40 projects range from early-stage USD 1 million concepts to industrial-scale ventures exceeding USD 100 million, attracting participation from DFIs, venture capital firms, commercial banks, blended-finance platforms and corporate climate investment vehicles.
The Summit will also host technical site visits across Cape Town, showing how climate investments translate into jobs, competitiveness and long-term resilience.
AGES 2026 is anchored by a broad network of continental and global partners. Alongside Sanlam Investments, institutional partners include:
- The Global Green Growth Institute
- Climate Policy Initiative
- Convergence
- Wesgro
- The City of Cape Town
- Regional policymakers, municipal authorities and leading private-sector sustainability actors.
Their involvement ensures the Summit drives year-round capital mobilisation, not just dialogue.
As global competition for climate finance intensifies, AGES 2026 offers a platform for Africa to articulate its climate investment agenda with clarity and ambition, grounded in data, policy frameworks and the continent's vast natural and human capital. With five years remaining in the UN SDG decade of action, the Summit stands as both a milestone and a measure of Africa's readiness to translate climate ambition into investable, scalable action.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.Media enquiries and interview requests:
Nomsa Mdhluli
Nomsa@tishalacommunications.com
+27 71 628 6231
Elize Engle
Pr1@tishalacommunications.com
+27 82 762 4946
Tshepang Mokoena
Pr@tishalacommunications.com
+27 76 682 9608
Registration enquiries:
Mzamo Jika – mzamo.jika@wearevuka.com
More information or registration: www.GreenEconomySummit.com
To download the event brochure, click here (https://apo-opa.co/44nkUjs).
30th Conference of the Parties (COP30): African Development Bank Group’s (AfDB) Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) mobilises nearly EUR50 million in new commitments...
The African Development Bank Group's Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) (www.AfDB.org), a multi-donor special fund managed by the Bank Group, has secured new investment commitments totalling nearly EUR 50 million, to strengthen the rollout of Mission 300 (https://apo-opa.co/48qxL74) and accelerate climate action across Africa's power sector.
The commitments, made by the governments of Germany and Italy, were announced at a COP30 side event held at the Africa Pavilion on 14 November. Germany committed EUR 14 million to support SEFA's universal energy access goal, and EUR 30 million for the new SEFA green hydrogen programme, reflecting the strategic importance of this emerging sector for Africa's decarbonisation and industrial development. Italy also announced a new contribution of five million euros to the fund.
Dr Katharina Stasch, Director-General for Climate Policy of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), said: “We see the Africa-owned and Africa-led African Development Bank as an excellent partner in unlocking the potential of a green hydrogen economy for African countries.
“By working together, we can create a ‘win–win': partner countries benefit from new energy resources, industrial development, technology transfer, and new jobs while Europe diversifies its future energy imports. Through our partnership with the African Development Bank and SEFA, we hope to create positive tipping points for the market ramp-up of green hydrogen.”
Roberto Amerise, Director for General Affairs, Financial Programmes, and International Cooperation at the Italian Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security (MASE), highlighted the strong commitment of the Italian Government towards Africa, considered a priority for national energy and climate policies. He stressed the importance of encouraging private investment to accelerate the continent's energy transition and sustainable development. Amerise also announced a new contribution of 5 million euros to the SEFA Special Fund for 2025.
"These resources," he said, "reaffirm our collective commitment to advancing SEFA's strategic objectives and accelerating the implementation of renewable energy and energy access projects in Africa that drive sustainable development."
Commenting on the new commitments, Dr Kevin Kariuki, Vice-President, Power, Energy, Climate Change and Green Growth, AfDB, said: "Today's deliberations and commitments at COP30 powerfully reaffirm the urgent need for a unified, bolder approach to Africa's energy transition, resilience and security. The new commitments from Germany and Italy will constitute wind in the sails for Mission 300 goals and solidify SEFA's centrality in Africa's universal energy access journey".
The event, moderated by Dr Daniel Schroth, the Bank's Director for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, also acknowledged the ongoing support from partners like Norway, with Hans Olav Ibrekk, Special Envoy for Climate, reiterating the country's commitment to mobilising private sector investments for the success of Mission 300.
A central theme of the event was the vital role of blended finance in de-risking investments and attracting commercial capital to achieve M300 goals. Attendees learned about projects such as the landmark Obelisk facility in Egypt – a 1 GW Solar PV and 200 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) co-financed by AfDB and SEFA – with insights shared by Terje Pilskog, CEO of Scatec.
The discussions also featured the impactful work of BURN, a successful African clean cooking company and SEFA grant recipient. Caroline Amollo, BURN's Director of Corporate Affairs, demonstrated through their proven market operations how innovative models are effectively driving affordability and widespread adoption.
Speakers highlighted the importance of predictable and attractive regulatory frameworks to attract private capital for a just and equitable energy transition, focusing on bankable, scalable, and human-centred projects, especially in clean cooking. They also stressed the need to leverage declining renewable energy costs through efficient deployment of development funding. The event reinforced collective commitment to integrating energy transition cooperation within broader climate diplomacy, demonstrating that with concerted effort, the goals of M300 and the broader climate ambitions articulated at COP30 are attainable.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).Media Contact:
Communication and External Relations
media@afdb.org
Making Universal Energy Access Africa’s Top Climate Priority (By Rolake Akinkugbe-Filani)
By Rolake Akinkugbe-Filani - CEO, EnergyInc Advisors (www.EnergyIncAdvisors.com) /Global Energy Finance and Strategy Leader
With COP30 underway in Belém, Brazil, the global community is once again confronted with the urgency of climate action. For Africa however, the conversation must begin with a more fundamental question: how do we power the continent so that climate ambition does not outpace development reality?
While advanced economies frame climate progress around how quickly they can retire fossil fuels, Africa's challenge is more foundational. Millions still lack reliable electricity. Without power, factories cannot operate, digital economies cannot thrive, and essential services - from hospitals to schools - remain constrained. Energy access is not merely a development aspiration. It is the bedrock upon which climate adaptation, resilience, and long-term economic transformation rest.
A transition that must be sequenced, not rushed
Africa's clean energy potential is undeniable; abundant solar irradiation, strong wind corridors, hydro resources and world-class geothermal prospects. But potential alone will not close the energy gap. Grid constraints, weak storage systems, and limited industrial-scale capacity mean the transition must be phased and sequenced.
Renewables cannot shoulder the entire burden today. Managed, time-bound use of transitional fuels, including natural gas, remains essential to stabilising grids, supporting industry, and powering cities. This is not a call for indefinite fossil fuel dependence, but for a pragmatic pathway that allows Africa to scale clean energy without undermining growth.
Africa's priorities at COP30: clarity and ambition
Africa produces less than 4 percent of global emissions but absorbs a disproportionate share of the climate fallout, droughts, floods, food insecurity, and displaced communities. Yet climate finance flows to the continent remain slow, fragmented, and heavily skewed toward mitigation rather than the adaptation Africa urgently needs.
At COP30, Africa's message is focused and uncompromising (https://apo-opa.co/4psssKd):
- A new global climate finance target: no less than $1.3 trillion annually by 2030, with a significantly higher share allocated to adaptation, resilience and concessional finance.
- A fully operationalised Loss and Damage Fund, designed to deliver predictable, timely support without adding to Africa's debt burdens.
- A just and inclusive energy transition, one that recognises Africa's right to industrialise, create jobs and expand access while lowering emissions in a responsible and realistic way.
- Recognition of Africa's natural ecosystems - forests, mangroves, peatlands - as global public goods, deserving of sustained financing and market mechanisms that reward their stewardship.
Universal energy access must be the anchor of Africa's climate roadmap
African governments and their partners must weave energy access into the heart of climate policy. This means scaling renewable energy investments, strengthening grids, reforming utilities, and designing transition pathways that reflect Africa's demographics, industrial goals, and financing constraints.
Transitional fuels will continue to play a bridging role, but with transparent timelines and a clear strategy for shifting to cleaner sources as infrastructure matures. What Africa needs is not a binary choice between fossil and renewable, but a plan that delivers power where it is needed most, reliably, affordably, and sustainably.
Because as the world races toward net zero, the continent cannot remain energy-poor. A climate strategy that does not lift African households, clinics and schools out of energy poverty is neither just nor durable.
At COP30, the message must be unmistakable, it is that Africa's development cannot be deferred, and energy access is central to that vision. A fair global climate future begins with a lit Africa, one where power enables productivity, resilience, and opportunity for all.
Driving Africa's energy future through homegrown solutions
Africa's transition will not be unlocked by ambition alone; it will be unlocked by sequencing and by capital. The continent cannot afford a transition model that demands synchronisation with wealthier economies while our grids remain weak and our capital systems under leveraged. With over $900 billion in pension, insurance, and sovereign assets, Africa holds significant pools of domestic capital that remain largely absent from energy infrastructure. The real opportunity now is to finance Africa's transition with Africa's money, in the right order: strengthen grids, scale renewables, and phase out transitional fuels as capacity deepens.
A transition that is both sequenced and self-financed is not only more realistic; it is the most sustainable path to universal energy access and long-term climate resilience.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of EnergyInc Advisors.Television: An African culture engine
Television – both its content and its technology – has become the backbone of African culture. As the world marks World Television Day, Dr Busola Tejumola, MultiChoice Executive Head (www.MultiChoice.com), General Entertainment Channels, assesses the impact of a platform still bringing people together after 65+ years on the continent.
As we mark World TV Day, the light that television shines on our society remains undimmed. TV remains one of humanity's greatest connectors. It informs, educates, inspires and entertains – but more importantly, it helps people see themselves and each other in powerful new ways.
Since TV arrived in Africa in 1959, with the launch of Western Nigeria Television, TV has been a vehicle for social connection, cultural exchange and national pride. It gives us shared moments – whether through sports, news or drama – which shape our collective memory.
Africa's entertainment ecosystem
MultiChoice, a CANAL+ company, is Africa's most-loved provider of television entertainment, and incredibly proud of our role in building Africa's entertainment ecosystem.
Since our launch in 1985, MultiChoice has evolved (https://apo-opa.co/49Zelr6) to consistently meet the needs of African audiences. SuperSport launched in 1986; our analogue service reached 20 countries by 1992; we launched digital satellite technology in 1995; and app-based television in 2014. The Showmax streaming service appeared in 2015.
The Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA) has grown into a continental celebration of creative excellence in television. The MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) has produced 486 graduates and continues to train and empower the makers of TV content across the continent.
Constant tech innovation
We've learned that constant technological evolution is key to maintain the relevance of television in the lives our viewers. Our innovation journey has been driven by customer needs. From HD and 4K broadcasts to the DStv Explora and Catch Up, we have continuously developed how people consume content.
The recent rollout of our DStv Stream and the new Showmax platforms has been another leap forward in delivering content across devices while offering personalised recommendations powered by advanced analytics.
We've also made strides in local-language interfaces, adaptive streaming, and user-friendly payment, making our technology both inclusive and empowering.
Technology brings wider audiences into the TV ecosystem – across urban and rural areas, and income levels. Through digital migration, mobile viewing, and flexible subscription options, more Africans can now access quality entertainment without limitation.
For people and planet
At MultiChoice, we've also come to understand that accessibility means more than just availability – it can also help to ensure that every viewer sees themselves and their culture in Africa's storytelling journey.
Television has also become a vehicle for ESG impact. On the environmental front, we're embracing energy-efficient decoders, eco-friendly packaging, and responsible e-waste practices through decoder take-backs and other initiatives.
Socially, our investments in local content production, skills development through MTF, and community storytelling creates sustainable jobs and cultural capital across Africa. From a governance standpoint, we deploy the latest TV technology for content protection, consumer data privacy and responsible advertising.
Enriching lives
Ultimately, television should add value to people's lives. People want choice, relevance and control. That means providing diverse content offerings, innovative products and personalised experiences.
Today DStv and GOtv offer bouquets priced from US$1, to 50+ countries across Africa, offering subscribers up to 156 linear video channels. The Showmax service is available in 44 markets. Affordable TV platform GOtv launched in 2011 and now reaches eight markets.
We've also learned that true customer value comes from giving people content that resonates, informs and entertains — all while keeping it accessible and affordable.
Television's impact reaches far beyond local markets. Thanks to the power of modern connectivity, the stories of our African creators now travel beyond borders – from Nigeria to Kenya, South Africa to Ghana, and to audiences worldwide – through Showmax and our international content partnerships.
Content like Big Brother Naija, Shake iLembe, the AMVCAs, as well as SuperSport events like the Olympic Games, the FIFA World Cup and CAF Afcon football have become continental touchstones.
Television has also become a bridge connecting Africa to the world and the world to Africa. MultiChoice is proud to have helped to build that that bridge.
At the same time, local content is the soul of African television. It preserves our languages, celebrates our traditions, and projects our creativity to the world. Through regional channels like Africa Magic, Maisha Magic and Zambezi Magic, we've witnessed firsthand how shared storytelling promotes understanding and unity among African nations.
Television has also become a driver of content economies. We've come to understand how commissioning new shows at scale nurtures small business and sustains thousands of creative and technical jobs across African value chains. We produced 5 340 hours of local content in FY2025.
TV evolution
The television landscape is evolving rapidly. We see the rise of hybrid viewing – where linear TV and on-demand streaming complement each other. Personalisation, AI-driven content recommendations, and mobile-first consumption are reshaping how audiences engage.
Local content remains king – audiences want authenticity, representation, and stories that reflect their realities. The future of TV will be driven by data, powered by technology, and grounded in human connection.
For MultiChoice, our strategic focus is to remain Africa's leading storyteller and most trusted entertainment partner. We continue investing in local productions, innovative technology and creative talent development.
Television has shown itself to be an invaluable conduit for culture in all of its forms. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that every African household has access to diverse, high-quality entertainment that inspires pride, fosters connection, and enriches lives – one story at a time.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.Volunteer Opportunity: Executive Assistant for the Roman Catholic Church in Africa’s Communications Volunteer Programme
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As part of the voluntary communications programme managed pro bono by APO Group (https://APO-opa.com) to support the Roman Catholic Church in Africa, we are seeking an experienced Executive Assistant to support the leadership team within the volunteer programme.
Location: Remote (Europe or Africa)
Type: Volunteer (Unpaid)
Commitment: 10 - 15 hours per week, for at least 6 months
About the Role
This volunteer position is ideal for a professional with a minimum of 4 years of administrative experience and a proven record of managing calendar schedules, correspondence, and coordination tasks at a high standard of professionalism and discretion.
Working closely with the Chairman's Office and Senior Leadership, the Executive Assistant will play a key role in ensuring efficient operations and communication across teams and departments.
The Volunteer Programme works within the European and African time zones. Due to this commitment, we are only accepting applicants from within the European or African time zones.
As the Executive Assistant, you will:
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Provide high-level administrative and operational support to the leadership team.
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Manage calendars, coordinate meetings, and assist with project follow-ups.
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Set up and join weekly team meetings, taking detailed minutes and tracking action items.
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Draft and review correspondence, reports, and presentations.
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Maintain organized digital filing systems and ensure document confidentiality.
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Serve as a key communication link between leadership, staff, and external partners.
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Support the preparation and documentation of meetings, including action items and next steps.
More information about the Roman Catholic Church in Africa's Communications Volunteer Programme:
Requirements
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Minimum 4 years of experience in an executive assistant, administrative, or coordination role.
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English (French or Portuguese is a plus).
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Exceptional organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize effectively.
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High level of professionalism, integrity, and discretion when handling sensitive information.
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Proficiency in Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams).
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Availability for at least 10 to 15 hours per week, for a minimum of 6 months (fully remote).
What We Offer
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The opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the mission of the Roman Catholic Church in Africa.
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High-level executive experience in an international, faith-driven environment.
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The chance to expand your professional network across Africa and globally.
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A multicultural and collaborative setting that values service, purpose, and professional excellence.
This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the Church's noble mission, while also enhancing your professional experience, strengthening your CV, and broadening your international network.
I M P O R T A N T: Only applicants who complete the form below will be considered.
APPLY here: https://apo-opa.co/4oOrO9X
The Catholic Church operates 82,235 Catholic Schools in Africa, educating 30,629,476 pupils. Its extensive network of care includes 13,880 facilities such as hospitals, clinics, dispensaries, leprosy centres, homes for the elderly and chronically ill, centres for disabled people, orphanages, kindergartens, and marriage counselling centres.
According to the 2022 State of the World's Volunteerism Report compiled by the United Nations, the global number of volunteers stands at 862.4 million. Embracing volunteerism provides individuals with unparalleled firsthand professional experience, allowing them to enrich their CVs with valuable expertise gained through meaningful contributions.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group Jobs.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 Agency of the Year South Africa in 2024 and again in 2025 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.
Egypt: Her Excellency (H.E.) Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation Holds Extensive Talks with Her German Counterpart During the Joint Governmental Negotiations...
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- H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat: The success of the Egyptian–German negotiations reflects the strength of economic relations between both countries.
- The Egypt–EU Strategic Partnership provides a broad framework for deeper cooperation with European nations.
- Egypt is discussing with Germany the expansion of the Debt Swap Program for Development and Climate Action.
- Germany is a key partner in supporting Egypt's green transition in the energy sector.
- Development cooperation has opened major avenues for increased foreign investment in renewable energy.
- Egyptian–German relations offer promising opportunities for joint cooperation across all sectors.
- Egypt looks forward to more German investments and stronger commercial partnerships.
- Germany is a principal partner for Egypt within the broader strategic relations with the European Union.
- Greater coordination is expected in the coming period to implement signed agreements and widen the scope of cooperation.
H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, held a bilateral meeting with H.E. Ms. Reem Alabali-Radovan, Germany's Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, on the sidelines of the Egyptian–German Governmental Negotiations held in Berlin. The meeting included extensive discussions on all aspects of bilateral partnership in development cooperation, as well as economic, trade, and investment relations.
At the outset of the meeting, H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat emphasized the depth and longstanding nature of the partnership between Egypt and Germany, noting that the Egyptian–German Governmental Negotiations are not only an important milestone in a decades-long relationship, but also a strategic dialogue shaping the next phase of development cooperation. She expressed Egypt's appreciation for Minister Alabali-Radovan's visit to Cairo in July 2025—her first bilateral visit following the formation of the new German government—reflecting Egypt's prominent position on Germany's development agenda.
The talks reviewed the latest developments in bilateral cooperation in areas including the green transition, renewable energy, industrial localization, education, and water, while exploring new opportunities within financial cooperation agreements and the Egyptian–German Debt Swap Program. The two sides also discussed progress in ongoing programs and joint projects in priority sectors aligned with Egypt's national development plans.
H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat commended the Debt Swap Program for Development between Egypt and Germany, which continues to witness the signing of new tranches, highlighting its pioneering role in promoting innovative financing mechanisms in Egypt and advancing the transition to renewable energy and a green economy. She noted that further discussions will take place with the German side to expand the program in the coming period.
The Minister explained that debt swaps have evolved into an increasingly important innovative financing tool globally due to their role in enhancing financial sustainability, stimulating investment, and redirecting part of external debt toward development projects with direct impact on key sectors—particularly the green transition, infrastructure, and efforts to ease fiscal pressures on the state budget.
She added that development cooperation with Germany has contributed significantly to attracting foreign direct investment, especially in the renewable energy sector. Given the promising opportunities across various fields, Egypt is looking forward to increased German investment and greater trade exchange. She affirmed that the coming period will witness intensified coordination to activate signed agreements and expand cooperation frameworks.
H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat emphasized that Egypt is working to broaden international partnerships beyond traditional development cooperation to include wider frameworks for investment, joint economic efforts, and shared development goals.
The Minister also reviewed the positive developments in Egypt's economic performance, noting that GDP growth reached approximately 5% in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2024/2025—up from 2.4% in the same quarter of the previous year—marking the highest quarterly growth rate in three years. This improvement was driven by structural reforms and the shift to medium-term planning under the Unified Public Finance Law. She added that fiscal reforms under the IMF program helped reduce inflation, improve external financing inflows, and modernize the tax system and targeted social protection mechanisms.
During the meeting, she highlighted Egypt's Narrative for Economic Development: Reforms for Growth, Jobs & Resilience, which offers a comprehensive framework linking Egypt's Vision 2030 with economic and sectoral policies. The narrative provides greater clarity and transparency for development partners, enabling Germany to contribute more effectively to improving the investment climate, creating jobs, and achieving inclusive growth.
H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat also referenced the Egypt–EU Summit, co-chaired by H.E. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and the President of the European Commission, as an affirmation of the depth of Egypt–EU relations and the importance of the strategic partnership as a broad platform for enhanced cooperation with individual European states.
The two sides also discussed the current portfolio of Egyptian–German development cooperation, which exceeds €1.8 billion, in addition to progress in the NWFE Program and ongoing collaboration in green hydrogen, energy efficiency, and water.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation - Egypt.Eastern Cape National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Delegation Kick-Starts Provincial Week Programme
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The Eastern Cape delegation of the permanent delegates to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) starts its visit to the province as part of the Provincial Week Programme with engagements with the Premier of the province, MECs and heads of departments.
The permanent delegates to the NCOP are on the Provincial Week- NCOP's flagship annual programme - to their home provinces to monitor challenges encountered during implementation of projects.
The Provincial Whip and the leader of the Eastern Cape delegation, Nkosi Mwelo Nonkonyane said the EC delegation was keen on understanding how those impacted by floods in the OR Tambo region were being accommodated.
He said: “We are also keen on how intervention by government to help our people is going. We will visit the infrastructure projects like the uMzimvubu Dam. Infrastructure was identified by government as key to creating jobs and growing the economy. We witness that in the Eastern Cape roads. It seems the province is a construction site and we want to see more.”
The delegation will be addressed by the Premier of the Eastern Cape, Mr Oscar Mabuyane this morning. To follow the meeting @ 09:00 click the link below:
https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZmFkZjYyMGMtZDU3Ny00N2RlLTlmYWQtODE1Zjg2N2I5NjVl%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22d61ad35c-26b3-4474-8411-9a9185035ac6%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22d8a2594b-6e1e-4ee9-9739-4217aecc6744%22%7d
Eskom’s Chief Nuclear Officer to Advance Africa’s Nuclear Agenda at AEC G20 Investment Forum
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Eskom's Chief Nuclear Officer, Velaphi Ntuli, is set to speak at the African Energy Chamber's (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org/) G20 African Energy Investment Forum, where he will spotlight the pivotal role of nuclear energy in shaping a reliable, sustainable and inclusive power future for Africa. As the continent intensifies efforts to expand access to affordable electricity and transition toward cleaner energy systems, Ntuli's participation comes at a time of renewed interest in nuclear technology as a cornerstone of long-term energy resilience.
Eskom's Koeberg Nuclear Power Station, located near Cape Town, is not only South Africa's sole nuclear power facility but also the largest in Africa. The plant has been a critical contributor to South Africa's energy stability since it was commissioned in the 1980s, providing around 5% of the country's electricity. Today, Koeberg stands as a symbol of Africa's engineering capabilities and a testament to the role nuclear energy can play in reducing carbon emissions while ensuring grid reliability.
Koeberg is undergoing a significant life extension project, aimed at extending the facility's operational lifespan by another 20 years and delivering approximately 1,860 MW of baseload power. The initiative represents a major milestone in Eskom's strategy to secure South Africa's electricity supply and underscores its commitment to maintaining nuclear power as part of a diversified energy mix – an essential factor in reducing the nation's dependence on coal and accelerating its path toward a low-carbon economy.
The AEC's G20 African Energy Investment Forum – held ahead of the G20 Summit – seeks to position Africa's energy sector at the center of global investment discussions. By bringing together African leaders, investors and development institutions, the forum will emphasize how targeted capital flows can transform Africa's energy landscape, create jobs and drive industrialization. Within this framework, Ntuli's contribution will be critical in highlighting how nuclear power can complement renewable energy, stabilize grids and support the manufacturing and industrial growth necessary for long-term economic development.
Nuclear power remains one of the most efficient and low-carbon energy sources available, offering baseload electricity that can underpin Africa's growing economies. As the global energy transition accelerates, many African nations are exploring nuclear energy not only as an alternative to fossil fuels, but as a catalyst for domestic industrialization, technology transfer and skills development. South Africa's experience through Eskom and Koeberg provides valuable lessons for other African countries looking to establish or expand their nuclear programs, including Ghana, Kenya and Egypt.
“Eskom's Koeberg station demonstrates what Africa can achieve when we commit to long-term, technically sound and locally driven energy solutions. As we work to make energy poverty history, nuclear power offers an opportunity for Africa to strengthen energy security, create high-quality jobs and drive industrial growth,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “The conversation at the G20 African Energy Investment Forum is about ensuring that Africa is not left behind in the global energy transition – and leaders like Ntuli are showing the way forward.”
As global energy markets evolve, the inclusion of Africa's nuclear ambitions in high-level investment discussions is both timely and essential. By bringing nuclear energy into the heart of the G20 agenda, the forum aims to attract new partnerships, enhance policy alignment and showcase Africa's readiness to lead in clean, reliable power generation.
To register for the Forum click here (https://apo-opa.co/3WWgNHa).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.South Africa’s South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI), South African Oil & Gas Association (SAOGA) and Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to Represent National...
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Leaders from three of South Africa's premier regulatory and energy institutions will take the spotlight at the African Energy Week G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum, taking place on November 21 in Johannesburg. The lineup includes Titus Mathe, CEO, South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI); Adrian Strydom, Executive Director and CEO, South African Oil & Gas Association (SAOGA); and a senior representative from the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC).
The participation of these institutions underscores South Africa's strong representation in discussions on energy development, investment and industrial growth across the continent.
In 2025, SANEDI has emphasized governance, energy efficiency and innovation, achieving an “outstanding performance” review for the 2024/25 financial year by meeting all performance targets and securing a fourth consecutive clean audit. The institute launched a digitalization laboratory to enhance national energy modelling and alignment with the Integrated Resource Plan 2025 and is promoting the registration of large buildings for Energy Performance Certificates before the December 7, 2025, deadline.
SANEDI also recently issued a request for proposals for an electric mobility project, partnered with financial institution Standard Bank's LookSee platform to introduce energy and carbon certification for homes, and has been directed by South Africa's Minister of Electricity and Energy Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa to develop recommendations to improve electricity affordability. Additionally, SANEDI has been appointed the Secretariat for the Energy Transitions Working Group under South Africa's G20 Presidency.
SAOGA continues to play an active role in supporting southern Africa's oil and gas industry through partnerships and policy engagement. In October 2025, the association led a trade mission to Namibia to explore opportunities arising from recent offshore discoveries and hydrogen developments, while also facilitating dialogue on the Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Act. The organization has leveraged its expertise to spotlight domestic gas resources for prospective investors, including the potential of the Orange Basin.
The IDC, meanwhile, continues to anchor South Africa's industrial finance landscape. In 2025, it raised R2 billion through its first sustainability bond, appointed Mmakgoshi Lekhethe as CEO and established a new board chaired by Gloria Serobe. The corporation recently signed a MoU with financial institution KfW Development Bank to bolster green hydrogen development and also recently reported strong investment activity in South Africa totaling R15.9 billion, leading to the creation of 17,826 jobs.
In August 2025, the IDC renewed its long-standing collaboration with the Public Investment Corporation through a new MoU, enabling joint investment and project co-development across multiple sectors. previous collaborations between the two entities led to significant renewable energy investments and the creation of thousands of jobs nationwide.
The presence of SANEDI, SAOGA and the IDC at the G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum highlights South Africa's leadership in advancing institutional cooperation, industrial development and investment-driven growth on the African continent.
“South Africa's institutions continue to play a critical role in shaping the continent's energy and industrial landscape. Their participation at the G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum reaffirms the importance of collaboration and investment in driving Africa's economic future,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.
To register for the Forum click here: http://apo-opa.co/47UKayN.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.Exciting News: Government Greenlights Launch of a New National Airline!
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
Afreximbank calls for Africa’s Sustainable Development and Industrialisation, Just Energy Transition at United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30)
At the ongoing 2025 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belem, Brazil, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) is strategically advocating for a climate agenda that aligns with Africa's sustainable development and industrialisation ambitions as outlined by its President, Dr. George Elombi.
The Bank's delegation is advocating for a pan-African climate narrative that builds on the outcomes of the African Climate Summits and previous COPs. Afreximbank's engagements are anchored on the core principles of the AU Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want, and emphasizes the critical role of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in building climate-resilient economies.
A central pillar of the Bank's advocacy involves mobilising climate finance primarily to support adaptation aspirations of its member countries and ensuring the swift and effective operationalisation of the Loss and Damage Fund. The Bank is also pushing for African countries, who are disproportionately affected by climate events despite contributing less than 4% of global emissions, to receive adequate compensation and to develop the necessary domestic structures to access these funds.
Aligned with President Dr. George Elombi's vision, Afreximbank is spotlighting the continent's immense potential in value addition and strategic minerals processing. Instead of exporting raw materials, the Bank is championing financing for entire value chains, such as transforming the Democratic Republic of Congo's lithium into batteries, to position Africa as a hub for clean technology and create high-skilled jobs.
The Bank is also urging for a just and equitable energy transition that recognizes Africa's right to address its energy poverty, which leaves over 600 million people without electricity. This includes a balanced approach that integrates renewable energy sources while responsibly utilising transitional fuels like natural gas to power industrialisation.
The Bank also seeks to draw attention to Africa's biodiversity which is a key source of climate resilience absorbing harmful emissions. Afreximbank is committed to helping its member countries to monetise their biodiversity to further help its fight against the debilitating impact of climate change.
Furthermore, Afreximbank is showcasing its financial initiatives, such as the Afreximbank Trade Transformation Fund (ATTF) as one of its key vehicles for de-risking and financing green projects across the continent.
At COP30, the Bank's participation includes high-level dialogues, thematic panels, and side events, including activities at the African Pavilion and a planned session with Liberia on establishing a carbon markets authority.
Commenting on Afreximbank's participation at COP30, Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development Bank at Afreximbank, stated:
“Our mission at COP30 is clear: to ensure that Africa's voice is not only heard but heeded. Our approach is one of proactive transformation, adding value to our abundant minerals, powering our industries with a sustainable energy mix, and leveraging the AfCFTA to build resilient, integrated economies. We are leveraging our influence to mobilise Global African capital and demand a globally recognised and supported framework for our continent's just energy transition that ensures comprehensive climate action actively serves and reinforces Africa's ambitions for development and industrialisation.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.Media Contact:
Vincent Musumba
Manager, Communications and Events (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), 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.


