Tag: Retail

African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) has successfully closed its second Samurai bond transaction, securing a total of JPY 81.8 billion (approx. USD 527 million) through Regular and Retail Samurai Bonds offerings.

The execution surpasses the Bank's 2024 debut issuance size, attracting orders from more than 100 institutional and retail investors, marking a renewed demonstration of strong Japanese investor confidence in the Bank's credit and its growing presence in the yen capital markets.

On 18 November, Afreximbank priced a JPY 45.8 billion 3-year tranche in the Regular Samurai market following a comprehensive sequence of investor engagement activities leveraging Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), including Non-Deal Roadshows (NDRs) in Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Shiga and Osaka, a Global Investor Call, and a two-day soft-sounding process which tested investor appetite across 2.5-, 3-, 5-, 7-, and 10-year maturities. With market expectations of a Bank of Japan interest rate increase, investor demand concentrated in shorter tenors, resulting in a focused 3-year tranche during official marketing.

The tranche attracted strong participation from asset managers (22.3%), life insurers (15.3%), regional corporates, and high-net-worth investors (39.7%). Concurrently, Afreximbank priced its second Retail Samurai bond on 18 November, a JPY 36.0 billion 3-year tranche—more than double the inaugural JPY 14.1 billion Retail Samurai issuance completed in November 2024. The 2025 Retail Samurai bond also marks the first Retail Samurai bond issued in Japan in 2025.

Following the amendment to Afreximbank's shelf registration on 7 November 2025, SMBC Nikko conducted an extensive seven-business-day demand survey through its nationwide branch network, followed by a six-business-day bond offering period. The offering benefited from strong visibility supported by Afreximbank's investor engagement across the country, including the Bank's participation at TICAD9, where Afreximbank hosted the Africa Finance Seminar to introduce Multinational Development Bank's mandate in Africa and its credit profile to key Japanese institutional investors.

SMBC Nikko Securities Inc. acted as Sole Lead Manager and Bookrunner for both the Regular and Retail Samurai transactions.

Chandi Mwenebungu, Afreximbank's Managing Director, Treasury & Markets and Group Treasurer, commented:

“We are pleased with the successful completion of our second Samurai bond transactions, which marked a significant increase from our inaugural Retail Samurai bond in 2024, and which reflect the growing depth of our relationship with Japanese investors. The strong demand, both in the Regular and Retail offerings, demonstrates sustained confidence in Afreximbank's credit and mandate. We remain committed to deepening our engagement in the Samurai market through regular investor activities and continued collaboration with our Japanese partners.”

Media Contact:
Vincent Musumba
Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations)
Email: press@afreximbank.com

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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 (Baa1), 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.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

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The WomenIN Festival 2025 (http://WeAreWomenIN.com/) wrapped up a powerful two-day celebration at Newlands Cricket Ground on 13–14 November, bringing together hundreds of women from across South Africa for an immersive programme focused on empowerment, leadership development, wellbeing, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, creativity and social impact.

Guided by the theme “Limitless: No Labels. No Limits. No Apologies,” the festival created space for meaningful conversations, real connections and practical tools designed to support women across every dimension of their lives.

The curated programme included panel discussions, interactive dialogues, wellness conversations, entrepreneurship sessions, financial literacy masterclasses and storytelling-focused engagements. Each segment was designed to explore identity, leadership, resilience, innovation and holistic wellbeing.

Leigh-Anne Williams, acclaimed Radio & TV Presenter, guided the programme as MC. Her vibrant personality, dynamic delivery and warm connection with the audience created an atmosphere of energy and unity, anchoring the festival's flow across the two days.

With the event taking place during South Africa's national Entrepreneurship Month, the festival placed a strong emphasis on business and economic empowerment. Women were equipped with practical tools for starting and scaling businesses, understanding financial behaviour and navigating the realities of entrepreneurship.

Empowerment partner FNB led key sessions on financial literacy and business growth. Reflecting on the festival's impact, Nicole Sykes, the Head of Women in Business, FNB shared: “WomenIN brings together courage, collaboration and practical tools in a way that genuinely empowers women. The women who attended left with financial knowledge, business skills, emotional resilience and personal safety strategies that will continue to uplift them long after these two days.”

Raksha Naidoo, Chair of Women in Mining South Africa and CEO of the Particle Group, offered an important perspective on women transforming one of the country's most male-dominated industries. Her insights centred on structural change, decisive leadership and expanding real influence for women across the sector.

Thando Hopa, Cultural Leader for the African Albinism Network, lawyer, activist, fashion model and UN Ambassador for Diversity and Inclusion, delivered a profound session exploring representation, identity and the power of narrative — highlighting how culture, policy and media shape society's understanding of women.

Joni Peddie, Vice President of the Global Speakers Federation and behavioural strategist, shared insights on emotional agility, resilience and intentional leadership. Her contribution reminded women of the importance of leading from self-awareness and authenticity.

The women in sport conversation featuring Babalwa Latsha highlighted the rise of women's rugby and the resilience of female athletes breaking new ground. She spoke about investment gaps, visibility, cultural perceptions and the importance of creating pathways that allow young women to see sport as a viable, respected career.

In the Wellness Resolution session, Dr. Kate Klaasen and Dr. Simone Silver explored burnout as a growing concern for women, emphasising an integrated approach to wellbeing across physical, emotional, social and spiritual spheres.

The festival also featured a powerful gender-based violence session titled Breaking the Silence, Rebuilding Lives. Moderated by GBV Advocate & COO - Women For Change (https://apo-opa.co/44ok8ms), Merlize Jogiat, the discussion brought together MOSAIC and Women For Change to address the silence that often surrounds the trauma of GBV in South Africa. The session amplified survivor voices, called for systemic change and shared practical tools for healing, safety and support — offering clear pathways toward empowerment and justice.

Marketplace: A Celebration of Women-Owned Brands

The marketplace added a vibrant dimension to the festival, showcasing a wide range of women-owned brands across beauty, wellness, fashion, jewellery, food, homeware and lifestyle essentials. It created a lively space where entrepreneurs shared their stories and connected with customers. The marketplace reinforced WomenIN's commitment to uplifting women economically and supporting small businesses.

The festival concluded with a personal safety session led by Fight Back SA, offering practical awareness tools that supported the festival's broader mission to empower women mentally, emotionally, economically and physically.

Festival Founder Nazlee Fredericks-Maharaj, Founding Portfolio Director of WomenIN Festival stated: “This year reminded us of the power that unfolds when women gather with purpose and without apology. When women refuse to be boxed and boldly own their space — holistically and phenomenally — systems shift. WomenIN 2025 brought that vision to life in the most powerful and authentic way. We are already shaping something extraordinary for WomenIN 2026. For those who missed it this year — this wasn't just a festival, it was a revolution. In 2026, it's coming back louder, bolder and more unapologetic than ever.”

The event concluded with the prestigious 2025 Good Hope FM Warrior Women Awards, recognising women whose leadership and impact continue to shape industries, communities and national narratives.

For press & media enquiries or interviews please contact: 
Tishala Communications
Elize Engle
pr1@tishalacommunications.com
063 574 5249

About WomenIN (WiN):
WomenIN (WiN) is a dynamic women's empowerment portfolio within the VUKA Group, dedicated to inspiring, supporting, and uplifting women from all walks of life. WiN creates platforms for connection, collaboration, and capacity-building across sectors including mining, mobility, energy, gaming, green economy, customer experience, and more. Through in-person events, masterclasses, wellness activations, and networking initiatives, WiN fosters leadership, amplifies voices, and drives lasting impact.

For more information, visit www.WeAreWomenIN.com

About VUKA Group:
VUKA Group brings people and organisations together to connect through platforms that drive growth and transformation across Africa's industries. With over 20 years of experience on the continent, VUKA delivers sector-leading platforms across Energy, Mining, Mobility, Retail, and Women Empowerment.

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DRC Mining Week, organised annually by VUKA Group (https://WeAreVUKA.com/) in Lubumbashi, has been awarded “Event of the Year” at the Katanga Awards, reaffirming its status as the leading platform for mining investment, project development, and economic transformation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

According to VUKA Group, the recognition comes at a particularly meaningful moment, as DRC Mining Week celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2025. This milestone reflects two decades of partnership, dialogue, and sector advancement in the DRC's mining heartland.

For over a decade, DRC Mining Week has been the country's most influential meeting point for investment mobilisation, infrastructure development, and public-private collaboration. Each edition brings together:

• international and local investors
• mining operators and juniors
• project developers
• financial institutions
• OEMs and EPCs
• government ministries and regulators
• and longstanding institutional partners, including the Federation of Congolese Enterprises (FEC) and the Chamber of Mines of the DRC

all aligned around unlocking the full potential of the DRC's world-class mineral wealth.

2025: Record achievement
This year's 20th anniversary edition marked a historic milestone with:

• 16,500+ total attendees
• 1,115 delegates, including
  • 129 VIPs
  • 88 speakers
• 300+ sponsors and exhibitors
• Participation from 50+ countries
   

DRC Mining Week also featured 25+ high-level conference sessions focused on industrialisation, energy security, infrastructure expansion, beneficiation, and sustainable development—reinforcing its position as the DRC's most influential platform for mining investment and sector growth.

Honouring national leadership and strategic partners

VUKA Group recognises and appreciates the continued support of the DRC Government and its key institutions. Their collaboration plays a pivotal role in shaping the vision, stability, and long-term impact of DRC Mining Week.

During her keynote address in Lubumbashi in June this year, DRC's Prime Minister, H.E. Mrs Judith Suminwa Tuluka described the 20th edition of DRC Mining Week as “a moment to celebrate the remarkable progress our mining sector has achieved.”

DRC's new Mining Minister, H.E. Louis Watum Kabamba, an industry pioneer and himself a veteran attendee of DRC Mining Week over the years, is known for calling the event “the place to be to do business in the DRC,” and he regularly invites industry stakeholders to DRC Mining Week when addressing global mining gatherings.

VUKA Group also recognises the invaluable partnership of the FEC and the Chamber of Mines, whose collaboration and guidance have strengthened the platform over many years.

Shared achievement for the mining community

“This award belongs to the mining and investment community we serve,” says Samukelo Madlabane, Event Director for DRC Mining Week. “Our purpose has always been clear—to create a trusted platform where capital, expertise, and opportunity converge to support the DRC's long-term economic development. Celebrating our 20th anniversary with record growth and now this award is a testament to the strength, unity, and ambition of our community.”

Recognising sponsors and supporters

Madlabane adds:

“We extend our sincere appreciation to our Sponsors, Exhibitors, Media Partners, and Supporting Associations. Your continued commitment has become a cornerstone of DRC Mining Week.

“These partnerships are more than visibility—they actively shape the event into a platform for progress, opportunity, and impactful dialogue.

“To all our sponsors and exhibitors: Your contributions are the engine of DRC Mining Week's success. This milestone year would not have been possible without your dedication, innovation, and steadfast support.”

Looking ahead to 2026

Madlabane continues: “With preparations underway for the 21st edition of DRC Mining Week (17–19 June 2026 at the Pullman Lubumbashi Grand Karavia Hotel), VUKA Group remains committed to elevating the platform's role in connecting stakeholders, driving investment, and supporting sustainable industrial development in the DRC.

About VUKA Group's commitment

Through DRC Mining Week and the DRC–Africa Battery Metals Forum, VUKA Group continues to invest in platforms that unlock:

• long-term investment opportunities
• local market development
• project growth
• infrastructure expansion
• industrial value creation across the Congolese economy

Furthermore, VUKA remains dedicated to supporting the DRC's transformation into a globally competitive mining and industrial powerhouse.

DRC Mining Week dates and venue 2026:

• Expo and conference: 17–19 June 2026
• Location: The Pullman Grand Karavia Hotel, Lubumbashi, DRC

Media Contact:
Jiten Ramjee
VUKA Group
jiten.ramjee@wearevuka.com

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About VUKA Group
VUKA Group (formerly Clarion Events Africa) (https://WeAreVUKA.com/) is a leading Cape Town-based and multi-award-winning organiser of exhibitions, conferences and digital events across the continent in the infrastructure, energy, mining, mobility, green economy and retail sectors. Well-known events by VUKA Group include DRC Mining Week (https://apo-opa.co/4ieCdZS),  DRC-Africa Battery Metals Forum (https://apo-opa.co/4il0pdl), Nigeria Mining Week (https://apo-opa.co/4psqPMk), Enlit Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4oY9JGg), Africa's Green Economy Summit (https://apo-opa.co/44iVIuw), Carbon Markets Africa Summit (https://apo-opa.co/49C44B6), Smarter Mobility Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4rfp7zG), ECOM Africa (https://apo-opa.co/47X2use) and CEM Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4pwK6wo).