Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

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Qatar Participates in 27th GCC-EU Joint Council and Ministerial Meeting

Source: Government of Qatar

Brussels, May 20, 2026
The State of Qatar took part in the 27th GCC-EU Joint Council and Ministerial Meeting convened in Brussels, Belgium.

Participating in this event were delegations from the GCC nations and the GCC General Secretariat, alongside officials from the EU.

HE Director of Policy and Planning Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Khalid bin Fahad Al Khater represented the State of Qatar at this meeting.

The meeting addressed the latest developments in the Gulf region and Europe, particularly the Iranian attacks on the GCC nations, maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, as well as the situation in Yemen, Iraq and Lebanon.

Overall, the gathering shared perspectives on the situation in the Gaza Strip, the two-state solution, along with Syria and Ukraine. 

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Qatar Condemns Mistreatment by Israeli National Security Minister of Global Sumud Flotilla Activists

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | May 20, 2026

The State of Qatar condemns the mistreatment by the Israeli National Security Minister of activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla detained by Israeli authorities, describing this act as inhumane treatment constituting a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law.

The Foreign Ministry emphasizes that the mistreatment and abuse faced by activists from countries that maintain relations with Israel, in full view of the world, clearly expose the scale of violations endured by Palestinians living under occupation and apartheid for decades.

The ministry stresses that the practices of the Israeli government members must not be dealt with as isolated or individual incidents separated from the broader context, adding that such moves demonstrate a methodical Israeli behavior and official policy that gives no qualms about any attention to human dignity, and disregards both international law and the reactions of the international community.

The ministry calls on the international community to urgently spring into action to halt the Israeli provocations and inhumane treatment against the held activists and unconditionally release them immediately.

At the same time, the ministry underscores the importance of holding the occupation to account for its persistent crimes and violations against the Palestinian people, in addition to putting an end to policies of impunity that encourage the continuation of such practices.

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State banquet toast remarks from the State Visit to Botswana

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellency, President Duma Gideon Boko,
First Lady Kaone Tumalano Boko,
The Mayor of Gaborone,
The Speaker of Parliament of Botswana,
Honourable Ministers,
Distinguished Guests,
Bo Mma le Borra,

Dumelang!

Allow me to express my sincere appreciation for the distinct privilege and honour of being invited for this historic State Visit. 

This is no ordinary State Visit. It is a coming together of brethren from the same family. 

We are one people, born of the same soil and bound together by a shared history.

On behalf of the government and people of South Africa, we convey our deepest sympathies at the passing of one of Botswana’s greatest sons, His Excellency Former President Festus Mogae. He was a gentle giant, and illustrious African and a global statesman. 

Your loss is our loss. He will leave an indelible mark. 

President Mogae came in the footsteps of a remarkable array of great Batswana leaders, who have led a proud, resourceful and heroic people with a glorious history.

President Boko, 

We commend the vigour and vision with which you are leading Botswana on a path of modernisation and towards a future of sustained development and prosperity. 

You can count on South Africa — a reliable neighbour, friend and partner — as you continue along this path. 

Together, we are part of SADC, a community of nations that played a pivotal role in the liberation of South Africa from the crime of apartheid. 

Botswana was an ally and friend of the South African people in our quest for justice, democracy and human rights for all.

Botswana provided solidarity, support and refuge to our people during our days of need, sometimes at a great cost to yourself.

We continue to experience the dynamism of the ties between our peoples forged through a common history, heritage and geography. 

Our fortunes are intertwined and the possibilities of our cooperation are endless.

The levels of trade and investment between our two countries are substantial.

There is much scope to expand commerce between our countries and to achieve greater balance in the volume and value of trade. 

We must work together to seize the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area and to strengthen cooperation within SACU. 

South Africa stands ready to partner with Botswana as you march towards the diversification of your economy. 

We therefore look forward to the Botswana–South Africa Business Forum taking place tomorrow. 

The sixth session of the Bi-National Commission, which we will co-chair tomorrow, will deliberate on the many and diverse areas of bilateral cooperation that underpin our collaboration.

I thank you for this wonderful dinner and the enchanting cultural and musical displays this evening. 

My delegation and I will long remember the hospitality you have extended to us. 

You are a true friend and Brother and our peoples remain forever together.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Please join me in raising a toast:

To the good health and success of His Excellency President Duma Gideon Boko, to the continued prosperity of the Republic of Botswana and its people, and to the enduring bonds of friendship and partnership between the peoples of South Africa and Botswana.

Ke a leboga go menagane.

Pula!

I thank you.

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Repositioning government communication to better serve citizens

Source: Government of South Africa

Repositioning government communication to better serve citizens

In a move aimed at improving public access to reliable information, the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) is repositioning itself as a central hub for credible government content, enhanced media monitoring and faster responses to citizens’ concerns. 

“This is part of evolving GCIS from being just a coordinator of the government communication system, but to also serve as a government content hub by becoming a central content authority of government communication,” Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Wednesday.

The shift is intended to close communication gaps and ensure South Africans are better informed about government’s efforts to improve lives across the country.

Tabling the GCIS Budget Vote in Parliament, Ntshavheni said the new approach would strengthen consistency in government messaging, enable the government to frame its own narratives, and counter misinformation using verified sources.

She said the model would also help government maintain information authority during crises by serving as a central source of verified information for both citizens and media houses.

“The GCIS has started to operationalise the Editorial Content Centre (ECC), which is being replicated at the provincial level. The Editorial Content Centre coordinates the other four pillars for informed editorial decision-making,” the Minister said.

The key pillars of the Government Content Hub model are the Editorial Content Centre (ECC), the SAnews wire service, the platforms approach, the revised media engagement approach, and a national fact-checking capability.

SAnews wire service

During the 2025/26 Budget Debate, the Minister said the GCIS was positioning SAnews, the government’s news agency, as a fully fledged government wire service, aimed not only at publishing content, but also at redistributing government news articles more widely.

Ntshavheni said the work was progressing well. 

“Therefore, the performance measurement of SAnews is not based on website traffic but on the number of downstream channels that have used the SAnews content or the redistribution rate. 

“The next steps will include releasing alerts and statements through SAnews. On the redistribution rate, between April of 2025 and March 2026, 377 (306 National and 77 international) SAnews content was reused by downstream channels,” the Minister said.

Platforms approach 

Starting in the 2026/27 financial year, the GCIS will begin monitoring weekly reach, engagement and shares across all its content platforms, not only for performance measurement, but also to address what it calls the “visibility gap”.

“Closing the visibility gap requires GCIS to have a structured summary and analysis of what citizens are asking and sharing, and where government is absent from conversations which are underway. The insights will inform redistribution, content decisions and editorial actions. 

“This advances the work on improved engagement rate aimed at improving interaction between government and citizens, which we piloted in the 2025/26 [financial year]. From that pilot, it is pleasing to report a substantial growth of GCIS-managed digital platforms, which achieved over a 1.4 billion reach in 2025/26,” the Minister said.

Media engagement

In an effort to expand its reach through local languages, the revised media engagement strategy will place greater emphasis on community media.

“The reviewed media engagement approach emphasises both the proactive and reactive elements, which are supported by a strong media monitoring capacity. 

“The media monitoring function identifies narratives needing responses or amplification. On the proactive front, the revised media engagement approach supports the implementation of Departmental, Provincial, or Local Government Communication Plans,” Ntshavheni said.

During the 2026/27 financial year, the GCIS will strengthen monitoring of government communication plans at both compliance and substantive levels.

Budget allocation

The total budget allocation for GCIS over the 2026/27, 2027/28 and 2028/29 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period amounts to R2.503 billion.

This represents a 3.15% decrease compared to the 2025/26 allocation.

This budget is allocated as follows per year: 

  • 2026/27: R803, 246 million;
  • 2027/28: R837, 030 million; and
  • 2028/29: R863, 045 million.

Of the 2026/27 allocation, R262.523 million is earmarked for transfers and subsidies. This includes R218.349 million for Brand South Africa and R41.924 million for the Media Development and Diversity Agency.

An operating budget of R535.067 million has been allocated, including R324.517 million for employee compensation to support 500 permanent positions, and R210.550 million for goods and services. –SAnews.gov.za

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Government sets aside R423bn to strengthen municipalities and traditional governance

Source: Government of South Africa

Government sets aside R423bn to strengthen municipalities and traditional governance

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa has tabled a combined R423.4 billion budget for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs for the 2026/27 financial year, with government placing renewed focus on fixing dysfunctional municipalities, improving service delivery, and strengthening disaster preparedness.

Presenting the department’s budget in Parliament on Wednesday, Hlabisa said the allocations were aimed at building capable and accountable local government institutions while supporting traditional leadership structures.

Of the total allocation, R422.5 billion has been earmarked for Cooperative Governance, while R900 million will go towards Traditional Affairs.

Hlabisa said the budget should be viewed as a “delivery instrument” intended to improve municipal performance and the quality of life of communities across the country.

The Minister said government had completed its review of the White Paper on Local Government under the theme: “Every Municipality Must Work”, describing it as a key step towards strengthening governance, accountability and service delivery in municipalities.

“The revised White Paper recognises that local government today operates in a far more complex environment than in 1998. It provides a renewed and realistic framework to strengthen governance, accountability and service delivery,” the Minister said.

Several legislative reforms are also being advanced, including amendments aimed at improving municipal governance and addressing instability in coalition-led councils ahead of the 2026 local government elections scheduled for 4 November 2026.

Among the legislative reforms are:

•    The Local Government: General Laws Amendment Bill will improve governance and operational efficiency;
•    The Municipal Structures Amendment Bill (Coalitions Bill) will address instability in coalition governments. Political parties that will form a coalition government post 4 November 2026 will have to enter into coalition agreements
•    The Independent Municipal Demarcation Authority Bill will strengthen transparency and accountability; and
•    The Draft Fire Services Bill will modernise fire service governance.

Ethical leadership and audit outcomes

The Minister said government was strengthening competency-based recruitment, professionalising municipal administration and reinforcing ethical leadership.

“The introduction of the Code for Ethical Leadership, together with ethics training programmes, is reinforcing accountability. Without ethical leadership, no reform will succeed,” he said.

Hlabisa also noted improvements in municipal audit outcomes, with 59 municipalities recording improvements and 41 municipalities achieving clean audits.

“Where there is discipline, monitoring and consequence management, improvement follows,” the Minister said.

However, he acknowledged that governance weaknesses and financial mismanagement remained serious concerns in many municipalities.

Interventions in distressed municipalities

Government continues to provide targeted support to municipalities experiencing instability.

In Emfuleni, a Special Purpose Vehicle with Rand Water is being established to stabilise water services.

Meanwhile, national intervention in Ditsobotla has helped stabilise governance, improve financial management and restore basic services following prolonged instability.

“We will not hesitate to intervene where municipalities fail communities,” Hlabisa said.

Infrastructure and service delivery

Hlabisa noted that the District Development Model (DDM) remained central to government’s work but would now move “from planning to delivery.”

Measures being introduced include stronger accountability mechanisms, delivery dashboards and clearer escalation protocols.

The Minister also said government was exploring blended finance models, private sector partnerships, and new funding models to address infrastructure funding constraints.

“We must move beyond reliance on limited municipal balance sheets,” Hlabisa said.

Repositioning of the community work programme

Government plans to reposition the programme towards skills development, enterprise creation and sustainable livelihoods.

The Minister noted that the Community Work Programme currently supports more than 186 000 participants across the country.

Participants are already contributing to waste management, minor infrastructure repairs and local service delivery initiatives.

“This programme must become a pathway to economic opportunity, not only income support,” Hlabisa said.

Disaster recovery support

The Minister said government had allocated R2.161 billion in the previous financial year to 92 municipalities for disaster recovery efforts in provinces including the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North West.

An additional R191.16 million was provided through the Disaster Response Grant to municipalities facing immediate pressures.

Further allocations of R151 million for provinces and R203 million for municipalities are also being finalised.

“Furthermore, R166 million was reprioritised from the Municipal Infrastructure Grant to respond to recent floods, especially in Limpopo, Mpumalanga and other provinces,” Hlabisa said.

He stressed that the budget was intended to improve the lives of citizens through better-performing municipalities.

“This budget is not an accounting exercise; it is a delivery instrument. It must translate into functioning municipalities and improved lives.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Defence budget prioritises border security, military readiness and crime-fighting support

Source: Government of South Africa

Defence budget prioritises border security, military readiness and crime-fighting support

Government has allocated R57.6 billion to the Department of Defence for the 2026/27 financial year, with a strong focus on border safeguarding, internal security support and rebuilding South Africa’s defence capabilities amid mounting regional and domestic security pressures.

Tabling Budget Vote 23 in the National Assembly on Wednesday, Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga said the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) remains central to protecting the country’s sovereignty, supporting internal stability and safeguarding strategic national interests.

“The SANDF remains essential to sovereignty, central to internal stability and critical to the Republic’s regional and global obligations. Parliament is encouraged to support the Department’s efforts for adequate resources.

“We must choose to align defence ambition with an increased funding trajectory; restore coherence between policy and force design; protect the soldier as the centre of capability; rebuild critical domains; correct governance failures; stabilise operational financing; and renew the defence industrial base in support of long-term sovereignty,” the Minister said.

Motshekga warned that growing maritime traffic along the Cape Sea Route, illegal migration, organised crime and infrastructure deterioration continue to place significant pressure on the defence force.

R57.6bn budget allocation for defence priorities

The Department of Defence received a total allocation of R57.6 billion for the 2026/27 financial year.

The allocation includes:

  • R37.7 billion for compensation of employees; 
  • R2.5 billion for the SA Army;
  • R2.7 billion for the SA Air Force; 
  • R1.9 billion for the SA Navy;
  • R1.5 billion for Military Health Services; 
  • R4.5 billion for Logistics Division; and
  • R1.5 billion for Joint Operations Division. 

Government has also earmarked additional funding for strategic operational priorities, including:

  • R557 million for border safeguarding technology and vehicles;
  • R427 million for Air Force fighter capability maintenance; 
  • R607 million for Navy repairs and maintenance; 
  • R80 million for military uniforms; and
  • R1.5 billion transfer to ARMSCOR. 

An additional R150 million has been allocated to support the SANDF’s role during the 2026 local government elections.

Government intensifies border security operations

Border safeguarding emerged as one of the department’s key priorities, with the Minister warning that porous borders threaten national security and economic stability.

“Porous borders do not only compromise the territorial integrity of the state but lays a fertile ground for the emergence of several other national security threats, including threats to the economic well-being of the Republic,” Motshekga said. 

The department said intelligence-led operations supported by radar, sensors, and unmanned aerial vehicles are helping disrupt cross-border criminal syndicates, illegal migration networks and smuggling operations. 

Government also acknowledged ongoing challenges linked to aging patrol vehicles, inadequate infrastructure and deteriorating border fencing and access roads.

The SANDF will continue working with other departments and provincial administrations to strengthen border management systems.

SANDF to continue supporting SAPS against crime

Motshekga announced that an additional R823 million will be made available for SANDF operations supporting the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The deployments are aimed at addressing gang violence, illegal mining, organised crime and other internal security threats.

According to the Minister, coordinated interventions have already disrupted criminal syndicates and illegal mining operations through “sustained visibility, targeted enforcement and deprivation of criminal resources”.

Maritime security and defence diplomacy in focus

The Minister highlighted the growing strategic importance of the Cape Sea Route, describing the Navy as a “strategic necessity” for South Africa.

“To neglect our national maritime capability would risk strategic self-harm and global irrelevance,” Motshekga said.

Despite ongoing maintenance and infrastructure challenges, the SANDF recorded several operational milestones, including the SAS Amatola’s deployment to India and participation in Exercise MILAN 2026.

South Africa is also expected to host the African Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2026 exhibition in September, which government says will showcase local defence industries and expose young people to careers in aerospace and defence.

Government pushes long-term defence reforms.

Motshekga acknowledged that the SANDF continues to face funding constraints and structural pressures.

“At the core of the defence dilemma lies a fundamental and persistent misalignment between mandate, expectations, and funding,” she said.

Cabinet has now approved a series of long-term defence planning frameworks, including a Defence Capstone Policy Concept and a 30-year Defence Capability Plan known as the “Journey to Greatness”.

Government said these reforms are aimed at restoring coherence between defence policy, force design and future operational requirements.

The department indicated that a minimum funding threshold of 1.5% of GDP is required to maintain operational viability over time.

Youth development and military rejuvenation

The department said it is continuing efforts to rejuvenate the SANDF through military skills development and youth training initiatives.

An intake of 581 young people completed training through the South African National Service Institute (SANSI) and are now participating in learnership programmes.

Government plans to expand partnerships with departments responsible for youth development, higher education, labour and small business to strengthen employment pathways for young people.

The Minister also reaffirmed the department’s commitment to “Putting the Soldier First”, which includes improving uniforms, facilities, deployment conditions and healthcare support.

Governance failures and accountability measures

The Department of Defence acknowledged ongoing governance and financial management challenges, including qualified audit opinions, irregular expenditure and overspending on compensation of employees.

“These matters cannot be brushed aside,” Motshekga said.

The department said an Audit Action Plan, governance reviews and consequence management processes are being implemented, including disciplinary action and recovery of state funds where necessary.

Military veterans allocated R912 million.

The Department of Military Veterans received a separate allocation of R912 million for the 2026/27 financial year.

The budget includes funding for healthcare, pensions, housing, education and compensation benefits for military veterans.

However, the department acknowledged several operational challenges, including inadequate IT systems, organisational delays and weaknesses in service delivery structures.

The Minister said a Ministerial Transversal Task Team has been appointed to help stabilise the department and improve service delivery to veterans. – SAnews.gov.za 

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Le ministre congolais Onanga entend accélérer les transactions, promouvoir le potentiel local et développer le Gaz naturel liquéfié flottant (FLNG) dans le cadre d’une nouvelle offensive d’investissement

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Chambre africaine de l’énergie (AEC) (www.AfricanEnergyChamber.org) a renforcé son partenariat stratégique avec la République du Congo à la suite d’une réunion de haut niveau entre son président exécutif, NJ Ayuk, et le ministre des Hydrocarbures nouvellement nommé, Stev Simplice Onanga, qui s’est tenue cette semaine à Brazzaville. Cette rencontre a ouvert la voie à une nouvelle initiative visant à accélérer les investissements, à renforcer les capacités locales et à étendre la présence du pays dans le secteur du GNL.

Organisée peu après la nomination du ministre Onanga, cette réunion a souligné un engagement commun en faveur de la conclusion d’accords plus rapides et plus efficaces dans l’ensemble du secteur pétrolier et gazier congolais. Les deux parties ont souligné que la réduction des délais dans l’approbation et l’exécution des projets sera essentielle pour maintenir la compétitivité du Congo et attirer de nouveaux capitaux vers l’amont et le développement gazier.

Le développement d’une industrie locale plus forte a été au cœur des discussions. Le ministre Onanga a clairement exprimé son ambition de voir les entreprises congolaises dépasser leur rôle traditionnel de prestataires de services pour devenir des opérateurs, des titulaires de licences et des acteurs régionaux capables de rivaliser sur les marchés africains. Cela implique de créer des entreprises qui non seulement soutiennent les projets nationaux, mais peuvent également exporter leur expertise et leurs services au-delà du Congo.

L’AEC a salué cette vision et s’est engagée à travailler en étroite collaboration avec le ministère pour aider à développer une nouvelle génération d’entreprises congolaises compétitives. Cet effort se concentrera sur le renforcement des capacités techniques, l’élargissement de l’accès aux opportunités dans le développement des champs et le forage, et la garantie que les entreprises locales soient en mesure de participer de manière plus significative à l’ensemble de la chaîne de valeur.

Parallèlement, le ministre Onanga a appelé à une collaboration renforcée pour consolider la Société nationale des pétroles du Congo (SNPC), dans le but de la transformer en l’une des principales compagnies pétrolières nationales d’Afrique. L’objectif est que la SNPC évolue au-delà de son modèle actuel de partenariat avec des compagnies pétrolières internationales pour assumer un rôle plus opérationnel : gérer des actifs, diriger des projets et mener l’exploration et la production tant au niveau national qu’international à terme.

« Le Congo s’attache à construire un écosystème énergétique national plus solide à partir de la base », a déclaré M. Ayuk. « Nous avons convenu avec le ministre de la nécessité de faire des entreprises congolaises des acteurs compétitifs capables de s’étendre au-delà des frontières. Le renforcement de la SNPC est au cœur de cette démarche, afin qu’elle devienne un opérateur plus actif, gérant et développant des actifs. Il s’agit de renforcer les capacités à long terme du pays et de positionner le Congo comme une force de premier plan dans le secteur énergétique africain. »

Au-delà du développement de l’industrie locale, la réunion a réaffirmé l’ambition plus large du Congo de renforcer sa position au sein du paysage énergétique africain. Le ministre Onanga a souligné son intention d’aligner la stratégie nationale sur les priorités continentales, en s’appuyant sur son expérience en tant qu’ancien président du Conseil des gouverneurs de l’Organisation des producteurs africains de pétrole (APPO). La poursuite de la collaboration avec des institutions telles que l’APPO et l’OPEP restera au cœur de cette approche.

Le développement du gaz – en particulier le GNL flottant (FLNG) – est apparu comme un autre pilier clé de la discussion. Le Congo a déjà réalisé des progrès significatifs grâce à des projets tels que le développement Congo LNG d’Eni, où le FLNG Tango de 0,6 mtpa et la future installation FLNG de Nguya devraient porter la capacité d’exportation de GNL du pays à environ 3 mtpa.

S’appuyant sur cette dynamique, les discussions ont mis en évidence le potentiel de nouveaux développements FLNG. Grâce aux discussions en cours sur de nouveaux projets et à la convergence de conditions favorables, une future expansion du FLNG pourrait accroître encore la production et redéfinir le rôle du Congo sur le marché régional du gaz. L’augmentation des capacités permettrait non seulement de renforcer les recettes d’exportation, mais aussi de soutenir l’utilisation du gaz sur le marché intérieur et la croissance industrielle.

« Avec le ministre Onanga, nous constatons un engagement réel à faire avancer les choses : accélérer les accords, autonomiser les entreprises congolaises et développer le GNL », a ajouté M. Ayuk. « Les conditions sont réunies pour que le Congo devienne le leader continental du GNL flottant. Si cette dynamique se poursuit, il ne fait aucun doute que le pays pourra se positionner comme l’une des principales plaques tournantes du gaz en Afrique. »

En mettant à nouveau l’accent sur l’accélération des investissements, le développement de l’industrie locale et l’expansion du GNL, l’engagement de l’AEC auprès du Congo marque le début d’une phase davantage axée sur l’exécution pour le secteur énergétique du pays – une phase visant à créer de la valeur sur le territoire national, à renforcer l’influence régionale et à assurer une croissance à long terme.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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How the Product Leadership Accelerator (PLA) is Re-Engineering African Enterprises for a Digital-First Economy

Source: APO

As the global community celebrates World Product Day, a profound shift is taking place across Africa’s enterprise landscape. The Product Leadership Accelerator (PLA), www.AfricaPLA.com, an initiative of the Innovate Africa Foundation, is officially setting a new gold standard for how value is created and scaled, in Africa, by transforming African enterprises from traditional service providers into high-velocity, “product-led” engines of growth.

The PLA is bridging the gap between legacy business models and the modern Product Operating Model. This methodology, practiced by global companies like Apple, Netflix and Amazon, is now being localized, through the PLA, to ensure African enterprises and startups alike solve the continent’s toughest challenges through relentless innovation and de-risked execution.

Building a Pan-African Product Management Talent Pipeline

The PLA is currently powering its 2026 Accelerator Program, a rigorous 12-week program featuring 48 product managers from 13 African countries, including Nigeria, Egypt, Ghana, South Africa, and Kenya. In a significant move for gender equity in tech, the cohort maintains a female representation of about 54%, ensuring the future of African product leadership is as diverse as the markets it serves.

As the fellows tackle real-world problem statements across diverse industries during the 12 week accelerator program, they are mentored by an elite roster of practitioners who have built products at enterprises such as Interswitch, Netflix, Amazon, Microsoft, Paystack, and mPesa. They also receive strategic, high-level guidance from global product legends Marty Cagan and SVPG Partner Christian Idiodi.

“Building in Africa requires a distinct level of empathy, adaptability, and mastery of the product operating model,” explains Nkem Nweke, Lead at the PLA. “We empower leaders and enterprises to harness tools like AI while offering them strategic product management advisory. Our goal is to support companies in adopting a product-led culture which drives sustainable economic growth. By mitigating risks before investing significant capital or public resources, we help both enterprises and startups create solutions that truly meet market and consumer needs.”

Enterprise Transformation and Proven Outcomes

The impact of the PLA extends deep into the corporate sector through its specialized Product Management Advisory. Organizations reliant on technology spanning telecoms, FMCG, commerce, retail, finance, and government, are increasingly seeking to leverage the PLA’s expertise to shift their product teams from traditional project-based approaches to outcome-driven product cultures that drive growth.

The effectiveness of the PLA’s approach is best seen through its corporate partnerships. Afrinvest, a leading financial institution, serves as a primary example of how the PLA’s advisory services drive immediate corporate value.

“The PLA didn’t just upskill one individual; it has been a game-changer for our internal innovation culture, sparking a ripple effect of outcome-driven progress throughout our entire product department. “says Victor Ndukauba, Deputy MD, West Africa Afrinvest. “Seeing the speed at which our team can now identify and solve real consumer problems is why we’ve increased our participation this year.”

This sentiment is echoed by partners like Insight7, One Cluster and Agile Product Management, who view the PLA as the engine room for the continent’s digital maturity.

Central to this transformation is integrating tools like Artificial Intelligence (AI), enabling product managers to achieve world-class standards, driving efficiency, and ensuring African businesses set the pace for global innovation.

De-Risking African-Built Solutions

For founders, the stakes have never been higher. “Our goal is to raise product leaders who are deeply versed in the mechanics of discovery and delivery, ” notes Osa Awani, Head of Program at the PLA. “We see the shift happening in real-time as our fellows move from theoretical knowledge to building solutions that address market friction with surgical precision.” When founders and Product Managers master the product operating model, they stop guessing; and with a commitment to solving real problems, African product leaders will not only compete globally they will lead.”

Impact by the Numbers

  • 13 Countries: Active representation in the 2026 cohort, including Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, Egypt, Kenya, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Cameroun, Egypt and more.
  • 54%+ Female Representation: Leading the charge in inclusive tech leadership.
  • Scores of Scholarships: The Innovate Africa Foundation has provided scholarships to dozens of African product managers to attend prestigious SVPG Masterclasses, resulting in career promotions, career pivots to executive leadership, and the launch of new tech ventures.
  • 3-City Product Tour: Recently concluded engagements with product leaders across Lagos, Nairobi, and Cape Town.

A Future Defined by Innovation

Founded by Christian Idiodi, (partner at the globally renowned Silicon Valley Product Group),  the PLA is rooted in the belief that the intersection of world-class tools such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and strategic product management is essential to mastering the craft of creating exceptional products for Africa; thereby unlocking Africa’s economic potential. By offering cutting-edge tools, a robust network, and the innovative mindset of the world’s most successful organizations, the PLA ensures Africa’s challenges are addressed with future-ready, world-class solutions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Product Leadership Accelerator (PLA).

About the Product Leadership Accelerator (PLA):
Beyond our flagship accelerator, the PLA serves as a strategic transformation partner for established organizations across the continent. We provide high-impact Executive Coaching to align leadership with modern product principles and deliver intensive In-House Team Training that rewires technical and product departments for high-velocity execution. Our Strategic Advisory services go deeper, working side-by-side with enterprises to dismantle legacy “feature factory” mindsets and implement a robust Product Operating Model. By embedding these world-class methodologies directly into corporate DNA, we empower African businesses to leverage technology—the leveling power of AI—and strategic product management advisory to drive measurable outcomes, sustainable innovation, and aggressive economic growth. Interested partners and enterprises can find additional details at www.AfricaPLA.com.

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Congo’s Minister Onanga to Fast-Track Deals, Drive Local Content and Expand Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) in New Investment Push

Source: APO

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (www.AfricanEnergyChamber.org) has reinforced its strategic partnership with the Republic of Congo following a high-level meeting between Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk and newly appointed Minister of Hydrocarbons Stev Simplice Onanga in Brazzaville this week, setting the stage for a renewed push to accelerate investment, strengthen local capacity and expand the country’s LNG footprint.

Held shortly after Minister Onanga’s appointment, the meeting underscored a shared commitment to faster, more efficient deal-making across Congo’s oil and gas sector. Both sides emphasized that reducing delays in project approvals and execution will be critical to maintaining Congo’s competitiveness and attracting new capital into upstream and gas development.

A key focus of discussions was the development of a stronger local industry. Minister Onanga outlined a clear ambition to see Congolese companies grow beyond traditional service roles to become operators, license holders and regional players capable of competing across African markets. This includes building companies that not only support domestic projects, but can also export expertise and services beyond Congo.

The AEC welcomed this vision, committing to work closely with the Ministry to help develop a new generation of competitive Congolese firms. This effort will focus on strengthening technical capacity, expanding access to opportunities in field development and drilling, and ensuring local companies are positioned to participate more meaningfully across the value chain.

In parallel, Minister Onanga called for enhanced collaboration to strengthen Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo (SNPC), with the goal of transforming it into one of Africa’s leading national oil companies. The vision is for SNPC to evolve beyond its current partnership model with international oil companies to take on a more operational role – managing assets, leading projects and driving exploration and production both domestically and, over time, internationally.

“Congo is focused on building a stronger national energy ecosystem from the ground up,” said Ayuk. “We agreed with the Minister on the need to develop Congolese companies into competitive players that can scale beyond borders. Strengthening SNPC is central to this, so it becomes a more active operator, managing and developing assets. This is about building long-term capacity in-country and positioning Congo as a leading force in African energy.”

Beyond local industry development, the meeting reinforced Congo’s broader ambition to strengthen its position within Africa’s energy landscape. Minister Onanga highlighted his intention to align national strategy with continental priorities, drawing on his experience as former Chair of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization (APPO) Board of Governors. Continued engagement with institutions such as APPO and OPEC will remain central to this approach.

Gas development – particularly floating LNG (FLNG) – emerged as another key pillar of the discussion. Congo has already made significant progress through projects such as Eni’s Congo LNG development, where the 0.6 mtpa Tango FLNG and the upcoming Nguya FLNG facility are expected to increase the country’s LNG export capacity to around 3 mtpa.

Building on this momentum, discussions pointed to the potential for additional FLNG developments. With ongoing conversations around new projects and favorable conditions aligning, a future FLNG expansion could further scale production and reshape Congo’s role in the regional gas market. Expanding capacity would not only strengthen export revenues, but also support domestic gas utilization and industrial growth.

“With Minister Onanga, we’re seeing a real commitment to getting things done – moving deals faster, empowering Congolese companies and scaling LNG,” added Ayuk. “The stars are aligning for Congo to lead the continent in floating LNG. If this momentum continues, there’s no doubt the country can position itself as one of Africa’s leading gas hubs.”

With a renewed focus on fast-tracked investment, local industry development and LNG expansion, the AEC’s engagement with Congo signals a more execution-driven phase for the country’s energy sector – one aimed at building in-country value, strengthening regional influence and delivering long-term growth.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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O ministro Onanga do Congo pretende acelerar acordos, promover o conteúdo local e expandir o Gás Natural Liquefeito Flutuante (FLNG) numa nova iniciativa de investimento

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

A Câmara Africana de Energia (AEC) (www.AfricanEnergyChamber.org) reforçou a sua parceria estratégica com a República do Congo na sequência de uma reunião de alto nível entre o Presidente Executivo NJ Ayuk e o recém-nomeado Ministro dos Hidrocarbonetos, Stev Simplice Onanga, em Brazzaville esta semana, preparando o terreno para um novo impulso no sentido de acelerar o investimento, reforçar a capacidade local e expandir a presença do país no setor do GNL.

Realizada pouco depois da nomeação do Ministro Onanga, a reunião sublinhou um compromisso comum para a celebração de acordos mais rápidos e eficientes em todo o setor do petróleo e gás do Congo. Ambas as partes enfatizaram que a redução dos atrasos na aprovação e execução de projetos será fundamental para manter a competitividade do Congo e atrair novos capitais para o desenvolvimento a montante e do gás.

Um dos principais focos das discussões foi o desenvolvimento de uma indústria local mais forte. O Ministro Onanga delineou uma ambição clara de ver as empresas congolesas crescerem para além das funções tradicionais de prestação de serviços, tornando-se operadoras, titulares de licenças e intervenientes regionais capazes de competir nos mercados africanos. Isto inclui a criação de empresas que não só apoiem projetos nacionais, mas que também possam exportar conhecimentos especializados e serviços para além do Congo.

A AEC acolheu favoravelmente esta visão, comprometendo-se a trabalhar em estreita colaboração com o Ministério para ajudar a desenvolver uma nova geração de empresas congolesas competitivas. Este esforço centrar-se-á no reforço da capacidade técnica, na expansão do acesso a oportunidades no desenvolvimento de campos e na perfuração, e em garantir que as empresas locais estejam posicionadas para participar de forma mais significativa em toda a cadeia de valor.

Paralelamente, o Ministro Onanga apelou a uma colaboração reforçada para fortalecer a Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo (SNPC), com o objetivo de a transformar numa das principais empresas petrolíferas nacionais de África. A visão é que a SNPC evolua para além do seu atual modelo de parceria com empresas petrolíferas internacionais, assumindo um papel mais operacional – gerindo ativos, liderando projetos e impulsionando a exploração e a produção tanto a nível nacional como, ao longo do tempo, internacional.

«O Congo está focado em construir um ecossistema energético nacional mais forte a partir da base», afirmou Ayuk. «Concordámos com o Ministro quanto à necessidade de transformar as empresas congolesas em intervenientes competitivos capazes de expandir-se para além das fronteiras. O reforço da SNPC é fundamental para isso, para que se torne um operador mais ativo, gerindo e desenvolvendo ativos. Trata-se de construir capacidade a longo prazo no país e posicionar o Congo como uma força líder na energia africana.»

Para além do desenvolvimento da indústria local, a reunião reforçou a ambição mais ampla do Congo de fortalecer a sua posição no panorama energético africano. O Ministro Onanga destacou a sua intenção de alinhar a estratégia nacional com as prioridades continentais, recorrendo à sua experiência como antigo Presidente do Conselho de Governadores da Organização Africana de Produtores de Petróleo (APPO). O envolvimento contínuo com instituições como a APPO e a OPEP continuará a ser fundamental para esta abordagem.

O desenvolvimento do gás – em particular o GNL flutuante (FLNG) – surgiu como outro pilar fundamental da discussão. O Congo já fez progressos significativos através de projetos como o desenvolvimento do Congo LNG da Eni, onde se espera que a instalação Tango FLNG de 0,6 mtpa e a futura instalação Nguya FLNG aumentem a capacidade de exportação de GNL do país para cerca de 3 mtpa.

Aproveitando este impulso, as discussões apontaram para o potencial de desenvolvimentos adicionais de FLNG. Com as conversações em curso sobre novos projetos e as condições favoráveis a alinharem-se, uma futura expansão do FLNG poderia aumentar ainda mais a produção e redefinir o papel do Congo no mercado regional de gás. A expansão da capacidade não só reforçaria as receitas de exportação, como também apoiaria a utilização doméstica de gás e o crescimento industrial.

«Com o Ministro Onanga, estamos a assistir a um compromisso real para concretizar as coisas – acelerar os acordos, capacitar as empresas congolesas e expandir o GNL», acrescentou Ayuk. «Os astros estão a alinhar-se para que o Congo lidere o continente no GNL flutuante. Se este impulso continuar, não há dúvida de que o país se pode posicionar como um dos principais centros de gás de África.»

Com um foco renovado no investimento acelerado, no desenvolvimento da indústria local e na expansão do GNL, o envolvimento da AEC com o Congo sinaliza uma fase mais orientada para a execução no setor energético do país – uma fase que visa criar valor no país, reforçar a influência regional e garantir um crescimento a longo prazo.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

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