Afreximbank s’associe à l’African Energy Week 2026 pour favoriser la conclusion d’accords énergétiques sous l’impulsion de l’Afrique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


La Banque africaine d’import-export (Afreximbank) a été confirmée comme partenaire de l’African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, qui se tiendra du 12 au 16 octobre au Cap. Sa participation souligne le rôle de l’événement en tant que plateforme d’investissement de premier plan, plaçant la banque au cœur des transactions dans les secteurs du pétrole, du gaz, de l’électricité et des infrastructures énergétiques.

En amont de l’AEW, Afreximbank a étendu sa présence mondiale en portant à 5 milliards de dollars son plafond de financement pour la Communauté des Caraïbes (CARICOM). Cette augmentation s’ajoute aux plus de 750 millions de dollars déjà déployés et à un portefeuille de projets dépassant les 2 milliards de dollars, ciblant les infrastructures, le tourisme, la transformation agricole et les services financiers, tout en renforçant les corridors commerciaux et d’investissement entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes.

La banque a franchi une étape importante récemment avec l’adhésion de l’Afrique du Sud en tant que 54e État membre, achevant ainsi sa couverture continentale complète. Cette adhésion débloque un programme national de 8 milliards de dollars axé sur l’énergie, l’industrie manufacturière et le commerce, ainsi qu’un Fonds de transformation de 3 milliards de dollars destiné à soutenir les entreprises détenues par des Noirs et les PME tout en favorisant le développement industriel et les chaînes de valeur régionales. Ces dernières années, la banque a également renforcé sa base de capital, notamment grâce à une augmentation de 25 milliards de dollars de son capital autorisé, ce qui a accru sa capacité à financer des projets énergétiques et d’infrastructure à grande échelle à travers l’Afrique.

Le rôle croissant d’Afreximbank s’étend directement au financement de projets par le biais de l’Africa Energy Bank, une initiative conjointe menée par Afreximbank et l’Organisation des producteurs africains de pétrole. Conçue pour combler le déficit de financement laissé par le retrait des prêteurs internationaux des secteurs amont du pétrole et du gaz, la banque vise à mobiliser des capitaux africains pour des projets énergétiques africains, avec des objectifs de financement initiaux de plusieurs milliards et des opérations devant débuter en 2026. Conjuguée au bilan renforcé d’Afreximbank, cette initiative marque une évolution plus large vers des structures de capital dirigées par l’Afrique, capables de financer des développements à grande échelle dans les secteurs amont, intermédiaire et des infrastructures – positionnant ainsi le continent non seulement comme bénéficiaire de capitaux, mais aussi comme source de capitaux.

« Le partenariat entre Afreximbank et AEW 2026 reflète un changement majeur dans la manière dont l’Afrique finance son avenir énergétique », a déclaré NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie. « Nous passons d’une dépendance vis-à-vis des capitaux extérieurs à un modèle où les institutions africaines structurent, financent et pilotent des projets de A à Z. Alors que les investissements s’accélèrent dans les secteurs du pétrole, du gaz et des énergies renouvelables, des acteurs comme Afreximbank ne se contentent pas de soutenir des transactions, mais contribuent à définir le marché. »

Lors de l’African Energy Week 2026, Afreximbank devrait jouer un rôle central dans l’avancement des discussions sur le financement, le soutien à la création de projets et le renforcement des partenariats entre les gouvernements, les promoteurs et les investisseurs. Sa participation met en évidence une évolution plus large vers un capital africain dans le développement énergétique, renforçant la position de l’événement en tant que catalyseur de projets bancables, d’intégration régionale et de sécurité énergétique à long terme.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

Deputy President Mashatile to officiate Title Deed Handover Ceremony in Thabazimbi, Limpopo

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Friday, 10 April 2026, officiate the Title Deed Handover Ceremony to mark the official restoration of land to the Sebilong Communal Property Association (CPA) in Thabazimbi, Waterberg District, Limpopo Province.

The Deputy President serves as Chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Land Reform and Agriculture, which was established to oversee and accelerate the implementation of Government’s land reform programme and related interventions.

This landmark ceremony represents a significant milestone in advancing land reform efforts aimed at redressing the injustices of historical land dispossession and restoring land rights to rightful beneficiaries. 

Through the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development, under the leadership of Minister Mzwanele Nyhontso, more than 340 000 hectares of land have been restored to the Sebilong community. This community comprises 89 originally dispossessed households, amounting to a total of 1 071 verified beneficiaries.

To date, the Department has settled over 83 721 land claims nationally, resulting in the transfer of approximately 3 916 733 hectares of land. 

This progress underscores Government’s continued commitment to resolving land claims and facilitating equitable land ownership among affected communities.

As South Africa commemorates Chris Hani on 10 April, as one of the country’s foremost struggle heroes, the Title Deed Handover Ceremony further demonstrates Government’s commitment to advancing human dignity, freedom, and inclusive economic participation grounded in spatial justice.

The Deputy President will be accompanied by members of the IMC on Land Reform and Agriculture; the Premier of Limpopo, Dr Phophi Ramathuba; Members of the Limpopo Provincial Executive Council (PEC); leadership of the Waterberg District Municipality and Thabazimbi Local Municipality; as well as representatives of the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights.

The ceremony will take place as follows:

Date: Friday, 10 April 2026
Time: 09h00
Venue: Portion 27 of the Farm Zwartkop 369 KQ, Thabazimbi, Limpopo Province

Media Programme

• 08h30 – Photo opportunity: Arrival of the Deputy President and delegation at Portion 21 of Farm Zwartkop 369 KQ (Boardroom) 
• 10h00 – Media in attendance: Guided walkabout at Zwartkop Farm 
• 11h00 – Main programme (media in attendance) 
• 12h00 – Keynote address by Deputy President Mashatile 
• 13h00 – Media doorstop 

Media Accreditation

Members of the media are requested to complete the attached accreditation form (SSA SCREENING TEMPLATE – MEDIA.xlsx) and submit it to Sam Bopape on Matome@presidency.gov.za or Ishmael Selemale on Ishmael@gcis.gov.za 

Media enquiries: 

The Presidency – Mr Keith Khoza, Spokesperson to the Deputy President, on 066 195 8840
Department of Land Reform and Rural Development – Ms Linda Page, Chief Director: Strategic Communication, on Linda.Page@dlrrd.gov.za / 071 334 3479
Eviction Toll-Free Number: 0800 007 095

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Can Equatorial Guinea Reposition as West Africa’s Gas Hub?

Source: APO – Report:

.

Equatorial Guinea is moving from strategy to execution in its bid to become a regional gas hub. A series of agreements signed in early 2026 – covering cross-border supply, upstream participation and infrastructure utilization – are positioning the country to monetize gas through existing assets and regional aggregation.

This agenda will take center stage at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum in Paris, where Equatorial Guinea will feature in a dedicated Country Spotlight session led by Antonio Oburu Ondo, Minister of Mines and Hydrocarbons. With participation from key industry players, including Panoro Energy and Perceptum, EG Ronda bid round organizer, the forum will provide a platform to outline the country’s gas sector repositioning and where investors can engage.

Momentum behind this model has accelerated in recent months. In February 2026, Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon signed a unitization agreement to jointly develop the cross-border Yoyo-Yolanda gas fields, estimated to hold around 2.5 trillion cubic feet of gas. Production from the project is slated to feed directly into Equatorial Guinea’s Punta Europa complex, reinforcing the country’s hub strategy without requiring standalone export infrastructure. 

Simultaneously, the government strengthened domestic supply through a Heads of Agreement with Chevron to expand the Aseng gas project, increasing GEPetrol’s stake from 5% to over 30%. This not only stabilizes production but also secures additional feedstock for downstream processing, linking upstream development directly to the hub model.

Rather than focusing on new LNG developments, Equatorial Guinea is aggregating domestic and regional gas volumes to maximize existing infrastructure. At the core of this approach is the Punta Europa complex on Bioko Island, one of sub-Saharan Africa’s most advanced gas processing hubs, with LNG, methanol and LPG facilities already in place. The current challenge is securing reliable feedstock as output from legacy fields such as Alba declines.

The Gas Mega Hub initiative offers a faster, more cost-effective route to monetization. By processing third-party volumes from Cameroon, and potentially Nigeria, the country can leverage existing facilities while avoiding the risks and capital intensity of greenfield LNG projects. This approach opens a spectrum of investment opportunities across gas aggregation, transport, processing and downstream integration, often structured through commercially aligned frameworks that reduce execution risk.

Policy and regulatory support are central to this transition. The Ministry of Mines and Hydrocarbons has prioritized regulatory alignment and cross-border cooperation, recognizing that successful hub development depends as much on enabling frameworks as on physical infrastructure. The recent agreements reflect growing clarity and investor confidence.

For the global investment community, IAE 2026 offers a strategic opportunity to engage directly with government and operators shaping the hub model. The participation of both policymakers and companies active in the sector reinforces the credibility and immediate relevance of Equatorial Guinea’s strategy.

Equatorial Guinea is no longer waiting for new discoveries to drive growth. By leveraging existing infrastructure, securing regional supply and building flexible commercial models, the country is positioning itself as a critical node for gas monetization in West Africa. Success here could extend the life of its assets while establishing a platform for regional energy trade.

IAE 2026 (https://apo-opa.co/41nyEZQ) is an exclusive forum designed to connect African energy markets with global investors, serving as a key platform for deal-making in the lead-up to African Energy Week. Scheduled for April 22–23, 2026, in Paris, the event will provide delegates with two days of in-depth engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or register as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

Afreximbank Partners with African Energy Week 2026 to Drive Africa-Led Energy Deals

Source: APO – Report:

.

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has been confirmed as a Partner of African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, taking place October 12–16 in Cape Town. Its participation underscores the event’s role as a premier investment platform, positioning the bank at the center of deal-making across oil, gas, power and energy infrastructure.

Ahead of AEW, Afreximbank has expanded its global footprint by raising its financing cap for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to $5 billion. The increase builds on more than $750 million already deployed and a pipeline exceeding $2 billion, targeting infrastructure, tourism, agro-processing and financial services while strengthening Africa–Caribbean trade and investment corridors.

The bank reached a recent milestone with South Africa joining as its 54th member state, completing full continental coverage. This accession unlocks an $8 billion country program focused on energy, manufacturing and trade, alongside a $3 billion Transformation Fund aimed at supporting black-owned businesses and SMEs while advancing industrial development and regional value chains. In recent years, the bank has also bolstered its capital base, including a $25 billion increase in authorized capital, enhancing its capacity to finance large-scale energy and infrastructure projects across Africa.

Afreximbank’s expanding role extends directly into project financing through the Africa Energy Bank, a joint initiative spearheaded by Afreximbank and the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization. Designed to address a financing gap left by international lenders’ retreat from upstream oil and gas, the bank aims to mobilize African capital for African energy projects, with initial funding targets in the billions and operations set to begin in 2026. Together with Afreximbank’s strengthened balance sheet, this initiative signals a broader shift toward African-led capital structures capable of underwriting large-scale upstream, midstream and infrastructure developments – positioning the continent not just as a capital recipient, but as a capital originator.

“Afreximbank’s partnership with AEW 2026 reflects a key shift in how Africa is financing its energy future,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “We’re moving beyond reliance on external capital to a model where African institutions are structuring, financing and driving projects from the ground up. As investment accelerates across oil, gas and renewables, players like Afreximbank are not only supporting deals, but helping define the market.”

At African Energy Week 2026, Afreximbank is expected to play a central role in advancing financing discussions, supporting project origination and strengthening partnerships between governments, developers and investors. Its participation highlights a broader shift toward African-led capital in energy development, reinforcing the event’s position as a catalyst for bankable projects, regional integration and long-term energy security.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

O Afreximbank estabelece parceria com a African Energy Week 2026 para impulsionar acordos energéticos liderados por África

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Baixar .tipo

O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) foi confirmado como parceiro da African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, que decorrerá de 12 a 16 de outubro na Cidade do Cabo. A sua participação reforça o papel do evento como plataforma de investimento de excelência, posicionando o banco no centro das negociações nos setores do petróleo, gás, energia e infraestruturas energéticas.

Antes da AEW, o Afreximbank expandiu a sua presença global ao aumentar o limite de financiamento para a Comunidade das Caraíbas (CARICOM) para 5 mil milhões de dólares. Este aumento vem somar-se aos mais de 750 milhões de dólares já mobilizados e a um portfólio de projetos que ultrapassa os 2 mil milhões de dólares, visando as infraestruturas, o turismo, a transformação agrícola e os serviços financeiros, ao mesmo tempo que reforça os corredores de comércio e investimento entre África e as Caraíbas.

O banco atingiu recentemente um marco com a adesão da África do Sul como seu 54.º Estado-membro, completando a cobertura continental total. Esta adesão desbloqueia um programa nacional de 8 mil milhões de dólares focado na energia, na indústria transformadora e no comércio, a par de um Fundo de Transformação de 3 mil milhões de dólares destinado a apoiar empresas detidas por negros e PME, promovendo simultaneamente o desenvolvimento industrial e as cadeias de valor regionais. Nos últimos anos, o banco reforçou também a sua base de capital, incluindo um aumento de 25 mil milhões de dólares no capital autorizado, aumentando a sua capacidade de financiar projetos de energia e infraestruturas de grande escala em toda a África.

O papel em expansão do Afreximbank estende-se diretamente ao financiamento de projetos através do Banco Africano de Energia, uma iniciativa conjunta liderada pelo Afreximbank e pela Organização Africana de Produtores de Petróleo. Concebido para colmatar uma lacuna de financiamento deixada pela retirada dos credores internacionais do setor upstream de petróleo e gás, o banco visa mobilizar capital africano para projetos energéticos africanos, com metas de financiamento iniciais na ordem dos milhares de milhões e operações previstas para começar em 2026. Juntamente com o balanço reforçado do Afreximbank, esta iniciativa sinaliza uma mudança mais ampla no sentido de estruturas de capital lideradas por África, capazes de financiar desenvolvimentos em grande escala nos setores a montante, a jusante e de infraestruturas – posicionando o continente não apenas como um destinatário de capital, mas como um originador de capital.

«A parceria do Afreximbank com a AEW 2026 reflete uma mudança fundamental na forma como África está a financiar o seu futuro energético», afirmou NJ Ayuk, Presidente Executivo da Câmara Africana de Energia. «Estamos a passar da dependência do capital externo para um modelo em que as instituições africanas estão a estruturar, financiar e impulsionar projetos desde o início. À medida que o investimento acelera nos setores do petróleo, gás e energias renováveis, intervenientes como o Afreximbank não estão apenas a apoiar negócios, mas a ajudar a definir o mercado.»

Na African Energy Week 2026, espera-se que o Afreximbank desempenhe um papel central no avanço das discussões sobre financiamento, apoiando a originação de projetos e reforçando as parcerias entre governos, promotores e investidores. A sua participação destaca uma mudança mais ampla no sentido de um capital liderado por África no desenvolvimento energético, reforçando a posição do evento como catalisador de projetos financiáveis, integração regional e segurança energética a longo prazo.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

Fundação Merck celebra o Dia Mundial da Saúde 2026 – Transformando o atendimento ao paciente em África e em outros países através de mais de 2.600 bolsas de estudo para profissionais de saúde de 52 países

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Fundação Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), o braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha comemora o Dia Mundial da Saúde de 2026 em parceria com as Primeiras-Damas de Países Africanos e Asiáticos, que também são Embaixadoras da Campanha Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe”, reafirmando o seu compromisso em melhorar e revolucionar o acesso à saúde em África, Ásia e noutras regiões através dos seus programas de bolsas de estudo e de capacitação profissional.

A Senadora Dra. Rasha Kelej (aposentada), CEO da Fundação Merck, partilhou: “Na Fundação Merck, continuamos comprometidos em transformar o cenário do atendimento ao paciente e melhorar o acesso a soluções de saúde de qualidade e equitativas em África, Ásia e noutros lugares. Nos últimos 14 anos, comemoramos o Dia Mundial da Saúde todos os dias por meio de nossos esforços contínuos para desenvolver a capacidade de atendimento de saúde em comunidades carentes.

Tenho orgulho de partilhar que concedemos mais de 2.600 bolsas de estudo para jovens profissionais de saúde de 52 países em 44 especialidades médicas críticas e carentes. Através dessas bolsas de estudo, muitos dos ex-bolsistas da Fundação Merck estão a torna-se os primeiros especialistas nas suas respectivas áreas nos seus países, incluindo Namíbia, Libéria, Gâmbia, Burundi, Malawi, Serra Leoa, Zâmbia, Guiné, Etiópia, Congo, Nepal, Bangladesh e Zimbabwe, entre outros.”

“Este é verdadeiramente um momento histórico, e temos orgulho de fazer parte do legado da África, capacitando uma nova geração de especialistas em saúde que servirão às gerações futuras.” Acrescentou a Dra. Kelej.

Como todos sabem, a falta de recursos financeiros não é o único desafio que a África enfrenta. Uma questão muito mais urgente é a escassez de profissionais de saúde qualificados, capazes de prevenir, diagnosticar e tratar doenças de forma eficaz.

Essa grave falta de pessoal médico e de saúde tem sido uma das barreiras mais críticas ao acesso a cuidados de saúde de qualidade em todo o continente.

De acordo com o relatório da OMS de 2021, a região africana concentra 24% da carga mundial de doenças, enquanto existem apenas 2,9 profissionais de saúde por cada 1000 habitantes. Essa lacuna tem um impacto profundo nos resultados de saúde.

Portanto, as bolsas de estudo da Fundação Merck são extremamente importantes, pois proporcionam aos médicos treinamento especializado, ajudando a reduzir as lacunas na área da saúde e a melhorar o atendimento ao paciente em comunidades carentes.

A Fundação Merck trabalha em estreita colaboração com as suas embaixadoras, as Primeiras-Damas Africanas e Asiáticas e parceiros locais, como os Ministérios da Saúde, Educação, Informação e Comunicação, Gênero, Academia, Instituições de Pesquisa, Mídia e Arte, para fortalecer a capacidade da área da saúde e enfrentar os desafios de saúde, sociais e económicos em países em desenvolvimento e comunidades carentes.

A Fundação Merck também apoia activamente mulheres e jovens na área de Ciência e Tecnologia através do seu Programa STEM e do Prémio da Cimeira Anual Africana para Investigação da Fundação Merck (MARS), que reconhece e celebra as melhores investigadoras africanas e os melhores jovens investigadores africanos, promovendo a excelência na investigação.

A Dra. Kelej partilhou: “O lema do Dia Mundial da Saúde 2026, ‘Juntos pela saúde. Apoiem a ciência’, alinha-se perfeitamente com o nosso programa que capacita profissionais de saúde e empodera mulheres e jovens em STEM (Ciência, Tecnologia, Engenharia e Matemática)”.

A CEO da Fundação Merck também anunciou a Chamada para Candidaturas para Bolsas de Estudo de 2026.

“Tenho o prazer de anunciar a Chamada para Candidaturas para as Bolsas de Estudo de 2026 para jovens profissionais de saúde, com foco especial em mulheres formadas em medicina. Isso inclui programas de fellowship presenciais, programas de treinamento clínico e diplomas online de um ano e mestrados de dois anos em 44 especialidades médicas críticas e carentes. As inscrições são feitas através dos Gabinetes das nossas Embaixadoras e parceiros de longa data, as Primeiras-Damas da África e o Ministério da Saúde de cada país”, partilhou a Dra. Rasha Kelej.

Para candidatar-se para bolsas de estudo presenciais nas áreas de Fertilidade, Oncologia, Diabetes e outras especialidades:

https://apo-opa.co/4cc7x90

Para candidatr-se para bolsas de estudo Online, visite:

https://apo-opa.co/4c9nLj7

A selecção para cada bolsa de estudos será baseada em solicitação do Gabinete da Primeira-Dama, do Ministério da Saúde e/ou da Sociedade Médica, com o objectivo de suprir as lacunas do sistema público de saúde em cada país.

A seleção será baseada no cumprimento dos critérios de elegibilidade de cada Instituto de Formação e Fundação, na disponibilidade de bolsas e na disponibilidade de fundos.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Merck Foundation.

Contato:
Mehak Handa
Gerente do Programa de Conscientização Comunitária
Telefone: +91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Junte-se à conversa nas plataformas das nossas mídias sociais e deixe a sua voz ser ouvida!
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/41jDWWd
X: https://apo-opa.co/3NNY53J
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/3PTtKRU
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4sus0w8
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4tCEuCS
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4tBljt5
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Baixar a Aplicação da Fundação Merck: https://apo-opa.co/4e7JISn

Sobre Fundação Merck:
A Fundação Merck, criada em 2017, é o braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha e visa melhorar a saúde e o bem-estar das pessoas e impulsionar suas vidas por meio da ciência e da tecnologia. Nossos esforços concentram-se principalmente em melhorar o acesso a soluções de saúde de qualidade e equitativas em comunidades carentes, fortalecer a capacidade em saúde e pesquisa científica, empoderar meninas na educação e empoderar pessoas em STEM (Ciência, Tecnologia, Engenharia e Matemática), com foco especial em mulheres e jovens. Todos os comunicados de imprensa da Fundação Merck são distribuídos por e-mail ao mesmo tempo em que são disponibilizados no site da Fundação Merck. Visite www.Merck-Foundation.com para ler mais. Siga as redes sociais da Fundação Merck: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/41jDWWd), X (https://apo-opa.co/3NNY53J), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4sus0w8), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3PTtKRU), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4tCEuCS) e Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4tBljt5).

A Fundação Merck dedica-se a melhorar os resultados sociais e de saúde de comunidades carentes. Embora colabore com diversos parceiros, incluindo governos, para alcançar os seus objectivos humanitários, a fundação permanece estritamente neutra em questões políticas. Não se envolve nem apoia quaisquer actividades, eleições ou regimes políticos, concentrando-se exclusivamente na sua missão de elevar a humanidade e promover o bem-estar, mantendo uma postura estritamente apolítica em todos os seus esforços.

Media files

Baixar .tipo

Merck Foundation Marks ‘World Health Day’ 2026 – Transforming Patient Care in Africa and Beyond through 2600+ Scholarships for Healthcare Providers From 52 Countries

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany commemorates World Health Day 2026 in partnership with First Ladies of African and Asian Countries, who are also the Ambassadors of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Campaign, with a strong reaffirmation of its commitment to improving and revolutionizing healthcare access across Africa, Asia and beyond through their Scholarships and Capacity Building Program.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation shared, “At Merck Foundation, we remain committed to transforming the patient care landscape and improving access to quality and equitable healthcare solutions across Africa, Asia, and beyond. For the past 14 years, we have marked World Health Day every day through our ongoing efforts to build healthcare capacity in underserved communities.

I am proud to share that we have provided more than 2,600 scholarships for young healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties. Through these scholarships, many of our Merck Foundation alumni are becoming the first-ever specialists in their respective fields in their countries, including Namibia, Liberia, The Gambia, Burundi, Malawi, Sierra Leone, Zambia, Guinea, Ethiopia, Congo, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe, among others.”

“This is truly history in the making, and we are proud to be a part of Africa’s legacy by empowering a new generation of healthcare specialists who will serve generations to come.” Added Dr. Kelej.

As you all know, the lack of financial resources is not the only challenge facing Africa. A far more pressing issue is the scarcity of trained healthcare providers capable of effectively preventing, diagnosing, and managing diseases.

This sweeping shortage of medical and healthcare personnel has been one of the most critical barriers to access to quality healthcare across the continent.

As per WHO 2021 report, African region has 24% of the world’s disease burden, whereas there are only 2.9 healthcare workers per 1000 capita. This gap has a profound impact on health outcomes.

Therefore, the Merck Foundation scholarships are highly significant, as they provide doctors with specialized training, helping to bridge healthcare gaps and improve patient care in underserved communities.

Merck Foundation works closely with their Ambassadors, the African and Asian First Ladies and local partners such as Ministries of Health, Education, Information & Communication, Gender, Academia, Research Institutions, Media and Art in building healthcare capacity and addressing health, social & economic challenges in developing countries and under-served communities.

Merck Foundation also actively empowers women and youth in Science and Technology through its STEM Program and the annual Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards that recognize and celebrate the Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers, fostering research excellence.

Dr. Kelej shared, “This theme of World Health Day 2026 ““Together for health. Stand with science,” aligns perfectly with our program that train healthcare providers and empower women and youth in STEM”.

Merck Foundation CEO also announced the Call for Applications for 2026 Scholarships.

“I am happy to announce the Call for Applications for the 2026 Scholarships for young healthcare providers with special focus on women medical graduates. These include on-site fellowship programs, clinical training programs and online one-year diploma & two-year master degree in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties. The applications are invited through the Office of our Ambassadors and long-term partners, The First Ladies of Africa and Ministry of Health of each country,” shared Dr Rasha Kelej.

To Apply for In-campus Scholarships in Fertility, Oncology, Diabetes and other specialties:

https://apo-opa.co/4cc7x90

To Apply for Online Scholarships, visit:

https://apo-opa.co/4c9nLj7

The selection for each scholarship will be based on request by First Lady Office, Ministry of Health and / or Medical Society with the aim to fill the gaps of public healthcare system in each country.

The selection will be based on eligibility criteria fulfillment of each training Institute and Foundation, scholarship availability and fund availability.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager 
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/41jDWWd
X: https://apo-opa.co/3NNY53J
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/3PTtKRU
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4sus0w8
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4tCEuCS
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4tBljt5
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4e7JISn

About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/41jDWWd), X (https://apo-opa.co/3NNY53J), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4sus0w8), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3PTtKRU), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4tCEuCS) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4tBljt5).

The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.

Media files

.

Morocco Gas Plan Reset Could Open Door to New Investment Models

Source: APO


.

Morocco’s decision earlier this year to pause elements of its long-anticipated LNG import strategy marks less a delay than a strategic reset – one that reflects both shifting global market dynamics and a more pragmatic approach to infrastructure development.

In January 2026, the Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development suspended tenders for a planned LNG import terminal at Nador West Med and associated pipeline infrastructure, just weeks after launching the process in December 2025. The proposed project was ambitious: a floating terminal with regasification capacity of around 5 billion cubic meters (bcm) per year – more than four times Morocco’s current gas demand of roughly 1 bcm – designed to anchor a national gas network linking industrial hubs from Nador to Kenitra and Mohammedia.

While global LNG market volatility, rising financing costs and uncertainty around long-term demand have complicated the economics of large-scale import infrastructure, Morocco’s decision to reassess both timing and structure reflects a measured and forward-looking approach. Rather than locking into a capital-intensive model, the country is creating space to align infrastructure development more closely with market realities.

This comes at a critical moment. Gas demand is projected to rise to around 8 bcm by 2027, driven by power generation and industrial growth as Morocco reduces coal dependence while targeting renewables to account for 52% of installed capacity by 2030. Meeting this demand will require new infrastructure, but increasingly in forms that offer flexibility, scalability and improved risk allocation.

One area gaining traction is the development of modular LNG solutions. Phased infrastructure – particularly floating storage and regasification units – offers a pathway to bring capacity online more quickly while reducing upfront capital exposure. Such models allow supply to scale alongside demand and provide greater resilience in a volatile pricing environment.

At the same time, Morocco is advancing reforms to strengthen market structure and enhance competitiveness. Policymakers have emphasized the need for greater private sector participation, alongside ongoing reforms to state entities including ONHYM, aimed at improving pricing transparency and market efficiency. As ONHYM transitions toward a more commercial framework, its role in facilitating partnerships and enabling investment across midstream and gas-to-power segments is expected to expand.

Morocco’s existing infrastructure further supports this transition. Since 2022, the country has imported LNG via Spanish terminals using reverse flows through the Maghreb-Europe Gas Pipeline, providing interim supply without the need for immediate large-scale domestic regasification. While limited in capacity, this system offers flexibility and allows Morocco to optimize the timing and structure of future investments.

For investors, this reset broadens the opportunity set. Rather than a single large-scale LNG terminal, there is now scope to participate across a more diversified value chain – from storage and regasification to downstream industrial use and power generation. Smaller, phased projects are not only more adaptable but also better aligned with current financing conditions, supporting more efficient capital deployment.

Morocco’s evolving strategy will be a key focus at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum in Paris next month, where the country will be featured in a dedicated Country Spotlight session. With participation from ONHYM and other senior stakeholders, including Managing Director Amina Benkhadra, the forum will provide a platform to outline Morocco’s revised gas roadmap and engage directly with investors on emerging opportunities across the value chain.

With gas demand projected to reach up to 12 bcm by 2030, Morocco’s long-term fundamentals remain strong. What is changing is the model – shifting toward more flexible, commercially driven solutions that reflect both market conditions and investor priorities.

As Morocco refines its LNG strategy, its approach highlights a broader trend across emerging markets: in a volatile global energy landscape, adaptability is increasingly defining investment success.

IAE 2026 (http://apo-opa.co/4c5P4Li) is an exclusive forum designed to connect African energy markets with global investors, serving as a key platform for deal-making in the lead-up to African Energy Week. Scheduled for April 22–23, 2026, in Paris, the event will provide delegates with two days of in-depth engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or register as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

Une experte biomédicale ghanéenne reçoit un prix international

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

À l’occasion de la Journée mondiale de la santé, Mercy Ships (https://MercyShips.org) rend un hommage vibrant à l’experte biomédicale Deborah Geneugelijk Nutsugah. Nommée « Lauréate humanitaire de l’année » lors des Tech Choice Awards 2026, sa contribution exceptionnelle à l’amélioration de la sécurité des soins chirurgicaux dans les pays à faibles ressources a été reconnue à l’échelle internationale.

« Cette reconnaissance ne me concerne pas seulement, elle reflète le dévouement de toute une équipe qui travaille en coulisses pour rendre la chirurgie possible », a déclaré Deborah. « Les professionnels biomédicaux sont souvent invisibles, mais le plus petit problème technique peut avoir de graves conséquences si l’équipement n’est pas correctement entretenu. »

À bord de l’un des plus grands navires-hôpitaux non gouvernementaux au monde, Deborah joue un rôle essentiel pour garantir que les équipements médicaux qui permettent de transformer des vies soient sûrs, fonctionnels et adaptés à des environnements difficiles.

« Contrairement aux hôpitaux traditionnels, Mercy Ships opère en mer, où même les équipements médicaux les plus précis doivent fonctionner dans un environnement en mouvement constant. Le navire n’est pas aussi stable que la terre ferme ; il oscille continuellement », explique Deborah. 

Réputée pour son ingéniosité et ses compétences en résolution de problèmes, Deborah a toujours su trouver des moyens innovants d’adapter et d’entretenir des équipements médicaux complexes, garantissant ainsi des soins ininterrompus aux patients. Dans certains cas, l’équipe biomédicale doit transporter le matériel à terre pour l’étalonner ou coordonner ses efforts avec l’équipage du navire pour le stabiliser lui-même.

« Lors d’interventions délicates, telles que les chirurgies oculaires, le moindre mouvement peut s’avérer critique. Parfois, nous travaillons avec les officiers du navire pour ajuster les systèmes de ballast et améliorer la stabilité », dit-elle. 

Ces défis soulignent une réalité plus large mise en avant lors de la Journée mondiale de la santé : l’accès à des soins de santé sûrs ne dépend pas seulement des chirurgiens et des infirmières, mais aussi de techniciens experts hautement qualifiés travaillant en coulisses.

Cette distinction accompagne une nouvelle étape majeure dans le parcours de Deborah, qui endosse désormais le rôle de coordinatrice des services biomédicaux : lors de la prochaine mission de Mercy Ships, Deborah et sa sœur jumelle serviront leur pays natal, le Ghana. 

« Retourner au Ghana avec cette mission est vraiment significatif », confie-t-elle. « Pouvoir contribuer au renforcement des soins de santé dans le pays où nous avons grandi est à la fois un privilège et une responsabilité. »

Le prix de la « Lauréate humanitaire de l’année » sera officiellement remis le 8 avril lors du salon MD Expo Baltimore, qui rassemble les leaders du secteur pour célébrer l’innovation et les impacts positifs sur les technologies de santé.

Préparant son retour sur le navire-hôpital, Deborah ne pourra donc pas recevoir le prix en personne. C’est donc le prix qui fera le voyage pour la rejoindre aux Pays-Bas, où elle réside actuellement.

Ce sera la deuxième fois qu’un bénévole de Mercy Ships remporte ce prix ; le technicien en équipement biomédical Emmanuel Essah a reçu cette même distinction en 2024.

Mercy Ships travaille en étroite collaboration avec le ministère de la Santé du Ghana pour fournir des soins chirurgicaux, des formations et un renforcement des capacités à long terme aux professionnels de santé locaux comme Deborah lors de la prochaine mission.

Distribué par APO Group pour Mercy Ships.

A propos de Mercy Ships :
Mercy Ships est une organisation humanitaire internationale qui déploie les deux plus grands navires-hôpitaux civils au monde, l’Africa Mercy® et le Global Mercy™, pour fournir des soins chirurgicaux gratuits et de première qualité aux plus démunis. L’ONG internationale fondée sur des valeurs chrétiennes soutient également le développement durable des systèmes de santé des pays hôtes par la formation des professionnels de la santé et la construction d’infrastructures médicales.

Créé en Suisse en 1978 par Don et Deyon Stephens, Mercy Ships est intervenu dans 55 pays. A bord de ses navires, une moyenne de 2 500 bénévoles par an, issus de 70 pays, contribuent à l’œuvre de Mercy Ships. Des professionnels tels que chirurgiens, dentistes, personnel infirmier, formateurs dans le domaine de la santé, cuisiniers, marins, enseignants, ingénieurs… dédient leur temps et leurs compétences à cette cause.

Avec des bureaux dans 16 pays et un Centre opérationnel pour l’Afrique basé à Dakar, au Sénégal, Mercy Ships se met au service des nations en restaurant santé et dignité.

Pour de plus amples informations, visitez https://MercyShips.org et suivez @MercyShips sur les réseaux sociaux

Media files

Afreximbank va débloquer 10 milliards de dollars dans le cadre de son Programme d’intervention d’urgence face à la crise du Golfe (GCRP) afin de protéger les économies africaines et celles de la Communauté des Caraïbes (CARICOM) contre le conflit en cours

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Afin de faire face aux graves chocs économiques provoqués par l’escalade du conflit au Moyen-Orient, le conseil d’administration de la Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) a approuvé un programme d’intervention d’urgence face à la crise du Golfe (GCRP) d’un montant de 10 milliards de dollars US. Le programme vise notamment à protéger les économies, les institutions financières et les entreprises d’Afrique et des Caraïbes contre les répercussions de la crise actuelle dans le Golfe.

Le conflit, qui s’est intensifié le 28 février 2026, a provoqué une onde de choc dans l’économie mondiale, les économies africaines et caribéennes étant les plus durement touchées. Compte tenu de l’importance de la région du Golfe en tant que principale source mondiale de pétrole, de gaz naturel liquéfié (GNL) et d’engrais, ainsi que du rôle crucial du détroit d’Ormuz, le déclenchement de ce conflit a eu des répercussions plus larges à l’échelle mondiale, affectant notamment de manière négative les économies africaines et celles de la CARICOM. Ces répercussions touchent plus particulièrement les pays qui dépendent fortement des importations de carburant, d’engrais et de denrées alimentaires, ainsi que ceux qui sont exposés aux couloirs maritimes du Golfe, aux flux d’investissement, au tourisme et aux transferts de fonds.

Le GCRP vise, entre autres, à assurer la continuité des importations essentielles – notamment de carburant, de GNL, de denrées alimentaires, d’engrais et de produits pharmaceutiques – en fournissant des devises étrangères et des liquidités vitales à court terme afin de soutenir les États membres vulnérables. Il vise en outre à permettre aux exportateurs africains d’énergie et de minerais de tirer parti de la hausse des prix et de la réorientation des flux commerciaux, en augmentant la capacité de production des matières premières stratégiques grâce au financement pré-exportation, au fonds de roulement et au financement des stocks. Par ailleurs, il apporte une aide à court terme aux États membres d’Afrique et des Caraïbes dont les secteurs du tourisme et de l’aviation ont été durement touchés par la crise. Ce programme vise également à renforcer la résilience à moyen et long terme des économies africaines et caribéennes face aux chocs futurs, en développant les capacités de production des producteurs et des exportateurs d’énergie et de minerais, tout en accélérant l’achèvement des projets d’infrastructures énergétiques, portuaires et logistiques essentiels dans les États membres d’Afrique et des Caraïbes, dont la réalisation a été retardée par le conflit.

Lors du lancement de la Facilité le 31 mars, Dr George Elombi, Président d’Afreximbank et du Conseil d’administration de la Banque a déclaré : « Ce programme d’intervention face à la crise est en phase avec notre ADN. Nous comprenons le fonctionnement de nos économies et les difficultés liées à ces crises transitoires. Ce programme aidera les pays africains à s’adapter en douceur à la crise tout en renforçant leur résilience face aux chocs futurs grâce à des interventions qui transforment la structure de leurs économies. Je félicite le conseil d’administration d’Afreximbank pour sa proactivité et sa détermination à approuver ce programme d’intervention ».

Le GCRP s’appuie sur une série d’interventions d’urgence opportunes mises en place par Afreximbank ces dernières années, qui ont contribué à protéger de nombreuses économies contre l’impact de chocs récents tels que la crise des matières premières de 2015/2016, la pandémie de COVID-19 de 2020/2021 et la crise ukrainienne de 2023/2024. Par exemple, la Banque a lancé un programme africain de financement du commerce pour l’ajustement à la crise ukrainienne (UKAFPA) d’un montant de 4 milliards de dollars US afin d’aider les pays africains à faire face aux répercussions commerciales et économiques de la crise ukrainienne. Dans le cadre de ce programme, la Banque a décaissé un total de 39 milliards de dollars US, ce qui a aidé la plupart des pays d’Afrique à combler les déficits liés à la liquidité ou à l’accès aux biens essentiels.

Ces interventions historiques soulignent la capacité d’Afreximbank à déployer des cadres de réduction des risques solides et innovants pour aider ses États membres à faire face à la volatilité mondiale, avec un bilan positif.

Dans le cadre du GCRP, Afreximbank a déjà commencé à prendre des mesures proactives, par le biais de partenariats avec des banques et des entreprises, afin de garantir l’approvisionnement en carburant, en autres sources d’énergie, en engrais et en denrées alimentaires essentielles, dont les livraisons ont été interrompues par le prolongement de la crise. Au-delà du financement, Afreximbank mènera une réponse régionale coordonnée en partenariat avec la Commission économique des Nations unies pour l’Afrique (CEA), la Commission de l’Union africaine (CUA), le Secrétariat de la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECA) et le Secrétariat de la Communauté des Caraïbes (CARICOM) afin de renforcer la coordination régionale en matière de sécurité énergétique, de résilience commerciale et de diversification des chaînes d’approvisionnement.

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

Contact Presse :
Vincent Musumba
Responsable des communications et de la gestion événementielle (Relations presse)
Courriel : press@afreximbank.com

Suivez-nous sur :
 X: https://apo-opa.co/41iZ8vt
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4e5UNDl
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4dyzryw
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4shsCos

À propos d’Afreximbank :
La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) est une institution financière multilatérale panafricaine dédiée au financement et à la promotion du commerce intra et extra-africain. Depuis 30 ans, Afreximbank déploie des structures innovantes pour fournir des solutions de financement qui facilitent la transformation de la structure du commerce africain et accélèrent l’industrialisation et le commerce intrarégional, soutenant ainsi l’expansion économique en Afrique. Fervente défenseur de l’Accord sur la Zone de Libre-Échange Continentale Africaine (ZLECAf), Afreximbank a lancé les le Système panafricain de paiement et de règlement (PAPSS) qui a été adopté par l’Union africaine (UA) comme la plateforme de paiement et de règlement devant appuyer la mise en œuvre de la ZLECAf. En collaboration avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf et l’UA, la Banque a mis en place un Fonds d’ajustement de 10 milliards de dollars US pour aider les pays à participer de manière effective à la ZLECAf. À la fin de décembre 2024, le total des actifs et des garanties de la Banque s’élevait à environ 40,1 milliards de dollars US et les fonds de ses actionnaires s’établissaient à 7,2 milliards de dollars US. Afreximbank est notée AAA par China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI), A par GCR, A- par Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) Moody’s (Baa2). Au fil des ans, Afreximbank est devenue un groupe constitué de la Banque, de sa filiale de financement à impact appelée Fonds de développement des exportations en Afrique (FEDA), et de sa filiale de gestion d’assurance, AfrexInsure, (les trois entités forment « le Groupe »). La Banque a son siège social au Caire, en Égypte.

Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez visiter www.Afreximbank.com

Media files