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Communiqué du quatrième forum Afrique-caraïbes sur le commerce et l’investissement

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Nous, la Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) et le gouvernement de la Grenade, avons convoqué le quatrième Forum Afrique-Caraïbes sur le commerce et l’investissement (ACTIF2025) du 28 au 29 juillet 2025 à George’s, Grenade, sous le thème  « Résilience et transformation – Renforcer la coopération économique Afrique-Caraïbes dans un contexte d’incertitude mondiale.

RECONNAISSANT les liens historiques, culturels et ancestraux profonds qui unissent l’Afrique et les Caraïbes, et réaffirmant notre engagement commun en faveur de l’avancement d’une Afrique mondiale prospère et autonome ;

SALUANT la reconnaissance par l’Union africaine de la diaspora africaine en tant que sixième région du continent, ainsi que son rôle essentiel dans la promotion du commerce, de l’investissement, de l’innovation et du développement durable dans les deux régions ;

RAPPELANT les déclarations et les conclusions des précédents forums de l’ACTIF – ACTIF2022 (Bridgetown, Barbade), ACTIF2023 (Georgetown, Guyana) et ACTIF2024 (Nassau, Bahamas) – qui appelaient à une intégration politique, économique et culturelle plus profonde entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes ;

RECONNAISSANT en outre la nécessité de renforcer la résilience dans un paysage mondial de plus en plus fragile et incertain, marqué par des crises climatiques, des pandémies, une montée en puissance du protectionnisme, des vulnérabilités liées à la dette et des dynamiques géopolitiques changeantes ;

CONSCIENTS des obstacles structurels persistants à l’intégration afro-caribéenne, notamment l’insuffisance des transports et de la connectivité, l’accès limité au commerce et au financement de projets, et le désalignement réglementaire ; dont la résolution présente des opportunités de croissance grâce à l’intégration régionale dans des secteurs tels que l’énergie, l’hôtellerie et le tourisme, l’agriculture et l’agroalimentaire, l’industrie manufacturière, les industries créatives et culturelles, la santé, les services financiers, les transports et la logistique ;

AFFIRMANT qu’il est impératif de renforcer les marchés intra-africains et intra-caribéens, tout en développant simultanément le commerce et l’investissement afro-caribéens pour favoriser une prospérité et une transformation partagées.

CONVENONS DE CE QUI SUIT :

NOUS ENGAGEONS à soutenir l’approfondissement de la coopération entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes, en mettant l’accent sur la construction de chaînes de valeur transrégionales résilientes dans des secteurs stratégiques tels que l’agriculture, le tourisme, l’énergie, les infrastructures, la santé, les services financiers, l’industrie manufacturière et les économies créatives et numériques ;

SALUONS l’approbation de l’établissement et de la mise en œuvre d’un accord de libre-échange Afrique-Caraïbes, visant à éliminer les obstacles au commerce, à renforcer la cohérence réglementaire et à débloquer l’accès mutuel aux marchés ;

NOUS ENGAGEONS à appuyer et à accélérer la mise en œuvre de politiques et d’instruments permettant d’établir des liaisons aériennes et maritimes directes entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes, et APPELONS la Commission de l’Union africaine (CUA), le Secrétariat de la CARICOM, l’Organisation des États des Caraïbes orientales (OECO), le Centre du commerce international, le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf, l’Organisation du secteur privé de la CARICOM (CPSO), l’AfriCaribbean Business Council [le Conseil des entreprises afrocaribéennes-ACBC] et les parties prenantes du secteur privé en vue de créer des corridors commerciaux durables et commercialement viables.

SALUONS le large éventail d’accords commerciaux et d’investissement, d’un montant de plus de 300 millions de dollars US, qui ont été annoncés au cours de l’ACTIF2025, couvrant les infrastructures, la fabrication, la logistique, les services numériques, le tourisme et l’agro-industrie, et ENCOURAGEONS une plus grande participation des PME, des entreprises dirigées par des femmes et des jeunes ;

ENCOURAGEONS le développement constant de l’AfriCaribbean Business Council (ACBC) dans le cadre du partenariat entre l’Organisation du secteur privé des Caraïbes et l’Africa Business Council [ Conseil des entreprises africaines] en tant que plateforme dynamique pour catalyser les liens interentreprises, renforcer la promotion du commerce et résoudre les défis communs du secteur privé ;

SALUONS l’approbation de la Commission pour l’Afrique mondiale en vue de stimuler et de renforcer les relations économiques et culturelles entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes par le Gouvernement de la Grenade, Saint-Kitts-et-Nevis et d’autres dirigeants de l’Organisation des États des Caraïbes orientales ; et APPELONS les chefs d’État et de gouvernement africains et des Caraïbes à approuver la Commission pour l’Afrique mondiale lors du Sommet Afrique-Caraïbes à Addis-Abeba en septembre 2025 ; 

SALUONS également l’ambition d’établir des Championnats d’Afrique mondiale d’athlétisme en tant qu’initiative historique renforçant le développement de la jeunesse et la diplomatie sportive entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes et en tant qu’une des initiatives de la Commission pour l’Afrique mondiale ;

RECONNAISSONS le rôle central joué par les partenaires stratégiques, y compris la Commission de l’Union africaine (CUA), le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf, le Secrétariat de la CARICOM, l’Organisation des États des Caraïbes orientales et le Centre du commerce international, dans la promotion de la vision commune de l’Afrique mondiale ;

ENCOURAGEONS les deux régions à parler d’une seule voix sur les questions mondiales, en préconisant des systèmes de commerce équitable et des réformes économiques qui reflètent les aspirations collectives ;

RÉCLAMONS une action conjointe en Afrique et dans les Caraïbes et un plaidoyer en faveur de la justice climatique au niveau mondial ;

DEMANDONS la réalisation d’études stratégiques pour optimiser les liens économiques, sociaux et culturels entre les Caraïbes et l’Afrique ;

SOULIGNONS l’impérieuse nécessité de supprimer les restrictions en matière de visas afin de promouvoir les mouvements entrepreneuriaux ainsi que le commerce et les investissements entre les deux régions ;

SALUONS la collaboration visant à remédier aux pénuries de compétences numériques et aux lacunes de capacités dans les secteurs des télécommunications et du numérique qui entravent le développement régional et nécessitent une attention immédiate par le biais de programmes de transfert de compétences et de connaissances ;

FÉLICITONS le gouvernement de la Grenade et les autres États de l’OECO pour avoir présenté des opportunités concrètes bancables ;

FÉLICITIONS en outre les 13 pays qui ont signé l’accord de partenariat d’Afreximbank et exhortons les pays restants à officialiser leur participation afin de bénéficier pleinement de services de financement, de facilitation et de conseil adaptés ;

RECONNAISSONS la nécessité urgente d’investir dans des infrastructures qui libèrent les opportunités de commerce et d’investissement entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes dans des secteurs tels que l’énergie, les transports, le haut débit, les ports, l’écotourisme, et APPELONS les institutions de financement du développement à concevoir des solutions ciblées pour ce programme ;

RECONNAISSONS PAR AILLEURS le rôle important de l’économie créative et numérique – y compris la musique, le cinéma, la littérature, la mode, les arts visuels et le sport – en tant que moteur dynamique de croissance, d’identité et d’autonomisation des jeunes, et félicitons Afreximbank pour ses initiatives en faveur du secteur ;

FÉLICITONS M. George Elombi pour sa nomination au poste de quatrième Président d’Afreximbank et du Conseil d’administration de la Banque ;

NOUS ENGAGEONS à poursuivre la tenue du Forum Afrique-Caraibes sur le commerce et l’investissement , et réaffirmons notre plein soutien à l’ACTIF2026, en tant que plate-forme phare pour accélérer le commerce, l’investissement et l’intégration afro-caribéens.

MOTION DE REMERCIEMENTS

EXPRIMONS notre profonde reconnaissance aux 2 106 délégués issus de plus de 80 pays d’Afrique, des Caraïbes et de la communauté internationale pour leur participation active et leur contribution à l’ACTIF2025, y compris 11 chefs d’État et de gouvernement, des hauts fonctionnaires, des dirigeants d’entreprises, des artistes, des universitaires, des partenaires de développement, 85 conférenciers et modérateurs et 102 exposants ;

EXPRIMONS également notre gratitude aux anciens chefs d’Etat et de gouvernement, S. E. Olusegun Obasanjo, ancien Président du Nigéria, S. E. Mahamadou Issoufou, ancien Président du Niger, et M. Percival J. Patterson, ancien Premier ministre de la Jamaïque, pour leur sagesse et leurs conseils dans la définition du cap de l’Afrique mondiale ;

REMERCIONS en outre la Commission de l’Union africaine, le Secrétariat de la Communauté des Caraïbes, le Secrétariat de la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine, le Secrétariat de l’Organisation des États des Caraïbes orientales, l’Organisation des Nations Unies et le Centre du commerce international pour leur soutien continu au renforcement des relations entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes ;

EXPRIMONs notre profonde gratitude au peuple de la Grenade, sous la direction de la Gouverneure générale, Dame Cécile La Grenade, et du Premier ministre, l’honorable Dickon Mitchell, pour leur hospitalité exceptionnelle et l’organisation sans faille du Forum ;

SALUONS enfin le leadership visionnaire du Professeur Benedict Oramah, Président d’Afreximbank et du Conseil d’administration de la Banque, et FELICITONS la Banque et ses partenaires pour leur engagement inébranlable à faire avancer la vision d’une Afrique mondiale unie et autonome grâce à la plateforme ACTIF.

Fait le 29 juillet 2025 à George’s, Grenada.

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

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

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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 A par GCR International Scale, Baa2 par Moody’s, AAA par China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI), A- par Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) et BBB par Fitch. 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

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Fourth Africaribbean Trade and Investment Forum Communiqué

Source: APO – Report:

We, the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) and the Government of Grenada, convened the Fourth AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2025) from 28 to 29 July 2025 in St. George’s, Grenada, under the theme, Resilience and Transformation – Enhancing the Africa-Caribbean Economic Cooperation in an Era of Global Uncertainty.

RECOGNIZING the profound historical, cultural, and ancestral bonds that unite Africa and the Caribbean, and reaffirming our joint commitment to the advancement of a prosperous and self-reliant Global Africa.

ACKNOWLEDGING the African Union’s recognition of the African Diaspora as the sixth region of the continent, and its critical role in fostering trade, investment, innovation, and sustainable development across the two regions.

RECALLING the declarations and outcomes of previous ACTIF forums—ACTIF2022 (Bridgetown, Barbados), ACTIF2023 (Georgetown, Guyana), and ACTIF2024 (Nassau, The Bahamas)—which called for deeper political, economic, and cultural integration between Africa and the Caribbean.

RECOGNIZING the need to build resilience amid an increasingly fragile and uncertain global landscape—marked by climate crises, pandemics, rising protectionism, debt vulnerabilities, and shifting geopolitical dynamics.

CONSCIOUS of the persistent structural barriers to AfriCaribbean integration, including inadequate transportation and connectivity, limited access to trade and project finance, and regulatory misalignment; whose resolution present opportunities for growth through regional integration in sectors such as energy, hospitality and tourism, agriculture and agroprocessing, manufacturing, creative and cultural industries,health, financial services, transport and logistics.

AFFIRMING the imperative of strengthening intra-African and intra-Caribbean markets, while simultaneously expanding African-Caribbean trade and investment to drive shared prosperity and transformation.

WE HEREBY:

COMMIT to supporting the deepening  of cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean, with a focus on building resilient cross-regional value chains in strategic sectors such as agriculture, tourism, energy, infrastructure, health, financial services, manufacturing, and the creative and digital economies.

WELCOME the endorsement for the establishment and operationalization of an Africa–Caribbean Free Trade Arrangement, to eliminate trade barriers, enhance regulatory coherence, and unlock mutual market access.

UNDERTAKE to support, and fast-track the implementation of enabling policies and instruments to establish direct air and maritime links between Africa and the Caribbean, and CALL UPON the African Union Commission (AUC), CARICOM Secretariat, Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), International Trade Center, AfCFTA Secretariat, CARICOM Private Sector Organisation (CPSO), AfriCaribbean Business Council (ACBC), and private sector stakeholders to collaborate towards sustainable and commercially viable trade corridors.

WELCOME the wide range of trade and investment deals amounting to over US$ 300 million that were announced during ACTIF2025, spanning infrastructure,   manufacturing, logistics, digital services, tourism, and agribusiness—and ENCOURAGE greater participation by SMEs, women- and youth-led enterprises.

SUPPORT the continued growth of the AfriCaribbean Business Council (ACBC) under the partnership of the Caribbean Private Sector Organisation and the Africa Business Council as a dynamic platform to catalyze business-to-business linkages, strengthen trade promotion, and resolve common private sector challenges.

WELCOME the endorsement of the Global Africa Commission to drive and strengthen Africa-Caribbean economic and cultural relations by the Government of Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis and other leaders of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States; and call on African and Carribeean Heads of State and Government to endorse the Global Africa Commission at the African-Carribean Summit in Addis Ababa in September 2025. 

COMMEND the ambition of establishing a Global Africa Athletics Championships as a landmark initiative strengthening youth development and sports diplomacy between Africa and the Caribbean and as one of the initiatives of the Global Africa Commission

ACKNOWLEDGE the pivotal role played by strategic partners including the African Union Commission (AUC), the AfCFTA Secretariat, the CARICOM Secretariat, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States, and the International Trade Center in advancing the shared vision of Global Africa.

ENCOURAGE both regions to speak with one voice on global matters, pushing for fair trade systems and economic reforms that reflect collective aspirations

CALL  for joint Africa and Caribbean action and advocacy for climate justice at the global level

CALL for strategic studies to optimise Caribbean-African economic, social and cultural linkages.

EMPHASISE the imperative of eliminating of visa restrictions to promote entrepreneurial movement and promote trade and investment between the two regions.

WELCOME collaboration to adress digital skills shortages and capacity gaps in telecommunications and digital sectors that are hampering regional development and require immediate attention through skills and knowledge transfer programs COMMEND the Government of Grenada and fellow OECS states for showcasing concrete bankable opportunities.

APPLAUD the 13 countries that have signed onto Afreximbank’s Partnership Agreement and urge remaining countries to formalize participation in order to fully benefit from tailored financing, facilitation and advisory services.

ACKNOWLEDGE the urgent need to invest in  infrastructure that unlocks Caribbean- African trade and investment opportunities in sectors such as  —energy, transport, broadband, ports, eco-tourism—and CALL ON development finance institutions to design targeted solutions for this agenda.

RECOGNIZE the important role of the creative and digital economy—including music, film, literature, fashion, visual arts, and sports—as a vibrant engine for growth, identity, and youth empowerment and commend Afreximbank for its initiatives in support of the sector.

CONGRATULATE Dr. George Elombi on his appointment as the fourth President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the African Export-Import Bank.

COMMIT to the continued convening of the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum, and reaffirm our full support for ACTIF2026, as a flagship platform to accelerate Afro-Caribbean trade, investment, and integration.

VOTE OF THANKS

Express our deep appreciation to the 2,106 delegates from over 80 countries across Africa, the Caribbean, and the wider international community for their active participation and contribution to ACTIF2025—including 11 Heads of State and Government , senior government officials, business executives, artists, scholars, development partners, 85 speakers and moderators and 102 exhibitors.

Extend our gratitude to Former Heads of State Government His Excellency Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Former President of Nigeria, His Excellency Mahamadou Issoufou, Former President of Niger, and Right Honourable Percival J. Patterson, Former Prime Minister of Jamaica for their wisdom and guidance in charting the course of Global Africa.

We thank the African Union Commission, Caribbean Community Secretariat, African Free Trade Area Secretariat, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States Secretariat, the United Nations, and the International Trade Center for their continued support in building African-Caribbean relations.

We express our deep appreciation to the People of Grenada led by the Governor- General Dame Cecile La Grenade and Prime Minister, The Honourable Dickon Mitchell, for their exceptional hospitality and seamless organization of the Forum.

We acknowledge the visionary leadership of Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, and commend the Bank and its partners for their unwavering commitment to advancing the vision of a united and empowered Global Africa through the ACTIF platform.

29th day of July 2025 in St. George’s, Grenada.

– on behalf of Afreximbank.

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

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About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

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Youth in Oil & Gas Summit Founder Calls for Pragmatic Leadership to Empower Youth in Namibia

Source: APO – Report:

Justina Erastus, Founder of the Youth in Oil and Gas Summit in Namibia, called on the country’s leaders to empower the youth across the industry by providing access to job experiences and skills training. Highlighting the need to provide youth with the chance to gain experience, she drew insight into the instrumental role youth play in the evolving oil and gas sector – not only as participants, but as the visionary leaders of tomorrow.

Delivering opening remarks during the second edition of the Youth in Oil and Gas Summit in Namibia this July, Erastus explained that youth often face challenges gaining experience across the oil and gas sector, particularly in emerging markets such as Namibia. As such, the country’s leaders have a vital role to play in ensuring accessibility.

She said: “Investing in young Namibians is investing in the promise of a brighter tomorrow. How else do we empower the youth without giving them chances? It is not about experience, if you don’t have the experience, how will you gain it if the leaders do not give us a chance? Enough about the social media clickbait – we need to start hiring and training our youth.”

The Youth in Oil and Gas Summit offered a platform for industry leaders, international companies and Namibian youth to connect. Erastus explained that the summit “is a movement fueled by passion, true collaboration and the belief in our youth.” She added that the summit has evolved to become “a national project that is designed to empower every young Namibian, so that they see themselves as innovators and decision makers. This summit is situated at the crossroads of policy, investment and talent development, giving Namibians the tools to leverage their networks, sharpen their skills and launch their various careers.”

The summit comes as Namibia prepares for first oil production by 2029, led by industry players such as TotalEnergies, Shell, Chevron, Galp, Rhino Resources, ReconAfrica and more. This milestone is expected to spur the creation of a domestic fuel hub in Namibia, further bolstered by ongoing gas development at the Kudu field and onshore exploration in the Kavango basin. For Namibians, domestic oil and gas production offers the promise of fuel security, job creation and local business opportunities.

“I see a future where Namibia is 100% electrified, thanks to our oil and gas resources. I see a Namibia where we are a leading oil producing country, fueling industrial growth and driving regional integration. To every young person here – seize this moment,” added Erastus.

Namibia’s emerging oil and gas industry offers a range of opportunities across the entire value chain. As a sector largely in its infancy stage, the oil and gas industry requires significant levels of investment, innovation and technology. It is within this scenario that the youth have a vital role to play.

“Oil and gas is not an industry that is exclusively for the petrochemical, engineer or geophysicist. It is a long, interconnected value chain that calls for logistics experts, catering companies, waste managers, asset custodians, communicators and even creatives. There is room for every passion every skill and every dream,” stated Erastus. 

As such, Erastus called for a rethinking when it comes to youth in the Namibian oil and gas sector. The country has a unique opportunity to implement bold policies, prioritize inclusivity and empower the youth before the industry has even developed. For Namibia’s youth, Erastus underscored the need to think, not only of opportunity today, but how the youth can transform the industry of tomorrow.

“Let us think of ourselves not only as participants but as the visionary leaders of tomorrow. We should be leaders that uplift our communities and choose integrity over convenience. Leaders who rewrite the narrative of possibility. Let us create a future that is prosperous, safe and enabling, not just for ourselves but for the generations yet to come,” Erastus concluded.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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African Energy Chamber (AEC) Advocates for Namibia’s Youth-Led Energy Future

Source: APO – Report:

Namibia’s emerging oil and gas sector is set to become a cornerstone of national economic development, with youth empowerment, skills training, infrastructure readiness and policy reform forming key pillars of its long-term strategy. Speaking at the second edition of the Youth in Oil and Gas Summit held in Walvis Bay, NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org), discussed the importance of inclusive participation in the energy sector, calling for stronger public-private collaboration to ensure Namibia’s resources deliver impact for local communities.

As Namibia prepares for first oil from major offshore discoveries in the Orange Basin – led by global energy players such as TotalEnergies, Shell, Galp and Chevron – the summit spotlighted the need for foundational capacity building, including STEM education, vocational training and investment in youth entrepreneurship. The event, spearheaded by Justina Erastus, and supported by key national institutions such as Petrofund, emphasized local ownership and workforce integration as the industry scales up.

“A future that speaks to the hearts and minds of all Namibians is a future that speaks to the hearts of every Africa,” Ayuk stated, adding, “When we see what you are building for your country, we know the future is bright.”

According to the AEC, Namibia’s anticipated offshore production will require robust support infrastructure ranging from marine services and logistics hubs to data centers and grid-connected baseload power. Ayuk highlighted that energy demand linked to digital infrastructure – including AI, cloud computing and data storage – would require consistent, large-scale electricity generation. This positions Namibia’s oil and natural gas sector as a potential anchor for industrial development.

While acknowledging global climate priorities, the AEC emphasized that Namibia and other African nations must have the right to leverage their natural resources to combat energy poverty. With Africa contributing less than 3% to global greenhouse gas emissions, the Chamber maintained that international climate policies must account for the continent’s development needs.

“There are forces around the globe telling us that climate change is the problem. But how do you think Europe became what it is? How do you think America became what it is? How do you think Asia became what it is? They use oil. They use coal. They make billions for themselves. And right now, they tell you in this country, you don’t deserve the right to use your oil. We don’t agree with that,” Ayuk stated.

Institutional partners such as Petrofund were recognized for their role in providing scholarships and technical training for Namibians, especially women and youth. Petrofund’s investment in vocational education and postgraduate studies has directly supported the country’s efforts to create a skilled workforce ready to meet industry demand.

Ayuk also called on industry players, government and academia to create synergy around youth capacity building. He urged energy companies operating in Namibia to commit to meaningful local content policies and to make space for young professionals in both technical and leadership roles.

“We’ve got to figure out how to make industries more accommodating to young women. Globally, we’ve seen less than 70% women in the oil and gas industry. That’s not enough,” Ayuk added.

The summit also underscored the importance of regulatory and policy coherence to support industrial growth. The AEC reaffirmed its support for ongoing efforts by Namibia’s Upstream Petroleum Unit to align national frameworks with global best practices, while tailoring them to the country’s unique socioeconomic landscape.

Namibia’s growing energy ecosystem, including downstream infrastructure, local fabrication capacity and training institutions, stands to benefit from strategic investments aligned with long-term goals. The AEC maintains that a balanced, pragmatic approach to energy – one that includes both hydrocarbons and renewables – will allow Namibia to transition sustainably while building wealth and creating jobs.

“It starts with you. It starts with what role you want to play. And the role you have to play that shaped the future. You represent that,” Ayuk concluded.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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United Arab Emirates (UAE) leaders congratulate Presidents of Benin, Switzerland on National Days

Source: APO – Report:

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President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent congratulatory messages to President Patrice Talon of Benin, and President Karin Keller-Sutter of the Swiss Confederation on the occasion of their countries’ National Days.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, also dispatched similar messages to the Presidents of Benin and the Swiss Confederation.

– on behalf of United Arab Emirates, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Deputy President Mashatile embarks on a cleaning campaign in Mangaung, Free State

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Tuesday, 05 August 2025, visit the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality in the Free State Province as part of the Clean Cities and Towns Campaign.

The Clean Cities, Towns and Villages integrated service delivery campaign was officially launched in Kliptown, Soweto in June this year as a national initiative aimed at fostering cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable urban and rural environments, where the communuty takes part in cleaning their environments, working together with the District and Local Municipalities. The campaign aligns with Government’s broader service delivery objectives under the District Development Model (DDM) and builds on the Free State Provinces “Bontle ke Botho”, which promotes community pride and shared responsibility for public spaces. 

The Mangaung leg of the campaign will be held under the theme: “Bontle Ke Botho: A Free State That Works for All – Building clean and sustainable communities”. 

The Clean Cities and Towns Campaign seeks to revitalise urban areas, enhance service delivery, and combat environmental degradation. It is also part of South Africa’s commitment to climate action to preserve the environment, support social cohesion initiatives and prioritise efforts for decent work, poverty eradication, and community resilience.

The visit by the Deputy President will mobilise communities and stakeholders to participate in cleaning and greening initiatives, showcase accelerated service delivery interventions, including waste management, infrastructure repairs, tree planting as well as reinforce partnerships between government, private sector, and residents to ensure sustainable urban development. 

The Deputy President will be accompanied by the National DDM Champions for Mangaung District Municipality, namely, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Parks Tau; Deputy Minister of Public Service and Administration, Ms Pinky Kekane; Deputy Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Environment, Ms Bernice Swarts, as well as Premier of the Free State, Mme MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae and Members of the Executive Council (MECs), the Executive Mayor of Manguang Metro Cllr. Gregory Nthatisi and Members of the Mayoral Committee (MMCs), as well as other senior leaders of government from national, provincial and local spheres of government. 

Details of the visit are as follows:
Date: Tuesday, 05 August 2025
Time: 09:00 (Media to start setting up at 08h00)
Venue: Mangaung Metropolitan Council Bloemfontein, Free State Province

Media wishing to cover the visit must please send their RSVPs to Ms Pulane Tsupane on 071 302 2595 or Pulane.Tsupane@fspremier.gov.za. 

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840.

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

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Renewable energy revolution isn’t just electric – it’s female

Source: Government of South Africa

The future of the renewable energy sector is female and Electricity and Energy Deputy Minister, Samantha Graham-Maré, is doubling down to make it happen. 

In an exclusive interview with SAnews on the sidelines of the Empowering Women in Energy breakfast, Graham-Maré revealed plans to review the department’s gender strategy to make it better equipped to shatter barriers and catapult women into leadership roles across electricity, renewables and previously uncharted fields like green hydrogen.

The event was held as part of the third G20 Energy Transitions Working Group (ETWG) in the North West.

“[The review is] giving us an opportunity to look at what worked and what didn’t work in the past, and then obviously to formulate a strategy that’s going to focus on the things that we need to do better while bringing women in,” she said on Friday.

Finding parity

The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that the sector is one of the least gender diverse, with women making up less than 20% of the workforce worldwide, while also earning at least 15% less than their male counterparts.

Meaningfully changing that, according to Graham-Maré, begins with getting young women enthusiastic about science, technology, engineering and mathematics with a view of entering the sector.

“We have got to start instilling some sort of understanding in young girls that this is an opportunity and that they have opportunities in the energy space. There are girls in villages in South Africa that have never heard of nuclear science, that have never heard of renewable energy and that don’t even know jobs like this exist. 

“We have to find ways… to reach particularly the rural youth and get that message out to them,” Graham-Maré said.

Bridging the awareness gap

The department will be partnering with organisations to reach those youth and conduct roadshows at universities.

“We’re going to speak to some of the students there because we believe a lot of them are feeling a bit demoralised… They’re not sure that there are going to be jobs for them when they finish studying.

“We’re partnering with a lot of our IPPs [Independent Power Producers], with some of the department members to go out to universities and have those conversations.

“We’re also developing a youth strategy. The focus will be both on women and youth, and making sure that they understand that there is space for them,” she said.

However, Graham-Maré emphasised that for the industry to grow and create new jobs, government must do its part.

“What we have to do is make sure that our IRP [Integrated Resource Plan] gets properly implemented and that we’re creating the pipeline of projects that will create the jobs.

“We also have the South African Renewable Energy Masterplan that we’ve launched, which is focusing on two things: industrialisation… looking at ways we can build manufacturing capability in the country, and we’re looking at how we can build the service industry around the renewable energy sector,” she said.

A “very strong focus” will also be placed on skills development in the sector.

“There are new skills required in the new industries and we need to make sure that people are ready for that. 

“The just energy transition is looking at how we transition people from a coal economy… into the renewable sector and the green economy. There’ll be a lot of focus on… reskilling, upskilling, and also new opportunities within the renewable sector that didn’t necessarily exist within the coal economy,” Graham-Maré told SAnews.

Crushing barriers

Reflecting on her own journey over the past year as Deputy Minister in a male dominated sector, Graham-Maré told SAnews that she has been enthralled by the “incredible women” already working in the energy space. 

“We are talking about women engineers. We’re talking about PhDs. The women in the energy space are absolutely mind blowing. 

“Another very interesting thing is that green hydrogen is… a sort of new development within the energy space. And because it didn’t exist before, women are not having to elbow their way in… It’s a space that’s opened up completely. Women are owning the green hydrogen space,” she said.

The Deputy Minister acknowledged that there is “always room for improvement”.

“But I can assure you, women are owning this energy space and they’re doing it with class… They are looking fabulous. They are owning the space and we’re looking at ways that we can support them to make sure that they continue,” Graham-Maré concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Uganda Strengthens Emergency Response Capacity Through African Volunteers Health Corps (AVoHC) – Strengthening and Utilizing Response Groups for Emergencies (SURGE) Training

Source: APO – Report:

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With support from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the World Health Organization (WHO) is collaborating with the Government of Uganda to train 78 multidisciplinary One Health responders under the Strengthening and Utilizing Response Groups for Emergencies (SURGE) flagship programme.

The AVoHC-SURGE training, a cornerstone of WHO’s Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) strategy, is designed and led by WHO to equip countries with skilled, coordinated teams capable of deploying rapidly during health emergencies. In Uganda, WHO has convened and facilitated a diverse group of participants from multiple sectors, including health, agriculture, internal affairs, animal and fisheries industries, and the Uganda Defence Forces, reflecting the One Health approach to managing threats at the human–animal–environment interface.

“This training equips Uganda with the human capacity to respond quickly and decisively when emergencies occur. I commend the Ministry of Health for its leadership and commitment to strengthening emergency readiness,” said Dr Kasonde Mwinga, WHO Representative to Uganda.

Through WHO’s technical guidance, the training immerses participants in intensive sessions covering outbreak investigation, risk assessment, coordination, Gender based violence and Prevention and response of sexual exploitation, abuse and Harassment and rapid deployment operations. Practical simulations and scenario-based exercises replicate the realities of emergency response, ensuring participants are ready for coordinated action in the field.

For many participants, the experience is transformative: “I am honoured to attend the AVoHC-SURGE training by WHO Uganda. I gained critical skills in rapid response, coordination, and outbreak investigation, which empowers me to protect lives and build stronger, safer communities,” shared Dr Andama Adinani, one of the participants from the district local government.

Others echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing how WHO’s training builds technical capacity and strengthens networks across ministries and disciplines; connections that are critical to a cohesive national response when emergencies strike.

The inclusion of responders from multiple ministries underscores the Government of Uganda’s commitment to a multisectoral approach, supported by WHO’s technical expertise. Emergencies such as Ebola, Marburg, cholera, and zoonotic diseases require coordination between human health, animal health, and environmental sectors. By strengthening this integrated response capacity, Uganda, through WHO’s SURGE programme is better prepared to contain outbreaks before they escalate.

“Preparedness is an investment in the future. Every skill gained here, every relationship built across ministries, will help us act faster, smarter, and more effectively to protect Ugandans,” Lubwama Benard, Deputy Incident Commander, Ministry of Health.

The AvoHC-SURGE initiative, supported by FCDO and implemented by WHO across Africa, has been rolled out in several countries. So far 27 out of the 30 countries have completed their trainings and the details of the trained teams have been uploaded in the responders database.

As health threats grow increasingly complex, WHO’s continued support to Uganda in strengthening its national response capacity offers a model for other countries in the region. With a trained cadre of 78 multidisciplinary responders ready for deployment, the country is poised to respond to public health emergencies with speed, precision, and confidence.

Designed for impact, this training represents a best preparedness and readiness practice model to improve capacity to manage emergencies, disasters and other climate related emergencies on the African content.

– on behalf of World Health Organization – Uganda.

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Call to protect the nation’s oceans

Source: Government of South Africa

As South Africa joins the international community to celebrate Marine Protectors Day, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has called on all South Africans to protect the nation’s oceans.

“Whether through reducing plastic waste, supporting sustainable seafood choices, or participating in coastal clean-up initiatives, every action counts. Together, we can ensure that our oceans remain vibrant and thriving for generations to come,” the Minister said on Friday.

This day serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to protect the nation’s oceans, which are vital to biodiversity, food security, and the livelihoods of coastal communities.

The Minister paid tribute individuals, communities and organisations dedicated to safeguarding South Africa’s rich marine ecosystems.

“South Africa’s oceans are a cornerstone of our natural heritage, supporting millions of lives and driving economic growth through sustainable fisheries, tourism, and conservation initiatives. On Marine Protectors Day, we celebrate the rangers, scientists, enforcement officers, and community members who work relentlessly to preserve our marine resources for future generations,” the Minister said.

Under his leadership, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has made significant strides in marine conservation. 

Recent achievements include a 36% increase in fishing allocations for small-scale fishers on appeal, robust anti-poaching operations to combat illegal abalone harvesting, and the development of draft management plans for the Benguela Muds and Cape Canyon Marine Protected Areas. 

These efforts underscore the department’s commitment to balancing environmental protection with socio-economic development.

“Our Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are sanctuaries for marine life, providing safe havens for species like the African Penguin and supporting the resilience of our coastal ecosystems,” George said.

The Minister reaffirmed his commitment to expanding and strengthening these protected areas, in line with South Africa’s obligations under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

The DFFE, in collaboration with partners such as the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) and the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), will continue to drive innovative policies and enforcement measures to combat marine pollution, overfishing, and environmental crime. –SAnews.gov.za

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O Presidente da República (PR) Lança Fundo de Desenvolvimento Económico Local

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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O Chefe de Estado, Daniel Chapo, lançou, no distrito de Vilanculo, província de Inhambane, o Fundo de Desenvolvimento Económico Local (FDEL), uma iniciativa que visa impulsionar as economias distritais através do financiamento de pequenos negócios liderados por jovens e mulheres.

Discursando na cerimónia de lançamento do FDEL, que juntou membros da comunidade local, administradores dos 154 distritos do país, governadores e secretários de Estado provinciais, entre outros. o Presidente da República disse que este é um fundo para transformar ideias em negócios, gerar empregos e dinamizar a produção local. Não é ajuda gratuita, é crédito a ser devolvido para beneficiar outros cidadãos.

O estadista sublinhou que o FDEL surge como resposta directa às necessidades locais e às limitações estruturais do crédito convencional, muitas vezes inacessível para jovens em zonas rurais para os sectores como agricultura, pescas, turismo, serralharia, hotelaria, carpintaria, comércio e serviços.

O Presidente da República foi categórico ao exigir isenção: “Os comités de selecção devem evitar favoritismos. Este não é um fundo para amigos ou compadres, é para quem tem projectos viáveis, estamos a dar oportunidade a quem tem ideias, mas não tem garantias reais para aceder ao crédito bancário”.

Para garantir eficácia, será lançada uma plataforma digital de candidatura e monitoria, que permitirá maior transparência e acompanhamento da execução dos projectos. O governante apelou à fiscalização popular: “A comunidade deve vigiar o fundo. Quem não cumprir com os prazos de reembolso estará a bloquear o sonho de outros”.

O Governo comprometeu-se a capacitar os comités de avaliação e os próprios candidatos antes da liberação dos primeiros financiamentos, prevista para o mês de Setembro, o Presidente Daniel Chapo destacou a dimensão estratégica da iniciativa. “Este fundo não é apenas uma acção de inclusão produtiva, é também uma forma de fazer governação moderna e participativa, onde o Estado chega ao cidadão com soluções concretas”, afirmou.

Os administradores distritais terão um papel activo na articulação entre o Governo central e os beneficiários locais, sendo responsabilizados pela aplicação correcta dos fundos e pela promoção de resultados mensuráveis, o FDEL é um teste de liderança local, disse Chefe do Estado.

Com este lançamento, o Governo espera consolidar uma nova dinâmica económica assente na valorização dos recursos locais, no empreendedorismo de base e na construção de comunidades mais autónomas e resilientes.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Portal do Governo de Moçambique.