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Franc Mouzabakani assume a direção do setor petrolífero a montante da República do Congo

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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Franc Mouzabakani Kiesse foi nomeado Diretor-Geral do Setor de Upstream Petrolífero da República do Congo. Nomeado por decreto presidencial a 18 de junho e oficialmente empossado a 9 de julho, Kiesse assume um dos cargos de liderança mais importantes do setor energético do país, numa altura em que o Congo se empenha em aumentar a produção de crude, ao mesmo tempo que expande o investimento em todo o seu setor de petróleo e gás.

Trabalhando em conjunto com o ministro dos Hidrocarbonetos, Stev Simplice Onanga, Kiesse desempenhará um papel central na concretização das ambições do governo no setor a montante. A sua nomeação alia a visão estratégica do Ministério a décadas de experiência técnica, comercial e institucional, reforçando a capacidade do governo para trabalhar em estreita colaboração com operadores, investidores e a SNPC, com vista a acelerar a concretização de projetos e a desbloquear novas oportunidades em todo o setor.

Kiesse delineou uma agenda estratégica clara, centrada na proteção dos interesses nacionais e na melhoria da competitividade do setor a montante congolês. As suas prioridades incluem o reforço da supervisão governamental das atividades de exploração e produção, o aperfeiçoamento do acompanhamento dos projetos e o reforço da auditoria aos custos de desenvolvimento petrolífero apresentados pelas operadoras. Comprometeu-se também a maximizar os rendimentos do Estado provenientes dos projetos a montante através de uma supervisão regulatória mais rigorosa. Kiesse enfatizou a promoção do conteúdo local, expandindo as oportunidades para empresas congolesas e profissionais qualificados ao longo de toda a cadeia de valor do petróleo e do gás. Identificou ainda o desenvolvimento contínuo da SNPC como uma prioridade, com o objetivo de construir uma empresa petrolífera nacional mais forte e competitiva.

Estas prioridades surgem num momento crucial para o setor de upstream do Congo, à medida que o país prossegue com um dos programas de expansão de upstream mais ambiciosos de África. O governo estabeleceu uma meta de produção de 500 000 barris por dia (bpd) para os próximos anos, apoiada por novas descobertas offshore, programas de reabilitação de instalações existentes, reformas legislativas e um aumento do investimento em infraestruturas de gás natural. Alcançar este objetivo exigirá uma colaboração estreita entre as instituições governamentais e os operadores internacionais, garantindo simultaneamente que os projetos sejam executados de forma eficiente e gerem o máximo valor para a economia congolesa.

Com um percurso profissional que lhe proporcionou experiência em todos os níveis do setor de exploração e produção do Congo, Kiesse está bem posicionado para apoiar estes esforços, tendo construído uma carreira que abrange engenharia, desenvolvimento de projetos, relações governamentais e estratégia comercial. Passou mais de uma década na TotalEnergies, progredindo de engenheiro de operações de campo a engenheiro-chefe de processos na sede da empresa em Paris, antes de regressar ao Congo para liderar estudos de processos, gerir projetos de desenvolvimento em águas profundas e supervisionar joint ventures e relações governamentais. Nestas funções, trabalhou em estreita colaboração com parceiros de renome, incluindo a SNPC, a Eni, a Chevron e a Woodside Energy, supervisionando contratos de partilha de produção, negociações de joint ventures e interação com as entidades reguladoras.

Posteriormente, Kiesse ingressou na Perenco Congo como Diretor de Joint Ventures e Relações Governamentais, onde geriu parcerias estratégicas e negociações com autoridades governamentais, antes de se tornar Diretor de Desenvolvimento de Negócios e Relações Institucionais na AMMAT Global Resources. Ao longo destas funções, adquiriu uma vasta experiência a trabalhar tanto com operadores internacionais como com instituições nacionais, o que lhe proporcionou uma compreensão abrangente das dinâmicas comerciais, técnicas e regulatórias que moldam a indústria petrolífera do Congo.

Engenheiro elétrico formado na École Nationale Supérieure Polytechnique, em Brazzaville, possui também um mestrado em Economia e Gestão pela Università di Corsica Pasquale Paoli e um MBA pela DGC Congo.

A sua nomeação surge num momento em que a atividade de investimento continua a acelerar em todo o país. A TotalEnergies está a avançar com uma campanha de perfuração no valor de 500 a 600 milhões de dólares na sequência da descoberta de Moho G, enquanto o desenvolvimento prossegue ao abrigo do acordo de 23 mil milhões de dólares relativo a Bango Kayo, Holmoni e Cayo. Operadores independentes, incluindo a Perenco, a Trident Energy e a PetroNor, continuam a expandir a produção através de novas infraestruturas e da otimização de instalações existentes, apoiando os objetivos de produção a longo prazo do governo.

Um passo importante no sentido de reforçar a governação do setor a montante, a Câmara Africana de Energia (AEC) acolhe com agrado esta nomeação como um marco estratégico fundamental para reforçar a posição do país como um dos principais destinos de investimento em petróleo e gás em África.

«Nós, na Câmara Africana de Energia, temos esperança de que a nomeação de Franc Mouzabakani Kiesse marque o início de uma parceria ainda mais estreita entre o governo e a indústria», afirma NJ Ayuk, presidente executivo da AEC. «O Congo não tem escassez de recursos nem de oportunidades de investimento — a prioridade agora é a execução. Com o ministro Onanga a definir a direção estratégica e líderes experientes como Kiesse a impulsionar a implementação, o país está bem posicionado para dar início à sua próxima fase de crescimento no setor a montante.»

A Câmara acredita que a combinação de conhecimentos técnicos, experiência no setor privado e relações governamentais de Kiesse irá reforçar a implementação da estratégia do Congo no setor a montante. Ao apoiar a agenda do ministro Onanga, promover o conteúdo local, fomentar uma cooperação mais estreita entre o governo e a indústria e manter um ambiente de investimento atrativo, espera-se que a sua liderança desempenhe um papel importante para tornar o Congo um destino ainda mais atrativo para o investimento no setor energético.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

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Franc Mouzabakani Takes the Helm of the Republic of Congo’s Upstream Petroleum Sector

Source: APO


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Franc Mouzabakani Kiesse has been appointed Director General for of the Upstream Petroleum Sector for the Republic of Congo. Appointed by presidential decree on June 18 and officially installed on July 9, Kiesse assumes one of the country’s most important energy leadership positions as Congo works toward increase crude production while expanding investment across its oil and gas sector.

Working alongside Minister of Hydrocarbons Stev Simplice Onanga, Kiesse will play a central role in translating the government’s upstream ambitions into execution. His appointment brings together the Ministry’s strategic vision with decades of technical, commercial and institutional experience, strengthening the government’s ability to work closely with operators, investors and the SNPC to accelerate project delivery and unlock new opportunities across the sector.

Kiesse has outlined clear strategic agenda centered on protecting national interests while improving the competitiveness of the Congolese upstream sector. His priorities include strengthening government oversight of exploration and production activities, tightening project monitoring and strengthening the auditing of petroleum development costs submitted by operators. He also pledged to maximize the state’s returns from upstream projects through stronger regulatory oversight. Kiesse emphasized promoting local content by expanding opportunities for Congolese companies and skilled professionals throughout the oil and gas value chain. He also identified the continued development of the SNPC as a priority, with the aim of building a stronger and more competitive national oil company.

These priorities come at a pivotal time for Congo’s upstream sector as the country pursues one of Africa’s most ambitious upstream expansion programs. The government has established a production target of 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) over the coming years, supported by new offshore discoveries, brownfield redevelopment programs, legislative reforms and increased investment in natural gas infrastructure. Achieving this objective will require close collaboration between government institutions and international operators while ensuring projects are delivered efficiently and generate maximum value for the Congolese economy.

With a professional journey that has provided experience across every level of Congo’s upstream sector, Kiesse is well positioned to support these efforts, having built a career that spans engineering, project development, government relations and commercial strategy. He spent more than a decade with TotalEnergies, progressing from Field Operations Engineer to Lead Process Engineer at the company’s Paris headquarters before returning to Congo to lead process studies, manage deepwater development projects and oversee joint ventures and government relations. In these roles, he worked closely with major partners including SNPC, Eni, Chevron and Woodside Energy while supervising production sharing contracts, joint venture negotiations and regulatory engagement.

Kiesse later joined Perenco Congo as a Director of Joint Ventures and Government Relations, where he managed strategic partnerships and negotiations with government authorities before becoming Director of Business development and Institutional Relations at AMMAT Global Resources. Across these positions, he developed extensive experience working with both international operators and national institutions, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the commercial, technical and regulatory dynamics shaping Congo’s petroleum industry.

An electrical engineer trained at the Ecole National Supérieure Polytechnique in Brazzaville, he also holds a Master’s degree in Economics and Management from the Università di Corsica Pasquale Paoli and an MBA From DGC Congo.

His appointment comes as investment activity continues to accelerate across the country. TotalEnergies is advancing a $500–$600 million drilling campaign following the Moho G discovery, while development progresses under the $23 billion Bango Kayo, Holmoni and Cayo agreement. Independent operators, including Perenco, Trident Energy and PetroNor, continue to expand production through new infrastructure and brownfield optimization, supporting the government’s long-term production objectives.

A major step toward strengthening upstream governance, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) welcomes this appointment as a core, strategic milestone in reinforcing the country’s position as one of Africa’s leading oil and gas investment destinations.

“We at the African Energy Chamber are hopeful that Franc Mouzabakani Kiesse’s appointment marks the beginning of an even closer partnership between government and industry,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC. “Congo has no shortage of resources or investment opportunities – the priority now is execution. With Minister Onanga setting the strategic direction and experience leaders like Kiesse driving implementation, the country is well-positioned to unlock its next phase of upstream growth.”

The Chamber believes Kiesse’s combination of technical expertise, private sector experience and government relations will strengthen the implementation of Congo’s upstream strategy. By supporting Minister Onanga’s agenda, advancing local content, fostering closer cooperation between government and industry, and maintaining an attractive investment environment, his leadership is expected to play an important role making Congo an even more attractive destination for energy investment.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Franc Mouzabakani prend les rênes du secteur pétrolier en amont de la République du Congo

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Franc Mouzabakani Kiesse a été nommé directeur général du secteur pétrolier en amont de la République du Congo. Nommé par décret présidentiel le 18 juin et officiellement investi le 9 juillet, M. Kiesse occupe l’un des postes les plus importants du secteur énergétique du pays, alors que le Congo s’efforce d’augmenter sa production de brut tout en développant les investissements dans l’ensemble de son secteur pétrolier et gazier.

Aux côtés du ministre des Hydrocarbures, Stev Simplice Onanga, M. Kiesse jouera un rôle central dans la concrétisation des ambitions du gouvernement en matière d’amont. Sa nomination allie la vision stratégique du ministère à des décennies d’expérience technique, commerciale et institutionnelle, renforçant ainsi la capacité du gouvernement à travailler en étroite collaboration avec les opérateurs, les investisseurs et la SNPC afin d’accélérer la mise en œuvre des projets et de débloquer de nouvelles opportunités dans l’ensemble du secteur.

M. Kiesse a défini un programme stratégique clair, axé sur la protection des intérêts nationaux tout en améliorant la compétitivité du secteur en amont congolais. Ses priorités comprennent le renforcement du contrôle gouvernemental sur les activités d’exploration et de production, le resserrement du suivi des projets et le renforcement de l’audit des coûts de développement pétrolier présentés par les opérateurs. Il s’est également engagé à maximiser les retombées pour l’État issues des projets en amont grâce à un contrôle réglementaire renforcé. M. Kiesse a mis l’accent sur la promotion du contenu local en élargissant les opportunités offertes aux entreprises congolaises et aux professionnels qualifiés tout au long de la chaîne de valeur du pétrole et du gaz. Il a également identifié le développement continu de la SNPC comme une priorité, dans le but de bâtir une compagnie pétrolière nationale plus forte et plus compétitive.

Ces priorités interviennent à un moment charnière pour le secteur en amont du Congo, alors que le pays poursuit l’un des programmes d’expansion en amont les plus ambitieux d’Afrique. Le gouvernement s’est fixé un objectif de production de 500 000 barils par jour (b/j) pour les années à venir, soutenu par de nouvelles découvertes offshore, des programmes de réaménagement de sites existants, des réformes législatives et un accroissement des investissements dans les infrastructures gazières. Atteindre cet objectif nécessitera une collaboration étroite entre les institutions gouvernementales et les opérateurs internationaux, tout en veillant à ce que les projets soient menés à bien de manière efficace et génèrent une valeur maximale pour l’économie congolaise.

Fort d’un parcours professionnel qui lui a permis d’acquérir de l’expérience à tous les niveaux du secteur amont congolais, M. Kiesse est parfaitement placé pour soutenir ces efforts, grâce à une carrière couvrant l’ingénierie, le développement de projets, les relations avec les pouvoirs publics et la stratégie commerciale. Il a passé plus d’une décennie chez TotalEnergies, où il a gravi les échelons, passant d’ingénieur d’exploitation de champ à ingénieur en chef des procédés au siège de la société à Paris, avant de revenir au Congo pour diriger des études de procédés, gérer des projets de développement en eaux profondes et superviser les coentreprises et les relations avec les pouvoirs publics. À ces postes, il a travaillé en étroite collaboration avec des partenaires majeurs, notamment la SNPC, Eni, Chevron et Woodside Energy, tout en supervisant les contrats de partage de production, les négociations de coentreprises et les relations avec les autorités réglementaires.

M. Kiesse a ensuite rejoint Perenco Congo en tant que directeur des coentreprises et des relations avec les pouvoirs publics, où il a géré les partenariats stratégiques et les négociations avec les autorités gouvernementales avant de devenir directeur du développement commercial et des relations institutionnelles chez AMMAT Global Resources. Au fil de ces différentes fonctions, il a acquis une vaste expérience de collaboration tant avec des opérateurs internationaux qu’avec des institutions nationales, ce qui lui a permis d’acquérir une compréhension approfondie des dynamiques commerciales, techniques et réglementaires qui façonnent l’industrie pétrolière congolaise.

Ingénieur électricien formé à l’École nationale supérieure polytechnique de Brazzaville, il est également titulaire d’un master en économie et gestion de l’Università di Corsica Pasquale Paoli et d’un MBA de la DGC Congo.

Sa nomination intervient alors que l’activité d’investissement continue de s’accélérer dans tout le pays. TotalEnergies mène actuellement une campagne de forage de 500 à 600 millions de dollars à la suite de la découverte de Moho G, tandis que le développement se poursuit dans le cadre de l’accord de 23 milliards de dollars portant sur Bango Kayo, Holmoni et Cayo. Des opérateurs indépendants, notamment Perenco, Trident Energy et PetroNor, continuent d’accroître leur production grâce à de nouvelles infrastructures et à l’optimisation des sites existants, soutenant ainsi les objectifs de production à long terme du gouvernement.

L’African Energy Chamber (AEC) salue cette nomination, qui constitue une avancée majeure vers le renforcement de la gouvernance en amont, et la considère comme une étape stratégique essentielle pour consolider la position du pays en tant que l’une des principales destinations d’investissement dans le secteur pétrolier et gazier en Afrique.

« À la Chambre africaine de l’énergie, nous espérons que la nomination de Franc Mouzabakani Kiesse marquera le début d’un partenariat encore plus étroit entre le gouvernement et le secteur privé », déclare NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de l’AEC. « Le Congo ne manque ni de ressources ni d’opportunités d’investissement – la priorité est désormais à la mise en œuvre. Avec le ministre Onanga qui définit l’orientation stratégique et des dirigeants expérimentés comme M. Kiesse qui pilotent la mise en œuvre, le pays est bien placé pour entamer sa prochaine phase de croissance en amont. »

La Chambre estime que la combinaison de l’expertise technique, de l’expérience du secteur privé et des relations avec les pouvoirs publics dont dispose M. Kiesse renforcera la mise en œuvre de la stratégie congolais en amont. En soutenant le programme du ministre Onanga, en favorisant le contenu local, en encourageant une coopération plus étroite entre le gouvernement et le secteur privé et en maintenant un environnement d’investissement attractif, son leadership devrait jouer un rôle important pour faire du Congo une destination encore plus attractive pour les investissements dans le secteur de l’énergie.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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Bernard Beya nommé Directeur général de Liquid Intelligent Technologies République démocratique du Congo (RDC)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Liquid Intelligent Technologies (https://Liquid.Tech), une filiale de Cassava Technologies, leader technologique mondial, a le plaisir d’annoncer la nomination de Bernard Beya au poste de Directeur général de ses opérations en République Démocratique du Congo (RDC), à compter du 1er avril 2026.

Sutha Siva, Vice-Président exécutif et Directeur des opérations du Groupe Cassava Technologies a déclaré : « La RDC représente l’une des opportunités de croissance les plus prometteuses de notre sous-région, et la nomination de Bernard intervient à un moment décisif de notre parcours. Sa connaissance approfondie du marché local, alliée à son engagement pour la satisfaction des clients et l’excellence opérationnelle, contribuera à accélérer la réalisation de nos ambitions : étendre les infrastructures numériques et soutenir une croissance économique plus inclusive à travers le pays ».

Fort de plus de 20 ans d’expérience à des postes de direction dans les télécommunications, dont une expertise avérée du marché congolais, Bernard était depuis septembre 2022, Directeur financier de Liquid RDC. À partir de novembre 2025 il a commencé à assurer les fonctions de Directeur général par intérim, supervisant l’orientation stratégique, opérationnelle et commerciale de l’entreprise. Son fort bilan en matière de résultats et la confiance qu’il inspire auprès des parties prenantes confirment sa capacité à diriger efficacement Liquid RDC.

Bernard Beya a déclaré : « C’est un honneur pour moi de conduire cette nouvelle phase de croissance de Liquid RDC. Notre priorité est de capitaliser sur les bases opérationnelles et financières solides que nous avons bâties afin d’offrir encore plus de valeur à nos clients et partenaires. En tant que filiale de Cassava Technologies, nous sommes en mesure d’élargir l’accès à une connectivité fiable, au Cloud, à la cybersécurité, à la colocation et aux solutions informatique que propose l’IA. Nous voulons jouer un rôle de premier plan dans l’accélération de la transformation numérique au service des entreprises, des institutions publiques et des communautés du pays »

Alors que la République Démocratique du Congo renforce son agenda de transformation numérique (https://apo-opa.co/450UEeK) grâce à des investissements majeurs dans les infrastructures, la connectivité et le développement des compétences, Liquid Intelligent Technologies se tient prête à accompagner ces ambitions nationales. L’objectif: favoriser une croissance économique inclusive et bâtir l’avenir numérique du pays.

Distribué par APO Group pour Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

À propos de Liquid Intelligent Technologies :
Liquid Intelligent Technologies est une filiale de Cassava Technologies (Cassava), un groupe technologique d’origine africaine présent dans plus de 40 marchés en Afrique, au Moyen-Orient et en Amérique latine. Liquid s’est imposé comme le principal fournisseur d’infrastructures numériques panafricaines, avec un réseau de fibre optique de 116 000 km et une couverture satellite garantissant un accès Internet haut débit partout sur le Continent. S’appuyant sur son réseau, Liquid propose également des solutions de Cloud et de cybersécurité à travers des partenariats stratégiques avec des acteurs mondiaux de premier plan. Liquid est un groupe de solutions technologiques complètes qui fournit des services numériques adaptés pour les grandes entreprises, les institutions publiques ainsi que les PME à travers l’Afrique. Pour plus d’informations, visiter : https://Liquid.Tech.

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Wanted suspects arrested during track and tracing raids

Source: Government of South Africa

Wanted suspects arrested during track and tracing raids

The South African Police (SAPS) has arrested 308 wanted suspects during track and tracing raids conducted by detectives as part of weekly planned Operation Shanela. 

“The police arrested 22 suspects wanted in connection with rape cases, 10 for sexual offences, seven suspects for murder cases, 11 for attempted murder and 67 for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm were apprehended and will appear in different courts soon,” the police said in a statement.

Over 1 015 suspects were arrested during high density deployments, as the multidisciplinary integrated forces carried out the following policing actions:

● High visibility patrols (5 350).

● Stop-and-search (13 227).

● Licensed liquor premises inspection (645).

● Second-hand dealers compliance inspection (147).

● Compliance inspection at scrapyards or recyclers (56).

● Spaza shops or informal business visits (76).

● Farm visits together with the Department of Home Affairs and Department of Labour (2 831).

“The joint team seized 703 grams of tik/chrystal meth and 59 mandrax tablets. The team further confiscated 950.68 litres of alcohol beverages, 108 packets of tobacco, and 305 kilograms of suspected stolen copper cables.

“Another weekly planned Operation Shanela will unfold in certain areas of concern and identified crime hotspot areas throughout Free State province,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Gauteng Health dept’s Mandela Month Surgical Marathon kicks off

Source: Government of South Africa

Gauteng Health dept’s Mandela Month Surgical Marathon kicks off

The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) will conduct more than 1000 surgeries and clinical procedure in July in honour of Mandela Month.

This will mark the fourth edition of the department’s Mandela Month Surgical Marathon.

“[The] initiative forms part of the department’s ongoing efforts to reduce surgical waiting lists, improve access to care and restore the dignity of patients awaiting procedures across Gauteng public hospitals.

“With a total pledge of 1078 surgeries and clinical procedures, the department aims to surpass the 806 procedures performed during the 2025 Mandela Month Surgical Marathon, demonstrating continued progress in strengthening surgical services and expanding access to timely care,” the GDoH said.

Some 19 hospitals, including academic, tertiary, regional and district hospitals, will participate, making it “one of the province’s largest coordinated surgical access interventions to date”.

“These hospitals will dedicate theatre time throughout July to reduce waiting lists and improve access to specialist surgical services.

“More than 20 surgical and clinical disciplines will participate in this year’s programme, including ophthalmology, orthopaedics, general surgery, urology, paediatric surgery, cardiothoracic, neurosurgery, ear, nose and throat surgery, obstetrics and gynaecology, breast surgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery and oncology services.

“The procedures planned for this year’s Surgical Marathon range from cataract surgeries, hip and knee replacements and hernia repairs to more specialised interventions such as cochlear implants, penile prosthetic implants, paediatric reconstructive surgery and cardiac procedures,” the department explained.

Civil society organisations such as Gift of the Givers, the Islamic Medical Association of South Africa, Operation Healing Hands and Envision Africa will support the programme with specialist teams, medical consumables and equipment.

“For many patients, surgery represents more than a medical procedure. It means restored sight, renewed mobility, relief from pain and an opportunity to return to work, school and family life after months or even years of waiting for treatment.

“The Mandela Month Surgical Marathon is more than a series of operations. It is a province-wide commitment to restore hope, reduce waiting times, strengthen the health system and honour the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela through meaningful action.

“Every procedure performed represents sight restored, mobility regained, pain relieved and dignity returned to patients and families across Gauteng,” the department said.

Earlier this month, Cabinet called on all South Africans to dedicate their time to help build a better country that works for all.

“South Africa will in July commemorate Mandela Month under the theme ‘It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity ‘. Cabinet calls on all South Africans to dedicate their time and efforts during Mandela Month and on Nelson Mandela International Day on 18 July 2026, to help build a South Africa that works for South Africans,” it said.

Nelson Mandela International Day was launched in recognition of Nelson Mandela’s birthday on 18 July 2009 via a unanimous decision of the United Nation’s General Assembly. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Mining Chambers to Highlight Africa’s Next Wave of Investment Opportunities at African Mining Week (AMW) 2026

Source: APO


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As African countries advance reforms to unlock new mineral discoveries and strengthen mining investment, chambers of mines are playing an increasingly important role in connecting governments, investors and industry. Through policy advocacy, regulatory engagement and investment promotion, these organizations are helping shape the continent’s next phase of mining development.

That growing role will be on display at African Mining Week (AMW) 2026, taking place in Cape Town from October 14–16, where chamber executives will highlight the policies, partnerships and investment opportunities driving growth across Africa’s mining sector.

Zimbabwe offers a prime example of this expanding role. The Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe has become an increasingly influential voice in addressing production constraints, including power shortages and foreign exchange challenges. Its recommendations align with recent government initiatives to expand coal-fired power generation, increase coal production and achieve 10% mining sector growth in 2026. At AMW 2026, CEO Isaac Kwesu will outline investment opportunities emerging as the country implements reforms to strengthen mining competitiveness.

In South Africa, the Minerals Council South Africa continues to advocate for improvements to rail, port and electricity infrastructure while supporting the implementation of the Mineral Resources Development Bill and measures to stimulate exploration. These priorities complement government initiatives such as the Junior Mining Exploration Fund and a broader strategy to mobilize R2 trillion in mining investment over the next five years. CEO Mzila Mthenjane will discuss efforts to revitalize exploration and unlock opportunities across the country’s platinum group metals, manganese and critical minerals sectors.

In Zambia, the Zambia Chamber of Mines has helped shape the Geological and Minerals Development Act of 2025, legislation designed to stimulate mineral exploration as the country works toward increasing annual copper production to three million tons by 2031. Zambia has already reached a key milestone in its nationwide geological mapping program, completing 55% of the survey, while the recent launch of the National Spatial Data Infrastructure Policy and Geoportal is improving investor access to geological data. At AMW 2026, CEO Sokwani Chilembo is expected to showcase investment opportunities as Zambia expands exploration and diversifies beyond copper.

As countries increasingly position mining as a driver of economic diversification, Fousseni Togola, President of the Mali Chamber of Mines, will present opportunities in the country’s gold and lithium sectors, highlighting how Mali’s 2023 Mining Code is supporting investment into emerging minerals.

In Uganda, Humphrey Asiimwe, CEO of the Uganda Chamber of Energy and Minerals, told AMW that the chamber will use the event to promote investment opportunities in gold, graphite and rare earths. The country’s mining sector forms a cornerstone of Uganda’s strategy to increase GDP from $59.3 billion to $500 billion by 2040.

Meanwhile, Amara Kamara, President of the Liberia Chamber of Mines, is expected to highlight reforms aimed at attracting new exploration investment, including plans to establish a national mining company as Liberia targets more than $3 billion in annual mining and energy revenues by 2029.

Regional collaboration will also feature prominently during AMW 2026. Thierry Naweji, Executive Chairman of the SA-DRC Chamber of Commerce, is expected to discuss opportunities to strengthen cooperation between South African and Congolese mining companies as both countries work to build more integrated regional mineral value chains.

With regulatory reforms gathering pace across the continent, AMW 2026 will highlight how chambers of mines are helping translate policy ambitions into investment opportunities, reinforcing their growing role in Africa’s mining development.

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

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Bernard Beya appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Liquid Intelligent Technologies Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

Source: APO

Liquid Intelligent Technologies (https://Liquid.Tech), a business of Cassava Technologies, a global technology leader, is pleased to announce the appointment of Bernard Beya as Chief Executive Officer of its operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), effective 1 April 2026.

“The DRC represents one of the most exciting growth opportunities in our region, and Bernard’s appointment comes at an important moment in our journey. His deep understanding of the local market, combined with his commitment to customer success and operational excellence, will help accelerate our ambitions to expand digital infrastructure and enable greater economic growth across the country,” said Sutha Siva, EVP: Group Chief Operating Officer at Cassava Technologies.

Bernard brings over 20 years of leadership experience in telecommunications, including deep expertise in the DRC market. He joined Liquid in September 2022 as Chief Financial Officer and was appointed Acting CEO in November 2025, overseeing the organisation’s strategic, operational and commercial direction. His proven track record of delivering results and building stakeholder trust highlights his capability to lead Liquid DRC effectively.

“I am honoured to lead Liquid DRC’s next phase of growth. Our priority is to build on the strong operational and financial foundation we have established to deliver greater value for our customers and partners. As a business of Cassava Technologies, we can expand access to reliable connectivity, cloud, cyber security, colocation and compute AI for our customers. We can play a meaningful role in accelerating digital transformation for the country’s enterprises, government, and communities,” said Bernard.

As the Democratic Republic of Congo advances its digital transformation agenda (https://apo-opa.co/450UEeK) through significant investments in digital infrastructure, connectivity, and skills development, Liquid Intelligent Technologies is well positioned to support these national ambitions, helping unlock inclusive economic growth and drive the country’s digital future.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

About Liquid Intelligent Technologies:
Liquid Intelligent Technologies is a business of Cassava Technologies (Cassava), a technology company of African heritage with operations in 40-plus markets across Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, where the Cassava group companies operate. Liquid has firmly established itself as the leading provider of pan-African digital infrastructure with a 116,000 km-long fibre broadband network and satellite connectivity that provides high-speed access to the Internet anywhere in Africa. Liquid is also leveraging its digital network to provide Cloud and Cyber Security solutions through strategic partnerships with leading global players. Liquid is a comprehensive technology solutions group that provides customised digital solutions to public and private sector enterprises and SMEs across the continent. For more information, visit https://Liquid.Tech.    

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Gabon : L’héritier de l’ombre et de la lumière (Tome 2), un roman de fantasy mystique de l’auteure Franco-Gabonaise Céline Flore Saint Clair MEYO

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Un roman de fantasy mystique où l’amour maternel devient l’arme la plus puissante face aux forces qui convoitent l’avenir du monde.

Après la disparition de Xandro, une jeune femme découvre qu’elle porte un enfant capable de communiquer avec elle et d’ouvrir des brèches entre les mondes. Traquée par des forces obscures et surveillée par des entités divines, elle comprend que son fils à naître est convoité parce qu’il représente une clé vers la lumière… ou la destruction. Aidée par un mystérieux Homme sans ombre, elle devra apprendre à maîtriser des pouvoirs qui bouleversent le temps, les rêves et la réalité. À mesure que le lien entre la mère et l’enfant se renforce, une guerre ancienne ressurgit, attirant démons, gardiennes célestes et créatures oubliées. Pour sauver son enfant, elle devra choisir entre la peur, le sacrifice et l’amour qui défie les ténèbres.

L’auteure, Céline Flore Saint-Clair MEYO a 40 ans, d’origine Afro-Antillaise (Franco-Gabonaise).

Elle est née en France et a vécu 17 ans au Gabon, pays d’origine de son père Joseph MEYO.

Durant cette période, il lui est souvent arrivé d’aller en vacances en France puis en Guadeloupe (pays de sa mère Sonia MEYO née URSULE).

C’est bercée par cette mixité exotique et poussée par sa mère qu’elle se découvre une passion pour la lecture et l’écriture de poèmes.

Après l’obtention d’un baccalauréat en Sciences économiques et sociales en 2002, c’est en France, à l’Université de Limoges, qu’elle réalise son cursus universitaire en Droit administratif.

Après de longues années dans le secteur commercial, elle rejoint le secteur social de la Protection de l’Enfance à l’image de sa mère.

En 2024, elle fait éditer son premier recueil de poèmes Effeuillements de mon âme, par les Éditions WebLim.

Commande chez l’autrice :
06 28 93 74 58 
celinemeyo@yahoo.fr

Ou sur Amazon : https://apo-opa.co/4vmnpgJ

BIBLIOGRAPHIE :

Effeuillements de mon âme : https://apo-opa.co/450T24G

Echos de l’âme et harmonie des contrastes : https://apo-opa.co/4pepaLr

L’héritier de l’ombre et de la lumière : https://apo-opa.co/3RB1Wmp

Rétrospection de l’âme : https://apo-opa.co/4w3ANYm

Distribué par APO Group pour Éditions WebLim.

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African Economic Conference Launches Continental Network of Chief Economists to Strengthen Continent’s Policy Leadership

Source: APO


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African policymakers, development institutions and leading economists on Sunday launched the African Chief Economists Network (ACE-Network), a continent-wide platform designed to strengthen evidence-based policymaking and provide coordinated African solutions to increasingly complex global economic challenges.

The launch, one of the principal outcomes of the 2026 African Economic Conference (AEC), comes as African countries face mounting geopolitical tensions, global trade fragmentation, climate shocks, rising debt pressures, and a rapidly evolving international financial and development architecture.

Hosted by the African Development Bank Group in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the three-day conference brought together ministers, central bank officials, chief economists, academics, development practitioners, private-sector leaders and researchers from across Africa and beyond.

The event, held under the theme “Strengthening Africa’s Geopolitical Agency and Trade Resilience in a Multipolar World,” concluded with more than 4,000 participants connected virtually over the three days, reflecting growing interest in Africa’s search for stronger, home-grown policy responses to a rapidly changing global economy.

Speaking on behalf of African Development Bank Group President Dr Sidi Ould Tah, Senior Vice-President Marie-Laure Akin-Olugbade described the launch of the ACE-Network as a landmark achievement that would strengthen Africa’s capacity to develop practical, evidence-based policy solutions.

She noted that the broad participation and engagement of stakeholders across diverse sectors and institutions demonstrate the timeliness, relevance and importance of this year’s theme for Africa’s future. She urged members of the new network to translate research into policies and actions that improve the lives of Africans.

“This is a big responsibility on your shoulders, and we expect to see clear results in the form of very effective decisions and, therefore, actions that really move the needle for the men and women of this beautiful continent of ours,” Akin-Olugbade stressed.

Responding to a changing global economy

The establishment of the ACE-Network reflects growing recognition that African countries need stronger coordination among their leading economic thinkers as policymakers navigate increasingly interconnected global crises.

The network aims to fill that gap by creating an informal, invitation-only community of chief economists and senior policy advisers to exchange evidence, coordinate research, identify emerging risks, and jointly develop policy recommendations for African governments.

Members will include chief economists from African development finance institutions and multilateral organisations, chief economic advisers to African presidents and prime ministers, deputy governors of central banks responsible for economic policy, heads of leading think tanks, deans of economics faculties, and senior private-sector economists.

Rather than establishing another formal institution, the network will operate as a collaborative platform, meeting annually alongside the African Economic Conference and holding quarterly virtual sessions and rapid-response meetings during major global or regional economic shocks.

Strengthening Africa’s knowledge sovereignty

Presenting the network’s strategic vision, African Development Bank Group Chief Economist and Vice-President for Economic Governance and Knowledge Management, Prof Kevin Urama, said Africa must strengthen its knowledge systems if it is to shape the emerging global financial and economic order.

He argued that Africa has only a limited window to influence reforms to the international financial architecture and that stronger coordination among African economists would help governments make better-informed decisions amid unprecedented uncertainty.

Among the network’s priorities are strengthening Africa’s knowledge sovereignty, increasing investment in research and innovation, improving policy coordination, reducing duplication across institutions, enhancing early-warning systems for emerging risks, and ensuring that economic analysis better reflects African realities.

Urama also called for greater investment in what he described as “soft infrastructure”—research, data systems and knowledge institutions—to complement the continent’s growing investment in transport, energy and other physical infrastructure.

Bridging research and policymaking

UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa Chief Economist Dr Raymond Gilpin described the network as “a unified powerhouse of African intellectuals” capable of narrowing the gap between economic research and public policy.

He said the initiative would help African countries mobilise domestic capital, strengthen implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), develop innovative responses to climate and fiscal challenges, and convert Africa’s demographic growth into a driver of long-term prosperity.

“The Africa Chief Economists Network will be an engine room that designs creative solutions necessary for Africa to attain the Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063,” Gilpin said.

United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) Deputy Executive Secretary and Chief Economist Dr Hanan Morsy said increasingly interconnected crises demanded stronger collective economic intelligence across Africa.

“No country, regardless of its size or resources, can effectively navigate this environment alone,” she said, adding that the network’s success would ultimately be measured by whether it improves policymaking, strengthens resilience and contributes to faster, more inclusive growth across the continent.

Representing the OECD, Ida McDonnell, head of the Development Research Unit, noted that current global challenges required integrated approaches to trade, debt, climate finance, industrial policy and investment, rather than treating each issue separately.

She added that the new ACE-Network would help reduce duplication while strengthening African contributions to global policy debates.

Over three days in the Ivorian capital, delegates examined how Africa can strengthen its geopolitical influence while improving trade resilience, mobilising domestic resources, expanding regional value chains, accelerating industrialisation and attracting greater investment in an increasingly multipolar world.

Sessions also explored the future of development finance, public investment efficiency, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, climate resilience, regional integration and institutional reforms needed to position Africa as a stronger actor in global economic governance.

Participants agreed that Africa possesses major comparative advantages—including the world’s youngest population, abundant renewable energy resources, critical minerals, expanding digital markets and the world’s largest free trade area under the AfCFTA—but that stronger institutions, better policy coordination and higher-quality economic analysis will be essential to convert those assets into sustained growth.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media Contact:
African Development Bank Group
Kpodo, Wilberforce Kwasi, media@afdb.org

United Nations Development Programme
Eve Sabbagh, eve.sabbagh@undp.org

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
Eleanor Carey, Eleanor.CAREY@oecd.org