MIL-OSI Publisher – Page 908 – MIL Africa Engine

June 11, 2025

African Development Bank and International Aid Transparency Initiative (IATI) hold workshop for Francophone West Africa governments to strengthen development effectiveness

The African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) and the International Aid Transparency Initiative (IATI) concluded a workshop on Thursday aimed at enhancing the use of development finance data to support national planning, coordination, and accountability. The workshop was attended by government representatives from Francophone West Africa.

The three-day workshop, held from 3 to 5 June, took place at the headquarters of the African Development Bank Group in Abidjan, with participants from Côte d’Ivoire, Benin, Burkina Faso, Niger, Senegal, and Togo.

During the event, government representatives explored how IATI data can help track external resources, align aid with national priorities, and strengthen decision-making. A key focus for the workshop participants was strengthening dialogue with development partners to improve the information on billions of dollars of development investments flowing into Francophone West Africa. Participants also received practical training on the use of IATI data and tools.

Development partner representatives from Agence Française de Développement, Islamic Development Bank, West African Development Bank (BOAD), and the World Bank attended the workshop. These partners, including the African Development Bank, through IATI, have published detailed information on their development finance, projects and results. Since 2013, the Bank has published over $200 billion in project and results data to the IATI Standard.

Armand Nzeyimana, Director of the Development Impact and Results Department at the African Development Bank, emphasised the Bank’s leadership on transparency in his opening remarks: “Since joining IATI in 2011, the Bank has made a firm commitment to making transparency a cornerstone of its work.”

The African Development Bank has shared public data about its investments through the creation of its Data Portal and MapAfrica platform, which visualises over 5,700 projects across 17,600 locations, aligned with the Bank’s High 5 strategic priorities, Nzeyimana said.

This approach resulted in the African Development Bank’s sovereign portfolio being recognised as the most transparent out of 50 global development institutions in 2022 and 2024, according to Publish What You Fund’s (https://apo-opa.co/45NBjzm) Aid Transparency Index, Nzeyimana added.

For Charlie Martial Ngounou, Vice-Chair of IATI’s Governing Board, the workshop provided an important opportunity for governments and partners in Francophone West Africa to work towards “greater transparency, coordination, and effectiveness in development cooperation.” He underlined the importance of ensuring that IATI serves country-level realities, noting: “The value of a standard lies in its adoption, its adaptation, and its relevance to country contexts. The real impact of IATI is found in your ministries, your dashboards, your planning and coordination processes.”

Representing the Government of Côte d’Ivoire, Dr. Nahoua Yeo, Directeur de Cabinet at the Ministry of Economy, Planning and Development, highlighted the importance of accessible, high-quality data for government leadership:

“I commend the IATI initiative for its leading role in standardizing, collecting, and disseminating data on development cooperation. Thanks to this standard, countries like ours can access strategic information, enhance budgetary transparency, and improve the quality of dialogue with partners. I also commend the AfDB for its continued commitment to aid effectiveness and support to member states.”

The workshop concluded with participants agreeing on a regional roadmap to enhance the use of IATI data at the country level in francophone west Africa. Participants also looked ahead to 2030 and input their vision for what IATI’s next strategic plan should focus on to meet the information needs of francophone African countries.

Both institutions look forward to continuing their partnership with countries to advance transparency, increase country ownership, and improve the effectiveness of development cooperation.

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

Contacts:
African Development Bank:
Amba Mpoke-Bigg
Communication and External Relations Department
email: media@afdb.org

IATI:
Rohini Simbodyal
IATI Advocacy and Communications Specialist Sustainable Finance Hub
email: rohini.simbodyal@undp.org

About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 44 African countries with an external office in Japan, the AfDB contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states.

For more information: www.AfDB.org

About the International Aid Transparency Initiative:
IATI is a global initiative to improve the transparency of development and humanitarian resources and their results to address poverty and crises. See https://apo-opa.co/45kuqFI for more information. To date over 1,700 organisations have published data on nearly 1 million development and humanitarian projects, providing visibility on USD 3.7 trillion in spending.

For more information: https://IATIStandard.org

June 11, 2025

Uganda’s tax system is a drain on small businesses: how to set them free

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Adrienne Lees, Researcher, Institute of Development Studies

Uganda is one of the countries most exposed to recent cuts in international aid, particularly with the dissolution of the US Agency for International Development (USAID). In 2023, about 5% of gross national income – a measure of a country’s total income, including income from foreign sources – was received in aid.

The cuts have given new impetus to the drive to increase taxes raised from domestic businesses.

Less than half (45%) of the Ugandan budget is financed through domestic revenue. The remainder is funded largely through debt and budget support (grants) from bilateral and multilateral donors. Corporate income tax makes up around 8% of total domestic revenue. Firms also collect employee income tax (pay-as-you-earn), value added tax, excise duties and fuel duties.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) contribute a small share of overall corporate income tax collection. But they make up over 90% of the private sector. The economy is heavily reliant on these firms for employment and growth.

These businesses struggle to navigate an increasingly complex tax system.

The complexity of Uganda’s tax system makes for a time-consuming tax filing process, compounded by low taxpayer knowledge and high levels of distrust in the Uganda Revenue Authority. The time, money and effort incurred by taxpayers to meet their tax obligations adds to their total tax burden.

These compliance costs also have real economic consequences. Firms might miss out on tax benefits or artificially constrain business growth to avoid greater reporting requirements. Since smaller firms are more constrained in their ability to document revenues, accurately calculate tax liabilities and file returns, they might even pay more tax than necessary.

At the margin, compliance costs affect the economic choices people make: the fear of high compliance costs might induce a potential entrepreneur to take a salaried job instead of starting a new business.

Relieving this burden could unlock greater productivity and growth, and encourage innovation and investment.

For my PhD in economics I collaborated with the Uganda Revenue Authority to generate detailed measures of tax compliance costs, using data from a survey of nearly 2,000 taxpaying SMEs. My research finds that the burden of compliance is significant, even for firms with very little tax revenue to contribute.

Solutions should focus on making compliance easier and ensuring that tax thresholds are set appropriately to exclude unproductive small firms.

The burden

The median firm faces total annual compliance costs of about US$800, equivalent to just under 2% of turnover. These costs are also highly regressive: smaller firms face costs exceeding 20% of turnover, versus less than 1% for the largest firms.

A more troubling result is that many firms, and particularly smaller ones, spend more on completing their tax returns than they pay in actual income tax.

Much of this burden stems from labour time. Employees and firm owners dedicate over 30 hours a month on compliance-related activities, primarily compiling tax documentation and preparing returns. For firm owners personally involved in tax compliance, this responsibility consumes around 20% of their working hours, on average.

Somewhat surprisingly, the amount of time spent on tax compliance does not increase significantly with firm size.

To compensate for limited tax knowledge, many firms use the services of a tax agent. These include external accountants, consultants, or other tax specialists who assist with tax compliance. My research finds that the use of agents is common across all taxpayer categories and is primarily driven by a desire to ensure proper compliance, rather than to minimise tax liabilities.

Although these agents do not necessarily reduce compliance costs, since firms spend an average of US$54 per month on agents’ fees, related research shows that they have a broadly positive impact on the quality of tax returns submitted.

What can be done

The Ugandan parliament recently voted on the 2025 tax amendment bills, with measures aiming to bolster revenue collection and simplify compliance. For instance, policymakers propose to use the national identity document as a taxpayer identification number, rather than requiring separate tax registration.

But policymakers should consider bolder actions.

Firstly, the administrative thresholds for corporate income tax and presumptive tax (a simplified tax on business income for the smallest firms) have not been adjusted for over a decade. In a high inflation environment, this means that the tax system is capturing many firms with very little profit, and no tax to pay. Yet, these firms still bear compliance costs, and the revenue service incurs administrative costs registering and monitoring unproductive taxpayers.

Roughly 30% to 35% of firms filing returns each year file a nil return, meaning that they report zero on all significant fields of the tax return. Even these firms report compliance costs of, on average, around US$500 per year.

Rather than chasing the “little guy”, bigger revenue gains are likely to come from focusing on the largest businesses. For instance, research shows that tax incentives and exemptions cost Uganda over US$40 million in lost revenue per year.

Secondly, the Ugandan corporate income tax return is particularly long, complex, and more suited to the business structure of very large firms, rather than the SMEs making up most of the Ugandan economy. In addition to changing the thresholds, simplifying the return would be beneficial.

Filing processes could also be eased through automated pre-filling, for instance by using information from a firm’s monthly VAT returns to pre-populate parts of the corporate income tax return. The rollout of the Uganda Revenue Authority’s electronic invoicing system for VAT is a promising step in this direction, although it has been met with resistance by taxpayers.

– Uganda’s tax system is a drain on small businesses: how to set them free
– https://theconversation.com/ugandas-tax-system-is-a-drain-on-small-businesses-how-to-set-them-free-258120

June 11, 2025

Azana Electric et la Banque africaine de développement s’unissent pour impulser l’avenir énergétique du Burundi grâce à un don de 600 000 dollars à Weza Power

Lors du lancement du Pacte national pour l’énergie du Burundi dans le cadre de la consultation du secteur privé pour « Mission 300 » (M300) à Londres, Anzana Electric Group et la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org) ont annoncé un don de 600 000 dollars du Fonds pour l’énergie durable en Afrique (SEFA) pour soutenir Weza Power, une entreprise privée de services publics. Ce don effectué dans le cadre d’un partenariat public-privé (PPP) vise à étendre rapidement l’électrification du pays et de raccorder neuf millions de personnes dans ce pays des Grands Lacs.

Le don s’inscrit dans le cadre du programme régional d’assistance technique récemment approuvé par les instances décisionnelles du SEFA en faveur des PPP et relatif au transport et à la distribution de l’électricité. Le programme est conçu pour permettre au secteur privé de participer au développement et au financement de projets de lignes de transport et d’extension du réseau, afin d’accroître l’intégration des énergies renouvelables. Pour le Burundi, il permettra d’accélérer les activités de développement de Weza Power et de financer des axes de travail environnementaux et sociaux clés au moment où l’entreprise se prépare à devenir pleinement opérationnelle.

« Weza Power représente un nouveau modèle audacieux pour accélérer l’accès à l’électricité pour tous les Burundais, a déclaré le ministre burundais de l’Hydraulique, de l’Énergie et des Mines, Ibrahim Uwizeye. Nous sommes fiers de nous associer au secteur privé pour apporter des solutions innovantes à nos défis énergétiques et étendre l’accès à l’électricité à des millions de nos citoyens. »

Weza Power est la première société nationale de distribution d’électricité de ce type à opérer au Burundi. Détenue et exploitée par Anzana Electricity, avec le soutien de British International Investment et Gridworks, Weza Power est la première société nationale privée de distribution d’électricité en Afrique subsaharienne depuis plus d’une décennie.

Avec ce nouvel engagement, la Banque africaine de développement devient le plus récent partenaire de « M300 » à apporter un soutien direct à Weza Power, rejoignant ainsi la Société financière internationale (SFI) et la Banque mondiale. La Banque africaine de développement explore activement d’autres pistes pour assurer la réussite à long terme de ce modèle innovant de PPP par le biais de ses guichets de financement des secteurs public et privé.

« Notre objectif est de permettre à chaque Burundais de profiter pleinement des opportunités offertes par l’électricité. Ce soutien de la Banque africaine de développement et du SEFA contribuera à accélérer le développement du projet et à concrétiser les ambitions énergétiques du Burundi », a déclaré Brian Kelly, PDG d’Anzana Electric Group, la société mère de Weza Power. « Ce don représente une nouvelle avancée majeure pour notre équipe et les nombreuses communautés à travers le Burundi qui bénéficieront d’une électricité fiable et abordable », a-t-il ajouté.

« Ce soutien à Weza Power s’inscrit dans notre engagement à déployer à grande échelle des modèles commerciaux innovants qui peuvent nous aider à atteindre l’accès universel », a déclaré Daniel Schroth, directeur des énergies renouvelables et de l’efficacité énergétique à la Banque africaine de développement. « En tant que leader de la « Mission 300 », nous sommes fiers de soutenir le pacte « Mission 300 » du Burundi et de catalyser les capitaux privés grâce à des partenariats public-privé ambitieux comme Weza », a-t-il souligné.

Cette annonce intervient après que le Burundi a dévoilé son Pacte national pour l’énergie lors de la Consultation du secteur privé sur la « Mission 300 », organisée par le Groupe de la Banque mondiale et l’Agence multilatérale de garantie des investissements (MIGA). Le Pacte définit les réformes clés et les priorités d’investissement pour parvenir à l’accès universel à l’énergie et constitue la pierre angulaire de l’initiative « Mission 300 », un programme conjoint de la Banque mondiale et de la Banque africaine de développement visant à fournir l’électricité à 300 millions de personnes en Afrique d’ici 2030.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contacts média :
Pour Azana Electric :
Thom Wallace
thom.wallance@azana.com

Pour la Banque africaine de développement :
Frederica Lourenco
f.lourenco@afdb.org

À propos de Weza Power :
Weza Power est une société privée de distribution d’électricité visant à accélérer l’accès universel à l’énergie au Burundi. Créée et détenue par Anzana Electric Group, Weza Power est conçue comme un partenariat public-privé à l’échelle nationale. Elle s’appuie sur des capitaux commerciaux, des financements liés au climat et concessionnels, ainsi que sur le soutien technique de donateurs multilatéraux et bilatéraux. La société vise à raccorder 9 millions de personnes dans les zones périurbaines et rurales d’ici 2030, ce qui en fait l’un des projets de distribution les plus ambitieux d’Afrique subsaharienne. Gridworks Development Partners, une plateforme d’investissement détenue par British International Investment qui se concentre sur les secteurs du transport et de la distribution en Afrique, est l’un des investisseurs d’Anzana Electric Group.

À propos de la Banque africaine de développement :
La Banque africaine de développement est la première institution multilatérale de financement du développement en Afrique. Elle soutient le progrès économique et social sur tout le continent. Le Burundi est membre du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement et l’un des pays cibles de l’initiative « Mission 300 », développée par le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement et la Banque mondiale. Le soutien de la Banque africaine de développement comprend un cofinancement stratégique et une assistance technique afin de mobiliser des capitaux publics et privés pour l’accès à l’énergie, le développement des infrastructures et une croissance inclusive.

À propos du Fonds pour l’énergie durable en Afrique :
Le Fonds pour l’énergie durable en Afrique (SEFA) est un fonds spécial multidonateurs qui fournit des financements catalytiques pour débloquer les investissements du secteur privé dans les énergies renouvelables et l’efficacité énergétique. Il propose une assistance technique et des instruments de financement concessionnels pour lever les obstacles au marché, constituer un portefeuille de projets plus solide et améliorer le profil risque-rendement des investissements individuels. L’objectif principal du Fonds est de contribuer à l’accès universel à des services énergétiques abordables, fiables, durables et modernes pour tous en Afrique, conformément au New Deal pour l’énergie pour l’Afrique et à la « M300 ».

À propos du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement :
Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement est la principale institution de financement du développement en Afrique. Il comprend trois entités distinctes : la Banque africaine de développement (BAD), le Fonds africain de développement (FAD) et le Fonds spécial du Nigeria (FSN). Représentée dans 41 pays africains, avec un bureau extérieur au Japon, la Banque contribue au développement économique et au progrès social de ses 54 États membres régionaux. Pour plus d’informations : www.AfDB.org

Media files

June 11, 2025

Anzana Electric e Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento impulsionam o futuro energético do Burundi com uma subvenção de 600 mil dólares à Weza Power

O Grupo Anzana Electric e o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (www.AfDB.org) acordaram uma subvenção para o desenvolvimento de projectos no valor de 600 mil dólares do Fundo de Energia Sustentável para África (SEFA). O anúncio foi feito no lançamento do Compacto Nacional para a Energia do Burundi, durante a Consulta do Setor Privado da Missão 300 (M300), em Londres.

A subvenção apoiará a Weza Power, uma empresa privada apoiada por uma parceria público-privada (PPP), com o objetivo de expandir rapidamente a eletrificação e ligar nove milhões de pessoas em todo o Burundi.

A subvenção faz parte do programa de assistência técnica regional recentemente aprovado pelo SEFA para PPP nos setores do transporte e da distribuição, implementadas pelo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento. O programa foi concebido para permitir a participação do setor privado no desenvolvimento e financiamento de linhas de transporte e projetos de expansão da rede, com o objetivo de aumentar a integração das energias renováveis. Especificamente, irá acelerar as atividades de desenvolvimento da Weza Power e financiar as principais vertentes ambientais e sociais, à medida que se prepara para o lançamento operacional total.

“A Weza Power representa um novo modelo arrojado para acelerar o acesso à eletricidade para todos os habitantes do Burundi”, afirmou o Ministro da Hidráulica, Energia e Minas do país, Ibrahim Uwizeye. “Estamos orgulhosos da parceria com o setor privado para trazer soluções inovadoras para os nossos desafios energéticos e expandir o acesso à eletricidade a milhões dos nossos cidadãos”, acrescentou.

A Weza Power é a primeira empresa de distribuição de eletricidade a nível nacional do seu género a operar no Burundi. Propriedade privada e operada pela Anzana Electricity, com o apoio da British International Investment e da Gridworks, a Weza Power representa a primeira empresa nacional de distribuição de eletricidade operada pelo setor privado na África subsaariana em mais de uma década.

Com o seu mais recente compromisso, o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento torna-se o mais recente parceiro da M300 a prestar apoio direto à Weza Power, juntando-se à Sociedade Financeira Internacional (SFI) e ao Banco Mundial. O Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento está a explorar ativamente outras vias para garantir o sucesso a longo prazo deste modelo inovador de PPP através das suas janelas de financiamento dos setores público e privado.

“O nosso objetivo é desbloquear a oportunidade que a energia proporciona a todos os burundenses. Este apoio do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento e do SEFA ajudará a acelerar o desenvolvimento de projetos e a concretizar as ambições energéticas do Burundi”, afirmou Brian Kelly, CEO do Anzana Electric Group, a empresa-mãe da Weza Power. “Esta subvenção representa mais um grande passo em frente para a nossa equipa e para as muitas comunidades do Burundi que irão beneficiar de energia fiável e acessível”, apontou ainda.

“Este apoio à Weza Power alinha-se com o nosso compromisso de dar escala a modelos de negócio inovadores que nos podem ajudar a alcançar o acesso universal”, disse Daniel Schroth, Diretor de Energias Renováveis e Eficiência Energética do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento. “Como líder da Missão 300, estamos orgulhosos de apoiar o compacto da Missão 300 do Burundi e catalisar o capital privado através de parcerias público-privadas ousadas como a Weza”, afirmou.

O anúncio surge no momento em que o Burundi revelou o seu Compacto Nacional para a Energia na Consulta do Setor Privado M300, organizada pelo Grupo Banco Mundial e pela Agência Multilateral de Garantia do Investimento (MIGA). O Compacto delineia as principais reformas e prioridades de investimento para alcançar o acesso universal à energia e serve como pedra angular da iniciativa Missão 300 – um esforço conjunto do Banco Mundial e do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento para ligar 300 milhões de pessoas em África até 2030.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contactos para os media:
Azana Electric:
Thom Wallace
thom.wallance@anzana.com

Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento:
Frederica Lourenço
f.lourenco@afdb.org

Sobre a Weza Power:
A Weza Power é uma empresa privada de distribuição de eletricidade criada para acelerar o acesso universal à energia no Burundi. Criada e detida pelo Anzana Electric Group, a Weza Power foi concebida como uma Parceria Público-Privada à escala nacional. É apoiada por capital comercial, financiamento climático e concessional e apoio técnico de doadores multilaterais e bilaterais. A empresa pretende ligar 9 milhões de pessoas em zonas periurbanas e rurais até 2030, o que a torna um dos projetos de distribuição mais ambiciosos da África subsaariana. O Anzana Electric Group é uma empresa investida pela Gridworks Development Partners, uma plataforma de investimento detida pela British International Investment que se concentra nos setores de transmissão e distribuição em África.

Sobre o Fundo de Energia Sustentável para África:
O SEFA é um Fundo Especial de vários doadores que fornece financiamento catalítico para desbloquear investimentos do setor privado em energias renováveis e eficiência energética. O SEFA oferece assistência técnica e instrumentos de financiamento concessional para eliminar as barreiras do mercado, criar uma reserva mais robusta de projetos e melhorar o perfil de risco-retorno dos investimentos individuais. O objetivo global do Fundo é contribuir para o acesso universal a serviços de energia acessíveis, fiáveis, sustentáveis e modernos para todos em África, em conformidade com o Novo Acordo sobre Energia para África e o M300.

Sobre o Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento:
O Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento é a principal instituição financeira de desenvolvimento em África. Inclui três entidades distintas: o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (AfDB), o Fundo Africano de Desenvolvimento (ADF) e o Fundo Fiduciário da Nigéria (NTF). Presente no terreno em 41 países africanos, com uma representação externa no Japão, o Banco contribui para o desenvolvimento económico e o progresso social dos seus 54 Estados-membros. Mais informações em: www.AfDB.org

Media files

Baixar logotipo

June 11, 2025

Bank One Extends a Facility to the ESATF Trade Fund to Support Regional Trade Finance in Africa

Bank One (www.BankOne.mu) has extended a USD 5 million facility to ESATF, an African trade fund managed by the ESATAL fund management company, a TDB Group subsidiary, to support trade finance on the continent.

The facility is designed to support the Fund’s growing loan book. The financing will be deployed to meet the rising demand for trade finance across Africa, a key growth market for both institutions.

TDB Group and Bank One share a long-standing relationship which was first established with Bank One’s participation in the syndicated loans of TDB Group’s Trade and Development Banking operations.

This facility is a new area of collaboration between both institutions, and Bank One’s first direct lending engagement with ESATF. It reflects the institution’s confidence in the Fund as a strong and well-managed trade finance vehicle, with a diversified and de-risked loan portfolio.

ESATAL Executive Director Umulinga Karangwa said “We are pleased to strengthen our partnership with Bank One as we extend our trade finance reach across African markets. This latest collaboration builds on the existing relationship with TDB Group and reflects a shared commitment to unlocking capital for businesses that drive regional trade and economic development. As ESATF continues to scale-up, such partnerships are key to deepening our impact and expanding access to much-needed financing across the continent.”

Bank One CEO, Sunil Ramgobin adds: “Over the past few years, Bank One has joined TDB on two syndicated debt raises, demonstrating our shared mission to promote sustainable, inclusive growth across Africa. This third collaboration—a USD 5 million trade finance facility to ESATF—reinforces our joint ambition to deliver measurable social, environmental and developmental impact. By supporting ESATF’s growing loan book, we respond to rising demand for trade finance across African markets. We stand alongside TDB Group in building a stronger, more resilient Africa and look forward to achieving many more milestones together as we finance progress that truly matters.”

With USD 300 million in net assets under management as of June 2025, and over 60 investors in its diverse stable, the ESATF trade fund serves as a strong platform for institutional investors looking to support Africa’s growing trade finance sector, and its impact across several sectors, including for SMEs, women and smallholder farmers.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Bank One Limited.

Media contacts:
Trade and Development Bank Group:
Anne-Marie Iskandar
Senior Communications Officer
Corporate Affairs and Investor Relations
Anne-Marie.Iskandar@tdbgroup.org

Zethical PR Agency:
Kaajal Gungadeen
Head of PR & Communications
communication@zethical.com

Bank One:
Virginie Couronne
Senior Communication & Content Specialist
virginie.appapoulay@bankone.mu

About TDB Group:
Established in 1985, the Trade and Development Bank Group (TDB Group) is an African regional multilateral development bank, with a mandate to finance and foster trade, regional economic integration and sustainable development in Africa. TDB Group counts several subsidiaries and strategic business units including Trade and Development Banking, TDB Asset Management (TAM), the Trade and Development Fund (TDF), TDB Captive Insurance Company (TCI), the ESATAL fund management company and TDB Academy.

About ESATAL fund management company:
The ESATAL fund management company, a wholly owned TDB Group subsidiary, manages trade finance funds aligned with TDB Group’s commitment to promoting trade-led economic and social development. One of its key initiatives is the ESATF trade fund, a collective investment scheme financing shortto medium-term trade transactions, particularly those involving small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). ESATAL and ESATF are part of TDB Group’s asset management activities which are focused on the design, origination, and growth of stand-alone investment vehicles for a wide range of investors and development partners. Domiciled in Mauritius, ESATAL and ESATF are regulated by the Financial Services Commission as collective investment scheme (CIS) fund manager and CIS expert fund, respectively.

About Bank One:
Bank One is a joint venture between CIEL Finance Limited in Mauritius and Kenya-based I&M Group PLC. Bank One provides a wide range of banking products and services to its clients through a geographic footprint spread across the island of Mauritius, comprising 7 branches and a well-distributed ATM network. As the financial landscape in sub-Saharan Africa continues to evolve, Bank One is determined to play an active role in supporting individuals, businesses and communities through continuous innovation and value addition. Bank One has deep development finance institution relationships and long-term funding lines in place with the German Investment Corporation (DEG), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the French Development Agency (Proparco). Bank One has been rated ‘BB-‘ with a Stable Outlook by Fitch Ratings.

Media files

Download logo

June 11, 2025

Anzana Electric and African Development Bank Power Up Burundi’s Energy Future with $600,000 Grant to Weza Power

At the launch of Burundi’s National Energy Compact during the Mission 300 (M300) Private Sector Consultation in London, Anzana Electric Group and the African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) announced a $600,000 project development grant from the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA). The grant will support Weza Power, a public-private partnership (PPP)-backed private utility aiming to rapidly expand electrification and connect nine million people across Burundi.

The grant is part of SEFA’s recently approved regional technical assistance program for PPPs in transmission and distribution, implemented by the African Development Bank. The program is designed to enable private sector participation in developing and financing transmission lines and grid expansion projects, with the goal of increasing renewable energy integration. Specifically, it will accelerate Weza Power’s development activities and fund key environmental and social workstreams as it prepares for full operational launch.

“Weza Power represents a bold new model for accelerating access to electricity for all Burundians,” said Burundi’s Minister of Hydraulics, Energy and Mines, Ibrahim Uwizeye. “We are proud to partner with the private sector to bring innovative solutions to our energy challenges and expand electricity access to millions of our citizens.”

Weza Power is the first national-level electricity distribution company of its kind operating across Burundi. Privately owned and operated by Anzana Electricity, with support from British International Investment and Gridworks, Weza Power represents the first privately operated national electricity distribution company in sub-Saharan Africa in over a decade.

With its latest commitment, the African Development Bank becomes the newest M300 partner providing direct support to Weza Power, joining the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the World Bank. The African Development Bank is actively exploring additional avenues to ensure the long-term success of this innovative PPP model through its public and private sector financing windows.

“Our goal is to unlock the opportunity that power enables for every Burundian. This support from the African Development Bank and SEFA will help accelerate project development and deliver on Burundi’s energy ambitions,” said Brian Kelly, CEO of Anzana Electric Group, the parent company of Weza Power. “This grant represents another major step forward for our team and the many communities across Burundi who will benefit from reliable, affordable power.”

“This support to Weza Power aligns with our commitment to scale innovative business models that can help us reach universal access,” said Daniel Schroth, Director of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency at the African Development Bank. “As a leader in Mission 300, we are proud to support Burundi’s Mission 300 compact and catalyze private capital through bold public-private partnerships like Weza.”

The announcement comes as Burundi unveiled its National Energy Compact at the M300 Private Sector Consultation, hosted by the World Bank Group and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA). The Compact outlines key reforms and investment priorities to reach universal energy access and serves as a cornerstone of the Mission 300 initiative — a joint effort by the World Bank and the African Development Bank to connect 300 million people in Africa by 2030.

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

Media contacts:
Azana Electric:
Thom Wallace
thom.wallance@anzana.com

African Development Bank:
Frederica Lourenco
f.lourenco@afdb.org

About Weza Power:
Weza Power is a private electricity distribution company established to accelerate universal energy access in Burundi. Created and owned by Anzana Electric Group, Weza Power is designed as a national-scale Public-Private Partnership. It is backed by commercial equity, climate-linked and concessional financing, and technical support from multilateral and bilateral donors. The company aims to connect 9 million people across peri-urban and rural areas by 2030, making it one of the most ambitious distribution projects in sub-Saharan Africa. Anzana Electric Group is an investee of Gridworks Development Partners, an investment platform owned by British International Investment that focuses on the transmission and distribution sectors in Africa.

About the African Development Bank:
The African Development Bank (AfDB) is Africa’s premier multilateral development finance institution, supporting economic and social progress across the continent. Burundi is a member of the AfDB Group and a featured country under the Mission 300 initiative, which AfDB co-leads with the World Bank. The Bank’s support includes strategic co-financing and technical assistance to unlock public and private capital for energy access, infrastructure, and inclusive growth.

About the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa:
SEFA is a multi-donor Special Fund that provides catalytic finance to unlock private sector investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency. SEFA offers technical assistance and concessional finance instruments to remove market barriers, build a more robust pipeline of projects and improve the risk-return profile of individual investments. The Fund’s overarching goal is to contribute to universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy services for all in Africa, in line with the New Deal on Energy for Africa and the M300.

About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

Media files

Download logo

June 11, 2025

Eastern Cape government activates disaster teams in response to cold front

Source: South Africa News Agency

The Eastern Cape Provincial Government has activated its disaster management teams in response to severe cold front and associated weather conditions that have struck the province since Monday, 9 June 2025.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the provincial government confirmed that emergency response teams have been dispatched to various areas and are working around the clock to provide critical support to communities impacted by heavy rainfall, strong winds, and snowfall.

The South African Weather Service has issued an Orange Alert Level 6, warning of disruptive snowfall in high-lying regions of the province, potential road closures, flooding, and possible power interruptions.

Several roads have been affected by the heavy rains, including the R61 from Umthatha to Ngcobo and N2 to Kokstad near Emakhaphetshwini outside Umthatha. Damages have also been reported in homes in the OR Tambo, Joe Gqabi, Sarah Baartman Districts and Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality.

Rescue teams were dispatched to bolster rescue efforts just along the R61 outside Mthatha, where three children were stuck on a tree. The children have since been rescued.

The provincial government also confirmed that roads such as Wapadsberg Pass, along the R61 between Nxuba and Graaff-Reinet, have been blanketed in snow, prompting a warning to motorists to drive with extreme caution.

“The provincial government’s primary objective is to safeguard lives and infrastructure during this extreme weather event. Community members are advised to remain alert, monitor official updates, and strictly follow safety directives,” the provincial government said.

Eastern Cape Premier, Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, has urged all motorists to exercise extreme caution and avoid non-essential traveling, as well as travelling through flood-prone and mountainous areas.

He also urged citizens to immediately report hazards, such as downed power lines and road accidents to the nearest authorities.

“Our disaster teams are on high alert and ready to respond wherever assistance is needed. We urge the public to stay cautious and prioritise safety above all else.

“Government is fully mobilised, coordinating closely with local municipalities and emergency services to manage the impact of the weather system and support those affected,” Mabuyane said. – SAnews.gov.za

June 11, 2025

National Convention to set agenda for the National Dialogue

Source: South Africa News Agency

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for a National Convention on Friday, the 15th of August 2025, which will represent the diversity of the South African nation and set the agenda for the National Dialogue.

The National Dialogue is an initiative that has been in discussion by a number of leaders in the country and many other people for some time now.

“This National Convention will represent the diversity of the South African nation. The first National Convention will set the agenda for the National Dialogue.

“It will be a representative gathering, bringing together government, political parties, civil society, business, labour, traditional leaders, religious leaders, cultural workers, sports organisations, women, youth and community voices, among others,” the President said on Tuesday.

The initiative has been gathering support and enthusiasm since it was proposed last year and has been endorsed by a wide range of formations across society.

Over the last few months, government has been engaged in discussions with various entities on the purpose and the form of the dialogue.

WATCH | Announcement of the National Dialogue

[embedded content]

“In the wake of these consultations, there is broad agreement that given the challenges our country is facing at the moment, we should convene the National Dialogue. The idea of holding a dialogue is not a new concept in our country. In many ways having dialogues is part of our DNA as a nation.

“At every important moment in the history of our country, we have come together as a nation to confront our challenges and forge a path into the future in dialogue with one another. Through dialogue we were able to deal with the challenges that the apartheid system caused in our country and achieved peace and overcame violence. We established a democracy and ended apartheid,” the President said.

Following the negotiations process, he explained that dialogue was used to start building a united nation where once there had only been conflict and division.

He said the country achieved all this because everyone came together in dialogue to discuss difficulties, concerns, hopes and inspiration as a people. The country has worked together for more than 30 years to realise the promise of a democratic Constitution.

Challenges

Additionally, progress has been made in expanding freedom, deepening democracy, and improving the lives of millions, while also recognising the persistent challenges that remain. Poverty, unemployment and inequality are “deep wounds” that prevent the nation and country from reaching its full potential.

“Millions of people are under-employed and unemployed. Many of those who work earn wages that cannot sustain them or their families. Crime, gender-based violence and corruption are prevalent across our society.

“We are therefore called upon at this moment to direct all our efforts to build a thriving, inclusive economy that creates jobs and opportunities. We are called upon to build safer communities and to create a better future for our children.

“We are also called upon to give all sectors of our society – men and women, young and old, persons with disabilities, LGBTQI [lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex] community, and urban and rural people – a voice to determine how we address the problems of today and build the South Africa we want for future generations. That is why we have agreed to convene an inclusive National Dialogue,” he said.

Shared vision

The dialogue will be a people-led, society-wide process to reflect on the state of the country in order to reimagine the future.

“Through the National Dialogue, we seek a shared vision of what it means to be a South African and develop a new national ethos and common value system.

“It is an opportunity to forge a new social compact for the development of our country, a compact that will unite all South Africans, with clear responsibilities for different stakeholders, government, business, labour, civil society, men and women, communities and citizens,” the President said.

The dialogue is expected to accelerate progress towards Vision 2030 and help lay the groundwork for the next phase of the National Development Plan.

He emphasised that the dialogue is not a single event, but rather a phased, participatory process beginning with local consultations and sector-specific discussions and culminating in provincial and national engagements.

Through various political, social and other formations, in workplaces, places of worship, communities, villages and sites of learning, South Africans will in the months following the National Convention be encouraged to be in dialogue to define the nation’s path into the future.

“The views, concerns and proposals that will emerge from this conversation will be brought together at a second National Convention, that is planned to be held in the beginning of next year.

“This second National Convention will reinforce our shared values and adopt a common vision and programme of action for our country into the future,” he said.

The President said he expects that the National Convention will finalise a compact that outlines the roles and responsibilities of all South Africans.

Eminent Persons Group

To guide and champion the National Dialogue, the President has appointed an Eminent Persons Group.

He said these are leading figures in society, reflecting the country’s diversity with a proven commitment to the advancement of social cohesion and nation-building.

The members of the group are:
• Dr Brigalia Bam, former Independent Electoral Commission Chairperson,
• Mr Robbie Brozin, entrepreneur and business person,
• Judge Edwin Cameron, former Constitutional Court judge,
• Mr Manne Dipico, former Northern Cape Premier,
• Dr Desiree Ellis, Banyana Banyana coach and football legend,
• Ms Ela Gandhi, peace activist and stalwart,
• Prof Nomboniso Gasa, researcher and rural activist,
• Mr Bobby Godsell, business leader,
• Dr John Kani, award-winning actor,
• Mr Siya Kolisi, Springbok captain and world champion,
• Ms Mia le Roux, Miss South Africa 2024,
• His Grace Bishop Barnabas Lekganyane, leader of the Zion Christian Church,
• His Grace Bishop Engenas Lekganyane, leader of the St Engenas Zion Christian Church,
• The Most Reverend Thabo Makgoba, Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town,
• Prof Tinyiko Maluleke, Chairperson of the National Planning Commission,
• Dr Barbara Masekela, poet, educator and stalwart,
• Ms Lindiwe Mazibuko, former Member of Parliament,
• Mr Roelf Meyer, former Minister and constitutional negotiator,
• Ms Gcina Mhlope, storyteller, writer and actor,
• Ms Nompendulo Mkhatshwa, student activist and former Member of Parliament,
• Ms Kgothatso Montjane, Grand Slam tennis champion,
• Prof Harry Ranwedzi Nengwekhulu, former activist and educationist,
• Mr Bheki Ntshalintshali, unionist and former COSATU General Secretary,
• Hosi Phylia Nwamitwa, traditional leader,
• Kgosi Thabo Seatlholo, chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders,
• Dr Gloria Serobe, business leader,
• Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of the Gift of the Givers,
• Prof Derrick Swartz, academic,
• Ms Lorato Trok, author and early literacy expert,
• Mr Sibusiso Vilane, mountaineer and adventurer,
• Mr Siyabulela Xuza, award-winning rocket scientist.

The President added that UBaba uShembe uNyazi LweZulu has also been invited to join the Eminent Persons Group, but, as he is travelling, has not yet been able to confirm his availability.

“I am grateful to each of these South African patriots who have made themselves available to act as the guarantors of an inclusive, constructive and credible process,” he said.

IMC

An Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) has been established under the chairpersonship of Deputy President Paul Mashatile to coordinate government’s contribution to the National Dialogue.

The President said a Steering Committee will be established, comprised of representatives of various sectors of society, to set strategic priorities and coordinate implementation of the dialogue process.

The Secretariat, which is responsible for day-to-day management of National Dialogue activities, will be housed at NEDLAC, the National Economic Development and Labour Council.

“As a nation, we are embarking on a new path of partnership and united action. We are drawing on our traditions of dialogue and debate. We are determined to define a shared vision of a nation which belongs to all South Africans united in their diversity,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

June 11, 2025

African Development Bank cuts sod for construction of permanent Country Office, cementing over five-decades of partnership with Zambia

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

Permanent office strengthens Bank’s partnership with Zambia.
African Development Bank has financed and facilitated major projects at country and continent level to support regional integration – Finance Minister Musokotwane

The African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) commenced construction of its permanent country office in Lusaka on Friday, marking a transformative milestone in the institution’s 54-year partnership with Zambia.

Since establishing its temporary country office in 2007 with just four staff members, the African Development Bank’s presence in Zambia has grown to 20 permanent staff. The Bank’s cumulative investment in Zambia now stands at $2.7 billion across multiple sectors, with a current active portfolio worth nearly $1 billion.

The groundbreaking event was attended by Finance and National Planning Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane; African Development Bank’s Vice President for Regional Development, Integration and Business Delivery, Nnenna Nwabufo; the Bank’s Director of Real Estate Management, Procurement and General Services, Gail Meakin, as well as other senior government officials, members of the diplomatic community, other development partners, and private sector chief executive officers.

The new office design incorporates cutting-edge sustainability features and wellness-focused design. It will house expanded operations while contributing to Zambia’s economic growth through job creation and business stimulation during both construction and operation. The building is expected to be completed by 2027. It will be a smart building with conferencing and staff wellness facilities, with low energy consumption, a wastewater recycling system, and large green spaces.

Dr. Musokotwane emphasized the significance of a permanent office. “This occasion is not just ceremonial – it’s a vote of confidence in our country, our government, and our people. It recognizes Zambia’s commitment to forge a better future for Africa.”

The Minister thanked the African Development Bank for providing much-needed financial support during Zambia’s development journey and conveyed the President of Zambia’s support for the Bank’s decision to establish a permanent office building and continued development work in the country.

“The African Development Bank’s support has produced many positive results in sectors such as transport, agriculture, water and sanitation, and energy. This shows the Bank’s commitment to deliver on its vision for the African continent,” the Minister said. “AfDB’s support to Zambia has been instrumental in supporting the country’s development goals espoused in the national development plans, which emphasize, among others, the need to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation in all the sectors of the economy.”

Musokotwane listed some of the Bank’s transformative work in Zambia, singling out the Kazungula Bridge Project (https://apo-opa.co/4jORboP), for special commendation.

“We also wish to take this opportunity to commend the Bank for the support rendered to Africa. Through the Bank, major projects have been implemented both at country and continent level to support regional integration in Africa. Key among the projects implemented is the Kazungula bridge project, which is a major infrastructure initiative that involves constructing a road and rail bridge connecting Zambia and Botswana.”

Other notable projects in Zambia include the Integrated Small Towns Water and Sanitation project, the Lusaka Sanitation Programme, Skills Development and Entrepreneurship Project, and the Multi-Purpose Small Dams Project.

Musokotwane urged the Bank to consider expanded support for regional drought recovery efforts, emphasizing the need for building economic resilience across the region. The Southern Africa region is still recovering from the devastating droughts of 2023-2024.

Nwabufo thanked the Government of Zambia for providing the prime land within Lusaka for the construction of the Bank’s country office.

“This new office demonstrates our continued commitment to strengthening our partnership with Zambia. We are here to stay – after all, the African Development Bank is your Bank,” said Bank Vice President Nwabufo.

She reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment, announcing a $250 million commitment to the transformative Lobito Corridor Development Project (http://apo-opa.co/4kY4CU7). The Lobito Corridor is a major economic route connecting the port of Lobito in Angola to the Katanga province in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Copperbelt in Zambia. It encompasses the construction of the Zambia-Angola railway, the rehabilitation of the DRC segment of the railway with the establishment of a public-private partnership, and the upgrading and operationalisation of the Angolan railway.

The African Development Bank’s investments in Zambia continue to deliver impactful results:

The 923-meter-long Kazungula Bridge (https://apo-opa.co/44an9XL) project – supported by the African Development Bank Group with a US$ 81.6 million investment – has revolutionized cross-border trade, reducing transit times from 2.5 days to just half a day.
The Chinsali-Nakonde road rehabilitation and Nacala Road Corridor projects have similarly enhanced regional connectivity.
National water access has increased from 69% to 72% between 2015-2022, while sanitation coverage rose from 50% to 58%, providing 1.9 million additional people with improved water access.
Through the Bank’s agriculture sector, over 1.5 million households have seen their average annual incomes surge from US$320 in 2017 to US$1,300 in 2022. Agricultural productivity has soared, with maize production increasing from 2.9 million tonnes to 3.9 million tonnes and aquaculture output expanding from 20,000 tonnes to 76,000 Tonnes. The Bank’s interventions in the sector have generated approximately 500,000 jobs.
Following the Bank’s intervention in the social sector, including the $30 million Skills Development and Entrepreneurship Project, SME productivity and competitiveness have improved, leading to increased job creation. Eight industrial yards have been constructed in Chipata, Kasama, Mongu, Ndola, Solwezi, Lusaka, Mansa, and Kitwe, with the capacity to accommodate 172 SMEs across various light manufacturing sub-sectors.

The African Development Bank’s 2024-2029 Country Strategy Paper for Zambia focuses on two key priorities: enhancing private sector development through infrastructure investments and promoting agricultural value chains to support youth and women’s employment. This will guide the Banks’ interventions in Zambia for the stated period.

African Development Bank Country Manager for Zambia, Olaniyi Durowoju, noted that “the office would serve as a modern and efficient workspace, and a beacon of innovation and a vibrant hub for partnerships, and collaboration with the Bank’s stakeholders, enabling us better to serve our clients and the people of Zambia”.

– on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Additional Photos: https://apo-opa.co/4mYbuCR

Media contact:
Emeka Anuforo,
Communication and External Relations Department,
media@afdb.org

Media files

Download logo

June 11, 2025

Mop-up operations underway in KwaZulu-Natal after heavy snowfall

Source: South Africa News Agency

Mop-up operations are underway in KwaZulu-Natal following severe snowfall, which caused disruptions to major routes and damaged infrastructure.

Giving an update on the snowfall response measures, following the closure of the N2 highway around Kokstad and Port Shepstone on Tuesday, KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, commended the coordinated efforts of motor grader operators and the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), who worked around the clock to ensure the free traffic flow.

Duma said the department on Tuesday set a target to remove the snow that blanketed the N2 (R56) along the route from Port Shepstone, Kokstad and Eastern Cape.

“Importantly, I gave the team from the Pietermaritzburg Region a mandate to remove the snow before it could accumulate to above 30 cm. They have done exactly that and in record time. This is a historic achievement that inspires us to do more for the people of KwaZulu-Natal,” Duma said.

Snowfall response measures

In anticipation of severe weather, the province activated its comprehensive snowfall response plan following alerts from the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

Measures included:

•    The Road Safety and Traffic Inspectorate involved in the coordination of possible road closures and observation of major routes in consultation with N3 Toll Concession. The focus is on N2, Kokstad and Port Shepstone, N3 between Harrismith, Tugela Toll, R617 between Kokstad and Underberg, Ingeli and N3 Mooi-River, and others.
•    Drivers of motor graders sharpened to respond with speed and a sense of urgency to remove any snow before it accumulates to more than 30cm in depth on the road. More than 10 graders to be stationed on identified routes to ensure that the response is faster.
•    The provincial government interacted with the South African Weather Service to ensure that the response is based on authentic information.

Duma said t the province has applied lessons learned during last year’s snowfall that was triggered by the cut-off low-pressure system.

However, despite these efforts, he said several motorists, including trucks and luxury buses, became stuck along the N2 in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

“We continue to plead with members of the public to heed the warning from the SA Weather Service. If you are asked to delay your trips, please do so in order to save your life. Prevention is better than cure,” Duma said.

District municipalities road conditions

The Department of Transport also provided an update on the status of roads across various district municipalities:
•    eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality: All roads are open. No effect from adverse weather. Experiencing heavy wind on the coastal area.
•    Ilembe District Municipality: All roads are open. No effect from adverse weather. Experiencing heavy wind on coastal area at this time.
•    uMgungundlovu District Municipality: All roads are open. No effect from adverse weather. Experiencing heavy Berg winds currently.
•    Umkhanyakude District Municipality: All roads are open. Experiencing windy conditions. The main concern is a fallen tree on the road at R22, Section 2, which was reported last night. Our standby team responded promptly and removed the tree. The rehabilitation contracts are proceeding smoothly with only day closures currently in place.
•    Zululand District Municipality: No issues have been reported, and the patrol teams are actively monitoring the route.
•    King Cetshwayo District Municipality: All seems to be in order for now. The patrol teams are inspecting the route.
•    N2 Ugu District Municipality: Rain with strong winds. Fallen trees are being attended by Routine Road Management (RRM). No major issues to report on the N2 towards Port Edward and N2 towards Harding.
•    Harry Gwala District Municipality: The N2 from Ingeli towards Kokstad triangle is closed due to the snow. N2 from Kokstad triangle (Kokstad Bridge project) towards Brooksnek is also closed due to snow.
•    Amajuba District Municipality: N11-3 and 4 is clear. Just very high, icy winds prevailing.
•    Uthukela District Municipality: N11-1 and 2 are clear. Just very high, icy winds prevailing. Snow on the Drakensberg but not effecting any roads.
•    Umzinyathi District Municipality: N11-3 clear. Just very high, icy winds prevailing.

“There is rain and strong winds in Umzimkhulu and Ixopo. uMzimkhulu RTI and RRM closed the road on the N2 Stafford Post (Umzimkhulu area) because motorists are not heeding snow warnings and trying to go through despite the snow in Beesterkraal,” Duma said. – SAnews.gov.za