Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Posted on

Canada–Africa Business Conference Preparations Advance Following Canadian Secretary of State’s High-Level Visit to Nigeria

Source: APO


.

Preparations are well underway for the 6th Canada–Africa Business Conference, taking place in Lagos, Nigeria, on June 24–25, 2026, with dozens of Canadian companies already anticipated to participate.

The Honourable Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development), recently concluded a visit to Nigeria, from May 21 to 22, 2026, where he highlighted the 6th Canada–Africa Business Conference (https://apo-opa.co/3RzYGYi), taking place later this month in Lagos. This flagship conference, led by the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business, will convene senior decision-makers from across Canada and Nigeria to unlock new opportunities in trade, investment and large-scale project delivery across the continent. 

Garreth Bloor, President of The Canada–Africa Chamber of Business, said the Secretary of State’s recognition (https://apo-opa.co/4uWl5xq) of the conference, during his recent visit to Nigeria, reinforces the role of key private-sector partners.

“I wish to thank Zenith Bank Plc for taking the lead in accelerating Canada–Africa trade and investment as a financial institution of choice for Canadian companies across the continent, as we build the Canada–Africa growth story together in this important next chapter of global growth,” said Bloor.

The 6th Canada–Africa Business Conference will bring together business leaders, investors, institutional partners, and senior representatives of governments to advance practical opportunities including – but not limited to – trade, investment, financing, infrastructure, retail expansion, technology and energy.

The Chamber said the conference forms part of its broader work to strengthen private-sector-led economic ties between Canada and Africa, supporting trade diversification and deeper commercial engagement with one of the world’s fastest-growing regions.

“Nigeria is Canada’s second-largest merchandise trading partner in Africa and represents an important market as we look to double our non-U.S. exports by 2035. I’m pleased to see so many Canadian businesses take part in the upcoming Canada-Africa Business Conference in Lagos, Nigeria. By fostering increased Canada-Nigeria partnerships in the financial services, infrastructure, energy, mining, agriculture, and clean technologies sectors, we are supporting trade diversification, creating well-paying jobs, and driving sustainable economic growth in Canada and across the African continent.” – Honourable Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade, Canada.

“We look forward to bringing Canadian companies to the conference and engaging with Nigeria’s private and public sectors. Canada’s engagement in Nigeria reflects a broader vision for our relationship with Africa, one grounded in the understanding that the next chapter of global growth is being shaped as much in Lagos, Nairobi, and Accra as in London, New York, and Toronto. The centre of gravity of the global economy is shifting, and Canada is ready to help shape that future together.” – Secretary of State for International Development, Honourable Randeep Sarai, Canada.

 “Zenith Bank Plc is proud to serve as headline sponsor of the 6th Canada–Africa Business Conference in Lagos, an important platform for deepening trade and investment between Canada and Nigeria. As one of Africa’s leading financial institutions, we are committed to supporting Canadian companies seeking to engage with Nigeria and the broader continent, while advancing practical partnerships that contribute to shared growth, innovation, and sustainable prosperity. – Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON – Group Managing Director/CEO, Zenith Bank Plc.

“With over a decade of on-the-ground operations in Nigeria, GardaWorld Security – Africa is delighted to support the 6th Canada-Africa Business Conference in Lagos. This event provides a valuable forum to showcase our experience as a business with Canadian roots while highlighting the strong opportunities presented by Nigeria’s dynamic economy.

Backed by established operations and infrastructure in 13 African countries, GardaWorld Security – Africa is a global champion in sophisticated, tailored security services and technology solutions. We remain firmly committed in supporting businesses and other organizations to thrive in Nigeria and across the continent.” – Mike Gibson, Managing Director – Angola, DRC, Mozambique & Nigeria, GardaWorld Security – Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business.

About the Canada–Africa Chamber of Business:
The Canada–Africa Chamber of Business is a leading private-sector platform accelerating trade and investment between Canada and African markets. Through major conferences, sector-focused programs, and high-level business engagement, the Chamber convenes companies, investors, institutions, and government leaders to advance practical partnerships and long-term economic growth.

Posted on

Remarks by Deputy President Paul Mashatile on the conclusion of the first leg of his Working Visit to India

Source: President of South Africa –

Members of the media,

Today marks the fourth day of our visit to India.

We had a highly productive first leg of our Working Visit to the Republic of India here in New Delhi, together with the delegation of Ministers and Deputy Ministers.

We have come to the capital of India to build on the long-standing friendship and partnership between our two countries. Currently, India ranks among the top 10 investing countries in South Africa.

The purpose of this visit has been to strengthen our trade and investment relations. As such, we engaged business associates, current investors in South Africa and India, and those who want to invest in our country.

During the first leg of our Working Visit, we had high-level bilateral meetings with His Excellency Vice President Chandrapuram PonnusamiRadhakrishnan and a courtesy call on Her Excellency Mrs. Droupadi Murmu, which reinforced the strategic partnership between South Africa and India and its shared democratic values. We also discussed trade, investment, skills development, and infrastructure.

Our meetings reaffirmed our historic common bond of cooperation and friendship between South Africa and India and the deep cooperation in the areas of trade diversification, investment promotion, skills development, and multilateral cooperation in such areas as BRICS, IBSA, the G20, and the United Nations.

Our engagements have also sought to align our cooperation with Africa’s Agenda 2063 and India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, ensuring that our partnership contributes to inclusive growth and renewal within the context of global South cooperation.

I engaged with leading Indian corporations and business associations. This included delivering a keynote at the Global Trade and Technology Council of India (GTTCI) Business Round Table. We understand that GTTCI is an apex business chamber and trade organisation founded in 2021 to promote bilateral trade, technology exchange, and global investment between India and the rest of the world.

I also met with the National Association of Software Services Companies (NASSCOM), which operates as a nonprofit organisation and serves as a key entity within the Indian technology sector.

There was consensus on South Africa and India transitioning from dialogue to action, aiming to transform historic solidarity into a future-oriented partnership centered on innovation, industrialisation, and shared prosperity.

Further engagement includes meeting with companies investing in the following sectors: energy, water, infrastructure, and agriculture as well as ICT.

Specifically, we engaged with companies such as Mahindra Group, Jindal Power, IGT Solution, SBU Head Thermax, UFlex, and others. 

Our discussions focused on expanding investment footprints in South Africa in sectors such as renewable energy, automotive manufacturing, mining, and infrastructure. 

We also discussed the possibilities for collaboration in the increase and diversification of exporting agricultural products and agro-processing, beneficiation of key minerals, and vaccine manufacturing.

Key outcomes of the visit include:

– Reaffirmation and resetting of the Strategic Partnership between South Africa and India, anchored in shared prosperity and innovation.

– Commitments by Indian industry leaders to expand investments in South Africa, particularly in clean energy, pharmaceuticals, ICT, and automotive components.

– Progress on trade facilitation, including India’s notification of in-transit cold treatment for South African citrus exports, a milestone for our agricultural producers.

– Strengthened cooperation in multilateral forums, with alignment on reforming global institutions and advancing Africa’s Agenda 2063 alongside India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.

– Enhanced people-to-people ties, recognising the deep cultural and historical bonds between our nations.

This visit has laid a solid basis for greater cooperation and development of a better future for all. It has positioned South Africa as India’s gateway into Africa under the African Continental Free Trade Area, while reinforcing our role as a reliable partner in advancing the development agenda of the Global South.

As part of the second leg of this visit, tomorrow we will be at Hyderabad, where we will engage further with leaders in the pharmaceuticals and information technology industries.

Our discussion will seek to reinforce South Africa’s vision of inclusive growth and shared prosperity, underscoring the country’s readiness to deepen partnerships that advance innovation, expand opportunities for youth, and strengthen the bonds of solidarity between South Africa and India.

I committed myself to growing investment in South Africa and to building mutually beneficial relationships with India, rooted in shared prosperity. Our business in South Africa and India will be facilitated.

As the second Deputy President of South Africa to visit India, I want to affirm that though this trip is my first visit, it is the beginning of many to come.

I look forward to returning to India in the near future to further strengthen our relations, deepen our economic partnership, and advance sustainable development. We will endeavour to facilitate a trade and investment interface between South African and Indian people.

I wish to express my gratitude to the Government and people of India for their warm hospitality.

I thank you.

Posted on

Deputy President Mashatile to engage Private Sector Captains of Industry to strengthen the work of SANAC

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Paul Mashatile, in his capacity as Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), will on Thursday, 04 June 2026, meet with Private Sector Captains of Industry in Johannesburg, with a view to strengthen the implementation of the country’s National Strategic Plan (NSP) for HIV, TB and STIs. 

The engagement, hosted under the umbrella of the SANAC Private Sector Forum (PSF), will provide a high-level platform to explore opportunities for closing the funding gap left by external donors, through sustainable public–private financing models to accelerate the implementation of the NSP. 

South Africa continues to face a high burden of HIV and TB, with millions affected and ongoing new infections despite progress in treatment and prevention interventions. While the NSP provides a clear roadmap, challenges such as funding gaps, slow prevention progress, and high rate of new infections still persist. 

The HIV and TB epidemics also place significant strain on the economy by reducing productivity, increasing healthcare costs, and impacting key labour-intensive sectors, thus underscoring the need for stronger government–private sector collaboration.

The engagement will also mark the formal launch of the fully constituted SANAC Private Sector Forum across all nine provinces. It will further align expectations, commitments, and messaging ahead of key national and international funding milestones, including current and future Global Fund replenishments.

Members of the media are invited to attend and cover the high-level meeting as follows:

Date: Thursday, 04 June 2026 
Time: 17h00 (Media to arrive at 16h00)
Venue: Aspen Pharmacare, Healthcare Park, Woodlands Drive, Woodmead, Sandton

Dress Code: Business Formal/Traditional
 
Members of the media wishing to cover the event are kindly requested to RSVP with their full names, designation, media house and ID numbers to Simangaliso Motsepe (SANAC) at simangaliso@sanac.org.za by end of day Wednesday, 03 June 2026.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President, on 066 195 8840, or Nelson Dlamini (SANAC) on 078 731 0313 / nelson@sanac.org.za 

Issued jointly by: The Presidency and SANAC
Pretoria

Posted on

Presidency notes ICJ order of 21 May 2026 on the matter between the Government of the Republic of South Africa and the State of Israel

Source: President of South Africa –

On 21 May 2026, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued an Order setting a deadline of 22 November 2027 for South Africa to file its Reply to Israel’s written pleading – submitted in March 2026 – in the case of Application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in the Gaza Strip (South Africa v. Israel). Israel will then have until 22 May 2029 to submit a Rejoinder. The ICJ’s Order follows a meeting of the representatives of the parties and the President of the Court in The Hague on 29 April 2026, called by the President of the Court to discuss the next procedural steps in the case. 

A second round of written pleadings is common in ICJ cases; in fact, in all previous cases brought under the Genocide Convention, parties have submitted a Reply and a Rejoinder. Moreover, as Israel has now objected to the jurisdiction of the Court in its Counter-Memorial, submitted in March 2026 – and not, as contemplated in the Rules of Court, “as soon as possible, and not later than three months after the delivery of the Memorial” (i.e. January 2025) – South Africa will now have to address these objections to the Court’s jurisdiction in its Reply.

In terms of the Rules of Court, the written pleadings remain confidential until the Court determines otherwise. At the time of filing its Counter-Memorial Israel’s counsel publicly declared that “its Counter-Memorial [proves] its legitimate objectives in the war have always been to eliminate the military and governing capabilities of Hamas and other terrorist organizations”. Whether or not Israel’s war on Gaza is authorised by, or has complied with, the international law regarding self-defence, as claimed by Israel’s counsel, South Africa’s response is a simple one: self-defence is not a defence to genocide, there is none. 

What is more, Israel remains bound by the three provisional measures Orders issued by the ICJ – at the request of South Africa – that seek to ensure the protection of the rights of Palestinians in Gaza, which the Court has determined are under “real and imminent risk of irreparable prejudice”. These Orders oblige Israel, amongst other things, to ensure that its military does not commit any genocidal acts in Gaza, to ensure “without delay, in full co-operation with the United Nations, the unhindered provision…of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance”, ensure the “unimpeded access” of UN commissions of inquiry, fact-finding mission and other investigative bodies to the Gaza Strip.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to President Ramaphosa on media@presidency.gov.za 

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Posted on

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Meets German Presidential Foreign Affairs Chief in Berlin

Source: Government of Qatar

Berlin, June 02, 2026
Adviser to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari, met in Berlin on Tuesday with HE Wolfgang Silbermann, Director-General of the Foreign Policy Department of the Office of the Federal President.

The two officials discussed bilateral relations and explored ways to strengthen cooperation between the State of Qatar and the Federal Republic of Germany.

They also exchanged views on recent developments in the region, with particular focus on Pakistani mediation efforts between the United States and Iran.

The meeting was attended by HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Federal Republic of Germany, Abdullah bin Ibrahim Al Hamar. 

Posted on

Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets IAEA Director General

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, June 02, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met in Doha on Tuesday with HE Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Grossi.

During the meeting, they discussed reinforcing bilateral cooperation between the State of Qatar and the IAEA, as well as the latest developments pertaining to the negotiations on the Iranian nuclear program.

In addition, the two sides addressed a wide range of topics of shared interest.

Posted on

Uganda: Parliament concludes vetting of ministers

Source: APO

Parliament has completed the vetting of Cabinet and state ministers who were recently appointed by the President Yoweri Museveni.

The two-day exercise was carried out by the Appointments Committee chaired by Speaker Jacob Marksons Oboth.

High on the agenda of some of the newly appointed ministers is combating corruption.

The State Minister for Local Government, Hon. Justine Nameere said action will be taken on errant officers in local governments noting that several whistleblowers have already reported incidents of corruption.

“The revenues at cities, districts and the divisions are being under declared. A city is collecting Shs1.7 billion, but an errant town clerk will tell you they are collecting Shs20 million. That is a huge leakage. We must ensure government programmes are alive and also buttress the supervisory role,” Nameere said.

The State Minister for National Guidance, Hon. Alioni Yorke Odria proposed digital measures to curb graft.

“Through the ministry, we are going to introduce software that we shall use to fight corruption, be it through phone calls or bank systems. We shall work with other ministries to ensure that this fight is done across the board,” Odria said.

Realignment of public service positions and transparency in recruitment for jobs is top on Hon. Lydia Wanyoto’s priorities as she commences her role as State Minister for Public Service.

“I have heard severally that there are many people in acting capacity, that there are challenges of promotions. There are reports of public service boards asking for bribes to give jobs. We shall ensure that Ugandans who qualify go through due recruitment processes and that no Ugandan pays for a public service job,” Wanyoto emphasised.

Ugandans were urged to remain calm and follow standard health operating procedures in light of the recent Ebola cases, with new State Minister for Primary Health Care, Hon. Charles Ayume noting that a lockdown is not necessary.

“We are guided by scientific evidence so we should not panic. A lockdown is usually the last measure but right now, the Ministry [Health] is doing whatever it takes through surveillance, creating awareness and early warning systems,” Ayume said.

Hon. Phyllis Chemutai, the State Minister for Primary Education pledged to work towards improving the standing of UPE schools in the country, especially through improving infrastructure.

“There is also a problem of poor feeding of primary pupils and many parents cannot afford the feeding policy. This causes children to perform poorly and dropout of school. I will advocate that children are given food to sustain them in school,” Chemutai pledged.

Amb. Adonia Ayebare, the Minister for Foreign Affairs said he will work towards bringing all Ministries, Departments and Agencies as stakeholders in Uganda’s foreign policy.

“This will ensure that we are all well-coordinated in delivering effective implementation of our foreign policy which is based on patriotism, regional integration and pan-Africanism,” Amb. Ayebare said.

The role of the Appointments Committee is provided for in Rule 173 of the Rules of Procedure of Parliament, which states that, the committee shall be responsible for approving, on behalf of Parliament, the appointment of persons nominated for appointment by the President.

The Speaker will now write to the President as provided for in Rule 177. 

“The Speaker shall communicate to the President in writing, within three working days after the decision of the Committee on Appointments, on any person nominated by the President for appointment,” the rule states. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

Media files

.

Posted on

Le Conseil d’administration du Fonds de développement des exportations en Afrique (FEDA) nomme M. Emmanuel Assiak au poste de Directeur général

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Fonds de développement des exportations en Afrique (FEDA), la branche d’investissement à impact sur le développement de la Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), a annoncé la nomination de M.  Emmanuel Assiak au poste de Directeur général du FEDA, avec effet au 15 Décembre 2025.

Cette nomination intervient à un moment crucial de la croissance du FEDA, qui poursuit le développement de ses activités d’investissement visant à soutenir les efforts de développement des exportations et d’industrialisation de l’Afrique, notamment dans un contexte de forte fuite des capitaux. Un leadership fort sera essentiel pour permettre au FEDA de remplir sa mission de mobilisation et d’investissement de capitaux dans des secteurs tournés vers l’exportation, conformément aux priorités stratégiques d’Afreximbank.

M. Assiak possède plus de 30 ans d’expérience dans les services financiers, dont une vingtaine d’années dans le capital-investissement. Il a fait ses preuves en matière de pilotage et d’accompagnement d’investissements de grande envergure sur les marchés africains, et possède une expertise pointue en structuration de transactions, déploiement de capitaux et création de valeur. Il a piloté des investissements dans de nombreux secteurs en Afrique, siégé à plusieurs conseils d’administration et mené à bien des transactions complexes et des sorties d’investisseurs. Son expérience couvre le leadership, les partenariats stratégiques, le développement institutionnel et la conduite d’investissements transformateurs à travers le continent.

Il a fortement contrinué au développement du FEDA depuis sa création, ayant occupé les fonctions de Directeur Pionnier et de Directeur Général / Directeur des investissements pendant plus de six ans, et plus récemment celles de directeur général par intérim depuis novembre 2025.

Durant son mandat de directeur des investissements, il a joué un rôle clé dans la mise en place des plateformes d’investissement du FEDA et le développement de son portefeuille, contribuant de manière significative à sa croissance et à son développement institutionnel.

Avant de rejoindre le FEDA en 2019, M. Assiak était vice-président et associé principal à African Capital Alliance, un groupe d’investissement panafricain, et a occupé des postes de direction dans le secteur bancaire nigérian, notamment à Zenith Bank Plc et Continental Trust Bank (désormais intégrée au groupe United Bank for Africa (UBA)).

M. Assiak est titulaire d’un MBA de la Manchester Business School, d’une maîtrise en sciences économiques de l’Université de Lagos et d’une licence en sciences économiques de l’Université de Cross River State (rebaptisée Université d’Uyo). Il est membre Fellow de l’Institut des experts-comptables du Nigéria et est titulaire d’un certificat de cadre en capital-investissement délivré par le Coller Institute de la London Business School.

Dr George Elombi, Président d’Afreximbank et Président des Conseils d’administration de la Banque et du FEDA, a déclaré : « Le leadership de M. Assiak, sa connaissance approfondie des institutions et sa compréhension du marché africain du capital-investissement sont essentiels au renforcement du secteur privé africain, moteur clé du commerce intra-africain et de la transformation économique du continent. Compte tenu de son expérience, nous nous attendons à ce que le FEDA continue de mobiliser et de déployer des investissements stratégiques visant à accélérer l’industrialisation, la création de valeur ajoutée et le développement des exportations sur l’ensemble du continent ».

Commentant sa nomination, M. Emmanuel Assiak, Directeur général du FEDA, a déclaré : « Je tiens à exprimer ma sincère gratitude aux Conseils d’administration du FEDA et à Afreximbank pour leur confiance renouvelée. Le FEDA contribue de manière significative à la mobilisation de capitaux à long terme pour les secteurs industriels et d’exportation africains, et nous nous appuierons sur les solides fondations établies. Avec nos partenaires, le FEDA renforcera son impact en intensifiant les investissements qui créent de la valeur, renforcent le commerce intra-africain et soutiennent le programme d’industrialisation du continent ».

M. Assiak sera basé à Kigali, au Rwanda.

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

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

Réseaux sociaux :
FEDA
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4fmBGFT

Afreximbank
X: https://apo-opa.co/49wJph4
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3RFsD9m
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4uNQDFW
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4o4mdg4

À propos du FEDA :
Le Fonds de développement des exportations en Afrique (« FEDA ») est la filiale d’investissement à impact d’Afreximbank (www.afreximbank.com), créée pour fournir des capitaux propres, des quasi-fonds propres et des capitaux d’emprunt afin de financer le déficit de financement de plusieurs milliards de dollars (en particulier en capitaux propres) nécessaire pour transformer le secteur du commerce en Afrique. Le FEDA poursuit une stratégie d’investissement multisectorielle le long de la chaîne de valeur du commerce intra-africain, du développement des exportations à valeur ajoutée et de la fabrication, qui comprend les services financiers, la technologie, les biens de consommation et de détail, l’industrie manufacturière, le transport et la logistique, l’agro-industrie, ainsi que les infrastructures auxiliaires d’appui au commerce, telles que les parcs industriels.  À ce jour, la FEDA a investi plus de 1, 3 milliards de dollars dans des entreprises et des projets dans le cadre de ses différentes initiatives de fonds, dans des secteurs tels que l’industrie manufacturière, l’agroalimentaire, les services financiers, les soins de santé et les produits pharmaceutiques, entre autres.

Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez visiter www.FEDAgroup.org

À propos d’Afreximbank : 
La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) est une institution financière multilatérale panafricaine dédiée au financement et à la promotion du commerce intra et extra-africain. Depuis 30 ans, Afreximbank déploie des structures innovantes pour fournir des solutions de financement qui facilitent la transformation de la structure du commerce africain et accélèrent l’industrialisation et le commerce intrarégional, soutenant ainsi l’expansion économique en Afrique. Fervente défenseur de l’Accord sur la Zone de Libre-Échange Continentale Africaine (ZLECAf), Afreximbank a lancé les le Système panafricain de paiement et de règlement (PAPSS) qui a été adopté par l’Union africaine (UA) comme la plateforme de paiement et de règlement devant appuyer la mise en œuvre de la ZLECAf. En collaboration avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf et l’UA, la Banque a mis en place un Fonds d’ajustement de 10 milliards de dollars US pour aider les pays à participer de manière effective à la ZLECAf. À la fin de décembre 2025, le total des actifs et des garanties de la Banque s’élevait à environ 48,5 milliards de dollars US et les fonds de ses actionnaires s’établissaient à 8,4 milliards de dollars US. Afreximbank est notée AAA par China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI), A par GCR, A- par Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) et Baa2 par Moody’s. Moody’s (Baa2). Au fil des ans, Afrexi.mbank est devenue un groupe constitué de la Banque, de sa filiale de financement à impact appelée Fonds de développement des exportations en Afrique (FEDA), et de sa filiale de gestion d’assurance, AfrexInsure, (les trois entités forment « le Groupe »). La Banque a son siège social au Caire, en Égypte. 

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

Media files

Posted on

Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA) Board Appoints Mr. Emmanuel Assiak as Chief Executive Officer

Source: APO

The Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA), the equity investment arm of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), has announced the appointment of Mr. Emmanuel Assiak as its Chief Executive Officer, effective 15 December 2025.

The appointment comes at a pivotal stage in FEDA’s growth, as it continues to scale its investment activities to support Africa’s export development and industrialization agenda, especially amid severe capital flight. Strong leadership will be key to advancing FEDA’s mandate to mobilize and deploy capital into export-oriented sectors aligned with Afreximbank’s strategic priorities.

Mr. Assiak brings over 30 years’ experience in financial services, including about 20 years in private equity. He has a strong track record of leading and supporting large-scale investments across African markets, with deep expertise in transaction structuring, capital deployment, and value creation. He has led investments across multiple sectors in Africa, served on several corporate boards, and successfully executed complex transactions and investor exits. His experience spans leadership, strategic partnerships, institution-building, and driving transformational investments across the continent.

He has been closely involved in FEDA’s development since inception, having served as Pioneer Director and Managing Director/Chief Investment Officer for over six years, and most recently as the interim Chief Executive Officer since November 2025.

During his tenure as Chief Investment Officer, he played a key role in establishing FEDA’s investment platforms and building its portfolio, contributing significantly to the growth and institutional development.

Prior to joining FEDA in 2019, Mr. Assiak served as Vice President and Principal at African Capital Alliance -a pan-African investment group-, and held senior roles in the Nigerian banking sector, including at Zenith Bank Plc. and Continental Trust Bank (now part of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group).

Mr. Assiak holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Manchester Business School, a Master of Science in Economics from the University of Lagos and a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the University of Cross River State (now University of Uyo). He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and holds an executive certification in Private Equity at the Coller Institute, London Business School.

Dr. George Elombi, President and Chairman of both the Board of Directors of Afreximbank and FEDA, commented: “Mr. Assiak’s leadership, deep institutional knowledge, and understanding of Africa’s private equity market are critical to strengthening Africa’s private sector, a key driver of Africa’s intra-African trade and economic transformation. Given his track record, we expect FEDA to continue to mobilize and deploy strategic investments aimed at accelerating industrialization, value addition, and boosting export development across the continent.”

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Emmanuel Assiak, Chief Executive Officer, FEDA said: “I extend my sincere appreciation to the Board of Directors of FEDA and Afreximbank for their continued trust and confidence. FEDA is contributing significantly to mobilizing long-term capital for Africa’s export and industrial sectors, and we will build on the established strong foundation. Together with our partners, FEDA will deepen its impact by scaling investments that unlock value, strengthen intra-African trade, and support the continent’s industrialization agenda.”

Mr. Assiak will be based in Kigali, Rwanda.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

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

Social Media: 
FEDA
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4fmBGFT

Afreximbank
X: https://apo-opa.co/49wJph4
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3RFsD9m
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4uNQDFW
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4o4mdg4

About FEDA:
The Fund for Export Development in Africa (“FEDA”) is the impact investment subsidiary of Afreximbank (www.afreximbank.com), set up to provide equity, quasi-equity, and debt capital to finance the multi-billion-dollar funding gap (particularly in equity) needed to transform the Trade sector in Africa. FEDA pursues a multi-sector investment strategy along the intra-African trade, value-added export development, and manufacturing value chain which includes financial services, technology, consumer and retail goods, manufacturing, transport & logistics, agribusiness, as well as ancillary trade enabling infrastructure such as industrial parks.  To date, FEDA has invested more than US$1.3 billion in companies and projects across its various fund initiatives, in sectors such as manufacturing, agro-processing, financial services, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, amongst others.

For more information, visit: www.FEDAgroup.org  

About Afreximbank: 
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2025, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$48.5 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$8.4 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), GCR (A), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-), and. Moody’s (Baa2). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt. 

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

Media files

.

Posted on

Ecobank Group Launches World First Nature Bond Mobilising Global Capital to Protect Africa’s Natural Ecosystems

Source: APO – Report:

Ecobank Group (www.Ecobank.com) has launched the world’s first ICMA commercial bank-issued Nature Bond on the London Stock Exchange, creating a new route for international and African capital to protect Africa’s biodiversity. Moody’s awarded the transaction its highest possible sustainability quality score, SQS1 Excellent. The bond will support African farmers, sustainable agriculture businesses and water systems, protecting some of the planet’s most important ecosystems.

Impact on the ground in Africa

Africa is home to some of the world’s most important natural capital, including arable land, tropical forests, freshwater systems and biodiversity across hundreds of millions of hectares. But, until now, private nature capital has not flowed to Africa at the scale the continent’s ecological significance warrants in global ecological resilience. Despite hosting 25% of global biodiversity, Africa receives less than 3% of nature finance      

Ecobank’s Nature Bond is a direct response to this gap. It will support smallholder farmers adopting sustainable agricultural practices, agri-processors with verified deforestation-free supply chains, and water infrastructure protecting freshwater ecosystems relied upon by millions of people. Unlike many conservation-focused financing vehicles, Ecobank’s Nature Bond channels capital directly through Africa’s real economy — financing businesses and communities whose day-to-day activities shape environmental outcomes at scale.

The investments will be made in 24 markets, with significant deployment in biodiversity-priority countries such as Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso and Ghana. Importantly, 81% of the eligible lending pool is allocated to countries where agricultural land-use change is the primary driver of biodiversity loss, helping direct capital to the areas where it can have the greatest environmental impact.

The framework also incorporates independent monitoring and verification mechanisms, including deforestation screening and supply chain traceability requirements, helping ensure that financed activities deliver measurable nature-positive outcomes. Every eligible loan carries seven independently verified sustainability conditions.

The launch of this bond also comes as governments and investors worldwide face mounting pressure to mobilise private capital for biodiversity protection and sustainable land use.

What is a Nature Bond?

A Nature Bond, under the ICMA secondary designation, requires proceeds to actively contribute to nature-positive outcomes, including transforming economic activities to reduce the drivers of nature loss at scale.

The Nature Bond was designed to reach those that conservation-focused instruments were not designed to serve – farmers, agri-processors and water operators whose daily activities collectively determine ecosystem outcomes.

While green bonds typically finance a broad range of environmental objectives, the Nature Bond designation focuses the use of proceeds specifically on nature-related outcomes, including biodiversity, sustainable agriculture, land use and water infrastructure.

The transaction

The USD 450 million bond was priced following strong investor demand with the final orderbook exceeding USD 1.36 billion – 3.9x the original target size. The strength of demand enabled Ecobank to increase the transaction by USD 100 million and tighten pricing by 50 basis points.

The transaction attracted support from both international and African investors, demonstrating Ecobank’s unique ability to mobilise capital across global and African markets.

For the first time, international and African capital markets have a credible, scalable mechanism for financing the protection of African natural capital through the communities who depend on it.

Jeremy Awori, Group Chief Executive Office, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, commented:

“This transaction is a defining moment for African sustainable finance. Investors did not just support this bond. They demanded more of it, allowing us to increase the size and tighten pricing.

We are not a bank that simply labels bonds. We have spent four years building the systems, governance and accountability needed to make nature finance credible and scalable in Africa.

This bond is ultimately about the farmers, cooperatives and communities whose livelihoods depend on healthy ecosystems.”

Rachael Antwi, Group Head of Sustainability and ESRM, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, added:

“Nature finance will only scale in Africa if it is practical, measurable and connected to the real economy. This bond is designed to do that by linking international capital to eligible lending for sustainable agriculture and water infrastructure across 24 countries. It reflects the systems and standards Ecobank has built to ensure nature finance supports both environmental resilience and the communities whose livelihoods depend on healthy ecosystems.”

– on behalf of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated.

Media Contact:
Christiane Mbimbe Bossom
Group Communications
Ecobank Transnational Incorporated
Email: groupcorporatecomms@ecobank.com

Hudson Sandler
ecobank@hudsonsandler.com

About Ecobank Group (or ‘Ecobank Transnational Incorporated’ or ‘ETI’):
Ecobank Group is the leading private pan-African banking group with unrivalled African expertise. Present in 34 sub-Saharan African countries, as well as France, the UK, UAE and China, its unique pan-African platform provides a single gateway for payments, cash management, trade and investment. The Group employs over 14,000 people and offers Consumer, Commercial, Corporate and Investment Banking products, services and solutions across multiple channels, including digital, to over 30 million customers. For further information, please visit www.Ecobank.com.

Media files

.