eThekwini Municipality strengthens ties in UAE to advance smart city

Source: South Africa News Agency

eThekwini Municipality strengthens ties in UAE to advance smart city

The eThekwini Municipality has embarked on a high-level international engagement mission in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), reinforcing its commitment to sustainable urban development, cutting-edge transport systems, and smart city transformation.

City Manager, Musa Mbhele is currently leading a series of high-level strategic engagements with government and business leaders in Abu Dhabi to explore strategic partnerships that could unlock economic opportunities and introduce advanced infrastructure innovation solutions.

This follows a successful initial round of discussions with major Abu Dhabi institutions, which laid a robust foundation for collaboration in integrated mobility, urban planning, and digital governance.

Key objectives of the UAE mission

The current leg of the mission, taking place from 16 to 19 June 2025, aims to:  
•    Finalise agreements with the Integrated Transport Center (ITC) and the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) to implement forward-looking transport innovations aligned to the needs of the eThekwini region.
•    Explore technology-driven investment platforms with Maqta Technologies, a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Ports Group, focusing on digital investment portals, such as the Single Window and the proposed “Invest in KZN” prototype.
•    Consolidate the Abu Dhabi-Dubai-KZN knowledge exchange corridor, focusing on smart logistics, sustainable infrastructure, and advanced technologies in customs clearance and risk analytics through platforms like BorderVision, RiskLab, and BorderMeter.

Mbhele is joined by Project Executive in the Chief Operations Office, Lungelo Buthelezi, and Acting Head of the eThekwini Transport Authority, Nelisiwe Zama.

On 16 June, the team led constructive discussions with senior leaders in Dubai’s Department of Municipalities and Transport, centred on building urban spaces, where mobility is seamless, sustainable, and intelligently connected.

“As urban landscapes evolve, the integration of smart transport systems, thoughtful urban planning, and municipal coordination has become more crucial than ever. We are in the United Arab Emirates to leverage international best practices.

“By embracing innovation and strategic planning, we pave the way for a connected and resilient urban future for our city of Durban,” said Mbhele.

Collaboration with UAE mobility and infrastructure leaders

The eThekwini delegation also engaged with key stakeholders in Abu Dhabi’s intelligent mobility and digital infrastructure sectors.

Among the stakeholders included Dr Emily Mogano, Vice President of Partnerships at the Sheikh Maktoum NEO Technologies Office, who expressed enthusiasm for the growing collaboration.

Senior representatives from the UAE’s transport sector, led by Minister Abdulla Al Hashmi, Director of Traffic Systems at the Integrated Transport Center, shared insights on Abu Dhabi’s Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS). These include smart mobility advancements, traffic infrastructure optimisation, and road safety enhancements driven by cutting-edge technologies.

Al Hashmi emphasised the UAE’s readiness to collaborate with eThekwini on solutions tailored for Durban’s urban context.

These engagements underscores eThekwini’s commitment to proactive global cooperation and innovation-driven development, positioning Durban as a hub for international investment, mobility innovation, and smart governance. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK

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Infobip figure parmi les 75 entreprises les plus innovantes d’Europe selon le classement Fortune


La plateforme mondiale de communication Infobip  (www.Infobip.com) vient d’être consacrée par le classement inaugural de Fortune des entreprises les plus innovantes d’Europe, en se hissant à la 68e place. Cette position la situe dans le premier quart du tableau, parmi les 75 entreprises les plus avant-gardistes du continent. Une reconnaissance qui témoigne de l’engagement sans relâche d’Infobip à faire progresser l’écosystème technologique européen, à travers des innovations à forte valeur ajoutée.

Ce premier classement « Europe’s Most Innovative Companies » de Fortune, réalisé en partenariat avec Statista, s’appuie sur l’analyse de 300 entreprises issues de 21 pays et réparties sur 16 secteurs d’activité. Les critères d’évaluation portent sur la culture de l’innovation, le développement de nouveaux produits et l’optimisation des processus internes.

Acteur majeur de la transformation numérique en Europe, Infobip s’illustre notamment par sa participation au projet IPCEI-CIS, une initiative stratégique visant à créer la prochaine génération de plateformes mondiales de communication, et à consolider la compétitivité technologique du continent. Aux côtés de partenaires de renom tels que Deutsche Telekom AG, NVIDIA ou Telefónica, Infobip affirme ainsi sa volonté de placer l’innovation au cœur de sa contribution au progrès européen.

Silvio Kutić, CEO d’Infobip, déclare à ce sujet : « Être reconnu par Fortune comme l’une des entreprises les plus innovantes d’Europe est une marque forte de reconnaissance pour nos équipes et notre culture de l’innovation. Chez Infobip, nous cultivons un environnement où l’expérimentation est encouragée, où la collaboration est la norme, et où l’échec n’est pas une fin mais une étape sur le chemin de l’invention. Cette philosophie nous a permis de redéfinir les codes des communications omnicanales. Aujourd’hui, à l’heure où les entreprises cherchent à renforcer leurs stratégies d’engagement, nous jouons souvent un rôle moteur en les accompagnant dans l’adoption de solutions conversationnelles avancées, en phase avec les évolutions de l’intelligence artificielle. »

Les technologies développées par Infobip alimentent l’engagement client de nombreuses grandes marques à travers le monde. De la réservation de trajets via WhatsApp pour Uber en Inde à la mise en place d’assistants intelligents pour les leaders européens de la fintech et du retail, Infobip accompagne ses clients dans la mise en œuvre d’expériences fluides, personnalisées et hautement sécurisées. Ses récentes collaborations avec des marques telles que NEXT, Digitaleo ou AXA mettent en lumière l’expertise de l’entreprise dans l’intégration de l’IA et du RCS au service d’une nouvelle génération de parcours client. Au-delà de ses solutions, Infobip anime également les réflexions de l’écosystème tech à travers des rendez-vous comme la conférence annuelle SHIFT, qui réunit développeurs, décideurs et créateurs autour de l’avenir de l’intelligence artificielle et de la transformation numérique. L’édition 2025 se tiendra du 14 au 16 septembre à Zadar, en Croatie, et portera notamment sur l’impact de l’IA dans les domaines du développement logiciel et de la créativité.

Grethe Schepers, directrice des classements pour la zone Europe chez Fortune, souligne : « Ce classement ne se limite pas à identifier les leaders actuels : il met en lumière les esprits audacieux qui, à travers l’Europe, réinventent les industries de l’intérieur. L’innovation, ici, ne relève pas du simple discours : elle constitue une force centrale, structurante, pour l’avenir du continent. »

Consultez la liste complète des entreprises les plus innovantes d’Europe en 2025 sur le site de Fortune :
https://apo-opa.co/44c7eah

Distribué par APO Group pour Infobip.

Contacts presse :
Marcelo Nahime  
marcelo.nahime@infobip.com

Bojana Mandić 
Bojana.Mandic1@infobip.com

À propos d’Infobip :
Infobip est une plateforme mondiale de communications cloud qui permet aux entreprises de concevoir des expériences connectées à chaque étape du parcours client. Accessible depuis une seule interface, l’offre d’Infobip combine engagement omnicanal, gestion des identités, authentification des utilisateurs et solutions de centre de contact. Son ambition : aider ses clients à surmonter la complexité des communications numériques pour accélérer leur croissance et renforcer leur relation client. Grâce à une technologie développée en interne, Infobip peut atteindre plus de sept milliards d’appareils et objets connectés sur six continents, via plus de 9 700 connexions — dont plus de 800 directes avec des opérateurs télécoms. Fondée en 2006, l’entreprise est dirigée par ses cofondateurs : Silvio Kutić (PDG), Roberto Kutić et Izabel Jelenić.

Distinctions récentes:

  • Classée Leader pour la troisième fois dans le rapport Omdia CPaaS Universe (avril 2025)
  • Nommée Leader établi dans le classement de l’IA conversationnelle par Juniper Research (février 2025)
  • Consacrée Leader CPaaS pour la troisième fois par l’IDC MarketScape (février 2025)
  • Identifiée comme l’un des principaux fournisseurs CPaaS dans le rapport MetriRank de Metrigy (décembre 2024)
  • N°1 parmi les leaders établis en messagerie RCS pour les entreprises selon Juniper Research (novembre 2024)
  • Récompensée comme principal acteur de la prévention de la fraude AIT par Juniper Research (octobre 2024)
  • Désignée Leader dans le Magic Quadrant™ 2024 de Gartner® pour les CPaaS, pour la deuxième année consécutive (juin 2024)
  • Sélectionnée dans la liste annuelle des entreprises les plus innovantes du monde par Fast Company (mars 2024)

Carbon Markets Africa Summit: Unlocking Africa’s Carbon Wealth Through Integrity, Action and Investment — Carbon Markets Africa Summit (CMAS) is a project of VUKA Group

The award-winning VUKA Group (www.WeareVuka.com) has officially launched the Carbon Markets Africa Summit (CMAS), a purpose-driven, high-level continental gathering that will take place from 21 to 23 October 2025 in Johannesburg. Designed as Africa’s flagship platform for carbon finance, CMAS brings together policymakers, investors, standards bodies, developers and corporates to drive practical, inclusive climate action and unlock Africa’s carbon value at scale.

Carbon markets are quickly becoming one of Africa’s most promising opportunities for climate finance and sustainable development. Yet the complexity of validation, verification, regulation and monetisation continues to challenge project developers, financiers and governments alike.

“This isn’t mining or retail. The returns, timelines and requirements are different,” says Olivia Tuchten, Principal Climate Change Advisor at Promethium Carbon. “There’s money to be made and good to be done – but only if stakeholders upskill and understand the process.”

CMAS is Africa’s response – a strategic event focused on building confidence, closing knowledge gaps and accelerating real transactions.

Strategic Moment: Africa’s Carbon Future and the Global Agenda

The timing of CMAS is particularly significant. With growing global momentum around carbon pricing and the operationalisation of Article 6, the outcomes of the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit in November are expected to influence the future architecture of global carbon markets.

As the G20 debates issues like carbon border adjustment mechanisms and international credit standards, Africa must be ready to respond with a united, informed voice. CMAS provides a platform for African stakeholders to strategically align, share technical insights, and sharpen positions – not only for G20, but also in preparation for COP30, where climate finance and carbon market governance will again take centre stage.

“We are in the right place and at the right time today to ensure that Africa benefits from carbon markets,” says Prof Anthony Nyong, Director of Climate Change and Green Growth at the African Development Bank.

A Unique Value Proposition: What Sets CMAS Apart

  • Pan-African Focus with Global Reach: Prioritising African leadership while connecting to international buyers, standards and financiers.
  • Ministerial Roundtable (21 October): A closed-door session convening African environment, climate and finance ministers to align policy priorities and amplify Africa’s voice at COP30 and G20.
  • Deal-Making Platforms: Investor roundtables, project showcases, deep-dive workshops and curated networking designed to convert conversations into transactions.
  • Integrity & Compliance: Navigate voluntary and compliance carbon markets with rigor, exploring Article 6, regional frameworks and global best practice.
  • Project Visibility: Spotlight on investable, Africa-based carbon projects with real climate and community impact.
  • Pre-COP30 Momentum: CMAS will help unify African market positions and technical readiness in the lead-up to multilateral climate finance negotiations.

Advisory Board: A Multi-Sectoral Powerhouse

To ensure CMAS reflects Africa’s diverse needs and opportunities in carbon markets, an influential advisory board has been convened, including:

  • Andrew Gilder – Director, Climate Legal, South Africa
  • Andrew Ocama – Eastern Africa Alliance on Carbon Markets and Climate Finance, Uganda
  • Bianca Gichangi – Regional Lead – Africa, VCMI, Kenya
  • Brett Stacey – Director, Carbon Zero Verification, United Kingdom
  • Dr Olufunso Somorin – Regional Principal Officer, AfDB, Kenya
  • Heather McEwan – Regional Representative, Verra, South Africa
  • Javier Mazanares – CEO, Allen Manza, Panama
  • Lawrence Cole-Morgan – Carbon Credit Trading Lead, Standard Bank, South Africa
  • Mathis Granjon – Trader, Green Steps, Netherlands
  • Maxime Bayen – Operating Partner, Catalyst Fund, Spain
  • Olivia Tuchten – Promethium Carbon, South Africa
  • Reshma Shah – Lead, Carbon Markets, FSD Africa, Kenya
  • Bernardin Uzayisaba, Carbon Market Programme Specialist, UNDP, South Africa
  • Ibrahim Shelleng, Senior Special Assistant to the President, Government of Nigeria

A Pathway to African Ownership

“Africa is still not maximising its potential. We need to do things differently,” says Olufunso Somorin, AfDB. “One of the challenges is that there are many good project developers who have very good ideas, but they don’t have the resource to jumpstart their idea into an investable project.” Somorin continues: “The AfDB has created the African Carbon Support Facility, and we are hoping to start off with a $100 million capitalisation.” Among the goals are supporting countries towards market-creating policy shifts, and the bulk of the funds will provide resources to project developers and assist in validation costs. “The AfDB wants to increase the number of African-owned, African-based and African-led project developments on the ground,” he adds.

According to Lawrence Cole-Morgan, Standard Bank, “the carbon markets provide Africa with the ability to monetise its significant carbon sequestration potential to fund socio-economic development and badly needed adaptation, while making a meaningful contribution to combatting climate change.” 

Meanwhile, Andrew Ocama, Eastern Africa Alliance on Carbon Markets and Climate Finance, is of the opinion that “each country is at a different level of readiness to actively participate in the carbon markets. To the seven Alliance countries, these markets are an important avenue for finance owing to their accountability and the measurability of their outcomes.” 

Event Details

21 October – Pre-Summit Day

  • Carbon 101 seminar
  • High-impact dialogue by the Global Trust Project

22–23 October – Main Summit

  • Plenaries
  • Ministerial Roundtable
  • Investor roundtables
  • Hands-on workshops
  • Sector-focused dialogues
  • Deal-making and networking

 

Location: Johannesburg, South Africa

Organised by VUKA Group

With more than 20 years of experience delivering high-impact B2B events across Africa, VUKA Group is the independent, B-BBEE-compliant force behind platforms like Africa’s Green Economy Summit, Enlit Africa, Smarter Mobility Africa, and DRC Mining Week.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Vuka Group.

Contact:
Tailor-made partnerships

Natalie Kruger
+66 (0) 65 614 8605
Natalie.kruger@wearevuka.com

Portfolio Director – Green Economy
Emmanuelle Nicholls
+27 (0) 83 447 8410
emmanuelle.nicholls@wearevuka.com

Website: www.CarbonMarketsAfrica.com  

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Nigeria Gears Up to Unveil Mining Potential at African Mining Week


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As Nigeria advances its mining ambitions through high-impact deals and project milestones, African Mining Week (AMW) – Africa’s premier mining gathering, taking place October 1–3, 2025, in Cape Town – will feature a dedicated session on the country. The session will showcase current projects and opportunities, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as an emerging mining hub.

Public and private stakeholders are working to harness Nigeria’s vast mineral wealth to diversify the economy and boost GDP. In April 2025, Nigeria signed a cooperation agreement (http://apo-opa.co/449iMLC) with South Africa – the continent’s leading mining nation – to promote investment, technology transfer and knowledge sharing. This partnership is expected to accelerate Nigeria’s mining growth by drawing on South Africa’s expertise and mature sector.

On the ground, Titan Minerals Limited (https://apo-opa.co/44872Zw) is leading exploration for phosphate in Sokoto, bitumen in Edo and Ondo and gold along the Schist Belt, while seeking partners to advance new gold, base metals and PGM deposits toward feasibility. Meanwhile, Thor Explorations (http://apo-opa.co/3TAhEvi) launched underground drilling at its Segilola Gold Mine – Nigeria’s first industrial gold operation – aiming to scale production to 85,000–95,000 ounces in 2025.

Additionally, Nigeria resumed gold, lithium and copper exploration in Zamfara in early 2025, underscoring its drive to attract fresh investment. The country’s mineral resources (http://apo-opa.co/4e6dpRM) include 42.5 billion tons of probable bitumen (sixth-largest globally), 10.6 billion tons of limestone, 2.75 billion tons of coal, over 3 billion tons of iron ore and 21.4 metric tons of gold – offering significant investor opportunities. Together, these resources position Nigeria as a potential mining powerhouse capable of driving industrialization, creating jobs and delivering long-term economic growth.

Against this backdrop, AMW 2025 provides an ideal platform for Nigeria to showcase its progress and engage investors to secure its role in Africa’s mining future. The event will not only highlight key projects, but also foster dialogue on policy, infrastructure and partnerships needed to unlock the sector’s full potential. With growing international interest, Nigeria is poised to position itself as a leading destination for sustainable mineral development.

African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

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

When Uber Is a ‘Predator’ and LinkedIn a ‘Species’: the 5M Framework Offers a New ‘Natural’ Lens for Antitrust Oversight

The BRICS Competition Law and Policy Centre (www.BRICSCompetition.org), in collaboration with mathematicians, programmers, ecologists and biologists from the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA, Vienna), has developed a systemic approach to deepen the understanding of how digital ecosystems function. The research group proposes applying mathematical models and biological theories from the natural sciences to describe processes in the digital economy. Their comprehensive approach to analysing and regulating ecosystems is built on analogies between natural and digital ecosystems—both are complex adaptive systems that share structural and functional characteristics. The results have been published in the interdisciplinary journal npj Complexity in the open-access article “An ecological perspective to master the complexities of the digital economy” (Elena Rovenskaya, Alexey Ivanov, Sarah Hathiari, Daria Kotova, Ursula M. Scharler, Gergely Boza) (www.nature.com) and in the Springer Nature Research Communities “Behind the Paper” post “Taming the Digital Giants: Why Regulators Need an Ecological Lens on Platform Power” (Elena Rovenskaya, Alexey Ivanov, Sarah Hathiari, Daria Kotova, Ursula M. Scharler, Gergely Boza) (www.communities.springernature.com).

The scientists formulated this idea as the 5M System (5M Framework), which describes the digital realm in ecological terms and draws analogies between natural and digital phenomena across five levels: Micro (“genes”) — elements of technology, knowledge, and business strategy (including user behaviour data); Meso (“species”) — products; Macro (“ecosystems”) — digital platform ecosystems; Mega (“biomes”) — wider societies hosting platform ecosystems; Meta — interactions among the four previous levels occur here.

For example, optimal foraging theory can explain why Uber avoids sparsely populated areas:  like an animal that leaves a food-poor patch because the energy gained per unit of search time is too low, Uber steers clear of rural zones where ride requests are infrequent, driver utilisation drops, and the “return” on each kilometre driven fails to justify the effort. The flexibility of digital-product boundaries is akin to the blurred definition of biological species, within which finer subspecies are often distinguished: LinkedIn can be viewed either as a Microsoft service or as a set of related products—job marketplace, professional social network, advertising platform, and so on.

Elena Rovenkaya, the IIASA Advancing Systems Analysis (ASA) Program Director and Principal Research Scholar:

“Digital ecosystems are an entirely new economic object, fundamentally different from the standard economic agents regulators are used to dealing with. The analogy we propose between natural and digital ecosystems will allow antitrust authorities to look at digital ecosystems from a new angle and obtain intuitive explanations for business strategies that often seem complex. Moreover, applying well-established mathematical and ecological approaches may be more effective than designing new methods from scratch.”

Aleksey Ivanov, Director of the BRICS Competition Law and Policy Centre:

“The published article is expected to be the first in a series of interdisciplinary publications devoted to new antitrust approaches for regulating the digital environment. In the AI sector and adjacent fields, the number of partnerships and investment agreements resembling mergers is growing, yet companies often evade antitrust scrutiny by sidestepping formal filing thresholds. A systemic-analysis response—particularly mathematical modelling and the systems-mapping method that the BRICS Centre is developing with partners—can depict a complex phenomenon in a model of all its cause-and-effect links. This will significantly accelerate research and make antitrust analysis more precise.”

In the future, the researchers also plan to create a digital tool using AI for BRICS antitrust coordination — the “Merger Radar.” This system will detect economic-concentration deals and shape preliminary positions on such transactions.

The article forms part of the BRICS Centre’s research track on the antitrust challenges created by digitalisation. The project was launched in 2018 to provide expert and methodological support to antitrust agencies in the BRICS Working Group for Research on Competition Issues in Digital Markets; in 2019 the Centre first highlighted the threats posed by digital platforms and the need for special oversight; from 2020 the Working Group shifted its focus to ecosystem regulation — today the most advanced debate in antitrust law. At the 7th BRICS Competition Conference (China, 2021) the Centre publicly presented the “eco-antitrust” concept; in 2022, in Brazil, it organised the first BRICS Digital Competition Forum, which has since been held annually. At the latest forum, in autumn 2024, representatives of Brazil’s antitrust authority CADE announced the drafting of a new bill to regulate ecosystems, which is now before the Brazilian parliament. The experts are currently analysing the impact of AI on competition and preparing a new report.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of BRICS Competition Law and Policy Centre.

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Seychelles Celebrates 32nd Constitution Day with Ceremonial Flag Hoisting Across Three Islands


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The Republic of Seychelles marked the 32nd anniversary of Constitution Day with dignified flag hoisting ceremonies held consecutively on Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. Leading the nation in this significant commemoration was President Wavel Ramkalawan, accompanied by First Lady Linda Ramkalawan, as Seychellois from across the archipelago reflected on the adoption of the Constitution of the Third Republic, a landmark moment in the country’s democratic evolution.

Constitution Day honours a pivotal chapter in Seychelles’ history, when the nation collectively embraced a constitution that charted a new democratic course. The document enshrines the fundamental rights to life, liberty, and dignity, while establishing the shared duty of all Seychellois to uphold these core principles.

This year’s official proceedings began with a march by the Guard of Honour, featuring distinguished units from the Seychelles Defence Forces, Police Force, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Special Operations Unit. The symbolic highlight was the hoisting of the National Flag, followed by a stirring performance of the National Anthem—a moment that echoed the solemn pride of the occasion.

The Seychelles National Flag, with its five striking oblique bands radiating from the base, captures the nation’s dynamic spirit and progressive vision. Each colour holds deep meaning: blue for the ocean and sky, yellow for the sun as the source of life, red for the unity and passion of the people, white for peace and social justice, and green for the natural environment that sustains the islands.

The programme also featured cultural performances by youth, celebrating Seychellois heritage and patriotism. Readings from the Constitution underscored the enduring relevance of the nation’s legal framework, while patriotic songs performed by young talents from each island added a vibrant cultural dimension to the day’s events.

Among the attendees were Vice-President Ahmed Afif, the Cabinet of Ministers, numerous high-level government officials, and other distinguished guests.

The 32nd Constitution Day celebrations successfully united citizens across the islands in a shared reflection on the values, rights, and responsibilities that form the bedrock of Seychelles’ democratic society. The annual observance continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the nation’s constitutional journey, and reaffirms the collective commitment to building a prosperous, inclusive, and harmonious future.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and Foreign Service Institute (FSI) Sign Landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)


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The Gabriel L. Dennis Foreign Service Institute (FSI) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Liberia, in partnership with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), have formally entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance diplomatic training and institutional collaboration. The signing ceremony was held at UNITAR Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, May 13, 2025. The agreement was signed by Amb. Reginald B. Goodridge, Sr. Director General of the Foreign Service Institute, and Ms. Michelle Gyles-McDonnough, United Nations Assistant Secretary General and Executive Director of UNITAR.

In his remarks, Director General Goodridge highlighted the mission of the FSI and outlined several flagship programs of the Institute, including: The foundational academic curriculum for prospective diplomats; A 6-week refresher program for foreign service officers and newly appointed ambassadors designated by the President of Liberia; The 10-month All-Female Diplomatic Training Program, the first of its kind in Africa, aimed at promoting women’s leadership in diplomacy. Director General Goodridge further noted that the dialogue leading to this partnership between the FSI and UNITAR was initiated by Mr. Charles Allen, whose efforts were instrumental in establishing this collaboration. He also shared that he is reviewing a number of agreements signed by his predecessors—including those with Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Cameroon, Morocco, Guinea and Egypt—with a view to developing a distinctly African framework for diplomacy rooted in inter-African cooperation.

Speaking on behalf of UNITAR, Ms. Michelle Gyles-McDonnough, Assistant UN Secretary General and Executive Director of UNITAR, welcomed the partnership and reaffirmed UNITAR’s commitment to a robust and impactful collaboration with the FSI, particularly in co-developing relevant and responsive foreign service training programs tailored to Liberia’s needs. Mr. Philippe Aubert, Senior Program Specialist in the Division for Multilateral Diplomacy, presented an overview of UNITAR’s offerings, including: An 18-month Master’s Program delivered in hybrid and online formats for diplomats; Targeted training linked to the national priorities of host countries; and Various fellowship opportunities, some open to all applicants and others coordinated with academic institutions. He also highlighted UNITAR’s long-standing relationships with countries such as Qatar and Saudi Arabia, and mentioned Qatar’s recent proposal to establish a UNITAR Academy. Also forming part of the Liberian delegation were Permanent Representative (Amb.) Paul Wolokollie Tate and Counselor Abraham Kamara, representatives of the Permanent Mission of Liberia to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Geneva. This landmark MOU represents a critical step forward in enhancing the professional development of Liberian diplomats and reaffirms Liberia’s commitment to global standards in foreign service training and diplomacy.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Liberia.

CityBlue Hotels opens its first Beach Property in Kenya – Kilua Residences by CityBlue, Marking Second Property in Mombasa and Expanding Coastal Presence

CityBlue Hotels (www.CityBlueHotels.com), Africa’s fastest-growing local hotel chain, today announced the unveiling of Kilua Residences by CityBlue in Mombasa, Kenya. This significant milestone marks CityBlue Hotels’ second property in the vibrant coastal city, further solidifying its commitment to expanding its footprint in key East African destinations and offering diverse accommodation options to travelers.

The opening of Kilua Residences by CityBlue, nestled along the pristine shores of Shanzu, offers an exquisite blend of luxury and comfort for both short- and long-term stays. This 4-star beachfront aparthotel features elegantly furnished 1 and 2-bedroom apartments, designed to provide guests with a serene and upscale coastal retreat. Each residence is meticulously crafted to international standards, ensuring a premium living experience.

Guests at Kilua Residences by CityBlue will have access to an extensive array of world-class amenities, including a sparkling outdoor swimming pool, a rejuvenating full-service spa, a state-of-the-art gym, and a dedicated playground for families. The property boasts stunning sea views and a tranquil terrace, perfect for unwinding. With its prime location, Kilua Residences by CityBlue offers convenient access to Mombasa’s popular attractions, making it an ideal choice for leisure and business travelers seeking an unforgettable stay.

“The announcement of Kilua Residences by CityBlue marks a proud moment for us, further strengthening our presence in the dynamic city of Mombasa,” said Jameel Verjee, CEO of CityBlue Hotels. “Following the success of CityBlue Creekside Hotel & Suites, our first property in Mombasa, Kilua Residences represents our continued commitment to providing diverse and high-quality accommodation options in key African markets. This new property embodies our dedication to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences, combining luxurious living with the unparalleled beauty of Kenya’s coast.”

“We are incredibly proud to see Kilua Residences by CityBlue come to fruition, a project that embodies our commitment to developing high-quality, desirable properties in prime locations,” said Samir Shahbal, Director of Gulf Homes Management Limited. “Our partnership with CityBlue Hotels has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life, combining our development expertise with their renowned hospitality management. Kilua Residences by CityBlue offers a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience, and we are confident it will become a cherished destination for residents and visitors alike in Mombasa.”

CityBlue Creekside Hotel & Suites, located on the tidal Tudor creek, has been a cornerstone of CityBlue Hotels’ operations in Mombasa since its opening in December 2017. With 100 rooms and suites, a bar, restaurant, fitness center, and pool, it has consistently provided a superior experience for guests. The addition of Kilua Residences by CityBlue, with its focus on serviced apartments and beachfront living, complements CityBlue Hotels’ existing offerings, catering to a broader range of traveler preferences and solidifying its position as a leading hospitality provider in Mombasa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CityBlue Hotels.

About CityBlue Hotels:
CityBlue Hotels is Africa’s fastest-growing customer-centric hotel chain, renowned for its commitment to providing world-class hospitality across Eastern and Southern Africa’s major cities. With a focus on seamless, tech-supported experiences, CityBlue Hotels aims to redefine comfort and convenience for business and leisure travelers alike. The brand is dedicated to expanding its footprint and diversifying its offerings to meet the evolving demands of the African hospitality market.

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Liberia to Host Major Trade and Investment Conference in Monrovia


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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the National Investment Commission (NIC) and the Liberia Chamber of Commerce (LCC), is proud to announce the upcoming Liberia Trade and Investment Conference under the theme “Bridge to Prosperity.” Scheduled to take place from June 17 to 21, 2025 in Monrovia, the five-day event will bring together a delegation of prominent U.S. investors and business leaders to explore trade and investment opportunities across Liberia’s key economic sectors. This flagship initiative is a hallmark of the Ministry’s economic diplomacy agenda, under the leadership of H.E. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, and is closely aligned with the Trump Administration’s renewed commercial diplomacy efforts in Africa. The five-day conference will welcome a delegation of prominent U.S. investors and business leaders, targeting companies with interest in key sectors across Liberia’s economy.

A special reception will be hosted in their honor by the U.S. Ambassador to Liberia, underscoring the significance of this bilateral investment initiative. As part of the U.S. business delegation’s visit, participating companies will engage in sector specific site visits, project briefings, and one-on-one meetings with public and private sector leaders. The event will feature a dynamic lineup of panel discussions, business-to-business networking sessions, site visits, and government briefings, all designed to provide U.S. investors with comprehensive insights into Liberia’s economic potential and investment friendly climate. This conference underscores Liberia’s commitment to expanding its economic frontiers by leveraging international partnerships to drive sustainable development, job creation, and infrastructure growth. Key sectors to be showcased include agriculture, energy, infrastructure, tourism, mining, and digital economy, among others.

The “Bridge to Prosperity” conference is also a strategic pillar of the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), Liberia’s national development framework. The event underscores the government’s commitment to mobilizing international investment as a means to accelerate job creation, infrastructure development, and economic transformation. Participants will include senior government officials, international development partners, private sector leaders, U.S. trade delegations, and representatives from multilateral institutions. The event aims to generate concrete commitments that will translate into job creation, technology transfer, and inclusive development. With this initiative, Liberia continues to chart a forward looking path in economic diplomacy, positioning itself as a gateway for U.S. investors into West Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Liberia.

Safe spaces transform lives of displaced women in war torn Sudan


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Since the outbreak of conflict on 15 April 2023, Sudan has witnessed one of the world’s fastest-growing displacement crises. Over 12 million people have been forced to flee their homes as of 16 June 2025, including more than 2 million women and girls, many of whom are now living in overcrowded shelters or with host communities across the country. In Gadaref State, hundreds of thousands have sought refuge, placing immense pressure on services and resources—particularly for women facing heightened protection risks.

When the war broke out, 35-year-old Marwa—­­­not her real name—left Khartoum to seek refuge and safety. Like ­many internally displaced persons (IDPs), she found herself in Hay Al-Malik, a densely populated neighborhood in the heart of Gadaref State, sheltering thousands of displaced people by the ongoing conflict. Here, IDPs and host community members live side-by-side, often sharing houses due to soaring rents and limited resources.

Marwa’s early days were marked by intense psychological stress. Living ­­­­­with more than ten people in a small house without privacy, especially for women, left her feeling isolated and overwhelmed. Cultural differences deepened her sense of displacement, and she struggled to adapt. “I rarely left the house or spoke to other women,” she shared. “I didn’t know how to adjust or where to turn.”

A turning point came when Marwa heard about a new women’s safe space established by Hope and Friendship for Development Organization (HOPE), in partnership with UN Women, and supported by the Government of Japan. Encouraged by outreach efforts in the community, she visited the Al-Malik Safe Space and immediately felt a sense of belonging. It was a space created by and for women—a place to talk, share, heal, and grow.

With each visit, Marwa’s confidence grew. She joined a life skills training and received psychosocial support that helped her regain emotional balance. She also participated in awareness sessions on harmful traditional practices, gaining tools to inform and uplift others. Over time, she became actively involved in managing activities alongside social workers, transforming herself from a participant into a leader.

“From the first day, I felt that this space belonged to us,” she said. “It’s our duty to protect it and keep it going.”

Now, Marwa supports other displaced women and girls in accessing the safe space and envisions expanding it further. She emphasizes the need to include children, especially those with special needs, in future programming. She also expresses a strong desire to help sustain the space beyond the program’s timeline, working with other women to preserve what they’ve built together.

Marwa’s story illustrates how access to a safe, inclusive space—combined with psychosocial and life skills support—can plant the seeds for long-term empowerment and resilience. With continued support from the Government of Japan and implementing partners, women like Marwa are not only rebuilding their own lives but helping others do the same.

*Marwa’s name has been changed to protect her privacy

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN Women – Africa.