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Infobip dévoile Conversational Experience Orchestration Platform (CXOP) : la nouvelle génération des conversations client propulsées par Intelligence Artificielle (IA)


Infobip (www.Infobip.com), leader mondial des communications cloud, annonce le lancement de sa Conversational Experience Orchestration Platform (CXOP), une solution de rupture qui place l’intelligence artificielle agentique au centre de toutes les interactions client. Avec CXOP, les marques ne sont plus limitées par des processus figés et préprogrammés : elles peuvent désormais instaurer des conversations dynamiques, orientées vers des objectifs précis, que ce soit en marketing, en vente ou en service client – et ce, à grande échelle. Ce lancement s’inscrit dans la continuité de l’AI Hub d’Infobip, en marquant une étape stratégique : l’intégration native de l’IA agentique à l’ensemble de son écosystème technologique primé, pour réunir, au sein d’une plateforme unique, canaux, données et automatisation intelligente.

Reposant sur Microsoft Azure OpenAI et les modèles Foundry, CXOP active des agents intelligents capables d’orchestrer des parcours clients personnalisés via des canaux comme WhatsApp, RCS ou les chats web. Ces agents comprennent le contexte, agissent de façon autonome, et collaborent naturellement avec les équipes humaines lorsque la situation l’exige — ce qui permet de réduire considérablement les délais de traitement, d’améliorer la fidélisation, tout en maîtrisant les coûts.

À une époque où les consommateurs exigent des échanges immédiats, pertinents et homogènes quel que soit le canal, CXOP apporte une réponse concrète. Elle réunit messagerie, automatisation et assistance intelligente dans une plateforme unique, conçue pour s’adapter en temps réel aux comportements, aux intentions et aux émotions des utilisateurs.

Grâce à CXOP, les entreprises sont désormais en mesure de :

  • Déployer des interactions empathiques, pilotées par des objectifs, sur tous les canaux de communication
  • Réduire les délais de réponse et les coûts liés au service client grâce à l’automatisation
  • Améliorer la conversion des prospects et la performance des campagnes grâce à une personnalisation en temps réel
  • Accompagner les équipes hybrides avec des logiques “human-in-the-loop” adaptées aux cas les plus complexes
  • Lancer rapidement leurs expériences conversationnelles, qu’elles optent pour une mise en œuvre sans code ou avec un développement sur-mesure

Le cœur de CXOP repose sur un réseau d’assistants intelligents dotés d’IA agentique, capables de comprendre les intentions des utilisateurs et d’exécuter des processus contextualisés. Bien plus que de simples bots, ces agents guident, résolvent et agissent, offrant des expériences fluides, naturelles et continues – depuis la génération de leads jusqu’à la fidélisation des clients.

« CXOP permet aux entreprises de dépasser les limites des workflows statiques pour offrir des interactions intelligentes, empathiques et évolutives », affirme Ivan Ostojić, Chief Business Officer chez Infobip. « C’est une avancée essentielle vers des expériences client fondées sur l’intelligence artificielle, capables de générer un véritable impact mesurable pour les entreprises. »

« En remplaçant les automatisations classiques basées sur des règles par l’intelligence agentique, la nouvelle plateforme CXOP d’Infobip représente une réelle avancée dans la gestion de l’expérience client », souligne Myladie Stoumbou, Directrice Senior des partenariats ISV chez Microsoft. « Disponible sur la marketplace Microsoft Azure, cette solution certifiée permet aux clients d’y accéder facilement tout en simplifiant la gestion des fournisseurs. »

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)

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Infobip Unveils Conversational Experience Orchestration Platform (CXOP): The Next Generation of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Powered Customer Conversations


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Global cloud communications platform Infobip (www.Infobip.com) today announced its Conversational Experience Orchestration Platform (CXOP) — a game-changing solution that places agentic AI at the heart of every customer interaction. CXOP enables brands to move beyond static, rules-based workflows to deliver dynamic, goal-oriented conversations across marketing, sales, and support — at scale. The announcement builds on Infobip’s AI Hub, marking a major step forward by natively infusing agentic AI across Infobip’s entire award-winning product stack — unifying channels, data, and automation into a single intelligent platform.

Built on Microsoft Azure OpenAI in Foundry Models, CXOP uses intelligent AI agents to orchestrate personalized customer journeys across channels like WhatsApp, RCS, and web chat. These agents understand context, act autonomously, and seamlessly collaborate with human teams when needed — reducing time to resolution, improving loyalty, and cutting costs.

Today’s consumers expect instant, relevant, and seamless interactions no matter what the channel. CXOP meets this demand by unifying messaging, automation, and AI-powered assistance within a single, intelligent platform that adapts to behavior, sentiment, and intent in real time.

With CXOP, businesses can:

  • Deliver empathetic, goal-driven AI interactions across channels
  • Slash response times and reduce service costs through automation
  • Increase lead conversion and campaign performance with real-time personalization
  • Support hybrid teams with human-in-the-loop for complex cases
  • Launch fast with no-code or full-code deployment options

At its core, CXOP leverages a network of intelligent, agentic AI assistants that understand user intent and execute context-sensitive workflows. These agents don’t just answer — they guide, solve, and act, creating fluid, human-like experiences from lead generation to retention.

“CXOP enables enterprises to move beyond static workflows and deliver intelligent, empathetic interactions at scale,” said Ivan Ostojić, Chief Business Officer at Infobip. “It’s a foundational step toward building AI-first customer experiences that drive measurable business impact.”

“Using agentic AI instead of a rules-based automation, Infobip’s new CXOP is an enhancement for customer experiences,” said Myladie Stoumbou, Sr Director ISV Partnerships, at Microsoft. “Available within the Microsoft Azure Marketplace, clients can access such certified products and eliminate the complexity of managing individual vendor relationships.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Infobip.

For more information, contact:

Marcelo Nahime  


marcelo.nahime@infobip.com   

Bojana Mandić 
Bojana.Mandic1@infobip.com

About Infobip:
Infobip is a global cloud communications platform that enables businesses to build connected experiences across all stages of the customer journey. Accessed through a single platform, Infobip’s omnichannel engagement, identity, user authentication and contact centre solutions help businesses and partners overcome the complexity of consumer communications to grow business and increase loyalty. It offers natively built technology with the capacity to reach over seven billion mobile devices and ‘things’ in 6 continents connected to over 9,700+ connections of which 800+ are direct operator connections. Infobip was established in 2006 and is led by its co-founders, CEO Silvio Kutić, Roberto Kutić and Izabel Jelenić.

Recent award wins include:

  • Infobip ranked as Leader in the Omdia CPaaS Universe Report for the third time (April 2025)
  • Infobip ranked an Established Leader in the Juniper Research Conversational AI Leaderboard (Feb 2025)
  • Infobip named a CPaaS Leader for the third time in the IDC MarketScape (Feb 2025)
  • Infobip named one of the top CPaaS providers in Metrigy’s CPaaS MetriRank Report (Dec 2024)
  • Infobip named number one among Established Leaders in RCS Business Messaging in Juniper Research’s RCS Business Messaging Competitor Leaderboard 2024 (Nov 2024)
  • Infobip recognized as the number one provider in the AIT Fraud Prevention market by Juniper Research (Oct 2024)
  • Infobip named a Leader in the Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS) 2024 for the second year running (June 2024)
  • Infobip named to Fast Company’s Annual List of the World’s Most Innovative Companies (March 2024)

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Long awaited judicial review begins in Gogrial East, with support from United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS)


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Women and men in chains approach an improvised justice bench next to the main prison in Lietnhom, the county headquarters of Gogrial East, Warrap. Exhaustion is writ large on their faces. These prisoners have waited a long time for their time in court. Many of them don’t even know why they have been detained.

“I really don’t know my offense. I don’t know my crime. I was taken from the court side, placed in a container and suddenly I ended up in prison,” one of them shares.

Another case involves a young woman who found herself imprisoned on charges of adultery—a charge often misused against women—after a tragic incident involving her stepfather and deceased daughter.

These anecdotes are a stark reminder that in South Sudan, access to justice cannot be taken for granted.

In Lietnhom, with no resident judge for some five years, customary courts, typically limited to civil disputes, have been handling criminal cases beyond their jurisdiction. This resulted in unjust imprisonment, inadequate judicial procedures, and significant distress for inmates, particularly women and young girls.

However, this week, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), through its Rule of Law section brought much-needed hope to communities living here by facilitating a two-week case review in collaboration with a judge, public prosecutor and defender sent by the Kuajok High Court to facilitate appropriate court hearings.

“This judicial vacuum must be addressed immediately,” Judge George Michael explained, while beginning to review cases that had gone unheard for months or even years.

On the first day, a woman detained for refusing a forced marriage burst into tears as her release was announced. “Today I finally feel my opinion matters,” she said. Her relief was palpable.

Another compelling moment was when the judge addressed the court while reviewing the case of a teenage girl jailed for choosing a different religion. “We fought for our independence from Sudan to uphold our freedom of beliefs and rights. How can we imprison our own children for exercising these same freedoms?” he questioned.

Within two days, substantial progress was made. “We found that many people were imprisoned without proper documentation or sufficient evidence,” noted Deng Kuol, the prison director.

Out of 77 cases reviewed, 41 individuals were immediately freed, significantly reducing prison overcrowding and arbitrary detention. Only nine inmates remained for further legal proceedings.

“Seeing wrongfully incarcerated people walk free with happiness is one of the most rewarding parts of our work,” smiles Lena Ellen Becker, a Justice Advisor with the UN Peacekeeping mission.

“Don’t be surprised if overcrowding returns in weeks because of the absence of the permanent prosecutors or judges,” cautions Mr Kuol, however.

While these initial sessions reveal deeper systemic issues, such as wrongful imprisonment, arbitrary arrests, and procedural negligence, the beginning of a comprehensive effort toward justice reform in Gogrial East is praiseworthy.

Moving forward, detailed reviews and additional judicial support will continue.

“Our roles need clarity, procedures must improve, and we must protect the vulnerable, especially women and girls,” stated Ayen Deng, a traditional leader working with the customary court.

Despite these early victories, challenges remain.

The woman released from prison faced immediate pressure from her family. They refused to return the cattle received as dowry and insisted she must either marry the man she had originally refused or face imprisonment again. “This shows us that some issues go beyond our courts,” explained a UNMISS officer. “Cultural practices and social pressures require a collective change in mindsets and strong government interventions to ensure true justice and freedom for all.”

As Judge Michael poignantly reminded the gathering, “Justice delayed is justice denied,” pointing out the urgent need for continued commitment to human rights, fairness, and societal transformation across this young nation.

While this UNMISS facilitated case review may only be a temporary solution at this point, its success sets the stage for future replications and long-term investments at the state level. Achieving lasting justice in Lietnhom and beyond will ultimately depend on sustained and collective efforts at every level.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

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Foot-and-mouth disease detected in the North West

Source: South Africa News Agency

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has confirmed an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, specifically within the JB Marks Local Municipality.

In the first case, the department was alerted by a private veterinarian, who visited a farm and noted suspicious signs. 

A State veterinarian then collected samples, which were sent to the Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute (OVI) for testing.

Another incident of FMD was detected at an abattoir in Madibeng.

“The clinical signs of the affected  animals were missed at ante-mortem inspection but were detected on the slaughter line during the meat inspection process. 

“Tissue samples were sent to the laboratory, and the results came back confirming both SAT 2 and SAT 3 types of the virus. 

“The unslaughtered animals were escorted back to the farm of origin, a feedlot in Ventersdorp, through a Red Cross permit,” the statement read. 

The department has placed both farms associated with the outbreak under quarantine, which prohibits the movement of animals and animal products. 

In addition, the department has identified all farms connected to the Gauteng outbreak and is conducting tests to determine whether any of them are positive for the infection.

“All such farms have also been put under precautionary quarantine until the test results are back.” 

The department stated that any suspected case of FMD in susceptible animals must be reported to the local state veterinarian immediately.

FMD is a highly contagious viral infection that affects cloven-hoofed animals and can impact some other species as well. 

The main clinical signs of the disease include fever, lameness, and the appearance of blisters and sores in the mouth, feet, and teats.

In recent months, outbreaks have occurred in five of the nine provinces in South Africa, with KwaZulu-Natal experiencing the most significant impact.

Early this month, Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, announced that the department has ordered 901 200 doses of vaccines at a value of over R70 million. 

The national department said this means that over 900 000 animals will be vaccinated in all areas that the department has prioritised.

The department stated that Limpopo and Mpumalanga will also conduct their routine vaccinations, which are conducted three times a year, with some of the vaccines going to Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. 

Meanwhile, last week, Cabinet announced plans to establish a biosecurity council that will bring together the South African Police Service, veterinarians, scientists, the Border Management Authority (BMA) and captains of industry to better respond to future outbreaks and manage the related risks. 

READ | Government on top off foot-and-mouth disease response. – SAnews.gov.za

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12 die in KZN accident

Source: South Africa News Agency

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Twelve people have died, with 38 others sustaining injuries in a head-on collision between a bus and truck on the R34 Matatani road between Vryheid and Ulundi in KwaZulu-Natal at around midnight. 

“KwaZulu Private Ambulance Service paramedics responded to the scene, where they provided immediate medical attention to the victims. Of the injured, 10 patients sustained critical injuries, 22 suffered serious injuries, and six sustained minor injuries,” Arrive Alive said on Monday.

A multi-service emergency response team worked to stabilise all patients before transporting them to nearby medical facilities for further treatment.

Nine occupants were declared dead at the scene, having sustained fatal injuries before emergency services arrived. Three critically injured patients later died in the hospital, despite intensive efforts by paramedics and medical staff.

The cause of the collision is under investigation. – SAnews.gov.za

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Equatorial Guinea’s Golden Swan Sets Regional Benchmark for Greener Oil and Gas Practices


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The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (www.EnergyChamber.org) proudly supports the recent visit of Gabonese President Brice Oligui Nguema to Equatorial Guinea’s Golden Swan industrial complex, marking a defining moment for Africa’s oil and gas sector. As the continent intensifies efforts to industrialize responsibly, Golden Swan – and Equatorial Guinea, under the leadership of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, whose commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship has been instrumental – is demonstrating that environmental protection and energy development can and must go hand in hand.

During the visit, President Oligui Nguema and his delegation witnessed first-hand how Equatorial Guinea has achieved self-sufficiency in treating industrial and hazardous waste. Golden Swan’s advanced infrastructure includes industrial incinerators, a wastewater treatment plant, a medical waste processing unit and recycling systems for waste oil, plastics, batteries and metals. Presentations showcased the company’s household waste system, which reduces landfill use by up to 90% through sorting and recycling, and its production of critical industrial gases like medical oxygen and nitrogen.

The Golden Swan model directly addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing Africa’s hydrocarbons sector: the management of hazardous and industrial waste generated by upstream and downstream operations. By achieving self-sufficiency in this area, Equatorial Guinea not only protects its ecosystems and communities, but also strengthens its position as a responsible, forward-looking energy producer. The AEC believes that facilities like Golden Swan can serve as blueprints for governments and companies aiming to build energy industries that are both profitable and sustainable.

The visit also sets the stage for tangible collaboration between Gabon and Equatorial Guinea, beyond high-level dialogue. Opportunities now exist for technical cooperation, joint ventures and knowledge sharing that could see similar waste management infrastructure developed across the region. The Chamber encourages both governments to formalize this cooperation and take decisive steps to turn this vision into reality.

“This is a defining example of how African oil and gas producers can lead on environmental issues rather than follow,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “Golden Swan shows what is possible when governments and industry come together with a clear purpose. It sets the bar higher, and it invites others on the continent to match or exceed that standard. This is good for our industry, good for our people, and good for Africa’s future.”

Golden Swan’s success underscores a broader truth: Africa’s energy sector can drive industrialization while respecting the environment. As more nations follow this path, the continent will be better positioned to attract investment, create jobs and ensure long-term sustainability. The AEC welcomes this milestone and encourages all oil and gas stakeholders to build on Golden Swan’s example by innovating, collaborating and driving Africa’s growth while protecting its natural heritage.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Faim : Gaza, Haïti, Soudan, Soudan du Sud, et Mali placés en alerte maximale


Gaza, Haïti, le Soudan, le Soudan du Sud, et le Mali font désormais partie des zones en alerte maximale, où le risque d’insécurité alimentaire pour ses populations est le plus préoccupant et nécessitent une attention « urgente » de la communauté internationale, a mis en garde l’ONU lundi.

À moins d’une réponse d’aide urgente et à grande échelle, les populations de ces cinq points chauds seront confrontées à une faim extrême et à un risque de famine et de mort dans les mois à venir, indiquent l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour l’alimentation et l’agriculture (FAO) et le Programme alimentaire mondial (PAM) dans un rapport commun.

« Ce rapport est une alerte rouge. Nous savons où la faim augmente et qui est en danger », affirme la Directrice exécutive du Programme alimentaire mondial, Cindy McCain.

Les crises dévastatrices sont exacerbées par des contraintes d’accès croissantes et des déficits de financement critiques.

Gaza et Soudan, points chauds préoccupants

Au Soudan, la famine a été confirmée depuis 2024. Selon l’ONU, la situation devrait perdurer en raison de la poursuite du conflit et des déplacements de population, en particulier dans les régions du Grand Kordofan et du Grand Darfour.

Environ 24,6 millions de personnes devraient être confrontées à des niveaux de crise ou pire d’insécurité alimentaire aiguë, dont 637.000 personnes confrontées à un niveau catastrophique jusqu’en mai 2025.

À Gaza, la probabilité d’une famine s’accroît à mesure que les opérations militaires à grande échelle entravent la capacité d’acheminer l’aide humanitaire vitale, alimentaire et non alimentaire.

L’ensemble de la population de l’enclave palestinienne – 2,1 millions de personnes – devrait être confrontée à des niveaux de crise ou pire d’insécurité alimentaire aiguë, et 470.000 personnes devraient être confrontées à une situation catastrophique jusqu’en septembre 2025.

Niveaux catastrophiques en Haïti

Au Soudan du Sud, le risque de famine dans deux régions du pays confirme de « sombres perspectives » pour ce pays d’Afrique de l’Est.

Environ 7,7 millions de personnes – soit 57 % de la population – devraient être confrontées à des niveaux élevés d’insécurité alimentaire aiguë entre avril et juillet 2025, et 63.000 personnes devraient être confrontées à des niveaux catastrophiques d’insécurité alimentaire aiguë.

En Haïti, les niveaux records de violence des gangs et d’insécurité déplacent les communautés et paralysent l’accès à l’aide. Plus de 8.400 personnes déplacées à l’intérieur du pays sont déjà confrontées à des niveaux catastrophiques d’insécurité alimentaire aiguë dans la région métropolitaine de Port-au-Prince d’ici juin 2025.

Inquiétudes au Mali

Pendant ce temps, au Mali, les prix élevés des céréales et le conflit en cours érodent les capacités d’adaptation des ménages les plus vulnérables, en particulier dans les zones touchées par le conflit. Environ 2.600 personnes risquent de se retrouver dans une situation d’insécurité alimentaire catastrophique entre juin et août 2025 si l’aide n’est pas fournie à temps.

Outre les points chauds les plus préoccupants, le Yémen, la République démocratique du Congo, le Myanmar et le Nigéria sont désormais des points chauds très préoccupants et requièrent une attention urgente pour sauver des vies et des moyens de subsistance. Les autres points chauds sont le Burkina Faso, le Tchad, la Somalie et la Syrie.

« Ce rapport le montre clairement : la faim aujourd’hui n’est pas une menace lointaine – c’est une urgence quotidienne pour des millions de personnes », souligne le  Directeur général de la FAO, Qu Dongyu. 

« Nous devons agir maintenant, et agir ensemble, pour sauver des vies et préserver les moyens d’existence ».

Des progrès malgré les coupes budgétaires

En revanche, l’Éthiopie, le Kenya, le Liban, le Lesotho, le Malawi, le Mozambique, la Namibie, le Niger, la Zambie et le Zimbabwe ont été retirés de la liste des points chauds de la faim.

En Afrique de l’Est et en Afrique australe, ainsi qu’au Niger, l’amélioration des conditions climatiques pour les récoltes et la diminution des phénomènes météorologiques extrêmes ont atténué les pressions sur la sécurité alimentaire. Le Liban a également été retiré de la liste suite à la réduction de l’intensité des opérations militaires.

Cette détérioration de l’insécurité alimentaire dans plusieurs régions du monde survient alors que les graves déficits de financement obligent à réduire les rations alimentaires, ce qui limite la portée des interventions vitales en matière de nutrition et d’agriculture.

« Nous disposons des outils et de l’expérience nécessaires pour réagir, mais sans financement et sans accès, nous ne pouvons pas sauver des vies. Un investissement urgent et soutenu dans l’aide alimentaire et le soutien au redressement est crucial car la fenêtre pour éviter une nouvelle famine dévastatrice se referme rapidement », a insisté Mme McCain.

Distribué par APO Group pour UN News.

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Trident Energy Steps Up Regional Activity with Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to Speak at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025

Jean-Michel Jacoulot, CEO of Trident Energy, has been confirmed to speak at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025: Invest in African Energies, taking place in Cape Town from September 29-October 3. Amid a period of dynamic expansion and production growth, Trident Energy continues to strengthen its position as a leading independent operator in Africa, with recent milestones in the Republic of Congo and Equatorial Guinea.

The company recently reinforced its position as a leading independent player with major upstream acquisitions in the Republic of Congo. In 2024, Trident acquired a 31.5% non-operating stake in the Moho-Bilondo, Nkossa and Nsoko II fields from Chevron, alongside a 15.75% operating interest in the Lianzi field. This was followed by the acquisition of an additional 53.5% working interest in the Nkossa and Nsoko II fields from TotalEnergies, bringing Trident’s total stake to 85% and securing operatorship.

These developments mark a turning point for Congo’s offshore sector. With operatorship now in hand, Trident has committed to ramping up production, optimizing existing infrastructure and driving reinvestment into these critical assets. The company is also advancing the Nkossa Gas Project – a major initiative centered on substantial gas potential to be monetized via FLNG – while actively assessing additional opportunities and partnerships that support its long-term growth strategy in the country.

“Trident Energy is making bold moves that show what is possible when experienced leadership and technical expertise meet Africa’s energy potential,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “Their expansion in Congo is exactly the kind of strategic investment African markets need, and we look forward to hearing Jean-Michel Jacoulot’s vision at AEW 2025.”

In Equatorial Guinea, Trident continues to deliver on its commitment to enhance long-term production. In late 2024, the company brought online the C-45 infill well at the Ceiba Field and Okume Complex – a milestone in its multi-phase development plan for offshore Block G. The next phase involves drilling the Akeng Deep ILX well in Block S, which is currently underway, with further discoveries targeted over the next three years. Trident is also making significant investments to reduce gas flaring in the country and is exploring additional prospects, including potential opportunities extending from Angola along the West African coast.

AEW 2025 will serve as the premier platform for African and international stakeholders to connect, forge new deals and accelerate the continent’s energy future. As Trident Energy expands its footprint across West and Central Africa, Jacoulot’s participation will shed light on how upstream independents are driving value, resilience and growth in African oil and gas markets.

AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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CityBlue Hotels Announces Le Mirage Residences by CityBlue, The Tallest Branded Residences in Kenya

CityBlue Hotels, Africa’s fastest-growing local hotel chain, and SMB Properties, a leading property developer in Kenya, today announced a strategic partnership to launch the 256-unit Le Mirage Residences by CityBlue. This landmark collaboration will introduce a new paradigm of upscale residential living in Nairobi, with Le Mirage Residences by CityBlue poised to become one of Kenya’s tallest and most iconic towers.

The announcement, made at the prestigious Future Hospitality Summit Africa in Cape Town, marks a significant milestone for both entities and for Kenya’s real estate market. Le Mirage Residences by CityBlue will offer an unparalleled living experience, combining SMB Properties’ expertise in crafting exquisite residential spaces with CityBlue Hotels’ renowned hospitality management.

Le Mirage Residences by CityBlue, located in the prime Westlands area of Nairobi, is designed to cater to the discerning tastes of high-net-worth individuals and expatriates seeking premium living. The development will feature luxurious 1, 2, 3, and 4-bedroom apartments, complemented by an extensive array of 22+ world-class amenities.

These include over 52,000 sq. ft. of space dedicated to wellness, lifestyle, and recreational amenities. From Kenya’s highest rooftop infinity pool to a full-service spa, fully equipped gym, squash and pickleball courts, private cinema lounges, and dedicated children’s play areas, creating a vertical city concept that redefines urban luxury.

As Kenya is emerging as a prime investment destination in Africa, Le Mirage Residences by CityBlue presents a unique opportunity for investors to be part of this growth. With projected capital appreciation of up to 30% in 3 years after completion and ROI of up to 23%, the development combines lifestyle with long-term financial returns.

“This partnership demonstrates commitment to a relentless quest for footprint in key African markets and diversifying our offerings beyond traditional hotels,” said Jameel Verjee, CEO of CityBlue Hotels.

“Nairobi’s dynamic real estate landscape presents a unique opportunity to blend our expertise in hospitality with SMB Properties’ vision for luxury residential development. Le Mirage Residences by CityBlue will deliver the signature CityBlue experience, ensuring comfort, convenience, and unparalleled service for our residents.”

Taher Saleh, Managing Director of SMB Properties added, “Le Mirage Residences by CityBlue represents the pinnacle of luxury and architectural innovation in Kenya. We are proud to collaborate with CityBlue Hotels, a brand synonymous with excellence in hospitality, to create a landmark that will stand as a beacon of modern living in Nairobi. This project is a direct response to the growing demand for high-end residential properties in Kenya, and we are confident that its prime location, superior design, and comprehensive amenities will set new benchmarks in the market.”

The project is poised to be one of Kenya’s tallest residential towers, reflecting the nation’s ambitious growth and the increasing sophistication of its urban centers. Its strategic location in Westlands, a vibrant commercial and residential hub, ensures easy access to Nairobi’s business districts, diplomatic missions, and premier lifestyle destinations.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Bench.

Contact:
For CityBlue Hotels:
Email: grow@citybluehotels.com

For SMB Properties:
Email: sales@smbproperties.co.ke

About CityBlue Hotels:
CityBlue Hotels is Africa’s fastest-growing local hotel chain, renowned for its customer-centric approach and commitment to providing world-class hospitality across Eastern and Western 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.

About SMB Properties:
SMB Properties is a privately-owned luxury property developer based in Kenya, specializing in bringing to life residential projects designed with pristine detail for premium living. With a strong track record of delivering exquisite developments, SMB Properties is committed to transforming spaces into lifestyles, where prime locations meet unparalleled amenities. The company plays a significant role in shaping Kenya’s luxury real estate landscape, catering to discerning buyers seeking high-end finishes and world-class living experiences.

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La Force de la United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) patrouille pour stabiliser la région de Yadé


Dans la région de Yadé au nord-ouest de la République centrafricaine, la MINUSCA met en œuvre depuis février un plan de stabilisation afin de restaurer la cohésion sociale dans une zone profondément marquée par les tensions intercommunautaires. La Mission a ainsi réhabilité 13 ponts pour permettre une circulation fluide des personnes et des biens et a ouvert trois bases opérationnelles temporaires à Bozoum, Ngoutéré et Ndim. Les Casques bleus, qui y sont déployés, mènent chaque jour des patrouilles afin d’assurer la protection des civils.

Ce vendredi 13 juin 2025, la patrouille de la Force de la MINUSCA basée à Bozoum (Ouham-Pendé) s’est rendue à Bouforo localité située à 22 km de la ville. Dans chaque village ou bien au passage d’un groupe de personnes, les Casques bleus s’arrêtent pour s’enquérir de la situation.

A Bouforo, une localité durement touchée par des incidents sécuritaires, la patrouille de la Force est très appréciée par la population.

« C’est grâce aux patrouilles régulières des forces de la MINUSCA que nous pouvons vivre ici en paix. La Force ne manque pas de venir ici. Chaque semaine elle vient plusieurs fois. Elle surveille notre localité et nous avons la paix », dit Bertin Samba, responsable du programme élargi de vaccination au poste de santé de Bouforo.

Leslie Eremandji, 19 ans, précise que la présence de la Force a motivé le retour de sa famille dans le village. « Nous avons décidé de revenir ici au village à la suite de la présence des Forces de la MINUSCA qui ont ramené la paix », confie-t-elle.

A Kpare, village situé entre Bouforo et Bozoum, la population se réjouit également de la patrouille de la Force qui permet de rétablir la sécurité.

Selon Rufin Ndjomax, opérateur économique, « avant, on vivait dans l’insécurité.  On avait beaucoup de problèmes au village Kpare. Les gens avaient fui laissant leurs maisons sur la route de Baoro ; l’axe Baoro-Boufolo. La MINUSCA a donc multiplié les patrouilles ici à Kpare. Les patrouilles de la Force de la MINUSCA sèment la peur chez les groupes armés et la population peut vivre sans crainte et vaquer librement à ses occupations ».

Le déploiement de la Force de la MINUSCA aux côtés des Forces de défense centrafricaines rassure la population et offre aux autorités la possibilité de bien gouverner.

« S’il n’y avait pas des Casques Bleus à Bozoum, je ne pouvais pas faire mon travail. Même se déplacer, c’était un peu difficile. Mais maintenant que les Casques Bleus sont là, même la population a eu à applaudir. Donc je suis ravie », témoigne Geneviève Chour-Gbadin, préfète de l’Ouham-Pende.

Grâce à cet environnement propice créé à la suite du déploiement de la Force, des interventions ciblées telles que l’adduction d’eau vont pourvoir être mises en œuvre afin de répondre à certains besoins de la population.

Distribué par APO Group pour United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).