Category: Africa

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Pan African Visions August Edition Spotlights Sierra Leone’s New Dawn, Leadership and Development Transformation

Source: APO

Sierra Leone takes centre stage in the August 2026 edition of Pan African Visions (PAV) (https://PanAfricanVisions.com) Magazine, with an expansive package examining the country’s changing development landscape, President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership, the growing profile of First Lady Fatima Maada Bio, and the sectors and institutions shaping its future.

Published under the cover theme “Julius Maada Bio and Sierra Leone’s New Dawn,” the 90th edition of PAV Magazine goes beyond the headlines to assess a country working to strengthen its regional standing while confronting the demanding task of converting reforms, stability and international partnerships into sustainable economic opportunities.

The Sierra Leone package comes at a significant moment. President Bio’s regional leadership and Sierra Leone’s recent hosting of major regional engagements have helped raise the country’s diplomatic profile and reinforce its emergence as an increasingly consequential voice in West Africa.

PAV examines what these developments mean beyond diplomacy. Through interviews, profiles and analysis, the edition explores Sierra Leone’s infrastructure, energy ambitions, roads, ports, tourism, mining, investment prospects and institutional reforms, highlighting both progress and the considerable work that remains.

Infrastructure features prominently. From improvements in roads and transport connectivity to developments at the country’s ports and new facilities supporting international engagement, the magazine examines investments designed to improve Sierra Leone’s competitiveness and position it for greater trade, tourism and investment.

Energy is another important part of the conversation. With Sierra Leone seeking new investment and partnerships across the energy value chain, PAV explores a sector whose evolution could prove decisive to the country’s industrialisation ambitions and broader economic transformation.

The August edition also looks at Sierra Leone beyond economics. A major feature examines the work and growing international profile of First Lady Fatima Maada Bio, whose advocacy for the protection and empowerment of women and girls has become one of the country’s most visible social initiatives. Her engagement on education, gender equality, agriculture and development, alongside partnerships with continental and international actors, reflects the expanding role of African First Ladies in advancing social causes.

Tourism, diaspora engagement, philanthropy and institutional leadership also feature prominently, offering readers a broader picture of the personalities, institutions and opportunities contributing to Sierra Leone’s changing narrative.

Beyond Sierra Leone, the August edition maintains PAV’s continental lens with a compelling mix of politics, economics, investment and sport.

In Senegal, PAV examines President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s evolving political strategy and changing political dynamics under the headline “Diomaye Faye’s New Power Play.”

Botswana’s diamond economy faces a different test. Long celebrated as one of Africa’s strongest development success stories, the country is confronting vulnerabilities created by its dependence on diamonds and the growing urgency for meaningful economic diversification.

In South Africa, the magazine turns to the complexities of coalition governance and the continuing test of whether competing political forces can translate an unprecedented governing arrangement into effective leadership and delivery.

The edition also asks one of Central Africa’s most consequential political questions: what comes after Paul Biya? After more than four decades of his rule, Cameroon’s political future and the uncertainties surrounding succession are explored in “The Unanswered Post-Biya Question.”

Africa’s expanding investment relationships beyond its traditional partners receive attention through an exclusive interview with Dr. M’zée Fula Ngenge, Chairperson of the Africa Pavilion and Co-Founder of the Africa GCC Council, who discusses efforts to build a stronger Africa-GCC investment bridge and connect African projects, entrepreneurs and governments with capital and opportunities across the Gulf.

Meanwhile, Brian Wesaala, Founder and President of the Football Foundation for Africa, shares his vision for transforming Africa’s immense football passion and talent into a stronger commercial ecosystem capable of generating investment, businesses and jobs.

Together, the stories capture the diversity of a continent where political transitions, economic pressures, reform efforts, development ambitions and new investment partnerships are unfolding simultaneously.

Read the August Edition

The August 2026 edition of Pan African Visions Magazine – Edition 90, Vol. VIII is available online, giving readers, policymakers, investors, development partners and other stakeholders access to the full collection of interviews, features and analysis.

Read or view the full magazine here:
https://apo-opa.co/4za1Kvq

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Pan African Visions.

Media & Partnerships:
Pan African Visions
Email: pav@panafricanvisions.com
Tel: +1 240 429 2177

About Pan African Visions:
Pan African Visions is an Africa-focused media platform providing news, interviews, analysis and insights on politics, business, investment, energy, development, diplomacy and other issues shaping the continent.

Through PanAfricanVisions.com and its monthly magazine, PAV connects policymakers, investors, corporate leaders, diplomats, development institutions, entrepreneurs and diaspora communities with African perspectives, opportunities and decision-makers.

A distinctive feature of Pan African Visions Magazine is its tradition of thematic and special editions, providing deeper coverage of countries, strategic sectors, major continental events and issues of importance to Africa. Previous editions have placed special emphasis on energy, fintech, investment, mining, governance, leadership and economic transformation, combining high-level interviews with analysis and perspectives from policymakers, corporate executives and industry leaders.

That thematic approach continues in the months ahead. The September 2026 edition will place the Central African Think Tank Forum in focus, providing a platform for conversations around policy research, evidence-based decision-making and the role of think tanks in addressing Central Africa’s development challenges.

This will be followed in October by PAV’s annual African Energy Week Special Edition, one of the magazine’s flagship sector-focused publications. The special will bring together interviews, corporate profiles, investment perspectives, thought leadership and analysis around Africa’s rapidly changing energy landscape and the companies, governments and personalities driving it.

These thematic editions are part of PAV’s commitment to move beyond episodic coverage and provide sustained platforms through which African priorities, investment opportunities, policy debates and success stories can reach influential audiences across Africa and internationally.

Committed to “Marketing African Success Stories,” Pan African Visions seeks to strengthen Africa’s voice in the global information landscape while providing balanced coverage of the continent’s opportunities, achievements and challenges.

Marketing and Partnership Opportunities:
Pan African Visions welcomes partnerships with corporations, governments, investment promotion agencies, development institutions, diplomatic missions, foundations, conferences and organisations seeking greater visibility and meaningful engagement with audiences across Africa and internationally.

PAV’s thematic and special editions offer particularly strong opportunities for organisations seeking to align their brands, expertise and leadership with major African conversations. The September Central African Think Tank Forum focus and October African Energy Week Special Edition are open to strategic partnerships, advertising, executive interviews, corporate profiles, thought leadership and customised visibility opportunities.

Across its magazine, digital and social platforms, PAV offers advertising, executive interviews, corporate and country profiles, sponsored features, thought leadership, press release distribution, event partnerships and coverage, special reports, social media promotion and customised communication campaigns.

For advertising, media partnerships, special reports, event collaborations and other strategic opportunities, organisations are invited to engage the Pan African Visions team.

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Zambia: Stalled reforms risk reversing human rights gains

Source: APO


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Candidates running in Zambia’s general elections on 13 August must commit to reversing a growing pattern of authoritarian practices that threaten human rights before, during and after the polls, Amnesty International said today.

In a new briefing, Authoritarian Practices Eating Away at Human Rights in Zambia: Escalating crackdown on human rights ahead of the 2026 general elections, Amnesty International documents how the authorities have intensified their crackdown on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly, association, expression and media freedom through broadly vague and hurriedly passed laws, curtailing participation ahead the August 2026 general elections.

“In 2021, Zambians voted in the hope for change following promises to respect human rights. Instead, authorities have resorted to the familiar playbook of using the law to criminalize peaceful dissent and silence independent media,” said Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa.

The briefing notes that despite some reforms including the repeal of the offence of criminal defamation of the president; the abolition of the death penalty; and the enactment of the Access to Information Act, there is a growing pattern of misuse of laws and the criminal justice system to suppress peaceful dissent and entrench political power.

“These laws have not only been used as the key tools for restricting dissent but also unleashing the punitive power of the state. The result is weaker accountability for human rights violations, erosion of the rule of law, and increasing barriers to access information,” said Tigere Chagutah.

In May 2026 Amnesty International interviewed 14 human rights defenders and representatives of civil society organizations including faith-based organizations, seven journalists, four student leaders and two opposition politicians. They described a pattern of intimidation, harassment and other human rights violations linked to their legitimate work. 

The briefing also highlights how the Zambian government has a history of introducing laws with some affecting civic space through fast-tracked processes, a pattern that continues with lawmakers debating, amending and voting on large numbers of bills within days. This significantly affects public participation in the law-making process.

Amnesty International calls on the Zambian authorities to end the growing pattern of repression of dissent and independent media and to ensure that all laws affecting civic space are developed through transparent, inclusive and meaningful public consultations.

A pattern of regression to authoritarian practices 

The briefing documents an alarming escalation in human rights violations and concludes that authorities have created an environment conducive to abuses ahead of the general elections.

As part of an ongoing effort to tighten control over civil society, Amnesty International highlights the proposed Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) Bill currently before Parliament which would have a negative impact on the right to freedom of association in Zambia. The bill would grant the government excessive powers over the registration, regulation, suspension and dissolution of civil society organizations, seriously undermining their independence.

“The intention appears to be the selective use of these powers to curtail the work of civil society organizations, by weakening their vital role in promoting transparency, accountability, and human rights,” said Tigere Chagutah.

The briefing also notes that the cancellation of RightsCon, (the largest global tech and human rights conference) in May 2026, showed that restrictions on civic space in Zambia.

Amnesty International urges authorities to repeal the NGO Act and revise the proposed Non-Governmental Organizations bill to ensure full compliance with international human rights standards.

The briefing further highlights the continued operation of the colonial era Public Order Act, despite repeated recommendations by domestic and international bodies that it be repealed. The Act continues to impose severe restrictions on the right to peaceful assembly. On 12 May 2026, Parliament passed the Public Gatherings Bill to replace the Public Order Act of 1955. However, the bill has not been made law as President Hakainde Hichilema declined to assent to it, citing inconsistencies between the Bill and “established judicial precedents.”

Amnesty International reiterates its call for the repeal of the Public Order Act and for a comprehensive review of the Public Gatherings Bill, to ensure that any regulation of public assemblies facilitates, rather than restricts the exercise of the right to peaceful assembly, in accordance with international human rights standards.

The briefing also documents that several provisions of the Cyber Security Act and the Cyber Crimes Act 2025 and (Cyber Laws) have contributed significantly to the deterioration of the right to freedom of expression in Zambia. The two laws were enacted to repeal and replace the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act, No. 2 of 2021, they continue to provide broad powers that interfere with private communication, permit arbitrary interference with personal data and property, and restrict the rights to freedom of expression, association and conscience.

The briefing documents how authorities are increasingly using these laws to arrest government critics, journalists, activists and opposition politicians, creating a widespread climate of fear and self-censorship.

“The Cyber Crimes Act, particularly its provisions relating to defamation and harassment, raises serious concerns for human rights including the right to freedom of expression. It has become a tool to silence independent media and government critics, and to suppress public debate at a time when scrutiny of government actions and media freedom are essential ahead of the elections,” said Tigere Chagutah.

Journalists interviewed by Amnesty International also reported persistent harassment, intimidation, unlawful surveillance and criminal investigations for doing their work, especially when reporting on allegations of corruption, human rights abuses or politically sensitive issues.

The research found that politically motivated attacks against opposition members were not routinely investigated, contributing to a climate of fear and impunity.

The briefing also documents legislative processes that deliberately curtail public participation. Civil society organizations told Amnesty International that parliamentary consultations frequently amounted to little more than procedural formalities, despite formal invitations to participate.

“As Zambia goes to the polls, the authorities must immediately end the misuse of laws to suppress the rights to freedom of expression, association, peaceful assembly and media freedom. The next government should prioritize repealing or amending laws that are incompatible with Zambia’s Constitution and the country’s international human rights obligations,” said Tigere Chagutah.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Amnesty International.

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Afreximbank extends EUR110-million facility to Chad in largest ever financing support to the country

Source: APO

African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) has extended its largest-ever financing to the government of Chad with EUR 110 million equivalent in local currency to support the country’s economic development.

The facility agreement, signed on August 5,2026 at the Afreximbank Headquarters in Cairo, Egypt by Dr. George Elombi, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Bank, and Honourable Tahir Hamid Nguilin, Senior Minister, Minister of Finance, Budget, Economy, Planning and International Cooperation of Chad, provides for the proceeds of the facility to be utilised by the government to support trade-enabling infrastructure projects, as approved under the Country’s 2026 Finance Law.

The facility will promote trade flows, enhance economic resilience, and support the implementation of strategic trade-enabling infrastructure projects that are critical to advancing Chad’s long-term trade, economic transformation, and development objectives.

The deal further strengthens the strategic partnership between Afreximbank and the Government of Chad by supporting initiatives that promote local value addition, industrialisation and economic transformation in the country and the region.

This intervention is aligned with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Government of Chad and Afreximbank in June 2025, which established a strategic framework for collaboration across key sectors, including the development of Chad’s agropastoral potential, export-oriented agriculture, gold trading, the navigability of Lake Chad, refined petroleum trading, and refinery development.

Afreximbank’s President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Dr George Elombi, described the facility as an important milestone in the Bank’s partnership with the Government of Chad:

” Afreximbank is pleased to be a critical actor in Chad’s economic transformation journey and commends the government for the bold agenda to structurally transform the national economy. The credit facility is part of a financing programme aimed at supporting the government to deliver on priority projects, including special industrial zones for textile manufacturing and meat processing, transport infrastructure to connect Chad to Egypt and Libya as well as power generation, creation of crude refining capacity, and creation of transport and maritime economic opportunities in Lake Chad, among others. These investments will contribute to changing the structure of the Chadian economy and create sustainable employment and wealth for the Chadian people. With these investments, we are steadily placing Africa’s development future in the hands of the African people.”

Honourable Tahir Hamid Nguilin, Senior Minister, Minister of Finance, Budget, Economy, Planning and International Cooperation of Chad added: “The signing of this EUR 110 million financing agreement with Afreximbank marks a major milestone in strengthening the partnership between Chad and the Bank. This financing demonstrates Afreximbank’s renewed confidence in our country’s economic prospects and its ability to harness its potential. The resources mobilized will contribute to financing critical trade-enabling projects included in our national budget, particularly in the areas of infrastructure and the development of trade.

“We are particularly committed to transforming our natural wealth and economic potential into tangible trade opportunities for our economy and our people. This transaction also reflects our determination to diversify our financial partnerships and strengthen regional and continental economic integration. The Government of Chad looks forward to continuing this dynamic partnership with Afreximbank in support of sustainable, inclusive and job-creating growth.”

Chad’s economic transformation is steadily reshaping its economic future through a combination of strategic reforms, agricultural expansion, and sustained investment in its oil sector. Once heavily reliant on crude oil revenues, the country is now making progress towards building a more diversified and resilient economy. This transformation has earned international recognition, with the World Bank upgrading Chad’s 2026 economic growth forecast to 5.2 per cent.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

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

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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 strong 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-), Moody’s (Baa2) and S&P Global Ratings (BBB+). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt. 

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com 

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Afreximbank accorde au Tchad une facilité de 110 millions d’euros, le plus important financement jamais octroyé au pays

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) a accordé au gouvernement tchadien une facilité d’un montant équivalent à 110 millions d’euros en monnaie locale. Il s’agit du plus important financement que la Banque a octroyé au Tchad à ce jour, afin de soutenir le développement économique du pays.

L’accord de facilité, signé le 5 août 2026 au siège d’Afreximbank au Caire, en Égypte, par Dr George Elombi, Président d’Afreximbank et Président du Conseil d’administration de la Banque, et l’honorable Tahir Hamid Nguilin, Ministre d’État, Ministre des Finances, du Budget, de l’Économie, de la Planification et de la Coopération internationale du Tchad, prévoit que les fonds de cette facilité seront utilisés par le gouvernement pour soutenir les projets d’infrastructure facilitant le commerce, tels qu’approuvés par la loi de finance 2026 du pays.

Cette facilité favorisera les flux commerciaux, renforcera la résilience économique et soutiendra la mise en œuvre de projets d’infrastructures stratégiques facilitant le commerce, qui sont essentiels à la réalisation des objectifs à long terme du Tchad, en matière de commerce, de transformation économique et de développement.

Cet accord renforce encore le partenariat stratégique entre Afreximbank et le gouvernement tchadien en soutenant des initiatives qui favorisent la création de valeur ajoutée locale, l’industrialisation et la transformation économique dans le pays et dans la région.

Cette intervention s’inscrit dans le cadre du protocole d’accord (MoU) signé entre le gouvernement tchadien et Afreximbank en juin 2025, qui a établi un cadre stratégique de collaboration dans des secteurs clés, notamment le développement du potentiel agropastoral du Tchad, l’agriculture orientée vers l’exportation, le commerce de l’or, la navigabilité du lac Tchad, le commerce des produits pétroliers raffinés et le développement de raffineries.

Le Président d’Afreximbank et Président du Conseil d’administration de la Banque, Dr George Elombi, a souligné que la conclusion de cette facilité de crédit constitue une étape importante dans le partenariat entre la banque et le gouvernement tchadien :

« Afreximbank se réjouit de jouer un rôle clé dans le processus de transformation économique du Tchad et salue le gouvernement pour son programme ambitieux visant à transformer structurellement l’économie nationale. Cette facilité de crédit s’inscrit dans un programme de financement destiné à soutenir le gouvernement dans la réalisation de projets prioritaires, y compris des zones industrielles spéciales dédiées à la fabrication de textiles et à la transformation de la viande, des infrastructures de transport reliant le Tchad à l’Égypte et à la Libye, ainsi que des projets de production d’énergie, de création de capacités de raffinage de pétrole brut et de développement d’opportunités économiques liées au transport et au secteur maritime autour du lac Tchad. Ces investissements contribueront à transformer la structure de l’économie tchadienne et à générer des emplois durables ainsi que de la richesse au bénéfice du peuple tchadien. Grâce à ces investissements, nous plaçons progressivement l’avenir du développement de l’Afrique entre les mains des Africains ».

L’honorable Tahir Hamid Nguilin, Ministre d’État, Ministre des Finances, du Budget, de l’Économie, de la Planification et de la Coopération internationale du Tchad, a ajouté : « La signature de cet accord de financement de 110 millions d’euros avec Afreximbank marque une étape majeure dans le renforcement du partenariat entre le Tchad et la Banque. Ce financement témoigne de la confiance renouvelée d’Afreximbank dans les perspectives économiques de notre pays et dans sa capacité à tirer parti de son potentiel. Les ressources mobilisées contribueront au financement de projets essentiels facilitant le commerce et inscrits dans notre budget national, y compris dans les domaines des infrastructures et du développement du commerce.

« Nous sommes particulièrement déterminés à transformer nos richesses naturelles et notre potentiel économique en opportunités commerciales concrètes pour notre économie et nos populations. Cette opération reflète également notre volonté de diversifier nos partenariats financiers et de renforcer l’intégration économique régionale et continentale. Le gouvernement tchadien se réjouit de poursuivre ce partenariat dynamique avec Afreximbank en faveur d’une croissance durable, inclusive et créatrice d’emplois ».

La transformation économique du Tchad redéfinit progressivement l’avenir économique du pays grâce à une combinaison de réformes stratégiques, d’expansion agricole et d’investissements soutenus dans son secteur pétrolier. Naguère fortement dépendant des recettes du pétrole brut, le pays s’achemine désormais vers la mise en place d’une économie plus diversifiée et plus résiliente. Cette transformation a été saluée au niveau international, la Banque mondiale ayant relevé ses prévisions de croissance économique du Tchad pour 2026 à 5,2 %.

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

Contact Presse :
Vincent Musumba
Responsable de la Communication et des évènements (Relations Presse)
Courriel : press@afreximbank.com

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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) et S&P Global Ratings (BBB+). La Banque a son siège social au Caire, en Égypte. 

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

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O Afreximbank concede uma linha de crédito de 110 milhões de euros ao Chade, o maior apoio financeiro de sempre concedido ao país

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) concedeu ao Governo do Chade o maior financiamento de sempre, no valor equivalente a 110 milhões de Euros em moeda local, com o objectivo de apoiar o desenvolvimento económico do país.

O acordo da linha de crédito, assinado a 5 de Agosto de 2026 na Sede do Afreximbank, em Cairo, Egipto, pelo Dr. George Elombi, Presidente do Conselho de Administração do Banco e por S. Ex.ª o Sr. Tahir Hamid Nguilin, Ministro Sénior e Ministro das Finanças, Orçamento, Economia, Planeamento e Cooperação Internacional do Chade, prevê que as receitas da linha de crédito sejam utilizadas pelo governo para apoiar projectos de infra-estruturas que facilitem o comércio, tal como aprovado ao abrigo da Lei das Finanças de 2026 do país.

A linha de crédito irá promover os fluxos comerciais, reforçar a resiliência económica e apoiar a implementação de projectos estratégicos de infra-estruturas que facilitem o comércio, essenciais para promover os objectivos a longo prazo do Chade em matéria de comércio, transformação económica e desenvolvimento.

O acordo reforça ainda mais a parceria estratégica entre o Afreximbank e o Governo do Chade, apoiando iniciativas que promovam a criação de valor acrescentado local, a industrialização e a transformação económica no país e na região.

Esta intervenção está alinhada com o Memorando de Entendimento (MdE) assinado entre o Governo do Chade e o Afreximbank em Junho de 2025, que estabeleceu um quadro estratégico de colaboração em importantes sectores, incluindo o desenvolvimento do potencial agro-pastoril do Chade, a agricultura orientada para a exportação, o comércio de ouro, a navegabilidade do Lago do Chade, o comércio de produtos petrolíferos refinados e o desenvolvimento de refinarias.

O Presidente do Conselho de Administração do Afreximbank, Dr. George Elombi, descreveu esta linha de crédito como um marco importante na parceria do Banco com o Governo do Chade:

“O Afreximbank orgulha-se em ser um interveniente determinante na jornada de transformação económica do Chade e felicita o governo pela agenda ousada destinada a transformar estruturalmente a economia nacional. A linha de crédito faz parte de um programa de financiamento destinado a apoiar o governo na concretização de projectos prioritários, incluindo zonas industriais especiais para a produção têxtil e o processamento de carne, infra-estruturas de transportes para ligar o Chade ao Egipto e à Líbia, bem como a produção de energia, criação de capacidade de refinação de petróleo bruto e criação de oportunidades económicas nos sectores dos transportes e marítimo no Lago do Chade, entre outros. Estes investimentos contribuirão para alterar a estrutura da economia chadiana e criar emprego e riqueza sustentáveis para o povo chadiano. Com estes investimentos, estamos a colocar de forma consistente o futuro do desenvolvimento de África nas mãos dos povos africanos.”

S. Ex.ª o Sr. Tahir Hamid Nguilin, Ministro Sénior e Ministro das Finanças, Orçamento, Economia, Planeamento e Cooperação Internacional do Chade, acrescentou: “A assinatura deste acordo de financiamento no valor de 110 milhões de Euros com o Afreximbank representa um marco importante no reforço da parceria entre o Chade e o Banco. Este financiamento demonstra a confiança renovada do Afreximbank nas perspectivas económicas do nosso país e na sua capacidade de explorar todo o seu potencial. Os recursos mobilizados contribuirão para o financiamento de projectos essenciais de facilitação do comércio incluídos no nosso orçamento nacional, nomeadamente nas áreas das infra-estruturas e do desenvolvimento do comércio.

“Estamos particularmente empenhados em transformar a nossa riqueza natural e o nosso potencial económico em oportunidades comerciais concretas para a nossa economia e para o nosso povo.” Esta transacção reflecte igualmente a nossa determinação em diversificar as nossas parcerias financeiras e em reforçar a integração económica regional e continental. O Governo do Chade pretende continuar esta parceria dinâmica com o Afreximbank, em apoio a um crescimento sustentável, inclusivo e gerador de emprego.”

A transformação económica do Chade está a remodelar de forma constante o seu futuro económico através de uma combinação de reformas estratégicas, expansão agrícola e investimento sustentado no seu sector petrolífero. Outrora fortemente dependente das receitas do petróleo bruto, o país está agora a avançar no sentido de construir uma economia mais diversificada e resiliente. Esta transformação mereceu reconhecimento internacional, tendo o Banco Mundial revisto em alta a previsão de crescimento económico do Chade para 2026, apontando agora para 5,2 por cento.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Afreximbank.

Contacto para a Imprensa:
Vincent Musumba
Gestor de Comunicações e Eventos (Relações com a Imprensa)
Correio Electrónico: press@afreximbank.com

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Sobre o Afreximbank:
O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) é uma instituição financeira multilateral pan-africana com mandato para financiar e promover o comércio intra e extra-africano. Há mais de 30 anos que o Banco utiliza estruturas inovadoras para oferecer soluções de financiamento que apoiam a transformação da estrutura do comércio africano, acelerando a industrialização e o comércio intra-regional, impulsionando assim a expansão económica em África. Apoiante firme do Acordo de Comércio Livre Continental Africano (ACLCA), o Afreximbank lançou um Sistema Pan-Africano de Pagamento e Liquidação (PAPSS) que foi adoptado pela União Africana (UA) como plataforma de pagamento e liquidação para sustentar a implementação da ZCLCA. Em colaboração com o Secretariado da ZCLCA e a UA, o Banco criou um Fundo de Ajustamento de 10 mil milhões de dólares para apoiar os países que participam de forma efectiva na ZCLCA. No final de Dezembro de 2025, o total de activos e passivos contingentes do Afreximbank atingiu mais de 48,5 mil milhões de USD, e os seus fundos próprios totalizaram 8,4 mil milhões de USD. O Afreximbank tem notações de grau de investimento atribuídas pela China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), pela GCR (A), pela Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) e pela Moody’s (Baa2)  e pela S&P Global Ratings (BBB+). O Banco tem a sua sede em Cairo, Egipto.

Para mais informações, visite: www.Afreximbank.com 

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A Venezuela Energy Week confirma a data de 19 de agosto para o Houston Industry Showcase

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Os organizadores da Venezuela Energy Week (VEW) confirmaram que a Mostra da Indústria de Houston terá lugar a 19 de agosto de 2026 no The Post Oak Hotel. Com o apoio oficial do Ministério dos Hidrocarbonetos da Venezuela e da empresa petrolífera nacional PDVSA, o evento reunirá empresas do setor energético dos EUA, investidores e decisores políticos para explorar oportunidades comerciais antes da Venezuela Energy Week 2027, que se realizará em Caracas, em fevereiro.

A mostra contará com a presença da Ministra dos Hidrocarbonetos, Paula Henao, como oradora principal, que apresentará uma atualização sobre as prioridades energéticas da Venezuela, a agenda de investimento e as oportunidades de parceria internacional. A sua participação sublinha o compromisso do país em reforçar o envolvimento com a indústria global, numa altura em que procura expandir a produção e atrair novos investimentos no setor a montante.

Reunindo empresas de exploração e produção, operadores independentes, prestadores de serviços para campos petrolíferos, empresas de engenharia, empresas de tecnologia e instituições financeiras, o Houston Industry Showcase analisará oportunidades nas áreas da exploração, otimização da produção, reabilitação de infraestruturas e desenvolvimento de campos.

À medida que a Venezuela trabalha para aumentar a produção de petróleo e gás, prevê-se que a procura cresça pela experiência técnica dos prestadores de serviços norte-americanos em perfuração, intervenção em poços, serviços de conclusão, otimização da produção, elevação artificial, tecnologias digitais para campos petrolíferos e reabilitação de infraestruturas. Os líderes do setor sediados em Houston — incluindo a SLB, a Halliburton, a Baker Hughes, a Weatherford e uma vasta rede de empreiteiros EPC, fabricantes de equipamentos e empresas de serviços especializados — estão bem posicionados para apoiar a modernização de campos maduros, melhorar a eficiência operacional e fornecer as tecnologias e serviços necessários para futuros projetos do setor a montante.

O evento de Houston surge na sequência de uma bem-sucedida Industry Showcase em Londres, que reuniu investidores internacionais, operadores e empresas de serviços energéticos para explorar o panorama de investimento em evolução da Venezuela. Aproveitando esse impulso, a edição de Houston aprofundará o envolvimento com o setor energético dos EUA e reforçará o diá. comercial antes da Venezuela Energy Week 2027.

A Venezuela Energy Week — a maior plataforma de investimento energético do país até à data — está confirmada para 22 a 25 de fevereiro de 2027, em Caracas. Organizado pela Energy Capital & Power, o evento reunirá líderes governamentais, investidores e partes interessadas do setor de toda a cadeia de valor energética global.

Para se inscrever no Houston Industry Showcase, a realizar-se a 19 de agosto, visite https://apo-opa.co/4g0TncR. Para saber mais sobre oportunidades de participação, patrocínio e parceria para o evento ou para garantir o seu lugar na Venezuela Energy Week 2027, em Caracas, contacte info@venezuelaenergyweek.com.

Apoio à recuperação da Venezuela após o terramoto
Os nossos pensamentos estão com as pessoas e as comunidades afetadas pelos recentes terramotos na Venezuela. À medida que o país inicia o longo processo de recuperação, encorajamos os membros da comunidade energética global a apoiar os esforços de socorro e reconstrução através do Fundo de Recuperação e Reconstrução da CAF para a Venezuela, que canaliza contribuições de particulares, empresas e organizações para assistência de emergência, serviços essenciais e esforços de reconstrução a longo prazo.

Para saber mais ou fazer uma contribuição, visite o Fundo de Recuperação e Reconstrução da CAF para a Venezuela.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Energy Capital & Power.

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La « Venezuela Energy Week » confirme la date du 19 août pour le « Houston Industry Showcase »

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Les organisateurs de la Venezuela Energy Week (VEW) ont confirmé que le salon « Houston Industry Showcase » se tiendra le 19 août 2026 à l’hôtel The Post Oak. Bénéficiant du soutien officiel du ministère vénézuélien des Hydrocarbures et de la compagnie pétrolière nationale PDVSA, cet événement réunira des entreprises énergétiques, des investisseurs et des décideurs politiques américains afin d’explorer les opportunités commerciales en amont de la Venezuela Energy Week 2027, qui se tiendra à Caracas en février.

La ministre des Hydrocarbures, Paula Henao, sera l’oratrice principale de cet événement et fera le point sur les priorités énergétiques du Venezuela, son programme d’investissement et les opportunités de partenariat international. Sa participation souligne l’engagement du pays à renforcer ses liens avec l’industrie mondiale, alors qu’il cherche à accroître sa production et à attirer de nouveaux investissements en amont.

Réunissant des sociétés d’exploration et de production, des opérateurs indépendants, des prestataires de services pétroliers, des bureaux d’études, des entreprises technologiques et des institutions financières, le Salon de l’industrie de Houston examinera les opportunités dans les domaines de l’exploration, de l’optimisation de la production, de la réhabilitation des infrastructures et du développement des gisements.

Alors que le Venezuela s’efforce d’augmenter sa production de pétrole et de gaz, la demande devrait s’accroître pour l’expertise technique des prestataires de services américains dans les domaines du forage, de l’intervention sur puits, des services de complétion, de l’optimisation de la production, du pompage artificiel, des technologies numériques pour les champs pétroliers et de la réhabilitation des infrastructures. Les leaders du secteur basés à Houston – notamment SLB, Halliburton, Baker Hughes, Weatherford et un vaste réseau de maîtres d’œuvre EPC, de fabricants d’équipements et de sociétés de services spécialisées – sont bien placés pour soutenir la modernisation des champs matures, améliorer l’efficacité opérationnelle et fournir les technologies et les services nécessaires aux futurs projets en amont.

L’événement de Houston fait suite à un « Industry Showcase » couronné de succès à Londres, qui a réuni des investisseurs internationaux, des opérateurs et des sociétés de services énergétiques afin d’explorer le paysage d’investissement en pleine évolution du Venezuela. S’appuyant sur cette dynamique, l’édition de Houston permettra d’approfondir l’engagement avec le secteur énergétique américain et de renforcer le dialogue commercial en amont de la Venezuela Energy Week 2027.

La Venezuela Energy Week – la plus grande plateforme d’investissement énergétique du pays à ce jour – se tiendra du 22 au 25 février 2027 à Caracas. Organisé par Energy Capital & Power, cet événement réunira des responsables gouvernementaux, des investisseurs et des acteurs du secteur issus de l’ensemble de la chaîne de valeur énergétique mondiale.

Pour vous inscrire au Salon de l’industrie de Houston le 19 août, rendez-vous sur https://apo-opa.co/4g0TncR. Pour en savoir plus sur les possibilités de participation, de parrainage et de partenariat pour ce salon, ou pour réserver votre place à la Venezuela Energy Week 2027 à Caracas, contactez info@venezuelaenergyweek.com.

Soutien à la reconstruction après le séisme au Venezuela 
Nos pensées vont aux personnes et aux communautés touchées par les récents séismes au Venezuela. Alors que le pays entame un long processus de reconstruction, nous encourageons les membres de la communauté énergétique mondiale à soutenir les efforts de secours et de reconstruction par le biais du Fonds CAF pour la reconstruction et le relèvement du Venezuela, qui canalise les contributions des particuliers, des entreprises et des organisations vers l’aide d’urgence, les services essentiels et les efforts de reconstruction à long terme.

Pour en savoir plus ou faire un don, rendez-vous sur le site du Fonds CAF pour la reconstruction et le relèvement du Venezuela.

Distribué par APO Group pour Energy Capital & Power.

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Venezuela Energy Week Confirms 19 August Date for Houston Industry Showcase

Source: APO

The organizers of Venezuela Energy Week (VEW) have confirmed that the Houston Industry Showcase will take place on 19 August 2026 at The Post Oak Hotel. Officially supported by Venezuela’s Ministry of Hydrocarbons and national oil company PDVSA, the event will bring together U.S. energy companies, investors and policymakers to explore commercial opportunities ahead of Venezuela Energy Week 2027 in Caracas in February.

The showcase will feature Minister of Hydrocarbons Paula Henao as a keynote speaker, providing an update on Venezuela’s energy priorities, investment agenda and opportunities for international partnership. Her participation underscores the country’s commitment to strengthening engagement with global industry as it seeks to expand production and unlock new upstream investment.

Bringing together exploration and production companies, independent operators, oilfield service providers, engineering firms, technology companies and financial institutions, the Houston Industry Showcase will examine opportunities across exploration, production optimization, infrastructure rehabilitation and field development.

As Venezuela works to increase oil and gas production, demand is expected to grow for the technical expertise of U.S. service providers in drilling, well intervention, completion services, production optimization, artificial lift, digital oilfield technologies and infrastructure rehabilitation. Houston-based industry leaders – including SLB, Halliburton, Baker Hughes, Weatherford and a broad network of EPC contractors, equipment manufacturers and specialized service companies – are well positioned to support the modernization of mature fields, improve operational efficiency and deliver the technologies and services needed for future upstream projects.

The Houston event follows a successful Industry Showcase in London, which brought together international investors, operators and energy service companies to explore Venezuela’s evolving investment landscape. Building on that momentum, the Houston edition will deepen engagement with the U.S. energy industry and strengthen commercial dialogue ahead of Venezuela Energy Week 2027.

Venezuela Energy Week – the country’s largest energy investment platform to date – has been confirmed for 22–25 February 2027 in Caracas. Organized by Energy Capital & Power, the event will bring together government leaders, investors and industry stakeholders from across the global energy value chain.

To register for the Houston Industry Showcase on August 19, visit https://apo-opa.co/4g0TncR. To learn more about delegate, sponsorship and partnership opportunities for the showcase or to secure your place at Venezuela Energy Week 2027 in Caracas, contact info@venezuelaenergyweek.com.

Supporting Venezuela’s Earthquake Recovery
Our thoughts are with the people and communities affected by the recent earthquakes in Venezuela. As the country begins the long process of recovery, we encourage members of the global energy community to support relief and reconstruction efforts through the CAF Recovery and Reconstruction Fund for Venezuela, which channels contributions from individuals, companies and organizations to emergency assistance, essential services and long-term rebuilding efforts.

To learn more or make a contribution, please visit the CAF Recovery and Reconstruction Fund for Venezuela (https://apo-opa.co/4hkvteE).

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

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Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) Secures New Patent for Smart Stabilization System from Intellectual Property Office of Singapore

Source: APO


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The Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) (https://IsDBInstitute.org) is pleased to announce that the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS) has granted a new patent for its innovative Smart Stabilization System.

The patent was granted on 10 July 2026 under Singapore Patent No. 10202250873B for the invention titled “A Computer Network Stabilization System and Method.” The patent application was filed on 1 September 2022 and was formally granted following a comprehensive review process.

The Smart Stabilization System is a pioneering digital market infrastructure designed to stabilize asset markets by intelligently managing supply-demand gaps and mitigating excessive volatility. Leveraging sophisticated algorithms and advanced simulation models, the system is designed to anticipate supply and demand imbalances and implement programmable stabilization measures before they escalate into market disruptions.

Unlike traditional stabilization mechanisms that rely on capital reserves, buffer funds, or external interventions, the Smart Stabilization System introduces a next-generation framework for achieving autonomous market stabilization through proactive and programmed stabilization mechanisms. By incorporating distributed ledger technology and cryptographic trust mechanisms, the platform enhances transparency, trust, and operational resilience for digital asset and commodity markets.

The successful patent grant reflects IsDBI’s growing contribution to technological innovation and its commitment to developing knowledge-based solutions that address contemporary economic and development challenges.

Since filing the patent application back in 2022, the Institute has continued to advance the Smart Stabilization System through ongoing development and testing, aimed to expand its practical applications and support future capitalization opportunities. These advancements have positioned the system as a potentially transformative solution for enhancing stability and resilience in increasingly digital and interconnected economies.

Commenting on this occasion, Dr. Sami Al-Suwailem, Acting Director General of IsDBI, said, “The grant of this patent by the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore further strengthens the Institute’s position as a leader in developing innovative knowledge-based solutions that leverage modern technologies to address complex development challenges. This achievement reflects our commitment to translating pioneering research into practical solutions that contribute to economic resilience and sustainable development.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI).

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About the IsDB Institute:
The Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) is the knowledge beacon of the Islamic Development Bank Group. Guided by the principles of Islamic economics and finance, the IsDB Institute leads the development of innovative knowledge-based solutions to support the sustainable economic advancement of IsDB Member Countries and various Muslim communities worldwide. The IsDB Institute enables economic development through pioneering research, human capital development, and knowledge creation, dissemination, and management. The Institute leads initiatives to enable Islamic finance ecosystems, ultimately helping Member Countries achieve their development objectives. More information about the IsDB Institute is available on https://IsDBInstitute.org

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Call to apply for Reserve Bank bursary programme

Source: Government of South Africa

Call to apply for Reserve Bank bursary programme

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) is calling on aspirant economists who will be entering their first year of undergraduate studies in the 2027 academic year to apply for its external bursaries programme.

“The SARB, as part of addressing the severe shortage of skills in South Africa, provides scholarships and bursaries to students in relevant fields of study who are from disadvantaged backgrounds,” the central bank said.

The closing date for the submission of applications is Wednesday, 30 September 2026.

In support of the corporate social initiatives of the SARB and its External Bursary Scheme, several external scholarships and bursaries are made available annually to qualifying prospective undergraduates.

“The SARB’s Economic Research Department, in collaboration with the SARB Academy, hereby invites prospective undergraduate degree students to apply for competitive SARB bursaries in the fields of economics, economics and econometrics, economics and mathematical statistics, and economic science,” it said.

Aspiring economists to be considered for the bursary, they must meet the following requirements:
•    have provisional acceptance into an undergraduate degree in the field of economics;
•    have achieved an average pass mark of 70% in their current year of study, with a good command of English and Mathematics (70% and above);
•    be younger than 30 years of age; and 
• be in financial need (unable to afford to attend university without a bursary)

Examination results, proof of acceptance at a recognised institution (a student number), and any other supporting documents must be submitted with the application.

Students must use PROMO CODE: SARBERD27 in their applications.

They can submit by post to:
Dimpho Nkoana
POSTNET Suite 101
Private Bag X153
Bryanston
2021

Applications can also be sent by email to:  sarbbursary@ttibursaries.co.za

In addition, online applications can be made to:  https://sarb-bursary-manager.replit.app/

Potential external bursars will be required to avail themselves for interviews. Successful applicant(s) for the bursary will be expected to sign an agreement with the SARB. –SAnews.gov.za
 

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