Category: Africa

Source: APO

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As the world marked International Women’s Day, female debaters in Bor stepped onto the stage to discuss some of the most pressing political questions facing South Sudan: Can women lead better than men? Is federalism better than centralism? And is the country ready for elections?

The discussion, supported by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) brought together young women from six secondary schools to discuss governance, leadership and the future of democracy in the country.

For many of the participants, the event was more than a competition. It was a platform for young women to practice political leadership and challenge long-standing expectations that governance debates are the domain of men.

Do women lead differently? That was the crux of one of the motions spoken about: “this house believes that a woman can make a better President.”

Rather than taking a gendered approach, some participants argued that the real question lies in leadership styles and approaches.

Yar Alier Anyieth of Amazing Grace High School encouraged the audience to think about the qualities leaders bring to governance. Her arguments focused on how empathy, consensus-building and courage can shape leadership outcomes. According to her, women often bring collaborative approaches to decision making, which can strengthen governance.

“We women understand what is at stake when there is conflict. We often are most directly impacted by violence, such as for example the ongoing insecurity in Jonglei and other parts of South Sudan. This perspective makes us uniquely positioned to lead inclusively,” she stated.

The debate also highlighted how forums like this help prepare young women for future leadership roles in a country where women remain underrepresented in politics.

By speaking about complex national issues, students not only expressed their views but also built their confidence to participate in public decision-making.

This was particularly evident when it came to viewpoints about the systems of governance.

Ms. Achol Noah Panchol strongly supported federalism, arguing that decentralised governance can empower communities, especially women.

She explained that in a centralized systems, decision affecting women in remote areas are by national elites. According to her, federalism would bring decision-making closer to local communities. “Decentralising power creates opportunities for women to participate more effectively in leadership at the state, county and community level, and decisions would take into consideration the needs of the communities on the ground.”

Participants also noted that when governance structures are closer to communities, women have greater opportunities to influence policies that directly affect their lives. For many students, discussing federalism also connected to the broader constitutional debate taking place in South Sudan as the country continues its efforts to reform governance structures.

The final motion of the debate asked a crucial question: Is South Sudan ready for elections? This sparked intense discussion among participants.

Matelek Amer Kuol of St. Andrew High School argued that women could play a transformative role through ballot boxes, emphasizing that women make up a significant portion of voters and have the potential to shape the country’s political future. “Elections are an opportunity for women to influence governance,” she said, adding that women’s participation in voting and leadership strengthens democracy.

Another participant, Abuol Alier Leek argued that youth and women should play an active role in shaping a peaceful democratic transition.

However, the winning motion belonged to those who argued that that conditions for credible elections are still lacking. Their arguments focused on the need for stronger institutions, improved security and better preparations to ensure elections are transparent and inclusive.

Despite differing views, one message resonated throughout the event. Young women are increasingly engaging in discussions about governance and democracy.

Events like this organized with support from UNMISS are helping create spaces where young women can develop the skills and confidence needed to participate in public discourse.

For students who took part, the debate was not about winning arguments. It was about envisioning a future where women’s voices are no longer on the margins but at the center of national decision making.

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

Source: APO

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Mr. Selby Pillay, Ambassador of the Republic of Seychelles, led the Seychelles delegation at the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Council of Ministers Meeting held from 12th to 13th March 2026 in Pretoria, South Africa. Ambassador Pillay attended the meeting on behalf of Ambassador Barry Faure, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora of the Republic of Seychelles.

The meeting is being held under the theme “Advancing Industrialisation, Agricultural Transformation, and Energy Transition for a Resilient SADC,” as adopted during the last Summit in August 2025 in Madagascar.

The Council of Ministers was preceded by the Standing Committee of Senior Officials, as well as a special meeting of Senior Officials and Experts on the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020–2030. The RISDP serves as a 10-year framework aimed at deepening regional integration and advancing sustainable development within the SADC region.

During his intervention, Ambassador Pillay highlighted that Seychelles continues to face structural economic challenges. He noted that the country’s economy remains highly vulnerable due to limited diversification, human capital constraints, and the growing adverse impacts of climate change. He further underscored the asymmetries that exist amongst Member States, particularly between small island developing states and larger, more diversified economies.  In this regard, he underscored the importance of recognising the varying economic realities among Member States and the need for regional policies to take these differences into consideration.

Additionally, Ambassador Pillay expressed Seychelles’ support for the proposed strengthening of cooperation between SADC and India, particularly in areas of mutual strategic and developmental interest. These include sustainable development, digital transformation, and the responsible advancement of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.

Ambassador Pillay was accompanied by Mrs. Veronique Morel, Acting Head of Mission at the Seychelles High Commission in South Africa, and Ms. Trisha Hoareau, Second Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Republic of Seychelles.

Source: APO

Across power and water, there is no shortage of announcements, memoranda and pipeline lists. Yet investors, DFIs and lenders repeatedly describe the same frustration: a large share of project opportunities arrive too early, too thin or too ambiguously structured to move through real due diligence. Developers, in turn, often face a different reality: they are trying to progress projects inside complex permitting environments, uncertain offtake frameworks, misaligned stakeholder expectations and a grid that may not be ready when the project is.

The gap is not ambition. The gap is bankability and decision velocity.

Where deals stall in practice

Most projects do not fail because the technology is unproven. They stall because the fundamentals are not yet ready for capital. In practical terms, the friction points tend to cluster around:

• Revenue certainty: offtake, tariff realism, creditworthiness and enforcement
• Grid access: connection capacity, timelines and the transmission build-out required to make delivery feasible
• Permitting and land: predictable sequencing, timeframes and stakeholder alignment
• Risk allocation: clarity on what sits with the developer, the offtaker, the state and the financiers
• Project preparation maturity: data room readiness, governance, delivery capability and credible timelines
• Country and currency risk: the real cost of hedging, indexation and macro volatility

Africa does not lack projects. It lacks projects that are investable at speed.

What changes when you engineer the conversation

This is the logic behind the Project & Investment Network (P&IN) (https://apo-opa.co/4lo8Sha) at Enlit Africa: to create structured, decision-oriented engagements that help shorten the path from early interest to investable next steps.

In practice, that means designing a deal-making environment around mechanisms rather than marketing. The aim is not to create a “conference meeting calendar”. The aim is to reduce friction and increase the quality of conversations, by ensuring that the right people are in the room with the right level of information and the right intent.

P&IN is built around:

• Structured matchmaking based on investor mandates and project characteristics, not general networking – the business breakfast on 19th May will provide insights into small structural or programmatic shifts and how they can exponentially change focus, delivery and outcomes. Join Bruce Whitfield, award-winning business journalist and best-selling author as we explore the business landscape for power infrastructure.
• Targeted project briefings that focus on mitigating delivery constraints and risk allocation and realistic readiness milestones
• Curated discussions with decision-makers from utilities, government and finance to pressure-test what is required to move projects forward
• A practical emphasis on what happens next: defining the immediate milestones that shift a project towards bankability

Why this matters now

Africa’s infrastructure constraints are now delivery constraints. Grid expansion, reliability and industrial growth cannot wait for perfect conditions. Yet capital will only move at scale when opportunities are structured, risks are priced and delivery capability is evident.

P&IN exists to help close that gap by turning project intent into investable conversations and investable conversations into disciplined next steps.

Call to action:

For developers: Apply to present your project (https://apo-opa.co/40tikq6) to investors and DFIs through P&IN
For investors and DFIs: Request the investor pack and participation criteria
For utility and public sector leaders: Participate in decision-focused dialogues (https://apo-opa.co/4deEeEY) on delivery constraints and investment readiness

Register: https://apo-opa.co/4rzRWWx

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

About Enlit Africa: 
Enlit Africa brings the top manufacturers, associations, institutions and government leaders together to shape a prosperous energy and water future for Africa. Co-located with Water Security Africa, Project & Investment Network, Utility CEO Forum, Municipal Forum and Women in Energy, Enlit Africa is designed to provide a unique platform to connect decision-makers and determine Africa’s future direction of travel.

Enlit Africa will take place from 19 – 21 May 2026 at the CTICC, Cape Town, South Africa. The event is CPD accredited by the SAIEE and SAICE, thereby contributing to the professional development of industry experts.

For more information and to book your pass, visit the Enlit Africa website: https://apo-opa.co/4rzRWWx
For speaking opportunities, contact Claire Volkwyn: Claire.volkwyn@wearevuka.com
For sponsorship and exhibition enquiries, contact Marcel du Toit: marcel.dutoit@wearevuka.com

About the event organisers: VUKA Group: 
VUKA Group (https://WeAreVUKA.com) connects people and organisations to information and each other, across Africa’s energy, mining, infrastructure, mobility, green economy and technology sectors through innovative events, content, and strategic networking. By integrating industry introductions, curated events and digital engagement, the group empowers businesses to navigate complex markets, forge valuable connections and drive sustainable success.

Venture partners to The Global Trust Project, Founders of WomenIN empowerment platform and leaders of NPO, Go Green Africa. The VUKA Group’s diverse portfolio acts to contribute to its purpose of ‘Connecting Africa to the World’s Best, to Influence Sustainable Progress’. Discover more at https://WeAreVUKA.com

Source: APO

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Energy supermajor Chevron has appointed Emmanuelle Garinet as Director of Exploration for the Americas and Sub-Saharan Africa, bringing one of the upstream industry’s most experience exploration geophysicists into a strategic leadership role overseeing discovery efforts across two of the world’s most important hydrocarbon regions.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) – as the voice of the African energy industry – welcomes the appointment, with Garinet’s move to Chevron serving as a positive signal for Africa’s exploration sector. For the Chamber, placing an executive with decades of African exploration experience at the helm of a major international oil company’s discovery strategy could help unlock new investment across frontier basins, accelerate geological understanding and strengthen collaboration between operators and host governments.

Expanding Exploration Across Sub-Saharan Africa

Chevron’s African portfolio is entering a new phase of exploration-led growth as international energy companies continue to pursue new discoveries across frontier basins and established producing hubs.

Namibia has emerged as one of the most closely watched exploration regions in the world following a series of major deepwater discoveries in the Orange Basin. Chevron is currently evaluating prospects in the Walvis Basin, where the company plans to drill a new exploration well in PEL 82 between 2026 and 2027. The campaign follows earlier drilling in the Orange Basin, reflecting the company’s continued interest in Namibia’s rapidly evolving offshore petroleum system.

In West Africa, Chevron is expanding its deepwater presence in Nigeria after acquiring a 40% stake from TotalEnergies in offshore licenses PPL 2000 and PPL 2001. The company is expected to deploy a drilling rig in late 2026 targeting resources near the Agbami field as part of a broader deepwater growth strategy.

Angola remains a cornerstone of Chevron’s African portfolio where, in December 2025, the company achieved first oil at the South N’dola platform in Block 0, producing approximately 25,000 barrels of oil per day using existing infrastructure. Associated gas from the project is routed to the Angola LNG plant, supporting the country’s gas monetization strategy while reducing flaring.

For the AEC, these developments highlight the continued importance of exploration in unlocking new energy resources across the continent while supporting regional economic growth and energy security.

Americas Portfolio Provides Additional Growth

Beyond Africa, Chevron maintains a large upstream portfolio across the Americas.

In the U.S. the company continues expanding production in the Permian Basin, where output is projected to reach around one million barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2026. Deepwater developments in the Gulf of Mexico also remains a key component of Chevron’s portfolio, contributing to long-term production growth.

In South America, Chevron’s position in Guyana’s prolific Stabroek Block – obtained through the company’s acquisition of Hess Corporation – places it within one of the world’s fastest-growing offshore petroleum provinces. Meanwhile, unconventional development in Argentina’s Vaca Muerta formation continues to support production growth in the region.

A Career Built on Global Exploration

Garinet’s career reflects more than three decades of experience in exploration geology, subsurface interpretation and international upstream leadership.

She began her career as a geophysicist, working on seismic analysis and subsurface evaluation before moving into management roles overseeing large exploration portfolios. Over time, she held senior leadership positions across multiple continents, including roles managing exploration programs in Nigeria, Gabon and South America.

Her tenure at TotalEnergies also spanned the transformation of the company from Elf Aquitaine to ToalFinaElf and ultimately TotalEnergies.

One of her most notable achievements was leading the exploration team behind the Venus discovery offshore Namibia – one of the largest deepwater oil finds in recent years and a project expected to move toward a final investment decision in 2026.

“Exploration leadership with deep technical expertise and real experience in Africa’s basins is critical as the continent seeks to unlock new resources and attract global investment,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC. “Emmanuelle Garinet brings decades of geological insight and international exploration leadership. Her appointment at Chevron sends a strong signal about the continued importance of African energy development.”

Garinet has also been a prominent advocate for African energy development and has frequently spoken at the annual African Energy Week conference in Cape Town, where she has highlighted the role of advanced seismic data, frontier exploration and efficient permitting systems in unlocking new opportunities across the continent. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Source: APO

As the world commemorates International Women’s Day, we are reminded of the remarkable contributions women continue to make in every sector of society. This day is not only a celebration of women’s achievements but also an opportunity to reflect on the progress made toward gender equality and the work that still lies ahead. As the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Alexa News Network Limited (www.Alexa.ng), I join millions around the world in honoring the strength, resilience, and invaluable impact of women in our communities, our nation, and across the globe. As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, we are reminded of the extraordinary role women play in shaping our societies and building stronger communities. Women are not only caregivers and nurturers within families but also leaders, innovators, and agents of transformation in every sphere of life.

Across the world, women continue to inspire change through their resilience, determination, and commitment to progress. In our homes, they nurture the next generation, instilling values of responsibility, compassion, and integrity. In our communities, women serve as pillars of unity, working tirelessly to promote peace, cooperation, and development. Their contributions often form the foundation upon which thriving communities are built.

Women are increasingly taking on leadership roles in business, governance, education, and the media. Their presence in these sectors brings fresh perspectives, inclusive decision-making, and a strong commitment to social progress. When women are empowered with education, economic opportunities, and supportive policies, they become powerful drivers of development, uplifting not only themselves but also their families and communities.

Women have consistently proven that leadership knows no gender. Across politics, business, education, technology, and governance, women continue to demonstrate excellence in decision-making and administration. The presence of women in leadership positions strengthens institutions and enriches perspectives. When women are empowered to lead, societies benefit from inclusive policies, innovative solutions, and balanced representation. As a society, we must continue to create opportunities that encourage women to take up leadership roles and participate fully in shaping the future.

In the field of journalism and media, women are playing a transformative role in shaping narratives and influencing public discourse. Women journalists bring unique perspectives to storytelling and often highlight issues that might otherwise remain unheard. From investigative reporting to community storytelling, female professionals in the media industry have helped amplify voices that deserve attention. As a media organization, Alexa News Network Limited recognizes the importance of supporting and promoting women in journalism, ensuring that their contributions are acknowledged and their voices remain strong in the media landscape. In the media industry, women continue to play a vital role in shaping narratives, raising awareness, and ensuring that diverse voices are heard. Their work helps to shed light on important issues and encourages dialogue that leads to meaningful change. As a media organization, Alexa News Network Limited recognizes the importance of promoting women’s voices and highlighting stories that inspire hope and progress.

However, while much progress has been made, there is still work to be done to achieve true gender equality. It is essential that governments, organizations, and communities continue to support policies and initiatives that empower women and provide equal opportunities for growth and leadership.

International Women’s Day is also a moment to celebrate women who have broken barriers and challenged stereotypes. Throughout history, women have faced social, economic, and cultural obstacles, yet many have risen above these limitations to make extraordinary achievements. These trailblazers serve as inspiration for younger generations, proving that determination, courage, and perseverance can overcome even the most entrenched barriers. Their stories remind us that gender should never be a limitation to ambition or success.

One of the most powerful ways to transform society is through the education of the girl child. When girls are educated, communities prosper, families become stronger, and nations grow. Education empowers young girls to make informed decisions, pursue their dreams, and contribute meaningfully to the development of society. Investing in education for girls is not only a moral responsibility but also a strategic pathway toward sustainable development. Governments, organizations, and communities must continue to prioritize educational opportunities for girls everywhere.

Economic empowerment is another critical pillar in advancing women’s rights and opportunities. Women entrepreneurs, professionals, and innovators contribute significantly to economic growth. Supporting women in business, providing access to finance, and removing systemic barriers can unlock tremendous potential in our economies. When women have the opportunity to build businesses and participate fully in economic activities, communities thrive and development becomes more inclusive.

In the workplace, gender equality remains an important conversation. Women deserve fair opportunities, equal pay, and safe environments where they can perform their duties without discrimination or harassment. Organizations must commit to policies that promote diversity, inclusion, and respect for all employees. As leaders, we must ensure that women are given equal opportunities to grow, lead, and succeed in their careers. When workplaces are inclusive, productivity increases and innovation flourishes.

Women are also powerful builders of peace and stability within communities. In families, communities, and institutions, women often play crucial roles in resolving conflicts, nurturing relationships, and fostering cooperation. Their ability to promote dialogue, empathy, and unity contributes greatly to social harmony. Recognizing and supporting the role of women in peacebuilding efforts can lead to stronger and more resilient societies.

As a media organization, Alexa News Network Limited recognizes the vital role that the media plays in promoting women’s voices and stories. Media platforms have the power to shape public perception and influence societal attitudes. By highlighting the achievements of women and bringing attention to the challenges they face, the media can inspire change and encourage greater equality. We remain committed to telling stories that empower women and showcase their contributions to national and global development.

Supporting young women and nurturing future female leaders is essential for building a better tomorrow. Mentorship, training programs, and leadership development opportunities can equip young women with the skills and confidence they need to excel. By investing in the next generation of women leaders, we create a pipeline of talent that will continue to drive progress and innovation across sectors.

Finally, International Women’s Day is a moment to celebrate the resilience and strength of women everywhere. Women are mothers, leaders, professionals, caregivers, innovators, and visionaries who contribute to society in countless ways. Their dedication, courage, and determination continue to shape the world for the better. From the home to the boardroom, from the classroom to the corridors of power, women continue to demonstrate remarkable strength and commitment.

As we celebrate this important day, let us reaffirm our dedication to building a society where women and men have equal opportunities to succeed. Let us commit to supporting women’s rights, amplifying women’s voices, and creating environments where every woman can reach her full potential.

On behalf of Alexa News Network Limited, I extend my warmest appreciation to all women who continue to inspire progress, leadership, and transformation. Together, let us work toward a future where equality, opportunity, and respect for women are not aspirations but everyday realities.

Happy International Women’s Day.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Alexa News Network.

Source: APO

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A high-level ministerial roundup will take center stage at this year’s African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 – taking place in Cape Town from 12–16 October –, convening some of the continent’s most influential energy leaders at a defining moment for Africa’s oil, gas and power sectors. As hydrocarbon expansion converges with accelerating energy transition strategies, the gathering is set to spotlight real-time project execution, regulatory reform and cross-border infrastructure that are actively reshaping Africa’s energy future.

Confirmed ministers to date include Algeria’s Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies Mourad Adjal, Ghana’s Minister for Energy and Green Transition Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, Senegal’s Minister of Energy, Petroleum and Mines Birame Soulèye Diop, Zambia’s Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote and Niger’s Minster of Petroleum Hamadou Tinni.

Fresh from a March OPEC+ decision to lift output to 977,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd), Algeria enters AEW 2026 amid a $60 billion sector transformation. The country is also advancing a 500-well exploration drive and accelerating its 1.48 GW “Project of the Century” solar rollout. Gas exports to Europe remains central to the country, supported by hydrogen corridor planning and refinery expansion aimed at boosting capacity to 50 million tons by 2029.

Following license extension for Jubilee and TEN to 2040 and the late-2025 restart of the Tema Oil Refinery, Ghana is pushing a $3.5 billion upstream reinvestment plan while settling $500 million in gas arrears. A 1,200 MW state thermal plant and expanded gas processing at Atuabo anchor its gas-to-power shift, alongside a renewed upstream push in the Voltaian Basin.

Senegal’s delegation comes on the back of strong production momentum, with the Sangomar oil field delivering 36.1 million barrels in 2025, outperforming forecasts, while the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG development ramped up to 2.9 million tons per annum following first gas. Dakar is now prioritizing domestic gas through refinery upgrades at the SAR refinery and preparations for Sangomar Phase 2 to push output beyond 100,000 bpd.

Zambia is redefining its power mix after drought-induced hydro shortfalls. New solar capacity – including the 200 MW Chisamba expansion and 136 MW Itimpi Phase 2 – is part of a broader 2,500 MW diversification drive. Cabinet has approved major regional fuel pipelines, while the Energy Single Licensing System fast-tracks approvals. Lusaka targets 10 GW generation by 2030, with solar and wind rising to one-third of supply.

Niger’s presence reflects its emergence as a serious oil exporter, with the fully operational 1,950-km Niger-Benin pipeline now moving up to 90,000 bpd to international markets. Alongside uranium expansion and renewed cooperation with Algeria on upstream assets, Niamey is advancing digital oversight reforms and reinforcing energy sovereignty amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.

“The participation of these distinguished ministers underscores the scale of opportunity unfolding across Africa’s energy landscape and the urgency of aligning policy with capital,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber. “Their leadership reflects a continent moving decisively from strategy to execution, creating a platform where investors can engage directly with the policymakers shaping Africa’s next wave of oil, gas and energy growth.”

At AEW 2026, this ministerial cohort will be well-positioned to offer investors direct insight into Africa’s most dynamic energy markets – where new barrels, new pipelines and new megawatts are reshaping regional growth trajectories in real time.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.