Category: Africa

Posted on

Nigeria: African Development Bank to join groundbreaking ceremony of Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone in Oyo State

Source: APO – Report:

The Federal Government of Nigeria and the Oyo State Government will be joined by the African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Oyo State Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ).

Headlining the ceremony, to be held 2 August 2025 in Ijaiye, Akinyele Local Government Area, will be Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, African Development Bank Group head, Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, and Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, alongside senior government officials, development partners, and private sector leaders.

The SAPZ Programme is a flagship of the Bank’s Feed Africa strategy and aims to transform Nigeria’s rural economy by facilitating agro-industrialisation, expanding market access, and attracting private sector investment.

This marks the third groundbreaking under Phase I of the Nigeria SAPZ Programme, and the first in the country’s southwest, following successful launches in Kaduna (http://apo-opa.co/45vNMqL) and Cross River (http://apo-opa.co/4ovxCp4) States, in April 2025. It underscores the Bank’s commitment to fostering regionally balanced agro-industrial development across Nigeria.  

Nigeria’s SAPZ Phase I spans seven states in addition to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT): Kaduna, Cross River, Oyo, Ogun, Kwara, Kano, and Imo, with a total financing envelope of $538 million. The programme is co-funded by the African Development Bank, the Islamic Development Bank, and the International Fund for Agricultural Development, alongside federal and state contributions.

Oyo State, with a population approaching 8 million and the largest landmass in the southern part of the country, is one of Nigeria’s most agriculturally endowed states. Over 90% of its 28,454 square kilometers is arable, positioning it as a key contributor to Nigeria’s agricultural output. Its proximity to Lagos – the most populous city and largest subnational economy in Africa – makes it a natural hub for agro-industrial investment, trade, and market access.

The 300-hectare SAPZ site in Ijaiye lies just 29 kilometres from Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, and is connected to key infrastructure, including the Chief Obafemi Awolowo Railway Station (16 km) and a newly upgraded road network that links to the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport – which is being modernized into an international cargo facility. These assets position Oyo State as a natural hub for domestic and export-oriented agro-processing.

The SAPZ will capitalize on Oyo’s comparative advantage in cassava, maize, poultry, soybeans, and horticulture.

In addition to the Ijaiye hub, the state is also developing a 2,800-hectare agribusiness hub with an Agricultural Transformation Centre (ATC) in Eruwa, designed to serve smallholder farmers and youth agripreneurs through shared infrastructure and service platforms. Both facilities are supported by a $37 million financing package from the African Development Bank.

As the African Development Bank and the Government of Nigeria advance the program, the Oyo SAPZ launch signals the continued scale-up of integrated, inclusive agro-industrial growth across the country.

Under phase 2 of the SAPZ program, another 24 states will come on board. Phase 2 generated $2.2 billion in global investment interest at the Africa Investment Forum held in December 2024 (http://apo-opa.co/3UFakPH).

– on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact:
Nkiruka Henrietta Ugoh
Nigeria Country Department
email: media@afdb.org

Media files

.

Posted on

No resilient economy without gender equality

Source: Government of South Africa

No resilient economy without gender equality

Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Minister, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has warned that there can be no resilient economy while wealth and income inequality persist along gender lines.

Speaking at the official launch held at the Sandton Convention Centre on Friday, Chikunga emphasised that economic resilience is fundamentally undermined when half the population remains economically marginalised.

“A resilient economy is one that should be able to withstand, adapt to, and recover from various shocks and disruptions while maintaining its ability to grow. And certainly, no economy can be truly resilient for all when half of its population is economically marginalised,” Chikunga said.

Chikunga said financial inclusion for women goes far beyond basic access to banking.

“It represents a fundamental shift in economic power. This struggle includes challenging discriminatory lending practices, advocating for property rights reforms that allow women to use assets as collateral, and confronting cultural norms that position men as the primary financial decision-makers.”

She argued that true economic resilience requires a deliberate reconstruction of systems and structures that harness the full productive potential of all citizens, with particular attention to those who have been historically excluded from economic power.

The Minister pointed out that Africa represents the future of trade and market success and has been at the centre of the population growth, accounting for the largest relative growth, with its population expanding from 283 million in 1960 to more than 1.5 billion in 2024 – a more than fivefold increase.

“This is projected to increase by 950 million and touch 2.5 billion by the year 2050. This population represents a largely untapped market that must be connected through technology, a market that must be fed from our arable land, a market that must travel, a market that must be entertained and a market that must be well dressed. In short, the market is at our doorstep. Let us innovate around it,” the Minister said.

Women at the heart of African trade 

The Minister underscored the need for women to be at the forefront of the African market, noting that traditional trade models, dominated by male-centred networks and structures, have proven insufficient in confronting the paradox of a wealthy Africa that is inhabited by poor Africans.

“Research evidence has consistently shown that economies with higher levels of women’s participation in trade enjoy greater resilience, innovation and sustainable growth patterns. We also know that women-led businesses tend to prioritise societal well-being over pure profit maximisation.”

Despite these strengths, Chikunga acknowledged that barriers remain — particularly limited access to digital tools, excessive red tape, border delays, and administrative red tape — that prevent women from fully participating in cross-border trade.

To address these challenges, the Minister called on policymakers, businesses and development financiers to intensify their efforts to eliminate these barriers and expand trade opportunities for women.

She said work must be intensified via the Comprehensive Financial Architecture Reform that establishes gender-responsive financial systems capable of addressing women’s unique economic realities.

“This includes the creation of women-focused investment funds that provide patient capital — capital with flexible, longer payback periods suited to the nature of women-led businesses. It also requires developing alternative credit scoring mechanisms that recognise informal economic activities, where many women are concentrated.

“Financial institutions must adopt collateral-free lending programmes, recognising that women’s limited property ownership should not exclude them from accessing capital. Additionally, blended finance mechanisms—which combine public and private funding—will help de-risk investment, while providing women entrepreneurs with the patient capital needed to build sustainable, export-ready businesses,” the Minister said.

A call to action

Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Deputy Minister, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, echoed the Minister’s message, urging women to see themselves not as passive beneficiaries but as active economic drivers.

“Women are not bystanders in the economy. We are contributors. It is time for women to lead a march for economic emancipation, from our townships to our rural areas.”

She also encouraged women to take ownership across all sectors, especially in the financial and digital economies.

“Do not limit yourselves to one sector. It is your time, take the economy in your hands. When women work together and support each other, we will win,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK

53 views

Posted on

SA continues to engage US over tariffs

Source: Government of South Africa

SA continues to engage US over tariffs

South Africa remains committed to finding a resolution with the United States following the recently imposed reciprocal tariffs.

This, as government intensifies efforts to protect jobs, support affected companies and diversify trade markets.

This according to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who addressed members of the media at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Friday. 

The President’s comments follow the imposition of a 30% tariff by the United States on all goods imported from South Africa. The move forms part of a broader US tariff policy affecting multiple trade partners across the globe.

President Ramaphosa said South Africa had already tabled a comprehensive and mutually beneficial trade proposal to the United States and that negotiations are ongoing.

“We put on the table a package, which would deal with our trade relations with the United States that contained what we were offering and what we wanted them to offer us. We wanted a number of trade items to be exempted, and we wanted to offer them the ability to invest in our economy, as well as South African companies to invest in the United States. 

“That package is still to be fully negotiated. What they want to do now is to deal with the trade issues that have got to do with what they are going to be imposing (sic)… Our negotiations with the US are continuing,” the President said. 

The President stressed that South Africa was not alone in facing these challenges. “Let’s be clear. South Africa is not the only country that is dealing with these crises. Many other countries are, some of which are in a much worse situation than we are. Others are slightly better off.

“All of us are involved in a process of having discussions and negotiations with the United States. It should also be clear that the US has come up with a unilateral tariff imposition on many countries in the world.

“They are the biggest economy in the world, so we have to respond to the US tariff proposal. Many of our companies deal with US customers. We export vehicles, steel and aluminium and citrus. We have to engage with them and find a way to reach a settlement. Within the window that’s still open, we are hoping that we will find a way to settle this matter. 

“On our African continent, we are the largest economy and the most industrialised economy. So obviously we will be a target, because we export more than many other countries,” the President said.

Support for local companies

Government is working on a support package for South African companies that are likely to be hit hardest by the new tariffs.

“That for us is the main objective, but at the same time, we are saying to our companies that we are going to come up with measures to support our companies through negotiations. There are other interventions that we are working on, which will lessen the blow to our companies,” President Ramaphosa said. 

Government’s approach is two-pronged: to negotiate both globally and at the sectoral level, while also offering direct support to industries most exposed to the US market. 

“Our objective really is to save jobs. We want to preserve the jobs at those companies that are going to be adversely affected.

“Those who deal with citrus, we will be assisting them with those negotiations, and those who deal with vehicles, we will be [assisting them as well]. The second approach is precisely that of assisting our companies and giving them as much help as we can,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa said South Africa is taking active steps to reduce its dependence on any single trade partner by encouraging companies to explore new international markets.

“The whole process of dealing with countries on a trade basis requires that we should be multidimensional. We should not just focus on one country, and we’ve been encouraging our companies to look out to export their products to various markets because it is too risky just to focus on one market. 

“When I travel overseas, I usually take a business delegation so that they can go and search for new markets wherever we go. The same thing happens with the Deputy President and other Ministers as well,” the President said. 

He emphasised that South Africa must intensify its efforts to expand international trade.

“For us to grow our economy, we need to be much more vigorous and robust with our international trade, and it must be as ‘international as the word international means’. 

“There are quite a number of countries that we need to reach out to, countries that want to deal with us, that want to trade with us, and this moment gives us that opportunity,” the President said. 

Engagement 

Following the briefing, The Presidency released a statement confirming that South Africa will continue negotiating with the United States on the tariffs which are expected to come into effect seven days after 1 August 2025. 

“South Africa will continue negotiating with the US regarding the 30% tariff announced by the US, which will come into effect on or after 12h01 eastern daylight time, seven days after 1 August 2025,” the statement read.

It clarified that previously exempted items under a US Executive Order, such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and stainless-steel scrap, remain excluded from the new tariff measures. 

The statement confirmed that South Africa has submitted a Framework Deal aimed at fostering mutually beneficial trade and investment relations. 

“All channels of communication remain open to engage with the US and our negotiators are ready pending invitation from the US,” it said.

In the interim, government is finalising a support package for affected sectors, with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) set to announce further details. An Export Support Desk has also been established to provide exporters with updates, guidance and market assistance.

READ | Government announces measures to assist exporters

“South Africa will continue to pursue all diplomatic efforts to safeguard its national interests.  It is important that as a country, we keep our people at work and our companies producing some of the high-quality products destined for many parts of the world,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM

93 views

Posted on

Township businesses to benefit from Merchant Development Programme

Source: Government of South Africa

Township businesses to benefit from Merchant Development Programme

The newly launched Merchant Development Programme is set to unlock opportunities for township-based automotive businesses in Krugersdorp.

The programme was launched by Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela on Thursday.

Diale-Tlabela said the initiative is a bold move by the Gauteng Provincial Government to promote inclusive economic growth. The programme is aimed at boosting township-based automotive businesses by integrating them into government’s fleet maintenance supply chain.

“This is not just another project. It is a bold and deliberate step toward realising the Gauteng Provincial Government’s commitment to inclusive economic growth, as proclaimed by Premier Panyaza Lesufi that 60% of the provincial budget must be spent within townships. This initiative will guarantee that we successfully transition from intention to execution,” she said.

READ | Gauteng to launch Merchant Development Programme

The initiative provides skills development, training, onboarding, accreditation and assistance for future integration into the government’s fleet maintenance supply chain.

The programme is championed by g-FleeT Management, the trading Entity of the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport, in partnership with the Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) and WesBank, to address barriers to entry.

Township spending by the Fleet Maintenance Unit of g-FleeT Management increased from 7% to 10% as of October 2024, with a clear goal to reach 30% by the end of 2025.

“Each rand invested in township merchants contributes directly to job creation and community development. This programme is about more than numbers. It is about impact, dignity and participation.

“In partnership with the private sector, we will continue to build an economy that values ambition and rewards ability, regardless of one’s location,” the MEC explained.

Meanwhile, AIDC Chief Executive Officer, Andile Africa, stated that they are proud to play a key role in this initiative by hosting, supporting and developing the merchants at Chamdor Automotive Hub.

He said AIDC provides the infrastructure, compliance support, training, and broader ecosystem benefiting merchants from being in a secure, Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI)-approved facility.

“[The] Merchant Development Programme is more than just repairing vehicles. It’s about repairing the structural inequalities of the past, building sustainable businesses, and creating real opportunities for people in our communities,” he said.

WesBank’s National Contract Manager for Fleet Services, Marcellus Mbanda, spoke to the RT46 contract, business model, and beneficiation approach to the townships, informal settlements and hostels (TISH) areas.

WesBank plays a key managing role in the RT46 contract, which is a transversal government contract designed to streamline the acquisition, financing, and disposal of vehicles for national and provincial departments.

The RT46 contract is a transversal term contract managed by the National Treasury for providing fleet management services.

“Currently, the bank is working with about 243 merchants sitting outside the hub, benefiting through RT46,” said Mbanda.

Mbanda further confirmed that since 2021, the amount spent towards repairs by township merchants has risen to R37 million in terms of allocation of work. – SAnews.gov.za

Neo

105 views

Posted on

Nigeria : participation de la Banque africaine de développement à la cérémonie inaugurale de la zone spéciale de traitement agro-industriel dans l’État d’Oyo

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le gouvernement fédéral du Nigeria, le gouvernement de l’État d’Oyo et la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org) procéderont à l’inauguration de la Zone spéciale de transformation agro-industrielle de l’État d’Oyo (SAPZ) ce 2 août 2025 à Ijaiye, dans la zone de gouvernement local d’Akinyele.

Le vice-président nigérian Kashim Shettima, le président du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement Akinwumi A. Adesina, et le gouverneur de l’État d’Oyo Seyi Makinde, présideront la cérémonie en présence de hauts fonctionnaires, de partenaires au développement et de dirigeants du secteur privé.

Mis en place par la Banque africaine de développement, le programme des Zones spéciales de transformation agro-industrielle (SAPZ) constitue un maillon essentiel de la stratégie « Nourrir l’Afrique » du Groupe de la Banque. Le programme vise à transformer l’économie rurale du Nigeria en facilitant l’agro-industrialisation, l’accès aux marchés et en attirant les investissements privés.

Cette cérémonie constituera le troisième lancement pour la première phase du programme SAPZ au Nigeria, et la première dans le sud-ouest du pays. En avril 2025, la Banque avait lancé avec succès, les SAPZ dans les États de Kaduna (http://apo-opa.co/45D0jb5) et de Cross River (http://apo-opa.co/3ITRIsJ). Ce programme souligne l’engagement du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement à favoriser un développement agro-industriel équilibré au niveau régional dans tout le Nigeria.  

La première phase du programme SAPZ au Nigeria couvre sept États fédérés outre le Territoire de la capitale fédérale (TCF). Il s’agit des États de Kaduna, Cross River, Oyo, Ogun, Kwara, Kano et Imo pour un financement total de 538 millions de dollars cofinancé par la Banque africaine de développement, la Banque islamique de développement (BID), le Fonds international de développement agricole (FIDA) et des contributions de la Fédération du Nigeria et des États fédérés bénéficiaires.

Avec près de huit millions d’habitants et représentant la plus grande masse continentale de la partie sud du pays, l’État d’Oyo est l’un des États du Nigeria qui disposent de plus de terres agricoles. Plus de 90 % de ses 28 454 kilomètres carrés sont constitués de terres arables, le plaçant au rang des principaux contributeurs à la production agricole du Nigeria. Sa proximité avec Lagos, la ville la plus peuplée et plus grande économie infranationale d’Afrique, en fait un pôle naturel pour l’investissement agro-industriel, le commerce et l’accès au marché.

S’étendant sur 300 hectares, le site de la SAPZ d’Ijaiye se trouve à seulement 29 kilomètres d’Ibadan, la capitale de l’État d’Oyo. Il est relié à des infrastructures essentielles comme la gare ferroviaire de Chief Obafemi Awolowo située à 16 kilomètres, ainsi qu’à un réseau routier récemment rénové assurant la connexion avec l’aéroport Samuel Ladoke Akintola (en cours de modernisation pour en faire une plateforme de fret international). Ces actifs positionnent l’État d’Oyo comme un pôle naturel de transformation agro-industrielle, tourné à la fois vers le marché intérieur et l’export.

La SAPZ capitalisera sur l’avantage comparatif d’Oyo dans les secteurs du manioc, du maïs, de la volaille, du soja et de l’horticulture.

Outre le centre d’Ijaiye, l’État développe également un pôle agroalimentaire de 2 800 hectares comptant un Centre de transformation agricole (ATC) à Eruwa, conçu pour répondre aux besoins des petits agriculteurs ainsi que des jeunes agro-entrepreneurs par le biais d’infrastructures et de plateformes de services partagées. Ces deux mécanismes sont appuyés par un financement de 37 millions de dollars de la Banque africaine de développement.

Alors que la Banque africaine de développement et le gouvernement du Nigeria font progresser le programme, le lancement de la SAPZ d’Oyo souligne la poursuite de l’intensification de la croissance agro-industrielle intégrée et inclusive à travers le pays.

Vingt-quatre autres États nigérians participeront à la 2e phase du programme SAPZ. Cette 2e phase a généré 2,2 milliards de dollars d’intérêt d’investissement mondial lors du Forum africain sur l’investissement tenu en décembre 2024 (http://apo-opa.co/45u6qzf) à Rabat au Maroc.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact médias :
Département de la communication et des relations médias
media@afdb.org

Media files

Posted on

Communiqué du quatrième forum Afrique-caraïbes sur le commerce et l’investissement

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Nous, la Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) et le gouvernement de la Grenade, avons convoqué le quatrième Forum Afrique-Caraïbes sur le commerce et l’investissement (ACTIF2025) du 28 au 29 juillet 2025 à George’s, Grenade, sous le thème  « Résilience et transformation – Renforcer la coopération économique Afrique-Caraïbes dans un contexte d’incertitude mondiale.

RECONNAISSANT les liens historiques, culturels et ancestraux profonds qui unissent l’Afrique et les Caraïbes, et réaffirmant notre engagement commun en faveur de l’avancement d’une Afrique mondiale prospère et autonome ;

SALUANT la reconnaissance par l’Union africaine de la diaspora africaine en tant que sixième région du continent, ainsi que son rôle essentiel dans la promotion du commerce, de l’investissement, de l’innovation et du développement durable dans les deux régions ;

RAPPELANT les déclarations et les conclusions des précédents forums de l’ACTIF – ACTIF2022 (Bridgetown, Barbade), ACTIF2023 (Georgetown, Guyana) et ACTIF2024 (Nassau, Bahamas) – qui appelaient à une intégration politique, économique et culturelle plus profonde entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes ;

RECONNAISSANT en outre la nécessité de renforcer la résilience dans un paysage mondial de plus en plus fragile et incertain, marqué par des crises climatiques, des pandémies, une montée en puissance du protectionnisme, des vulnérabilités liées à la dette et des dynamiques géopolitiques changeantes ;

CONSCIENTS des obstacles structurels persistants à l’intégration afro-caribéenne, notamment l’insuffisance des transports et de la connectivité, l’accès limité au commerce et au financement de projets, et le désalignement réglementaire ; dont la résolution présente des opportunités de croissance grâce à l’intégration régionale dans des secteurs tels que l’énergie, l’hôtellerie et le tourisme, l’agriculture et l’agroalimentaire, l’industrie manufacturière, les industries créatives et culturelles, la santé, les services financiers, les transports et la logistique ;

AFFIRMANT qu’il est impératif de renforcer les marchés intra-africains et intra-caribéens, tout en développant simultanément le commerce et l’investissement afro-caribéens pour favoriser une prospérité et une transformation partagées.

CONVENONS DE CE QUI SUIT :

NOUS ENGAGEONS à soutenir l’approfondissement de la coopération entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes, en mettant l’accent sur la construction de chaînes de valeur transrégionales résilientes dans des secteurs stratégiques tels que l’agriculture, le tourisme, l’énergie, les infrastructures, la santé, les services financiers, l’industrie manufacturière et les économies créatives et numériques ;

SALUONS l’approbation de l’établissement et de la mise en œuvre d’un accord de libre-échange Afrique-Caraïbes, visant à éliminer les obstacles au commerce, à renforcer la cohérence réglementaire et à débloquer l’accès mutuel aux marchés ;

NOUS ENGAGEONS à appuyer et à accélérer la mise en œuvre de politiques et d’instruments permettant d’établir des liaisons aériennes et maritimes directes entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes, et APPELONS la Commission de l’Union africaine (CUA), le Secrétariat de la CARICOM, l’Organisation des États des Caraïbes orientales (OECO), le Centre du commerce international, le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf, l’Organisation du secteur privé de la CARICOM (CPSO), l’AfriCaribbean Business Council [le Conseil des entreprises afrocaribéennes-ACBC] et les parties prenantes du secteur privé en vue de créer des corridors commerciaux durables et commercialement viables.

SALUONS le large éventail d’accords commerciaux et d’investissement, d’un montant de plus de 300 millions de dollars US, qui ont été annoncés au cours de l’ACTIF2025, couvrant les infrastructures, la fabrication, la logistique, les services numériques, le tourisme et l’agro-industrie, et ENCOURAGEONS une plus grande participation des PME, des entreprises dirigées par des femmes et des jeunes ;

ENCOURAGEONS le développement constant de l’AfriCaribbean Business Council (ACBC) dans le cadre du partenariat entre l’Organisation du secteur privé des Caraïbes et l’Africa Business Council [ Conseil des entreprises africaines] en tant que plateforme dynamique pour catalyser les liens interentreprises, renforcer la promotion du commerce et résoudre les défis communs du secteur privé ;

SALUONS l’approbation de la Commission pour l’Afrique mondiale en vue de stimuler et de renforcer les relations économiques et culturelles entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes par le Gouvernement de la Grenade, Saint-Kitts-et-Nevis et d’autres dirigeants de l’Organisation des États des Caraïbes orientales ; et APPELONS les chefs d’État et de gouvernement africains et des Caraïbes à approuver la Commission pour l’Afrique mondiale lors du Sommet Afrique-Caraïbes à Addis-Abeba en septembre 2025 ; 

SALUONS également l’ambition d’établir des Championnats d’Afrique mondiale d’athlétisme en tant qu’initiative historique renforçant le développement de la jeunesse et la diplomatie sportive entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes et en tant qu’une des initiatives de la Commission pour l’Afrique mondiale ;

RECONNAISSONS le rôle central joué par les partenaires stratégiques, y compris la Commission de l’Union africaine (CUA), le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf, le Secrétariat de la CARICOM, l’Organisation des États des Caraïbes orientales et le Centre du commerce international, dans la promotion de la vision commune de l’Afrique mondiale ;

ENCOURAGEONS les deux régions à parler d’une seule voix sur les questions mondiales, en préconisant des systèmes de commerce équitable et des réformes économiques qui reflètent les aspirations collectives ;

RÉCLAMONS une action conjointe en Afrique et dans les Caraïbes et un plaidoyer en faveur de la justice climatique au niveau mondial ;

DEMANDONS la réalisation d’études stratégiques pour optimiser les liens économiques, sociaux et culturels entre les Caraïbes et l’Afrique ;

SOULIGNONS l’impérieuse nécessité de supprimer les restrictions en matière de visas afin de promouvoir les mouvements entrepreneuriaux ainsi que le commerce et les investissements entre les deux régions ;

SALUONS la collaboration visant à remédier aux pénuries de compétences numériques et aux lacunes de capacités dans les secteurs des télécommunications et du numérique qui entravent le développement régional et nécessitent une attention immédiate par le biais de programmes de transfert de compétences et de connaissances ;

FÉLICITONS le gouvernement de la Grenade et les autres États de l’OECO pour avoir présenté des opportunités concrètes bancables ;

FÉLICITIONS en outre les 13 pays qui ont signé l’accord de partenariat d’Afreximbank et exhortons les pays restants à officialiser leur participation afin de bénéficier pleinement de services de financement, de facilitation et de conseil adaptés ;

RECONNAISSONS la nécessité urgente d’investir dans des infrastructures qui libèrent les opportunités de commerce et d’investissement entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes dans des secteurs tels que l’énergie, les transports, le haut débit, les ports, l’écotourisme, et APPELONS les institutions de financement du développement à concevoir des solutions ciblées pour ce programme ;

RECONNAISSONS PAR AILLEURS le rôle important de l’économie créative et numérique – y compris la musique, le cinéma, la littérature, la mode, les arts visuels et le sport – en tant que moteur dynamique de croissance, d’identité et d’autonomisation des jeunes, et félicitons Afreximbank pour ses initiatives en faveur du secteur ;

FÉLICITONS M. George Elombi pour sa nomination au poste de quatrième Président d’Afreximbank et du Conseil d’administration de la Banque ;

NOUS ENGAGEONS à poursuivre la tenue du Forum Afrique-Caraibes sur le commerce et l’investissement , et réaffirmons notre plein soutien à l’ACTIF2026, en tant que plate-forme phare pour accélérer le commerce, l’investissement et l’intégration afro-caribéens.

MOTION DE REMERCIEMENTS

EXPRIMONS notre profonde reconnaissance aux 2 106 délégués issus de plus de 80 pays d’Afrique, des Caraïbes et de la communauté internationale pour leur participation active et leur contribution à l’ACTIF2025, y compris 11 chefs d’État et de gouvernement, des hauts fonctionnaires, des dirigeants d’entreprises, des artistes, des universitaires, des partenaires de développement, 85 conférenciers et modérateurs et 102 exposants ;

EXPRIMONS également notre gratitude aux anciens chefs d’Etat et de gouvernement, S. E. Olusegun Obasanjo, ancien Président du Nigéria, S. E. Mahamadou Issoufou, ancien Président du Niger, et M. Percival J. Patterson, ancien Premier ministre de la Jamaïque, pour leur sagesse et leurs conseils dans la définition du cap de l’Afrique mondiale ;

REMERCIONS en outre la Commission de l’Union africaine, le Secrétariat de la Communauté des Caraïbes, le Secrétariat de la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine, le Secrétariat de l’Organisation des États des Caraïbes orientales, l’Organisation des Nations Unies et le Centre du commerce international pour leur soutien continu au renforcement des relations entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes ;

EXPRIMONs notre profonde gratitude au peuple de la Grenade, sous la direction de la Gouverneure générale, Dame Cécile La Grenade, et du Premier ministre, l’honorable Dickon Mitchell, pour leur hospitalité exceptionnelle et l’organisation sans faille du Forum ;

SALUONS enfin le leadership visionnaire du Professeur Benedict Oramah, Président d’Afreximbank et du Conseil d’administration de la Banque, et FELICITONS la Banque et ses partenaires pour leur engagement inébranlable à faire avancer la vision d’une Afrique mondiale unie et autonome grâce à la plateforme ACTIF.

Fait le 29 juillet 2025 à George’s, Grenada.

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

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

Suivez-nous sur les réseaux sociaux :
X: https://apo-opa.co/45rzR57
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3H4EKI6
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/45nqMJA
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/45sXtpY

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 2024, le total des actifs et des garanties de la Banque s’élevait à environ 40,1 milliards de dollars US et les fonds de ses actionnaires s’établissaient à 7,2 milliards de dollars US. Afreximbank est notée A par GCR International Scale, Baa2 par Moody’s, AAA par China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI), A- par Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) et BBB par Fitch. Au fil des ans, Afreximbank est devenue un groupe constitué de la Banque, de sa filiale de financement à impact appelée Fonds de développement des exportations en Afrique (FEDA), et de sa filiale de gestion d’assurance, AfrexInsure, (les trois entités forment « le Groupe »). La Banque a son siège social au Caire, en Égypte.

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

Media files

Posted on

Fourth Africaribbean Trade and Investment Forum Communiqué

Source: APO – Report:

We, the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) and the Government of Grenada, convened the Fourth AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2025) from 28 to 29 July 2025 in St. George’s, Grenada, under the theme, Resilience and Transformation – Enhancing the Africa-Caribbean Economic Cooperation in an Era of Global Uncertainty.

RECOGNIZING the profound historical, cultural, and ancestral bonds that unite Africa and the Caribbean, and reaffirming our joint commitment to the advancement of a prosperous and self-reliant Global Africa.

ACKNOWLEDGING the African Union’s recognition of the African Diaspora as the sixth region of the continent, and its critical role in fostering trade, investment, innovation, and sustainable development across the two regions.

RECALLING the declarations and outcomes of previous ACTIF forums—ACTIF2022 (Bridgetown, Barbados), ACTIF2023 (Georgetown, Guyana), and ACTIF2024 (Nassau, The Bahamas)—which called for deeper political, economic, and cultural integration between Africa and the Caribbean.

RECOGNIZING the need to build resilience amid an increasingly fragile and uncertain global landscape—marked by climate crises, pandemics, rising protectionism, debt vulnerabilities, and shifting geopolitical dynamics.

CONSCIOUS of the persistent structural barriers to AfriCaribbean integration, including inadequate transportation and connectivity, limited access to trade and project finance, and regulatory misalignment; whose resolution present opportunities for growth through regional integration in sectors such as energy, hospitality and tourism, agriculture and agroprocessing, manufacturing, creative and cultural industries,health, financial services, transport and logistics.

AFFIRMING the imperative of strengthening intra-African and intra-Caribbean markets, while simultaneously expanding African-Caribbean trade and investment to drive shared prosperity and transformation.

WE HEREBY:

COMMIT to supporting the deepening  of cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean, with a focus on building resilient cross-regional value chains in strategic sectors such as agriculture, tourism, energy, infrastructure, health, financial services, manufacturing, and the creative and digital economies.

WELCOME the endorsement for the establishment and operationalization of an Africa–Caribbean Free Trade Arrangement, to eliminate trade barriers, enhance regulatory coherence, and unlock mutual market access.

UNDERTAKE to support, and fast-track the implementation of enabling policies and instruments to establish direct air and maritime links between Africa and the Caribbean, and CALL UPON the African Union Commission (AUC), CARICOM Secretariat, Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), International Trade Center, AfCFTA Secretariat, CARICOM Private Sector Organisation (CPSO), AfriCaribbean Business Council (ACBC), and private sector stakeholders to collaborate towards sustainable and commercially viable trade corridors.

WELCOME the wide range of trade and investment deals amounting to over US$ 300 million that were announced during ACTIF2025, spanning infrastructure,   manufacturing, logistics, digital services, tourism, and agribusiness—and ENCOURAGE greater participation by SMEs, women- and youth-led enterprises.

SUPPORT the continued growth of the AfriCaribbean Business Council (ACBC) under the partnership of the Caribbean Private Sector Organisation and the Africa Business Council as a dynamic platform to catalyze business-to-business linkages, strengthen trade promotion, and resolve common private sector challenges.

WELCOME the endorsement of the Global Africa Commission to drive and strengthen Africa-Caribbean economic and cultural relations by the Government of Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis and other leaders of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States; and call on African and Carribeean Heads of State and Government to endorse the Global Africa Commission at the African-Carribean Summit in Addis Ababa in September 2025. 

COMMEND the ambition of establishing a Global Africa Athletics Championships as a landmark initiative strengthening youth development and sports diplomacy between Africa and the Caribbean and as one of the initiatives of the Global Africa Commission

ACKNOWLEDGE the pivotal role played by strategic partners including the African Union Commission (AUC), the AfCFTA Secretariat, the CARICOM Secretariat, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States, and the International Trade Center in advancing the shared vision of Global Africa.

ENCOURAGE both regions to speak with one voice on global matters, pushing for fair trade systems and economic reforms that reflect collective aspirations

CALL  for joint Africa and Caribbean action and advocacy for climate justice at the global level

CALL for strategic studies to optimise Caribbean-African economic, social and cultural linkages.

EMPHASISE the imperative of eliminating of visa restrictions to promote entrepreneurial movement and promote trade and investment between the two regions.

WELCOME collaboration to adress digital skills shortages and capacity gaps in telecommunications and digital sectors that are hampering regional development and require immediate attention through skills and knowledge transfer programs COMMEND the Government of Grenada and fellow OECS states for showcasing concrete bankable opportunities.

APPLAUD the 13 countries that have signed onto Afreximbank’s Partnership Agreement and urge remaining countries to formalize participation in order to fully benefit from tailored financing, facilitation and advisory services.

ACKNOWLEDGE the urgent need to invest in  infrastructure that unlocks Caribbean- African trade and investment opportunities in sectors such as  —energy, transport, broadband, ports, eco-tourism—and CALL ON development finance institutions to design targeted solutions for this agenda.

RECOGNIZE the important role of the creative and digital economy—including music, film, literature, fashion, visual arts, and sports—as a vibrant engine for growth, identity, and youth empowerment and commend Afreximbank for its initiatives in support of the sector.

CONGRATULATE Dr. George Elombi on his appointment as the fourth President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the African Export-Import Bank.

COMMIT to the continued convening of the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum, and reaffirm our full support for ACTIF2026, as a flagship platform to accelerate Afro-Caribbean trade, investment, and integration.

VOTE OF THANKS

Express our deep appreciation to the 2,106 delegates from over 80 countries across Africa, the Caribbean, and the wider international community for their active participation and contribution to ACTIF2025—including 11 Heads of State and Government , senior government officials, business executives, artists, scholars, development partners, 85 speakers and moderators and 102 exhibitors.

Extend our gratitude to Former Heads of State Government His Excellency Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Former President of Nigeria, His Excellency Mahamadou Issoufou, Former President of Niger, and Right Honourable Percival J. Patterson, Former Prime Minister of Jamaica for their wisdom and guidance in charting the course of Global Africa.

We thank the African Union Commission, Caribbean Community Secretariat, African Free Trade Area Secretariat, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States Secretariat, the United Nations, and the International Trade Center for their continued support in building African-Caribbean relations.

We express our deep appreciation to the People of Grenada led by the Governor- General Dame Cecile La Grenade and Prime Minister, The Honourable Dickon Mitchell, for their exceptional hospitality and seamless organization of the Forum.

We acknowledge the visionary leadership of Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, and commend the Bank and its partners for their unwavering commitment to advancing the vision of a united and empowered Global Africa through the ACTIF platform.

29th day of July 2025 in St. George’s, Grenada.

– on behalf of Afreximbank.

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

Follow on Social Media:
X: https://apo-opa.co/45rzR57
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3H4EKI6
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/45nqMJA
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/45sXtpY

About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

Media files

.

Posted on

Youth in Oil & Gas Summit Founder Calls for Pragmatic Leadership to Empower Youth in Namibia

Source: APO – Report:

Justina Erastus, Founder of the Youth in Oil and Gas Summit in Namibia, called on the country’s leaders to empower the youth across the industry by providing access to job experiences and skills training. Highlighting the need to provide youth with the chance to gain experience, she drew insight into the instrumental role youth play in the evolving oil and gas sector – not only as participants, but as the visionary leaders of tomorrow.

Delivering opening remarks during the second edition of the Youth in Oil and Gas Summit in Namibia this July, Erastus explained that youth often face challenges gaining experience across the oil and gas sector, particularly in emerging markets such as Namibia. As such, the country’s leaders have a vital role to play in ensuring accessibility.

She said: “Investing in young Namibians is investing in the promise of a brighter tomorrow. How else do we empower the youth without giving them chances? It is not about experience, if you don’t have the experience, how will you gain it if the leaders do not give us a chance? Enough about the social media clickbait – we need to start hiring and training our youth.”

The Youth in Oil and Gas Summit offered a platform for industry leaders, international companies and Namibian youth to connect. Erastus explained that the summit “is a movement fueled by passion, true collaboration and the belief in our youth.” She added that the summit has evolved to become “a national project that is designed to empower every young Namibian, so that they see themselves as innovators and decision makers. This summit is situated at the crossroads of policy, investment and talent development, giving Namibians the tools to leverage their networks, sharpen their skills and launch their various careers.”

The summit comes as Namibia prepares for first oil production by 2029, led by industry players such as TotalEnergies, Shell, Chevron, Galp, Rhino Resources, ReconAfrica and more. This milestone is expected to spur the creation of a domestic fuel hub in Namibia, further bolstered by ongoing gas development at the Kudu field and onshore exploration in the Kavango basin. For Namibians, domestic oil and gas production offers the promise of fuel security, job creation and local business opportunities.

“I see a future where Namibia is 100% electrified, thanks to our oil and gas resources. I see a Namibia where we are a leading oil producing country, fueling industrial growth and driving regional integration. To every young person here – seize this moment,” added Erastus.

Namibia’s emerging oil and gas industry offers a range of opportunities across the entire value chain. As a sector largely in its infancy stage, the oil and gas industry requires significant levels of investment, innovation and technology. It is within this scenario that the youth have a vital role to play.

“Oil and gas is not an industry that is exclusively for the petrochemical, engineer or geophysicist. It is a long, interconnected value chain that calls for logistics experts, catering companies, waste managers, asset custodians, communicators and even creatives. There is room for every passion every skill and every dream,” stated Erastus. 

As such, Erastus called for a rethinking when it comes to youth in the Namibian oil and gas sector. The country has a unique opportunity to implement bold policies, prioritize inclusivity and empower the youth before the industry has even developed. For Namibia’s youth, Erastus underscored the need to think, not only of opportunity today, but how the youth can transform the industry of tomorrow.

“Let us think of ourselves not only as participants but as the visionary leaders of tomorrow. We should be leaders that uplift our communities and choose integrity over convenience. Leaders who rewrite the narrative of possibility. Let us create a future that is prosperous, safe and enabling, not just for ourselves but for the generations yet to come,” Erastus concluded.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Media files

.

Posted on

African Energy Chamber (AEC) Advocates for Namibia’s Youth-Led Energy Future

Source: APO – Report:

Namibia’s emerging oil and gas sector is set to become a cornerstone of national economic development, with youth empowerment, skills training, infrastructure readiness and policy reform forming key pillars of its long-term strategy. Speaking at the second edition of the Youth in Oil and Gas Summit held in Walvis Bay, NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org), discussed the importance of inclusive participation in the energy sector, calling for stronger public-private collaboration to ensure Namibia’s resources deliver impact for local communities.

As Namibia prepares for first oil from major offshore discoveries in the Orange Basin – led by global energy players such as TotalEnergies, Shell, Galp and Chevron – the summit spotlighted the need for foundational capacity building, including STEM education, vocational training and investment in youth entrepreneurship. The event, spearheaded by Justina Erastus, and supported by key national institutions such as Petrofund, emphasized local ownership and workforce integration as the industry scales up.

“A future that speaks to the hearts and minds of all Namibians is a future that speaks to the hearts of every Africa,” Ayuk stated, adding, “When we see what you are building for your country, we know the future is bright.”

According to the AEC, Namibia’s anticipated offshore production will require robust support infrastructure ranging from marine services and logistics hubs to data centers and grid-connected baseload power. Ayuk highlighted that energy demand linked to digital infrastructure – including AI, cloud computing and data storage – would require consistent, large-scale electricity generation. This positions Namibia’s oil and natural gas sector as a potential anchor for industrial development.

While acknowledging global climate priorities, the AEC emphasized that Namibia and other African nations must have the right to leverage their natural resources to combat energy poverty. With Africa contributing less than 3% to global greenhouse gas emissions, the Chamber maintained that international climate policies must account for the continent’s development needs.

“There are forces around the globe telling us that climate change is the problem. But how do you think Europe became what it is? How do you think America became what it is? How do you think Asia became what it is? They use oil. They use coal. They make billions for themselves. And right now, they tell you in this country, you don’t deserve the right to use your oil. We don’t agree with that,” Ayuk stated.

Institutional partners such as Petrofund were recognized for their role in providing scholarships and technical training for Namibians, especially women and youth. Petrofund’s investment in vocational education and postgraduate studies has directly supported the country’s efforts to create a skilled workforce ready to meet industry demand.

Ayuk also called on industry players, government and academia to create synergy around youth capacity building. He urged energy companies operating in Namibia to commit to meaningful local content policies and to make space for young professionals in both technical and leadership roles.

“We’ve got to figure out how to make industries more accommodating to young women. Globally, we’ve seen less than 70% women in the oil and gas industry. That’s not enough,” Ayuk added.

The summit also underscored the importance of regulatory and policy coherence to support industrial growth. The AEC reaffirmed its support for ongoing efforts by Namibia’s Upstream Petroleum Unit to align national frameworks with global best practices, while tailoring them to the country’s unique socioeconomic landscape.

Namibia’s growing energy ecosystem, including downstream infrastructure, local fabrication capacity and training institutions, stands to benefit from strategic investments aligned with long-term goals. The AEC maintains that a balanced, pragmatic approach to energy – one that includes both hydrocarbons and renewables – will allow Namibia to transition sustainably while building wealth and creating jobs.

“It starts with you. It starts with what role you want to play. And the role you have to play that shaped the future. You represent that,” Ayuk concluded.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Media files

.

Posted on

United Arab Emirates (UAE) leaders congratulate Presidents of Benin, Switzerland on National Days

Source: APO – Report:

.

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent congratulatory messages to President Patrice Talon of Benin, and President Karin Keller-Sutter of the Swiss Confederation on the occasion of their countries’ National Days.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, also dispatched similar messages to the Presidents of Benin and the Swiss Confederation.

– on behalf of United Arab Emirates, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.