Cabo Verde: Governo lança programa de incentivos ao crédito à habitação para facilitar o acesso à casa própria

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Baixar .tipo

O Governo de Cabo Verde apresentou terça-feira, 17 de fevereiro, o Programa de Incentivos ao Crédito à Habitação, com destaque para os Juros bonificados do crédito à habitação e a garantia do crédito à habitação Jovem, com o objetivo de criar condições efetivas para que os jovens, mulheres e agregados familiares tenham acesso à casa própria permanente.

A apresentação foi feita pelo Vice-Primeiro-Ministro e Ministro das Finanças, Olavo Correia, acompanhado pelo Ministro das Infraestruturas, Ordenamento do Território e Habitação, Vítor Coutinho. O ato contou ainda com a presença dos presidentes dos Conselhos de Administração do Banco Comercial do Atlântico (BCA) e da Caixa Económica de Cabo Verde, entre outros dirigentes, técnicos e representantes da comunicação social.

Na ocasião, Olavo Correia afirmou que o défice habitacional constitui uma ferida antiga que exige soluções modernas, centradas nas famílias e nas pessoas.

“É uma ferida porque temos, em Cabo Verde, um défice habitacional quantitativo superior a 14 mil habitações por construir e mais de 50 mil habitações existentes que necessitam de reabilitação. Trata-se de uma tarefa árdua, que deve ser encarada a médio prazo, mas que exige medidas corajosas e disruptivas, assentes num plano consistente, coordenado, bem estruturado e rigorosamente executado”, sublinhou.

Segundo Olavo Correia, o acesso à habitação é uma prioridade do Programa do Governo, tanto para o combate à pobreza como para a redução do défice habitacional e a promoção da dignidade de vida dos cabo-verdianos. “É neste contexto que o Governo vem apresentando um programa abrangente para vencer o desafio da habitação”, afirmou.

O Programa de Incentivos ao Crédito à Habitação, no que respeita aos Juros Bonificados e à Garantia do Crédito à Habitação Jovem, constitui um dos pilares centrais desta estratégia mais ampla.

Olavo Correia explicou que muitos jovens e agregados familiares dispõem de rendimentos que não lhes permitem cumprir a taxa de esforço exigida para aceder ao crédito à habitação. Para responder a este constrangimento, o Governo criou um sistema de bonificação jovem, através do qual o Estado comparticipa até 55% da taxa de juro.

“Imaginemos um jovem que contrata um empréstimo de 10 mil contos para habitação, com uma taxa de juro de 6%. O serviço da dívida mensal rondaria os 60 mil escudos. Com um rendimento mensal de 114 mil escudos, a taxa de esforço seria demasiado elevada e o banco não concederia o crédito. Com a bonificação do Estado de 55%, o jovem passaria a pagar menos de metade desse valor, ou seja, menos de 30 mil escudos mensais, tornando viável o acesso ao empréstimo para aquisição da sua casa própria”, explicou.

De acordo com o Vice-Primeiro-Ministro, este sistema permitirá integrar no perímetro de acesso à habitação pessoas que antes estavam excluídas. O mesmo princípio aplica-se aos agregados familiares. “Uma família com rendimento mensal de 114 mil escudos, ao contrair um empréstimo de 10 mil contos a 6%, teria uma taxa de esforço superior a 50%, o que inviabilizaria o financiamento. Com a bonificação estatal de 50%, a prestação mensal reduz-se para cerca de 30 mil escudos, passando a família a reunir condições para aceder ao crédito e concretizar o projeto de habitação própria”, destacou, considerando a medida “transformativa e disruptiva”.

Neste quadro, o Governo vai criar condições efetivas para que mais jovens e famílias possam aceder ao crédito à habitação, seja para aquisição, seja para construção de casa própria, no âmbito de uma parceria já estabelecida com a Caixa Económica de Cabo Verde e o BCA.

O governante esclareceu ainda que, frequentemente, os bancos exigem uma entrada inicial de 10% a 15% de capital próprio, o que constitui um obstáculo adicional para muitos jovens. “Num empréstimo de 10 mil contos, essa entrada pode atingir 1.500 contos. O jovem, em regra, não dispõe desse montante e, sem ele, o banco não concede o crédito. O Estado intervém, então, concedendo uma garantia correspondente a esses 15%, permitindo que o banco financie até 100% do valor e viabilize o acesso ao crédito”, exemplificou.

Olavo Correia considerou tratar-se de uma das medidas mais disruptivas do Governo no domínio da promoção da habitação, apelando ao sistema bancário para atuar com celeridade, simplicidade e transparência. Defendeu uma atuação sem burocracia excessiva, com informação clara e fidedigna, de modo a assegurar que os jovens e as famílias que reúnem os requisitos possam aceder, de forma rápida e eficaz, aos mecanismos de bonificação e garantia para a concretização do sonho da habitação própria.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Governo de Cabo Verde.

Seychelles: Appointment of the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Investment Board (SIB)

Source: APO


.

The Office of the President has today announced the appointment of Ms. Jutta Alexis as Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Investment Board (SIB).

Ms. Alexis holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Edith Cowan University in Australia, as well as a Diploma in Secondary Education Teaching from the National Institute of Education. Her professional background is complemented by strong expertise in leadership, governance, policy coordination, and public communication.

Ms Alexis brings with her extensive work experience in both the public service and the private sectors. She has held the position of Clerk to the National Assembly of Seychelles from 2016 to 2020, where she oversaw parliamentary administration and provided strategic and procedural support to the Speaker and Members of the National Assembly. Her portfolio included legislative documentation, committee work, and institutional governance. She also served as Public Relations Officer at the National Assembly and as Third Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, contributing to diplomatic communications and international relations.

She served as Director General at the Ministry of Education from August 2021 to February 2024, where she provided leadership in stakeholder engagement, policy advocacy, and institutional collaboration. She also served as a member of the local and international engagement committee of the University of Seychelles.

Ms. Alexis’ appointment as Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Investment Board (SIB) took effect from 16th February 2026.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

Seychelles: President Herminie Proposes Elevating Japan Visit to Official Level as Seychelles–Japan Relations Approach Historic Milestones

Source: APO


.

As Seychelles and Japan prepare to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in June 2026, President Dr. Patrick Herminie has called for a renewed and elevated phase of cooperation between the two nations, including the possibility of formalising new agreements at the highest level.

The President made the remarks during a courtesy call by H.E. Mr. Sakuta Makoto, Resident Ambassador of Japan to Seychelles, at State House Thursday, where discussions centred on strengthening strategic collaboration in maritime security, health, cultural exchange and international cooperation.

President Herminie welcomed the invitation extended by Mr. Yonei Sasakawa of the Nippon Foundation to attend the Island States Ocean Summit scheduled for 3–4 June 2026 in Tokyo. He noted that Seychelles is giving positive consideration to the invitation and proposed that the engagement be transformed into an official visit to Japan. Such an upgrade, he stated, would allow both sides to capitalise on the historic milestone of diplomatic relations by signing several Memoranda of Understanding to deepen cooperation in priority sectors. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora will communicate a formal response in due course.

The President also extended an invitation to Japan to participate in Seychelles’ 50th Anniversary of Independence celebrations, emphasising that the landmark event offers a meaningful platform to celebrate enduring friendships and shared achievements.

Maritime security featured prominently in the discussions, particularly the ongoing construction of the new Marine Police Headquarters at Perseverance, financed through an 800 million Japanese Yen grant approved in 2019. President Herminie expressed satisfaction with the progress of the project, describing it as a significant step toward enhancing Seychelles’ capacity to address maritime crime and drug trafficking within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The facility is expected to be completed in June 2026.

President Herminie reiterated Seychelles’ appreciation for Japan’s sustained support in key sectors including fisheries, climate resilience, infrastructure, education, culture and health. He acknowledged the proactive engagement of the Japanese Embassy in Victoria in advancing dialogue and cooperation.

In the health sector, the President expressed gratitude for assistance provided under the Grant Aid for Economic and Social Development Agreement, which has facilitated the procurement of essential medical equipment for the Ministry of Health.

The President further commended Japan’s contributions to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and its Global Maritime Crime Programme, through which over USD 4 million has been channelled over the past two years to support maritime security initiatives in Seychelles and the wider region.

Discussions also covered visa exemption measures, with President Herminie acknowledging ongoing progress toward facilitating travel for diplomatic and official passport holders. He noted that enhanced mobility would further strengthen diplomatic engagement and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.

Cultural cooperation was likewise highlighted, with appreciation expressed for the successful organisation of the 4th Edition of the Japanese Film Festival in Seychelles earlier this month.

Concluding the meeting, President Herminie renewed Seychelles’ commitment to deepening its time-honoured partnership with Japan, grounded in mutual respect, shared interests and a common vision for stability and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean region.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

KZN Transport welcomes peace deal after Phoenix e-hailing assault

Source: Government of South Africa

KZN Transport welcomes peace deal after Phoenix e-hailing assault

KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma has welcomed what he described as a ground-breaking peace agreement between the KZN E-Hailing Council and the Phoenix Taxi Association following the recent assault of a Bolt driver in Phoenix.

The agreement was facilitated by the Department of Transport’s Public Regulatory Entity (PRE) after tensions escalated in the area.

A Bolt driver was allegedly assaulted and held for a R5 000 ransom after dropping off a passenger at Phoenix Plaza on Saturday, 14 February. The incident sparked concern over the safety and ongoing friction between the e-hailing and taxi sectors.

Speaking at a meeting held this week at Bethsaida Church in Phoenix, north of Durban, Duma commended the South African Police Service (SAPS), particularly the Phoenix Police Station — led by Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi — for intervening swiftly to avert what could have been a disaster.

The meeting, chaired by the PRE and eThekwini Metro Police, was described as robust, with stakeholders highlighting challenges facing the public transport sector in Phoenix.

Discussions focused on longstanding tensions between the taxi industry and e-hailing operators, regulatory compliance, and safety concerns.

Despite these challenges, both the KZN e-Hailing Council and Phoenix Taxi Association committed to work together in order to restore stability.

Regulatory compliance

Duma noted that e-hailing platform providers are currently registering their digital applications with the National Public Transport Regulator in compliance with the National Land Transport Amendment Act.
He said the National Department of Transport is reviewing applications from around six to 10 companies, with the deadline set for 10 March 2026.

“Successful e-hailing platform providers will be issued with certificates, and the Provincial Regulatory Entity will be informed of these successful providers. This will pave the way for drivers and operators in the province to apply for operating licences,” Duma said.

He added that the PRE will ensure strict compliance before issuing operating licences to drivers.
In November last year, the National Department of Transport urged e-hailing operators to convert their charter permits and meter taxi operating licences to e-hailing operating licences.

READ | Government calls on e-hailing operators to register vehicles for operating licences

Key resolutions

Stakeholders in the meeting reached an agreement on several measures aimed at fostering peace and strengthening regulation in the Phoenix area. These include:
•    Working together to ensure long-lasting solutions in order to achieve peace and stability within the public transport sector in the Phoenix area.
•    Regular meetings between the Phoenix Taxi Association and KZN E-Hailing Council, with the next meeting scheduled for the second week of March.
•    There will be a designated area where e-hailers will drop off and pick up passengers at the Phoenix Plaza.
•    Strengthened traffic enforcement to enhance safety and system compliance.
•    Rollout of Multidisciplinary Roadblocks involving KZN E-Hailing Council, Phoenix Taxi Association, SAPS, Road Traffic Inspectorate and Metro Police to root out illegal operators, including drivers who do not have an app and taxi operators who do not have permits or e-hailers who are transporting staff; and
•    The hosting of an E-Hailing Summit, in collaboration with eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba, aimed at harmonising relations and ensuring co-existence between e-hailing drivers and taxi operators. The date and venue are yet to be announced.

Duma also commended the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) eThekwini Region for its role in facilitating dialogue and contributing to the successful outcome of the meeting. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK

30 views

Public Works, North West to sign agreement to redevelop Pilanesberg Airport

Source: Government of South Africa

Public Works, North West to sign agreement to redevelop Pilanesberg Airport

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson, North West Premier Lazarus Mokgosi and Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality Mayor, Dinah Pitso, will on Friday sign two historic Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) at Pilanesberg Airport, outside Rustenburg. 

The agreements will accelerate infrastructure delivery and improve service delivery across the province.

They will be joined by the North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng and the MEC for Public Works and Roads, Sempe Elizabeth Mokua.

“The first agreement will see Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) work alongside the North West Provincial Government’s Department of Community Safety and Transport Management to provide project preparation and packaging support for the redevelopment of Pilanesberg Airport following the devastating fire in 2023.

“The second agreement will see Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality join Infrastructure South Africa’s Presidential Adopt-a-Municipality Pilot Programme,” the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure said in a statement.  

Through this programme, the municipality will receive technical support to strengthen project preparation, planning and implementation readiness. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

18 views

Webinar: Tech talk: Creating the mine of the future

Source: APO – Report:

Technology in African mining is moving at a rate of knots. From automation and robotics to artificial intelligence and digital twins, technology is rapidly advancing exploration, productivity, health and safety, ESG best practice and increased mine life.

Mining Review Africa, in partnership with BME (a member of the Omnia Group) and the Council for Geoscience, will host a webinar examining how technology is shaping intelligent mines across the continent. The online session will take place on 5 March at 2 pm SAST.

Key topics include:

  • Current technology trends: Automation, robotics, and AI in mining operations
  • Digitalisation: Connectivity, IoT, and digital twins
  • AI in mining: Its role in exploration, productivity, processing, and worker safety
  • Tech and sustainability: Using technology to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact
  • Creating the workforce of the future: Upskilling employees to maximise technological solutions
  • Future trends: Emerging technologies set to shape the mines of tomorrow

Confirmed speakers include:

  • Nishen Hariparsad (https://apo-opa.co/4s1eBeZ), General Manager: Technology and Marketing, BME, a member of the Omnia Group
  • Bokang Kalepa (https://apo-opa.co/46NWFfD), Chief Growth Officer, Baletsema Holdings
  • Clement Ndou (https://apo-opa.co/4kNmHFJ), Scientist – Spectral Geologist, Council for Geoscience

The webinar will be moderated by Gerard Peter, Editor-in-Chief, Mining Review Africa.

Registration is free. Participants can secure their spot to gain insights into the technologies driving smarter, safer, and more sustainable mining operations across Africa.

Register to attend for free: http://apo-opa.co/4tKW8F0

– on behalf of VUKA Group.

Media files

.

Central Bank of Iraq Hosts Islamic Development Bank Institute’s Workshop on Capital Adequacy Standards for the Banking Sector

Source: APO – Report:

.

The Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) (https://IsDBInstitute.org/) successfully delivered a five-day intensive capacity-building workshop titled “Revised Capital Adequacy Standard for Islamic Banks” for the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI), held from 8 to 12 February 2026 in Baghdad.

The program was conducted in collaboration with the Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB), reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening regulatory practices and enhancing the resilience of the Iraqi banking sector.

The workshop was designed to enhance participants’ technical expertise and practical understanding of new regulations issued by CBI for the capital accord for Islamic banks in Iraq.

Forty-five participants attended the workshop, representing 23 Iraqi banks, ensuring broad sectoral representation and fostering valuable exchange of knowledge, experiences, and best practices among industry professionals.

The program aimed to strengthen the technical knowledge and practical capabilities of banking professionals in aligning with international regulatory requirements and enhancing the resilience of the financial sector.

The workshop provided an in-depth overview of the capital adequacy framework, focusing on its role in promoting financial stability, improving risk management practices, and ensuring that banks maintain sufficient capital buffers to withstand potential shocks.

Participants engaged in interactive sessions, practical exercises, and case studies designed to bridge theory with real-world application. Key topics included:

  • Measurement and management of credit, market, and operational risks
  • Calculation methodologies under capital adequacy frameworks
  • Supervisory expectations and regulatory compliance
  • Practical implementation challenges and solutions within the banking environment

The program emphasized hands-on learning, allowing participants to analyze case studies and discuss various risk scenarios to better understand how capital adequacy principles can be effectively applied in day-to-day banking operations. The workshop was delivered by Dr. Abozer Mohamed, Senior Islamic Finance Specialist at IsDBI, and Mr. Mohamed Omer Elamin, a member of the IFSB Secretariat.

– on behalf of Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI).

Social media handles:
X (Twitter): https://apo-opa.co/46gR5lN
Facebook:  https://apo-opa.co/3OOo8Ym
LinkedIn:  https://apo-opa.co/4rJADU1

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/

Law firm appointed to probe death of Grade R learner

Source: Government of South Africa

Law firm appointed to probe death of Grade R learner

The Gauteng Department of Education has appointed an Independent Investigative Law Firm to probe the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of Grade R learner, Manqoba Mnisi.

The learner from Bernard Isaacs Primary School in Coronationville, Johannesburg, tragically passed away on Monday, 2 February, following an incident that occurred on the school premises. 

The unclear details surrounding the learner’s death prompted the Gauteng Department of Education to institute an independent investigation to establish the full facts surrounding the matter.

“The department remains unwavering in its commitment to establishing the truth. We have full confidence in the independence and capability of Buthelezi-Vilakazi Incorporated to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation. 

“Whatever findings emerge from this process will be acted upon decisively, as has been the case with previous independent investigations undertaken by the department,” MEC for Education Matome Chiloane said on Thursday.

The MEC formally introduced the law firm to the Mnisi family and school, including the School Management Team and the School Governing Body (SGB).

The terms of reference and scope for Buthelezi-Vilakazi Incorporated are as follows:

  • To investigate the allegations surrounding Mnisi’s death with the District Director, Circuit Manager, Cluster Leader, the Principal, the Educator(s), the General Assistant, the deceased’s parent(s), the Security Officers, and the community members mentioned, learners at the school, and any other relevant witnesses. 
  • The investigation must include clear findings that complement specific recommendations on matters relating to Education Laws, South African Schools Act, Employment Equity Act, Children’s Act, and any other relevant laws.

The scope of investigations will involve: whether there are merits to the allegations; the circumstances around the allegations; the conduct of the educator(s); the School Management Team and the Principal; whether the matter was reported to department; the cause of death of the learner;  whether any employees of the department failed to observe their legal obligations in relation to the care of the learner; whether the department is liable or not; whether or not there was any omission on the part of the department, and what the department can do to address the problem; whether there is a general problem of this nature at the school; the role if any of the School Governing Body; whether counselling was provided or not; and whether it is necessary to provide it now.

“The law firm has two weeks to conduct its investigation, after which it will provide a report with findings and recommendations. The MEC reiterated the department’s determination to uncover the truth of what transpired, noting the commitment is shared by the Mnisi family,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle

55 views

Cameroon’s Nine‑Block Licensing Round Offers High‑Value Entry Point for Upstream Investors

Source: APO


.

Nine exploration and production blocks are now avaialble in Cameroon’s latest licensing round. Spanning two proven basins, the tender – managed by the National Hydrocarbons Corporation (SNH) – is accepting proposals through March 30, 2026, ahead of a final decision in late April. Launched on August 1, 2025, the round includes three blocks in the Rio del Rey (RDR) basin – Ndian River, Bolongo Exploration and Bakassi – and six in the Douala/Kribi‑Campo (DKC) basin – Etinde Exploration, Bomono, Nkombe‑Nsepe, Tilapia, Ntem and Elombo. Strategically located near existing producing fields, these blocks feature prior drilling, 2D and 3D seismic coverage and identified leads and undrilled prospects, giving investors immediate insight into exploration and development potential.

Competitive Framework Attracts Investors

Cameroon’s licensing round accommodates multiple contractual frameworks, including Concession Contracts, Production Sharing Contracts and Risk Service Contracts. Exploration periods vary by block: Bolongo, Bomono, Etinde Exploration, Tilapia, Ntem and Elombo have an initial three-year term, renewable twice for two-year periods, while Bakassi, Kombe-Nsepe and Ndian River have five-year initial terms, also renewable.

Companies must submit proposals including technical evaluations, minimum work programs, budgets, environmental and social commitments and local content plans. Minimum work programs require drilling exploration wells, seismic acquisition and geoscience studies, while negotiable fiscal terms – profit-oil/gas shares, royalties and cost oil/cost gas – ensure competitive commercial conditions.

This transparency and flexibility reflect SNH’s strategy to restore investor confidence, particularly as mature fields face natural production decline. The government has also enhanced openness by publishing full data packages and bid criteria, with data rooms accessible in Yaoundé and abroad.

“What makes Cameroon’s licensing round so compelling is the quality of the technical data available,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “Investors can clearly see the reservoir potential, plan their drilling strategies and structure financing with confidence. Beyond the data, Cameroon has created a transparent and competitive framework, with clear contract terms and open negotiations, giving companies the certainty they need to move capital and execute projects effectively.”

Why Investors Should Take Notice Now

Cameroon’s RDR and DKC basins are proven hydrocarbon provinces with existing infrastructure and nearby producing fields – factors that significantly reduce technical risk and lower entry barriers. The comprehensive data and transparent terms allow investors to build well-informed economic models and financing structures ahead of the March 2026 bid closure.

For independents and majors alike, the round offers early entry into blocks with confirmed leads, potential for material discoveries and the ability to shape work programs that align with both exploration risk and capital capability. Cameroon’s willingness to negotiate fiscal terms and provide incentives in “exceptional circumstances” further differentiates this round from more rigid licensing environments.

“Both onshore and offshore, Cameroon possesses immense and largely untapped energy potential, underpinned by proven oil reserves and significant gas resources. These gas assets present a major opportunity not only to support domestic development and diversify the country’s energy mix, but also to position Cameroon as a competitive exporter to global markets,” continues Ayuk. “The current licensing round reflects this dual opportunity: unique onshore projects tailored to serve domestic demand are well suited to independents and African operators, while the LNG potential of large offshore gas discoveries should attract major international companies.”

Strategic Platform: From Paris to Cape Town

The timing of this round aligns with two key platforms for African energy investment. The Invest in African Energy Forum (IAE 2026), on April 22–23 in Paris, brings together investors, DFIs and technical partners to review Africa’s leading energy opportunities and forge partnerships. IAE has a proven track record as a precursor to signed commitments, providing access to project pipelines and opportunities for early-stage engagement. Deals and discussions initiated in Paris can be further developed at African Energy Week (AEW 2026) in Cape Town (October 12–16), where high-level engagement across the value chain advances financing, partnerships and project execution.

With data consultation ongoing and bids recently submitted, Cameroon’s licensing round represents a timely, high-value opportunity for investors and operators. Leveraging IAE and AEW allows companies to turn technical potential into regional partnerships, financed projects, and operational success, positioning Cameroon as a key frontier for exploration in Central Africa.

“Realizing the full value of Cameroon’s oil and gas resources will require strategic planning for both discovered and yet-to-find reserves, alongside a clear vision for their role in domestic and international energy markets. We are confident this licensing round provides that pathway and strongly encourage investors to take a close look at Cameroon,” concludes Ayuk.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Le cycle d’octroi de licences pour neuf blocs au Cameroun offre un point d’entrée très intéressant pour les investisseurs en amont

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Neuf blocs d’exploration et de production sont désormais disponibles dans le cadre du dernier cycle d’octroi de licences du Cameroun. Couvrant deux bassins confirmés, l’appel d’offres, géré par la Société nationale des hydrocarbures (SNH), accepte les propositions jusqu’au 30 mars 2026, avant une décision finale fin avril. Lancé le 1er août 2025, cet appel d’offres comprend trois blocs dans le bassin Rio del Rey (RDR) – Ndian River, Bolongo Exploration et Bakassi – et six dans le bassin Douala/Kribi-Campo (DKC) – Etinde Exploration, Bomono, Nkombe-Nsepe, Tilapia, Ntem et Elombo. Stratégiquement situés à proximité des champs de production existants, ces blocs ont déjà fait l’objet de forages, de levés sismiques 2D et 3D et comportent des prospects identifiés et non forés, ce qui permet aux investisseurs d’avoir un aperçu immédiat du potentiel d’exploration et de développement.

Un cadre concurrentiel qui attire les investisseurs

Le cycle d’octroi de licences du Cameroun prévoit plusieurs cadres contractuels, notamment des contrats de concession, des contrats de partage de production et des contrats de services à risque. Les périodes d’exploration varient selon les blocs : Bolongo, Bomono, Etinde Exploration, Tilapia, Ntem et Elombo ont une durée initiale de trois ans, renouvelable deux fois pour des périodes de deux ans, tandis que Bakassi, Kombe-Nsepe et Ndian River ont une durée initiale de cinq ans, également renouvelable.

Les entreprises doivent soumettre des propositions comprenant des évaluations techniques, des programmes de travail minimaux, des budgets, des engagements environnementaux et sociaux et des plans de potentiel local. Les programmes de travail minimaux exigent le forage de puits d’exploration, l’acquisition de données sismiques et des études géoscientifiques, tandis que les conditions fiscales négociables (parts de bénéfices pétroliers/gaziers, redevances et coût du pétrole/gaz) garantissent des conditions commerciales compétitives.

Cette transparence et cette flexibilité reflètent la stratégie de la SNH visant à restaurer la confiance des investisseurs, en particulier alors que les champs matures sont confrontés à un déclin naturel de la production. Le gouvernement a également renforcé la transparence en publiant l’ensemble des données et les critères d’appel d’offres, avec des salles de données accessibles à Yaoundé et à l’étranger.

« Ce qui rend le cycle d’octroi de licences du Cameroun si attrayant, c’est la qualité des données techniques disponibles », explique NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie. « Les investisseurs peuvent clairement voir le potentiel des réservoirs, planifier leurs stratégies de forage et structurer leur financement en toute confiance. Au-delà des données, le Cameroun a créé un cadre transparent et compétitif, avec des conditions contractuelles claires et des négociations ouvertes, donnant aux entreprises la certitude dont elles ont besoin pour mobiliser des capitaux et exécuter efficacement leurs projets. »

Pourquoi les investisseurs devraient-ils y prêter attention dès maintenant ?

Les bassins RDR et DKC du Cameroun sont des provinces hydrocarbures confirmées, dotées d’infrastructures existantes et de champs de production à proximité, des facteurs qui réduisent considérablement les risques techniques et les barrières à l’entrée. Les données complètes et les conditions transparentes permettent aux investisseurs d’élaborer des modèles économiques et des structures de financement bien informés avant la clôture des offres en mars 2026.

Pour les indépendants comme pour les grands groupes, ce cycle offre une entrée précoce dans des blocs présentant des prospects confirmés, un potentiel de découvertes importantes et la possibilité d’élaborer des programmes de travail adaptés à la fois au risque d’exploration et à la capacité financière. La volonté du Cameroun de négocier les conditions fiscales et d’offrir des incitations dans des « circonstances exceptionnelles » différencie encore davantage ce cycle des environnements d’octroi de licences plus rigides.

« Tant à terre qu’en mer, le Cameroun possède un potentiel énergétique immense et largement inexploité, soutenu par des réserves de pétrole prouvées et d’importantes ressources gazières. Ces actifs gaziers représentent une opportunité majeure non seulement pour soutenir le développement national et diversifier le mix énergétique du pays, mais aussi pour positionner le Cameroun comme un exportateur compétitif sur les marchés mondiaux », poursuit M. Ayuk. « Le cycle d’octroi de licences actuel reflète cette double opportunité : les projets terrestres uniques adaptés à la demande nationale conviennent parfaitement aux indépendants et aux opérateurs africains, tandis que le potentiel GNL des grandes découvertes de gaz offshore devrait attirer les grandes entreprises internationales. »

Plateforme stratégique : de Paris au Cap

Le calendrier de ce cycle coïncide avec deux plateformes clés pour l’investissement énergétique en Afrique. Le Forum Invest in African Energy (IAE 2026), qui se tiendra les 22 et 23 avril à Paris, réunira des investisseurs, des institutions financières de développement et des partenaires techniques afin d’examiner les principales opportunités énergétiques en Afrique et de forger des partenariats. L’IAE a fait ses preuves en tant que précurseur des engagements signés, offrant un accès aux projets en cours et des opportunités d’engagement à un stade précoce. Les accords et les discussions initiés à Paris peuvent être développés lors de l’African Energy Week (AEW 2026) au Cap (du 12 au 16 octobre), où un engagement de haut niveau tout au long de la chaîne de valeur favorise le financement, les partenariats et l’exécution des projets.

Avec la consultation des données en cours et les offres récemment soumises, le cycle d’octroi de licences du Cameroun représente une opportunité opportune et de grande valeur pour les investisseurs et les opérateurs. Tirer parti de l’IAE et de l’AEW permet aux entreprises de transformer le potentiel technique en partenariats régionaux, en projets financés et en succès opérationnels, positionnant le Cameroun comme une frontière clé pour l’exploration en Afrique centrale.

« Pour exploiter pleinement la valeur des ressources pétrolières et gazières du Cameroun, il faudra une planification stratégique pour les réserves découvertes et celles qui restent à découvrir, ainsi qu’une vision claire de leur rôle sur les marchés énergétiques nationaux et internationaux. Nous sommes convaincus que ce cycle d’octroi de licences ouvre la voie à cela et nous encourageons vivement les investisseurs à s’intéresser de près au Cameroun », conclut M. Ayuk.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.