Category: Africa

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Government calls on private sector to partner in enhancing conservation

Source: Government of South Africa

Government calls on private sector to partner in enhancing conservation

Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Narend Singh, has called on the private sector to partner with government to slow biodiversity loss, restore critical habitats, and secure the ecological infrastructure that supports the economy.

This as the National Biodiversity Assessment (NBA) paints a concerning picture of the state of the country’s biodiversity, showing that nearly one-third of terrestrial ecosystems are classified as threatened.

“Pressures on biodiversity are intensifying habitat loss from agriculture, settlements, mining and infrastructure development, invasive alien species, pollution, overexploitation, and climate change continue to drive ecosystem degradation and species decline. 

“Freshwater systems — rivers, wetlands and estuaries — are among the most threatened,” Singh said on Thursday at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden in Johannesburg.

According to the Deputy Minister, through concerted, collaborative efforts, South Africa can slow biodiversity loss, restore critical habitats, and secure the ecological infrastructure that supports the economy and environmental well-being. 

“Our Water Source Areas — mountain catchments, wetlands and rivers — cover only 10% of our land, yet supply more than 50% of the country’s water. 

“These areas face severe pressure from pollution, invasive species and altered flows. While some progress has been made, far more urgent action is required to protect this vital ecological infrastructure for water security. 

“Healthy freshwater flows to estuaries and oceans are equally important for marine fisheries and coastal resilience. Our terrestrial and marine ecosystems are vast, but pressures are concentrated in specific landscapes,” he said.

This demands smart spatial prioritisation — ensuring every rand invested in restoration delivers maximum impact, especially in degraded wetlands, estuaries, and coastal zones.

“Encouragingly, some species have shown improved protection status through our protected areas and stewardship programmes. These successes prove what is possible when conservation efforts are sustained and well-supported.

“Ultimately, our success will be measured by strengthened livelihoods, restored ecosystems, and robust environmental governance built on trust. This is where the private sector plays a vital role,” the Deputy Minister said.

He emphasised that meaningful progress depends on policy reform, targeted finance, and strong partnerships. 

“Public–private partnerships (PPPs) have proven powerful, enabling the private sector to drive investment, create jobs, and advance shared goals through corporate social responsibility and innovation.

“Sound environmental governance requires modernising our regulatory frameworks to make them more transparent, efficient, and aligned with the objectives of people, planet and prosperity. Strong institutions — both public and private — are essential for building peaceful, just, and inclusive societies,” the Deputy Minister said.

He pointed out that by forging innovative partnerships across government, business and civil society, South Africa can overcome barriers such as data gaps and regulatory challenges and fully unlock the potential of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) frameworks and sustainable investment.

An ESG framework is a structured set of guidelines, metrics and standards used by companies to measure, manage, and report their Environmental, Social, and Governance performance. 

The frameworks facilitate transparent disclosure of sustainability data to stakeholders, covering areas like carbon emissions, labour practices and board diversity, allowing for consistent evaluation of risks and opportunities

“A collaborative, whole-of-society approach to conserving our natural assets will be central to achieving our social and economic development goals. It requires coordinated action, secure livelihoods, and a nation united in purpose.

“I therefore call on the business community to partner with us in the conservation and infrastructure enhancement of South Africa’s national botanical and zoological gardens. Your support can expand these spaces, improve visitor experiences, advance research and education, and contribute directly to national biodiversity targets,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Cold weather to dominate SA

Source: Government of South Africa

Cold weather to dominate SA

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) says a period of cold, wet and windy weather conditions is expected to affect large parts of the country from Friday through to Monday, 20 April.

“This change in weather is associated with the passage of two consecutive cold fronts making landfall over the western parts of South Africa. Initially, these systems are expected to impact the Western Cape and Northern Cape before spreading eastwards across the central and eastern interior over the weekend,” the weather service said.

Daytime maximum temperatures are expected to drop significantly, with some high-lying areas in the western interior and adjacent regions possibly experiencing daytime temperatures between 10°C and 12°C. 

These conditions, combined with strong winds, will result in a pronounced wind chill effect. By contrast, the northern extremities of the country are expected to remain relatively warm during this period.

Moreover, marine conditions are expected to deteriorate, with wave heights along the coastline forecast to reach between 4.0 and 5.0 metres from Sunday into Monday, potentially impacting coastal and beach activities. 

From Friday, 17 April, cold, wet and windy conditions will dominate the western interior, including parts of the Western Cape and Northern Cape. 

By Saturday, 18 April, the cold airmass will penetrate further into the central interior, while the cold front progresses further east of the country. 

“Widespread cool to cold conditions are expected across much of South Africa. Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are forecast over the central and eastern provinces, including the Free State, North West, Gauteng, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal.

“By Sunday, 19 April, cold, wet and windy conditions will have spread to the eastern and southern parts of the country, including the southern and eastern coastline of South Africa,” SAWS said.

The impact of these weather conditions are as follows:

  • Cold, wet and windy conditions may result in a significant wind chill factor, making temperatures feel colder than measured.
  • Localised flooding of low-lying areas and poor drainage systems may occur in regions experiencing persistent rainfall.
  • Disruptions to outdoor and beachfront activities are possible due to strong winds and rough seas.
  • Reduced visibility and slippery roads may impact travel conditions.

The public is advised to take the following precautionary measures:

  • Dress warmly and ensure adequate heating in homes. 
  • Use heating devices safely to avoid fire hazards. 
  • Exercise caution when travelling on wet and slippery roads. 
  • Avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall. 
  • Secure loose outdoor objects that may be affected by strong winds. 
  • Stay away from the coastline during rough sea conditions. 
  • Continuously monitor official weather updates and warnings issued by SAWS.

–SAnews.gov.za

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JSC disagrees with Tribunal finding in Judge Mbenenge matter

Source: Government of South Africa

JSC disagrees with Tribunal finding in Judge Mbenenge matter

 The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has overturned the decision by the Judicial Conduct Tribunal into the complaint of Andiswa Mengo against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge.

This follows a meeting held last month whereby the JSC, excluding the members designated by the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces, held a meeting in terms of section 20(1) of the Judicial Service Commission Act 9 of 1994 (JSC Act), to consider the report of the Judicial Conduct Tribunal into Mengo’s complaint.

This as the Tribunal had earlier found Judge President Mbenenge not guilty of misconduct not amounting to gross misconduct and not guilty of gross misconduct, gross incompetence and/or gross incapacity under section 177 of the Constitution. 

Section 177 of the Constitution deals with the removal of a judge. 

“At the invitation of the Commission, the parties made written representations which the meeting considered together with the report of the Tribunal.

“After consideration of the report of the Tribunal and representations of the parties made in terms of section 20(2) of the JSC Act, the Commission did not accept the findings of the Tribunal that Judge President Mbenenge is guilty of misconduct not amounting to gross misconduct. The Commission found that on the common cause facts, the conduct of Judge President Mbenenge constitutes gross misconduct in terms of section 177(1)(a) of the Constitution,” said the Commission.

Section 177(a) of the Constitution states that a judge may be removed from office only if the Judicial Service Commission finds that the judge suffers from an incapacity, is grossly incompetent or is guilty of gross misconduct; and (b) the National Assembly calls for that judge to be removed by a resolution adopted with a supporting vote of at least two thirds of its members. 

In a statement on Thursday, the JSC said it will submit to the Speaker of the National Assembly its finding, together with reasons and a copy of the report in accordance with section 20(4) of the JSC Act. 

“The Commission has invited the parties to make written submissions whether, pending the process in terms of section 177(1) of the Constitution, the Commission should advise the President in terms of section 177(3) to suspend Judge President Mbenenge pending the process in section 177(1),” said the JSC.  
 

The report can be accessed here: JSC Report Mengo v Mbenenge JP matter – April 2026. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento e Mecanismo Europeu de Estabilidade assinam Memorando de Entendimento para melhorar cooperação

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (BAD) (www.AfDB.org) e o Mecanismo Europeu de Estabilidade (MEE) assinaram na quarta-feira, 15 de abril de 2026, um Memorando de Entendimento (MoU) para formalizar e reforçar a cooperação entre as duas instituições. A assinatura teve lugar à margem dos Encontros da Primavera de 2026 do Fundo Monetário Internacional e do Grupo Banco Mundial, em Washington DC. 

A cooperação ao abrigo do acordo centrar-se-á no reforço de capacidades, na partilha de conhecimentos e na investigação, bem como na cooperação através do diá. técnico, da troca de informações, de seminários conjuntos e de interações a nível do pessoal, sujeita às regras e procedimentos internos de ambas as instituições.

“Num mundo que se tornou mais propenso a choques frequentes, a preparação através da cooperação é essencial”, afirmou o Diretor-Geral do MEE, Pierre Gramegna. “Este MoU proporciona um quadro estruturado para aprofundar o nosso diá. com o BAD e partilhar experiências em áreas como o financiamento de mercado, a governação e a prevenção e gestão de crises”.

“Este acordo reflete o nosso compromisso com intercâmbios mutuamente benéficos”, afirmou o Presidente do BAD, Sidi Ould Tah. “Ao formalizar a nossa cooperação com o MEE, estamos a reforçar a nossa capacidade de recorrer às melhores práticas internacionais, nomeadamente no contexto dos esforços para estabelecer o Mecanismo Africano de Estabilidade Financeira, uma prioridade aprovada pelos Chefes de Estado e de Governo da União Africana. África continua a ser a única região sem um mecanismo regional dedicado à estabilidade financeira, e esta cooperação será fundamental para ajudar a salvaguardar a estabilidade financeira na região”.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contacto para os media:
Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento
Amba, Mpoke-Bigg,
Departamento de Comunicação e Relações Externas, 
media@afdb.org

Mecanismo Europeu de Estabilidade
Anabela Reis, 
Departamento de Comunicação, 
A.Reis@esm.europa.eu

Sobre o Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento:
O Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento é a principal instituição financeira de desenvolvimento em África. Inclui três entidades distintas: o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (AfDB), o Fundo Africano de Desenvolvimento (ADF) e o Fundo Fiduciário da Nigéria (NTF). Presente no terreno em 41 países africanos, com uma representação externa no Japão, o Banco contribui para o desenvolvimento económico e o progresso social dos seus 54 Estados-membros. Mais informações em www.AfDB.org/pt

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La Banque africaine de développement et le Mécanisme européen de stabilité signent un protocole d’accord pour renforcer leur coopération

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org) et le Mécanisme européen de stabilité (MES) ont signé, ce mercredi 15 avril à Washington, un protocole d’accord visant à formaliser et à renforcer la coopération entre les deux institutions. La signature a eu lieu en marge des réunions de printemps 2026 du Fonds monétaire international et du Groupe de la Banque mondiale.

Dans le cadre de cet accord, la coopération se concentrera sur le renforcement des capacités, le partage des connaissances et la recherche, ainsi que sur l’engagement à travers un dialogue technique, un échange d’informations, des séminaires conjoints et des interactions entre les personnels, dans le respect des règles et procédures internes des deux institutions.

« Dans un monde de plus en plus sujet à des chocs fréquents, la préparation par la coopération est essentielle, a déclaré Pierre Gramegna, directeur général du MES. Ce protocole d’accord fournit un cadre structuré pour approfondir notre dialogue avec la Banque africaine de développement et partager notre expérience dans des domaines tels que le financement de marché, la gouvernance, la prévention et la gestion des crises. »

« Cet accord reflète notre engagement en faveur d’échanges mutuellement bénéfiques, a souligné Dr Sidi Ould Tah, président du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement. En formalisant notre coopération avec le MES, nous renforçons notre capacité à nous inspirer des meilleures pratiques internationales, notamment dans le cadre des efforts visant à mettre en place le Mécanisme africain de stabilité financière, une priorité approuvée par les chefs d’État et de gouvernement de l’Union africaine. L’Afrique est la seule région à ne pas disposer d’un mécanisme régional de stabilité financière, et cette coopération contribuera à préserver la stabilité financière dans la région. »

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

Contact médias :
Banque africaine de développement :
Amba Mpoke-Bigg 
Département de la communication et des relations extérieures
courriel : media@afdb.org

Mécanisme européen de stabilité :
Anabela Reis, directrice adjointe de la communication  
courriel : A.Reis@esm.europa.eu

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African Development Bank, The European Stability Mechanism (ESM) sign Memorandum of Understanding to enhance cooperation

Source: APO

The African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) and The European Stability Mechanism (ESM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalise and strengthen cooperation between the two institutions. The signing took place on Wednesday 15 April, on the margins of the 2026 Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group in Washington DC. 

Cooperation under the agreement will focus on capacity building, knowledge sharing and research, as well as cooperation through technical dialogue, information exchange, joint seminars, and staff‑level interactions, subject to the internal rules and procedures of both institutions.

“In a world that has become more prone to frequent shocks, preparedness through cooperation is essential,” said ESM Managing Director Pierre Gramegna. “This MoU provides a structured framework for deepening our dialogue with the AfDB and sharing experience in areas such as market funding, governance, and crisis prevention and management.”

“This agreement reflects our commitment to mutually beneficial exchanges,” African Development Bank Group President Sidi Ould Tah, said. “By formalising our cooperation with the ESM, we are strengthening our ability to draw on international best practices, including in the context of efforts to establish the African Financial Stability Mechanism, a priority endorsed by African Union Heads of State and Government. Africa remains the only region without a dedicated regional financial stability mechanism, and this cooperation will be instrumental in helping safeguard financial stability in the region.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact:
African Development Bank:
Amba Mpoke-Bigg
Communication and External Relations Department,
email: media@afdb.org

European Stability Mechanism (ESM):
Anabela Reis
Deputy Head of Communications
email: A.Reis@esm.europa.eu

About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

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Seeing the Unseen – How Canon is Protecting East Africa’s Coral Reefs

Source: APO

The video below is copyright free and can be used at will, without asking for authorization

Watch the video

Beneath the waves of East Africa, vibrant coral reefs tell a story of both beauty and vulnerability. With reefs around the world disappearing at an alarming rate, Canon Central and East Africa (www.Canon-CNA.com) is stepping in, expanding its Coral Conservation initiative and bringing this effort to life in a compelling new video. More than documentation, the video highlights a mission: harnessing imaging technology to shine a light on fragile ecosystems, rally communities, and turn awareness into tangible conservation impact, one frame at a time.

In collaboration with Kenya’s Oceans Alive Foundation, the East Africa project focuses on coral reef restoration, environmental monitoring, and community-led conservation efforts along Kenya’s coastline. Leveraging advanced imaging technologies, Canon supports the documentation of reef health, enhances scientific research, and fuels education and awareness efforts that empower local communities to safeguard their marine environments.

Through this initiative, Canon demonstrates the powerful impact of imaging technology, partnerships, and visual storytelling in supporting practical environmental outcomes. By making the unseen visible, Canon is reinforcing its long-term commitment to responsible innovation, sustainability, and community engagement across Africa.

Read the full Press Release: http://apo-opa.co/3ObiW13

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

APO Group – PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com

About Canon Central and North Africa
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (www.Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.

Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (http://apo-opa.co/41yzdQJ) – ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

For more information: www.Canon-CNA.com

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Sintana Listing Signals New Era for Local Ownership in Namibia’s Oil and Gas Sector

Source: APO


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Canadian-based oil and gas company Sintana Energy has announced its intention to list the company’s shares on the Namibian Securities Exchange, signaling a shift toward inclusive growth and early-stage local participation in one of Africa’s most promising frontier oil and gas markets. The move reflects the company’s overall strategy to explore options to provide and develop liquidity for local investors, ensuring Namibians are not merely spectators to the country’s hydrocarbon boom, but active participants in the value chain from the outset.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) welcomes the listing as a strategic and forward-looking move that reflects the type of market-driven solutions needed to advance energy development across the continent. As Namibia moves toward first oil production by 2030, Sintana’s listing reinforces the importance of structuring the industry to deliver tangible benefits to citizens today. By enabling local ownership through public market access, Sintana is aligning national economic interests with upstream growth.  

Sintana Energy has already started discussions with the Namibia Securities Exchange and has engaged IJG Securities Ltd. as its sponsor and corporate advisor. Spearheaded in part by Knowledge Katti, Director of Sintana and Chairman of Custos Energy, the move reflects a growing recognition that ownership and access must be broadened if the full economic potential of hydrocarbons is to be realized. Katti highlighted that Sintana’s listing is a reflection of a vision to see Namibians – particularly youth – become true participants in the emerging oil and gas sector. He described the listing as more than a financial opportunity; but as a chance for Namibians to diversify their futures, build generational wealth and hold a direct stake in the energy sector.

“Sintana’s listing is a powerful example of how Africa’s energy sector can be structured to deliver real, immediate benefits to its people. Namibia is showing that local ownership does not have to wait until production – it can and should begin at the exploration stage. This is the kind of leadership and innovation we need to see across the continent,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC.

The listing comes as a pivotal time for both Sintana Energy and Namibia. With exposure to blocks in the Orange Basin, Sintana Energy is advancing several ambitious exploration initiatives alongside local and international partners. At PEL 83, the project partners – including TotalEnergies (operator), Galp Energia and Sintana – recently revised the 3C contingent resources upwards to 1.38 billion barrels of oil equivalent from 875 million barrels, marking a 57% increase and highlighting the potential of the Mopane complex. The partners are planning a three-well drilling program starting in H2, 2026, following TotalEnergies’ farm-in earlier this year. FID is planned for 2028, with first oil set for 2032.

Sintana Energy also holds a 7.4% indirect carried interest in PEL 87 – home to Blocks 2713A and 2713B, operated by Pancontinental Energy. In March 2026, the partners received government approval to extend the First Renewal Exploration Period by 12 months to January 22, 2027. During this period, the partners will undertake an Environmental Impact Assessment, reprocess 3D seismic data and interpretation and drill an exploration well. In the Walvis Basin, Sintana Energy signed a Letter of Intent for a period of exclusivity for an indirect interest in PEL 37 – currently owned and operated by Paragon Oil and Gas. Under the agreement, Sintana has until April 30, 2026 to undertake technical, commercial and legal due diligence on Paragon and PEL 37, with a view to potentially farm-into the asset.

Stepping into this picture, Sintana’s upcoming listing demonstrates a commitment to aligning its investment strategy with Namibia’s long-term economic ambitions. By prioritizing inclusion, transparency and early participation, the company is not only advancing its upstream strategy, but setting a new standard for how companies engage local communities. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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The crisis in the Middle East could cost Africa 0.2 percent in economic growth in 2026

Source: APO

The crisis in the Middle East is impacting global economies, with growth in African countries forecast to decline by up to 0.2 percent.

Download document 1: https://apo-opa.co/4mBpy5u
Download document 2: https://apo-opa.co/484mxEK

This is according to a joint policy document presented on Tuesday, 15 April 2026, in Washington, D.C., by the African Union Commission, the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The report, entitled “Impacts of the Conflict in the Middle East on African Economies,” warns that African economies, which were slowly recovering from the severe consequences of COVID-19, the Russia–Ukraine war, and rising trade tariffs, could be among the most affected by the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

Kevin Urama, Chief Economist and Vice President for Economic Governance and Knowledge Management at AfDB, presented the report on the sidelines of the Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. He emphasized that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz had significant consequences for transport and trade.

“The report reminds us that the continent demonstrates remarkable resilience,” said Francisca Tatchouop Belobe, African Union Commissioner for Economic Affairs, Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Mining.

The report says the main effects of Middle Eastern conflicts on African economies include surging prices of hydrocarbons, food products, and fertilizers. They also cause disruptions to global trade, logistics, and supply chains, and made capital and foreign exchange markets volatile.

“Eighty percent of the oil imported into Africa comes from this region, as well as 50% of refined petroleum,” said Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of the ECA. As a result of these conflicts, 31 African countries were already experiencing currency depreciation, Gatete said.

To address the crisis, AfDB Chief Economist Urama urged African governments not to panic or take hasty decisions that could harm their fiscal balances.

The report recommends, in particular, strategic inflation management to ensure short-term price stability expectations. It cautions oil-exporting countries to adopt strict fiscal discipline by managing windfall revenues prudently, while strengthening debt-monitoring, and using energy reserves strategically. Where fiscal space allows, it advises that temporary and targeted social protection measures be deployed to shield the most vulnerable populations from the crisis.

However, the report urges governments to avoid broad-based subsidies that could worsen long-term fiscal deficits, and to diversify sources of energy, inputs, and food supplies.

 It also recommends that African governments strengthen regional and intra-African trade in oil and fertilizer markets to enhance resilience; and ensure smooth inter-institutional coordination to harmonize strategic monetary and fiscal policies.

At the same time, the report calls upon development partners, multilateral banks, and development finance institutions to provide emergency support to African countries through crisis response measures and technical assistance.

It also recommends that the operationalization of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is operalionalised speedily, while strengthening large-scale domestic capital mobilisation. The report also encourages Africa to diversify its energy mix by accelerating investments in renewable energy and the gas sector.

It urges stakeholders in Africa’s financial ecosystem to speed up the implementation of the New African Financial Architecture for Development (NAFAD), for which AfDB has recently concluded continent-wide consultations. Those consultations led to the “Abidjan Consensus” on 9 April, 2026, in the Ivorian commercial capital. They are aimed at speeding up reforms towards mobilising African financial resources at scale to boost development financing across the continent.

United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed called for measures “to safeguard the gains already achieved at continental level. “We must work to ensure that the Sustainable Development Goals under the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063 are achieved,” she stated.

For the Senior Vice President of AfDB, Marie-Laure Akin-Olugbagde, “there is a need for global coordination, as no country or institution can face these shocks alone. In addition, a rapid response is essential, as was the case during the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, and people must be placed at the center of interventions.”

“The shocks affect us deeply, and we have no choice but to be resilient—and African countries have the means to respond,” emphasized Ahunna Ezioknwa, Director of the UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa. “In Africa, we need to win the fight for energy independence… We must invest in domestic solutions and encourage young people to engage in innovation, digital technology, and artificial intelligence,” she added.

After the presentation of the report, a panel discussed its content and proposed further solutions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

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L’introduction en bourse de Sintana marque le début d’une nouvelle ère pour la participation locale dans le secteur pétrolier et gazier namibien

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


La société pétrolière et gazière canadienne Sintana Energy a annoncé son intention d’introduire ses actions à la Bourse namibienne, marquant ainsi un tournant vers une croissance inclusive et une participation locale dès les premières phases dans l’un des marchés pétroliers et gaziers frontaliers les plus prometteurs d’Afrique. Cette initiative s’inscrit dans la stratégie globale de la société visant à explorer les options permettant d’offrir et de développer la liquidité pour les investisseurs locaux, garantissant ainsi que les Namibiens ne soient pas de simples spectateurs du boom des hydrocarbures dans leur pays, mais des participants actifs dans la chaîne de valeur dès le début.

La Chambre africaine de l’énergie (AEC) salue cette cotation comme une initiative stratégique et tournée vers l’avenir qui reflète le type de solutions axées sur le marché nécessaires pour faire progresser le développement énergétique à travers le continent. Alors que la Namibie se prépare à sa première production de pétrole d’ici 2030, l’introduction en bourse de Sintana renforce l’importance de structurer le secteur de manière à apporter des avantages tangibles aux citoyens dès aujourd’hui. En favorisant la participation locale grâce à l’accès au marché public, Sintana aligne les intérêts économiques nationaux sur la croissance en amont.  

Sintana Energy a déjà entamé des discussions avec la Bourse de Namibie et a engagé IJG Securities Ltd. en tant que sponsor et conseiller d’entreprise. Menée en partie par Knowledge Katti, directeur de Sintana et président de Custos Energy, cette initiative reflète une prise de conscience croissante selon laquelle la propriété et l’accès doivent être élargis pour que le plein potentiel économique des hydrocarbures puisse être réalisé. M. Katti a souligné que l’introduction en bourse de Sintana reflète une vision visant à faire des Namibiens – en particulier les jeunes – de véritables acteurs du secteur émergent du pétrole et du gaz. Il a décrit cette cotation comme étant plus qu’une simple opportunité financière ; c’est une chance pour les Namibiens de diversifier leur avenir, de constituer un patrimoine intergénérationnel et de détenir une participation directe dans le secteur de l’énergie.

« La cotation de Sintana est un exemple éloquent de la manière dont le secteur énergétique africain peut être structuré pour apporter des avantages réels et immédiats à ses populations. La Namibie montre que la participation locale ne doit pas attendre la phase de production : elle peut et doit commencer dès la phase d’exploration. C’est le genre de leadership et d’innovation dont nous avons besoin sur tout le continent », déclare NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de l’AEC.

Cette cotation intervient à un moment charnière tant pour Sintana Energy que pour la Namibie. Grâce à ses droits sur des blocs du bassin de l’Orange, Sintana Energy mène plusieurs initiatives d’exploration ambitieuses aux côtés de partenaires locaux et internationaux. Sur le PEL 83, les partenaires du projet – notamment TotalEnergies (opérateur), Galp Energia et Sintana – ont récemment revu à la hausse les ressources contingentes 3C, les portant de 875 millions de barils à 1,38 milliard de barils équivalent pétrole, soit une augmentation de 57 %, soulignant ainsi le potentiel du complexe de Mopane. Les partenaires prévoient un programme de forage de trois puits qui débutera au second semestre 2026, suite à l’entrée de TotalEnergies dans le projet plus tôt cette année. La décision finale d’investissement est prévue pour 2028, la première production de pétrole étant prévue pour 2032.

Sintana Energy détient également une participation indirecte de 7,4 % dans le PEL 87, qui comprend les blocs 2713A et 2713B, opérés par Pancontinental Energy. En mars 2026, les partenaires ont obtenu l’accord du gouvernement pour prolonger la première période de renouvellement de l’exploration de 12 mois, jusqu’au 22 janvier 2027. Au cours de cette période, les partenaires réaliseront une étude d’impact environnemental, retraiteront les données sismiques 3D et leur interprétation, et foreront un puits d’exploration. Dans le bassin de Walvis, Sintana Energy a signé une lettre d’intention prévoyant une période d’exclusivité pour une participation indirecte dans le PEL 37, actuellement détenu et exploité par Paragon Oil and Gas. En vertu de cet accord, Sintana dispose d’un délai allant jusqu’au 30 avril 2026 pour mener une due diligence technique, commerciale et juridique sur Paragon et le PEL 37, en vue d’une éventuelle prise de participation dans cet actif.

Dans ce contexte, la prochaine cotation en bourse de Sintana témoigne de son engagement à aligner sa stratégie d’investissement sur les ambitions économiques à long terme de la Namibie. En donnant la priorité à l’inclusion, à la transparence et à la participation précoce, la société ne se contente pas de faire progresser sa stratégie en amont, mais établit une nouvelle norme quant à la manière dont les entreprises s’engagent auprès des communautés locales.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.