Category: Africa

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Afreximbank accelerates Bahamas infrastructure modernization with US$100-million facility to Bahamas Striping Group

Source: APO

In a transformative boost to the Caribbean’s transport network, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) has announced the disbursement of a US$100 million Receivables Discounting Facility to Bahamas Striping Group of Companies Ltd (BSGC). This funding is to assist with the financing of the rehabilitation and construction of over 200 miles of critical road infrastructure across The Bahamas.

Disbursed under a Framework Agreement signed with the Government of The Bahamas on the sidelines of the 48th Conference of Heads of Governments of Caricom held in Bridgetown, Barbados in 2025, the funds are expected to allow BSGC to advance extensive national infrastructure overhaul designed to ensure safer, more durable road networks that boost commerce, tourism and logistics across the archipelago.

Afreximbank acted as the lender for the transaction, providing the facility arising from government contracts and enabling BSGC to accelerate project execution and receive advance funding for completed and certified works which include asphalt paving, road striping, safety enhancements and maintenance across multiple islands in The Bahamas.

Commenting on the transaction, Okechukwu Ihejirika, Acting COO Afreximbank, CARICOM said that the funding reflected Afreximbank’s “steadfast commitment to supporting Global Africa partners in developing trade-enabling infrastructure.”

“This facility represents an innovative approach to structured finance in cross-regional partnerships and aligns with our mandate to foster a connected Global Africa that encompasses CARICOM. By enabling these extensive road rehabilitation works, we are driving sustainable development and enhanced economic opportunities,” he said.

Mr. Ihejirika reiterated Afreximbank’s commitment to building on the partnerships forged at the Bank’s 2024 Annual Meetings and the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum, held in Nassau, The Bahamas, noting that the transaction followed the signing of a Framework Agreement with the Government of The Bahamas.

“We are grateful to Afreximbank for standing with us through every stage of the process, and we are proud that this transaction strengthens our ability to execute major projects, support our subcontractors and vendors, and scale opportunities,” said Dominic Sturrup, Executive Chairman of BSGC.

According to Atario Mitchell, President of BSGC, the US$100 million receivables factoring facility will enable these local companies to meet their financial obligations, such as paying employees, purchasing materials, and expanding operations.

“This facility gives BSGC the ability to move faster, plan better, and execute with even greater reliability across multiple islands,” said Mr. Mitchell.

The facility tied to government approved contracts directly contributes to improving road networks including paving, striping and maintenance essential for tourism,  trade and community access, while creating employment and promoting local community empowerment. It is expected to contribute to sustainable economic growth, including greater competitiveness of The Bahamas as a trade and tourism hub.

BSGC is an indigenous Bahamian-owned entity founded in 2010 and has completed over 200 projects across Nassau, Exuma and Eleuthera regions, employing over 300 persons, including subcontractors.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

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

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About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A 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), and Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-). 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

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Remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the opening of the Nelson Mandela Rules Training Academy, Drakenstein Correctional Facility, Paarl

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Director,
Minister of Correctional Services, Dr Pieter Groenewald
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Mr. Gayton McKenzie,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers 
Representatives of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime,
National Commissioner of Correctional Services, Mr. Makgothi Thobakgale,
Chaplain of the Drakenstein Correctional Facility, Rev. Dr. Eben Mourries,
Leadership and staff of the Drakenstein Correctional Facility,
Residents,
Guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,

Good morning. Goeie môre. Molweni. Sanibonani. Dumelang. Avuxeni. Lotjhani.

Thirty-six years ago – almost to the day, the eyes of the world were fixed on the gates just beyond where we stand now.

They were waiting for the moment one man would walk out of the gates of history, and into legend. 

At around four-fifteen pm local time, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, with Winnie Madikizela-Mandela beside him, walked out of the gates into the massive crowd that had gathered to greet him.

To have been there beside the father of our nation as he took his first steps as a free man, remains one of the greatest honours of my life. 

Few moments have marked me more than being witness – at close quarters, to the day that lit the path toward the birth of a new South Africa.

Today the Drakenstein Correctional Facility once again stands at the threshold of a new chapter in our country’s history.

We are here to open a training center that will carry Madiba’s name, and carry forward his legacy of service, leadership and rebuilding.

The Nelson Mandela Rules Training Academy stands as a powerful affirmation of the values Madiba stood for and lived by and that continue to guide our democracy. 

This facility will embody the letter and spirit of the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, known as the Nelson Mandela Rules – as adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2015.

Having spent 27 years in prison, Madiba stood for the fair and humane treatment of all throughout his life. 

Madiba believed that offenders are deserving of dignity, respect and humane treatment, and that that justice is not measured by how harshly we punish, but by how faithfully we uphold human dignity, even in the most difficult circumstances.

The Nelson Mandela Rules advocate for amongst others humane conditions of imprisonment, the importance of rehabilitation of offenders, the provision of educational and vocational training for inmates, and recognising the value of the work of prison staff.

Ladies and gentlemen,

We cannot talk about overcoming crime in South Africa without having a frank, honest conversation about the rehabilitation of offenders, their re-integration into society, and prevention of re-offending.  

Our people are fed up with crime, and at most times are inclined to the “lock the door and throw away the key” mentality when it comes to offenders.

Yet this will not serve us in the long term as a country.

Offenders come from communities, from families. 

They are mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, daughters and sons. They are husbands, wives, partners, friends and colleagues. In as much as far too many in our country have been impacted by crime, there are also many families across the country from whence the offenders came, and they too have suffered. 

Once they have served their sentences, ex-offenders are released back into the community.  It is therefore a priority that we ensure that they are rehabilitated and provided with the necessary support to successfully reintegrate into society. 

The reality is that we have fallen far short of this objective. Last year the Minister of Correctional Services disclosed that over the past three years more than 18 000 ex-offenders out on parole re-offended, including for serious crimes.

Ex-offenders face many challenges when they exit prison, particularly the stigma of having been behind bars. 

Many lack basic financial stability. Because they have a criminal record it is difficult, if not impossible to find work. Many ex-offenders leave prison with untreated mental health and substance abuse problems. Rebuilding trust with family members and friends is perhaps the hardest of all.

Countless offenders return to the same environment that contributed to them offending, where they are exposed to violence and drugs. Ex-offenders who were members of gangs inside prison are pressured to stay affiliated to the gang even when outside the prison walls.

Facing social stigma, an unwelcoming environment and social isolation, far too many return to a life of crime. 

The Nelson Mandela Rules Training Academy is determined to break this cycle.

Last year work commenced on refurbishing the Drakenstein Management Area Training Center into this new facility. 

It will focus on providing education, skills training and support to inmates in line with the Nelson Mandela Rules – extending the vistas of opportunity to inmates in preparation for life outside prison, and those serving long sentences, a chance to better themselves.

I am told this is the first such facility of its kind on the African continent, so it will serve as a knowledge hub not only for South African officials, but also for the global corrections community. 

This is not merely a building, but a story.

You are welcomed by striking artwork depicting Madiba’s art created by offenders themselves. This is not incidental. It is deeply symbolic. It reflects the very essence of rehabilitation. It is about unlocking the human potential, creativity and self-worth.

The furniture that fills this academy has also been produced by offenders within our correctional system. Every table, every chair, every crafted piece speaks to the power of skills development, meaningful work and desire for change.

Today we open a repurposed, renovated and expanded facility, transformed into a modern training academy. One cannot help but marvel at the quality of workmanship. 

It fills me with pride to appreciate work of such high standard being produced by local hands, by men and women within our correctional system.

Working together with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime as the custodian of the Nelson Mandela Rules, this academy will ensure that training, practice and policy are firmly guided by the values Madiba stood for.

This facility symbolises the humanisation of corrections, the elevation of dignity, and the global pursuit of justice rooted in humanity.

Allow me to pay tribute to the men and women of the Department of Correctional Services who perform one of the most demanding and often unrecognised duties in our public service. 

Every day, correctional officials work under difficult and sometimes dangerous conditions. Your responsibility goes beyond custody and security. You have the duty to transform lives and instil hope where there is often despair. 

We appreciate and acknowledge the challenges posed by overcrowding and resource constraints. However, I take great encouragement from the efforts within the Department to advance self-sufficiency and sustainability, skills development and productive work, ensuring that correctional facilities become places of rehabilitation rather than mere containment. 

Your commitment affirms that even in the most difficult circumstances, our correctional system remains anchored in humanity, professionalism and service to the nation.

May this academy stand as a living tribute to Nelson Mandela’s legacy.  May it shape generations of correctional practitioners committed to dignity and reform.

I thank you.

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President Ramaphosa to set out national progress and challenges in State of the Nation Address

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa will tomorrow, Thursday, 12 February 2026, deliver the State of the Nation Address (SONA) to a Joint Sitting of the two Houses of Parliament, the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), at Cape Town City Hall.

The State of the Nation Address is an annual overview delivered by the President to mobilise all sectors of society to secure ongoing development in the country.

The Joint Sitting provides an opportunity for the President to reflect on progress made, highlight key achievements, flag challenges, and outline Government’s policy direction and programme of action for the year ahead.

During SONA 2026, President Ramaphosa will outline interventions for the coming financial year, deliberating on South Africa’s domestic priorities, as well as the country’s continental and international relations.

The State of the Nation Address remains an important national milestone, reinforcing the strength and resilience of South Africa’s constitutional democratic system.

President Ramaphosa will deliver the 2026 State of the Nation Address as follows:

Date: Thursday, 12 February 2026
Time: 19h00
Venue: Cape Town City Hall, Western Cape

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Operation Shanela II continues to lead to arrests

Source: Government of South Africa

Operation Shanela II continues to lead to arrests

Operation Shanela II has netted more suspects in the Free State. 

This, for various offences, including being in possession of unlicensed firearms and drugs.  

During the past weekly planned operations, Visible Policing Unit members in Ficksburg arrested two suspects during a stop-and-search activity, the police said in a statement. 

The team pulled over a light green Toyota Corolla in Meqheleng Zone 2, and upon searching the motor vehicle, found four blue plastic wrapped parcels containing dagga weighing at 2.17kg. 

“The provincial Anti-Gang Unit operationalised intelligence and apprehended a 32-year-old male from Johannesburg transporting Nyaope with an estimated street value of R200 000 to Ficksburg.

“A 37-year-old foreign national was arrested by the provincial Anti-Gang Unit for being in possession of large quantities of Cat and Chrystal Meth with an estimated street value of R110 000 and 11 presumably stolen cellphones were confiscated,” the police said. 

Welkom Public Order Policing Unit operators apprehended a 42-year-old female for dealing in Mandrax and Tik in Monyakeng, Wesselsbron.

Two suspects were arrested for being in possession and dealing in drugs in Phuthaditjhaba. 

The Welkom Anti-Gang Unit apprehended a 33-year-old male in possession of large quantity of ‘rock’, also referred to as cocaine, and confiscated cash believed to be proceeds of drugs sale. A second suspect, 34, was arrested at a local shopping complex, and Chrystal Meth as well as Nyaope, were seized by the police.

Another suspect, a 22-year-old drug peddler was found selling various kinds of drugs in the Bloemfontein Central Business District from a supermarket till. The street value of the drugs seized is estimated at R150 000 and the suspect was immediately placed under arrest by the provincial Anti-Gang Unit.

The unit operationalised intelligence in Phiritona, Heilbron. During the search, the team seized .38 Special Taurus Revolver, eight presumably stolen cellular telephones and Chrystal Meth with an estimated street value of R100 000. Two suspects aged 18 and 35 were immediately placed under arrest.

A 24-year-old male was arrested by the Welkom Anti-Gang Unit in Hlatseng Village, Qwaqwa. The team conducted a search at the suspect’s residence and recovered a 9mm calibre black pistol with an empty magazine.

In another incident, five foreign nationals were arrested in connection with the double murder in Namibia Square, Mangaung by the Provincial Track and Trace team and Parkweg Tactical Response Team in collaboration with various community safety structures. A 9mm calibre black pistol and a magazine loaded with six rounds were seized.

During the execution of planned operational concepts, five handguns were seized. A total weight of 266.54g of Tik, 81g of Nyaope, 10.41g of Cocaine, 12.37kg of dagga, 20.33g of Mandrax powder and 69 Mandrax tablets were confiscated. 

The police said multidisciplinary integrated Operation Shanela II policing operations will continue. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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Joburg working to resolve water issues

Source: Government of South Africa

Joburg working to resolve water issues

City of Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero has moved to assure residents that the municipality is hard at work to resolve water supply challenges.

The Mayor briefed the media on Tuesday at the New Brixton Reservoir in the city.

Several areas have faced water supply challenges over the past few weeks.

“The city…is taking decisive action to stabilise the water supply network and reduce consumption through a comprehensive, multifaceted Water Demand Management programme.

“This approach involves coordinated efforts between the city, Johannesburg Water, Rand Water, and key stakeholders to address both immediate and long-term water security challenges.

“The programme includes detailed assessments of water usage patterns, targeted interventions in high-risk areas, and the deployment of cutting-edge technologies to monitor and optimise the entire supply system,” Morero said in a statement.

He noted that Johannesburg is one of Rand Water’s largest consumers of bulk water with reductions in usage needed.

The Mayor added that while progress has been made in this regard, the city must still “reach a critical target of 1 550 Ml/d to comply with licence apportionment requirements”.

“To achieve this, our administration is implementing a suite of urgent, practical interventions, including real-time monitoring of consumption at the district and household levels, partnerships with businesses to drive water-saving initiatives, and enhanced public awareness campaigns.

“These efforts are aimed at protecting supply, meeting regulatory obligations, and building long-term resilience within the municipal water system.

“Immediate measures already underway include night-time throttling to reduce losses, strategic bulk meter restrictions in high-consumption zones, intensified pressure management, and advanced leak detection technologies deployed across the network,” he said.

Additionally, rapid response repairs are being carried out on leaks and problem areas are being identified quicker with the help of local ward committees.

“These actions are designed to curb excessive demand, minimise water wastage, and ensure fair and sustainable access to water for all residents,” Morero assured.

The Mayor noted that communities in areas including Melville, Westdene, and Parktown West have faced water supply disruptions due to “constraints within the Commando system and ongoing commissioning work”.

Technical teams deployed to the area are addressing water pressure issues, flushing networks to clear blockages and securing “alternative supply via water tankers and mobile storage units where necessary”.

“The city is also providing regular updates to affected residents and maintaining open communication with local councillors to ensure community needs are met throughout the restoration process.

“At the same time, the city is investing in major infrastructure upgrades in the Brixton, Crosby, and Hursthill supply districts, including the construction of new reservoirs, the installation of modern pump stations, and the refurbishment of ageing infrastructure.

“These projects are expected to significantly improve capacity, operational flexibility, and resilience upon completion,” Morero said.

The Mayor called on residents to reduce usage of water and to use it sparingly.

“The city acknowledges the inconvenience caused by water supply challenges and assures residents that every effort is being made to stabilise the network as quickly as possible.

“To support these efforts, all residents, businesses, and institutions are urged to reduce water consumption, report leaks promptly and strictly adhere to water-saving measures during this period. The city will continue to provide timely updates as projects progress.

“Johannesburg remains committed to protecting essential services, strengthening infrastructure, and ensuring a reliable and sustainable water future for all,” Morero concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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Sudan’s latest peace plan: what’s in it and does it stand a chance?

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Samir Ramzy, Researcher, Helwan University

US president Donald Trump’s advisor on Arab and African Affairs, Massad Boulos, announced in February 2026 that Washington and three Middle East states – Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates (collectively known as the Quad) – were close to finalising a detailed initiative aimed at ending Sudan’s war. The plan resembled the roadmap shared by the Quad in September 2025.

According to Boulos, the proposal had received preliminary approval from the two warring parties in the civil war: Sudan’s Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Civil war erupted in the country in mid-April 2023 over disputes surrounding military reform and the future configuration of Sudan’s political system. Since then, more than 14 million Sudanese have been displaced inside and outside the country. Tens of thousands have been killed and more than half of the population – around 21 million people – are facing acute hunger.

Meanwhile, the battlefield has produced a de facto territorial split. The army and its allies remain entrenched in eastern, northern and central Sudan, including the capital, Khartoum. The RSF controls much of western Sudan, including all Darfur states.

Active fighting is now largely concentrated in Kordofan, which lies between the two zones of control. The region represents 20% of Sudan’s territory, extends over roughly 390,000 square kilometres and has a population of around 8 million.

Based on my research on Sudan’s political and conflict dynamics, I argue that the prospects for the Quad-led initiative remain limited in the short term, even if it could, over time, help pave the way for a ceasefire.

Continued military escalation, deep mistrust between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary forces, and the army’s refusal to legitimise the RSF undermine prospects for de-escalation.

Additionally, regional and international actors have yet to generate sufficient pressure for peace. Competing regional interests and continued external support for the warring parties reduce incentives for compromise. As a result, the most realistic outcome for now is a temporary humanitarian pause rather than a lasting political settlement.

The obstacles

The latest Quad framework has five main parts:

  • an immediate ceasefire

  • unhindered humanitarian access

  • civilian protection

  • the launch of a political process leading to civilian governance

  • a reconstruction pathway supported by a pledged US$1.5 billion.

Media leaks suggest the proposal includes coordinated withdrawals by Sudanese warring parties from major cities.

Under the proposal, the RSF would pull back from key positions in South Kordofan and around El-Obeid, the closest RSF-controlled area to Khartoum. Army units in the capital would, meanwhile, be replaced by local police as part of efforts to prepare urban centres for civilian governance.

A UN-led mechanism would monitor the ceasefire and secure humanitarian corridors.

Despite the seriousness of this proposal, developments on the ground indicate that neither side is ready to de-escalate. The biggest obstacles continue to be:

1. The army’s refusal to legitimise the RSF

Within hours of the initiative’s announcement, army commander Abdel Fattah al-Burhan publicly reiterated that he would not accept any political or military role for the RSF.

This stance aligns with reports that senior army figures objected to key provisions of the Quad proposal, particularly those allowing the RSF to retain local governance structures in areas under its control to facilitate aid delivery.

For the army, recognising such arrangements would amount to legitimising the RSF as a political actor.

2. The army’s broader insistence that it alone should oversee any reform of Sudan’s military institutions

This is the very issue that triggered the war in 2023.

3. Escalation on the battlefield

Neither side appears to be preparing for withdrawals. On the contrary, recent weeks have seen escalating clashes and the opening of new fronts.

For instance, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement–North, an RSF ally, has launched new attacks against army forces in Blue Nile state.

At the same time, the army has succeeded in lifting sieges on key towns in South Kordofan that had been encircled by the RSF for nearly two years. This increasingly complex military map makes agreement on withdrawal zones exceptionally difficult.

4. Deep mistrust between the warring parties

This mistrust derailed previous efforts. In May 2023, the US-Saudi mediated Jeddah agreement collapsed after both sides reneged on commitments to withdraw from civilian areas.

5. External actors are not yet incentivising peace

Regional and international dynamics remain a major obstacle. This includes some of the Quad’s members, who publicly endorse a ceasefire even as battlefield realities suggest otherwise. These actors have repeatedly denied accusations of providing military support to one side or the other.

As long as both Sudanese warring parties retain access to regional backing, there is little incentive to halt the fighting. Continued war allows them to compete over territory and extract resources while sidelining any meaningful civilian political alternative.

Chances of breakthrough

A breakthrough is possible. But it won’t happen quickly. A meaningful shift would require stronger international pressure.

Washington appears to be moving gradually in this direction as part of a broader effort to consolidate western influence in Sudan while curbing rival regional and global actors. This is happening most notably amid concerns over Russia’s reported interest in establishing a naval facility in Port Sudan.

A pillar of this approach is drying up the drivers of war, especially arms flows. In December 2025, the US Congress passed legislation expanding American intelligence engagement in Sudan to monitor and expose external actors fuelling the conflict. The language of the bill suggests that all suppliers are potential targets.

In this context, media leaks about external involvement in Sudan can be seen as a form of political pressure on arms suppliers. This places current providers in a difficult position: either align with Washington’s framework or risk confrontation with it.

Regional actors may gradually follow suit if Washington demonstrates sustained resolve. Egypt, in particular, could pivot towards a ceasefire as the conflict edges closer to Blue Nile state near Ethiopia’s Grand Renaissance Dam, a core national security concern for Cairo.

These dynamics could eventually restrict external military support to both Sudanese parties, narrowing their options and increasing the geopolitical cost of continued war. In this context, maintaining current suppliers of Russian, Chinese and Iranian weapons could provoke countermeasures by Washington and its allies, a costly gamble for both sides.

Over time, this may push the army and the RSF towards negotiations, at least to secure a humanitarian ceasefire.

– Sudan’s latest peace plan: what’s in it and does it stand a chance?
– https://theconversation.com/sudans-latest-peace-plan-whats-in-it-and-does-it-stand-a-chance-275456

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Rania El Rafie d’APO Group nommée Présidente du Comité de Sélection des Public Sector & Thought Leadership Awards pour les Middle East & North Africa Stevie® Awards

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), le leader panafricain multiprimé du conseil en communication et de la distribution de communiqués de presse, annonce la nomination de Rania El Rafie, Vice-présidente, relations publiques et communications stratégiques, en tant que Présidente du Comité de Sélection des Public Sector & Thought Leadership Awards pour les Middle East & North Africa Stevie® Awards.

Les Middle East & North Africa Stevie® Awards (https://apo-opa.co/4rNgXy4) figurent parmi les distinctions les plus respectées au monde, reconnaissant l’innovation, le leadership et l’impact dans tous les secteurs de la région MENA.

En tant que Présidente, Rania a personnellement choisi un comité composé de hauts dirigeants possédant une expertise approfondie des communications d’entreprise, des relations gouvernementales, de la stratégie commerciale et des opérations multinationales. Ensemble, le panel apporte une combinaison de connaissances régionales et de perspective mondiale, façonnée par une expérience pratique de la navigation dans des environnements complexes et des marchés culturellement nuancés. Le comité de sélection est composé de :

  • Mai Youssef, Directrice de la Communication d’Entreprise et des Services Marketing, Canon Middle East & Central and North Africa
  • Sean Muir, Directeur des Relations Publiques pour le GITEX Portfolio, Dubai World Trade Centre
  • Laila Bastati, Responsable Commerciale, APO Group
  • Mohamed Elwagih, Responsable des Communications d’Entreprise, Mantrac Group

El Rafie déclare au sujet de sa nomination : « Présider le comité de sélection des Stevie® Awards est un honneur professionnel, pour moi et pour APO Group. Des programmes de communication efficaces doivent guider la confiance, la responsabilité et l’impact mesurable. En composant ce comité, il était important de réunir des dirigeants qui comprennent la complexité d’opérer sur divers marchés et groupes d’intervenants, tout en respectant les normes internationales les plus élevées. Je me réjouis à la perspective de travailler avec tous les membres du comité pour sélectionner les meilleures candidatures de la région ».

Avec plus de 22 ans d’expérience sur de multiples marchés et secteurs, El Rafie, basée au Caire, a dirigé des programmes de communication à fort impact et primés pour des clients tels qu’Emirates, Canon, Nestlé, TikTok, Marriott, Afreximbank, GITEX, MSD et Western Union. En 2024, elle est devenue la première Vice-présidente d’APO Group en nomination interne. En 2025, elle a été nommée femme la plus innovante de l’année aux Stevie® Awards et reconnue parmi les 50 femmes les plus remarquables d’Afrique dans le secteur des communications.

La nomination d’El Rafie témoigne de son statut de leader de la communication dans toute la région et de l’expérience approfondie d’APO Group en matière de conseil à des clients de premier plan dans plusieurs pays et secteurs.

Distribué par APO Group pour APO Group.

Contact avec les médias :
marie@apo-opa.com 

À propos d’APO Group :
Créé en 2007 par Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, APO Group est le cabinet de conseil en communication pensé pour la performance et alliant conseil stratégique, exécution de terrain et visibilité garantie sur tous les marchés africains.

Reconnu par de nombreuses distinctions internationales, notamment les prix SABRE, Davos Communications et World Business Outlook, APO Group s’associe à des organisations mondiales et africaines pour fournir des communications performantes, grâce à la stratégie, à l’exécution et à une visibilité mesurable.

Les fonctions consultatives de notre fondateur auprès d’institutions internationales élargissent l’accès d’APO Group aux décideurs et renforcent notre rôle de cabinet de conseil en communication le plus connecté du continent. Parmi nos clients figurent Canon, Emirates, Nestlé, NFL, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Afreximbank, le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement, GITEX Global, la Royal African Society et le Programme des Nations Unies pour le développement (PNUD).

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APO Group’s Rania El Rafie Appointed Chair of Public Sector & Thought Leadership Awards Judging Committee for the Middle East & North Africa Stevie® Awards

Source: APO – Report:

APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading multi-award-winning, pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, has announced the appointment of Rania El Rafie, Vice President of  Public Relations & Strategic Communications, as Chair of the Public Sector & Thought Leadership Awards Judging Committee for the Middle East & North Africa Stevie® Awards.

The Middle East & North Africa Stevie® Awards (https://apo-opa.co/4rNgXy4) are among the world’s most respected business awards, recognising innovation, leadership, and impact across sectors within the MENA region.  

As Chair, Rania personally selected a judging committee comprising senior leaders with deep expertise across corporate communications, government relations, commercial strategy, and multinational operations. Together, the panel brings a combination of regional insight and global perspective, shaped by hands-on experience navigating complex environments and culturally nuanced markets. The judging committee comprises:

  • Mai Youssef, Corporate Communications & Marketing Services Director at Canon Middle East & Central and North Africa
  • Sean Muir, Director of Public Relations for the GITEX Portfolio at Dubai World Trade Centre
  • Laila Bastati, Chief Commercial Officer at APO Group
  • Mohamed Elwagih, Group Corporate Communications Manager at Mantrac Group

Commenting on her appointment, El Rafie said: “Chairing a Stevie® Awards judging committee is a professional honour – for myself and for APO Group. Effective communication programmes must navigate trust, accountability, and measurable impact. In assembling this committee, it was important to bring together leaders who understand the complexity of operating across diverse markets and stakeholder groups, while upholding the highest international standards for submissions. I look forward to working with them to identify the region’s success stories.”

With more than 22 years’ experience across multiple markets and sectors, Cairo-based El Rafie has led high-impact, award-winning communications programmes for clients such as Emirates, Canon, Nestlé, TikTok, Marriott, Afreximbank, GITEX, MSD, and Western Union. In 2024, she became APO Group’s first internally appointed Vice President. In 2025, she was named Most Innovative Woman of the Year at the Stevie® Awards and recognised among Africa’s Top 50 Outstanding Women in Communications.

El Rafie’s appointment speaks to her standing as one of the region’s most respected communications leaders, and to APO Group’s depth of experience advising high-profile clients across multiple countries and sectors.

– on behalf of APO Group.

Media Contact:
marie@apo-opa.com 

About APO Group:
Founded in 2007 by Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, APO Group is the communications consultancy built for performance – combining strategic advisory, on-the-ground execution, and guaranteed visibility across every African market.

Recognised with multiple international awards, including SABRE, Davos Communications, and World Business Outlook distinctions, APO Group partners with global and African organisations to deliver communications that perform – through strategy, execution, and measurable visibility.

Our founder’s advisory roles with international institutions strengthen APO Group’s access to decision-makers and reinforce our role as the continent’s most connected communications consultancy. Clients include Canon, Emirates, Nestlé, NFL, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Afreximbank, the African Development Bank Group, GITEX Global, Royal African Society, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

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Rania El Rafie, do APO Group, foi nomeada Presidente do Comité de Juízes dos Prémios do Setor Público e dde Thought Leadership Stevie® Awards para o Médio Oriente e o Norte de África

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), a principal e multi-premiada consultora pan-africana de comunicação e serviço de distribuição de comunicados de imprensa, anunciou a nomeação de Rania El Rafie, Vice-Presidente de Relações Públicas e Comunicação Estratégic, como Presidente do Júri dos Prémios de Sector Público e Thought Leadership dos Stevie® Awards para o Médio Oriente e Norte de África.

Os Stevie® Awards do Médio Oriente e Norte de África (https://apo-opa.co/4rNgXy4) estão entre os prémios empresariais mais respeitados do mundo, reconhecendo a inovação, a liderança e o impacto em todos os setores na região MENA. 

Na qualidade de Presidente, Rania selecionou pessoalmente um comité de jurados composto por líderes seniores com uma profunda experiência em comunicação empresarial, relações governamentais, estratégia comercial e operações multinacionais. No seu todo, o painel oferece uma combinação de visões regionais e perspetivas globais, moldadas por experiência prática a navegar ambientes complexos e mercados com nuances culturais. O comité de avaliação é composto por:

  • Mai Youssef, Diretora de Serviços de Marketing e Comunicações Empresariais da Canon Médio Oriente e África Central e do Norte
  • Sean Muir, Diretor de Relações Públicas do Portefólio GITEX no Dubai World Trade Centre
  • Laila Bastati, Chief Commercial Officer do APO Group
  • Mohamed Elwagih, Diretor de Comunicações Empresariais do Mantrac Group

Ao comentar a sua nomeação, El Rafie afirmou: “Presidir a uma comissão de avaliação dos Stevie® Awards é uma honra profissional – para mim e para o APO Group. Programas de comunicação eficazes têm de gerir confiança, responsabilidade e impacto mensurável. Ao constituir este comité, era importante reunir líderes que compreendem a complexidade de operar em mercados e junto de públicos diversos, mantendo simultaneamente os mais elevados padrões internacionais na avaliação das candidaturas. Estou entusiasmada por trabalhar com eles para identificar as histórias de sucesso da região.”

Com mais de 22 anos de experiência em vários mercados e setores, El Rafie, baseadano Cairo, liderou programas de comunicação premiados e de grande impacto para clientes como a Emirates, Canon, Nestlé, TikTok, Marriott, Afreximbank, GITEX, MSD e Western Union. Em 2024, tornou-se a primeira vice-presidente do APO Group nomeada internamente. Em 2025, foi nomeada a Mulher Mais Inovadora do Ano nos Prémios Stevie® e reconhecida entre as 50 Mulheres Mais Notáveis de África na área da Comunicação.

A nomeação de El Rafie demonstra a sua posição como uma das líderes de comunicação mais respeitadas da região e a profunda experiência do APO Group no aconselhamento de clientes de alto nível em vários países e setores.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para APO Group.

Contacto para a comunicação social:
marie@apo-opa.com 

Sobre o APO Group:
Fundado em 2007 por Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, o APO Group é uma consultora de comunicação orientada para a performance, que combina aconselhamento estratégico, execução no terreno e visibilidade garantida em todos os mercados africanos.

Reconhecido com múltiplos prémios internacionais, incluindo distinções SABRE, Davos Communications e World Business Outlook, o APO Group trabalha com organizações globais e africanas para desenvolver e implementar planos de comunicação que geram resultados, assentes em estratégia, execução e visibilidade com impacto.

As funções de concelheiro do nosso fundador em instituições internacionais reforçam o acesso do APO Group a decisores de alto nível e consolidam o nosso posicionamento como a consultora de comunicação melhor conectada do continente. Entre os nossos clientes contam-se a Canon, a Emirates, a Nestlé, a NFL, a Liquid Intelligent Technologies, o Afreximbank, o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento, a GITEX Global, a Royal African Society e o Programa das Nações Unidas para o Desenvolvimento (PNUD).

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Kimberley welcomes Alaya on peace journey

Source: Government of South Africa

Kimberley welcomes Alaya on peace journey

A man who has embarked on a remarkable journey to walk the longest walkable route on Earth to promote peace across the world, arrived in Kimberley on Tuesday.

Alaya, originally from the Kingdom of Jordan, was received by members from the South African Police Service (SAPS) Office of the Provincial Commissioner, the Frances Baard District Commissioner’s Office and Kimberley SAPS on a wet and cool morning.

The Frances Baard District Commissioner, Major General Charlotte Makgari, commended Alaya for undertaking such an extraordinary journey in support of a noble cause that affects the global community. 

She conveyed her heartfelt admiration for his bravery, dedication and perseverance, and wished him well for the remainder of his journey.

Alaya addressed the men and women in blue, sharing the purpose of his project and inspiring those in attendance through his humility and passion for promoting peace.

He emphasised the importance of education and investing in the youth as a foundation for a peaceful future.

Alaya commenced his journey on 1 January 2026 from Cape Agulhas and reached Kimberley after completing approximately 1 000 kilometres on foot.

He will continue his 23 000km journey through 18 countries over a period of 730 days, with Magadan in Russia as his final destination.

The Management of the Kimberley Big Hole hosted Alaya and the SAPS delegation on a tour of the Open Mine, where the history of the town and the diamond industry was shared.

During his stay, Alaya will visit several schools in the greater Kimberley area to promote the peace initiative and motivate learners on the importance of education.

Upon departing the Northern Cape, he will proceed through to the North West Province.

Members of the public who encounter Alaya along his route are encouraged to join and accompany him in support of this peace initiative.

The Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, wished Alaya well on his journey and reaffirmed the SAPS’s support for initiatives that promote peace, unity and social cohesion.

She further acknowledged the continued participation and generosity displayed by law enforcement officials supporting this extraordinary and worthy cause. 

South Africa was chosen as the starting point because the route naturally begins at the continent’s southernmost tip, Cape Agulhas.

Alaya is the founder of Hike With Me, which initiated the march. Hike With Me is a non-profit NGO whose work includes everything from awareness campaigns and education programmes to record-breaking hikes, all guided by one mission: “Walk with purpose. Connect with heart. Leave a footprint that matters”. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin

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