Category: Africa

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From Stalled Talks to Breakthroughs: Yoyo-Yolanda Signals New Chapter for the Gulf of Guinea

Source: APO – Report:

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Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea have signed a unitization agreement to jointly develop the cross-border Yoyo-Yolanda gas fields, marking a decisive step toward accelerating long-delayed gas monetization in the Gulf of Guinea. Forming part of the broader Gas Mega Hub (GMH) – an initiative led by Equatorial Guinea to monetize stranded gas reserves – the agreement strengthens cross-border cooperation at a time when the GMH is showing signs of resurgence.  

As the voice of the African energy sector, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) strongly supports the milestone, recognizing it as a clear signal that both countries are moving swiftly from negotiation to execution. As the project advances, the Chamber has called for sustained urgency, streamlined approvals and coordinated infrastructure development to maintain investor confidence and unlock the full economic potential of the Yoyo-Yolanda project.

Clear Signal to Investors: Execution, Urgency and Infrastructure First

Containing 2.5 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of natural gas reserves, the Yoyo-Yolanda project is an integral part of the GMH, monetizing gas resources across two strategic fields. Operators Noble Energy Cameroon and Noble Energy Equatorial Guinea – both Chevron companies – have reaffirmed their full commitment to the project. Jim Swartz, Chairman and Managing Director of Chevron Nigeria and the Mid-Africa Region, highlighted that the project is central to Chevron’s strategy of supporting long-term LNG supply and leveraging existing infrastructure at Alen and Punta Europa.

For the AEC, the agreement sends a strong signal to global investors that Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea are aligned, bankable and serious about accelerating gas development. The Chamber has called on both governments to fast-track final investment decisions, engineering and infrastructure rollout, while implementing targeted policies and incentives to maintain momentum.

The AEC has also urged Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea to draw on proven best practices from successful cross-border gas developments, including the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim project between Senegal and Mauritania, as well as earlier Gas Mega Hub agreements involving Nigeria and Cameroon, to reduce execution risk and shorten time-to-market.

“The Chamber celebrates the agreement to unify Yoyo-Yolanda. There is a tight window to monetize Africa’s gas resources before global market dynamics shift – delaying is not an option. Governments must eliminate red tape, accelerate execution, and leverage existing infrastructure to maintain investor confidence,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

Gas Mega Hub Strategy Gains Momentum

For Equatorial Guinea, Yoyo-Yolanda is a cornerstone of the country’s GMH strategy, aimed at positioning the nation as a regional gas processing and monetization hub. The project reinforces Equatorial Guinea’s drive to commercialize its 1.5 tcf of domestic gas reserves to support energy security, industrialization and export growth.

Momentum behind the GMH has continued into 2026. Most recently, national oil company GEPetrol increased its participating interest in the Aseng gas project from 5% to 32.55%, following the signing of a Heads of Agreement with Chevron to finance the stake increase. The transaction strengthens national participation in upstream gas assets while accelerating feedstock availability for the Punta Europa LNG complex, reinforcing the GMH’s infrastructure-led approach to fast-tracking gas monetization.

This followed a letter of intent signed in 2023 by Noble Energy to supply gas from the onshore Aseng field. More recently, production sharing contracts signed with Panoro Energy and Africa Oil Corporation further underscore Equatorial Guinea’s commitment to scaling gas production and ensuring long-term throughput for the GMH.

For Cameroon, the Yoyo-Yolanda project supports the country’s 2035 universal energy access goals, including expanding access to LPG, biogas and electricity, while boosting export revenues. Beyond energy revenues, Yoyo-Yolanda is expected to catalyze broader socio-economic benefits. Accelerated development will expand local content participation, strengthen workforce development and act as a door opener for new exploration campaigns across the Gulf of Guinea, reinforcing the region’s position as an emerging gas investment frontier.

Turning Stalled Projects into Executable Developments

With Yoyo-Yolanda now unified, the focus shifts to execution. There is a narrow window to monetize gas resources before global market dynamics evolve, making speed and coordination essential. Fast-tracked approvals, streamlined cross-border processes and decisive project management will be critical to maintaining momentum and investor confidence.

Leveraging existing regional infrastructure will be equally important. By utilizing established processing and export facilities such as Punta Europa, Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon can lower operating costs, shorten development timelines and accelerate gas to market. For investors, rapid progress on Yoyo-Yolanda will send a clear signal that both countries are aligned, commercially focused and open for business.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Concern over Senteeko Dam safety risks

Source: Government of South Africa

Concern over Senteeko Dam safety risks

The Department of Water and Sanitation has issued a dam safety directive to address serious and ongoing safety risks at My Own Dam, publicly known as Senteeko Dam, in Mpumalanga.

The directive, issued in terms of Section 118 of the National Water Act, was served on the dam owner, Shamile Communal Property Association (CPA), on Tuesday, 3 February 2025.

It compels the owner to take immediate, time-bound action to stabilise the dam and prevent further deterioration in order to protect lives, livelihoods and property downstream.

This intervention follows a series of technical assessments which confirmed that the dam is still in a compromised and partially failed condition, and that without urgent remedial action, further deterioration is likely to continue.

As outlined in the directive, these conditions pose an unacceptable level of risk that cannot be adequately managed through monitoring alone.

The department said it is acting decisively to ensure that the dam owner fulfils their legal obligation to maintain the dam in a safe condition.

The department warned that continued deterioration of the dam presents a direct threat to downstream farming communities, including the risk of loss of life and damage to homes, agricultural land and infrastructure.

“These risks are heightened during periods of rainfall and cannot be ignored or deferred. The department is clear that the risk associated with the Senteeko Dam has not yet been averted, and regulatory enforcement will remain in place until that risk is meaningfully reduced,” it said in a statement on Wednesday.

Engineers have consciously avoided lowering water levels too rapidly, as a sudden drawdown could trigger further structural failure of the already compromised dam wall.

To address the prevailing risk, the dam owner’s Appointed Professional Engineer (APP) has been instructed to urgently assess the dam’s condition and determine the remedial measures required to prevent further deterioration and reduce the risk of failure.

“These determinations must be completed within seven days from the date of the directive and submitted to the department’s Dam Safety Office for review and approval. Once the proposed measures are approved, the department will require the dam owner to immediately commence urgent repair works, including the appointment of a competent and suitably qualified contractor.

“All repair works must be carried out [with] the supervision of the APP and continue until the department is satisfied that the dam no longer poses an unacceptable risk to downstream communities.”

The department said all required engineering designs and technical submissions must be received on or before 13 February 2026, in strict accordance with the timelines set out in the directive.

“Failure to comply with these instructions will result in further enforcement action, as provided for by the law.”

The department said it would prioritise all necessary regulatory approvals to ensure corrective work proceeds without delay, adding that protecting human life, property and livelihoods downstream of the Senteeko Dam remains its foremost concern.

The department will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide updates as developments occur. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK

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NAC opens applications to fund arts projects

Source: Government of South Africa

NAC opens applications to fund arts projects

The National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC) has encouraged individual arts practitioners, registered arts organisations and community art centres to apply for funding for the 2026-2027 financial year.

“This call appeals to arts practitioners to present projects that can continue to educate, entertain, and enlighten audiences. Proposed projects must demonstrate impact and value for the communities in which they operate,” the NAC said ahead of next month’s deadline.

The maximum amount applied for should not be more than R350 000. 

The allocation will be in line with the redress and transformation imperatives of the NAC.

Operating under the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the NAC plays a crucial role in funding and facilitating artistic and cultural initiatives that contribute to the country’s creative economy and heritage preservation.

The NAC said only one application will be supported whether submitted by an individual or an organisation/company, be it a natural person or a juristic person.

The invitation is open to active art practitioners in the disciplines of craft, dance, literature, music, theatre and musical theatre, visual arts and multidiscipline to submit their applications for project funding. 

Applications presenting content in South African indigenous art forms as well as capacity building initiatives in intellectual property are encouraged to apply.

The proposed projects must have the capability to address at least two of the six critical focus areas.

The focus areas are as follows:
•    Social cohesion and nation building: This is the extent to which the project brings communities together as well as allows for the inclusion of previously excluded parts of the society while at the same time creating national unity.

  • Marginalised and indigenous arts: Projects to be considered must focus on uplifting rural communities as they have a wealth of indigenous and rare artistic expressions that remain in the shadow of mainstream arts. Projects that seek to unearth and profile these hidden art forms by exposing the arts and the practitioners in marginalised areas to new audiences and markets will be highly considered.
    •    Addressing social ills: Projects that provide a platform for artistic expression to the voiceless as well as help with alleviating social ills such as xenophobia, gender-based violence and other violent crimes, drug abuse and gangsterism will be highly considered.
    •    Supporting vulnerable groups: Projects that provide employment opportunities for women, people living with disabilities and in rural areas will be highly considered.
    •    New works and digital arts: Projects that are innovative and introduce new arts through digital artistic presentations, as well as other platforms, will be highly considered.
    •    Capacity building and arts entrepreneurship: The ability of the project to contribute to skills development and setting up of new businesses acumen.

    Applications must be submitted on or before Friday, 13 March 2026 at 11:59pm.

    Applicants need to register and complete the online application form using the following link: https://nac.praxisgms.co.za/. 

    Manual applications can be requested from info@nac.org.za. This service is reserved only for those who lack access to internet services.

    Late and incomplete applications will not be considered, and no exceptions will be made. 
    Funding guidelines can be downloaded from www.nac.org.za .

    For more information, contact info@nac.org.za or call 011 010 8886. –SAnews.gov.za
     

nosihle

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SANDF outlines preparations for 2026 Armed Forces Day 

Source: Government of South Africa

SANDF outlines preparations for 2026 Armed Forces Day 

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has outlined plans and activities leading up to the 2026 Armed Forces Day, which will be commemorated on 21 February 2026.

The Armed Forces Day (AFD) will take place in Thohoyandou, Venda, in the province of Limpopo.

Addressing members of the media during a briefing held at the Thulamela Local Municipality Library on Wednesday, the SANDF said AFD remains an important date on the calendar of the Defence Force, having been proclaimed as an annual commemoration on 21 February. 

Armed Forces Day serves a dual purpose of honouring men and women currently serving in uniform, while also remembering about 600 soldiers who lost their lives during the sinking of the SS Mendi in 1917. 

“It is a deeply sombre, yet prideful occasion, balancing the modern excellence of the SANDF and the profound historical tragedy of the SS MENDI. This day is a celebration of courage of those who wear the uniform and we bow our heads in memory of those who never returned from the distant horizon,” the SANDF said in a statement. 

Since its inception in 2013, Armed Forces Day has been commemorated in all nine provinces to expose communities to the SANDF and to enhance public understanding and appreciation of its work. 

The hosting of the 2026 commemoration in the Vhembe District and Thulamela Local Municipality forms part of an ongoing effort to reach rural and outlying communities.

“This event charges the SANDF to showcase itself, heighten [a] sense of patriotism and service to all South Africans,” the briefing noted.

A series of activities will take place in the build-up to Armed Forces Day, culminating in the main event on Saturday, 21 February. The activities include a Career Expo at the Fan Park, an Interfaith Church Service, sport clinics, and a wreath-laying ceremony by the President in honour of fallen members.

Communities will also have an opportunity to witness some of the Defence Force’s military hardware, noting that Armed Forces Day is not only about showcasing equipment and personnel, but also serves as a real-time simulation of the SANDF’s ability to mobilise rapidly across the country.

“As we always say we train, as we fight to be prepared for any eventuality should such arise,” the SANDF said.

The briefing further highlighted the SANDF’s people-centred approach to security, aligned with South Africa’s adoption of human security, which focuses on protecting individuals from non-military threats and emphasises freedom from fear, want and indignity.

Supporting communities affected by floods 

The SANDF also confirmed that it is providing support to communities affected by recent heavy rains and floods in Limpopo and Mpumalanga. Engineers and other specialists have been deployed to assist with disaster management and infrastructure restoration.

“We have brought with us our engineers and other expertise to support with the disaster management efforts in the aftermath of the heavy rains. We will be contributing to infrastructure repairs, like roads and bridges in particular, the purification of water and putting up temporary structures with lighting for those affected,” the SANDF said.

The South African Military Health Service (SAMHS) has also been providing health services in deep rural areas, including Sekhukhune, Waterberg and Vhembe districts.

Health support services offered include medical, animal health, mental health, ancillary health, social and welfare services, as well as environmental health, with specialised services such as ophthalmology, oral health and orthopaedics also provided.

Call for participation

The SANDF called on communities around Thohoyandou and neighbouring towns and villages to participate in the Armed Forces Day activities.

“It is an honour for us to be here and share with you the activities of the SANDF whilst we are here and we can call on all communities around Thohoyandou and neighbouring towns and villages to join the SA National Defence Force in honour of our fallen soldiers and to build a compact with the people’s National Defence Force,” the SANDF said. 

The main Armed Forces Day Parade will take place on 21 February 2026 at Thavhani Mall along the R524 in Thohoyandou. 

The event will be preceded by a wreath-laying ceremony at the memorial site, where President Cyril Ramaphosa, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, will honour those who perished in the SS Mendi tragedy, as well as all SANDF members who have fallen in the line of duty. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM

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Afrique du Sud et Afreximbank : Accord Historique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Groupe Africa24 (https://Africa24TV.com/) vous propose de revivre en Replay sur Africa24 et Africa24 English, l’intégralité de la cérémonie historique officielle d’adhésion de la République d’Afrique du Sud à l’Accord d’Établissement d’Afreximbank (la Banque africaine d’Import-Export), principale institution financière multilatérale du continent.

La cérémonie complète en Replay disponible ici (https://apo-opa.co/4rRU5h1)

Par cette signature historique, la plus grande économie africaine devient le 54ᵉ État membre de la Banque, consacrant un partenariat stratégique majeur et ouvrant une nouvelle ère de coopération financière et commerciale panafricaine. Cette adhésion consacre une volonté commune : renforcer la souveraineté économique africaine et accélérer l’intégration continentale.

Le Dr George Elombi, Président d’Afreximbank a qualifié cette adhésion d’« étape décisive vers l’unification autour des intérêts économiques du continent ».

Le Président sud-africain, S.E. Cyril Ramaphosa a pour sa part souligné : «L’adhésion de l’Afrique du Sud à Afreximbank confirme notre engagement en faveur du développement industriel africain et de l’approfondissement du commerce, de l’investissement et du développement sur l’ensemble du continent. »

Afreximbank propose un programme de 8 milliards USD

Pour rendre ce partenariat immédiatement opérationnel, Afreximbank déploiera en Afrique du Sud un Programme Pays de 8 milliards USD, destiné à :

  • Stimuler le développement industriel
  • Renforcer les chaînes d’approvisionnement régionales
  • Accroître le commerce intra-africain, Intensifier les flux d’investissement continentaux

Aligné sur le Plan National de Développement 2030 de l’Afrique du Sud, ce programme cible des secteurs stratégiques tels que la santé, les services financiers, l’industrie manufacturière, l’énergie et les mines.

Revivez la cérémonie en Replay

Africa24 et Africa24 English vous invitent à revivre l’intégralité de la cérémonie officielle et des allocutions en Replay sur toutes nos plateformes :

  • AFRICA24 TV (français – chaîne 249 Canal+ Afrique)
  • AFRICA24 English (anglais – chaîne 254 Canal+ Afrique)
  • myAfrica24, première plateforme de streaming HD dédiée à l’Afrique
  • https://Africa24TV.com/

À travers cette diffusion spéciale, le Groupe Africa24 confirme son engagement à accompagner les grandes dynamiques d’intégration et de transformation économique du continent.

Avec le Groupe Africa24, Ensemble, transformons l’Afrique.

Distribué par APO Group pour AFRICA24 Group.

Contact : Direction de la Communication – Groupe Africa24
Gaëlle Stella Oyono
Email : onana@africa24tv.com
Tél.WhatsApp : +237 691 30 03 40
africa24tv
https://Africa24TV.com/

A PROPOS DU GROUPE AFRICA24 :
Initié en 2009, le Groupe Africa 24 est le premier éditeur TV & média digital du continent avec 4 chaînes full HD en diffusion dans les plus grands bouquets. Leader chez les décideurs et cadres dirigeants du continent, Africa 24 en Français et Africa 24 English, le Groupe est le pionnier et leader des chaînes d’informations sur l’Afrique.

Africa 24 a renforcé ce leadership à travers le sport avec Africa24 Sport, première chaine en Afrique dédié à l’information sportive et aux compétitions et Africa24 Infinity, première chaîne dédiée aux industries créatives qui valorisent le génie créatif de la jeunesse africaine dans l’art, la culture, la musique, la mode, le design…

Première marque audiovisuelle du continent, le Groupe AFRICA24 dispose de 4 chaînes de télévisions en full HD chacune leader dans son segment :

  • AFRICA24 TV : Leader de l’information Africaine en Français, édité par AMedia
  • AFRICA24 English : Leader de l’Information Africaine exclusivement en Anglais
  • AFRICA24 Infinity : La chaîne des talents créatifs dédiée à la Musique, l’art, la culture.
  • AFRICA24 Sport : Première chaîne d’information sportive et des compétitions

Le Groupe AFRICA24 édite myafrica24 (Google store et App Store), la première plateforme de streaming HD mondiale sur l’Afrique disponible sur tous les écrans (Télévision, tablette, smartphone, ordinateurs) …Plus de 120 millions de foyers ont accès aux chaînes du Groupe Africa24 à travers les plus grands opérateurs : Canal+, Bouygues, Orange, Bell…et plus de 8 millions d’abonnés sur les différentes plateformes digitales et réseaux sociaux.

Media files

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Des négociations au point mort à des avancées décisives : Yoyo-Yolanda marque le début d’un nouveau chapitre pour le golfe de Guinée

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le Cameroun et la Guinée équatoriale ont signé un accord d’unitisation pour exploiter conjointement les gisements gaziers transfrontaliers de Yoyo-Yolanda, marquant ainsi une étape décisive vers l’accélération de la monétisation du gaz dans le golfe de Guinée, longtemps retardée. S’inscrivant dans le cadre plus large du Gas Mega Hub (GMH) – une initiative menée par la Guinée équatoriale pour monétiser les réserves de gaz bloquées – cet accord renforce la coopération transfrontalière à un moment où le GMH montre des signes de reprise.  

En tant que porte-parole du secteur énergétique africain, la Chambre africaine de l’énergie (AEC) soutient fermement cette avancée majeure, qu’elle considère comme un signal clair indiquant que les deux pays passent rapidement de la phase de négociation à celle d’exécution. À mesure que le projet avance, la Chambre a appelé à maintenir l’urgence, à rationaliser les procédures d’approbation et à coordonner le développement des infrastructures afin de préserver la confiance des investisseurs et de libérer tout le potentiel économique du projet Yoyo-Yolanda.

Un message clair aux investisseurs : priorité à l’exécution, à l’urgence et aux infrastructures

Avec ses réserves de gaz naturel estimées à 2,5 billions de pieds cubes (tcf), le projet Yoyo-Yolanda fait partie intégrante du GMH et permet de monétiser les ressources gazières de deux champs stratégiques. Les opérateurs Noble Energy Cameroon et Noble Energy Equatorial Guinea, deux filiales de Chevron, ont réaffirmé leur engagement total envers le projet. Jim Swartz, président-directeur général de Chevron Nigeria et de la région Afrique centrale, a souligné que le projet est au cœur de la stratégie de Chevron visant à soutenir l’approvisionnement à long terme en GNL et à tirer parti des infrastructures existantes à Alen et Punta Europa.

Pour l’AEC, cet accord envoie un signal fort aux investisseurs internationaux, leur indiquant que le Cameroun et la Guinée équatoriale sont alignés, solvables et déterminés à accélérer le développement du gaz. La Chambre a appelé les deux gouvernements à accélérer les décisions finales d’investissement, l’ingénierie et le déploiement des infrastructures, tout en mettant en œuvre des politiques et des incitations ciblées pour maintenir la dynamique.

L’AEC a également exhorté le Cameroun et la Guinée équatoriale à s’inspirer des meilleures pratiques éprouvées issues de développements gaziers transfrontaliers réussis, notamment le projet Greater Tortue Ahmeyim entre le Sénégal et la Mauritanie, ainsi que les accords antérieurs relatifs au méga-hub gazier impliquant le Nigeria et le Cameroun, afin de réduire les risques d’exécution et de raccourcir les délais de mise sur le marché.

« La Chambre se félicite de l’accord visant à unifier Yoyo-Yolanda. Il reste peu de temps pour monétiser les ressources gazières africaines avant que la dynamique du marché mondial ne change – il n’est pas question de retarder les choses. Les gouvernements doivent éliminer les formalités administratives, accélérer l’exécution et tirer parti des infrastructures existantes pour maintenir la confiance des investisseurs », a déclaré NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de l’AEC.

La stratégie du méga-hub gazier prend de l’ampleur

Pour la Guinée équatoriale, Yoyo-Yolanda est la pierre angulaire de la stratégie GMH du pays, qui vise à positionner la nation comme une plaque tournante régionale pour le traitement et la monétisation du gaz. Le projet renforce la volonté de la Guinée équatoriale de commercialiser ses 1,5 tcf de réserves de gaz nationales afin de soutenir la sécurité énergétique, l’industrialisation et la croissance des exportations.

La dynamique derrière le GMH s’est poursuivie jusqu’en 2026. Tout récemment, la compagnie pétrolière nationale GEPetrol a augmenté sa participation dans le projet gazier Aseng de 5 % à 32,55 %, à la suite de la signature d’un accord-cadre avec Chevron pour financer cette augmentation. Cette transaction renforce la participation nationale dans les actifs gaziers en amont tout en accélérant la disponibilité des matières premières pour le complexe GNL de Punta Europa, renforçant ainsi l’approche de la GMH axée sur les infrastructures pour accélérer la monétisation du gaz.

Cette transaction fait suite à une lettre d’intention signée en 2023 par Noble Energy pour fournir du gaz provenant du champ onshore d’Aseng. Plus récemment, les contrats de partage de production signés avec Panoro Energy et Africa Oil Corporation soulignent encore davantage l’engagement de la Guinée équatoriale à augmenter la production de gaz et à garantir un débit à long terme pour le GMH.

Pour le Cameroun, le projet Yoyo-Yolanda soutient les objectifs d’accès universel à l’énergie du pays pour 2035, notamment en élargissant l’accès au GPL, au biogaz et à l’électricité, tout en augmentant les recettes d’exportation. Au-delà des revenus énergétiques, Yoyo-Yolanda devrait générer des retombées socio-économiques plus larges. L’accélération du développement permettra d’accroître le potentiel local, de renforcer le développement de la main-d’œuvre et d’ouvrir la voie à de nouvelles campagnes d’exploration dans le golfe de Guinée, renforçant ainsi la position de la région en tant que nouvelle frontière pour les investissements dans le gaz.

Transformer les projets bloqués en développements réalisables

Maintenant que Yoyo-Yolanda est unifié, l’accent est mis sur l’exécution. Il y a une fenêtre étroite pour monétiser les ressources gazières avant que la dynamique du marché mondial n’évolue, ce qui rend la rapidité et la coordination essentielles. Des autorisations accélérées, des processus transfrontaliers rationalisés et une gestion de projet décisive seront essentiels pour maintenir l’élan et la confiance des investisseurs.

Il sera tout aussi important de tirer parti des infrastructures régionales existantes. En utilisant des installations de traitement et d’exportation déjà en place, telles que Punta Europa, la Guinée équatoriale et le Cameroun peuvent réduire leurs coûts d’exploitation, raccourcir les délais de développement et accélérer la mise sur le marché du gaz. Pour les investisseurs, les progrès rapides réalisés sur le projet Yoyo-Yolanda enverront un signal clair indiquant que les deux pays sont alignés, axés sur le commerce et ouverts aux affaires.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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AUSTRIACARD Successfully Achieves mada Card Chip Profile Certification

Source: APO


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AUSTRIACARD HOLDINGS (www.AUSTRIACARD.com) is proud to announce it has successfully obtained the Card Chip Profile certification (Certificate No. CV071) with the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) for the mada debit card scheme, marking a significant milestone in the company’s expansion strategy.

This certification represents a major and important achievement for AUSTRIACARD, demonstrating the company’s commitment to meeting the highest international standards for payment card technology. The successful completion of SAMA’s rigorous certification process validates AUSTRIACARD’s technical excellence and quality standards in chip card manufacturing.

“We are immensely proud of this achievement,” said Mohamed Chemloul, Group CTO of AUSTRIACARD HOLDINGS. “This certification stands as a testament to our team’s dedication to excellence and our commitment to delivering world-class payment solutions. This achievement allows AUSTRIACARD to add KSA banks and financial institutions to our growing family of satisfied customers worldwide, further strengthening our position as a trusted partner in the global payments industry.”

Burak Bilge, EVP Türkiye, Middle East and Africa at AUSTRIACARD HOLDINGS, emphasized: “This certification enables us to bring our full suite of payment card solutions to the Saudi market. We are committed to being a long-term partner in the KSA and the broader Middle East region’s success journey, supporting the digital transformation initiatives. We look forward to partnering with banks and financial institutions to support their growth objectives and enhance their customer’s experience.”

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) represents one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving financial markets in the Middle East and North Africa region. With Vision 2030 driving digital transformation across all sectors, Saudi Arabia’s payment ecosystem is experiencing unprecedented growth and modernization. The mada scheme, as the national payment network, plays a crucial role in the KSA’s financial infrastructure, processing millions of transactions daily.

AUSTRIACARD is a global provider of identity and payment solutions with a strategic focus on digital transformation technologies powered by proprietary technology and AI capabilities. Headquartered in Vienna, Austria, the company operates 9 manufacturing hubs across strategic markets in Europe and the United States, maintaining a global sales footprint that ensures client proximity and service excellence.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of AUSTRIACARD HOLDINGS AG.

Contact Person:  
Theoni Dimopoulou,
Group Communications & Marketing Manager
Tel.: T: +43 (1) 61065 – 355
E-Mail: t.dimopoulou@austriacard.com
Website: www.AUSTRIACARD.com
Symbol: ACAG
ISIN: AT0000A325L0
Stock Exchanges: Vienna Prime Market, Athens Main Market

About AUSTRIACARD HOLDINGS AG:
AUSTRIACARD HOLDINGS AG leverages over 130 years of experience in information management, printing, and communications to deliver secure and transparent experiences for its customers. They offer a comprehensive suite of products and services, including payment solutions, identification solutions, smart cards, card personalization, digitization solutions, and secure data management. ACAG employs a global workforce of 2,400 people and is publicly traded on both the Athens and Vienna Stock Exchanges under the symbol ACAG. www.AUSTRIACARD.com

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Le moment du stockage en Afrique: pourquoi les solutions de bout en bout façonnent la prochaine phase de la croissance des énergies renouvelables

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

L’expansion des énergies renouvelables en Afrique s’accélère, portée par le déploiement du solaire en Afrique de l’Est, de l’Ouest et australe. Toutefois, à mesure que la capacité de production augmente, le principal défi du continent passe de l’installation à l’intégration. L’instabilité des réseaux, la dépendance au diesel et la faiblesse des infrastructures de transmission renforcent le rôle des systèmes de stockage d’énergie par batteries (BESS) en tant qu’infrastructures critiques plutôt que simples options complémentaires.

Dans de nombreux marchés africains, le stockage n’est pas motivé par le trading d’énergie ou l’arbitrage, mais par des besoins fondamentaux de fiabilité. Les micro-réseaux hybrides, les centrales solaires avec stockage et les systèmes de soutien au réseau sont de plus en plus nécessaires pour stabiliser la fréquence, réduire les pertes d’énergie (curtailment) et garantir une alimentation électrique continue pour les communautés et les industries.

Les températures élevées, la poussière et les environnements d’exploitation isolés élèvent encore les exigences en matière de conception des systèmes. Les projets requièrent désormais des technologies capables de fonctionner de manière sûre et continue dans des conditions difficiles, ainsi que des modèles de livraison allant au-delà du matériel pour inclure l’ingénierie, les systèmes de contrôle et l’exploitation à long terme.

Des composants à la livraison de solutions de bout en bout

À travers l’Afrique, les services publics et les développeurs passent progressivement de l’achat d’équipements autonomes à des systèmes de stockage intégrés combinant matériel, logiciels et support sur l’ensemble du cycle de vie. Cette évolution reflète une prise de conscience croissante : la performance du stockage dépend autant de la conception du système et de l’intelligence opérationnelle que de la technologie des batteries elle-même.

RelyEZ a structuré sa stratégie africaine autour d’une approche de bout en bout du stockage d’énergie, proposant à la fois des solutions intégrées pour les projets et des équipements indépendants. Son portefeuille repose sur trois éléments clés : la plateforme BESS conteneurisée GridUltra, la gamme Venture Series de solutions flexibles par application, et un système intégré de gestion de l’énergie (EMS).

La bancabilité et la gestion des risques deviennent centrales dans le déploiement du stockage, en particulier pour les projets à grande échelle et les micro-réseaux hybrides nécessitant des financements à long terme. En réponse, les fournisseurs de solutions renforcent leur crédibilité technique et financière par des validations indépendantes et des cadres assurantiels.

RelyEZ a obtenu la classification Tier-1 BESS et une notation de bancabilité BBB, avec des performances produits et des garanties de qualité soutenues par une couverture d’assurance de Munich Re. Cela reflète l’importance croissante accordée à la sécurité des projets, à l’assurance qualité et à la fiabilité opérationnelle à long terme.

Produits et plateformes conçus pour les conditions d’exploitation africaines

GridUltra est une plateforme BESS conteneurisée à refroidissement liquide, conçue pour fonctionner à haute température et pour des usages de longue durée. Son architecture privilégie la stabilité thermique, l’évolutivité modulaire et une sécurité renforcée — des exigences clés pour les projets utilitaires et commerciaux dans les climats exigeants de l’Afrique.

La gamme Venture Series étend cette plateforme à une famille de solutions adaptées à de multiples cas d’usage, notamment l’intégration des énergies renouvelables à grande échelle, l’alimentation de secours pour les secteurs commercial et industriel, ainsi que les micro-réseaux hybrides solaire-stockage-diesel. Cette structure modulaire permet un déploiement plus rapide tout en maintenant des standards système cohérents pour des projets de tailles et de localisations différentes.

Au niveau de l’intelligence, l’EMS de RelyEZ transforme les systèmes de stockage en actifs contrôlables pour le réseau électrique. Il permet la surveillance en temps réel, l’optimisation des stratégies de charge et de décharge, l’intégration avec la production solaire et diesel, ainsi que le support des services réseau tels que la gestion des pointes de demande et la stabilisation de la fréquence.

Une livraison de projets alignée avec les besoins de l’Afrique

Les projets actuels de RelyEZ en Afrique répondent aux priorités les plus urgentes du continent : l’accès à l’énergie et la fiabilité de l’alimentation électrique.

Au Kenya, l’entreprise a obtenu un contrat pour fournir des systèmes intégrés de micro-réseaux solaire-stockage-diesel à neuf villages isolés situés dans les comtés de Turkana, Marsabit, Samburu et Isiolo, dans le cadre du programme de la Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC). Ces systèmes visent à remplacer une production diesel peu fiable par une énergie hybride stable, améliorant l’accès à l’électricité tout en réduisant la consommation de carburant et les coûts d’exploitation.

En Afrique de l’Ouest, RelyEZ a également remporté un projet EPC de grande envergure au Burkina Faso, comprenant 40 MW de production photovoltaïque associés à un système de stockage par batteries de 10 MW / 30 MWh. Ce projet est destiné à soutenir l’alimentation électrique dans la région de Koudougou en renforçant la stabilité du réseau et en améliorant la fiabilité de l’approvisionnement grâce à l’intégration PV + BESS.

Perspectives

À mesure que la transition énergétique de l’Afrique entre dans une nouvelle phase, le stockage par batteries devient l’épine dorsale des systèmes électriques résilients. Les modèles de livraison de bout en bout combinant matériel robuste, contrôle intelligent et support sur le cycle de vie deviennent indispensables pour garantir la performance à long terme des projets.

Grâce à sa plateforme GridUltra, à ses solutions Venture Series et à sa technologie EMS, RelyEZ aligne ses capacités sur la demande croissante du continent pour des infrastructures de stockage d’énergie intégrées et fiables.

Distribué par APO Group pour RelyEZ.

Pour plus d’informations et pour toute discussion de projets liés à l’Afrique, veuillez contacter :
Jonathan Wei
wejianghai@relyez.com

Teddy Tang
teddy.tang@relyez.com

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Africa’s storage moment: Why end-to-end solutions are shaping the next phase of renewable growth

Source: APO – Report:

Africa’s renewable energy expansion is accelerating, led by solar deployment across East, West, and Southern Africa. Yet as generation capacity grows, the continent’s central challenge is shifting from installation to integration. Grid instability, diesel dependence, and weak transmission networks are placing new emphasis on battery energy storage systems (BESS) as critical infrastructure rather than optional add-ons.

In many African markets, storage is not driven by energy trading or arbitrage, but by fundamental reliability needs. Hybrid microgrids, solar-plus-storage plants, and grid-support systems are increasingly required to stabilize frequency, reduce curtailment, and ensure consistent electricity supply for communities and industry.

High ambient temperatures, dust, and remote operating environments further raise the bar for system design. Projects now demand technology that can perform safely and continuously under challenging conditions, as well as delivery models that extend beyond hardware to include engineering, controls, and long-term operation.

From components to end-to-end delivery

Across Africa, utilities and developers are increasingly shifting away from standalone equipment procurement toward integrated storage systems that combine hardware, software, and lifecycle support. This reflects growing awareness that storage performance depends as much on system design and operational intelligence as on battery technology itself.

RelyEZ has positioned its Africa strategy around an end-to-end approach to energy storage, delivering both integrated project solutions and standalone equipment. Its portfolio combines three core elements: the GridUltra containerized BESS platform, the Venture Series of flexible application solutions, and an integrated Energy Management System (EMS).

Bankability and risk management are becoming central to storage deployment, particularly for utility-scale and hybrid microgrid projects that depend on long-term financing. In response, solution providers are strengthening their technical and financial credibility through independent validation and insurance-backed frameworks. RelyEZ has achieved Tier-1 BESS classification and BBB bankability ratings, with product performance and quality warranty supported by insurance coverage from Munich Re, reflecting a growing emphasis on project security, safety assurance, and long-term operational reliability.

Products and platforms engineered for African operating conditions

GridUltra is a liquid-cooled containerized BESS platform designed for high-temperature operation and long-duration use. Its architecture prioritizes thermal stability, modular scalability, and enhanced safety key requirements for utility and commercial projects in Africa’s demanding climates.

The Venture Series extends this platform into a family of solutions tailored for multiple use cases, including utility-scale renewable integration, commercial and industrial backup power, and hybrid solar-storage-diesel microgrids. This modular structure allows faster deployment while maintaining consistent system standards across different project sizes and locations.

At the intelligence layer, RelyEZ’s EMS transforms storage systems into controllable grid assets. It enables real-time monitoring, optimized charge and discharge strategies, integration with solar and diesel generation, and support for grid services such as peak management and frequency stabilization.

Project delivery aligned with Africa’s needs

RelyEZ’s current African deployments reflect the continent’s most urgent priorities: energy access and reliability.

In Kenya, the company has secured a contract to deliver integrated solar-storage-diesel microgrid systems for nine remote villages across Turkana, Marsabit, Samburu, and Isiolo counties under the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC). These systems aim to replace unreliable diesel generation with stable hybrid power, improving electricity access while reducing fuel consumption and operating costs.

In West Africa, RelyEZ has also won a large-scale EPC project in Burkina Faso, comprising 40 MW of photovoltaic generation coupled with a 10 MW/30 MWh battery energy storage system. The project is designed to support the power supply in the Koudougou area by enhancing grid stability and improving supply reliability through PV-plus-BESS integration.

Looking ahead

As Africa’s renewable transition enters a new phase, battery storage is becoming the backbone of resilient power systems. End-to-end delivery models that combine robust hardware, intelligent control, and lifecycle support are increasingly essential to ensure long-term project performance.

Through its GridUltra platform, Venture Series solutions, and EMS technology, RelyEZ is aligning its capabilities with the continent’s growing demand for integrated and reliable energy storage infrastructure.

– on behalf of RelyEZ.

For further information and project discussions related to Africa, please contact:
Jonathan Wei
wejianghai@relyez.com

Teddy Tang
teddy.tang@relyez.com

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President Ramaphosa undertakes oversight visit to SARS National Command Centre

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 5 February 2026, undertake an oversight visit to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) National Command Centre in Brooklyn, Pretoria.

The visit forms part of a broader engagement with key government institutions, including the Ministry of Finance and National Treasury, aimed at demonstrating SARS’ progress and showcasing its modernisation initiatives.

SARS was established in terms of the South African Revenue Service Act, 1997 (Act No. 34 of 1997) to function as an autonomous agency responsible for administering South Africa’s tax system and customs service.

During his visit, President Ramaphosa will undertake a walkabout of exhibitions showcasing the work of various SARS business units, including Customs, Taxpayer Engagement, and the Modernisation and Innovation Hub.

The President will also be briefed on the operations and ongoing modernisation of the National Command Centre, which is designed to monitor tax compliance, revenue collection, and key operational metrics in real time.

The President will deliver a keynote address and interact with SARS staff members.

The Visit will take place as follows:

Date: Thursday, 05 February 2026
Time: 10h30
Venue: SARS National Command Centre, Brooklyn, Pretoria

NOTE TO MEDIA: DUE TO SPACE LIMITATIONS, A MEDIA POOL IS IN PLACE FOR THE VISIT. THE KEYNOTE ADDRESS WILL BE LIVE STREAMED ON ALL PRESIDENCY SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria