Category: Africa

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NERSA clarifies Small-Scale Embedded Generation regulations

Source: Government of South Africa

NERSA clarifies Small-Scale Embedded Generation regulations

The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has moved to provide clarity on the regulatory requirements for Small-Scale Embedded Generation (SSEG).

This after a media article claimed that members of the public had been threatened with fines or disconnection if they did not register their SSEG systems.

“NERSA wishes to clarify the applicable regulatory position to avoid public confusion and ensure that electricity consumers, installers and other stakeholders are correctly informed of the legal requirements governing embedded generation.

“According to the Electricity Regulation Act of 2006 (as amended), read with the Exemption and Registration Notice, the requirement to register an embedded generation facility is determined by whether the installation has a point of connection to the electricity grid and its installed capacity and not by whether electricity is exported to the grid or consumed on site,” the regulator said in a statement.

What this means

  • Small-scale embedded generation facilities with an installed capacity of 100kW or less, and with a point of connection to the electricity grid, are required to register with the relevant distributor (Eskom or the applicable licensed municipality).
  • Embedded generation facilities with an installed capacity of more than 100kW and a point of connection to the grid are required to register directly with NERSA.

“Embedded generation facilities without a point of connection to the electricity grid are exempt from registration requirements.

“These regulatory requirements exist to support the safe, reliable and efficient operation of the electricity system, including compliance with applicable technical standards, system planning and network protection.

“While a Certificate of Compliance confirms that an installation meets electrical safety requirements, registration serves a distinct regulatory purpose and does not duplicate safety certification processes,” the statement continued.

The regulator outlined the purpose behind these rules.

“NERSA emphasises that registration is not intended to discourage the uptake of renewable energy technologies, but rather to ensure that the integration of embedded generation occurs in a manner that protects the integrity of the electricity network and the interests of all electricity users.

“NERSA remains committed to enabling South Africa’s transition to a more diverse and sustainable electricity supply while ensuring compliance with the legislative and regulatory framework. Stakeholders are encouraged to engage with their licensed distributors or NERSA directly for accurate guidance on registration requirements,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Tourism a jewel in SA’s crown – President Ramaphosa

Source: Government of South Africa

Tourism a jewel in SA’s crown – President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa says government is “determined to strengthen the regulatory and policy environment to further grow” the tourism sector. 

The President addressed the nation through the weekly newsletter following the Tourism Department’s announcement that South Africa welcomed some 10.48 million international visitors last year, an increase of some 17.6% compared to 2024.

It is also the highest number of arrivals on record – surpassing pre-COVID-19 numbers in a “vote of confidence in a sector that continues to show great potential for further growth”.

“An increase in international visitors is also a vote of confidence in South Africa’s brand appeal, and in our reputation as a safe, reliable, value-for-money tourism destination.

“As government, we are determined to strengthen the regulatory and policy environment to further grow the sector. We are equally committed to deepening collaboration with the private sector, labour and other stakeholders to further bolster the industry,” President Ramaphosa said.

Building blocks

Last year, Cabinet endorsed the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan with initiatives aimed at improving the performance of the sector.

Tourism currently contributes nearly 9% to the South African Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

“[Initiatives] include the expansion of the Electronic Travel Authorisation system, which was successfully piloted during the G20 Summit last year, and is currently being rolled out in key tourism markets.

“We will also be strengthening the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme launched last year, which streamlines visa processes for groups whose applications are submitted by vetted tour operators. A significant number of tourists from key markets like India and China are already using group tour operators for a more structured, tailored travel experience.

“Improving connectivity is also being prioritised. We have seen an increase in direct flight routes to South Africa from key markets such as Australia and France,” he explained.

Additional tourism monitors have been deployed and a crime call centre by the private sector has been established to ensure the safety of tourists.

Furthermore, tourism infrastructure is also under improvement.

“At last year’s inaugural Tourism Infrastructure Investment Summit, eight projects worth R1 billion were launched, signalling renewed investor confidence in our tourism sector.

“Our strategic destination marketing efforts continue, as does the focus on niche markets such as halal and green tourism to attract diverse visitors,” the President noted.

Citizens are also being encouraged to “embrace the burgeoning tourism industry”.

“[The] Department of Tourism offers fully funded Mandarin language training for registered freelance and employed tourism guides to enable them to better support tourists from the growing Chinese market. We also continue to support the transformation of the industry through various support programmes.

“Retaining our reputation as a tourism destination of choice is a society-wide effort, one in which communities have a particularly important role to play. 

“Every South African should be a tourism ambassador and every community a potential tourist attraction. Our country is rich in natural beauty, history and culture, with much of this potential untapped,” President Ramaphosa said.

He noted that foreign visitors contribute to the country’s foreign earnings, “support local businesses, bolsters local economies and helps to create and sustain jobs”.

“Working together as government, communities and tour operators, we can popularise and attract more tourists to regions and locations that don’t traditionally feature highly as destinations for tourists.

“Working together as Government, industry, communities and civil society we can realise even greater value from this jewel in our nation’s crown,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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African Power & Energy Elites 2025/2026: Celebrating Visionary Leadership and Transformative Projects

Source: APO

ESI Africa proudly announces the release of the 10th Anniversary Edition of African Power & Energy Elites: Projects and People, a landmark publication spotlighting the executives, engineers, infrastructure projects and innovations shaping Africa’s power, energy, water, transport, agriculture and healthcare sectors.

The 2025/2026 edition is themed “Energy, Water & Transport Beyond Borders”, capturing Africa’s infrastructure renaissance in real time. From mega transmission projects and smart water systems to renewable energy corridors and digital platforms, the magazine chronicles how long-term strategy is becoming infrastructure, and how vision is translating into systems that endure.

The print edition will officially launch at Mining Indaba in February and will be distributed at key industry events throughout the year, including Enlit Africa in May. The digital edition is already available online.

What’s inside the African Power & Energy Elites 2025/2026 Edition

  • Leadership interviews: Industry trailblazers from across the continent share insights and experience, including Logan Moodley, Isabel Fick and Leria Arinaitwe.
  • Case studies: Showcasing Botswana’s transformative smart water metering project, South Africa’s first grid-forming renewable energy facility, and an innovative sustainable mining solution.
  • Project profiles: Highlighting landmark developments such as the Sejnane Drinking Water Supply Project in Tunisia, the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project in Tanzania, and the Cazombo Photovoltaic Park in Angola.
  • Future outlook: Expert predictions for 2026 covering energy access, mobility, climate resilience and integrated infrastructure systems.

Editor-in-Chief Nicolette Pombo-van Zyl asks:
“Do you hear the construction works underway as Africa’s future rises in steel, concrete, fibre, electrons and flowing water?”

She adds:
“Long-term strategies and carefully considered policies support this build-out. While the leaders and projects featured in this 10th edition of The Elites may differ in geography, scale and sector, they are united by a shared ambition to translate vision into reality.”

The publication also explores emerging trends such as decentralised energy systems, AI-driven grid optimisation and circular water solutions, offering readers a comprehensive view of Africa’s evolving infrastructure landscape.

African Power & Energy Elites 2025/2026 is published in collaboration with Conlog, African Legal Support Facility, GPT Renewable, Mzansi Energy, Shell and STS Association.

The digital edition is available at:
https://apo-opa.co/4qk3VXJ

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

Media Contact:
Nicolette Pombo-van Zyl
Editor-in-Chief, ESI Africa
Email: nicolette@wearevuka.com
Website: www.ESI-Africa.com

About ESI Africa:
ESI Africa is the continent’s leading source of power, energy and sector-coupling news, delivering trusted insights and connecting industry stakeholders for more than three decades.

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Africa Finance Corporation Acts as Financial Adviser on Landmark Power Sector Bond Issuance under Nigeria’s Presidential Power Sector Financial Reforms Programme

Source: APO

Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) (www.AfricaFC.org), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, is pleased to announce its role as Co-Financial Adviser on the successful issuance of the inaugural tranche of bonds under the Federal Government of Nigeria’s Presidential Power Sector Financial Reforms Programme (“PPSFRP” or the “Programme”).

The issuance of ₦501,000,000,000 (Five Hundred and One Billion Naira), marks a critical milestone in the implementation of the ₦4 trillion Power Sector Bond Programme, designed to resolve over a decade of legacy debt obligations within the Nigerian electricity supply industry.

The Programme was overseen by the Presidential Power Sector Debt Reduction Committee (PPSDRC), with the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Energy providing technical leadership and implemented through Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET)’s special purpose vehicle – NBET Finance Company Plc. The issuance proceeds will settle verified, overdue receivables owed to Power Generation Companies (GenCos) for electricity supplied between February 2015 and March 2025, extinguishing legacy claims and injecting liquidity into the electricity industry.

This transformational initiative by the Federal Government of Nigeria is designed to restore financial stability, enhance liquidity and strengthen the balance sheet of Nigerian GenCos through the clearance of outstanding arrears. By addressing these legacy obligations, the initiative is expected to boost domestic and international investor confidence and attract fresh capital across the entire electricity sector value chain.

The transaction received strong support from the pension fund investment community with about 50% of the total financing secured from Pension Fund Administrators, successfully mobilizing domestic capital for critical electricity infrastructure in Nigeria.

AFC provided comprehensive financial advisory services to the Federal Government of Nigeria on this landmark transaction, including the design of the Programme’s negotiation strategy framework, support in negotiating and executing Settlement Agreements with GenCos, and in the structuring of the bond issuance. Working in partnership with CardinalStone Partners as co-Financial Advisers, this transaction reflects AFC’s deep and local market expertise in delivering complex, high-impact policy advice and financial solutions that catalyse sector-wide reforms.

Olu Verheijen, Special Advisor to the President on Energy said:

“The Programme represents a decisive reset of Nigeria’s electricity market, combining debt resolution with broader financial and structural reforms. AFC brought strong sector expertise, deep local market knowledge, and a clear understanding of the market’s commercial complexities, playing a critical role in delivering a credible outcome that supports liquidity restoration, investor confidence and long-term sustainability.”

Banji Fehintola, Executive Board Member and Head, Financial Services at Africa Finance Corporation said:

“The successful issuance of the inaugural tranche under the Power Sector Bond Programme underscores AFC’s commitment to supporting transformative reforms in Nigeria’s power sector. By resolving long-standing liquidity challenges and restoring confidence among investors and operators, this transaction lays the foundation for sustainable growth and improved electricity supply across the country.”

When completed, the Programme will impact approximately 5,398MW of electricity generation capacity by Nigerian GenCos, effectively finalizing settlement of payments for 290,644.84GWhr of electricity billed since February 2015 and providing a strong foundation for new investments into capacity enhancement and expansion by companies serving 12 million active registered customers across the country.

The Programme forms a fundamental aspect of the energy sector reforms by the Nigerian government, alongside significant ongoing investments in consumer metering and transmission infrastructure, and a transition to bilateral electricity trading between wholesale counterparties based on market-reflective pricing. Together, these reforms are aimed at ensuring the evolution of a viable and sustainable electricity market in Nigeria to support long-term industrial growth and development.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC).

Media Enquires:
Yewande Thorpe
Communications
Africa Finance Corporation
Mobile: +234 1 279 9654
Email: yewande.thorpe@africafc.org

About AFC:
AFC was established in 2007 to be the catalyst for pragmatic infrastructure and industrial investments across Africa across Africa. AFC’s approach combines specialist industry expertise with a focus on financial and technical advisory, project structuring, project development, and risk capital to address Africa’s infrastructure development needs and drive sustainable economic growth.

Seventeen years on, AFC has developed a track record as the partner of choice in Africa for investing and delivering on instrumental, high-quality infrastructure assets that provide essential services in the core infrastructure sectors of power, natural resources, heavy industry, transport, and telecommunications. AFC has 48 member countries and has invested US$18.5 billion across Africa since inception.

www.AfricaFC.org

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APO Group Strengthens Advisory Leadership with the Promotion of João Marques to Executive Director, Strategic Advisory

Source: APO

APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading multi-award-winning, pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, is pleased to announce the promotion of João Marques to Executive Director, Strategic Advisory. The appointment, effective 1 December 2025, reflects APO Group’s commitment to strengthening its strategic advisory capabilities for clients across Africa and around the world.

João, who previously served as Director of Strategy, brings more than 15 years of experience in international strategy, corporate positioning, and high-level advisory support. Since joining APO Group, he has led the company’s Strategy Division, advancing its narrative design frameworks, thought-leadership programmes, and executive advisory offerings for governments, global corporates, and development institutions.

A multilingual strategist fluent in English, Portuguese, French, and Spanish, João has worked across Africa, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, advising organisations such as the United Nations Global Compact, Nestlé, Emirates, Canon, NBA Africa, and Afreximbank. His expertise blends strategic consulting with creative storytelling, helping clients articulate policy and business priorities with clarity, credibility, and global resonance. João is also a published author and a recognised speaker and moderator, bringing deep expertise in geopolitical and sectoral issues to senior leaders navigating Africa’s communications landscape.

In his new role as Executive Director, Strategic Advisory, João will oversee APO Group’s strategic consulting portfolio, expand C-suite advisory services, and strengthen the company’s positioning as a trusted partner for organisations seeking to enhance reputation, influence, and impact across Africa’s key markets.  He will also lead the development of strategic pathways for high-growth industries and deepen APO Group’s ability to convert advisory work into long-term commercial value.

Bas Wijne, CEO of APO Group, said, “João has been a driving force in elevating our strategic advisory practice and strengthening our value proposition to businesses across the continent and beyond. His appointment as Executive Director is a natural evolution of his contributions to APO Group’s growth, reputation, and strategic direction. I look forward to working even more closely with him as we continue to expand our advisory capabilities and deliver world-class strategic counsel to our clients.”

“Africa’s communications landscape is transforming, and organisations across the continent need partners who can help them articulate ambition, build trust, and shape narratives with long-term impact. I am proud to take on this role at a moment when APO Group is expanding its strategic advisory footprint, and I look forward to contributing to work that strengthens African institutions, industries, and ideas,” added João.

João also serves as a strategic advisor to various international initiatives that support innovation and sustainable development in emerging markets, further reinforcing APO Group’s commitment to driving positive impact across Africa.

With this appointment, APO Group continues to invest in top-tier strategic talent and strengthen its leadership in the African communications and advisory landscape.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

Media contact: 
marie@apo-opa.com 

About APO Group: 
Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) is the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact both on the continent and globally.   

Our commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including a PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award and multiple PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards. In 2023, we were named the Leading Public Relations Firm Africa and the Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa in the World Business Outlook Awards, and the Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy of the Year South Africa in 2024 in the same awards. In 2025, Brands Review Magazine acknowledged us as the Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa for the second consecutive year. They also named us the Best PR Agency and the Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa in 2024. Additionally, in 2025, we were honoured with the Gold distinction for Best PR Campaign and Bronze in the Special Event category at the Davos Communications Awards. 

APO Group’s esteemed clientele, which includes global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, the UNDP, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa’s Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape. With a multicultural team across Africa, we offer unmatched, truly pan-African insights, expertise, and reach across the continent. APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences.  

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O APO Group reforça a liderança em consultoria com a promoção de João Marques a Diretor Executivo de Consultoria Estratégica

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), o multipremiado serviço pan-africano líder de consultoria em comunicação e distribuição de comunicados de imprensa, tem o prazer de anunciar a promoção de João Marques a Diretor Executivo de Consultoria Estratégica. A nomeação, com efeitos a partir de 1 de dezembro de 2025, reflete o empenho do APO Group em reforçar as suas capacidades de consultoria estratégica para clientes em África e em todo o mundo.

O João, que anteriormente desempenhava o cargo de Diretor de Estratégia, tem mais de 15 anos de experiência em estratégia internacional, posicionamento corporativo e apoio consultivo de alto nível. Desde que se juntou ao APO Group, tem liderado a Divisão de Estratégia da empresa, fazendo avançar os seus quadros de conceção narrativa, programas de liderança discursiva e ofertas de consultoria executiva para governos, empresas globais e instituições de desenvolvimento.

Estratega multilingue, fluente em inglês, português, francês e espanhol, João trabalhou em África, na Europa, na Ásia e na América Latina, aconselhando organizações como o United Nations Global Compact, a Nestlé, a Emirates, a Canon, a NBA Africa e o Afreximbank. A sua experiência combina consultoria estratégica com narração criativa, ajudando os clientes a articular prioridades políticas e empresariais com clareza, credibilidade e ressonância global. O João é também um autor publicado e um orador e moderador reconhecido, trazendo uma profunda experiência em questões geopolíticas e setoriais aos mais seniores líderes do panorama da comunicação em África.

Na sua nova função de Diretor Executivo de Consultoria Estratégica, o João irá supervisionar o portefólio de consultoria estratégica do APO Group, expandir os serviços de consultoria C-suite e reforçar o posicionamento da empresa como um parceiro de confiança para organizações que procuram melhorar a reputação, influência e impacto nos principais mercados de África.  Irá também liderar o desenvolvimento de vias estratégicas para setores de elevado crescimento e aprofundar a capacidade do APO Group para converter o trabalho de consultoria em valor comercial a longo prazo.

Bas Wijne, CEO do APO Group, afirmou: “O João tem sido uma força motriz na elevação da nossa prática de consultoria estratégica e no reforço da nossa proposta de valor para as empresas de todo o continente e não só. A sua nomeação como Diretor Executivo é uma evolução natural das suas contribuições para o crescimento, reputação e direção estratégica do APO Group. Estou entusiasmado por trabalhar ainda mais de perto com ele à medida que continuamos a expandir as nossas capacidades de consultoria e a prestar aconselhamento estratégico de classe mundial aos nossos clientes.”

“O panorama das comunicações em África está a transformar-se e as organizações de todo o continente precisam de parceiros que as ajudem a articular a ambição, a criar confiança e a moldar narrativas com impacto a longo prazo. É com orgulho que assumo esta função numa altura em que o APO Group está a expandir a sua área de consultoria estratégica e espero contribuir para um trabalho que fortaleça as instituições, indústrias e ideias africanas”, acrescentou João.

O João é também consultor estratégico de várias iniciativas internacionais que apoiam a inovação e o desenvolvimento sustentável em mercados emergentes, reforçando ainda mais o compromisso do APO Group em promover um impacto positivo em África.

Com esta nomeação, o APO Group continua a investir em talentos estratégicos de alto nível e a reforçar a sua liderança no panorama africano das comunicações e da consultoria.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para APO Group.

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

Sobre o APO Group: 
Fundado em 2007, o APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) é o principal serviço pan-africano de consultoria em comunicação e distribuição de comunicados de imprensa. Reconhecido pela nossa experiência profundamente enraizada em África e perspetiva global expansiva, especializamo-nos em elevar a reputação e o valor da marca de organizações privadas e públicas em toda a África. Como parceiro de confiança, a nossa missão é aproveitar o poder dos meios de comunicação social, elaborando estratégias personalizadas que geram um impacto tangível e mensurável, tanto no continente como a nível global. 

O nosso compromisso para com a excelência e a inovação foi reconhecido com vários prémios de prestígio, incluindo um Prémio SABRE Global e vários Prémios SABRE Africa da PRovoke Media. Em 2023, fomos nomeados a Empresa Líder de Relações Públicas em África e a Consultora Líder Pan-Africana de Comunicações em África nos World Business Outlook Awards, e a Melhor Consultora de Relações Públicas e Media do Ano na África do Sul em 2024 nos mesmos prémios. Em 2025, a revista Brands Review reconheceu-nos como a principal consultora de comunicação em África pelo segundo ano consecutivo. Também nos nomearam a melhor agência de relações públicas e a principal plataforma de distribuição de comunicados de imprensa em África em 2024. Além disso, em 2025, fomos distinguidos com a distinção de Ouro para a Melhor Campanha de RP e Bronze na categoria de Evento Especial nos Prémios de Comunicação de Davos. 

A estimada clientela do APO Group, que inclui gigantes globais como a Canon, a Nestlé, a Western Union, o PNUD, a Network International, a Câmara Africana de Energia, a Mercy Ships, a Marriott, a Africa’s Business Heroes e a Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflete a nossa capacidade inigualável de navegar no complexo panorama dos meios de comunicação africanos. Com uma equipa multicultural em toda a África, oferecemos conhecimentos, experiência e alcance inigualáveis e verdadeiramente pan-africanos em todo o continente. O APO Group dedica-se a reformular as narrativas sobre África, desafiando estereótipos e trazendo histórias africanas inspiradoras para audiências globais, com a nossa experiência no desenvolvimento e apoio a campanhas de relações públicas em todo o mundo, posicionando-nos de forma única para amplificar as mensagens de marcas, melhorar a reputação e conectar eficazmente com o público-alvo. 

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APO Group renforce son leadership en matière de conseil avec la promotion de João Marques au poste de Directeur Exécutif, Conseil Stratégique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), le leader panafricain du conseil en communication et de la distribution de communiqués de presse, annonce avec fierté la promotion de João Marques au poste de Directeur Exécutif, Conseil Stratégique. Cette nomination, effective au 1er décembre 2025, témoigne de l’engagement d’APO Group à renforcer ses compétences en matière de conseil stratégique auprès de ses clients  à travers l’Afrique et dans le monde entier.

João, qui a précédemment occupé le poste de Directeur de la stratégie, apporte plus de 15 années d’expérience en stratégie internationale, positionnement corporate et conseil de haut niveau. Depuis son arrivée chez APO Group, il a dirigé la Division Stratégie de l’entreprise, développant ses cadres de conception narrative, ses programmes de leadership éclairé et ses offres de conseil exécutif destinées aux gouvernements, aux grandes entreprises mondiales et aux institutions de développement.

Stratège multilingue maîtrisant l’anglais, le portugais, le français et l’espagnol, João a travaillé en Afrique, en Europe, en Asie et en Amérique latine, conseillant des organisations telles que le Pacte mondial des Nations Unies, Nestlé, Emirates, Canon, NBA Africa et Afreximbank. Son expertise associe le conseil stratégique au storytelling créatif, aidant les clients à exprimer leurs priorités politiques et commerciales avec clarté, crédibilité et une résonance mondiale. . Auteur publié, conférencier et animateur reconnu, João apporte une expertise pointue des enjeux géopolitiques et sectoriels aux dirigeants évoluant dans le paysage de la communication africain.

Dans ses nouvelles fonctions de Directeur Exécutif, Conseil Stratégique, João supervisera le portefeuille de conseil stratégique d’APO Group, développera les services de conseil destinés aux dirigeants (C-suits) et r renforcera le positionnement de l’entreprise en tant que partenaire de confiance pour les organisations souhaitant accroître leur réputation, leur influence et leur impact sur les principaux marchés africains. Il pilotera également l’élaboration de stratégies pour les secteurs à forte croissance et renforcera la capacité d’APO Group à transformer ses missions de conseil en valeur commerciale durable.

Bas Wijne, PDG d’APO Group, a déclaré : « João a joué un rôle déterminant dans le développement de notre activité de conseil stratégique et le renforcement de notre proposition de valeur auprès des entreprises à travers le continent et au-delà. Sa nomination au poste de Directeur Exécutif s’inscrit dans la continuité de sa contribution à la croissance, à la réputation et à l’orientation stratégique d’APO Group. Je me réjouis de collaborer encore plus étroitement avec lui afin de poursuivre le développement de nos compétences en matière de conseil et d’offrir à nos clients des conseils stratégiques de premier ordre ».

João a déclaré : « Le paysage de lacommunication en Afrique est en pleine transformation, et les organisations du continent ont besoin de partenaires capables de les aider à définir leurs ambitions, à instaurer la confiance et  à façonner des récits porteurs d’impact durable. Je suis fier d’assumer ce rôle à un moment où APO Group étend son influence en matière de conseil stratégique, et je me réjouis de contribuer à un travail qui renforce les institutions, les secteurs d’activités et les idées africaines ».

João exerce également la fonction de conseiller stratégique auprès de diverses initiatives internationales qui soutiennent l’innovation et le développement durable dans les marchés émergents, renforçant ainsi l’engagement d’APO Group à générer un impact positif à travers l’Afrique.

Avec cette nomination, APO Group poursuit son investissement dans des talents stratégiques de premier plan et consolide son leadership dans le domaine de la communication et du conseil en Afrique.

Distribué par APO Group pour APO Group.

Contact presse : 
marie@apo-opa.com 

À propos d’APO Group : 
Fondée en 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) est le leader panafricain du conseil en communication et de la distribution de communiqués de presse.

Réputés pour notre expertise africaine profondément enracinée et notre perspective globale, nous sommes spécialisés dans l’optimisation de la réputation et de la valeur de la marque des organisations privées et publiques à travers l’Afrique.

En tant que partenaire de confiance, notre mission est d’exploiter le pouvoir des médias, en élaborant des stratégies sur mesure qui ont un impact tangible et mesurable en Afrique et au-delà.

Notre engagement en faveur de l’excellence et de l’innovation a été récompensé par des prix prestigieux, notamment un PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award et plusieurs PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards.

Nous avons été nommés Leading Public Relations Firm Africa et Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa en 2023, et Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy of the Year South Africa en 2024 et en 2025, lors des World Business Outlook Awards.

En 2025, Brands Review Magazine nous a reconnus en tant que Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa pour la seconde année consécutive. Le magazine nous a également nommé Best PR Agency et Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa en 2024.

En 2025, nous avons reçu la médaille d’or de la meilleure campagne RP et la médaille de bronze des événements hors catégorie aux Davos Communications Awards. 

La clientèle estimée d’APO Group, qui comprend des géants mondiaux tels que Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, le PNUD, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa’s Business Heroes et Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflète notre capacité inégalée à évoluer dans l’écosystème médiatique africain complexe. Avec une équipe multiculturelle à travers l’Afrique, nous offrons des perspectives et une portée inégalée à travers le continent.

APO Group se consacre à la refonte de la narration sur l’Afrique, à la remise en question des stéréotypes et à la présentation de récits africains inspirants à un public mondial. Notre expertise dans l’élaboration et l’accompagnement de campagnes de relations publiques dans le monde entier nous permet d’amplifier les messages des marques, de renforcer les réputations et d’établir un lien pertinent avec les publics cibles.  

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President Ramaphosa to address Afreximbank Accession ceremony

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Wednesday , 04 February 2026, deliver an address at the signing of the Instrument of Accession by South Africa to the Establishment Agreement of the African Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank). 

The signing ceremony marks South Africa’s formal transition to Class A Shareholder status in Afreximbank and signals the activation of a strategic partnership aimed at advancing industrial development, export-led growth, and deeper intra-African trade integration.

Afreximbank is a pan-African multilateral financial institution that facilitates, promotes and expands intra- and extra-African trade.

The bank is a key player in financing the continent’s economic development and industrialisation.  

The ceremony will be attended by the President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, Dr George Elombi; members of the Bank’s Board and management; Ministers, senior government officials, captains of industry and representatives of the diplomatic corps. 

The partnership with Afreximbank is expected to support priority areas including industrial competitiveness, transformation and inclusive growth, as well as the expansion of intra-African trade and investment. 

Sovereign membership offers South African companies, commercial banks as well as State Owned Enterprises (SOEs), more competitive trade finance; expanded funding for trade activities under the AfCFTA; greater participation in cross-border projects and investments; increased partnerships and cooperation with other African financial institutions, and access to various risk mitigation tools. 

President Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address, outlining South Africa’s vision for industrialisation, export diversification, decarbonisation, and digitisation, as well as the country’s role in advancing Africa’s economic integration in line with the bank’s strategic mandate.

President Ramaphosa will address and officiate the signing ceremony of the Instrument of Accession by the Republic of South Africa to the Establishment Agreement of the African Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank) as follows: 
Date: Wednesday, 4 February 2026 
Venue: The Westcliff Hotel, Johannesburg 
Time: 08:00 – 10:00 am 

Members of the media who wish to attend the session are advised to RSVP by sending  details to Khutjo Sebata on Khutjo@presidency.gov.za/079 898 4621  or Phumzile Kotane on pkotane@thedtic.gov.za/071 462 8246  by 14h00 on Tuesday , 03 February 2026. 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

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Strengthening Public Health Security at South Africa’s Borders: First Frontline FETP Cohort Graduates

Source: APO


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The World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), the National Department of Health (NDoH), and the Border Management Authority (BMA) successfully concluded South Africa’s first ever Field Epidemiology Training Programme (FETP) for Points of Entry (PoE) Frontline staff from 26–30 January 2026 in Johannesburg. This inaugural cohort marks a historic advancement in national border health surveillance and frontline detection capacities.

“This ceremony marks more than the completion of a training programme; it represents an important step forward in strengthening South Africa’s public health security—your journey has been both demanding and transformative.” — Ms. Shenaaz El-Halabi, WHO Representative.

This first of its kind initiative was designed to strengthen capacity for outbreak detection, surveillance and rapid response to public health threats at PoE and across provinces. The twelve weeks training followed a rigorous cycle that began with curriculum adaptation to suit PoE nature of work and staffing in October 2025 and included three workshops, two phases of fieldwork and sustained mentorship from WHO and NICD Technical Officers. The full cycle ran from 3 November 2025 to 30 January 2026.

Broadly, participants completed modules covering POE surveillance, traveler screening, reporting pathways and International Health Regulations (IHR) obligations, complemented by applied epidemiology projects, real-time site assessments and field based exercises. The PoE FETP curriculum covered foundational epidemiology, border health surveillance, data management and analysis, emergency preparedness, and full outbreak investigation skills. It also built strong competencies in applied epidemiology through case studies, problem analysis, laboratory linkages, scientific writing, communication, and preparation of documentation through group and individual work.

Speaking on the importance of mentorship and frontline vigilance, the NICD Director of South African FETP and AFENET Board Chair, Dr. Lazarus Kuonza, reminded the cohort:

“Your role at our borders is vital—every alert you detect and every decision you make protects the entire nation. Continue mentoring others, because strengthening each colleague strengthens South Africa’s first line of defense against cross border disease threats.”

The NDoH Chief Director for Environmental Health and Port Health Services, Ms. Aneliswa Cele as the leader who envisions the future of PoE capacity, emphasized the need to build on this achievement: “Let us not end here — we need to expand this training to more officials and integrate the skills gained into routine surveillance and response functions at Points of Entry. Let us not lose the momentum we have started.” Her message reinforces the commitment to sustained capacity building within border environments. 

Echoing this forward focused vision, Ms. Funeka Bongweni, Deputy Assistant Commissioner of the BMA, highlighted the sector’s long-term aspirations: 

“From this work we want to see a growing contribution to the body of knowledge for Ports of Entry—this is only the beginning in laying a strong foundation.”

As South Africa’s first POE FETP frontline cohort, graduates are now equipped to enhance routine surveillance, improve early detection and reporting, support outbreak investigations and contribute to future training cycles through mentorship.

WHO, NDoH, NICD and BMA congratulate the pioneering cohort and extend appreciation to all facilitators, mentors and partners whose dedication made this milestone possible. Together, we advance towards a more resilient South Africa, capable of detecting and responding to public health threats at every point of entry.

This milestone was made possible through the Pandemic Fund-supported project.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – South Africa.

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Turning Plans into Protection: Improving Capacity for Better Leprosy Case Management and Mass Drug Administration in Limpopo Province of South Africa

Source: APO


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The World Health Organisation (WHO) Country Office for South Africa in collaboration with the National Department of Health (NDoH) and the Limpopo Provincial Department of Health, conducted an integrated Leprosy Case Management and Mass Drug Administration (MDA) Training Workshop in Tzaneen, Limpopo Province, from 26 to 28 January 2026.

The workshop formed part of South Africa’s efforts to advance the control and elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), in line with the WHO NTD Roadmap 2021–2030 and Sustainable Development Goal target 3.3.

While leprosy prevalence in South Africa remains low, sporadic cases continue to occur, underscoring the need for sustained capacity in early detection, effective treatment, and prevention of disability. In parallel, schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiases (STH) remain endemic in several provinces, particularly affecting school-aged children and underserved communities. As the country prepares to scale up MDA using WHO-donated medicines, strengthening provincial and district readiness is critical.

The three-day workshop focused on improving technical and operational capacity for leprosy diagnosis and case management, promoting stigma reduction and referral pathways, and strengthening planning and implementation for safe and effective MDA. Participants also worked on developing provincial and district microplans to support programme rollout.

The workshop had 70 multi-disciplinary participants, which included provincial and district health officials, clinicians, environmental health practitioners, pharmacists, and programme managers. Technical facilitation was provided by WHO experts, the National Department of Health, academic institutions, The Leprosy Mission South Africa and the National Institute of Communicable Diseases. Mr Patrick Hlungwani from the National Department of Health emphasised the need to strengthen leprosy surveillance and reinforce multisectoral stakeholder collaboration to ensure the successful implementation of the MDA.

Dr Dhruv Pandey, Medical Officer, Tropical and Vector Borne Diseases Multicounty Assignment Team working with WHO in Southern Africa, underscored the urgency by saying that: “Schistosomiasis and STH control require sustained, multi-sectoral commitment. Integrating MDA into existing platforms is essential to reach vulnerable populations efficiently, in line with the WHO NTD Roadmap.”

The workshop strengthened coordination, readiness, and technical capacity, contributing to South Africa’s broader commitment to equitable access to NTD prevention and care, and coinciding with preparations for the World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day.

Together, these efforts highlight South Africa’s continued leadership in advancing the prevention, control and elimination of neglected tropical diseases.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – South Africa.