Category: Africa

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Africa No Filter annonce la création de son conseil inaugural alors que l’entreprise élargit sa portée sur le continent et au-delà

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Il faut tout un village pour changer la narrative, et le village d’Africa No Filter (https://AfricaNoFilter.org) vient juste de s’agrandir.

Africa No Filter (ANF) annonce aujourd’hui la formation de son conseil inaugural : un collectif de huit dirigeants hautement respectés dont l’expertise couvre les médias, la finance, la philanthropie, le droit, le plaidoyer et la recherche. Leur nomination marque un nouveau chapitre pour l’organisation, qui est maintenant une entité indépendante, dirigée par des Africains et enregistrée à Maurice après cinq ans en tant que projet basé aux États-Unis.

Le conseil d’ANF rassemble des personnes qui ont non seulement excellé dans leurs domaines, mais que Moky Makura, directrice exécutive d’Africa No Filter, admire aussi profondément pour la façon dont elles œuvrent en faveur du continent.

« Les récits façonnent tout, de la politique à la réputation en passant par les investissements et les opportunités », déclare Makura. « Alors qu’Africa No Filter entre dans cette nouvelle ère d’indépendance, ce conseil renforce sa gouvernance et précise son approche stratégique. Ce sont des personnes qui comprennent les enjeux, croient au potentiel de l’Afrique et sont déterminées à faire en sorte que l’Afrique raconte sa véritable histoire. »

Au cours des cinq dernières années, Africa No Filter a engagé plus de 7,5 millions USD dans l’écosystème créatif et médiatique africain, soutenant les narrateurs, les chercheurs et les plateformes qui remettent en question les représentations réductrices et obsolètes du continent.

Ses travaux ont attiré certains des bailleurs de fonds les plus influents au monde, notamment la Fondation Gates et la Fondation Mastercard, aux côtés de ses membres fondateurs, la Fondation Ford, Luminate et la Fondation Hilton, la Fondation Hewlett et la Fondation Mellon, qui continuent de soutenir la mission d’ANF consistant à faire évoluer les récits mondiaux sur l’Afrique.

À ce moment charnière, le conseil servira de comité de réflexion stratégique et d’organe de direction, renforçant la gouvernance, accélérant l’impact et élargissant la portée de l’organisation sur le continent et au-delà.

Voici les membres du conseil 2025 d’Africa No Filter :

Richard Addy, stratège multiprimé et cofondateur du cabinet de conseil international en stratégie d’audience AKAS, reconnu comme l’un des 100 meilleurs experts mondiaux des médias.

Nousrath Bhugeloo, cadre supérieure chevronnée des services financiers, directrice exécutive et présidente de Nexus Global Financial Services.  

Yacine Djibo, fondatrice et directrice exécutive de Speak Up Africa, dont le plaidoyer a remodelé le débat politique sur la santé, l’assainissement et le développement durable sur l’ensemble du continent.  

Ferdinand Mokete, directeur de KPMG South Africa et chargé de cours de MBA à la Wits Business School, représentant l’avant-garde de l’excellence africaine en matière de leadership économique et de gouvernance.

Françoise Moudouthe, CEO de l’African Women’s Development Fund et fondatrice d’Eyala, une plateforme en ligne qui amplifie les voix féministes africaines.

Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, entrepreneur franco-gabonais et fondateur d’APO Group, un service panafricain de conseil en communication et de distribution de communiqués de presse primé. Nicolas figure parmi les 100 Africains les plus influents en 2023 et 2024.

Anshi Saminaden, conseillère juridique principale à l’African Leadership University, reconnue pour son leadership en matière de gouvernance institutionnelle, de négociation et de gestion des investissements.

Natasha Kofoworola Quist, fondatrice de Quest Advisory Africa, avec plus de 25 ans d’expérience dans les domaines de l’action humanitaire, de la conservation, de la philanthropie et du secteur privé.

Chaque membre apporte une perspective unique, mais tous partagent une conviction commune : celle que l’histoire de l’Afrique doit être racontée de manière plus complète, plus équitable et par les Africains eux-mêmes.

Yacine Djibo estime que le futur récit doit enfin refléter la réalité : « un continent de créativité, d’innovation et de possibilités, où les voix africaines définissent l’histoire et inspirent la confiance, les investissements et l’appropriation depuis l’intérieur du continent, et au-delà ».

Pour Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, lutter contre les stéréotypes n’est pas seulement une question éthique, mais aussi stratégique. En promouvant des récits authentiques de progrès, explique-t-il, « les médias peuvent attirer les investissements et contribuer à transformer les perspectives économiques de l’Afrique ».

Anshi Saminaden s’en fait l’écho, soulignant le pouvoir de la narration authentique pour « diriger les investissements et le soutien là où ils sont le plus nécessaires, libérant ainsi le pouvoir humain et la transformation de l’Afrique ».

Nousrath Bhugeloo note qu’une gouvernance forte fait partie de la manière dont l’Afrique narre son histoire, et que l’engagement d’ANF à mettre en place des institutions résilientes et dirigées par des Africains est aussi important que les récits qu’il amplifie.

Avec une gouvernance renforcée, une expertise continentale élargie et une empreinte mondiale croissante, la transition d’Africa No Filter vers une entité indépendante marque bien plus qu’un changement organisationnel. Il s’agit d’une déclaration d’intention : une nouvelle ère dans laquelle l’Afrique maîtrise son propre récit, selon ses propres termes

Distribué par APO Group pour Africa No Filter.

Demandes de renseignements : Lerato@africanofilter.org

À propos d’Africa No Filter :
Africa No Filter est une organisation de plaidoyer dédiée au changement des récits stéréotypés sur l’Afrique en soutenant une narration qui reflète un continent dynamique synonyme de progrès, d’innovation et d’opportunités. La vocation d’ANF consiste à lutter contre les récits qui réduisent l’Afrique à un leadership médiocre, à la pauvreté, à la corruption, à la maladie et aux conflits, et à faire résonner des histoires plus précises, équilibrées et inspirantes. Pour plus d’informations, visitez www.AfricaNoFilter.org.

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La Banque africaine de développement et la Fédération panafricaine des experts-comptables lancent une initiative de 5,2 millions de dollars pour professionnaliser le secteur de la comptabilité en Afrique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org) et la Fédération panafricaine des comptables (PAFA) ont lancé un projet d’appui institutionnel de 5,2 millions de dollars pour remédier à la grave pénurie de comptables et d’auditeurs qualifiés dans le secteur public en Afrique.

La cérémonie de lancement s’est tenue le 26 novembre dans les locaux du South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA) à Johannesburg.

Le projet « Renforcement de la Fédération panafricaine des comptables et Résilience de la gestion des finances publiques (GFP) en Afrique » vise à harmoniser les normes, outils et pratiques comptables professionnels dans les pays africains, à renforcer les capacités institutionnelles et professionnelles des organisations comptables professionnelles, à améliorer la qualité de l’information financière dans les États en transition, et à professionnaliser les comptables et les auditeurs du secteur public. Le financement de 5,2 millions de dollars sera octroyé sous forme de don par la Facilité d’appui à la transition du Groupe de la Banque.

« Une gestion des finances publiques rigoureuse et transparente est essentielle pour assurer la résilience des économies et l’amélioration des services aux citoyens », a déclaré Kennedy Mbekeani, directeur général du Bureau régional de développement et de prestation de services pour l’Afrique australe de la Banque, à l’issue de l’événement de lancement. « Grâce à ce partenariat avec la PAFA, nous investissons dans les professionnels et les institutions qui protègent les ressources publiques ».

Le Groupe de la Banque a choisi la PAFA comme partenaire de mise en œuvre du projet en raison de son rayonnement pancontinental inégalé. Elle regroupe 57 organisations professionnelles de comptabilité dans 47 pays. Le partenariat s’appuiera également sur l’Initiative pour la professionnalisation en Afrique, une collaboration entre la PAFA, l’Organisation africaine des institutions supérieures de contrôle des finances publiques (AFROSAI) et l’Association africaine des comptables généraux.

Alta Prinsloo, directrice générale de la PAFA, a déclaré : « Ce partenariat avec la Banque africaine de développement constitue une étape décisive dans le renforcement du paysage de la gestion des finances publiques en Afrique. En investissant dans la professionnalisation des comptables et des auditeurs, nous renforçons les compétences, les institutions et les normes qui favorisent la transparence, la confiance et une gouvernance efficace. La PAFA est fière de mener ce travail avec ses partenaires à travers le continent. »

En outre, le projet visant à relever ce défi urgent mettra en œuvre des programmes d’apprentissage, renforcera la capacité institutionnelle des organisations professionnelles de comptabilité et stimulera la participation des femmes à la profession grâce à un mentorat et à une formation ciblés.

Cette initiative devrait également contribuer à la réalisation d’objectifs stratégiques, notamment l’objectif de la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine de normaliser les qualifications professionnelles et la mobilité des compétences, en renforçant la reconnaissance des qualifications des professionnels de la finance en Afrique par-delà les frontières.

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

Contact médias :
Natalie Naudé
Département de la communication et des relations extérieures
​media@afdb.org

À propos du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement :
Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement est la principale institution du financement du développement en Afrique. Il comprend trois entités distinctes : la Banque africaine de développement (BAD), le Fonds africain de développement (FAD) et le Fonds spécial du Nigeria (FSN). Représentée dans 41 pays africains, avec un bureau extérieur au Japon, la Banque contribue au développement économique et au progrès social de ses 54 Etats membres régionaux. Pour plus d’informations : www.AfDB.org

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Africa No Filter announces inaugural Council as it expands its reach on the continent and beyond

Source: APO

It takes a village to shift a narrative — and Africa No Filter’s (https://AfricaNoFilter.org) village just got stronger.

Africa No Filter (ANF) today announced the formation of its inaugural Council: a collective of eight highly respected leaders whose expertise spans media, finance, philanthropy, law, advocacy and research. Their appointment signals a new chapter for the organisation, which is now an independent, African-led and registered entity in Mauritius after five years as a U.S-based project.

The ANF Council brings together people who have not only excelled in their fields, but who Moky Makura, Executive Director of Africa No Filter, deeply admires for the way they show up for the continent.

“Narratives shape everything, from policy and reputation to investment and opportunity,” Makura says. “As Africa No Filter steps into this new era of independence, this Council strengthens our governance and sharpens our strategic direction. These are people who understand the stakes, believe in Africa’s potential and are committed to ensuring that Africa tells its own, more truthful story.”

Over the last five years, Africa No Filter has committed more than US$7.5 million to the African creative and media ecosystem, supporting storytellers, researchers and platforms that challenge reductive, outdated portrayals of the continent.

Its work has attracted some of the world’s most influential funders, including the Gates Foundation and the Mastercard Foundation, alongside its founding funders – the Ford Foundation, Luminate and the Hilton Foundation, Hewlett Foundation, and Mellon Foundation – who continue to support ANF’s mission to shift global narratives about Africa.

At this pivotal moment, the Council will serve as a strategic sounding board and leadership body, strengthening governance, accelerating impact and expanding the organisation’s reach on the continent and beyond.

The members of the 2025 Africa No Filter Council are:

Richard Addy — a multi-award-winning strategist and co-founder of international audience strategy consultancy AKAS, recognised as one of the world’s Top 100 media experts.

Nousrath Bhugeloo — a seasoned senior executive in financial services and Executive Director and Chairperson at Nexus Global Financial Services.

Yacine Djibo — Founder and Executive Director of Speak Up Africa, whose advocacy has reshaped policy conversations on health, sanitation and sustainable development across the continent.

Ferdinand Mokete — Director at KPMG South Africa and MBA lecturer at Wits Business School, representing the next frontier of African economic leadership and governance excellence.

Françoise Moudouthe — CEO of the African Women’s Development Fund and founder of Eyala, an online platform amplifying African feminist voices.

Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard — Franco-Gabonese entrepreneur and founder of APO Group, an award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, listed among the Top 100 Most Influential Africans in 2023 and 2024.

Anshi Saminaden — Senior Legal Counsel at the African Leadership University, renowned for her leadership in institutional governance, negotiation and investment management.

Natasha Kofoworola Quist — Founder of Quest Advisory Africa, with over 25 years’ experience spanning humanitarian work, conservation, philanthropy and the private sector.

Each member brings a distinct lens, yet all share a common conviction: that Africa’s story must be told more fully, more fairly and by Africans themselves.

Yacine Djibo believes the future narrative must finally reflect reality — “a continent of creativity, innovation and possibility, where African voices define the story and inspire confidence, investment and ownership from within and beyond the continent.”

For Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, countering stereotypes is not only ethical, but strategic. By promoting authentic stories of progress, he says, “the media can unlock investment and help transform Africa’s economic prospects.”

Anshi Saminaden echoes this, pointing to the power of authentic storytelling to “direct investment and support to where they are most needed, unlocking Africa’s human power and transformation.”

Nousrath Bhugeloo noted that strong governance is part of how Africa tells its story, and that ANF’s commitment to building resilient, African-led institutions is as important as the narratives it amplifies.

With strengthened governance, expanded continental expertise and a growing global footprint, Africa No Filter’s transition to an independent entity marks far more than an organisational change. It is a statement of intent: a new era in which Africa commands its own narrative, on its own terms.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa No Filter.

Enquiries: Lerato@africanofilter.org

About Africa No Filter:
Africa No Filter is an advocacy organisation dedicated to shifting stereotypical narratives about Africa by supporting storytelling that reflects a dynamic continent of progress, innovation and opportunity. It exists to counter narratives that reduce Africa to poor leadership, poverty, corruption, disease and conflict, and to amplify more accurate, balanced and empowering stories. For more information, visit www.AfricaNoFilter.org.

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Report reveals ongoing challenges for people living with HIV in SA

Source: Government of South Africa

Report reveals ongoing challenges for people living with HIV in SA

The HIV Stigma Index 2.0 report launched on Wednesday reveals that, despite progress since the 2014 study, significant efforts are still needed to reduce stigma, improve healthcare experiences, and support the mental well-being of people living with HIV (PLHIV).

Today, the PLHIV sector, led by the National Association of People Living with HIV and AIDS (NAPWA), unveiled the HIV Stigma Index 2.0 report. 

This comprehensive study measures and documents the stigma, discrimination, and rights violations faced by PLHIV in South Africa.

Conducted with the technical support of the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), and international partners, the report highlights the persistent challenges encountered by PLHIV, particularly among key populations and young PLHIV. 

The National Chairperson of PLHIV and Project Director for the Stigma Index 2.0, Mluleki Zazini, believes the study marks a significant milestone in ensuring that the voices and lived experiences of PLHIV are at the forefront of research, advocacy, and policy development.

Zazini described the study as groundbreaking on a global scale, as it includes adolescents aged 15 to 17, acknowledging the country’s high HIV prevalence among young people and the urgent need to address stigma in this demographic.

The approximately 5 000 participants were primarily young adults, with almost 70% aged between 25 and 49.

Most participants were assigned female at birth, and a similar proportion identified as women, while smaller groups identified as men or as transgender.

The study also found that more than a quarter of participants fell into at least one key population group, including sex workers, people who use drugs, men who have sex with men, and transgender individuals.

Key findings

A new study has revealed mixed experiences among PLHIV in South Africa, highlighting both progress and persistent barriers linked to stigma and disclosure.

More than half of the participants disclosed their HIV status voluntarily, mostly to family, friends and partners.

However, disclosure in workplaces and schools remained very low. 

The study also found that a small portion also reported that their status had been shared without their consent, mainly by family members. 

While many experienced supportive reactions from those close to them, fewer reported positive experiences when disclosing to acquaintances.

The study found that experiences of external stigma have declined compared to previous years, though discriminatory remarks and verbal harassment still occur. 

Internalised stigma continues to affect participants’ confidence, relationships and sense of self-worth, with young people and key populations – such as sex workers and people who use drugs – most affected.

The study also found that the stigma in healthcare settings persists, with some participants reporting judgmental behaviour from healthcare workers. 

Fears of stigma contributed to delayed treatment initiation for almost a third of respondents, and some admitted to interrupting their treatment. 

Key populations and persons with disabilities faced multiple layers of discrimination, including exclusion from family activities and fear of seeking care.

Tuberculosis (TB)-related stigma remains another challenge, with many reporting being gossiped about after a TB diagnosis. 

Participation in HIV support groups was relatively low overall, though higher among transgender participants.

Zazini said that stigma and discrimination continue to undermine South Africa’s response to HIV, discouraging people from testing, seeking treatment or disclosing their status. 

“These barriers not only affect individual health outcomes but also contribute to the ongoing spread of HIV,” he warned.

Recommendation

The study outlines several recommendations to tackle the stigma and discrimination still faced by PLHIV in South Africa. 

Key proposals include strengthening community-based referral programmes that support voluntary testing, informed consent and safe disclosure, alongside expanding counselling and peer-support groups.

It also calls for stronger anti-stigma campaigns and gender-sensitive policies in communities and health facilities, backed by multisectoral collaboration across government, civil society and PLHIV networks. 

To reduce internalised stigma, the report urges the rollout of mental health and peer-led support initiatives.

In healthcare settings, the study recommends training health workers on patients’ rights and the need for non-discriminatory, gender-responsive care, as well as establishing confidential systems to report stigma and rights violations.

Targeted interventions for key populations – such as sex workers, people who use drugs and transgender individuals – are also emphasised.

Women-led PLHIV networks are encouraged to take the lead in educating women and adolescents on their rights and access to care. 

The study notes that these efforts are essential to improving health outcomes and building a society free of HIV-related stigma.

Click here on the link below to access the presentation and other documents. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile

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Government raises R11.795 billion to fund infrastructure projects

Source: Government of South Africa

Government raises R11.795 billion to fund infrastructure projects

The National Treasury has successfully raised R11.795 billion under South Africa’s first Infrastructure and Development Finance Bond.

According to the National Treasury, the auction attracted strong market interest, with bids exceeding R26 billion and achieving a 2.2-times subscription rate.

The proceeds from the Infrastructure and Development Finance Bond will be used exclusively to finance projects under the Budget Facility for Infrastructure (BFI) programme.

The total issuance amount was split across 10 and 15-year maturities as follows: 
•    RI2036: R6.996 billion was issued at an interest rate of 8.575%.
•    RI2041: R4.799 billion was issued at an interest rate of 9.13%.

This issuance forms part of a suite of reforms, first outlined in the 2024 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement, to boost investment in the infrastructure required to drive higher economic growth and improve service delivery. 

The bond will support projects under the Government’s Budget Facility for Infrastructure (BFI). 

READ | Government issues infrastructure bonds to boost investment

The BFI is a mechanism within the budget process that supports the execution of national priority infrastructure projects by using robust project screening methodology to assess eligibility for public funding. 

“During 2025, the government reconfigured the BFI to run four bid windows annually instead of just one. 
“The four bid windows enable public institutions, including national departments, provinces, municipalities and state-owned enterprises, to request funding for part of the cost of a project, as a basis to attract additional private funding,” National Treasury said on Tuesday.

This allows government to improve the quality and scale of the public infrastructure pipeline and embed private sector participation in infrastructure delivery.

The inaugural auction size was allocated in line with current market rates to optimise the cost of government borrowing. 

“As part of the funding strategy, the National Treasury plans to tap these bonds in future auctions to finance further BFI-aligned infrastructure projects. These reforms include the development of long-term financing instruments to crowd in investment for priority public infrastructure,” National Treasury said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle

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Water Ministers reaffirm commitment to protect Orange–Senqu River Basin

Source: Government of South Africa

Water Ministers reaffirm commitment to protect Orange–Senqu River Basin

The Ministers responsible for water from the four Orange–Senqu River Basin states have reiterated their shared commitment to safeguarding the river basin as a strategic resource underpinning regional water security, climate resilience, economic development, and ecological sustainability.

The Ministers from the Republic of Botswana, the Kingdom of Lesotho, the Republic of Namibia, and the Republic of South Africa recently met in Gaborone, Botswana, for the 8th Ordinary Meeting of the Orange–Senqu River Commission (ORASECOM) Forum of the Parties.

According to a communiqué, the meeting reviewed progress on the cooperative management, development, and protection of the basin’s shared water resources and set strategic priorities to guide ORASECOM’s ongoing programmes.

The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to cooperative governance of the basin and welcomed significant progress achieved since the 2023 Forum held in the City of Tshwane, South Africa.
Among the key achievements noted are:

•    Advancement of the Revised ORASECOM Agreement: Ministers noted progress towards the ratification of the revised 2018 Agreement, which aims to modernise and strengthen the Commission’s legal and institutional framework to better respond to contemporary water challenges.
•    Prioritising sanitation and water quality: The Ministers acknowledged the integration of sanitation into the next Integrated Water Resources Management and Investment Plan (2026–2035). This will ensure coordinated action on pollution, water quality monitoring, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) services, and cross-sectoral coordination. 
•    Improving flow conditions in the Lower Orange–Senqu: The Ministers noted progress toward the Noordoewer/Vioolsdrift Dam Bridging Feasibility Study. With ORASECOM designated as the Project Executing Agency, procurement of the technical consultant is now underway.

Progress made
The Forum commended the Commission for delivering significant basin-wide initiatives, including:
Lesotho–Botswana Water Transfer Project (L-BWTP)
This flagship, multi-country water security project has completed both its pre-feasibility phase and the Dam Technical Feasibility Study. Outstanding work, including the technical study of the Water Conveyance System (WCS), Environmental and Social Assessments for both dam and conveyance infrastructure, and financial, legal, and institutional assessments, is expected to conclude by mid-2027.

Successful hosting of the 2025 Investment Conference
Held in Maseru in May 2025, the conference mobilised high-level political commitment and enhanced engagement with development partners, financiers, and private-sector actors focused on climate-resilient water investments.

Completion of the UNDP-GEF SAP Implementation Project
Field projects in all four countries delivered tangible community and ecosystem benefits—groundwater desalination in Botswana, improved water-quality monitoring in Lesotho, and the development of an estuarine management plan in South Africa.

Initiation of the ORASECOM Water Fund
The Ministers welcomed the progress toward establishing a dedicated long-term financing mechanism to support basin restoration, water security, and climate resilience. A Project Identification Form has been submitted to the Global Environment Facility to support further development.

Advancing gender leadership in water diplomacy
The Forum commended ongoing efforts to strengthen the Women in Water Diplomacy Network in the basin, acknowledging recent appointments of basin representatives to the Network’s Global Council.

The Ministers also reviewed the Commission’s financial status and expressed appreciation for continued support from international partners, including the African Development Bank and the Government of Germany. They encouraged sustained resource mobilisation and broader partnerships to secure long-term programme delivery.

Cooperation
The forum further welcomed steady progress within existing cooperation frameworks, including the Permanent Water Commission (Namibia–South Africa), the Lesotho Highlands Water Commission, and the Botswana–South Africa Joint Permanent Technical Commission, highlighting the value of technical collaboration and shared management across the river basin.

The 9th Ordinary Meeting of the Forum of the Parties will be held in 2026 by the Kingdom of Lesotho. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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African Development Bank, Pan African Federation of Accountants launch $5.2 million initiative to professionalise African accountancy sector

Source: APO

The African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) and the Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA) have launched a $5.2 million institutional support project to address a severe shortage of qualified public sector accountants and auditors across Africa.

The launch event was held on 26 November at The South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA) House in Johannesburg.

The Strengthening the Pan African Federation of Accountants and PFM Resilience in Africa project aims to harmonise professional accounting standards, tools, and practices across African countries, build the institutional and professional capacities of professional accountancy organisations, improve financial reporting quality in transition states, and professionalise public sector accountants and auditors. The $5.2 million in funding will come in the form of a grant provided by the Bank Group’s Transition Support Facility.

“Strong, transparent public financial management is essential for resilient economies and improved services for citizens,” said Kennedy Mbekeani, Director General of the Bank’s Southern Africa Regional Development and Business Delivery Office, following the launch. “Through this partnership with PAFA, we are investing in the professionals and institutions that protect public resources.”

The Bank Group chose PAFA as project implementing partner because of the umbrella group’s unrivalled pan-continental reach. It has 57 professional accountancy organisations as members across 47 countries. The partnership will also harness the African Professionalisation Initiative, a collaboration between PAFA, the African Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (AFROSAI) and the African Association of Accountants General.

Alta Prinsloo, PAFA’s CEO, said: “This partnership with the African Development Bank is a decisive step towards strengthening Africa’s public financial management landscape. By investing in the professionalisation of accountants and auditors, we are building the skills, institutions, and standards that enable transparency, trust, and effective governance. PAFA is proud to lead this work with our partners across the continent.”

Additionally, the project to address this pressing challenge will implement learning programmes, enhance the institutional capacity of Professional Accountancy Organisations, and boost women’s participation in the profession through targeted mentorship and training.

The initiative is also expected to advance strategic goals, including an African Continental Free Trade Area target of standardising professional qualifications and skills mobility, enhancing recognition of the credentials of Africa’s financial professionals across borders.

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

For media enquiries, contact:
Natalie Naudé
Communication and External Relations Department
​media@afdb.org

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

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La Société islamique d’assurance des investissements et des crédits à l’exportation (SIACE) soutient un financement de 132,5 millions d’euros pour renforcer l’industrie sidérurgique ouzbèke

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Société islamique d’assurance des investissements et des crédits à l’exportation (SIACE) (https://ICIEC.IsDB.org), assureur multilatéral conforme à la charia et membre du Groupe de la Banque islamique de développement (BID), a le plaisir d’annoncer son soutien à un financement historique de 132,5 millions d’euros arrangé par Standard Chartered en faveur de la société par actions O’zbekiston Metallurgiya Kombinat (Uzmetkombinat), le plus grand producteur d’acier d’Ouzbékistan.

Ce financement, garanti par la garantie souveraine de la SIACE, permettra l’achèvement du nouveau complexe de moulage et de laminage d’Uzmetkombinat à Bekabad, dans le sud de l’Ouzbékistan. Une fois achevée, l’usine produira des bobines laminées à chaud (BCR) — un produit clé qui était auparavant importé — renforçant ainsi l’autosuffisance du pays en matière de production d’acier et améliorant sa compétitivité dans les secteurs de la construction et de la fabrication.

L’introduction de bobines laminées à chaud produites localement marque une étape majeure pour l’Ouzbékistan, en assurant une meilleure efficacité de la chaîne d’approvisionnement et une réduction des coûts pour les industries locales, notamment la fabrication de tubes et la construction. Cet investissement aura également un impact social et économique significatif à Bekabad, une ville de
100 000 habitants où Uzmetkombinat emploie déjà plus de 8 000 personnes et soutient des milliers d’emplois indirects.

Ce projet représente la deuxième transaction importante entre la SIACE et Standard Chartered en Ouzbékistan en 2025. Auparavant, la SIACE avait soutenu un financement islamique de 160,4 millions d’euros en faveur de la banque commerciale par actions Agrobank, favorisant l’accès au financement pour les petites et moyennes entreprises (PME) du pays.

À propos de cette transaction, Dr Khalid Khalafalla, DG de la SIACE, a déclaré :« Cette transaction historique illustre le mandat de la SIACE, qui vise à réduire les risques liés au commerce et à l’investissement tout en stimulant une croissance économique durable dans nos États membres. En soutenant le plus grand producteur d’acier d’Ouzbékistan, nous favorisons non seulement le développement de capacités industrielles essentielles, mais contribuons également à renforcer l’autonomie, la création d’emplois et la résilience économique à long terme. Nous sommes fiers d’approfondir notre collaboration avec Standard Chartered grâce à cette deuxième transaction majeure en Ouzbékistan, qui témoigne de la solidité de notre partenariat et notre engagement commun à promouvoir des projets de développement à fort impact. »

Desislava Radeva, Directrice exécutive du développement et du financement des agences chez Standard Chartered, a déclaré : « Nous sommes fiers de nous associer une fois de plus à la SIACE pour soutenir un client précieux, Uzmetkombinat. La production d’acier est un secteur stratégique clé pour l’Ouzbékistan, et la production locale d’aciers laminés à chaud représente un formidable bond en avant pour le pays. Cet accord illustre l’expertise de Standard Chartered à stimuler la prospérité sur certains des marchés les plus dynamiques du monde. ».

Distribué par APO Group pour Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC).

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À propos de la SIACE : 
Membre du Groupe de la Banque islamique de développement (BID), la SIACE a démarré ses activités en 1994 avec pour mission de renforcer les relations économiques entre les États membres de l’OCI et de promouvoir le commerce ainsi que les investissements intra-OCI, en fournissant des outils d’atténuation des risques et des solutions financières conformes à la Charia. La Société est le seul assureur multilatéral islamique au monde et joue un rôle de premier plan en proposant une gamme complète de solutions aux entreprises et aux parties prenantes de ses 51 États membres. Pour la 18ᵉ année consécutive, la SIACE a conservé sa note de solidité financière « Aa3 » attribuée par Moody’s, la classant parmi les leaders mondiaux du secteur de l’assurance-crédit et de l’assurance des risques politiques. Par ailleurs, S&P a confirmé la note de crédit et de solidité financière à long terme « AA- » de la SIACE pour la deuxième année consécutive, avec des perspectives stables. La résilience de la SIACE repose sur une souscription rigoureuse, un solide réseau mondial de réassurance et des politiques prudentes de gestion des risques. À ce jour, la SIACE a assuré plus de 121 milliards USD de transactions commerciales et d’investissements. Ses activités couvrent plusieurs secteurs stratégiques, notamment l’énergie, l’industrie manufacturière, les infrastructures, la santé et l’agriculture.

Pour plus d’informations, veuillez visiter : https://ICIEC.IsDB.org     

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Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento e Federação Pan-Africana de Contabilistas lançam iniciativa de 5,2 milhões de dólares para profissionalizar o setor de contabilidade

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (www.AfDB.org) e a Federação Pan-Africana de Contabilistas (PAFA) lançaram um projeto de apoio institucional no valor de 5,2 milhões de dólares para combater a grave escassez de contabilistas e auditores qualificados no setor público em toda a África.

O evento de lançamento foi realizado a 26 de novembro na sede do Instituto Sul-Africano de Contabilistas Profissionais (SAIPA) em Joanesburgo.

O projeto Fortalecimento da Federação Pan-Africana de Contabilistas e Resiliência da Gestão Financeira Pública em África visa harmonizar as normas, ferramentas e práticas profissionais de contabilidade em todos os países africanos, desenvolver as capacidades institucionais e profissionais das organizações de contabilidade profissional, melhorar a qualidade dos relatórios financeiros nos Estados em transição e profissionalizar os contabilistas e auditores do setor público. O financiamento de 5,2 milhões de dólares será concedido sob a forma de uma subvenção do Mecanismo de Apoio à Transiçãodo Grupo Banco.

“Uma gestão financeira pública forte e transparente é essencial para economias resilientes e melhores serviços para os cidadãos”, afirmou Kennedy Mbekeani, Diretor-Geral do Gabinete de Desenvolvimento Regional e Prestação de Serviços da África Austral do Banco, após o lançamento. “Através desta parceria com a PAFA, estamos a investir nos profissionais e nas instituições que protegem os recursos públicos”, acrescentou.

O Grupo Banco escolheu a PAFA como parceiro de implementação do projeto devido ao alcance pan-continental incomparável do grupo. Tem 57 organizações profissionais de contabilidade como membros em 47 países. A parceria também irá aproveitar a Iniciativa Africana de Profissionalização, uma colaboração entre a PAFA, a Organização Africana das Instituições Superiores de Auditoria (AFROSAI) e a Associação Africana de Contabilistas Gerais.

Alta Prinsloo, CEO da PAFA, afirmou: “Esta parceria com o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento é um passo decisivo para o reforço do panorama da gestão das finanças públicas em África. Ao investir na profissionalização de contabilistas e auditores, estamos a desenvolver as competências, as instituições e as normas que permitem a transparência, a confiança e a governação eficaz. A PAFA orgulha-se de liderar este trabalho com os nossos parceiros em todo o continente”.

Além disso, o projeto para enfrentar este desafio urgente irá implementar programas de aprendizagem, reforçar a capacidade institucional das Organizações Profissionais de Contabilidade e impulsionar a participação das mulheres na profissão através de mentoria e formação específicas.

Espera-se também que a iniciativa promova objetivos estratégicos, incluindo a meta da Zona de Comércio Livre Continental Africana (AfCFTA) de padronizar as qualificações profissionais e a mobilidade de competências, aumentando o reconhecimento das credenciais dos profissionais financeiros africanos além-fronteiras.

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

Contacto para os media:
Natalie Naudé
Departamento de Comunicação e Relações Externas
media@afdb.org

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

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Qantas Airways direct flight to SA to boost tourism

Source: Government of South Africa

Qantas Airways direct flight to SA to boost tourism

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille on Monday welcomed the launch of Qantas Airways’ new direct flight between Johannesburg and Perth adding that it will boost tourism and trade.

De Lille said the move will also people-to-people relations between South Africa and Australia.

The launch took place in Johannesburg and was attended by the Australian Minister for Trade and Tourism, Don Farrell, Australian High Commissioner, Tegan Brink and senior executives from Qantas, South African Tourism, the Gauteng Tourism Authority and the Tourism Business Council of South Africa.

De Lille said the new direct route represents more than just an addition to South Africa’s air network. 

“This is not just a new connection on a route map; it is a bridge between two nations, two peoples, and two tourism markets with enormous potential. It unlocks deeper collaboration, increased two-way travel, and stronger people-to-people ties,” she said.

The launch follows shortly after South Africa’s successful hosting of the G20 Summit in November, a milestone which showcased the country’s capability as a world-class Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) destination. 

“The world recently saw a confident, warm, and capable South Africa, able to host global leaders with distinction. This momentum is carried forward through initiatives like expanded air connectivity.

She further emphasised that increased air connectivity remains a central pillar of the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan 2025-2029, particularly under its ease-of-access focus area, which addresses air routes, visa systems, and the removal of travel barriers.
The latest aviation data reflects strong recovery and expansion:
• International seat capacity now stands at 8.5 million, a 9.1% increase over 2024.
• 4.6 million seats are allocated to long-haul routes and 3.9 million to short-haul routes.
• Double-digit seat growth has been recorded since June 2025.

“This is airlift expansion at scale, backed by policy, planning and strong partnerships,” the Minister said.
Strengthening connectivity 
The Johannesburg–Perth service significantly strengthens South Africa’s connectivity with the Oceania region and is expected to play a critical role in growing inbound business events and leisure tourism.

It also provides improved access ahead of major industry events such as Meetings Africa 2026 and Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026.
The route will also benefit South Africans travelling to Australia for business, education and family purposes, reinforcing two-way mobility and economic participation. 

Tourism performance from Australia continues to show strong growth:
• Arrivals from Australia in 2025 are nearly 30% higher than in 2024.
• Arrivals are now 10% above pre-COVID levels, signalling not only recovery but sustained expansion.

The new direct flight is also expected to play a strategic role as South Africa prepares to host major international sporting events, including the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2027, further strengthening sporting and cultural ties between the two nations.

“Sport has always been a powerful bridge between South Africa and Australia. This service strengthens that bond even further,” the Minister said.

Minister De Lille further highlighted that South African Tourism will work closely with Qantas and industry partners to stimulate demand and ensure the long-term success of the route, while also positioning South Africa as an accessible gateway for travellers from across the wider Oceania region, including New Zealand.

“South Africa is rising. Tourism is thriving. And the world is taking notice. This new route brings new opportunities, new partnerships, and new travellers. South Africa awaits, and we cannot wait to welcome visitors who will arrive because of this flight,” the Minister concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Edwin

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