Category: Africa

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Government of Congo and African Development Bank Group adopt plan to improve portfolio performance

Source: APO

Following a joint review, the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) have approved a plan to improve the performance of the institution’s project portfolio in the Central African country. The Country Portfolio Performance Review, as the process is formally known, was conducted from 17 – 20 November in the capital, Kinshasa.

The agreed plan emphasises greater ownership of projects by sector ministries, concerted effort to support ongoing operations to maturity, and more coordinated investment programming. It also includes the digitisation of implementation and reporting processes, capacity building for project teams, and more proactive collaboration to reduce lead times. Additionally, it introduces a system for assessing the performance of project management units, together with incentives to speed up project implementation and optimize impact.

During the three-day review, the government’s technical teams – supervised by the Ministry of Finance’s Project and Programme Monitoring Unit and the Bank Group’s Project Management Units – worked in thematic workshops to examine each operation in detail, assess progress, identify challenges, and propose appropriate corrective measures and concrete actions for effective implementation.

“It is essential that projects financed by the African Development Bank perform well if we are to meet the legitimate expectations of our people,” said DRC Deputy Finance Minister Yamba Kazadi Gracia, at the review. “Every dollar unused represents a school not built, a road not rehabilitated, a health centre not equipped. We have a moral and political duty to transform this funding into tangible results for the development of our country.”

The Bank Group’s Deputy Director General for Central Africa, Mohamed Chérif, praised the quality of the dialogue with the Congolese authorities and reaffirmed the pan-African institution’s commitment to supporting the country in achieving its national priorities.

He said: “This meeting testifies to our shared commitment to the national vision and reaffirms our support for the major national priorities … This is why we need to work more closely together to improve the effectiveness of our projects and programmes and enhance their impact on the development and well-being of the Congolese people.”

Country portfolio reviews serve as milestone moments in the ongoing strategic and operational dialogue between the Bank Group and the countries in which it is financing operations.

The African Development Bank Group’s active portfolio in the Democratic Republic of Congo totals more than $1.6 billion, covering the agriculture, transport, energy, drinking water and sanitation, governance, human capital, and digital sectors. The Bank’s portfolio in the DRC is one of the Group’s largest in Central Africa in terms of commitments.

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

Media contact: 
Frédérique Pascale Essama Messanga
Communication and External Relations Department
African Development Bank 
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 (ADB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). Represented in 41 African countries, with a field office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org.

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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission holds training and capacity-building workshop for border officials and key stakeholders at the Akanu-Noepe Joint Border Post (JBP) between Ghana and Togo

Source: APO


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The ECOWAS Commission, with the support of TradeMark Africa, organized a two-day training and capacity-building workshop for border officials at the Akanu-Noepe Joint Border Post between the Republic of Ghana and the Republic of Togo from 20-21 November 2025 in Lomé, Togo.

The training sought to strengthen the operational capacity of border officials and enhance coordination among key agencies by improving their understanding of the JBP concept, commitments under the Bilateral Agreement signed between the two Member States, harmonized procedures, and joint operational mechanisms to promote efficient border management, trade facilitation, and regional integration.

Participants shared experiences and provided critical feedback to the ECOWAS Commission as part of measures to ensure the efficient and sustainable operation of the Akanu–Noepe Joint Border Post. Among the key recommendations from the training workshop were the development of a sustainable funding mechanism for JBP operations, regular engagement with relevant national authorities to address challenges at the JBP, and ECOWAS Commission support in the immediate retooling and equipping of the Akanu-Noepe JBP.

In all, forty-five (45) participants took part in the training session, which focused on topics including the JBP concept, the legal and institutional framework for the operations of the Joint Border Post, the role and mandate of the Joint Border Management Committee, digital tools for cross-border trade facilitation and social inclusion, and environmental and sustainable border management.

The Akanu–Noepe Joint Border Post plays a crucial role in the facilitation of trade and transport along the Abidjan–Lagos Corridor and serves as a critical node for intermodal logistics value chains. It also provides an important link in transport connectivity to the Sahelian hinterlands of the region.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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Regulator takes steps to transform SA’s energy sector

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, November 28, 2025

The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has taken major steps towards transforming the country’s electricity sector.

During a media briefing on Thursday, the regulator announced that it has approved several key decisions that will pave the way for a competitive electricity market.

“The decisions acknowledge the significant changes expected within the electricity sector and the critical role of the Energy Regulator, heralded by the amended Electricity Regulation Act of 2006, which includes the establishment of a competitive electricity market over the next five years,” the regulator said.

These decisions include:
•    Granting a Market Operator licence to the National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA), which is essential to formally establish the entity responsible for operating the future competitive electricity market.
•    Approving Grid Capacity Allocation Rules that will determine how access to the national grid is allocated to different electricity producers.
•    The establishment of the Electricity Market Advisory Forum (EMAF) which will play a vital role in advising the Energy Regulator on Market Rules and the Market Code for the development of a competitive electricity market. 

The EMAF will also support regulatory oversight of market operations, ensuring readiness and inclusivity among stakeholders as the electricity market evolves.

READ | NERSA approves setting up of advisory forum

According to regulator, the EMAF is a proactive move to involve stakeholders in supporting NERSA in establishing a robust and inclusive regulatory environment to oversee the nascent electricity market.

This includes licensing the Market Operator as the NTCSA’s licensed activity and approving the Market Rules and Market Code.

On 12 November 2025, the Energy Regulator approved the Grid Capacity Allocation Rules to ensure fair, transparent and non-discriminatory access to limited grid capacity.

Key objectives of these rules are as follows:
•    Ensure fair and transparent grid access.
•    Improve planning certainty for investors and developers.
•    Prevent inactive projects from reserving capacity.
•    Promote optimal use of existing infrastructure and guide future development.

The benefits will include accelerated access for bankable projects, reduced backlogs, improved queue management and enhanced investor confidence. –SAnews.gov.za

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Gauteng warns of fake EPWP advert

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, November 28, 2025

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has noted with concern the circulation of fraudulent Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) opportunities on social media.

The advert, which falsely references a “Roads Maintenance Tender (3 years): Contractor – Khulakwande Construction”, was not issued by the department.

“The public is urged to exercise caution and avoid falling victim to this scam. The department firmly distances itself from this fake recruitment drive and reiterates that no such EPWP opportunities have been advertised by the department,” it said in a statement on Thursday.

The fraudulent post falsely claims that “general work is targeted at students and interns, but anyone in the community may sign up,” and promises a daily payment rate of R140. 

“It further misleads applicants by stating that placements will be made on roads closest to them and that personal information will be kept private.”

It stressed that it is unaware of the origins of the misleading advert and urged the public not to engage with or share it.

For legitimate training and employment opportunities within the Gauteng Provincial Government, members of the public are encouraged to visit the official GPG Jobs Portal: https://jobs.gauteng.gov.za/.

Unofficial or obscure websites are often used to deceive and exploit unsuspecting job seekers.

When in doubt, applicants should always verify the authenticity of any recruitment information by contacting the Department’s Directorate: Human Resources (Recruitment) at (011) 355 7521 or the GDRT switchboard at (011) 355 7000 during office hours. –SAnews.gov.za
 

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Matriculants urged to celebrate safely after exams

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, November 28, 2025

With the matric exam session now complete, many learners will be attending formal matric rage events and smaller end-of-exams or “pens down” parties over the next week.

The MEC for the Western Cape Education Department, David Maynier, has urged matriculants to celebrate safely.

This year’s National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations concluded on Thursday, 27 November 2025.

“Understandably, our matrics would like to celebrate the end of their school career, but we urge them to do so responsibly. 

“A party can have a lifelong impact if something goes wrong. Put your future first and celebrate safely,” Maynier said. 

The National Department of Basic Education (DBE) has also issued a strong reminder that this is not the time for unsafe or premature celebrations. 

The DBE warns that unregulated “pens down“ parties can expose learners to alcohol abuse, violence, exploitation, and significant personal harm.

“The department urges candidates to prioritise rest, discipline, and final revision; to report any unsafe gatherings to trusted adults or authorities; and to honour their schooling journey by returning all textbooks and learning materials.” 

They encourage learners to show responsible citizenship by donating uniforms or stationery when possible, thereby strengthening the culture of care within school communities.

“These actions reflect the civic responsibility and maturity expected of the Class of 2025.”

The Western Cape Department of Education is encouraging all matrics attending these events to:

  • Familiarise yourself with the event’s safety measures and the local emergency phone numbers.  
  • Keep a close eye on your valuables at all times.  
  • Never leave your beverages unattended; always monitor them.  
  • If you notice anything suspicious, report it immediately to the South African Police Service or the event organisers.  
  • Avoid drinking and driving.  
  • Establish a buddy system for added safety, and maintain regular contact with your parents.  
  • Parents should ensure that their children understand the risks associated with any event or party. They should also arrange to stay in contact with their children and know what to do in case of an emergency. – SAnews.gov.za
     

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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) permanent observer mission to the United Nations concludes expert-level election officers retreat and high-level permanent representatives retreat

Source: APO


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The ECOWAS Permanent Observer Mission to the United Nations successfully concluded two end-of-year retreats: Expert-Level Retreat of Election Officers from the 14th to 16th of November, 2025 and High-Level Retreat of Permanent Representatives from 21st to 22nd of November, 2025 in New York, United States of America. The retreats are aimed at enhancing regional coordination and positioning the Community for strengthened engagement and greater visibility within the multilateral agenda in 2026.

The Expert-Level Retreat of Election Officers Mission convened expert ECOWAS Election Officers, presided over by H.E. Amb. Kinza Jawara-Njai, ECOWAS Permanent Observer to the United Nations. The meeting reviewed the 2025 election cycle, implementation of the Revised ECOWAS Guidelines on Candidatures, and regional preparations of candidacies for upcoming positions in organs and agencies of the United Nations for which elections will hold in 2026.

A key outcome of the retreat was the adoption of the West Africa Chart on Candidacies for elections holding in 2026. The meeting also resulted in the consolidation of regional agreement on outstanding candidatures requiring further alignment and strengthened expert-level coordination and information-sharing.

The High-Level Retreat of Permanent Representatives was presided over by H.E. Amb. Michael Imran Kanu, Permanent Representative of Sierra Leone to the United Nations and Chair of the ECOWAS Group, reviewed the Group’s engagements in 2025 and outlined strategic priorities for 2026 aimed at advancing the region’s interests across multilateral fora. The retreat also received briefings from senior UN leadership on key United Nations initiatives of particular relevance to West Africa.

The retreat concluded with the adoption of a Strategic Coordination Roadmap for 2026 and agreement on priority thematic and diplomatic engagements to reinforce ECOWAS visibility, coherence, and unity at the United Nations. It also strengthened coordination to ensure continuity of ECOWAS priorities in the UN Security Council, as Liberia takes over from Sierra Leone, ensuring a seamless relay of West Africa’s positions on peace and security matters.

Together, the two retreats strengthened ECOWAS’ expert coordination and high-level diplomacy, positioning the region for more unified engagement within the United Nations system in 2026.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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Eritrea: Cultural Week at Warsai–Yikealo School in Sawa

Source: APO


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The Cultural Week organized by the National Union of Eritrean Youth and Students of Sawa and Higher Education Institutions, in collaboration with Warsai–Yikealo School, was enthusiastically concluded at a closing event held on 23 November. The program, which was conducted for over two months, featured cultural, educational, and artistic activities including general knowledge competitions, drama, music, fashion shows, poems, and more.

Ms. Mensura Ismail, head of the National Union of Eritrean Youth and Students branch of Sawa and Higher Education Institutions, said that the event contributed to enabling students to identify their talents, competitive spirit, and creativity.

Mr. Saleh Ahmedin, chairman of the National Union of Eritrean Youth and Students, highlighted the importance of creating forums where students can showcase their talents and capacities, exchange experiences, and enhance their competitiveness.

At the event, awards were handed out to winners of various competitions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Eritrea: Warm Reception for National Cycling Team

Source: APO


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The Eritrean National Cycling Team, which achieved remarkable victories in both men’s and women’s categories at the African Continental Cycling Championship 2025 in Kenya, was warmly welcomed upon its arrival at Asmara International Airport.

The welcoming ceremony was attended by Ambassador Zemede Tekle, Commissioner of Culture and Sports, along with officials from the Eritrean Cycling Federation and enthusiastic sports fans.

Ambassador Zemede said that the Eritrean National Cycling Team delivered victory according to expectations and plans, making the country and its people very proud. He also expressed gratitude to the National Team, on behalf of the public and Government, for the tenacity and courage they demonstrated.

At the African Cycling Championship 2025, held from 20 to 23 November, the National Team clinched a total of 10 medals in both genders, including 3 gold, 5 silver, and 2 bronze.

At the final road race conducted on 23 November, Olympian Merhawi Kudus in the elite group, Awet Aman in the under-23 category, and Natan Medhanie in the junior category shined in their respective categories by winning gold medals.

Likewise, Nahom Efrem won a silver medal in the junior category, while Mewael Germay secured a silver medal in the under-23 category.

In the women’s category, Adiam Tesfu won a silver medal in the junior time trial, Monaliza Araya won a bronze medal in the under-23 category, Suzana Fesehaye secured a bronze medal in the under-23 category, and Birikti Fesehaye won a silver medal in the road race.

At the competitions, which lasted four days, competitors from over 30 countries took part.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Africa Investment Forum : le Conseil d’administration du Mécanisme de financement du Processus de Rome/Plan Mattei (RPFF) tient sa première réunion à Rabat

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Conseil d’administration du Mécanisme de financement du Processus de Rome/Plan de Mattei (RPFF) s’est réuni pour la toute première fois à Rabat, au Maroc, en marge de l’Africa Investment Forum (AIF). 

Le Conseil des gouverneurs du RPFF a approuvé un plan de travail pour 2026 qui vise des engagements de près de 100 millions d’euros. Ces ressources devraient permettre de mobiliser plus de 550 millions d’euros de cofinancement à partir des ressources ordinaires de la Banque africaine de développement. Ces investissements permettront de faire progresser la croissance inclusive, d’améliorer la prestation de services essentiels, de renforcer la résilience au climat et de s’attaquer aux causes profondes de la migration irrégulière. 

Cette réunion marque une étape importante pour le RPFF, qui a été approuvé par le Conseil des gouverneurs de la Banque africaine de développement en février 2025. Kevin Kariuki, vice-président chargé de l’Électricité, de l’Énergie, du Climat et de la Croissance verte, a souligné l’importance cruciale du RPFF, notant qu’il était essentiel pour relever les défis profonds et interconnectés de l’Afrique. Le RPFF mobilise et canalise des ressources pour des investissements stratégiques dans les secteurs de l’énergie, des transports et de l’eau en cofinançant, par des prêts concessionnels ou des dons, des projets de la Banque africaine de développement, ainsi qu’en fournissant une assistance technique. Le RPFF, doté d’une capitalisation initiale de 158 millions d’euros, est soutenu par ses partenaires fondateurs : l’Italie et les Émirats arabes unis. 

« L’Italie est profondément engagée à cultiver une nouvelle ère de partenariat avec les pays africains, comme envisagé par le Plan Mattei. Le RPFF est une pierre angulaire de cet engagement, traduisant des objectifs communs en projets concrets qui permettront d’autonomiser les communautés, de stimuler la croissance économique et de renforcer la résilience au climat », a déclaré Lorenzo Ortona, représentant de l’Italie au Conseil d’administration du RPFF. « L’approbation de cet ambitieux plan de travail 2026 souligne notre détermination collective à accélérer le développement durable et à relever les défis urgents qui se posent sur le continent. » 

« Les Émirats arabes unis croient fermement au pouvoir de la collaboration mondiale pour parvenir à un développement durable et lutter contre le changement climatique », a affirmé Sarah Jasim, directrice du Département du développement durable au sein de l’Agence d’aide des Émirats arabes unis et représentante des Émirats au Conseil d’administration du RPFF. « Notre soutien au RPFF témoigne de notre engagement à donner aux pays africains les ressources nécessaires pour construire des infrastructures résilientes, créer des opportunités et améliorer la vie de leurs citoyens. Nous avons hâte de voir l’impact transformateur des projets décrits dans le plan de travail annuel 2026. » 

Au cours de ses premiers mois d’existence, le Fonds a déjà approuvé deux projets qui témoignent de son engagement immédiat en faveur d’un impact sur le terrain. D’une part, le Projet de développement des chaînes de valeur agricoles de la Province orientale (ERAVCDP), en Angola, est une contribution de 17 millions d’euros sous forme de prêt concessionnel à un projet de 183 millions d’euros qui vise à améliorer la transformation des produits agricoles et le développement des chaînes de valeur, renforçant ainsi la sécurité alimentaire et les opportunités économiques au niveau régional. D’autre part, le Programme d’aménagement hydraulique résilient pour l’amélioration des moyens de subsistance à Borana II, en Éthiopie, est une contribution sous forme de don de six millions d’euros à un projet de 60 millions d’euros : celui-ci améliore l’accès à l’eau et à l’assainissement résilient au climat pour les communautés pastorales de la zone de Borana, renforce la gestion des bassins versants et promeut des mesures d’adaptation au climat essentielles, avec un fort accent mis sur la participation des femmes.  

« Nous sommes immensément reconnaissants à nos partenaires fondateurs, l’Italie et les Émirats arabes unis, pour leur soutien et leur engagement pionniers », a salué Daniel Schroth, directeur des énergies renouvelables et de l’efficacité énergétique à la Banque africaine de développement et chef de l’unité de coordination technique du RPFF. Avant d’ajouter : « Ensemble, nous avons créé un mécanisme qui servira de catalyseur pour un développement transformateur, en relevant les défis climatiques et en stimulant la prospérité sur le continent. » 

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

À propos du Mécanisme de financement du Processus de Rome/Plan Mattei (RPFF) : 
Le Mécanisme de financement du processus de Rome/Plan Mattei (RPFF) est un mécanisme de financement multi-donateurs hébergé par la Banque africaine de développement. Le RPFF est un instrument clé dans la réalisation des objectifs du Processus de Rome/Plan Mattei. Il a soutenu des projets souverains d’infrastructure respectueux du climat dans les secteurs de l’énergie, des transports et de l’eau en Afrique, afin d’appuyer le développement durable et de contribuer à lutter contre les causes profondes de la migration irrégulière. 
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Grâce à ses deux guichets de financement (le guichet d’assistance technique non remboursable et le guichet d’investissement pour les prêts concessionnels et les dons), le RPFF veille à ce que les financements soient dirigés là où ils peuvent avoir le plus grand impact à long terme, tout en renforçant la bonne gouvernance et les capacités institutionnelles, en créant des emplois, en améliorant les moyens de subsistance et en renforçant la résilience des communautés vulnérables.

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 Investment Forum: Rome Process/Mattei Plan Financing Facility (RPFF) Governing Council holds inaugural in-person meeting in Rabat

Source: APO – Report:

The Rome Process/Mattei Plan Financing Facility (RPFF) Governing Council convened for its first-ever in-person meeting in Rabat, Morocco, on the margins of the Africa Investment Forum (AIF).

The Governing Council approved the RPFF’s 2026 work plan, which targets commitments of close to €100 million. These resources are expected to leverage more than €550 million in co-financing from the African Development Bank’s ordinary resources. The investments will advance inclusive growth, enhance essential service delivery, build climate resilience, and address the root causes of irregular migration.

This meeting marks an important milestone for the RPFF, which was approved by the African Development Bank Board of Governors in February 2025. Dr Kevin K. Kariuki, Vice President, Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth, underscored RPFF’s critical importance, noting that it is truly vital in addressing Africa’s profound and interconnected challenges. It mobilises and channels resources into strategic investments in the energy, transport, and water sectors through co-financing—via concessional loans or grants—of African Development Bank projects, as well as through the provision of technical assistance.The RPFF, with an initial capitalisation of €158 million, is supported by its founding partners: Italy and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

“Italy is profoundly committed to cultivating a new era of partnership with African nations, as envisioned by the Mattei Plan. The RPFF is a cornerstone of this commitment, translating shared goals into tangible projects that will empower communities, drive economic growth, and enhance climate resilience,” said Lorenzo Ortona, Representative for Italy at the RPFF Governing Council. “The approval of this ambitious 2026 Work Plan underscores our collective resolve to accelerate sustainable development and address pressing challenges across the continent.”

“The UAE firmly believes in the power of global collaboration to achieve sustainable development and address climate change,” said Sarah Jasim, Director of Sustainable Development Department at the UAE Aid Agency and Representative for the UAE at the RPFF Governing Council. “Our support for the RPFF reflects our dedication to empowering African nations with the resources needed to build resilient infrastructure, create opportunities, and improve the lives of their citizens. We look forward to witnessing the transformative impact of the projects outlined in the 2026 Annual Work Plan.”

In the first few months of operation, the RPFF has already approved two projects that demonstrate its immediate commitment to on-the-ground impact. The Eastern Region Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (ERAVCDP) in Angola is a €17 million concessional loan contribution to a €183  million project that aims to enhance agricultural processing and value chain development, strengthening regional food security and economic opportunities. The Borana Resilient Water Development for Improved Livelihoods Program II in Ethiopia is a €6 million grant contribution to a €60  million project that is improving access to climate-resilient water and sanitation for pastoralist communities in the Borana zone, strengthening catchment management, and promoting crucial climate adaptation measures, with a strong focus on women’s participation.

Dr Daniel Schroth, African Development Bank Director for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency and head of the RPFF Technical Coordination Unit, said:  “We are immensely grateful to our founding partners, Italy and the UAE, for their pioneering support and commitment. Together, we have created a facility that will be a catalyst for transformative development, addressing climate challenges, and driving prosperity across the continent.”

– on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

About the Rome Process/Mattei Plan Financing Facility (RPFF): 
The Rome Process/Mattei Plan Financing Facility (RPFF) is a multi-donor financing facility hosted by the African Development Bank. The RPFF is a key instrument in actualising the goals of the Rome Process and the Mattei Plan. It supported climate-aligned sovereign infrastructure projects in the energy, transport and water sectors in Africa to support sustainable development and contribute to addressing the root causes of irregular migration. Through its two financing windows: (i) Non-reimbursable technical assistance window and (ii) Investment window (Concessional loan and Grant), it ensures that financing is directed where it can have the greatest long-term impact, while reinforcing good governance and institutional capacity, creating jobs, improving livelihoods, and strengthening resilience in vulnerable communities.

About the African Development Bank Group: 
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) 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 34 African countries with an external office in Japan, the AfDB 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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