Category: Africa

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President Ramaphosa removes Dr Nkabane and appoints new Minister and Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has removed Dr Nobuhle Nkabane from the role of Minister and Higher Education and Training and has, in terms of Section 91 (2) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, appointed Mr. Buti Kgwaridi Manamela as Minister of Higher Education and Training. Mr. Manamela was, until this appointment, serving as Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training – a role he held from the 6th Administration. 

Consequently, President Ramaphosa has, in terms of Section 93 (b) of the Constitution, appointed Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube as Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training. Dr Dube’s long Government leadership experience includes serving as MEC for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) and Premier of KwaZulu-Natal Province, amongst other roles. Section 93 (b) empowers the President to appoint no more than two Deputy Ministers from outside the Assembly. 

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Cabo Verde: Ministro do Mar enaltece conclusão da remoção do navio “MV DEIMOS” no Porto de Vale dos Cavaleiros, ilha do Fogo

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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O Ministro do Mar, Eng.º Jorge Santos, esteve no sábado, 19, no Porto de Vale dos Cavaleiros, na ilha do Fogo, para testemunhar o encerramento oficial dos trabalhos de remoção do navio “MV DEIMOS” que ali encalhou a 13 de novembro de 2020. A operação, complexa e de grande importância estratégica, foi conduzida sob a coordenação do Instituto Marítimo e Portuário (IMP), enquanto autoridade marítima nacional que na ocasião assinou com a Koole Contractors, empresa dos Países Baixos, o documento de conclusão de trabalho.

Com um custo total de cerca de 120 mil contos, integralmente suportado pela seguradora do navio, a intervenção visou restituir a normalidade operacional no porto e eliminar riscos à navegação e ao ambiente marinho local.

Na ocasião, o Ministro do Mar destacou o simbolismo e a relevância ambiental da ação, afirmando que esta remoção representa não apenas a eliminação de um obstáculo físico, mas também um compromisso firme com a proteção da orla costeira e com a segurança dos espaços portuários e marítimos.

Jorge Santos anunciou ainda que, com base na experiência adquirida nesta operação, o Governo dará seguimento, em breve, ao processo de remoção de outros dois navios encalhados na baía do Mindelo, em São Vicente, reforçando a aposta na segurança marítima e na valorização dos portos e baías nacionais.

Por sua vez, o Presidente do IMP, Dr. Seidi Santos, sublinhou a complexidade técnica do processo e enalteceu o envolvimento coordenado das equipas, que permitiu uma intervenção eficaz, segura e respeitadora dos padrões ambientais e operacionais exigidos.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Governo de Cabo Verde.

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President appoints new DHET Minister, Deputy Minister

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, July 21, 2025

President Cyril Ramaphosa has removed Dr Nobuhle Nkabane from the role of Minister of Higher Education and Training and has appointed Buti Manamela as Minister of the portfolio.

Manamela was until this appointment serving as Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, a role he held from the 6th administration.

The announcement was made in a statement issued by The Presidency on Monday night.

“Consequently, President Ramaphosa has in terms of Section 93 (b) of the Constitution appointed Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training. 

“Dr Dube’s long government leadership experience includes serving as MEC for Cooperative Government and Traditional Affairs and Premier of the Province of KwaZulu-Natal, amongst other roles,” said the President’s office.

Section 93 (b) empowers the President to appoint no more than two Deputy Ministers from outside the Assembly. 

Last month, the President had requested that Nkabane provide him with a detailed report on the decorum and substance of her engagement with Parliament. This followed media commentary on her appearance before the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training on 30 May 2025. 

READ I Minister requested to provide a report on decorum in Parliament 

The Minister was seen in a viral video on social media eating while responding to a question from the Chairperson of the Higher Education committee, Tebogo Letsie. 

President Ramaphosa said at the time that the request for the report was in view of the President’s expectation that Ministers, Deputy Ministers and senior executives in the public sector conduct themselves professionally, transparently and cordially in engaging with Parliament and other accountability institutions. – SAnews.gov.za

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Em Mékro, no centro da Costa do Marfim, a agricultura sustentável dá esperança a toda uma comunidade

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O dia amanhece em Mékro, a cerca de 300 quilómetros de Abidjan, no centro da Costa do Marfim. Os primeiros raios de sol anunciam um dia quente nesta região conhecida por ser uma zona de temperaturas extremas. Enquanto algumas mulheres regressam do pântano para abastecer de água as colmeias familiares, outras, munidas de vassouras feitas com folhas de palmeira, tentam restaurar a limpeza das concessões, prejudicada pelas folhas das árvores e pelos restos da refeição do dia anterior. 

Mais adiante, os animais domésticos saem gradualmente dos seus currais e juntam-se a esta dinâmica que devolve a Mékro a sua vitalidade quotidiana. Nesta zona de grande produção de culturas alimentares, o inhame, o arroz e a mandioca são produzidos em abundância. Apesar do seu rico potencial agrícola, Mékro permaneceu durante muito tempo na sombra, ao contrário de outras localidades. Os camponeses, abandonados à própria sorte, utilizavam métodos agrícolas antigos, o que limitava os seus rendimentos e condenava a população a uma precariedade crónica. 

Nessa manhã, Koffi Kouakou Charles, conhecido como ‘KKC’, sob o olhar admirado dos seus sete filhos, afia uma machete, a ferramenta rudimentar que utiliza para limpar o seu campo. O trintão monta na sua bicicleta em direção a Abokouassikro, a cinco quilómetros dali, onde fica o seu campo de inhame, que cultiva há vários anos. 

Antigamente, Koffi cultivava inhame «Kouba», uma variedade popular na localidade. Com as técnicas rudimentares aprendidas e transmitidas pelos seus antepassados, os seus rendimentos não correspondiam aos seus esforços, explica ele, quando olha para trás. “Francamente, o trabalho era cansativo. Além disso, utilizávamos técnicas antigas. Apesar dos esforços, as colheitas eram fracas. Era realmente difícil”, suspira Koffi, ao recordar esses tempos.

Esperança renovada

Como se não bastasse, durante o primeiro semestre de 2024, uma epidemia conhecida como ‘peste dos pequenos ruminantes’ assolou a aldeia e levou-lhe todo o seu gado de galinhas e cabras. Privado desse outro recurso, Koffi voltou-se para o Projeto de Reforço dos Meios de Subsistência dos Pequenos Agricultores e das Mulheres (PREMOPEF) (https://apo-opa.co/40ujK40) para recuperar a esperança. 

Criado pelo governo da Costa do Marfim, o projeto é financiado pelo Programa Global para a Agricultura e a Segurança Alimentar (GAFSP) (https://apo-opa.co/4nYpe0T) e pelo Fundo Africano de Desenvolvimento (https://apo-opa.co/41047RW), a janela concessional do Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento. O seu objetivo é contribuir, por um lado, para a melhoria da segurança alimentar e nutricional e, por outro, para a resiliência aos efeitos das alterações climáticas dos pequenos agricultores, das mulheres e dos jovens na região de N’Zi.

O projeto desenvolve três culturas agrícolas: inhame, mandioca, hortaliças e avicultura tradicional, e visa melhorar as condições de vida de 60 mil pessoas vulneráveis, das quais 50% são mulheres e 35% são jovens.

No ‘Campo Escola Camponesa’, uma das iniciativas do projeto, Koffi e os seus colegas, beneficiários do projeto, foram iniciados em técnicas agroecológicas de produção e conservação do inhame. Graças a esta formação, Koffi abandonou o inhame ‘Kouba’ e as antigas práticas de produção, em favor de novas variedades ‘Anader’ e ‘Camarão’ (também chamadas ‘R3’ e ‘C15’), mais resistentes ao clima e mais produtivas.

Um rendimento duas vezes maior

Desde a primeira colheita, em dezembro de 2024, o rendimento do campo de Koffi duplicou, passando de duas para quatro toneladas na mesma área. Previdente, o agricultor reservou três quartos da sua produção para consumo da sua família e para sementes da campanha seguinte. A outra parte, que representa um quarto da sua colheita, foi vendida no mercado de Mékro, gerando uma receita de 125 mil francos CFA (cerca de 250 dólares), uma fortuna nesta localidade.

“Antes, só pensava em sobreviver. Hoje, graças a este projeto, posso garantir o futuro dos meus filhos e até ampliar a minha parcela”, prevê, entusiasmado. Koffi quer agora crescer e tornar-se um dos maiores produtores de inhame da região. A ideia de mecanizar as suas atividades agrícolas dá-lhe asas: “Estou a pensar comprar uma máquina para fazer montículos e uma semeadora para facilitar o trabalho no campo e produzir muito mais inhame”, diz com confiança.

“O Projeto de Reforço dos Meios de Subsistência dos Pequenos Agricultores e das Mulheres é uma ferramenta poderosa para reduzir a vulnerabilidade económica das famílias e melhorar mais amplamente a sua resiliência aos choques económicos e ambientais”, explica Ceserd Waba Akpaud, coordenador do projeto.

“O PREMOPEF ilustra o nosso compromisso de transformar as comunidades rurais através de soluções sustentáveis, centradas nas necessidades reais dos pequenos produtores. Através de abordagens inovadoras, colocamos a agricultura no centro do desenvolvimento inclusivo”, sublinhou o coordenador do projeto GAFSP no Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento, Philip Boahen.

Para aumentar a sua produção, Koffi também prevê um armazenamento em grande escala num armazém para reduzir as perdas pós-colheita. Além disso, planeia diversificar as suas atividades. Tendo aprendido com a destruição do seu gado pela peste dos pequenos ruminantes, que atribui à falta de formação, Koffi pretende relançar a sua atividade avícola com métodos mais seguros. Para tal, quer ter formação profissionalizante em técnicas de criação de gado.

“É também uma oportunidade para colmatar as minhas lacunas de conhecimento, devido ao facto de ter abandonado a escola demasiado cedo”, afirma, determinado a superar o que dantes era uma desvantagem.

Graças aos conhecimentos e ao impacto positivo do projeto na vida de beneficiários como Koffi, um novo futuro torna-se possível para os habitantes de Mékro e para toda a economia da região de N’Zi.

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

Sobre o 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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À Mékro, dans le centre de la Côte d’Ivoire, l’agriculture durable donne de l’espoir à toute une communauté

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le jour se lève à Mékro, à quelque 300 kilomètres d’Abidjan, dans le centre de la Côte d’Ivoire. Les premiers rayons du soleil annoncent une chaude journée dans cette région réputée pour être une zone aux températures extrêmes. Tandis que certaines femmes reviennent du marigot pour alimenter en eau les ruches familiales, d’autres, munies de balais confectionnés à base de feuilles de palmier, tentent de restaurer la propreté des concessions mise à mal par les feuillages des arbres et les restes du repas de la veille.

Plus loin, les animaux domestiques sortant progressivement de leurs enclos, se mêlent à cette dynamique qui restitue à Mékro sa vitalité quotidienne. Dans cette zone de grande production de cultures vivrières, l’igname, le riz et le manioc sont produits en abondance. Malgré son riche potentiel agricole, Mékro est restée longtemps dans l’ombre, contrairement à d’autres localités. Les paysans, livrés à eux-mêmes, utilisaient des méthodes agricoles anciennes, ce qui limitait leurs rendements et condamnait la population à une précarité chronique. 

Ce matin-là, Koffi Kouakou Charles dit « KKC », sous le regard admiratif de ses sept enfants, aiguise une machette, l’outil rudimentaire qu’il utilise pour défricher son champ. Le trentenaire enfourche sa bicyclette en direction d’Abokouassikro, à cinq kilomètres de là, où se trouve son champ d’igname qu’il travaille depuis plusieurs années.

Jadis, Koffi cultivait l’igname « Kouba », une variété populaire dans la localité. Avec les techniques rudimentaires apprises et transmises par ses ascendants, ses rendements n’ont pas été à la hauteur de ses efforts, explique-t-il, lorsqu’il fait un retour en arrière. « Franchement, le travail était fatiguant. En plus nous utilisions les techniques à l’ancienne. Malgré les efforts fournis, les récoltes étaient faibles. C’était pénible, vraiment », soupire Koffi.

De l’espoir retrouvé

Comme pour ne pas arranger les choses, au cours du premier semestre de l’année 2024, une épidémie dite de la « peste des petits ruminants » s’est abattue sur le village et a emporté son cheptel de poulets et de chèvres. Privé de cette autre ressource, Koffi s’est tourné vers le Projet de renforcement des moyens de subsistance des petits exploitants et des femmes (PREMOPEF) (https://apo-opa.co/40ujK40) pour retrouver de l’espoir.

Mis en place par le gouvernement ivoirien, le projet est financé par le Programme mondial pour l’agriculture et la sécurité alimentaire (GAFSP) (https://apo-opa.co/4lEIa36), et le Fonds africain de développement (https://apo-opa.co/4o1986y), le guichet concessionnel du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement. Son objectif est de contribuer, d’une part, à l’amélioration de la sécurité alimentaire et nutritionnelle, et, d’autre part, à la résilience aux effets du changement climatique des petits exploitants, des femmes et des jeunes dans la région du N’Zi.

Le projet développe trois spéculations agricoles : l’igname, le manioc, les cultures maraîchères, et la volaille traditionnelle, et vise à améliorer les conditions de vie de 60 000 personnes vulnérables, dont 50 % de femmes et 35 % de jeunes.

Au « Champ école paysan », l’une des initiatives du projet, Koffi et ses camarades, bénéficiaires du projet, ont été initiés à des techniques agroécologiques de production et de conservation de l’igname. Grâce à cette formation, Koffi a tourné le dos à l’igname « Kouba » et aux anciennes pratiques de production, au profit de nouvelles variétés « Anader » et « Cameroun » (encore appelées « R3 » et « C15 »), plus résistantes au climat et plus productives. 

Un rendement du simple au double

Dès la première récolte, en décembre 2024, le rendement du champ de Koffi a doublé, passant de deux à quatre tonnes sur la même superficie. Prévoyant, l’agriculteur a réservé trois quarts de sa production à la consommation de sa famille et aux semences de la campagne suivante. L’autre partie, représentant un quart de sa récolte, a été vendue au marché de Mékro, générant un revenu de 125 000 francs CFA (environ 250 dollars américains), une aubaine dans cette localité.

« Avant, je ne pensais qu’à survivre. Aujourd’hui, grâce à ce projet, je peux assurer l’avenir de mes enfants et même agrandir ma parcelle », se projette-t-il, enthousiaste. Koffi veut désormais passer à la vitesse supérieure et devenir l’un des plus grands producteurs d’igname de la région. L’idée de mécaniser ses activités agricoles lui donne des ailes : « Je songe à acheter une machine à buttes et un semoir pour faciliter le travail au champ et produire beaucoup plus d’igname », dit-il avec confiance.

« Le Projet de renforcement des moyens de subsistance des petits exploitants et des femmes est un outil puissant pour réduire la vulnérabilité économique des ménages et améliorer plus largement leur résilience aux chocs économique et environnementaux », explique Ceserd Waba Akpaud, le coordonnateur du projet.

« Le PREMOPEF illustre notre engagement à transformer les communautés rurales à travers des solutions durables, axées sur les besoins réels des petits producteurs. À travers des approches innovantes, nous mettons l’agriculture au cœur du développement inclusif », a souligné le coordonnateur du projet GAFSP à la Banque africaine de développement, Philip Boahen.

Dans la perspective de l’augmentation de sa production, Koffi entrevoit également un stockage à grande échelle dans un magasin pour réduire les pertes post-récolte. En outre, il se projette dans la dynamique de la diversification de ses activités. Tirant les leçons de la destruction de son cheptel par la peste des petits ruminants, qu’il attribue au manque de formation, Koffi envisage de relancer son activité avicole avec des méthodes plus sûres.  Pour ce faire, il compte suivre une formation qualifiante aux techniques d’élevage.

« C’est aussi l’occasion pour moi de combler mon déficit de connaissances du fait d’avoir arrêté trop tôt l’école », assure-t-il-, résolu à surpasser ce qui était jadis un handicap.

Grâce aux connaissances et à l’impact positif du projet dans la vie des bénéficiaires comme Koffi, un nouvel avenir se dessine pour les habitants de Mékro et de l’économie de la région du N’Zi tout entière.

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

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In Mékro, in central Côte d’Ivoire, sustainable agriculture is giving hope to an entire community

Source: APO

Day breaks in Mékro, some 300 km from Abidjan, in central Côte d’Ivoire. The first rays of sun announce the start of what promises to be another sweltering day in a region known for its intense heat. Some women return from the backwaters bringing water to supply the family beehives. Others, armed with brooms made from palm leaves, begin sweeping the compounds, clearing away fallen leaves and scraps from the previous day’s meals.

A little farther off, domestic animals gradually emerge from their pens, joining the morning hustle and bustle that breathes life back into Mékro’s daily routine. In this area of high food crop production, yams, rice and cassava are produced in abundance. Yet despite its agricultural riches, Mékro has long remained in the shadows, unlike other places.

For years, farmers here relied on age-old techniques passed down through generations—methods that limited yields and left the population in a state of chronic vulnerability.

That morning, Koffi Kouakou Charles, known as “KKC,” sharpened his machete, the basic tool he uses to clear his field, under the watchful eyes of his seven children. At 30 years old, he mounted his bicycle and headed to Abokouassikro, five km away, where he has cultivated yams for several years.

In the past, Koffi grew “Kouba” yams, a popular local variety. Reflecting on those days, he recalls how traditional farming techniques learned and passed down from his ancestors, failed to reward his hard work. “Frankly, the work was exhausting. On top of that, we were using old-fashioned techniques. Despite our efforts, the harvests were poor. It was really hard,” sighs Koffi.

Hope restored

In the first half of 2024, his plight worsened when an epidemic known as the peste des petits ruminants (PPR) struck the village and wiped out his hens and goats. Hurting from this new financial blow, Koffi turned to the Project to Improve the Livelihoods of Smallholders and Women (PREMOPEF) (https://apo-opa.co/40ujK40) to regain hope.

Set up by the government of Côte d’Ivoire, the project is funded by the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program (GAFSP) (https://apo-opa.co/4lEIa36) and the African Development Fund (https://apo-opa.co/4o1986y), the concessional financing window of the African Development Bank Group. Its objective is to contribute to improving first, food and nutrition security and secondly, resilience to the effects of climate change among smallholder farmers, women and young people in the N’Zi region.

The project is focused on three agricultural crops: yams, cassava and vegetables, as well as traditional poultry farming, and aims to improve the living conditions of 60,000 vulnerable people, 50 percent of whom are women and 35 percent young people.

At the “Farmer Training Field,” one of the project’s initiatives, Koffi and his fellow project beneficiaries were introduced to agroecological techniques for yam production and conservation. Thanks to the training, Koffi has turned his back on “Kouba” yams and old production practices in favour of new varieties called “Anader” and “Cameroun” (also known as “R3” and “C15”), which are more climate-resistant and productive. 

A twofold increase in yield

From his first harvest in December 2024, Koffi’s yam yield doubled—from two to four tonnes on the same plot of land. Thinking ahead, he reserved three-quarters of the harvest for his family’s consumption and seed stock for the next season. The remaining quarter was sold at the local market in Mékro, earning him 125,000 CFA francs (around USD 250)—a significant windfall in this rural region.

“Before, I was just focused on surviving,” Koffi says. “Today, thanks to this project, I can think about my children’s future and even expand my farm.” Energized by his progress, Koffi is now determined to scale up and become one of the region’s leading yam producers. The prospect of mechanizing his work excites him. “I’m thinking of buying a ridging machine and a seed drill to make fieldwork easier and increase my yield,” he says confidently.

“The Project to Improve the Livelihoods of Smallholders and Women is a powerful tool for reducing household vulnerability and strengthening resilience to economic and environmental shocks,” says Ceserd Waba Akpaud, the project coordinator.

“PREMOPEF reflects our commitment to transforming rural communities through sustainable, farmer-focused solutions. By applying innovative approaches, we’re putting agriculture at the center of inclusive development,” adds Philip Boahen, GAFSP project coordinator at the African Development Bank.

To further boost his productivity, Koffi also envisions large-scale storage facilities to cut post-harvest losses. He’s planning to diversify his activities too. After losing his livestock to PPR—a disease he attributes to a lack of proper training—he intends to relaunch his poultry business using improved, safer methods. He is now exploring livestock training courses to build the necessary skills.

“It’s also a chance for me to make up for the schooling I missed,” he says, determined to turn past setbacks into opportunities.

With the knowledge he’s gained and the positive impact of the project, a new horizon is opening—not just for Koffi, but for the people of Mékro and the broader economy of the N’Zi region.

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

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Liberia: President Boakai Hails the Kingdom of Belgium on its National Day Observance

Source: APO


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The President of the Republic of Liberia, His Excellency President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has sent a congratulatory message to His Majesty King Philippe, King of the Kingdom of Belgium on the occasion of Belgium’s National Day on July 21, 2025.

According to a Foreign Ministry release, President Boakai, on behalf of the Republic of Liberia and in his own name, extended warmest congratulations and best wishes to the Kingdom of Belgium as they commemorate their National Day.

The Liberian leader indicated that the occasion provides an opportunity to celebrate the enduring values of unity, democracy and prosperity that Belgium has long upheld. 

He noted that his government cherishes the long-lasting bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations which is built on mutual respect and shared aspirations for peace, development and global solidarity. 

President Boakai stressed that as the Belgian people mark this important day, Liberia joins in honoring their rich history, cultural heritage and remarkable achievements. 

“May the future bring continued progress, united, and the well-being to your nation and people”, the Liberia President stated. 

He then extended best wishes for His Majesty personal well-being, and for the people of Belgium sustained prosperity.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Liberia.

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United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS)-supported vocational training for prisoners builds hope for a better future

Source: APO


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It’s a good day at the Kuajok prison—a baby has been born, and this tiny little life is emblematic of the positive impact prison reforms, particularly vocational training, has been having on the lives of inmates.

As a visiting team from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) traversed the prison corridors, male prisoners are singing popular songs. In a few minutes, they’ll be heading to a class in accounting.

Their female counterparts are engaged in tailoring lessons.

The Deputy Director of the prison, Joseph Akol Lual, says that these trainings, which were funded by the UN Peacekeeping mission in 2023, have greatly helped build morale and motivation among inmates.

“Our main purpose as a prison facility is to ensure that those incarcerated are treated with dignity and they have an opportunity to become productive members of society upon completion of their sentences,” he explains.

“By learning new skills, prisoners are becoming more confident in their ability to make a living once they are released. This feeling of being economically empowered fuels them every day.” 

Mr Lual’s words resonate with those participating in this skills programme.

“I love designing clothes and making them. So, I pay great attention to my tailoring classes here. When I finish my time in prison, I’m confident that I can start my own small business and make women feel beautiful in my creations,” said a female inmate who prefers not to be named.

Women serving time in the Kuajok prison have been supported by the UN Peacekeeping mission in other ways as well, particularly through the construction of a perimeter wall separating male and female prison quarters.

“We were approached by prison authorities to help ensure that women inmates were not at risk of sexual violence and we funded the construction of a perimeter wall to give female prisoners privacy and safety through our Quick Impact Projects programme. We also trained women prisoners to contribute to the building of their own space,” says Precious Chinamasa, an UNMISS Corrections Officer, who facilitated the project.

Today, the women and men detained at this prison have compounds that are characterized by spaciousness and safety. Weather permitting, they also cultivate basic crops in case local vendors are unable to deliver essential food items, a common situation, especially during the rainy season. 

Such sustainable steps to reform prisons go a long way to ensure that when it’s time for their release, prisoners can look forward to reintegrating fully into their families and communities.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

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L’assemblée annuelles d’Afreximbank enregistrent des accords de préparation de projets susceptibles de débloquer environ 1 milliard de dollars d’investissements

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La 32e Assemblée annuelle de la Banque africaine d’import-export (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), également connue sous le nom de AAM2025, a été marquée par une série de signatures d’accords lors de sa deuxième journée, le 26 juin. Quatre transactions liées à la préparation de projets ont été conclues entre la Banque et diverses entités, avec des investissements attendus d’une valeur d’environ 1 milliard de dollars américains.

Dans le cadre d’un accord signé par Mme Kanayo Awani, vice-présidente exécutive chargée du commerce intra-africain et du développement des exportations pour Afreximbank, et Mme Temwani Simwaka, directrice générale de NBS Bank Plc (NBS), Malawi, les deux institutions ont conclu un accord-cadre de mécanisme conjoint de préparation de projets. Aux termes de cet accord, elles mettront en commun leurs ressources afin de fournir un financement précoce pour la préparation de projets, permettant ainsi de faire progresser les projets au Malawi, depuis l’étape de préfaisabilité jusqu’à leur viabilité bancaire, dans des délais appropriés.

Comme le prévoit l’accord, Afreximbank et NBS soutiendront les investisseurs des secteurs public et privé en leur fournissant des services de financement et d’assistance technique afin de réduire les risques liés aux projets dans les secteurs prioritaires, y compris l’énergie, les transports et la logistique, les plateformes logistiques (telles que les zones économiques spéciales et les parcs industriels), l’industrie manufacturière, la transformation agricole, l’hôtellerie et le tourisme, les industries extractives, les minéraux solides et les services (tels que les TIC, les soins de santé et l’économie créative). L’accord-cadre contient un programme de renforcement des capacités qui permettra au personnel de SNB d’entreprendre des activités de préparation de projets à moyen terme.

Afreximbank et NBS prévoient d’investir environ 300 millions de dollars US au Malawi à court terme.

Dans le cadre d’une autre transaction, Afreximbank a signé un accord relatif à un mécanisme de préparation de projet d’un montant de 4,4 millions de dollars US en faveur de Med Aditus Pharmaceutical Kenya Limited. Cette facilité sera utilisée pour financer la préparation d’études de faisabilité et de bancabilité en vue du développement d’une usine pharmaceutique de pointe dédiée au remplissage et à la finition, d’une capacité de production d’au moins deux milliards de comprimés et de gélules par an, située à Kibos, dans le comté de Kisumu, au Kenya.

Le projet améliorera l’accès à des médicaments vitaux, abordables et de qualité dans toute la région des Grands Lacs, contribuant ainsi à améliorer les résultats sanitaires dans une région qui est confrontée à un lourd fardeau de maladies infectieuses et autres. Le projet facilitera également le transfert de technologies médicales et de fabrication basées sur la blockchain vers l’Afrique, soutenant ainsi la croissance à long terme et le renforcement du secteur de la santé dans l’ensemble de la région. Le mécanisme de préparation des projets apportera des actifs d’environ 40 millions de dollars US.

Mme Kanayo Awani, Vice-présidente exécutive chargée du commerce intra-africain et du développement des exportations, a signé l’accord au nom d’Afreximbank, tandis que le Dr Dhiren Thakker, fondateur et PDG de Med Aditus Pharma, a paraphé le document pour le compte de son entreprise.

Afreximbank a en outre signé un protocole d’accord concernant un mécanisme de préparation de projet d’un montant de 4,4 millions de dollars US en faveur de Green Hybrid Power Private Limited. Ce mécanisme sera utilisé pour la préparation d’études de bancabilité et de faisabilité et le recrutement de conseillers en transactions pour un système photovoltaïque solaire flottant hybride d’une puissance de 1 gigawatt (GW) sur le lac Kariba, au Zimbabwe.

Le projet, qui sera mis en œuvre en deux phases, comprend une phase pilote visant une capacité de production de 500 MW qui sera entièrement vendue au groupe des grands consommateurs d’énergie, un consortium d’industries et de sociétés minières au Zimbabwe, dans le cadre d’un contrat d’achat d’électricité de 20 ans de type « take-or-pay » (achat garanti) avec un tarif reflétant les coûts. Le projet devrait fournir une énergie abordable et fiable qui favorisera la valorisation et l’enrichissement des minerais du Zimbabwe, stimulant ainsi les recettes en devises étrangères du pays.

Le mécanisme de préparation des projets permettra de débloquer un investissement estimé à 350 millions de dollars US.

L’accord a été signé par Mme Kanayo Awani, Vice-présidente exécutive, chargée du commerce intra-africain et du développement des exportations, au nom d’Afreximbank, et M. Eddie Cross, Président de Green Hybrid Power Private Limited.

Afreximbank a par ailleurs signé un protocole d’accord de 4 millions de dollars US en faveur de Proton Energy Limited, un producteur d’électricité indépendant nigérian. Ce mécanisme servira à financer la préparation d’études de faisabilité et l’achat de services de conseil en matière de transactions pour le développement d’une centrale électrique au gaz raccordée au réseau d’une capacité nominale de 500 MW à Sapele, au Nigeria. Le projet démarrera avec une capacité de production initiale de 150 MW.

L’électricité produite sera essentiellement fournie à Eko Electricity Distribution Company dans le cadre d’un contrat d’achat d’électricité de 20 ans à un tarif reflétant les coûts.

Cette facilité devrait permettre de mettre en service des actifs estimés à 300 millions de dollars US.

L’accord a été signé par Mme Kanayo Awani, Vice-présidente exécutive, chargée du commerce intra-africain et du développement des exportations, au nom d’Afreximbank, et M. Oti Ikomi, Directeur général Proton Energy Limited.

Les AAM2025 se sont tenues du 25 au 28 juin et ont attiré environ 8 000 participants, dont des Présidents, des Premiers ministres, des ministres et des chefs d’entreprise de toute l’Afrique, des Caraïbes et d’ailleurs. Les AAM2025 ont pris fin avec l’Assemblée générale annuelle des actionnaires, au cours de laquelle le Dr George Elombi a été nommé prochain Président de la Banque. Il succèdera au Professeur Benedict Oramah, dont le mandat arrive à terme après deux mandats de cinq ans à ce poste.

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

Contact Presse :
Vincent Musumba
Responsable de la communication et de la gestion événementielle (Relations presse)
Courriel : press@afreximbank.com

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À propos d’Afreximbank :
La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) est une institution financière multilatérale panafricaine dédiée au financement et à la promotion du commerce intra et extra-africain. Depuis 30 ans, Afreximbank déploie des structures innovantes pour fournir des solutions de financement qui facilitent la transformation de la structure du commerce africain et accélèrent l’industrialisation et le commerce intrarégional, soutenant ainsi l’expansion économique en Afrique. Fervente défenseur de l’Accord sur la Zone de Libre-Échange Continentale Africaine (ZLECAf), Afreximbank a lancé les le Système panafricain de paiement et de règlement (PAPSS) qui a été adopté par l’Union africaine (UA) comme la plateforme de paiement et de règlement devant appuyer la mise en œuvre de la ZLECAf. En collaboration avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf et l’UA, la Banque a mis en place un Fonds d’ajustement de 10 milliards de dollars US pour aider les pays à participer de manière effective à la ZLECAf. À la fin de décembre 2024, le total des actifs et des garanties de la Banque s’élevait à environ 40,1 milliards de dollars US et les fonds de ses actionnaires s’établissaient à 7,2 milliards de dollars US. Afreximbank est notée A par GCR International Scale, Baa2 par Moody’s, AAA par China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI), A- par Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) et BBB par Fitch. Au fil des ans, Afreximbank est devenue un groupe constitué de la Banque, de sa filiale de financement à impact appelée Fonds de développement des exportations en Afrique (FEDA), et de sa filiale de gestion d’assurance, AfrexInsure, (les trois entités forment « le Groupe »). La Banque a son siège social au Caire, en Égypte.

Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez visiter www.Afreximbank.com.

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Afreximbank Annual Meetings record project preparation deals expected to unlock about US$ 1.0 billion in investments

Source: APO

The 32nd Annual Meetings of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), also known as AAM2025, witnessed a flurry of deal signings with four project preparation transactions signed between the Bank and various entities that are expected to unlock investments valued at about US$ 1.0 billion.

In an agreement signed by Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development, for Afreximbank, and Mrs. Temwani Simwaka, CEO, for NBS Bank Plc (NBS), Malawi, the two institutions executed a Joint Project Preparation Facility Framework Agreement under which they will pool resources to provide early project preparatory financing to progress projects in Malawi from pre-feasibility stage to bankability in a timely manner.

As set out in the agreement, Afreximbank and NBS will support public and private sector investors by availing financing and technical support services to de-risk projects in priority sectors, including energy, transport and logistics, logistical platforms (such as special economic zones and industrial parks), manufacturing, agro-processing, hospitality and tourism, extractives, solid minerals, and services (such as ICT, healthcare, and creative economy). Embedded in the framework agreement is a capacity building programme that will empower NBS staff to undertake project preparation activities in the medium term.

Afreximbank and NBS expect to bring onstream investments of about US$ 300 million in Malawi in the near term.

In another transaction, Afreximbank signed a US$ 4.4-million Project Preparation Facility Agreement in favour of Med Aditus Pharmaceutical Kenya Limited. The facility will be deployed to finance the preparation of feasibility and bankability studies towards the development of a state-of-the-art fill and finish pharmaceutical manufacturing plant, with a production capacity of at least two billion tablets and capsules per annum, located in Kibos, Kisumu County, Kenya.

The project will improve access to quality, affordable life-saving medicines across the Great Lakes region, contributing to better health outcomes in a region that contends with heavy loads of infectious and other diseases. The project will also facilitate medical and manufacturing blockchain technology transfer to Africa, supporting the long-term growth and strengthening the wider region’s health sector. The project preparation facility will bring onstream assets of about US$ 40 million.

Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development, signed the agreement on behalf of Afreximbank while Dr. Dhiren Thakker, Founder and CEO of Med Aditus Pharma, signed for his company.

Afreximbank also signed a Heads of Terms agreement for a US$4.4-million project preparation facility in favour of Green Hybrid Power Private Limited. The facility will be deployed towards the preparation of bankability and feasibility studies and procurement of transaction advisors for a 1-Gigawatt (GW) hybrid floating solar photovoltaic power system on Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe.

The project, to be implemented in two phases, includes a pilot phase targeting a generation capacity of 500 MW to be sold wholly to the Intensive Energy Users Group, a consortium of blue-chip industrial and mining energy users in Zimbabwe, under a “take-or-pay” 20-year power purchase agreement with a cost-reflective tariff. The project is expected to supply affordable and reliable power that will support value-addition and beneficiation of Zimbabwe’s minerals, thereby boosting the country’s foreign exchange earnings.

The project preparation facility will unlock an investment estimated at US$ 350 million.

Signing the agreement were Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development, on behalf of Afreximbank, and Mr. Eddie Cross, Chairman, for Green Hybrid Power Private Limited.

Afreximbank, in addition, signed a Project Preparation Facility Heads of Terms Agreement of US$ 4.0 million in favour of Proton Energy Limited, a Nigerian independent power producer. The facility will be deployed towards financing the preparation of feasibility studies and procurement of transaction advisory services for the development of a grid-connected gas-fired power plant with a nameplate capacity of 500 MW in Sapele, Nigeria. The project will commence with an initial generation capacity of 150 MW.

The project will evacuate the electricity generated primarily to Eko Electricity Distribution Company under a 20-year power purchase agreement with a cost-reflective tariff.

The facility is expected to bring on stream assets estimated at US$ 300 million.

Signing the agreement were Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development, on behalf of Afreximbank, and Mr. Oti Ikomi, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO, for Proton Energy Limited.

AAM2025 took place from 25 to 28 June and attracted an estimated 8,000 participants, including presidents, prime ministers, ministers and business leaders, from across Africa, the Caribbean and beyond. It ended with the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders where Dr. George Elombi was appointed the next President of the Bank who succeeds Prof. Benedict Oramah whose tenure is ending after two five-year terms in the position.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

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

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About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

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