Mercy Ships Supports National Response Following Cyclone Gezani in Madagascar

Source: APO – Report:

Following the devastating cyclone that struck Madagascar’s east coast, Mercy Ships (www.MercyShips.org) has joined with national disaster response efforts in Toamasina (Tamatave) through the provision of essential relief supplies, in coordination with the government’s disaster management authorities.

Cyclone Gezani caused extensive damage across the region, displacing thousands and severely affecting homes, public infrastructure, and healthcare facilities.

“In moments like these, partnerships and solidarity matter most,” said Nicholas Ahadjie, Country Director of Mercy Ships in Madagascar. “We are committed to supporting the national response and ensuring that assistance reaches communities where the needs are greatest.”

As part of its own immediate response, Mercy Ships has delivered 537 bags of rice, 1,000 roofing sheets, and 1,000 ready-to-eat meals. These supplies arrived in Toamasina and were officially handed over to the government’s Designated Disaster Response Coordination Body for distribution to affected communities.

The roofing materials will enable families, schools, and community health facilities to begin urgent repairs. The rice will be distributed to households impacted by the storm that still have functional cooking facilities, while ready-to-eat meals will provide immediate support to individuals and displaced families.

Although the Mercy Ships hospital vessel  Africa Mercy®, is currently undergoing scheduled maintenance in South Africa, preparations are underway for her return to Madagascar. Sometime this May, she is expected to resume surgical services and medical training programs in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.

“Our presence in Madagascar is on-going,” added Nicholas Ahadjie. “While the ship is in maintenance, our engagement with partners continues. We stand with the Malagasy people today and remain dedicated to strengthening healthcare capacity for the future.”

For several years, Mercy Ships has partnered with Madagascar to provide free specialized surgeries, professional medical training, and infrastructure support. The recent disaster will not stop the organization’s ongoing support for the Malagasy people as it continues to help reinforce their national health systems.

– on behalf of Mercy Ships.

ABOUT MERCY SHIPS:
Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with African nations for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact.  

Each year, more than 2,500 volunteer professionals from over 60 countries serve on board the world’s two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy® and the Global Mercy™. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical and anesthetic care. Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 and has offices in 16 countries as well as an Africa Service Center in Dakar, Senegal. For more information, visit www.MercyShips.org and follow @MercyShips on social media. 

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VUKA Group Announces Partnership to Boost Smart Meter Security

Source: APO – Report:

VUKA Group (https://WeAreVUKA.com) announces a strategic partnership between the Standard Transfer Specification Association (STSA) and the DLMS User Association (DLMS UA) to advance secure, interoperable, and future-ready smart metering systems.

The collaboration bridges legacy prepaid electricity meters with modern smart metering, aligning STS token technology with the widely adopted DLMS/COSEM data model. This enables utilities to modernize while protecting existing investments, ensuring secure data exchange and strengthened smart prepayment integration.

The partnership supports seamless STS token integration with DLMS/COSEM protocols, coordinated roadmap development, and expansion across electricity, water, gas, and time metering applications. With STS recently reaffirmed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and upgraded with enhanced encryption, the collaboration provides a trusted, sustainable path for interoperable smart metering worldwide.

Read more: https://apo-opa.co/4cYLeWl

– on behalf of VUKA Group.

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Verdant IMAP advises Polysmart on a strategic equity raise

Source: APO – Report:

Verdant IMAP (“Verdant”) (www.Verdant-Cap.com) is pleased to announce that it has advised Polysmart Packaging Group (“Polysmart” or the “Company”), a leading integrated recycled food-grade and non-food-grade recycled plastic manufacturer, on the successful close of a USD 5 million strategic equity investment from an African-focused private equity investor. The transaction provides growth capital to optimise operations, enhance production efficiency, and support Polysmart’s expansion into one of Nigeria’s most advanced rPET processing platforms, further positioning Polysmart as a globally competitive circular economy platform serving both domestic and international markets.

Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Ogun State, Nigeria, Polysmart has developed a rapidly scaling recycling and manufacturing platform spanning strategic partnerships across waste collection, sorting, aggregation, and the production of high-quality recycled plastic resins and flakes. The Company operates a state-of-the-art production facility supported by advanced European processing technology and adherence to international quality and environmental standards.

Polysmart is one of the largest suppliers of recycled plastic resins in Nigeria and a key producer food-grade / recycled polyethylene terephthalate (“rPET”) pellets for both domestic and export markets. Its customer base includes leading global beverage, bottling, and manufacturing companies, reflecting strong product quality, operational reliability, and compliance with international sustainability requirements.

The global rPET market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of approximately 8.9% through 2032, according to the Persistence Market Research, driven by tightening environmental regulation, mandatory recycled content targets in Europe and other developed markets, and increasing corporate sustainability commitments from multinational brands. As global buyers seek diversified, resilient, and traceable supply chains, scalable rPET producers with consistent quality standards are well positioned to capture long-term structural demand.

Polysmart operates at the intersection of advanced manufacturing and environmental sustainability. By strengthening partnerships across the waste collection ecosystem and converting plastic waste into high-quality resins and flakes, the Company enhances recycled supply chains and supports global brands in achieving recycled content and carbon reduction targets. Its progressively integrated model enhances traceability, product consistency, and supply reliability – key differentiators in international rPET markets.

The equity investment marks an important milestone in Polysmart’s institutionalization and growth trajectory. Verdant IMAP acted as exclusive financial advisor to Polysmart on the transaction. This deal reinforces Verdant’s commitment to supporting globally relevant, climate-aligned industrial businesses across Africa.

– on behalf of Verdant Capital.

Media contacts:
Verdant IMAP
Orient Mahonisi
T: +27 10 140 3700
E: orient.mahonisi@verdant-cap.com

About Verdant IMAP: 
Verdant IMAP is a leading pan-African investment bank specialising in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and private capital markets. Combining international investment banking experience with a deep understanding of local markets, Verdant IMAP helps clients access global capital and strategic partnerships to drive growth and transformation across the continent. Verdant IMAP is the IMAP partner firm for its region. IMAP is a global M&A partnership with over 600 professionals across 51 countries and is consistently ranked among the top 5 advisors worldwide for mid-market transactions. www.Verdant-Cap.com

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SA sends condolences to Nigeria after fatal maritime incident

Source: Government of South Africa

SA sends condolences to Nigeria after fatal maritime incident

The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, and the Transport Deputy Minister, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, have expressed their condolences to the bereaved family after one person died at sea and five crew members went missing, following the sinking of the MW Leo vessel near Mossel Bay.

The vessel had a total of 18 crew members on board, all confirmed to be Nigerian nationals. 

Twelve crew members have since been rescued alive. One body has been recovered, with five crew members still missing.

“Creecy and Hlengwa have expressed their pain and condolences to High Commissioner Tope Ajayi, who is grappling with this maritime incident, and emphasized the urgent need to find the missing crew members. They have also expressed messages of support to the families whose loved ones are still missing at sea,” the Department of Transport said on Monday.

The MW Leo, registered under the Comoros flag, transmitted a distress signal reporting uncontrolled water ingress on the evening of 28 February 2026. 

At the time, the vessel was approximately 80 nautical miles south of Mossel Bay, on a single voyage from Durban to Nigeria. 

The vessel is owned by Nigerian company Magnet Energy Limited, based in Lagos.

The crew reportedly abandoned ship onto the vessel’s life rafts, and the vessel subsequently sank in the early hours of 1 March 2026.

The South African Maritime Authority (SAMSA) has initiated a preliminary investigation.

The incident is being coordinated by the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Cape Town.

The Federal Republic of Nigeria’s High Commissioner, HE Tope Ajayi, is kept abreast of the developments on an ongoing basis. –SAnews.gov.za

 

 

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Africa’s Business Heroes lance sa 8e édition avec 1,5 million de dollars de subventions disponibles pour les entrepreneurs africains

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) (www.AfricaBusinessHeroes.org), l’initiative philanthropique phare d’Alibaba Philanthropy et de la Jack Ma Foundation, a ouvert les dépôts de candidatures pour sa 8e édition, faisant appel aux entrepreneurs africains qui créent des entreprises définissant l’avenir du continent.

Lancée sous le thème « Définir l’avenir de l’Afrique dès aujourd’hui », l’édition 2026 renforce le rôle d’ABH en tant que plateforme centrée sur les fondateurs, soutenant les solutions africaines qui ont l’ambition, l’envergure et la substance nécessaires pour mener une transformation économique durable.

Partout en Afrique, des entrepreneurs relèvent des défis concrets grâce à des solutions audacieuses et novatrices : l’agriculture intelligente face au climat, finance numérique, santé, logistique, industrie et technologies émergentes. Africa’s Business Heroes s’engage à identifier ces fondateurs, à accélérer leur développement et à mettre en exergue leurs parcours pour inspirer et façonner l’avenir de l’Afrique.

« L’avenir de l’Afrique est façonné par des entrepreneurs qui s’attaquent aux défis les plus pressants du continent et libèrent son potentiel économique », a déclaré Zahra Boateng-Baitie, directrice générale d’Africa’s Business Heroes pour l’Afrique. « Au-delà des 1,5 million de dollars de subventions, ABH est une plateforme transformationnelle qui offre aux fondateurs la visibilité, le mentorat et le soutien stratégique dont ils ont besoin pour développer des entreprises durables. Notre engagement est de veiller à ce que les entrepreneurs soient à la fois reconnus et habilités à créer des entreprises qui génèrent des emplois, stimulent l’innovation et favorisent une croissance inclusive dans toute l’Afrique. »

En 2026, ABH renforcera son engagement sur le terrain à travers le continent en visitant dix marchés africains. Conformément à son engagement à être véritablement panafricain et inclusif, le programme donnera la priorité aux pays qui ont été sous-représentés parmi ses 10 finalistes à ce jour, notamment la Namibie, la Tunisie et la Zambie. Ces visites rassembleront des entrepreneurs locaux, des partenaires de l’écosystème et des investisseurs à travers des événements de renforcement communautaire, des ateliers et des engagements personnalisés avec les fondateurs, renforçant ainsi les écosystèmes locaux et élargissant l’accès à la plateforme ABH.  

De plus, cette année, ABH élargira son panel de lauréats en annonçant les 100 finalistes plutôt que les 50 finalistes. Cela reflète à la fois la demande et l’intérêt croissants pour le concours et l’ambition d’ABH de mettre en avant un éventail plus large d’entreprises africaines innovantes et inspirantes. Depuis 2019, le nombre de candidatures est passé d’environ 10 000 à plus de 30 000 par an. En récompensant davantage de fondateurs à fort potentiel, ABH vise à renforcer son impact, à offrir une plus grande visibilité aux entrepreneurs émergents et à consolider son rôle de plateforme de premier plan célébrant la prochaine génération de chefs d’entreprise africains.

Plus qu’un simple concours

Aujourd’hui dans sa huitième année, Africa’s Business Heroes a évolué au-delà d’un simple concours pour devenir l’une des plateformes d’entrepreneuriat les plus respectées du continent. Le programme combine des subventions avec des formations, du mentorat et un soutien communautaire à long terme, permettant aux entrepreneurs de créer des entreprises conçues pour durer.

Chaque année, ABH attribue 1,5 million de dollars de subventions à dix entrepreneurs exceptionnels. Les héros présélectionnés ont également accès à des programmes de renforcement des capacités et rejoignent un réseau panafricain en pleine expansion composé de pairs, d’investisseurs et de leaders de l’écosystème.

Les anciens finalistes du Top 10 ont également la possibilité de participer à une expérience d’apprentissage immersive entièrement sponsorisée sur le campus d’Alibaba à Hangzhou, en Chine. Le programme permet aux entrepreneurs de se rencontrer, de s’engager directement dans l’écosystème Alibaba et de se familiariser avec les bonnes pratiques mondiales en matière d’innovation, de transformation numérique et de développement des entreprises technologiques. La dernière cohorte des anciens finalistes du Top 10 se rendra à Hangzhou en septembre 2026.

Une plateforme reconnue pour les entrepreneurs africains

La 7e édition du concours Africa’s Business Heroes s’est achevée en décembre 2025 avec la nomination de Diana Orembe, cofondatrice et PDG de NovFeed, en Tanzanie, au titre d’Africa’s Business Hero. Son entreprise de biotechnologie transforme les déchets organiques en protéines durables pour l’alimentation animale, répondant ainsi aux défis de la sécurité alimentaire et de la durabilité environnementale à travers l’Afrique.

« Remporter le prix Africa’s Business Heroes a été une véritable transformation pour NovFeed », a déclaré Diana Orembe. « Le financement va accélérer notre croissance, mais la formation commerciale, la visibilité et le réseau que nous avons acquis grâce au programme ont été tout aussi importants. ABH vous met au défi d’affiner votre vision, de renforcer votre stratégie et d’élargir la portée de votre impact. Il ne s’agit pas seulement de la finale, mais aussi de faire partie d’une communauté engagée dans la construction de l’avenir de l’Afrique. »

L’édition de l’année dernière a attiré plus de 31 000 candidatures provenant de tout le continent et a octroyé 1,5 million de dollars de subventions à dix finalistes représentant sept pays africains, reflétant ainsi la richesse et la diversité du vivier entrepreneurial du continent.

Qui peut postuler ?

Les candidatures sont ouvertes aux fondateurs de toute l’Afrique qui :

  • Sont des citoyens ou des résidents réguliers d’un pays africain ;
  • Dirigent une entreprise enregistrée dont le siège social se trouve en Afrique ;
  • Ont fait preuve d’une activité soutenue pendant au moins trois ans ;
  • Font preuve d’un engagement pour un impact social positif.

ABH est un concours ouvert à tous les secteurs et accueille les candidatures de tous les secteurs essentiels à l’avenir de l’Afrique, notamment : les systèmes alimentaires, le climat et l’énergie, la fintech et l’inclusion financière, la santé, la logistique, la fabrication, l’intelligence artificielle, etc.

Les candidatures sont désormais ouvertes.

Les entrepreneurs qui définissent l’avenir de l’Afrique sont encouragés à postuler. Les candidatures peuvent être soumises en anglais ou en français.  

Le dépôt de candidatures sera clôturé le 28 avril 2026.
Postulez sur : www.AfricaBusinessHeroes.org

Distribué par APO Group pour Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH).

À propos d’Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) :
Africa’s Business Heroes est le programme philanthropique phare d’Alibaba Philanthropy, qui a pour vocation d’identifier, de soutenir et de célébrer la prochaine génération d’entrepreneurs africains. Chaque année, ABH octroie 1,5 million de dollars américains de subventions à des chefs d’entreprise exceptionnels qui ont un impact positif sur leur communauté, tout en leur donnant accès à la formation, au mentorat et à un réseau entrepreneurial panafricain.

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Africa’s Business Heroes Launches 8th Edition with USD 1.5 Million in Grant Funding Available for African Entrepreneurs

Source: APO

Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) (www.AfricaBusinessHeroes.org), the flagship philanthropic initiative of Alibaba Philanthropy and the Jack Ma Foundation, has opened applications for its 8th edition, calling on African entrepreneurs who are building businesses defining the continent’s future.

Launched under the theme “Defining Africa’s Future Today”, the 2026 edition reinforces ABH’s role as a founder-first platform supporting Africa-led solutions with the ambition, scale, and substance to drive lasting economic transformation.

Across the continent, entrepreneurs are solving real problems with bold, innovative solutions—from climate-smart agriculture and digital finance to healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, and emerging technologies. Africa’s Business Heroes is committed to identifying these founders, accelerating their growth, and elevating their stories to inspire and shape Africa’s future.

“Africa’s future is being shaped by entrepreneurs who are addressing the continent’s most pressing challenges and unlocking its economic potential,” said Zahra Boateng-Baitie, Managing Director for Africa at Africa’s Business Heroes. “Beyond the USD 1.5 million in grant funding, ABH is a transformational platform that equips founders with the visibility, mentorship, and strategic support they need to scale sustainable businesses. Our commitment is to ensure that entrepreneurs are both recognised and empowered to build enterprises that create jobs, drive innovation, and fuel inclusive growth across Africa.”

In 2026, ABH will deepen its on-the-ground engagement across the continent by visiting ten African markets. In line with its commitment to being truly pan-African and inclusive. The programme will prioritize countries that have been underrepresented in its Top 10 finalists to date, including Namibia, Tunisia, and Zambia. These visits will bring together local entrepreneurs, ecosystem partners, and investors through community-building events, workshops, and tailored founder engagements—strengthening local ecosystems and expanding access to the ABH platform.

In addition, this year ABH will expand its recognition pool by announcing Top 100 Finalists rather than a Top 50. This reflects both the growing demand and interest in the competition and ABH’s ambition to spotlight a broader range of innovative and inspiring African businesses. Since 2019, applications have grown from approximately 10,000 to over 30,000 annually. By recognising more high-potential founders, ABH aims to deepen its impact, provide greater visibility to emerging entrepreneurs, and strengthen its role as a leading platform celebrating Africa’s next generation of business leaders.

More Than a Competition

Now in its eighth year, Africa’s Business Heroes has evolved beyond a prize competition into one of the continent’s most respected entrepreneurship platforms. The programme combines grant funding with training, mentorship, and long-term community support, enabling entrepreneurs to build businesses designed to last.

Each year, ABH awards USD 1.5 million in grant funding to ten outstanding entrepreneurs. Shortlisted heroes also gain access to capacity-building programmes and join a growing pan-African network of peers, investors, and ecosystem leaders.

Past Top 10 finalists also have the opportunity to participate in a fully sponsored immersive learning experience at Alibaba’s campus in Hangzhou, China. The programme enables entrepreneurs to connect with one another, engage directly with the Alibaba ecosystem, and gain exposure to global best practices in innovation, digital transformation, and scaling technology-enabled businesses. The latest cohort of past Top 10 finalists will travel to Hangzhou in September 2026.

A Proven Platform for African Entrepreneurs

The 7th edition of Africa’s Business Heroes concluded in December 2025 with Diana Orembe of Tanzania, Co Founder and CEO of NovFeed, named Africa’s Business Hero. Her biotech venture transforms organic waste into sustainable protein for animal feed, addressing food security and environmental sustainability challenges across Africa.

“Winning Africa’s Business Heroes was transformative for NovFeed,” said Diana Orembe,“The funding will accelerate our growth, but just as important was the business training, visibility, and network we gained through the programme. ABH challenges you to refine your vision, strengthen your strategy, and think bigger about your impact. It’s not just about the finale, it’s about becoming part of a community committed to building Africa’s future.”

Last year’s edition attracted over 31,000 applications from across the continent and awarded USD 1.5 million in grant funding to ten finalists representing 7 African countries, reflecting the depth and diversity of the continent’s entrepreneurial pipeline.

Who Should Apply

Applications are open to founders from across Africa who:

  • Are citizens or legal residents of an African country
  • Lead a registered business headquartered in Africa
  • Have demonstrated 3 years or more of traction
  • Show a commitment to positive societal impact

ABH is a sector agnostic competition and welcomes applications across all sectors critical to Africa’s future, including: food systems, climate and energy, fintech and financial inclusion, health, logistics, manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and more.

Applications Now Open

Entrepreneurs defining Africa’s future are encouraged to apply. Applications can be submitted in English or French.

Applications close on April 28th 2026.
Apply at: www.AfricaBusinessHeroes.org

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH).

For Press/Media or Partnership Inquires, contact:
pr@africabusinessheroes.org
info@africabusinessheroes.org

About Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH):
Africa’s Business Heroes is the flagship philanthropic programme of Alibaba Philanthropy dedicated to identifying, supporting, and celebrating the next generation of African entrepreneurs. Each year, ABH awards USD 1.5 million in grant funding to outstanding business leaders creating positive impact in their communities, while providing access to training, mentorship, and a pan-African entrepreneurial network.

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President Ramaphosa mourns lives lost in Ormonde building collapse

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to the families of reportedly six people who died when a building collapsed in Ormonde, Johannesburg, earlier today, Monday, 02 March 2026.

The President’s thoughts also go out to survivors, some of whom are still trapped in the rubble of the business park premises.

President Ramaphosa expects an inquiry into the collapse will provide answers to the families of the deceased and to survivors and that such an inquiry will help to prevent a recurrence of a tragedy such as this.

The President also appreciates the urgency with which rescue teams are undertaking their urgent tasks.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

O Secretário de Energia dos Estados Unidos da América (EUA), Chris Wright, retorna ao Powering Africa Summit 2026 para discutir acesso à energia e clean cooking

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O Secretário de Energia dos Estados Unidos, Chris Wright, retornará ao Powering Africa Summit (PAS), que será realizado em Washington, D.C., nos dias 19 e 20 de março de 2026, onde participará de uma conversa especial (fireside chat) com foco em acesso à energia e clean cooking.

Após ter feito o discurso principal e participado de uma conversa especial na 10ª edição comemorativa do PAS 2025, o Secretário Wright voltará a se reunir com formuladores de políticas públicas e líderes do setor na edição deste ano para discutir a cooperação EUA–África em infraestrutura energética, minerais críticos e estratégias de investimento.

Dando continuidade ao tema do ano passado, “O Futuro da Parceria Energética EUA–África”, o PAS 2026 analisará como a política externa dos Estados Unidos está se transformando sob a atual administração, inclusive por meio de uma diplomacia comercial orientada ao investimento.

Sob o tema deste ano, “Impulsionando a Parceria EUA–África: Infraestrutura Energética, Minerais Críticos e Estratégias de Investimento”, será destacada a evolução desde o PAS 2025 e o papel de acordos recíprocos no avanço do desenvolvimento de minerais críticos e no aumento do comércio entre os Estados Unidos e a África.

Algumas das principais sessões do Summit abordarão investimentos em infraestrutura de grande escala, garantias e financiamento, bem como a forma como as estratégias de gás entre os EUA e a África estão fortalecendo a segurança energética e o comércio bilateral. Diversos líderes governamentais de alto nível estarão presentes, incluindo:

  • S.E. Honorável Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Vice-Presidente da Libéria
  • S.E. Honorável Dr. Eng. Habtamu Itefa Geleta, Ministro da Água e Energia, Etiópia
  • S.E. Honorável John Abdulai Jinapor, Ministro da Energia e Transição Verde, Gana

Makhtar Diop, Diretor-Geral da International Finance Corporation (IFC), estará presente para fazer as observações de abertura do Summit, ao lado de Adam Cortese, CEO da empresa especializada em soluções de energia renovável Sun Africa, que fará o discurso de boas-vindas do patrocinador do Summit.

Cortese comentou:
“A Sun Africa tem orgulho de patrocinar o Powering Africa Summit 2026 em um momento transformador para a colaboração energética entre os EUA e a África. A liderança contínua e o engajamento do Secretário Wright reforçam o compromisso crescente com soluções práticas e orientadas ao investimento que ampliam o acesso à energia e desbloqueiam oportunidades em minerais críticos e infraestrutura. Estamos ansiosos por um diá. significativo com ministros, formuladores de políticas e parceiros da indústria para avançar iniciativas ganha-ganha, fundamentadas em pragmatismo e rentabilidade, garantindo um sucesso sustentável e duradouro.”

Outros representantes seniores de organizações, agências e instituições globais de destaque incluem:

  • John Jovanovic, Presidente, U.S. Export-Import Bank (EXIM)
  • Nicholas Checker, Alto Funcionário do Bureau de Assuntos Africanos, Departamento de Estado dos EUA
  • Thomas Hardy, Diretor Adjunto e COO, U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA)
  • Daniel Petrie, Chefe de Gabinete Interino, Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC)
  • Nancy Rivera, Diretora Executiva, U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC)

Simon Gosling, Diretor-Geral da EnergyNet, comentou:
“Estamos muito satisfeitos em retornar a Washington, D.C., no próximo mês para a 11ª edição do Powering Africa Summit e, naturalmente, em receber novamente o Secretário de Energia Chris Wright para dialogar com stakeholders sobre o futuro das relações EUA–África. No Summit do ano passado, o Secretário destacou a abordagem integrada de todo o governo dos EUA na parceria com as nações africanas, e estamos satisfeitos em confirmar uma representação ampla e de alto nível dos Departamentos de Estado, Energia, EXIM, DFC, MCC e Comércio para oferecer insights essenciais sobre as políticas da Administração Trump…”

Ao lado da patrocinadora do Summit, Sun Africa, a Petrodex participa como Patrocinadora Principal, a Genesis Energy como Patrocinadora do Aplicativo de Networking e o Lagos State Office of Works como Parceiro Governamental Africano. Outros patrocinadores incluem Endeavor Energy, Denham Capital, Mission 300 e HYDRO-LINK. Entre os Patrocinadores Associados estão Absa, Alliant, Allied Talent Partners, A&O Shearman, Nant Power, NRECA International e McDermott, Will & Schulte.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para EnergyNet Ltd..

Para oportunidades de parceria, entre em contato:
Poliana Sperandio
Poliana@EnergyNet.co.uk

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Le Secrétaire américain à l’Énergie, Chris Wright, de retour au Powering Africa Summit 2026 pour discuter de l’accès à l’énergie et de la cuisson propre

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Secrétaire américain à l’Énergie, Chris Wright, participera de nouveau au Powering Africa Summit (PAS), qui se tiendra à Washington, D.C., les 19 et 20 mars 2026, où il prendra part à une discussion au coin du feu consacrée à l’accès à l’énergie et à la cuisson propre.

Après avoir prononcé un discours d’ouverture et participé à un panel lors de la 10e édition anniversaire du PAS 2025, le Secrétaire Wright rejoindra à nouveau les décideurs politiques et les dirigeants de l’industrie lors du Sommet de cette année afin d’évoquer la coopération États-Unis–Afrique en matière d’infrastructures énergétiques, de minerais critiques et de stratégies d’investissement.

Dans la continuité du thème de l’an dernier, « L’avenir du partenariat énergétique États-Unis–Afrique », le PAS 2026 analysera l’évolution de la politique étrangère américaine sous l’administration actuelle, notamment à travers une diplomatie commerciale axée sur l’investissement.

Sous le thème de cette année, « Dynamiser le partenariat États-Unis–Afrique : infrastructures énergétiques, minerais critiques et stratégies d’investissement », l’accent sera mis sur les progrès accomplis depuis le PAS 2025 ainsi que sur le rôle des accords réciproques dans l’avancement du développement des minerais critiques et l’augmentation des échanges commerciaux entre les États-Unis et l’Afrique.

Parmi les principales thematiques du Sommet figureront des discussions sur les investissements dans les infrastructures à grande échelle, les garanties et les mécanismes de financement, ainsi que sur la manière dont les stratégies gazières entre les États-Unis et l’Afrique renforcent la sécurité énergétique et le commerce bilatéral. Plusieurs hauts responsables gouvernementaux sont attendus, notamment :

  • S.E. l’Honorable Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Vice-Président du Libéria
  • S.E. l’Honorable Dr Eng. Habtamu Itefa Geleta, Ministre de l’Eau et de l’Énergie, Éthiopie
  • S.E. l’Honorable John Abdulai Jinapor, Ministre de l’Énergie et de la Transition Verte, Ghana

Makhtar Diop, Directeur général de la Société financière internationale (IFC), sera présent pour prononcer les remarques d’ouverture du Sommet, aux côtés d’Adam Cortese, Directeur général du spécialiste des solutions d’énergie renouvelable Sun Africa, qui prononcera l’allocution d’accueil du sponsor du Sommet.

Adam Cortese a déclaré :
« Sun Africa est fière de sponsoriser le Powering Africa Summit 2026 à un moment charnière pour la collaboration énergétique entre les États-Unis et l’Afrique. Le leadership et l’engagement continus du Secrétaire Wright témoignent d’un engagement croissant en faveur de solutions concrètes et axées sur l’investissement, capables d’élargir l’accès à l’énergie et de libérer des opportunités dans les minerais critiques et les infrastructures. Nous nous réjouissons d’un dialogue constructif avec les ministres, les décideurs politiques et les partenaires industriels afin de faire avancer des initiatives gagnant-gagnant, fondées sur le pragmatisme et la rentabilité, garantissant un succès durable à long terme. »

Parmi les autres représentants de haut niveau issus d’organisations, d’agences et d’institutions internationales de premier plan figurent :

  • John Jovanovic, Président, Banque d’export-import des États-Unis (EXIM)
  • Nicholas Checker, Haut responsable du Bureau des affaires africaines, Département d’État des États-Unis
  • Thomas Hardy, Directeur adjoint et COO, U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA)
  • Daniel Petrie, Chef de cabinet par intérim, Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC)
  • Nancy Rivera, Directrice générale, U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC)

Simon Gosling, Directeur général d’EnergyNet, a commenté :
« Nous sommes ravis de revenir à Washington D.C. le mois prochain pour la 11e édition du Powering Africa Summit et d’accueillir à nouveau le Secrétaire à l’Énergie Chris Wright afin qu’il échange avec les parties prenantes sur l’avenir des relations États-Unis–Afrique. Lors du Sommet de l’an dernier, le Secrétaire a évoqué l’approche globale de l’administration américaine en matière de partenariat avec les nations africaines, et nous sommes heureux d’avoir confirmé une représentation aussi large et de haut niveau provenant des départements d’État, de l’Énergie, d’EXIM, de la DFC, du MCC et du Commerce pour apporter des éclairages essentiels sur les politiques de l’administration Trump… »

Aux côtés du Sponsor du Sommet Sun Africa, Petrodex rejoint l’événement en tant que Sponsor principal, Genesis Energy en tant que Sponsor de l’application de networking, et le Lagos State Office of Works en tant que Partenaire gouvernemental africain. Parmi les autres sponsors figurent Endeavor Energy, Denham Capital, Mission 300 et HYDRO-LINK. Les Sponsors associés incluent Absa, Alliant, Allied Talent Partners, A&O Shearman, Nant Power, NRECA International et McDermott, Will & Schulte.  

Distribué par APO Group pour EnergyNet Ltd..

Pour toute demande d’opportunités de partenariat, veuillez contacter :
Poliana Sperandio
Poliana@EnergyNet.co.uk

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United States (U.S.) Secretary of Energy Chris Wright is back to Powering Africa Summit 2026 to discuss energy access and clean cooking

Source: APO – Report:

U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright will return to Powering Africa Summit (PAS), taking place in Washington, D.C. on 19-20 March 2026, where he will take part in a fireside chat focused on energy access and clean cooking.

Having provided a keynote address and participated in a fireside chat at the 10th anniversary PAS 2025, Secretary Wright will again join policymakers and industry leaders at this year’s Summit to discuss US-Africa cooperation across energy infrastructure, critical minerals and investment strategies.

Building on last year’s focus, ‘The Future of the US & Africa Energy Partnership’, PAS 2026 will analyse how US foreign policy is transforming under the current administration, including through investment-led commercial diplomacy.

Within this year’s theme, ‘Powering the US-Africa Partnership: Energy Infrastructure, Critical Minerals & Investment Strategies’, a spotlight will be shone on progress since PAS 2025, and the role of reciprocal agreements in advancing critical minerals development and increasing trade between the US and Africa.

Some of the Summit’s key sessions will explore large scale infrastructure investment, guarantees and financing, and how gas strategies between the US and Africa are increasing energy security and bilateral trade, with several senior government leaders set to attend, including:

  • H.E. Honourable Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Vice President, Liberia
  • H.E. Honourable Dr. Eng. Habtamu Itefa Geleta, Minister of Water & Energy, Ethiopia
  • H.E. Honourable John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister for Energy & Green Transition, Ghana

Makhtar Diop, Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), will be in attendance to provide welcome remarks at the summit, alongside Adam Cortese – CEO of renewable energy solutions specialist Sun Africa – who will provide the summit sponsor welcome address.

Cortese commented: “Sun Africa is proud to sponsor the Powering Africa Summit 2026 at this transformative time for US-Africa energy collaboration. Secretary Wright’s continued leadership and engagement underscore the growing commitment to practical, investment-driven solutions that expand energy access and unlock opportunities in critical minerals and infrastructure. We look forward to meaningful dialogue with ministers, policymakers, and industry partners to advance win-win initiatives grounded in pragmatism and profitability, ensuring sustainable success that will withstand the test of time.”

Senior representatives from other leading global organisations, agencies and institutions include:

  • John Jovanovic, Chairman, U.S. Export-Import Bank (EXIM)
  • Nicholas Checker, Senior Bureau Official, Bureau of African Affairs, U.S. Department of State
  • Thomas Hardy, Deputy Director & COO, U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA)
  • Daniel Petrie, Acting Chief of Staff, Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC)
  • Nancy Rivera, MD, U.S. International Development Finance Group (DFC)

Simon Gosling, Managing Director of EnergyNet, commented: “We’re delighted to be back for the 11th Powering Africa summit in Washington DC next month, and of course to be welcoming Energy Secretary Chris Wright back to the Summit to meet with stakeholders and to discuss the future of US/Africa relations. At last year’s Summit the Secretary talked about America’s [all of government approach] to partnering with African nations, and we’re pleased to have confirmed such a broad, high level representation from across State, Energy, Exim, DFC, MCC and Commerce to provide those necessary insights into the Trump Administration policies…”

Alongside Summit Sponsor Sun Africa, Petrodex joins as the Lead Sponsor, Genesis Energy as the Networking App Sponsor, and Lagos State Office of Works as the African Government Partner. Other sponsors include Endeavor Energy, Denham Capital, Mission 300 and HYDRO-LINK. Associate Sponsors include Absa, Alliant, Allied Talent Partners, A&O Shearman, Nant Power, NRECA International and McDermott, Will & Schulte.

– on behalf of EnergyNet Ltd..

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