Category: Africa

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Levene Energy assegura uma Linha de Crédito de 64 milhões de Dólares do Afreximbank para Adquirir Participação Estratégica na Axxela Limited

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) concedeu uma Linha de Crédito no valor de 64 milhões de dólares ao Levene Energy Development Limited. A linha de crédito apoia o compromisso de capital do Levene Energy com a Bluecore Gas Infraco Limited (a “Adquirente”) para a aquisição de uma participação de 30% do capital da Axxela Limited, uma das principais empresas de infra-estruturas de gás e energia da África Ocidental.

Esta transacção histórica proporciona ao Levene Energy entrada directa nos sectores regulamentados a nível intermédio e a jusante do gás da Nigéria. Representa uma diversificação significativa da sua actividade principal de comercialização de petróleo e produtos petrolíferos refinados para receitas estáveis e de longo prazo apoiadas em infra-estruturas, reflectindo o objectivo do Levene Energy de fazer a transição para uma empresa de energia totalmente integrada com fluxos de receitas recorrentes ancorados em activos apoiados em infra-estruturas.

Para além do seu significado comercial, o investimento apoia os objectivos regionais de transição energética, expandindo o acesso ao gás natural. A Axxela está estrategicamente posicionada para liderar a transição energética da Nigéria através dos seus investimentos em infra-estruturas de gás, produção de energia e soluções de energias mais limpas. Com um conjunto de projectos robusto, fortes parcerias regionais e um modelo de negócio reestruturado, a Axxela está bem equipada para garantir um crescimento sustentável e aprofundar o seu impacto no panorama energético da África Ocidental.

Ao comentar sobre o financiamento, o Vice-Presidente Executivo do Afreximbank para a Banca Comercial Global, Sr. Haytham Elmaayergi, destacou a importância da transacção, que está alinhada com as prioridades estratégicas de financiamento do Afreximbank no âmbito dos seus pilares de Liderança na Banca Comercial Global, Comércio Intra-Africano e Industrialização. “A nossa principal força reside nas parcerias estratégicas que estabelecemos com os principais intervenientes africanos. Este acordo reflecte o compromisso do Banco em promover o investimento do sector privado em infra-estruturas críticas, promovendo a segurança energética em toda África e reforçando as cadeias de valor regionais no sector do petróleo e gás. Ao apoiar a iniciativa estratégica do Levene Energy no domínio das infra-estruturas de gás, estamos a apoiar a transição crítica para fontes de energia mais limpas, melhorando a segurança energética regional e reforçando as cadeias de valor intra-africanas.”

Comentando sobre a aquisição, o Responsável pelo Desenvolvimento Corporativo do Levene Energy, Sr. Sam Aofolaju, observou que a linha de crédito do Afreximbank é um catalisador para o foco estratégico de crescimento do Levene Energy, que vai além do comércio de commodities (produtos de base) para as energias renováveis (energia solar) e agora para a espinha dorsal da infra-estrutura de gás e energia da África Ocidental – um pilar essencial da transição para as energias limpas no continente. O financiamento do Afreximbank não só valida a nossa visão, como sublinha a nossa convicção comum de que infra-estruturas resilientes e de propriedade local constituem a base para um desenvolvimento económico duradouro em toda África.

A parceria entre o Afreximbank e o Levene Energy remonta ao ano de 2019, tendo iniciado com linhas de crédito para o financiamento do comércio. Desde então, evoluiu para uma colaboração estratégica que apoia a transformação do Levene de um operador a jusante para um importante comerciante pan-africano e, agora, um investidor em infra-estruturas de gás.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Afreximbank.

Contacto para a Imprensa do Afreximbank:
Vincent Musumba
Gestor de Comunicações e Eventos (Relações com a Imprensa)
Correio Electrónico: press@afreximbank.com

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Sobre o Afreximbank:
O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) é uma instituição financeira multilateral pan-africana com mandato para financiar e promover o comércio intra e extra-africano. Há mais de 30 anos que o Banco utiliza estruturas inovadoras para oferecer soluções de financiamento que apoiam a transformação da estrutura do comércio africano, acelerando a industrialização e o comércio intra-regional, impulsionando assim a expansão económica em África. Apoiante firme do Acordo de Comércio Livre Continental Africano (ACLCA), o Afreximbank lançou um Sistema Pan-Africano de Pagamento e Liquidação (PAPSS) que foi adoptado pela União Africana (UA) como plataforma de pagamento e liquidação para sustentar a implementação da ZCLCA. Em colaboração com o Secretariado da ZCLCA e a UA, o Banco criou um Fundo de Ajustamento de 10 mil milhões de dólares para apoiar os países que participam de forma efectiva na ZCLCA. No final de Dezembro de 2024, o total de activos e contingências do Afreximbank ascendia a mais de 40,1 mil milhões de dólares e os seus fundos de accionistas a 7,2 mil milhões de dólares. O Afreximbank tem notações de grau de investimento atribuídas pela GCR (escala internacional) (A), Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) e Fitch (BBB-). O Afreximbank evoluiu para uma entidade de grupo que inclui o Banco, a sua subsidiária de fundo de impacto de acções, denominada Fundo para o Desenvolvimento das Exportações em África (FEDA), e a sua subsidiária de gestão de seguros, AfrexInsure (em conjunto, “o Grupo”). O Banco tem a sua sede em Cairo, Egipto.

Para mais informações, visite: www.Afreximbank.com.

Sobre o Levene Energy Group:
O Levene Energy Group é uma empresa global de energia de origem africana, comprometida em fornecer soluções integradas em toda a cadeia de valor do petróleo, gás e energias renováveis. Fundada com a visão de impulsionar o crescimento industrial de África, o Levene evoluiu de uma empresa líder no comércio de commodities (produtos de base) para uma empresa diversificada no sector energético, com operações que abrangem o comércio, serviços a montante, engenharia e desenvolvimento de energias limpas.

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Moçambique implementa e expande programa para reforçar adaptação climática

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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Moçambique, um dos países mais vulneráveis às alterações climáticas em África, enfrenta desafios estruturais agravados por choques económicos, conflitos e fenómenos meteorológicos extremos.  

Para responder a estes riscos e proteger os ganhos de desenvolvimento, o país tem apostado num modelo descentralizado de adaptação climática, integrando o financiamento climático nos sistemas nacionais e locais de planeamento e orçamento. 

Programa LoCAL apoia adaptação climática

O Governo de Moçambique, com apoio do Fundo de Desenvolvimento de Capital das Nações Unidas, Uncdf, implementou o programa “Local Climate Adaptive Living Facility”, LoCAL, com o objetivo melhorar a resiliência climática reforçando o acesso dos governos locais a financiamento baseado no desempenho.  

O LoCAL foi lançado em 2014 como um programa de financiamento climático concebido pelo Uncdf e implementado em Moçambique através dos Ministérios da Economia e Finanças e da Terra e Ambiente.

O programa opera atualmente em sete províncias, Gaza, Inhambane, Nampula, Niassa, Zambézia, Cabo Delgado e Sofala, e tem como objetivo melhorar a resiliência climática reforçando o acesso dos governos locais a financiamento baseado no desempenho. 

O LoCAL utiliza subvenções de resiliência climática baseadas no desempenho, integradas nos processos existentes de planeamento, orçamentação e investimento a nível local.  

Para aceder aos fundos, as autoridades subnacionais devem cumprir critérios mínimos, incluindo avaliações de risco climático e a integração da adaptação climática nos planos de desenvolvimento de forma participativa e sensível ao género. 

Resultados e impacto em comunidades vulneráveis 

Até 2024, o programa beneficiou diretamente mais de 3 milhões de pessoas através da implementação de mais de 100 projetos de infraestruturas adaptadas ao clima, incluindo centros de saúde, maternidades, escolas, sistemas de abastecimento de água e unidades de dessalinização.  

Cerca de 65% dos projetos foram selecionados por mulheres, e a participação comunitária contribuiu para a criação de emprego local e para o reforço dos meios de subsistência resilientes.

Em resposta aos resultados alcançados, o Governo solicitou em 2022 a expansão do LoCAL a nível nacional. Até 2024, o programa abrangia 54 dos 154 distritos e 7 dos 65 municípios do país, com atividades de planeamento da adaptação climática em nove das 11 províncias.  

Mais de US$ 30 milhões foram mobilizados em subvenções baseadas no desempenho e no reforço de capacidades, contribuindo para a institucionalização da adaptação climática e para o fortalecimento da governação descentralizada. 

Integração nos sistemas nacionais de planeamento e finanças públicas

O LoCAL apoia os ciclos anuais de planeamento e orçamento dos governos locais através dos sistemas fiscais existentes, com avaliações de desempenho que orientam a alocação futura de recursos e o apoio técnico. 

Um sistema de monitorização e avaliação permite que as lições aprendidas a nível local informem políticas nacionais, promovendo a integração das considerações climáticas em todas as fases da gestão das finanças públicas. 

A experiência de Moçambique com o LoCAL é um caso da transformação de vulnerabilidades climáticas em oportunidades de desenvolvimento. 

Apresenta um modelo escalável de financiamento climático descentralizado, assente na liderança comunitária, em critérios de desempenho e no alinhamento com os sistemas nacionais, reforçando a capacidade do país para enfrentar riscos climáticos e apoiar o desenvolvimento local.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para UN News.

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Umalusi reassures public of integrity of 2025 matric exam results

Source: Government of South Africa

Umalusi reassures public of integrity of 2025 matric exam results

Umalusi has reassured the public that the integrity of the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) results is intact, despite a confirmed leak affecting 40 learners across three subjects.

Umalusi [Council for Quality Assurance in General and Further Education and Training in South Africa] CEO, Dr Mafu Rakometsi, said following extensive quality assurance processes and an independent investigation, the quality council can assure South Africans that they can trust that the results reflect learners’ genuine performance.

“We want to assure the public that the breach was localised and therefore cannot dent the overall credibility of the 2025 NSC results,” Rakometsi said on Friday. 

Rakometsi addressed the media regarding the exams conducted by the Department of Basic Education (DBE), the Independent Examinations Board (IEB), the South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute (SACAI), and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).

The CEO outlined the comprehensive quality assurance framework applied to all examinations it oversees. 

This involves moderating question papers and school assessments, auditing examination readiness, monitoring writing at selected centres, participating in marking discussions, verifying marking quality in certain subjects, and standardising marks across over 300 subjects.

Rakometsi said the Assessment Standards Committee (ASC) of Umalusi standardised the 2025 external examination results between 18 December 2025 and 5 January 2026.

“The 15-member committee spent considerable time carefully analysing numerical data and narrative reports to arrive at standardisation decisions by way of consensus for each one of the over 300 subjects presented,” the CEO explained.

In addition, observers from 11 national and international organisations also scrutinised the process. 

Their message, Umalusi reported, was that while systems differ, “the quality assurance processes converge around the need to ensure the highest credibility and integrity of the certificates issued.”

Exam leaks 

On 11 December 2025, the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, informed the nation of a breach involving mathematics Papers 1 and 2, physical sciences Papers 1 and 2, and English home language Papers 1 to 3. 

A National Investigation Task Team (NITT) of nine members, with Umalusi as observer, was appointed to investigate. 

The NITT’s report was presented to Umalusi’s Executive Committee on 6 January 2026.

“The overall conclusion of the investigation is that the leak was limited to the three subjects or seven papers… and that the leak was contained to around 40 candidates in seven examination centres in the Pretoria area,” Rakometsi said.

“While the number of implicated learners currently stands at around 40, there will be consequences for anyone who is not included in the number now, should they be discovered later.”

The CEO commended the Department of Basic Education (DBE) for its quick action but expressed concern over ongoing irregularities like group copying, highlighting that some provinces frequently appear in reports of these issues.

He called on provincial departments and private assessment bodies “to tighten their systems to protect the overall credibility of the examinations”.

Umalusi reminded learners that the law empowers it to cancel certificates if irregularities are discovered later. 

“If you cheated in this examination and you are found out later, you will have to return the certificate, failing which you will be imprisoned,” said Rakometsi.

The council condemned practices like gatekeeping, which prevent learners from writing certain subjects so that schools can improve pass rates. He praised interventions by the DBE to curtail this.

Social ills

Umalusi expressed regret that some candidates fell victim to social ills, such as rape and robbery, during the examination period. 

It urged community members and relevant authorities to support all victims in whatever way possible.

Umalusi chairperson, Professor Yunus Ballim, has approved the release of the 2025 end-of-year exam results, stating there were “no systemic irregularities” affecting exam integrity. 

Over one million candidates sat for exams in more than 300 subjects at approximately 9 400 centres, with the NSC accounting for 90.3% of those, or around 927 000 candidates.

Ballim noted a high acceptance of raw marks, indicating a stable system.

“When we accept a larger proportion of raw results, that points to a system that is settled, doing reasonably well.”

In a heartfelt message to the Class of 2025, the Professor acknowledged all participants in a “large and complex” system that meticulously processes over a million scripts, ensuring the integrity of the process is maintained.

He also took the time to encourage those who failed and pleaded with them not to give up. 

“Work harder, and you will do better in this year’s examinations.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile

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Levene Energy obtient une facilité de 64 millions de dollars US auprès d’Afreximbank pour l’acquisition d’une participation stratégique dans Axxela Limited

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) a accordé une facilité de financement d’acquisition de 64 millions de dollars US à Levene Energy Development Limited. Cette facilité soutient l’engagement de Levene Energy dans le capital de Bluecore Gas Infraco Limited (l’« Acquéreur ») et lui permet l’acquisition d’une participation de 30 % dans Axxela Limited, l’une des principales sociétés d’infrastructures gazières et électriques d’Afrique de l’Ouest.

Cette transaction historique permet à Levene Energy d’entrer directement dans les secteurs gaziers réglementés du transport et de la distribution  au Nigeria. Elle marque une diversification importante de son activité principale de négoce de pétrole et de ses produits pétroliers raffinés vers des revenus stables et à long terme, adossés à des infrastructures, reflétant ainsi l’objectif de Levene Energy de devenir une société énergétique entièrement intégrée avec des flux de revenus récurrents, ancrés dans des actifs adossés à des infrastructures.

Au-delà de son importance commerciale, l’investissement soutient les objectifs régionaux de transition énergétique en élargissant l’accès au gaz naturel. Axxela est stratégiquement positionnée pour mener la transition énergétique du Nigeria grâce à ses investissements dans les infrastructures gazières, la production d’électricité et les solutions énergétiques plus propres. Avec une solide réserve de projets, des partenariats régionaux forts et un modèle d’entreprise restructuré, Axxela est bien outillée pour assurer une croissance durable et renforcer son impact sur le paysage énergétique de l’Afrique de l’Ouest.

Revenant sur ce financement, le Vice-Président Exécutif d’Afreximbank en charge de la Global Trade Bank, M. Haytham Elmaayergi, a souligné l’importance de la transaction, qui est alignée sur les priorités stratégiques de financement d’Afreximbank dans le cadre de ses piliers de Leadership en matière de Banque Commerciale Mondiale, Commerce Intra-Africain, et Industrialisation. «Notre force principale réside dans les partenariats stratégiques que nous nouons avec les champions africains. Cet accord reflète l’engagement de la Banque à promouvoir les investissements du secteur privé dans les infrastructures essentielles, à favoriser la sécurité énergétique en Afrique et à renforcer les chaînes de valeur régionales dans les domaines du pétrole et du gaz. En soutenant la stratégie de Levene Energy dans le domaine des infrastructures gazières, nous soutenons la transition critique vers des sources d’énergie plus propres, nous renforçons la sécurité énergétique régionale et nous consolidons les chaînes de valeur intra-africaines».

Commentant cette acquisition, M. Sam Aofolaju, Directeur de Levene Energy, en charge du développement institutionnel a souligné que le soutien d’Afreximbank est un catalyseur pour la stratégie de croissance de Levene Energy qui, au-delà du commerce de matières premières, s’étend désormais vers les énergies renouvelables (solaire) et devient un pilier essentiel des infrastructures gazières et électriques de l’Afrique de l’Ouest – un élément fondamental de la transition énergétique propre du continent. Ce financement d’Afreximbank non seulement confirme notre vision, mais souligne également notre conviction commune que des infrastructures résilientes et gérées localement sont le fondement d’un développement économique durable en Afrique.

Ce partenariat entre Afreximbank et Levene Energy remonte à 2019 et a commencé par des facilités de financement du commerce. La coopération a depuis lors évolué vers une collaboration stratégique permettant ainsi à Levene de passer d’un simple opérateur en un négociant panafricain majeur et actuellement, en un investisseur dans l’infrastructure gazière.

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

Contact Presse d’Afreximbank:
Vincent Musumba
Responsable de la communication et des événements (relations avec les médias)
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 plus d’informations, veuillez visiter : www.Afreximbank.com

À propos de Levene Energy Group :
Levene Energy Group est une entreprise énergétique mondiale d’origine africaine qui s’est engagée à fournir des solutions intégrées tout au long de la chaîne de valeur du pétrole, du gaz et des énergies renouvelables. Fondée dans le but de stimuler la croissance industrielle de l’Afrique, Levene est passée du statut de négociant en matières premières à celui d’acteur diversifié dans le domaine de l’énergie, avec des activités couvrant le négoce, les services en amont, l’ingénierie et le développement d’énergies propres.

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Diamond Plus and Diamond Sponsors Unite at Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) 2026 to Advance Libya’s Upstream Investment Agenda

Source: APO


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Assail Drilling Company (a Diamond Plus sponsor) and TotalEnergies, ConocoPhillips, Repsol, OMV and Eni (Diamond sponsors) will participate in the Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) 2026 at the highest level, reaffirming strong international and domestic backing for Libya’s upstream growth strategy as the country targets oil production of 2 million barrels per day (bpd). 

Assail Drilling’s participation underscores the critical role of local drilling and services capacity in Libya’s upstream expansion. The company continues to scale operations across key producing assets, strengthening drilling capacity while supporting workforce development, safety standards and technical training across Libya’s oil and gas sector. 

Recent developments across international energy company portfolios highlight Libya’s near-term production upside. In late 2025, OMV (https://apo-opa.co/4pzKPfz) announced a major discovery at the B1-106/4 well in the Sirte Basin (https://apo-opa.co/45JMnwq), with test flows exceeding 4,200 barrels per day (bpd) of oil and 2.6 million cubic feet per day of gas. Estimated recoverable volumes at the Essar prospect range between 15 and 42 million barrels of oil equivalent. OMV is engaging with the National Oil Corporation (NOC) to lift force majeure in several contract areas and advance new seismic acquisition and drilling programs in early 2026. 

Reaffirming its long-term commitment to Libya’s evolving energy landscape through a multi-energy strategy spanning upstream growth, gas development and decarbonization, TotalEnergies (https://apo-opa.co/456JWnE) has worked to support the country’s ambitions to lift output, strengthen energy security and attract international capital. In 2025, the company advanced record-setting production across the Waha concessions, progressed restart plans at Mabruk, expanded exploration in the Murzuq Basin and evaluated large-scale solar capacity near Misrata alongside low-carbon solutions such as methane detection technologies. 

Underscoring its strategic role in advancing Libya’s long-term production growth and investment framework, ConocoPhillips (https://apo-opa.co/4svMbuv) has deepened engagement with the NOC through high-level negotiations aimed at securing competitive fiscal and operational terms to unlock multi-billion-dollar developments. As part of its interests in Waha, ConocoPhillips is prioritizing large-scale projects such as North Gialo 6J and NC-98, as well as drilling, gas integration and operational readiness initiatives designed to support Libya’s ambition of reaching 2 million bpd by the end of the decade. 

Repsol (https://apo-opa.co/49Le5eJ) has accelerated its upstream activity in Libya, lifting operated production to around 307,000 bpd and targeting 350,000 bpd by year-end. The company is executing a nine-well drilling campaign in the Murzuq Basin while advancing gas flaring reduction initiatives and an LPG project in Ubari to improve domestic energy access. Production at the El Sharara field has also exceeded 300,000 bpd for the first time since 2019, reinforcing Repsol’s growing operational momentum across the country. 

Eni (https://apo-opa.co/4jyPr4u) will reinforce its position at LEES as a cornerstone of Libya’s gas-focused growth strategy. Operated primarily through Mellitah Oil and Gas, a 50-50 joint venture with the NOC, Eni is advancing the $8 billion offshore Structures A&E project, targeting up to 750 million standard cubic feet per day with first gas expected around 2026, alongside carbon capture and storage at Mellitah. The company has resumed offshore and onshore exploration, operates the Bahr Essalam and Wafa fields, plans €8 billion in investments by 2029 and has been shortlisted for Libya’s upcoming upstream licensing round. 

Join industry leaders at the Libya Energy & Economic Summit 2026 in Tripoli and explore investment opportunities in one of North Africa’s most dynamic energy markets. LEES 2026 offers a premier platform for partnerships, innovation and sector growth. Visit www.LibyaSummit.com to secure your participation. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Emergent BioSolutions, PANTHER Partner to Advance Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC)-Led MpOx Study

Source: APO


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Emergent BioSolutions has announced a collaboration agreement with PANTHER to provide additional financial support to continue progressing the Africa CDC-led ‘MpOx Study in Africa’ (MOSA). This initiative aims to advance research into effective treatments for patients diagnosed with mpox, a virus for which there is currently no dedicated antiviral therapy.  

Launched in 2024, MOSA is a double-blind, platform-adaptive clinical trial designed to evaluate potential treatment options for mpox across multiple African countries. The study initially received funding from the European Union and Africa CDC, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) being a major area of focus.  

An independent data and safety monitoring board (DSMB) completed its initial review of MOSA safety data in December 2025, after the first 50 patients were randomised, and recommended continuing the trial, with no safety concerns identified.  

“We applaud Africa CDC, the DRC investigators, and PANTHER for their efforts in reaching this important milestone and are proud to support the advancement of the MOSA trial,” said Simon Lowry, M.D., chief medical officer, head of research and development, Emergent. “Emergent is committed to collaborating with research partners around the world to study medications that address global health threats.”

As the study continues, Africa CDC and PANTHER intend to extend the study to new countries, including a site in Uganda, and enrol patients to reach the next milestone.

“This study represents a critical step in generating evidence to inform mpox treatment and strengthen Africa’s capacity to respond to emerging health threats,” said Africa CDC Director General, Dr Jean Kaseya. “Africa CDC will continue working closely with partners whose collaboration and support are essential in advancing research and improving preparedness across the continent.”

Since the beginning of 2024, the continent has reported more than 61,383 confirmed cases and 296 deaths across 32 countries, according to Africa CDC. Africa has both major mpox clades, Clade I, which is endemic to Central Africa and causes more severe illness, and Clade II, which is more prevalent in West Africa, while recent outbreaks have featured subclades like Clade Ia, Ib and Clade IIa and IIb.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

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Upgraded water infrastructure brings aid to communities

Source: Government of South Africa

Upgraded water infrastructure brings aid to communities

In a move to improve water security for the residents of the Rustenburg Local Municipality in the North West and Thabazimbi Local Municipality in Limpopo, Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina, has handed over upgraded water infrastructure for communities.

“The commissioning included the upgraded Vaalkop Water Treatment Works Raw Water Pumpstation and the associated Bulk Water Pipeline, both of which are designed to respond to growing water demand and ensure long-term water security in the two provinces,” said the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) in a statement on Friday.

Minister Majodina and Deputy Minister David Mahlobo was joined by the Members of the Executive Council responsible for Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA) in the North West, Gaoage Oageng Molapisi, among others, in handing over the Vaalkop Water Treatment Works Raw Water Pumpstation upgrade in Rustenburg earlier this week.

The upgrade which was implemented by Magalies Water from February 2023 and completed in November 2025, will ensure sustainable water supply for Moses Kotane and Rustenburg Local Municipalities in the North West, as well as the Thabazimbi Local Municipality in Limpopo.

The pumpstation directly abstracts water from Vaalkop Dam and has been upgraded from a capacity of 240 megalitres per day (ML/day) to 360 ML/day. It has been equipped with ten pump sets designed to efficiently supply raw water to the water treatment works, strengthening operational reliability, improving water management and reducing water losses.

Majodina also commissioned the upgraded Bulk Water Supply Scheme, which was initiated in response to increasing water demand from the rural communities of Bethanie, Modikoe and Berseba, within the Rustenburg Local Municipality.

Implemented by Magalies Water, in partnership with Glencore Rhovan PSV Mine, the project involved the construction and installation of a 23.4-kilometre bulk potable water pipeline, comprising 560mm and 400mm diameter pipes with associated valves. The pipeline runs from the Kortbegrip Reservoir to the Bethanie and Modikoe Reservoirs.

The new pipeline replaces the ageing asbestos fibre-cement pipeline that had reached the end of its operational life and was prone to frequent bursts. 

The upgraded infrastructure increases bulk water supply capacity to meet the current demand of 7.05 ML/day and future demand projected at 12.60 ML/day.

“Importantly, the project will also enable additional water volumes to supply Makolokwe Village, where access to water remains critically low. Currently, the village relies on boreholes that are insufficient to meet the growing needs of the community,” said the department.

The second phase of the project, the bulk pipeline between Bethanie and Makolokwe Village, is scheduled to commence in March 2026 and will include the construction of a booster pumpstation at the Bethanie Reservoir. 

Upon full completion, the project will provide a reliable water supply to a combined population of approximately 144 133 residents, including households, schools, clinics, businesses and community institutions.

Public-private partnership

Minister Majodina commended the public-private partnership between Rustenburg Local Municipality and Glencore Rhovan PSV Mine, noting its positive contribution to accelerating service delivery in Bethanie and Modikoe villages.

“Today’s handover represents progress, but more importantly, it represents partnership. When government, communities and stakeholders work together, we can overcome scarcity, defeat criminality and deliver sustainable services.

“The benefits of this investment are clear and far-reaching. For households, it means a more reliable water supply and greater resilience during peak demand periods. For local businesses, industries and emerging enterprises, it provides the certainty needed to operate efficiently, expand production and create jobs. For municipalities, it strengthens the backbone of service delivery and long-term development planning,“ she said.

Vandalism 

The Minister also called on communities to protect the newly commissioned infrastructure and keep it safe from vandalism and sabotage. She also condemned individuals and syndicates who deliberately damage water infrastructure to sustain illegal water trading activities.

“These projects must be protected, and I want to speak clearly and firmly today: water infrastructure is not a playground for criminals. The vandalism of pipelines, theft of equipment and manipulation of water systems by so-called water mafias is a direct attack on the dignity and well-being of our people. It deprives families of water, disrupts livelihoods and undermines development.

“This government will not tolerate water mafias. Those who vandalise, steal or illegally profit from water infrastructure are stealing from children, the elderly and the most vulnerable.”

She added that law enforcement agencies are working closely with the DWS, municipalities and water boards.

“We will pursue arrests, prosecutions and harsh consequences for anyone who undermines service delivery,” Majodina said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Geopolitics and Energy Security: What Recent Moves Say about Africa’s Global Gas Role

Source: APO


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The Council of the European Union (EU) and the European Parliament signed a provisional agreement in early December 2025 to formally phase out Russian gas imports. Aligned with a broader strategy to diversify imports and strengthen security of supply, the agreement stipulates a full prohibition on both LNG and pipeline gas from 2026 and 2027 respectively. For African gas producers, this decision marks a strategic turning point: an opportunity to leverage geopolitics to attract long-term investment while prioritizing domestic energy needs.

European Diversification Creates Strategic Openings

The EU’s decision to introduce a legally binding prohibition on Russian gas imports forms a core pillar of the bloc’s REPowerEU roadmap – launched in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and aimed at safeguarding energy supply. Under the provisional agreement, short-term contracts concluded before June 2025 will expire in 2026, while long-term LNG contracts will be prohibited from January 2027. Long-term pipeline gas contracts will end by September or November 2027, contingent on storage targets being met. Amendments to existing contracts will be tightly restricted and cannot increase volumes.

The regulation also obliges EU member states to submit national diversification plans outlining how they intend to replace Russian supplies, while strengthening European Commission oversight. A parallel legislative proposal to phase out Russian oil imports is expected by the end of 2027. While Russian oil now accounts for less than 3% of EU imports, gas still represents around 13% – worth more than €15 billion annually – leaving Europe exposed to supply and security risks.

For African producers, this policy shift sends a clear signal: Europe is actively seeking new, reliable suppliers with the capacity to deliver long-term volumes under transparent, rules-based frameworks. The question is no longer whether demand exists, but how Africa positions itself to meet that demand on its own terms.

Africa: The Preferred Supplier

With its geographic advantage and strong resource base, Africa is well placed to respond. North Africa is the clear market of choice, with established export infrastructure already in place. Algeria, Egypt and Libya account for two-thirds of the continent’s output, and while production is set to expand into the 2030s, North Africa’s share is projected to fall below 40% by 2035 as other regional producers emerge.

For Europe, this holds a strategic advantage. West and East African LNG producers sit astride both Atlantic and Indian Ocean trade routes, enabling them to function as swing suppliers. This optionality allows producers to respond to price signals in Europe and Asia, arbitrage spot-market fluctuations and provide resilience during global supply disruptions – precisely the flexibility European buyers now value.

The resource base is equally compelling. Africa holds an estimated 620 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of proven gas reserves. The Rovuma Basin off Tanzania and Mozambique alone contains 129 tcf, while Nigeria’s Niger Delta holds 113 tcf. While much of this potential remains underdeveloped, momentum is building. The year 2025 saw the start-up of the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) project in Mauritania and Senegal, Congo LNG Phase 2 and the resumption of Mozambique LNG and Rovuma LNG. These projects send a clear message: Africa is capable and ready to supply global markets.

Balancing Global Demand with African Priorities

As European demand continues to grow, Africa faces a strategic balancing act: how to become a preferred global supplier while ensuring investment serves the continent’s development needs. With more than 600 million people still without access to electricity and 900 million lacking clean cooking solutions, it is increasingly important to move beyond historical contractual models rooted primarily in extraction. By 2050, African gas demand is projected to rise by 60%, reaffirming the need to design contracts that support long-term economic growth rather than short-term export gains.

One mechanism already gaining traction is the integration of domestic market obligations into LNG projects. The GTA project offers a clear example. Developed as a cross-border LNG hub for Mauritania and Senegal, the project earmarks 35 million standard cubic feet per day of its output for domestic use in each country, supporting power generation and industrial development alongside exports to global markets. Rather than viewing exports and domestic consumption as competing priorities, this framework links them directly: as production and exports grow, so too does gas availability for local markets.

“By modernizing contractual structures and embedding development considerations into gas investments, African producers can ensure that rising global demand translates into accelerated progress at home. Africa’s gas resources must be developed in a way that serves Africans first – powering homes, driving industrialization and creating jobs – while responsibly supplying the world,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.

This message will take center stage at African Energy Week 2026, where policymakers, producers and financiers will convene to redefine Africa’s role in a fragmenting global energy order. With Europe looking south for security of supply, Africa has a rare opportunity in 2026: to leverage geopolitics not just for capital inflows, but for a future where energy abundance translates into broad-based prosperity at home.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Eritrea: Seminar to nationals in Gothenburg on objective situation

Source: APO


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Mr. Fesehatsion Petros, Eritrea’s Ambassador to Italy and non-resident Ambassador to Sweden, conducted a seminar for nationals residing in Gothenburg, Sweden, focusing on the progress of national development programs as well as the objective situation in the homeland and regional developments.

Extending New Year and Christmas greetings to the Eritrean people, Ambassador Fesehatsion gave an extensive briefing on priority programs for 2026. He also outlined issues that should be carried out with a view to strengthening activities and the contribution of the Fourth Front to national affairs.

Noting the role of parents, national organizations, and communities in transferring noble cultural values to future generations, Ambassador Fesehatsion called for reinforced participation by nationals.

Ambassador Fesehatsion further stated that Eritrea, while foiling external hostilities and safeguarding its peace and sovereignty, is earnestly conducting praiseworthy diplomatic activities based on mutual interests with its neighbors, the Horn of Africa region, as well as the Red Sea region and the Middle East—efforts that are bearing fruitful results.

Mr. Mohammed Ali Mohammed Seid, Chargé d’Affaires at the Eritrean Embassy in Scandinavian countries, and Mr. Yemane Gebrekidan, Head of Consular Affairs, on their part provided extensive briefings on consular guidelines and the efforts being exerted to ensure timely consular services.

The participants expressed their conviction to strengthen unity, organization, and contribution to national development drives.

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

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Cérémonie de présentation des vœux du Corps diplomatique et des Forces de Défense et de Sécurité au couple présidentiel

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le Président de la République, Chef de l’Etat, Chef du Gouvernement Son Excellence Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, accompagné de la Première Dame, Zita Oligui Nguema, a reçu ce mercredi, au Palais du Bord de Mer, les vœux de Nouvel An du Corps diplomatique et des Forces de Défense et de Sécurité.

Au nom du Corps diplomatique, Son Excellence François Luambo Siongo, Doyen et Ambassadeur de la République Démocratique du Congo, a salué les avancées majeures sous le leadership du Chef de l’État. Il a mis en avant le retour à l’ordre constitutionnel, l’avènement de la 5e République, les réformes engagées et les progrès économiques, sociaux et diplomatiques, rendant un hommage appuyé à l’engagement social de la Première Dame.

Les Forces de Défense et de Sécurité ont présenté leurs vœux de loyauté et de fidélité au Chef Suprême des Forces de défense et de sécurité saluant les avancées dans la modernisation des équipements, le renforcement des capacités opérationnelles et l’amélioration des conditions de vie des personnels. La Police Nationale a dressé un bilan marqué par d’importantes saisies de stupéfiants et de faux médicaments. La Garde Républicaine a rappelé son rôle central dans la sécurisation du Chef de l’État durant la transition et son action sociale. La Sécurité pénitentiaire a accentué ses réformes structurelles pour améliorer les conditions de détention et renforcer ses effectifs.

Les corps paramilitaires ont également enregistré des évolutions structurantes. L’Administration des Douanes, érigée en corps militaire, renforce la discipline et l’efficacité de ses agents avec des objectifs de recettes ambitieux pour 2026. Le Corps des Eaux et Forêts, intégré aux Forces de Sécurité, voit son rôle consolidé dans la protection des ressources naturelles grâce à des réformes juridiques et institutionnelles majeures. L’année 2025 s’inscrit ainsi comme une séquence historique, marquée par la fin de la transition et le retour effectif à l’ordre constitutionnel.

En réponse, le Président de la République a exprimé sa profonde gratitude pour l’accompagnement constant durant la transition, soulignant leur contribution au rayonnement international du Gabon. Il a réaffirmé sa détermination à consolider la paix et poursuivre les actions en faveur de la sécurité, de la stabilité et du développement durable. S’adressant aux Forces de Défense et de Sécurité, le Chef de l’État a salué leur discipline et leur loyauté. Il a insisté sur la nécessité d’une présence accrue sur le terrain pour protéger les populations.

Distribué par APO Group pour Présidence de la République Gabonaise.