Category: Africa

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Countdown to 2026 Hollywoodbets Durban July begins

Source: Government of South Africa

Countdown to 2026 Hollywoodbets Durban July begins

The countdown to Africa’s most prestigious horse racing and lifestyle event has officially begun, with preparations gaining momentum, following the reveal of the theme for the 2026 edition of the Hollywoodbets Durban July.

The glitzy affair is set to take place on 4 July at the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse in KwaZulu-Natal.

Unveiled recently at The Parade Ring within racecourse, the 2026 theme, “Country Allure,” calls on designers, fashion enthusiasts and racegoers to draw inspiration from rural landscapes blended with classic racing elegance.

The theme sets the stage for another standout edition of one of Durban’s flagship events, while reinforcing the city’s reputation as a leading destination for premier events. Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee, Thembo Ntuli, welcomed the announcement and reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to delivering a world-class experience.

“We look forward to welcoming thousands of punters, fashion enthusiasts and visitors to Durban, boosting tourism and hospitality. The event remains key in driving economic growth, supporting jobs and the fashion industry, and contributing to the City’s GDP [gross domestic product]. Preparations will now begin to ensure a safe, seamless and memorable Durban July experience for all,” Ntuli said.

The Hollywoodbets Durban July continues to be a major economic driver for eThekwini.

The 2025 edition attracted more than 40 000 attendees and contributed approximately R840 million to Durban’s GDP. It supported around 4 500 jobs, generated R50 million in tax revenue and achieved hotel occupancy rates of 80% during race week.

Organisers expect an even greater impact in 2026.

Designer Mzwandile Mathonsi, founder of the ZWANDYY fashion brand, said the theme offers significant creative and commercial potential.

“The ‘Country Allure’ theme is rich with storytelling, allowing us to explore heritage and sophistication in bold ways. The Hollywoodbets Durban July is a platform to grow, reach new audiences and showcase African creativity. As a product of the City’s Fashion Development Programme, I am proud to be part of this journey and ready to deliver standout designs,” he said.

Stephen Marshall of Race Coast said the theme celebrates the heritage and authenticity of horse racing while inspiring creativity in fashion and design.

Meanwhile, Hollywoodbets spokesperson Devin Heffer described the event as a timeless celebration of sport, fashion and entertainment, adding that preparations are well underway to deliver another memorable edition.

Heffer described the event as a timeless celebration of sport, fashion, and entertainment that continues to attract guests from across the country and abroad. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK

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Statement by His Excellency Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa and Chairperson of SADC, on the occasion of the Southern Africa Liberation Day

Source: President of South Africa –

Once again on this day, 23 March 2026, we celebrate the Southern Africa Liberation Day – one of the most significant milestones in our shared journey toward freedom and independence as a regional community. We honour, with deep respect and gratitude, the brave men and women who stood at the forefront of the struggle to liberate the Southern African region. Through their unwavering commitment and resilience, many freedom fighters and ordinary citizens made immense sacrifices in the fight against colonial rule and apartheid, laying the foundation for the peace, dignity, and sovereignty we uphold today.

We also recall, with profound appreciation, the solidarity and support of our international partners – most notably the people and government of Cuba – who deployed their military forces to stand alongside regional liberation movements and independent states. Together, they confronted the South African Defence Force of the apartheid regime in the historic Battle of Cuito Cuanavale in Angola. This decisive confrontation marked a turning point in the struggle for liberation in Southern Africa, contributing significantly to the independence of Namibia in 1990, and paving the way for the first democratic elections in South Africa in 1994.

We continue to draw inspiration for our regional integration and development agenda from the vision and determination of the Founders of SADC. While we mark this seminal moment in our region’s history annually, it is far from an empty ritual performed merely to acknowledge a date on the calendar. Rather, it serves as an important opportunity for reflection on where we stand today in relation to our historical struggles that sought to secure for our people the right to determine their own systems of governance, to exercise control over their economies and ultimately to reclaim their dignity and collective destiny.

In addition to commemorating the Southern Africa Liberation Day, we are reminded of the 38th SADC Heads of State and Government Summit held in August 2018 in Windhoek, Republic of Namibia, where the region’s Leadership approved the establishment of a regional working group of curriculum experts tasked with determining the requirements for teaching Southern African Liberation History and its integration into the school curricula of SADC Member States. We look forward to the most noble endeavour to take root across our region.

May we continue to demonstrate solidarity and honour our liberation heritage and interconnected communities through meaningful and enduring cooperation, including the naming of heritage sites, museums, monuments, streets, buildings, and other institutions after the fallen heroes and heroines of our liberation struggles. In doing so, we preserve their legacy, inspire future generations, and reaffirm our collective commitment to the values of freedom, unity, and dignity for which they so selflessly stood.

As we navigate the realities of an increasingly unpredictable global environment, I urge all of us, as independent nations and citizens of SADC, to remain vigilant in the face of emerging challenges that may threaten our hard-won independence and the stability of our region. Let us remain focused, united, and steadfast in advancing our common regional agenda, guided by the enduring principles of solidarity, resilience, and collective self-determination.

The liberation we commemorate will remain incomplete as long as some of our fellow Africans continue to yearn for self-determination. We therefore stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, who continue to be denied the fundamental right to determine their own destiny.

As with the SADC Founders and many who fought tirelessly for our liberation, we reaffirm that it is neither the colour of our skin, nor the size of our military arsenals, nor the magnitude of our national budgets that should determine our humanity or the sustainability of the human race as a whole. May dialogue and peace be our most righteous armour to safeguard the freedom we continue to enjoy and work collectively toward a more just and equitable world.

Let us ensure that SADC, the cradle of humanity, realises its hopes towards regional and universal integration.

I wish the SADC family a blessed, peaceful and commemorative Liberation Day.

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Coopération sino-béninoise : Des étudiants béninois célébrés pour leur excellence académique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le mercredi 18 mars 2026, une cérémonie officielle de remise de prix aux lauréats de la 7ᵉ édition du Prix d’excellence de la « Ceinture et la Route de la Soie », s’est tenue à Cotonou. Une initiative qui s’inscrit dans le cadre du partenariat entre le Bénin et la République populaire de Chine. 

Initialement prévue sous la présidence du Ministre de l’Enseignement supérieur et de la Recherche Scientifique par intérim, Professeur Benjamin HOUNKPATIN, cette cérémonie a finalement été conduite par la Ministre Conseillère à l’Enseignement Supérieur et à la Recherche Scientifique, Madame Sèdami MEDEGAN FAGLA. Elle a connu la présence de Son Excellence ZHANG Wei, Ambassadeur de la République populaire de Chine au Bénin, ainsi que de plusieurs autorités universitaires, membres du gouvernement et parents d’étudiants. 

Dans son discours, la représentante du Ministre a souligné la portée symbolique de cette initiative, qui va bien au-delà d’un simple soutien financier. Selon elle, ces bourses constituent un levier d’émulation et une source d’inspiration pour la jeunesse béninoise. Madame Sèdami MEDEGAN FAGLA a salué la coopération exemplaire entre le Bénin et la Chine, notamment dans les domaines de l’enseignement supérieur et de la recherche scientifique. 

S’adressant aux bénéficiaires, la Ministre Conseillère les a exhortés à faire preuve de responsabilité et à devenir des acteurs du développement national. Elle a réaffirmé l’engagement du gouvernement à promouvoir le mérite et à investir dans le capital humain. 

A son tour, et au nom des Recteurs du Bénin, Monsieur Bruno DJOSSA a salué cette initiative qui encourage l’excellence académique et renforce les capacités des étudiants. Il a insisté sur l’importance de telles opportunités pour accompagner la formation d’une élite compétente au service du développement national. 

Depuis 2019, ce programme a permis de soutenir près de 350 étudiants béninois, pour un montant global de 158 millions de francs CFA. Une dynamique qui contribue à améliorer les performances académiques et à encourager l’excellence au sein des universités. Pour cette 7ᵉ édition, une cinquantaine de lauréats ont été distingués, avec une attention particulière accordée à la promotion du genre, à l’inclusion des personnes en situation de handicap et à l’innovation technologique. 

Au nom des bénéficiaires, Madame Fantasia Blondie MAHINOU a exprimé sa gratitude aux initiateurs de ce programme, saluant un appui précieux qui constitue une source de motivation supplémentaire pour les étudiants. 

À travers cette initiative, le Bénin et la Chine réaffirment leur volonté de renforcer un partenariat durable, au service de la formation des élites de demain.

Distribué par APO Group pour Gouvernement de la République du Bénin.

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Seychelles: Restructuring and New Appointments in the Cabinet Office

Source: APO – Report:

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The Office of the President has today announced a series of appointments within the Cabinet Office as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Office and enhance the coordination of government policy and decision-making.

Ms. Margaret Moumou continues to serve as Secretary of State for Cabinet Affairs and Head of the Civil Service, providing overall leadership and strategic oversight for the functioning of the Cabinet system and the wider public service.

In support of this strengthened structure, Ms. Florry Payet has been appointed Cabinet Secretary, effective 1 February 2026. In this capacity, Ms. Payet will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Cabinet Office, coordinate the work of Cabinet, and ensure that Cabinet processes and decisions are conducted in accordance with the Constitution, the laws of Seychelles, and established government procedures. She will also support the President and Cabinet in the effective coordination of government policy and decision-making, while ensuring the proper recording, implementation, and follow-up of Cabinet decisions across the public service.

To further reinforce the operational and technical capacity of the Cabinet Office, two Deputy Cabinet Secretaries have also been appointed.

Mr. Alex Henderson has been appointed Deputy Cabinet Secretary – Policy Affairs, effective 1 February 2026. In this role, he will support the Cabinet Secretary in coordinating the policy development process across government, strengthening the quality and coherence of policy submissions presented to Cabinet, and ensuring alignment of policy proposals with national priorities and Government programmes.

Mrs. Angela Payet has been appointed Deputy Cabinet Secretary – Legal Affairs, effective 26 February 2026. She will provide legal oversight and guidance on matters relating to Cabinet processes, ensure that Cabinet decisions and procedures remain consistent with the Constitution and applicable laws, and provide legal advice on policy, legislative, and governance matters submitted for Cabinet consideration.

These appointments form part of the continued efforts of the Office of the President to reinforce the capacity of the Cabinet Office to effectively support Government decision-making, policy coordination, and the implementation of national priorities.

The Office of the President congratulates Ms. Florry Payet, Mr. Alex Henderson, and Mrs. Angela Payet on their appointments and wishes them every success in the discharge of their duties.

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Which Pre-Crisis African Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Projects Could Provide Critical Supply for Europe

Source: APO – Report:

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Europe’s gas strategy is under renewed pressure. Rising geopolitical risk and tightening global LNG markets have refocused attention on African projects that were approved years ago – but are only now becoming operational. At the Invest in African Energy Forum (IAE) in Paris next month, these pre-crisis LNG developments are expected to dominate discussions as buyers and investors reassess near-term, flexible supply options.

The advantage is timing. Projects sanctioned before today’s disruptions are delivering – or approaching first gas – providing Europe with volumes without waiting for the next multi-year investment cycle. In a market where new greenfield LNG supply can take 5–7 years to reach the market, African LNG increasingly functions as ready-to-deploy capacity, capable of meeting demand spikes, offsetting supply shortfalls and reducing reliance on concentrated geopolitical sources.

Mozambique LNG: Scale Delayed, But Strategic

Mozambique remains Africa’s largest long-term LNG play, with more than 30 mtpa of planned additional capacity across developments led by TotalEnergies and ExxonMobil. While TotalEnergies’ 12.9 mtpa Mozambique LNG project remains paused due to security concerns, momentum toward a restart is building.

In today’s market, that scale is highly relevant. European buyers seeking to diversify away from concentrated supply sources are increasingly willing to engage with projects that offer long-term volumes – even if timelines remain uncertain. In a tighter global market, previously “high-risk” projects are being reassessed as strategic supply anchors.

Senegal–Mauritania GTA: From Frontier to First Gas

The Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG Project (GTA), operated by bp and Kosmos Energy, is moving into production just as Europe looks to expand Atlantic Basin supply. The project will deliver around 2.3 mtpa in its first phase, with expansion potential up to 10 mtpa.

GTA’s strategic advantage lies not only in scale but in design and timing. Floating LNG units allow faster deployment and flexible cargo delivery, while its West African location shortens shipping times to Europe compared with U.S. Gulf exports. As Europe seeks to balance winter demand peaks, GTA provides mid-scale, redirectable supply that the market currently lacks.

Nigeria LNG Expansion: Incremental Capacity, Immediate Impact

Nigeria LNG Train 7 will add roughly 8 mtpa to the country’s existing 22 mtpa capacity, making it one of the most significant near-term additions globally. Unlike greenfield projects, Train 7 leverages existing infrastructure, reducing cost and development time. For Europe, incremental expansions like this offer faster access to contracted volumes, helping utilities manage seasonal volatility and limit exposure to spot-market price swings.

Angola LNG: Underutilized, Now Repositioned

Angola’s Angola LNG plant has a nameplate capacity of 5.2 mtpa but has historically operated below potential due to feedgas constraints. With upstream investment improving and gas supply stabilizing, the project now represents “quick-win” capacity – volumes that can be ramped up without the long lead times of new developments. For European buyers, this latent supply is increasingly valuable as a buffer against short-term disruptions.

Republic of Congo LNG: Fast-Track Development

The Congo LNG Project, led by Eni, targets around 3 mtpa through a phased, modular approach, with first exports already underway. By leveraging existing offshore assets and floating LNG units, the project has moved from concept to production faster than traditional developments. In a market where timing is critical, rapid deployment offers a clear competitive advantage.

Paris as the Deal-Making Interface

As these dynamics converge, the IAE 2026 Forum in Paris is emerging as a key platform for turning market demand into project momentum. With European buyers seeking long-term supply and African producers looking to advance both new and delayed LNG projects, the forum provides direct engagement with decision-makers, investors and technical teams.

Africa’s pre-crisis LNG projects were not designed for today’s market – but in a world of tight supply and high volatility, their readiness is becoming indispensable.

IAE 2026 (www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com) is an exclusive forum designed to connect African energy markets with global investors, serving as a key platform for deal-making in the lead-up to African Energy Week. Scheduled for April 22–23, 2026, in Paris, the event will provide delegates with two days of in-depth engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or register as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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From Day Zero to direct potable reuse: Water Security Africa programme spotlights proven utility playbooks to cut losses and strengthen supply

Source: APO – Report:

Water Security Africa, co-located with Enlit Africa (19–21 May 2026, CTICC), has announced its full programme, centred on utility and municipal playbooks from regions that have faced acute water stress and responded with measurable operational change.

With sub-Saharan Africa projected to face a 50% gap between water supply and demand by 2030, utilities are under increasing pressure to reduce losses, diversify supply and strengthen operational resilience.

The SAICE CPD-accredited programme focuses on two hard realities: persistent water losses across urban networks and the growing need for diversified and resilient water sources.. Over three days, utility executives, city leaders and technical specialists will share approaches to loss reduction, asset management, smart metering, reuse and desalination, with a focus on implementation pathways, governance and delivery models.

Key programme themes include:

Reducing non-revenue water through targeted leak detection, pressure management, smart metering and performance-led delivery models

Building resilient supply through fit-for-purpose reuse and desalination, including when modular systems make sense and how projects move from concept to commissioning

Strengthening municipal execution by aligning policy intent with local implementation, licensing and operational capacity

The programme also features country spotlights with operational lessons from:

Cape Town: Post-Day Zero recovery strategies and the operational discipline required to sustain long-term resilience

Windhoek: The world’s longest-running direct potable reuse programme and the institutional structures that make reuse investment-ready.

Kampala: Performance-driven approaches to reducing losses while expanding supply capacity

Nairobi and South African municipalities: Accelerating delivery through smart metering rollouts, pipeline prioritisation and partnership models

“Cities cannot engineer their way out of water stress with one silver bullet,” said Claire Volkwyn, Head of Content, VUKA Group “What works is operational execution: reducing losses, strengthening networks and building supply resilience with solutions that can be financed and delivered.”

Confirmed speakers include Emmanuel Khomela (ERWAT), Patrick Hlabela (Department of Water and Sanitation),  Hilton Smith (Drakenstein Local Municipality) and additional municipal, utility and industry leaders across the programme.

Download the programme: https://apo-opa.co/41k2nmj

Register: https://apo-opa.co/4tmZUnp

– on behalf of VUKA Group.

Contacts:
Speaking opportunities:
Claire Volkwyn,VUKA Group
Claire.volkwyn@wearevuka.com  

For sponsorship and exhibition:
Marcel du Toit
marcel.dutoit@wearevuka.com

About Water Security Africa :
Water Security Africa, co-located with Enlit Africa, addresses operational and economic water challenges across utilities, municipalities and commercial and industrial sectors. The event takes place 19–21 May 2026 at the CTICC, Cape Town, South Africa. All sessions are CPD-accredited by SAICE.

About VUKA Group:
VUKA Group connects people and organisations to information and each other, across Africa’s energy, mining, infrastructure, mobility, green economy and technology sectors through innovative events, content, and strategic networking. By integrating industry introductions, curated events and digital engagement, the group empowers businesses to navigate complex markets, forge valuable connections and drive sustainable success.

Venture partners to The Global Trust Project, Founders of WomenIN empowerment platform and leaders of NPO, Go Green Africa. The VUKA Group’s diverse portfolio acts to contribute to its purpose of ‘Connecting Africa to the World’s Best, to Influence Sustainable Progress’. Discover more at: https://WeAreVUKA.com/

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Avon project brings water relief to Ga-Seakamela community

Source: Government of South Africa

Avon project brings water relief to Ga-Seakamela community

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has officially handed over the completed Avon Water Project in the Blouberg Local Municipality, within the Capricorn District Municipality in Limpopo, bringing much-needed water services to the Ga-Seakamela community.

The R22.9 million project, funded through the Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG), was implemented to assist the Capricorn District Municipality in addressing longstanding water supply challenges in the village, which previously did not have a reliable source of water.

The handover ceremony held on Friday, was led by DWS Limpopo Provincial Head Lucy Kobe, alongside Capricorn District Municipality Mayor Mamedupi Teffo, Blouberg Local Municipality Mayor Maria Thamaga, and representatives from Lepelle Northern Water.

As part of the programme, the delegation conducted site visits, including to Selaelo Primary School, where boreholes have been installed to improve water access.

Kobe said the project includes two newly drilled boreholes and four refurbished ones, with a combined yield of 604.8 kilolitres per day at a 24-hour pumping cycle.

“In addition, the project includes five pump houses, a 200-kilolitre elevated steel tank, the construction of three kilometres of bulk pipeline and one kilometre of galvanised steel pipeline connecting boreholes to storage reservoirs, as well as the reticulation of 100 standpipes and palisade fencing for the infrastructure,” Kobe said.

Local government leaders welcomed the project, noting its positive impact on residents’ quality of life.

Kobe also urged communities to safeguard water infrastructure against vandalism and to use water responsibly to ensure long-term sustainability.

The handover forms part of activities marking National Water Month and contributes to the global observance of World Water Day on 22 March.

The event concluded with a community engagement session at Ditlou Sports Grounds, where residents expressed appreciation for ongoing service delivery efforts.

New water project to boost supply in Harry Gwala District

Meanwhile, the department, in partnership with the Harry Gwala District Municipality, is set to officially launch the Bhongweni Water Supply Project in KwaZulu-Natal on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, as part of National Water Month.

The project is expected to significantly improve access to clean, safe and reliable water for underserved rural communities in the Harry Gwala District.

Located in Greater Kokstad, the Bhongweni Water Supply Project is funded by DWS and implemented by the Harry Gwala District Municipality.

Located in Greater Kokstad, the Bhongweni Water Supply Project is funded by the department and implemented by the municipality.

According to the department, the scope of work includes upgrading approximately five kilometres of secondary bulk pipeline to a 315mm diameter, running from the water treatment works to the distribution reservoir supplying the Bhongweni area.

“It also includes upgrading a service reservoir to a capacity of 2.5 megalitres, as well as the extension and upgrading of reticulation mains to accommodate both existing households and future developments,” the department said.

Once completed, the project will provide reliable water supply to 3,783 households in Bhongweni Township, with infrastructure designed to support up to 5,626 households by 2047.

“This forward-looking investment ensures long-term water security for a growing community and highlights government’s ongoing commitment to closing service delivery gaps and ensuring that no community is left behind in accessing this basic human right,” the department said.

For many households in Bhongweni and surrounding areas, the project represents a critical step toward dignity, improved health, and sustainable livelihoods. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK

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A Zephyr Marine Services marca uma nova era para os serviços petrolíferos da Namíbia com a entrada de Taimi Nangula Itembu na liderança

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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O setor energético offshore da Namíbia, em rápida expansão, ganhou um novo facilitador fundamental com o lançamento da Zephyr Marine Services Pty Ltd — uma empresa de capital local dedicada à logística de ativos marítimos e a soluções operacionais. À frente da empresa está a cofundadora e diretora executiva Taimi Nangula Itembu, uma profissional namibiana respeitada que assume agora um papel de liderança focado no desenvolvimento da capacidade nacional para apoiar as indústrias marítimas e offshore do país.

Itembu traz para a sua nova função um sólido historial no setor público, em políticas e no envolvimento internacional. A sua carreira abrange instituições-chave, incluindo o Poder Judicial da Namíbia e o Parlamento da Namíbia, onde contribuiu para processos legislativos, supervisão da governação e reforma institucional. Posteriormente, acumulou uma vasta experiência em assuntos públicos e governamentais no setor energético, adquirindo conhecimentos sobre o envolvimento das partes interessadas, os quadros regulamentares e as prioridades estratégicas que moldam o panorama do petróleo e do gás na Namíbia.

Ocupou vários cargos na ExxonMobil, incluindo o de Diretora Adjunta para a Namíbia, antes de passar a desempenhar uma função global na Europa na área de Assuntos Públicos e Governamentais. O início da sua carreira inclui também trabalho com o Departamento de Estado dos EUA, reforçando as relações entre os EUA e a Namíbia. A nível académico, Itembu possui um Mestrado em Administração Pública pela Universidade de Harvard e uma Licenciatura em Ciências Políticas e Psicologia pela Universidade St. Francis Xavier. A sua transição para a Zephyr Marine Services reflete uma mudança deliberada no sentido de construir soluções lideradas pela Namíbia.

«Estou profundamente grata pelo tempo que passei na ExxonMobil, que me proporcionou uma plataforma excecional para o crescimento, a aprendizagem e o desenvolvimento profissional. A experiência, a orientação e a exposição que adquiri foram fundamentais para moldar a minha compreensão do panorama energético da Namíbia e da indústria global em geral. Parto com imensa gratidão pelas oportunidades que me foram dadas e levo essas lições comigo ao iniciar este novo capítulo», afirmou Itembu.

O lançamento da Zephyr Marine Services surge num momento crítico para a indústria petrolífera e do gás da Namíbia. Com a primeira produção de petróleo prevista para 2029 — liderada pelos campos Venus e Mopane, operados pela TotalEnergies —, a procura por logística robusta e impulsionada localmente, coordenação marítima e apoio operacional continua a aumentar. A TotalEnergies pretende alcançar a decisão final de investimento (FID) para o projeto Venus em 2026 e assinou recentemente um acordo com a Galp Energia — antiga operadora do campo Mopane — concedendo-lhe a operação da PEL 83. Nos termos do acordo, a Galp manterá uma participação na PEL 83, assumindo simultaneamente uma participação de 10% no projeto Venus.

Outros intervenientes estão a impulsionar atividades de exploração nas bacias offshore e onshore da Namíbia. Em 2025, foram alcançados vários marcos, incluindo a descoberta de petróleo leve pela Rhino Resources no poço Capricornus 1-X, em abril. A Chevron anunciou planos para iniciar uma campanha de perfuração em 2026/2027, enquanto a ReconAfrica concluiu a perfuração no poço Kavango West 1X (onshore). Olhando para o futuro, a ReconAfrica planeia regressar a Kavango West 1X em 2026 para realizar um teste de produção. No mar, a Shell poderá provavelmente perfurar um poço de exploração na PEL 39, a Chevron na PEL 82 e a Rhino Resources tem como alvo dois poços de avaliação em Capricornus e Volans. Prevê-se que a exploração nas bacias de Orange e Walvis continue até 2028, reforçando a posição da Namíbia como futuro centro de produção.

Neste contexto, espera-se que o lançamento da Zephyr Marine Services não só apoie as próximas campanhas de perfuração, mas também coloque a experiência namibiana no centro da próxima fase de desenvolvimento do país.

Oferecendo soluções personalizadas, eficientes e fiáveis, concebidas especificamente para o ecossistema offshore em evolução da Namíbia, a empresa representa mais do que um prestador de serviços, mas sim uma mudança mais ampla no sentido da participação local, inovação e propriedade na cadeia de valor energética do país. A Zephyr Marine Services pretende construir uma verdadeira capacidade industrial na Namíbia, assumindo serviços de entrada de alta barreira e apoiando o avanço do país rumo à primeira produção de petróleo.

«Trata-se de construir algo significativo para a Namíbia. A Zephyr Marine Services assenta na convicção de que os namibianos não devem apenas participar no futuro energético do nosso país, mas moldá-lo ativamente. Estamos a criar soluções que compreendem as realidades locais, respondem aos desafios locais e contribuem para o crescimento nacional a longo prazo», afirmou Itembu.

A missão da empresa é clara: apoiar as crescentes indústrias marítimas e offshore da Namíbia com soluções de logística marítima eficientes, fiáveis e orientadas para o contexto local. Desde a coordenação de embarcações e gestão de ativos até ao planeamento operacional, a Zephyr Marine Services está a posicionar-se como um elo fundamental entre os operadores a montante e a execução no terreno.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

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Zephyr Marine Services marque le début d’une nouvelle ère pour les services pétroliers namibiens avec l’arrivée de Taimi Nangula Itembu à la tête de l’entreprise

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le secteur énergétique offshore namibien, en pleine expansion, s’est doté d’un nouvel acteur essentiel avec le lancement de Zephyr Marine Services Pty Ltd, une entreprise locale spécialisée dans la logistique des actifs maritimes et les solutions opérationnelles. À la tête de l’entreprise se trouve la cofondatrice et directrice exécutive Taimi Nangula Itembu, une professionnelle namibienne respectée qui endosse désormais un rôle de direction axé sur le renforcement des capacités nationales afin de soutenir les industries maritimes et offshore du pays.

Mme Itembu apporte à ses nouvelles fonctions une solide expérience dans le secteur public, les politiques publiques et l’engagement international. Sa carrière s’étend à des institutions clés, notamment le pouvoir judiciaire et le Parlement namibiens, où elle a contribué aux processus législatifs, à la supervision de la gouvernance et à la réforme institutionnelle. Elle a ensuite acquis une vaste expérience des affaires publiques et gouvernementales dans le secteur de l’énergie, ce qui lui a permis de mieux comprendre l’engagement des parties prenantes, les cadres réglementaires et les priorités stratégiques qui façonnent le paysage pétrolier et gazier de la Namibie.

Elle a occupé divers postes chez ExxonMobil, notamment celui de directrice nationale adjointe pour la Namibie, avant d’assumer un rôle international en Europe dans le domaine des affaires publiques et gouvernementales. Au début de sa carrière, elle a également travaillé au Département d’État américain, où elle a contribué à renforcer les relations entre les États-Unis et la Namibie. Sur le plan académique, Mme Itembu est titulaire d’un master en administration publique de l’université de Harvard et d’une licence en sciences politiques et psychologie de l’université St. Francis Xavier. Son arrivée chez Zephyr Marine Services reflète une volonté délibérée de contribuer à la mise en place de solutions menées par la Namibie.

« Je suis profondément reconnaissante pour le temps passé chez ExxonMobil, qui m’a offert une plateforme exceptionnelle de croissance, d’apprentissage et de développement professionnel. L’expérience, le mentorat et la visibilité dont j’ai bénéficié ont joué un rôle déterminant dans la formation de ma compréhension du paysage énergétique namibien et de l’industrie mondiale au sens large. Je pars avec une immense gratitude pour les opportunités qui m’ont été offertes et je mets ces leçons à profit alors que j’entame ce nouveau chapitre », a déclaré Mme Itembu.

Le lancement de Zephyr Marine Services intervient à un moment critique pour l’industrie pétrolière et gazière namibienne. Avec une première production de pétrole prévue pour 2029 – sous l’impulsion des champs Venus et Mopane exploités par TotalEnergies –, la demande en matière de logistique, de coordination maritime et de soutien opérationnel solides et pilotés localement ne cesse de croître. TotalEnergies vise à obtenir la décision finale d’investissement (FID) pour le projet Venus en 2026 et a récemment signé un accord avec Galp Energia – ancien opérateur du champ Mopane – lui conférant l’exploitation du PEL 83. Selon les termes de l’accord, Galp conservera une participation dans le PEL 83 tout en prenant une participation de 10 % dans le projet Venus.

D’autres acteurs mènent des activités d’exploration dans les bassins offshore et onshore de Namibie. En 2025, plusieurs étapes importantes ont été franchies, notamment la découverte de pétrole léger par Rhino Resources au puits Capricornus 1-X en avril. Chevron a annoncé son intention de lancer une campagne de forage en 2026/2027, tandis que ReconAfrica a achevé le forage du puits Kavango West 1X (onshore). À l’avenir, ReconAfrica prévoit de retourner à Kavango West 1X en 2026 pour effectuer un test de production. En mer, Shell pourrait forer un puits d’exploration sur le PEL 39, Chevron sur le PEL 82 et Rhino Resources vise deux puits d’évaluation à Capricornus et Volans. La poursuite de l’exploration dans les bassins d’Orange et de Walvis est prévue jusqu’en 2028, renforçant ainsi la position de la Namibie en tant que futur pôle de production.

Dans ce contexte, le lancement de Zephyr Marine Services devrait non seulement soutenir les prochaines campagnes de forage, mais aussi placer l’expertise namibienne au cœur de la prochaine phase de développement du pays.

En proposant des solutions sur mesure, efficaces et fiables, spécialement conçues pour l’écosystème offshore namibien en pleine évolution, l’entreprise représente plus qu’un simple prestataire de services : elle incarne une transition plus large vers la participation locale, l’innovation et l’appropriation de la chaîne de valeur énergétique du pays. Zephyr Marine Services vise à développer de véritables capacités industrielles en Namibie, en se chargeant de services à forte barrière à l’entrée et en soutenant le pays dans son cheminement vers la première production pétrolière.

« Il s’agit de construire quelque chose qui ait du sens pour la Namibie. Zephyr Marine Services est ancrée dans la conviction que les Namibiens ne doivent pas seulement participer à l’avenir énergétique de notre pays, mais aussi le façonner activement. Nous créons des solutions qui tiennent compte des réalités locales, répondent aux défis locaux et contribuent à la croissance nationale à long terme », a déclaré M. Itembu.

La mission de l’entreprise est claire : soutenir les industries maritimes et offshore en pleine croissance de la Namibie grâce à des solutions logistiques maritimes efficaces, fiables et ancrées localement. De la coordination des navires et de la gestion des actifs à la planification opérationnelle, Zephyr Marine Services se positionne comme un maillon essentiel entre les opérateurs en amont et l’exécution sur le terrain.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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Zephyr Marine Services Signals New Era for Namibian Oil Services as Taimi Nangula Itembu Steps into Leadership

Source: APO – Report:

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Namibia’s rapidly expanding offshore energy sector has gained a critical new enabler with the launch of Zephyr Marine Services Pty Ltd – a locally owned company dedicated to marine asset logistics and operational solutions. At the helm is co-Founder and Executive Director Taimi Nangula Itembu, a respected Namibian professional now stepping into a leadership role focused on building domestic capacity to support the country’s maritime and offshore industries.

Itembu brings a strong track record of public sector, policy and international engagement to her new role. Her career spans key institutions including the Judiciary of Namibia and the Parliament of Namibia, where she contributed to legislative processes, governance oversight and institutional reform. She later built extensive experience in public and government affairs within the energy sector, gaining insight into stakeholder engagement, regulatory frameworks and the strategic priorities shaping Namibia’s oil and gas landscape.

She has held various positions at ExxonMobil, including Deputy Country Manager for Namibia, before moving on to a global role in Europe in Public and Government Affair. Her early career also includes work with the U.S. Department of State, strengthening U.S.-Namibian relations. Academically, Itembu holds a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Psychology from St. Francis Xavier University. Her transition into Zephyr Marine Services reflects a deliberate move toward building Namibian-led solutions.

“I am deeply grateful for my time at ExxonMobil, which provided an exceptional platform for growth, learning and professional development. The experience, mentorship and exposure I gained have been instrumental in shaping my understanding of Namibia’s energy landscape and the broader global industry. I leave with immense appreciation for the opportunities I was given and carry those lessons forward as I take on this next chapter,” Itembu said.

The launch of Zephyr Marine Services comes at a critical time for the Namibian oil and gas industry. With first oil on the cards for 2029 – led by the TotalEnergies-operated Venus and Mopane fields -, the demand for robust, locally-driven logistics, marine coordination and operational support continues to rise. TotalEnergies aims to reach FID for the Venus project in 2026 and recently signed an agreement with Galp Energia – former operator of the Mopane field – granting it operatorship of PEL 83. Under the terms of the deal, Galp will retain a stake in PEL 83 while assuming a 10% stake in the Venus project.

Other players are driving exploration activities in Namibia’s off- and onshore basins. In 2025, several milestones were achieved, including Rhino Resources’ light oil discovery at the Capricornus 1-X well in April. Chevron announced plans to embark on a 2026/2027 drilling campaign while ReconAfrica completed drilling at the Kavango West 1X well (onshore). Looking ahead, ReconAfrica plans to return to Kavango West 1X in 2026 to conduct a production test. Offshore, Shell could likely drill an exploration well at PEL 39, Chevron at PEL 82 and Rhino Resources is targeting 2 appraisal wells at Capricornus and Volans. Continued exploration across the Orange and Walvis Basins are expected through 2028, strengthening Namibia’s position as a future production hub.

Stepping into this picture, the launch of Zephyr Marine Services is expected to not only support upcoming drilling campaigns but position Namibian expertise at the heart of the country’s next development phase. Offering tailored, efficient and reliable solutions designed specifically for Namibia’s evolving offshore ecosystem, the company represents more than a service provider, but a broader shift toward local participation, innovation and ownership in the country’s energy value chain. Zephyr Marine Services is looking at building real industrial capability in Namibia, taking on high-barrier entry services and supporting the country’s move toward first oil production.

“This is about building something meaningful for Namibia. Zephyr Marine Services is rooted in the belief that Namibians should not only participate in our country’s energy future but actively shape it. We are creating solutions that understand local realities, respond to local challenges and contribute to long-term national growth,” said Itembu.

The company’s mission is clear: to support Namibia’s growing maritime and offshore industries with efficient, reliable and locally driven marine logistics solutions. From vessel coordination and asset management to operational planning, Zephyr Marine Services is positioning itself as a critical link between upstream operators and on-the-ground execution.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.