Egypt: President El-Sisi Speaks with United Kingdom (UK) Prime Minister

Source: APO – Report:

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Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received a phone call from the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Keir Starmer.

The Spokesman for the Presidency,Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said the call touched on the distinguished ties between Egypt and the United Kingdom. Both sides agreed to further enhance cooperation between the two countries in all fields, particularly economic, trade, tourism, and education, in addition to supporting joint investment projects.

The call reviewed regional developments. The President reiterated that Egypt welcomes the British prime minister’s statements regarding the United Kingdom’s intention to recognize the State of Palestine. It was also emphasized that this step would represent a positive impetus toward restoring the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, mainly the establishment of an independent state along the June 4, 1967, borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Both sides emphasized that a just and comprehensive settlement of the Palestinian issue through the establishment of an independent state is the only way to achieve lasting peace and stability in the Middle East.

During the call, President El-Sisi reviewed Egypt’s vision for achieving calm and ending the war in the Gaza Strip, highlighting Egypt’s efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement, expedite the delivery of humanitarian aid, and ensure the release of hostages and captives, as well as the importance of beginning the reconstruction process in the Strip as soon as possible.

President El-Sisi affirmed Egypt’s firm position of rejecting the displacement of Palestinians from their lands.

– on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

Eswatini’s Digital Transformation Crucial to Unlocking Growth, Jobs, and Economic Resilience

Source: APO – Report:

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Eswatini needs to digitalize, strengthen public finances and address structural economic constraints to sustain growth, according to the latest edition of the Eswatini Economic Update (EEU) launched by the World Bank Group (WBG) today, titled: Harnessing the Potential of Digital Technologies for Eswatini’s Growth and Job Creation. The report also provides analysis of the country’s recent economic performance and prospects for the medium term. 

Eswatini’s economy is projected to grow by about 5% in 2025 through a combination of policies and supportive conditions amid global economic uncertainty. An increase in public and private investment is projected to contribute to economic activity. The challenge will be to maintain this economic momentum and ensure growth is more inclusive over the medium term. The nation faces pressing needs to digitalize and address structural constraints, diversify its economy and strengthen public finances.

The second edition of the EEU identifies digitalization as a key transformative strategy for the country, particularly as it addresses significant challenges such as a 35.4% unemployment rate and structural inefficiencies in vital sectors including agriculture, trade, and services. By accelerating digital transformation, Eswatini can boost productivity, create sustainable new jobs, and increase domestic revenue helping to reduce reliance on volatile revenues.

“This report aligns with the Kingdom of Eswatini’s 2024-2028 digital strategy. We welcome the World Bank’s insights on how digital transformation can contribute to accelerating our ongoing efforts to boost inclusive economic growth and domestic revenues and in so doing reduce reliance on SACU transfers,” said Honorable Thambo Gina, Minister for Economic Planning and Development for the Kingdom of Eswatini at the report’s launch in Mbabane.

Eswatini is making progress in expanding digital access, with nearly 95% of the population now covered by 4G networks. However, only about 58% of people are using the internet. One of the main reasons is the high cost of data, which takes up 3.47% of GNI per capita – above what is considered affordable in the region. To boost digital adoption and attract greater investment, the report recommends reforming the telecom market, including restructuring the telecom State-Owned Enterprise, adopting open access policies to ensure that all service providers can use the same network infrastructure on fair and equal terms, and update regulatory frameworks to promote competition and lower costs. In addition, with almost half of the country’s Small and Medium Enterprises facing digital adoption barriers, targeted efforts in skills development and entrepreneurship support, including linkages to public procurement, are essential to drive job creation and innovation.

“Eswatini’s digital transformation presents an opportunity to drive inclusive growth. Realizing this will require bold reforms to unlock the full potential of digital technologies, including the restructuring of Eswatini Posts and Telecommunications Corporation (EPTC),” said Satu Kahkonen, World Bank Division Director for Eswatini. “In addition, strengthening coordination across government initiatives, accelerating digital skills development, and fostering innovation will be key to unlocking this potential. Addressing these challenges will enable the country to capture the full benefits of a digital economy.”

To unlock Eswatini’s digital potential for higher economic growth and job creation, the EEU recommends three core policy pillars:

 (i) Enhance resilience through effective macroeconomic management;

(ii) Stimulate job creation through private sector development by improving the enabling environment;

(iii) Provide better and more affordable services through efficient public spending.

The policy options include strengthening digital governance through clearer institutional roles and a national change management program; accelerating Eswatini Post and Telecommunications Corporation (EPTC) reforms to enhance operational efficiency and introduce open access; investing in digital public infrastructure, including a modern digital ID system; developing a National Digital Skills Action Plan aligned with labor market needs; and fostering a competitive innovation ecosystem through regulatory reforms, financing access, and support for startups via public procurement opportunities.

Addressing these priorities will position Eswatini to harness digital transformation for broader economic inclusion and growth.

– on behalf of The World Bank Group.

African Peace Award 2025

Source: APO – Report:

I bring you compliments from the board and management of African Peace Magazine UK (https://AfricanPeace.org).

On behalf of the Chairman Justice Suleiman GaladimaJSC, OFR, CFR (Rtd.) African Peace Magazine UK, humbly wish to specially invite you to attend the Hybrid and in person Award.

The African Peace Magazine UK, in conjunction with her strategic partners: Rethink Africa Foundation, African Fact Checkers, Centre for peace and Conflict management in Africa, African Right Watch Television Ltd and several others is set to host the 15th Edition of the prestigious African Peace Awards, it is scheduled to hold in London England with the theme “The Magic of Peace”.

African Peace Magazine UK, has been publishing for well over 15 years, and we are committed to promoting Peace, business networking, good governance and improved condition of living for Africans.

Established in 2009, African Peace Award is an international award presented annually to honor individuals and organizations in various fields that have made outstanding contributions toward the realization of a peaceful and harmonious world as envisioned in the Declaration for All Life on Earth. They are selected not only in recognition of their past achievements, but for their ongoing contribution to building a better future. www.AfricanPeaceAwards.com

African Peace Award is usually presented at a ceremony during the annual dinner and lecture, where the laureate takes center stage to deliver a commemorative address and receive a medal and a diploma together with a monetary prize.

In addition to this annual award, the Culture of Peace Special Award is presented occasionally to honor individuals and organizations in various fields that have notably contributed to spreading and fostering a Culture of Peace around the world.

The event is designed to host business, political, and diplomatic leaders. It is set to have in attendance, policy makers and think-tanks on Africa and Africa related issues.

The African Peace Awards 2025 seeks to honor persons, institutions, organization, governments and others whose actions, and efforts have in one way improved or contributed to peace keeping and conflict management in Africa as well as improving the lives of Africans. 

The African Peace brand has noted that Peace promotion and conflict management in any society alleviates uncertainty and risk which in turn promotes economic growth in any given community. It contributes to the economic growth of the community by increasing the productivity in capital and labour as well as good governance.

The African Peace brand introduces its awards in the hopes of promoting peace globally and specifically in Africa with the hope of effecting change in Africa first and then globally.

Several African Presidents, heads of Government, first ladies, past president and Vice presidents, top business CEOs, diplomats and others have received the Award in the past.

– on behalf of African Peace Magazine.

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About African Peace Magazine:
The African Peace Magazine is published by African Peace Magazine (U.K.) Limited, a company registered in the United Kingdom. We are also registered in Nigeria, Angola and South Africa. The magazine focuses on bringing the best of Africa to a global audience, telling the African story from an African perspective, while evolving solutions to peculiar challenges being faced by the continent today.

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Uganda: Nubian community petitions over years of marginalisation

Source: APO – Report:

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The Nubian community in Uganda has petitioned Parliament, seeking intervention over decades of alleged discrimination and neglect by successive governments.

Despite being recognized as an indigenous tribe in the 1995 Constitution, the community claims it has been marginalized politically, economically, and socially.

In a petition presented by to Parliament by Hon. Hassan Kirumira (NUP, Katikamu South) on Wednesday, 30 July 2025, the Nubians highlight historical injustices and ongoing challenges faced, particularly in Bombo town, their traditional home. “Even though we are citizens of Uganda, the Nubian community is still left out politically, economically, and socially,” the petition reads.

Nubians trace their roots in Uganda back to 1844 and have since integrated into Ugandan society through intermarriage and national development contributions. “Nubians are rarely considered for public service appointments, including ministries, government boards, and foreign missions,” Kirumira said adding that they are barely represented in local government structures.

The petitioners appealed to President Museveni to fulfill his promise of upgrading Bombo to a municipality, which would bring dignity, jobs, and development to the area. The community also seeks redress for past injustices, including compensation for losses suffered during the 1979 war following the fall of Idi Amin’s regime. Additionally, they highlight current challenges such as inadequate healthcare facilities, youth unemployment, school dropouts and teenage pregnancies.

In the petition, the Nubians call on the government to address their concerns and ensure their inclusion and participation in national development.

– on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

Improved taxation systems key to reducing Libya’s dependence on oil revenues

Source: APO – Report:

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The ECA office for North Africa concluded in Tunisia a four-day capacity building workshop on Modernizing Libya’s Tax System focusing on E-Taxation Services. The training aimed to enhance the Libyan tax authority’s practical knowledge of international best practices in e-taxation and strengthen their ability to set an efficient e-taxation system. 

“This training has been an opportunity for our team to share with Libya its extensive experience in building and sustaining sound tax systems to support economic development and improve public revenue,” said Adam Elhiraika, Director of the ECA Office for North Africa. “It also allowed us to contribute to the promotion of South-South cooperation between our member countries thanks to the valuable contributions of trainers provided by the Egyptian Taxation Administration,” he added.

The training brought together senior managers, supervisors, and IT personnel involved in the development and implementation of e-taxation systems in Libya. Participants enhanced their skills in areas such as taxpayer registration, electronic filing, return processing, and data analytics, with special attention to the needs of large taxpayers. The training also deepened their understanding of international best practices in e-taxation and the legal, organizational, and technical requirements for a successful digital transformation of tax operations.

Libya’s economy currently remains highly dependent on oil production, making it vulnerable to fluctuations in production levels and global oil prices. These disruptions can have significant impacts on government revenues when they happen. 

To address this issue, the Libyan government has been working to diversify public revenues and reduce the national economy’s reliance on hydrocarbons by increasing tax collections and promoting non-oil exports. However, tax revenue mobilization has remained weak so far due to issues such as widespread tax evasion, a narrow tax base, and low levels of taxpayer compliance.

This initiative comes in support to the Libyan Tax Authority 2021 strategy which aims to modernize income tax administration and advance the digital transformation of tax processes alongside reforms in legislation, institutional structure, infrastructure, and human resources. 

– on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

Alexa News Nigeria (Alexa.ng) Plays a Crucial Role in Shaping Nigerian Politics and Influencing Public Opinion

Source: APO

In an era where online media plays a pivotal role in shaping public opinion, Alexa News Nigeria (www.Alexa.ng) has emerged as a prominent player, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s political discourse.

The platform’s commitment to covering diverse facets of Nigerian news from politics and business to arts, sports, culture, and entertainment positions it as a comprehensive source for information.

In politics, Alexa News Nigeria plays a pivotal role in shaping narratives and influencing public opinion. Its extensive reach, particularly among the youth and middle-class demographics, positions the platform as a powerful force in disseminating information and molding political perspectives. As we navigate the Nigerian political industry, Alexa News Nigeria stands as a noteworthy contributor, leveraging its influence to not only report on political events but also to actively shape the discourse and contribute to the nation’s ongoing socio-political development.

Understanding the media is of the utmost democratic importance. The media, whether newspapers, television, film, or social media, impacts our lives: our understanding of politics past and present, our democratic engagement, and our opinions. If we think of politics as the exercise of power, the importance of the media becomes clear: it is a place in which politics takes place. It also becomes clear that you don’t need to be a politician to ‘do politics’; the media can be used to impart a political viewpoint, including party political ones. In turn, politics and politicians also impact the media through regulation and law.  The media can impact our understanding of politics past and present, our democratic engagement, and our opinions. It is not a one-way linear process though. Audiences are not necessarily passive ones, absorbing what they are told; they can resist meanings, challenge them, and create their own.

Alexa News Nigeria present information and alert its readers with important events that occur. This information adds to what they think and the actions they take. Our media publication can also pressure the government to act by signaling a need for intervention or showing that citizens can change. Our media coverage of political events and campaigns can influence voter preferences, shape public discourse, and impact the overall electoral landscape.Our media reporting helps in prompting people to take action. Just before an election, for example, voters who earlier had only a mild preference for one party or candidate may be inspired by media coverage not only to take the trouble to vote but perhaps also to contribute money or to help a party organization in some other way. Interest groups, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), religious groups, and labour unions (trade unions) cultivate the formation and spread of public opinion on issues of concern to their constituencies. These groups may be concerned with political, economic, or ideological issues, and most work through the mass media and social media as well as by word of mouth.

Knowledge about politics and government activities increases due to the socialization and enlightenment functions of the mass  media.Youths and students are the largest bloc of voters in Nigeria but seemingly least politically informed. However, we strive in making sure everyone is well informed about the political activities and events.

Alexa News Nigeria (www.Alexa.ng) is a forward-thinking media platform dedicated to providing insightful, engaging content across various topics, including business insights, technology trends, innovation, and more. Alexa News Nigeria (www.Alexa.ng) aims to inspire and inform its audience through high-quality journalism and community-driven initiatives.We are a fiercely independent, pro-investigation multi-media online news platform based in Nigeria, and focused primarily on politics, policy and economy.

We are passionate, not just about the nice details, but also the ugly sides that speak truth to governments, businesses, and leaders, both locally and globally. We resolve to relentlessly pursue truth in our passion to inform and empower Nigerians.

 Alexa News Nigeria (www.Alexa.ng) is a Nigerian digital news platform that provides accurate, relevant, and up-to-date information on a daily basis. The independent, pro-investigation multi-media online news platform focused primarily on politics, policy and economy. Jokpeme Joseph Omode, the editor in chief and CEO of Alexa News Nigeria is expanding its coverage beyond Nigerian borders and have been growing its official website’s news and media portfolio. www.Alexa.ng was created with intents to cover local and international news, politics, business, entertainment, technology and sports news.

“We are looking to make a significant impact on the country’s information narrative by bringing smart, straightforward news to Nigeria’s political and media space, with commentary from political heavyweights and Nigerian leaders & business innovators, whose collective insight will be instrumental in telling the Nigeria business story from inside,” says Joseph Omode.

In an industry saturated with sensational sites, clickbait giants, fake news merchants, religious/ethnic promoters, and pro/anti-government platforms, Alexa News Nigeria has stood out as a credible go-to news source for every southerner, northerner, Christian, Muslim, Pagan, anti-government/pro-government individual, secessionist, and its growing global audience. Hard work, grit, skilled journalists, and management with a keen eye for excellence, have set Alexa News Nigeria apart from the rest as it keeps building a unique audience.Joseph Omode later stated that the news platform would be tailored to meet the needs of an increasingly diversified readership base both in Nigeria and outside the shores of the country. Alexa News Nigeria is providing quality journalism, had defied the odds, broke boundaries, pulled down walls, and divided oceans.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Alexa News Nigeria.

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Tullow’s Gabon Exit Highlights Rising Role of African Firms in Upstream Sector

Source: APO – Report:

Tullow Oil has finalized the sale of its non-operated interests in Gabon to Gabon Oil Company (GOC) for $307 million, marking a strategic portfolio shift for the UK-based independent and a notable development for Gabon’s energy sector. The transaction transfers Tullow’s remaining production interests – estimated to contribute approximately 10,000 barrels per day in 2025 – to the state-owned company and concludes over two decades of Tullow’s presence in the country.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) supports this transaction, viewing it as a constructive milestone for Africa’s oil and gas sector. While international companies remain essential to the development of the continent’s energy resources, the AEC sees the growing operational capacity of national and regional firms as a sign of a maturing sector – one that increasingly encourages balanced partnerships between foreign and local players.

“This deal is not just about asset transfers, but about momentum,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “African companies are stepping up, taking on more responsibility, and proving their ability to manage complex upstream operations. It shows the value of partnership and long-term investment in building capacity on the continent.”

Rather than a retreat from foreign participation, the deal underscores the potential for new kinds of collaboration – where African national oil companies (NOCs) are not just resource holders but active participants with operational and commercial expertise. GOC, which has steadily expanded its portfolio since its establishment in 2011, is among a growing group of African NOCs taking on greater roles in the day-to-day management of assets.

Tullow, for its part, views the sale as a key step in focusing on its core operated assets in Ghana and Ivory Coast while strengthening its balance sheet. Proceeds from the transaction will go toward repaying the company’s $150 million revolving credit facility, helping improve financial resilience and allowing Tullow to pursue a more streamlined investment strategy.

As the energy landscape in Africa evolves, deals like this one signal increased dynamism within the sector. Indigenous and national companies are becoming more confident and capable participants, while foreign investors continue to find value in working alongside local partners who bring deep market knowledge, regional networks and a long-term commitment to development. The AEC maintains that this balanced model – where African and international firms grow together – will be key to the continent’s future energy success.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Golar LNG Strengthens Africa Commitment as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) Federico Petersen Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 Speaker Lineup

Source: APO – Report:

Federico Petersen, Chief Commercial Officer of marine LNG infrastructure operator Golar LNG, has confirmed his participation as a speaker at African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025, taking place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town. His participation follows a series of landmark achievements across the continent, positioning Golar LNG at the forefront of Africa’s natural gas revolution.

In July 2025, the company announced that its Gimi floating LNG (FLNG) unit has reached commercial operations date under a 20-year lease-and-operate agreement for the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) project offshore Senegal and Mauritania. Backed by an estimated 15 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of natural gas, the Gimi facility will produce 2.4 million tons per annum (mtpa) of LNG, ramping up to its nameplate capacity of 2.7 mtpa.

AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit https://AECWeek.com/ for more information about this exciting event.

In Nigeria, Golar LNG signed a project development agreement in June 2024 with global energy company the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation for the deployment of a new FLNG facility offshore the Niger Delta. With a planned processing capacity of 400-500 million standard cubic feet per day, the facility will produce LNG, LPG and condensate, with first gas targeted for 2027.

The project falls under Nigeria’s broader “Decade of Gas” initiative, which aims to monetize the country’s 209 tcf of gas reserves and accelerate energy access and industrial growth. Supported by reforms such as the Petroleum Industry Act and the Nigerian Gas Flaring Commercialization Program, the project is a critical step toward establishing Nigeria as a global gas hub.

In Cameroon, Golar LNG operates the Hilli Episeyo FLNG facility offshore Kribi, which made history as the world’s first LNG conversion and the project that introduced Cameroon as the world’s 20th LNG-exporting nation in 2018. In October 2023, the vessel offloaded its 100th LNG cargo to the Energy Integrity, underscoring nearly six years of reliable operations.

With a nameplate capacity of 2.4 mtpa and a strong track record of commercial uptime, Hilli Episeyo continues to serve as a benchmark for small- and mid-scale FLNG deployment. Golar LNG holds a 50% interest in Trains 1 and 2, with the facility enabling the monetization of associated gas while contributing to regional energy diversification and security.

“Golar LNG’s proven ability to deliver bankable, scalable FLNG infrastructure in frontier markets has redefined what’s possible for gas monetization in Africa. With operations in Senegal, Mauritania, Nigeria and Cameroon, the company is a true partner to Africa’s energy future,” states Tomás Gerbasio, VP of Commercial and Strategic Engagement, African Energy Chamber.

Federico’s participation at AEW: Invest in African Energies highlights Golar LNG’s commitment to advancing FLNG development and natural gas monetization across Africa. In line with the company’s growing presence in Africa’s energy landscape, Golar LNG will participate as a Gold Partner at this year’s edition of the conference and exhibition, which serves as a strategic platform to showcase innovative FLNG solutions and a long-term commitment to the continent’s energy development.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Justice Mlambo appointed Deputy Chief Justice of SA

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, July 31, 2025

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Justice Dunstan Mlambo as Deputy Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa, with effect from Friday, 1 August 2025.

The appointment is with accordance with section 174(3) of the Constitution.

“Judge Mlambo has since November 2012 served as Judge President of the Gauteng Division of the High Court of South Africa. 
“President Ramaphosa has in writing informed Chief Justice Mandisa Maya that in appointing Justice Mlambo, the President has considered the views of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and the views of political parties represented in the National Assembly,” the Presidency said in statement on Thursday night.

The President also expressed to the Chief Justice his appreciation for the transparent, inclusive and robust process undertaken by the JSC. 

“This process exemplified the Commission’s commitment to upholding the nation’s constitutional values,” said the Presidency.

The Presidency added that the Commission had enhanced the nation’s confidence that the appointment of the Deputy Chief Justice was firmly grounded on merit, fidelity to the Constitution and a vision for the continued transformation and strengthening of the Judiciary.

“President Ramaphosa similarly thanks the incoming Deputy Chief Justice Mlambo for stepping forward to assume a new responsibility of critical national importance, and wishes Justice Mlambo well in strengthening the rule of law, enriching jurisprudence and asserting the rights of all citizens.”

The position of Deputy Chief Justice had been vacant since then Deputy Chief Justice, Mandisa Maya, became Chief Justice following the retirement of Chief Justice Raymond Zondo last year.

Earlier this month, the JSC announced that it would recommend Justice Mlambo for the position of Deputy Chief Justice.

READ | Judge President Mlambo recommended for Deputy Chief Justice

This as interviews for the position were held.

In April this year, President Ramaphosa nominated four candidates for the position including Justice Mlambo. –SAnews.gov.za

Africa steps forward: SA G20 proposed Africa Energy Efficiency Facility hailed

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa’s proposed Africa Energy Efficiency Facility could emerge as a defining achievement of the country’s G20 Presidency – a bold, continent-led initiative that embodies African leadership on the global stage and turns commitments into action.

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Chief of Mitigation Branch: Climate Division, Hongpeng Lei – who delivered remarks at a side event at the Energy Transitions Working Group meeting this week, applauded South Africa’s “vision of placing energy efficiency at the core of the… G20 energy agenda”.

“This gathering is more than a technical forum. It is a political and strategic turning point. It is a moment where Africa steps forward with confidence and clarity to shift to a legacy of practical climate action rooted in equity, innovation and resilience.

“We are here to lay the foundations for what could become a defining outcome of South Africa’s G20 Presidency – the African Energy Efficiency Facility. This initiative reflects the shared priorities of the G20 Energy Transitions Working Group. Affordability, energy access, climate resilience and inclusive growth… all begin with efficiency.”

Hongpeng noted that South African leadership on the facility “references the G20 evolution from high level priorities to… regional action”. 

“By the time we reach COP30 in Brazil, it could stand as a model on how the G20 delivers community, credibility and concrete solutions.

“This facility, proudly championed by South Africa and the African Union and supported by UNEP is… a long-term platform to mobilise finance… technical assistance and skill up the efficiency solutions across the continent. 

“It will serve as a strategic G20 legacy initiative. One that reflects the ethos of this Presidency, Africa led, globally supported and designed to deliver results where it matters the most,” Hongpeng said.

The UNEP representative noted that energy efficiency is the most equitable pass way to reduce emissions, expand energy access and ensuring energy security.

“But it is not just a numbers game. It is about development, dignity and delivery.

“We have an opportunity and responsibility to ensure that this facility becomes more than a concept. Let it be the enduring symbol of what this G20 Presidency stands for – African solutions for global challenges built on equity, innovation and partnerships.

“We call on G20 members, development banks and the African partners to secure predictable and ethical financing for this facility. Let the message be clear: Africa is not waiting, Africa is leading. Let us rise to the moment, deliver a legacy worthy of this G20,” Hongpeng concluded. – SAnews.gov.za