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Trailblazing young teacher transforms school administration

Source: Government of South Africa

Trailblazing young teacher transforms school administration

By Sihle Manda

When Sipho Manzini completed matric in 2007, he envisioned a life as a geologist. Growing up on a farm near White River in Mpumalanga, he never imagined that he would one day become an award-winning educator whose innovation would help transform the way teachers work in schools.

Today, the Mfuleni High School teacher is the developer of WebAdmin, an artificial intelligence-(AI) powered digital platform that is helping educators streamline administrative tasks, improve organisation and integrate technology into their daily work. His innovation earned him national recognition at the 2025 National Batho Pele and Innovation Awards, where he received the bronze award in the category of Innovations Harnessing Technology for Frontline Services. He also received the Special Ministerial Award – Public Sector Trailblazers.

The awards, hosted by the Department of Public Service and Administration and the Centre for Public Service Innovation, recognise public servants who go beyond the call of duty to advance front-line service delivery through innovation, ethical conduct and dedication.

For Manzini, however, the journey to this achievement began far from the bright lights of the awards stage.

Humble beginnings

Born and raised in Mbombela, he attended primary school on a farm, but because there was no nearby high school, he had to relocate to the village of Mgaduzweni, situated between White River and Hazyview, where he completed his secondary education.

After matriculating, he secured admission at Stellenbosch University in 2010, where he pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in geology.

“In my final year, we had a programming module. I liked it and, after I graduated, I decided to take it further and explore the technology space,” he recalls.

Although he graduated in 2016 with aspirations of becoming a geologist, the path ahead proved challenging. He had a short-lived stint working in the industry before attempting entrepreneurship, which ultimately did not succeed.

“I was advised that I could do a PGCE [Postgraduate Certificate in Education], which would allow me to become an educator.”

In 2020, he enrolled in the PGCE – a decision that would ultimately change the course of his career. Two years later, he completed a postgraduate qualification in Business Administration and entered the teaching profession.

His transition into education was eye-opening.

“The teaching journey has been very interesting. Every day I get to deal with the different personalities of teenagers. It is a different world to the one I was anticipating when I pursued my degree.”

Outdated systems

What struck Manzini most was how little school administrative processes had changed over the years. The profession, he realised, still operated much as it had when he himself was a learner – with paper-heavy, manual systems that often made the work feel disorganised and difficult to manage. Rather than accept that as the norm, he saw an opportunity to use his technical skills to improve the way schools functioned.

That realisation planted the seed for what would later become WebAdmin – a digital system that could bring greater structure and organisation to everyday school processes.

What started as a simple idea gradually evolved into a comprehensive solution. Drawing on the programming skills he had developed after university, Manzini spent nearly two years building the platform.

“It was not a fully fledged idea from the start. It was very small. It just kept growing and growing until I had a fully developed digital system.”

Innovative solutions

The AI-powered platform gives educators access to digital workstations through their smartphones or laptops, making daily administrative tasks far easier to manage. Integrated with a customised smart card – also developed by Manzini – the system allows teachers to handle class registers, staff attendance, learner activities and a range of other administrative functions from one central platform.

By reducing the school’s reliance on paperwork, the platform has made administration more efficient, accessible and organised.

What began at Mfuleni High School has since grown into a wider district initiative. The platform is now being used in 13 schools across the Metro North District, with more than 250 teachers actively using it to improve teaching and streamline their workflow.

But despite its success, the journey has not been without obstacles.

According to Manzini, one of the biggest challenges has been encouraging educators to move away from long-established paper-based systems and embrace a new way of working.

“I may have developed the system, but on the ground it is very hard to get other schools to buy into it or make them understand that there might be a better alternative to paper”.

*This article first appeared in Public Sector Magazine
 

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South Africa at the forefront of HIV prevention innovation

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa at the forefront of HIV prevention innovation

By Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi

The introduction of Lenacapavir for HIV prevention in South Africa represents the culmination of more than a decade of strategic leadership and health system strengthening led by the National Department of Health. South Africa has been one of the few countries globally to make antiretroviral-based pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) available as part of the Essential Medicines List and integrated within the country’s public primary healthcare (PHC) system. 

The rollout of Lenacapavir, therefore, does not represent a stand-alone intervention, but rather builds on a strong and mature HIV prevention platform that has progressively expanded access to HIV prevention services across the country.

In 2016, the Department of Health adopted a bold and pioneering approach to HIV prevention by introducing oral PrEP. By 2021, South Africa had successfully scaled oral PrEP across the public health sector, even as many countries were still debating its feasibility, affordability and implementation in routine health services. Today, more than 2.2 million South Africans have been initiated on oral PrEP through public sector programmes.

Government recognised early that ending new HIV infections would require not only the expansion of HIV treatment, but also sustained investment in innovative HIV prevention technologies that empower people to protect themselves from HIV.

This strategic vision positioned the country as a global leader in HIV prevention innovation and laid the foundation for the introduction of next-generation long-acting prevention options such as Lenacapavir.

We have made efforts in ensuring that oral PrEP was integrated into routine PHC services, ensuring that HIV prevention became part of comprehensive healthcare that includes HIV testing services, sexual and reproductive health services, sexually transmitted infection management, TB screening, maternal and child health services, and linkage to HIV treatment and care.

The introduction of Lenacapavir now builds directly on this solid foundation. South Africa’s established PHC infrastructure, trained healthcare workforce, HIV prevention guidelines, supply chain systems, monitoring platforms and community mobilisation networks created the enabling environment necessary for the rapid introduction of long-acting HIV prevention technologies. Without the earlier strategic investments in oral PrEP and integrated prevention services, the country would not have been positioned to move so quickly towards implementing Lenacapavir at scale.

Lenacapavir represents a major scientific breakthrough in HIV prevention. Unlike daily oral PrEP, Lenacapavir is administered as two injections every six months, offering individuals a highly effective long-acting prevention option that reduces the burden of daily pill-taking and may improve adherence and convenience for many users. Clinical trials demonstrated unprecedented effectiveness in preventing HIV infection, leading to global recognition of Lenacapavir as one of the most important advances in HIV prevention in recent years.

Through coordinated engagement with regulatory authorities, researchers, international partners, provincial health departments and civil society, we have overseen the introduction of Lenacapavir into the public health system as part of a broader combination HIV prevention programme.

Importantly, we have consistently emphasised that Lenacapavir is an additional HIV prevention choice rather than a replacement for existing prevention methods. 

This reflects South Africa’s broader prevention philosophy of informed choice and combination prevention, recognising that different individuals require different prevention options at different stages of their lives. By expanding prevention choices, we are ensuring that more people can access prevention methods that suit their circumstances and preferences.

The significance of Lenacapavir extends beyond the introduction of a new medicine. It signals the next phase in the evolution of HIV prevention and strengthens South Africa’s efforts to end new HIV infections. Long-acting prevention technologies have the potential to overcome many of the adherence and access barriers associated with daily prevention methods, particularly among populations most vulnerable to HIV infection, including adolescent girls and young women, sex workers, men who have sex with men, transgender persons, and pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Government will continue to mobilise resources and strengthen partnerships to support the rollout of this game-changer as part of our ongoing efforts to prevent new HIV infections in our country. 

South Africa’s approach reflects a balanced model of domestic ownership and catalytic international support. While development partners have assisted with catalytic support for the early introduction of Lenacapavir, I reaffirm government’s commitment to long-term sustainability and future domestic financing as more affordable generic products become available.

By building on the strong foundation established through the national oral PrEP programme, South Africa is undoubtedly positioned to once again lead globally in expanding equitable access to life-saving HIV prevention technologies and accelerating progress towards ending new HIV infections.

*This article first appeared in Public Sector Manager Magazine

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Rebuilding public trust through delivery and accountability

Source: Government of South Africa

Rebuilding public trust through delivery and accountability

By Nomonde Mnukwa, Acting GCIS Director-General

The month of July is dedicated to honouring the enduring legacy of our first democratic President Nelson Mandela, whose life was defined by selfless service to the people of South Africa. This annual observance is not just a symbolic tribute but is a reminder of the values that should guide every public servant.

Madiba’s legacy calls on us to demonstrate, through our actions, a steadfast commitment to serving the public with integrity, accountability and compassion. It reminds us that government’s legitimacy is earned not through words, but through tangible action that protects human dignity, advances accountability and places people at the centre of every decision.

These values are firmly rooted in the principles of Batho Pele, which call on us to listen actively, communicate clearly, act with professionalism and courtesy, uphold service standards and provide redress where we fall short.

At a time when citizen confidence in public institutions is under increasing pressure, our responsibility as public servants should move from commitment to credible delivery and from intention to visible impact.

We must also make deliberate use of the monitoring and evaluation mechanisms already in place across government to identify gaps and strengthen performance where it does not meet the required standards. One such mechanism is the National Quantitative Tracker Report produced by the GCIS, which provides critical insights to guide evidence-based decision-making. 

The latest National Quantitative Tracker Report (Quarter 4, 2025/26) presents a sobering reflection of public sentiment. It indicates that 79% of respondents believe the country is moving in the wrong direction, while only 18% hold a positive view. This underscores the need for strengthened communication and increased visibility of government interventions and service delivery outcomes.

This finding must be understood as a clear call to action. Citizens are forming their judgments based on lived experience – whether services are reliable, whether leadership is visible, whether institutions are responsive and whether government acts with integrity and urgency.

As we prepare for the 2026 Local Government Elections, rebuilding public trust must become a deliberate and sustained programme of action across the public sector. While elections remain a cornerstone of our democracy, trust is strengthened every day through services that function effectively, institutions that listen and respond, and public servants who consistently uphold the dignity of those they serve.

For citizens to actively participate in democratic processes, they must have confidence that these processes deliver meaningful benefits in their everyday lives.

For many South Africans, government is experienced most directly through the services that shape daily life – clean water, sanitation, refuse removal, electricity, safe roads, clinics, schools, housing administration, and responsive public offices. When these services are reliable and accessible, they affirm dignity and reinforce confidence in the capability of the State. When they fail, frustration deepens and public trust is eroded.

The findings from the Tracker Report reinforces the close relationship. Encouragingly, citizens continue to recognise progress in several key service areas, with 50% expressing positive views on access to clean drinking water, 49% on solid waste removal, and 47% on the reliability of electricity supply.

However, the findings also highlight critical areas requiring attention. Confidence in the maintenance of municipal infrastructure remains low at 35%, while perceptions of community inclusion and consultation in development processes stand at just 31%.

These findings reveal an important reality – service delivery is not only about the provision of infrastructure. It is equally about consistent maintenance, clear and continuous communication, institutional responsiveness, and the extent to which communities feel heard and included in decisions that affect their lives.

Public trust in institutions remains under pressure, particularly at local government level. 

This points to the need for a coordinated government-wide response that focuses on improving service delivery outcomes, strengthening accountability, demonstrating responsive leadership, and communicating progress more effectively. Public confidence is unlikely to improve through messaging alone; it must be reinforced by visible improvements in the quality of services and the lived experiences of citizens.

The Tracker Report identifies important areas of strength that demonstrate government’s capacity to deliver meaningful outcomes. Public approval remains relatively stronger in the provision of social grants, efforts to combat and treat HIV and AIDS and TB, and the delivery of basic education.

These achievements show that sustained progress is possible when systems are well-coordinated, implementation is focused and institutions are held accountable for results. The challenge now is to replicate these success factors in areas where public confidence remains low, particularly in addressing corruption and crime, maintaining critical infrastructure and improving the quality and responsiveness of frontline services.

These findings reinforce the importance of building a capable, ethical and developmental state. A capable state plans effectively, maintains infrastructure, uses data to solve problems and equips public servants with the skills and necessary support to deliver. An ethical state acts decisively against corruption, protects public resources and enforces consequence management. A developmental state reduces inequality, expands opportunity and ensures that no one is left behind.

Government interventions, such as the ongoing review of the White Paper on Local Government are therefore critical reform opportunities to address the root causes of municipal dysfunction and strengthen the sphere closest to communities. This review presents a timely chance to align policy with the realities faced by municipalities on the ground. The White Paper must support a system that is fit for purpose, financially sustainable, professionally led and accountable.

Most importantly, it must translate into measurable improvements in citizens’ lived experience, including better governance, stronger accountability, improved infrastructure management, more meaningful community participation and more reliable service delivery.

Citizens also hold clear views on the type and quality of leadership demonstrated by public servants. The Tracker Report indicates that only 29% of citizens believe that premiers and mayors are performing their duties effectively, while just 27% feel that ward councillors are doing their jobs well, reflecting relatively low levels of public confidence. 

These ratings can improve if public leadership becomes more visible, accessible and accountable. 

Despite low levels of trust in institutions and government performance, a majority of South Africans continue to demonstrate resilience and hope. The Tracker Report shows that 51% of South Africans remain proud to be South African and 58% are confident about a shared, positive future. This national pride provides a vital foundation for renewal. 

As we mark Mandela Month, let us recommit to the discipline of delivery. Public trust is not rebuilt through promises made – but through promises kept in every ward, every service centre, every repaired road, every functioning tap and every citizen treated with dignity. The task before us is clear: to translate hope into action and action into results that improve the lives of all South Africans.

Batho Pele! 

*This article first appeared in Public Sector Magazine

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Eskom continues progress under Generation Recovery Plan

Source: Government of South Africa

Eskom continues progress under Generation Recovery Plan

Eskom has recorded 420 days without the implementation of load shedding.

“South Africa has recorded 420 consecutive days without load shedding since 16 May 2025. During the previous financial year, supply interruptions were limited to 26 hours across four days in April and May 2025,” Eskom said.

The power utility’s improved performance has been sustained through the Generation Recovery Plan and execution of targeted recovery initiatives across Eskom’s fleet.

“The continued increase in the Energy Availability Factor [EAF], combined with significantly lower levels of unplanned outages, is enabling Eskom to consistently deliver energy security while maintaining the operational flexibility required to manage periods of higher winter consumption.

“The sustained progress on the Generation Recovery Plan is delivering stronger performance, with the [EAF] reaching 64.82% for the financial year-to-date up from 64.29% in the previous week and significantly higher than 58.73% recorded over the same period last year, an improvement of 6.09% year-on-year.

“Compared to the corresponding period three years ago, the EAF has seen a 9.89% improvement returning 5.0GW of generating capacity, driven by a continued reduction in unplanned outages and more consistent, reliable performance across the generation fleet,” an Eskom statement read.

Last week, unplanned outages at power stations declined to some 8396MW, compared to 13 619MW during the same period last year.

This marks a reduction of 5223MW which more than the generating capacity of a large power station such as Kusile.

“This sustained improvement is also reflected in the Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor [UCLF], which significantly improved to 17.49% from 28.67% in the corresponding period last year, underscoring the continued gains achieved through Eskom’s Generation Recovery Plan.

“Between 3 and 9 July 2026, planned maintenance remains aligned with Eskom’s reliability and sustainability objectives, with the Planned Capacity Loss Factor [PCLF] averaging 9.15%, lower than 9.68% in the corresponding period last year.

“Eskom continues to maintain additional system capacity, with 3530MW in cold reserve due to excess capacity, providing further assurance of system adequacy,” the statement continued.

Expenditure on diesel – used selectively during peak demand to power Open Cycle Gas Turbines – has also declined to R796.57 million in the current financial year-to-date compared to R5.25 billion in the same period last year.

“This reflects an 84.82% reduction in diesel costs, underscoring stronger generation performance and significantly lower reliance on diesel-fired generation.

“This sustained reduction highlights both cost savings and the operational improvements achieved through Eskom’s Generation Recovery Plan, contributing to greater efficiency in system operations.

“Eskom’s Winter Outlook, published on 22 April 2026 for the period 1 April to 31 August 2026, continues to project no load shedding,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Franc Mouzabakani Takes the Helm of the Republic of Congo’s Upstream Petroleum Sector

Source: APO


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Franc Mouzabakani Kiesse has been appointed Director General for of the Upstream Petroleum Sector for the Republic of Congo. Appointed by presidential decree on June 18 and officially installed on July 9, Kiesse assumes one of the country’s most important energy leadership positions as Congo works toward increase crude production while expanding investment across its oil and gas sector.

Working alongside Minister of Hydrocarbons Stev Simplice Onanga, Kiesse will play a central role in translating the government’s upstream ambitions into execution. His appointment brings together the Ministry’s strategic vision with decades of technical, commercial and institutional experience, strengthening the government’s ability to work closely with operators, investors and the SNPC to accelerate project delivery and unlock new opportunities across the sector.

Kiesse has outlined clear strategic agenda centered on protecting national interests while improving the competitiveness of the Congolese upstream sector. His priorities include strengthening government oversight of exploration and production activities, tightening project monitoring and strengthening the auditing of petroleum development costs submitted by operators. He also pledged to maximize the state’s returns from upstream projects through stronger regulatory oversight. Kiesse emphasized promoting local content by expanding opportunities for Congolese companies and skilled professionals throughout the oil and gas value chain. He also identified the continued development of the SNPC as a priority, with the aim of building a stronger and more competitive national oil company.

These priorities come at a pivotal time for Congo’s upstream sector as the country pursues one of Africa’s most ambitious upstream expansion programs. The government has established a production target of 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) over the coming years, supported by new offshore discoveries, brownfield redevelopment programs, legislative reforms and increased investment in natural gas infrastructure. Achieving this objective will require close collaboration between government institutions and international operators while ensuring projects are delivered efficiently and generate maximum value for the Congolese economy.

With a professional journey that has provided experience across every level of Congo’s upstream sector, Kiesse is well positioned to support these efforts, having built a career that spans engineering, project development, government relations and commercial strategy. He spent more than a decade with TotalEnergies, progressing from Field Operations Engineer to Lead Process Engineer at the company’s Paris headquarters before returning to Congo to lead process studies, manage deepwater development projects and oversee joint ventures and government relations. In these roles, he worked closely with major partners including SNPC, Eni, Chevron and Woodside Energy while supervising production sharing contracts, joint venture negotiations and regulatory engagement.

Kiesse later joined Perenco Congo as a Director of Joint Ventures and Government Relations, where he managed strategic partnerships and negotiations with government authorities before becoming Director of Business development and Institutional Relations at AMMAT Global Resources. Across these positions, he developed extensive experience working with both international operators and national institutions, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the commercial, technical and regulatory dynamics shaping Congo’s petroleum industry.

An electrical engineer trained at the Ecole National Supérieure Polytechnique in Brazzaville, he also holds a Master’s degree in Economics and Management from the Università di Corsica Pasquale Paoli and an MBA From DGC Congo.

His appointment comes as investment activity continues to accelerate across the country. TotalEnergies is advancing a $500–$600 million drilling campaign following the Moho G discovery, while development progresses under the $23 billion Bango Kayo, Holmoni and Cayo agreement. Independent operators, including Perenco, Trident Energy and PetroNor, continue to expand production through new infrastructure and brownfield optimization, supporting the government’s long-term production objectives.

A major step toward strengthening upstream governance, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) welcomes this appointment as a core, strategic milestone in reinforcing the country’s position as one of Africa’s leading oil and gas investment destinations.

“We at the African Energy Chamber are hopeful that Franc Mouzabakani Kiesse’s appointment marks the beginning of an even closer partnership between government and industry,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC. “Congo has no shortage of resources or investment opportunities – the priority now is execution. With Minister Onanga setting the strategic direction and experience leaders like Kiesse driving implementation, the country is well-positioned to unlock its next phase of upstream growth.”

The Chamber believes Kiesse’s combination of technical expertise, private sector experience and government relations will strengthen the implementation of Congo’s upstream strategy. By supporting Minister Onanga’s agenda, advancing local content, fostering closer cooperation between government and industry, and maintaining an attractive investment environment, his leadership is expected to play an important role making Congo an even more attractive destination for energy investment.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Wanted suspects arrested during track and tracing raids

Source: Government of South Africa

Wanted suspects arrested during track and tracing raids

The South African Police (SAPS) has arrested 308 wanted suspects during track and tracing raids conducted by detectives as part of weekly planned Operation Shanela. 

“The police arrested 22 suspects wanted in connection with rape cases, 10 for sexual offences, seven suspects for murder cases, 11 for attempted murder and 67 for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm were apprehended and will appear in different courts soon,” the police said in a statement.

Over 1 015 suspects were arrested during high density deployments, as the multidisciplinary integrated forces carried out the following policing actions:

● High visibility patrols (5 350).

● Stop-and-search (13 227).

● Licensed liquor premises inspection (645).

● Second-hand dealers compliance inspection (147).

● Compliance inspection at scrapyards or recyclers (56).

● Spaza shops or informal business visits (76).

● Farm visits together with the Department of Home Affairs and Department of Labour (2 831).

“The joint team seized 703 grams of tik/chrystal meth and 59 mandrax tablets. The team further confiscated 950.68 litres of alcohol beverages, 108 packets of tobacco, and 305 kilograms of suspected stolen copper cables.

“Another weekly planned Operation Shanela will unfold in certain areas of concern and identified crime hotspot areas throughout Free State province,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Gauteng Health dept’s Mandela Month Surgical Marathon kicks off

Source: Government of South Africa

Gauteng Health dept’s Mandela Month Surgical Marathon kicks off

The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) will conduct more than 1000 surgeries and clinical procedure in July in honour of Mandela Month.

This will mark the fourth edition of the department’s Mandela Month Surgical Marathon.

“[The] initiative forms part of the department’s ongoing efforts to reduce surgical waiting lists, improve access to care and restore the dignity of patients awaiting procedures across Gauteng public hospitals.

“With a total pledge of 1078 surgeries and clinical procedures, the department aims to surpass the 806 procedures performed during the 2025 Mandela Month Surgical Marathon, demonstrating continued progress in strengthening surgical services and expanding access to timely care,” the GDoH said.

Some 19 hospitals, including academic, tertiary, regional and district hospitals, will participate, making it “one of the province’s largest coordinated surgical access interventions to date”.

“These hospitals will dedicate theatre time throughout July to reduce waiting lists and improve access to specialist surgical services.

“More than 20 surgical and clinical disciplines will participate in this year’s programme, including ophthalmology, orthopaedics, general surgery, urology, paediatric surgery, cardiothoracic, neurosurgery, ear, nose and throat surgery, obstetrics and gynaecology, breast surgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery and oncology services.

“The procedures planned for this year’s Surgical Marathon range from cataract surgeries, hip and knee replacements and hernia repairs to more specialised interventions such as cochlear implants, penile prosthetic implants, paediatric reconstructive surgery and cardiac procedures,” the department explained.

Civil society organisations such as Gift of the Givers, the Islamic Medical Association of South Africa, Operation Healing Hands and Envision Africa will support the programme with specialist teams, medical consumables and equipment.

“For many patients, surgery represents more than a medical procedure. It means restored sight, renewed mobility, relief from pain and an opportunity to return to work, school and family life after months or even years of waiting for treatment.

“The Mandela Month Surgical Marathon is more than a series of operations. It is a province-wide commitment to restore hope, reduce waiting times, strengthen the health system and honour the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela through meaningful action.

“Every procedure performed represents sight restored, mobility regained, pain relieved and dignity returned to patients and families across Gauteng,” the department said.

Earlier this month, Cabinet called on all South Africans to dedicate their time to help build a better country that works for all.

“South Africa will in July commemorate Mandela Month under the theme ‘It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity ‘. Cabinet calls on all South Africans to dedicate their time and efforts during Mandela Month and on Nelson Mandela International Day on 18 July 2026, to help build a South Africa that works for South Africans,” it said.

Nelson Mandela International Day was launched in recognition of Nelson Mandela’s birthday on 18 July 2009 via a unanimous decision of the United Nation’s General Assembly. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Mining Chambers to Highlight Africa’s Next Wave of Investment Opportunities at African Mining Week (AMW) 2026

Source: APO


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As African countries advance reforms to unlock new mineral discoveries and strengthen mining investment, chambers of mines are playing an increasingly important role in connecting governments, investors and industry. Through policy advocacy, regulatory engagement and investment promotion, these organizations are helping shape the continent’s next phase of mining development.

That growing role will be on display at African Mining Week (AMW) 2026, taking place in Cape Town from October 14–16, where chamber executives will highlight the policies, partnerships and investment opportunities driving growth across Africa’s mining sector.

Zimbabwe offers a prime example of this expanding role. The Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe has become an increasingly influential voice in addressing production constraints, including power shortages and foreign exchange challenges. Its recommendations align with recent government initiatives to expand coal-fired power generation, increase coal production and achieve 10% mining sector growth in 2026. At AMW 2026, CEO Isaac Kwesu will outline investment opportunities emerging as the country implements reforms to strengthen mining competitiveness.

In South Africa, the Minerals Council South Africa continues to advocate for improvements to rail, port and electricity infrastructure while supporting the implementation of the Mineral Resources Development Bill and measures to stimulate exploration. These priorities complement government initiatives such as the Junior Mining Exploration Fund and a broader strategy to mobilize R2 trillion in mining investment over the next five years. CEO Mzila Mthenjane will discuss efforts to revitalize exploration and unlock opportunities across the country’s platinum group metals, manganese and critical minerals sectors.

In Zambia, the Zambia Chamber of Mines has helped shape the Geological and Minerals Development Act of 2025, legislation designed to stimulate mineral exploration as the country works toward increasing annual copper production to three million tons by 2031. Zambia has already reached a key milestone in its nationwide geological mapping program, completing 55% of the survey, while the recent launch of the National Spatial Data Infrastructure Policy and Geoportal is improving investor access to geological data. At AMW 2026, CEO Sokwani Chilembo is expected to showcase investment opportunities as Zambia expands exploration and diversifies beyond copper.

As countries increasingly position mining as a driver of economic diversification, Fousseni Togola, President of the Mali Chamber of Mines, will present opportunities in the country’s gold and lithium sectors, highlighting how Mali’s 2023 Mining Code is supporting investment into emerging minerals.

In Uganda, Humphrey Asiimwe, CEO of the Uganda Chamber of Energy and Minerals, told AMW that the chamber will use the event to promote investment opportunities in gold, graphite and rare earths. The country’s mining sector forms a cornerstone of Uganda’s strategy to increase GDP from $59.3 billion to $500 billion by 2040.

Meanwhile, Amara Kamara, President of the Liberia Chamber of Mines, is expected to highlight reforms aimed at attracting new exploration investment, including plans to establish a national mining company as Liberia targets more than $3 billion in annual mining and energy revenues by 2029.

Regional collaboration will also feature prominently during AMW 2026. Thierry Naweji, Executive Chairman of the SA-DRC Chamber of Commerce, is expected to discuss opportunities to strengthen cooperation between South African and Congolese mining companies as both countries work to build more integrated regional mineral value chains.

With regulatory reforms gathering pace across the continent, AMW 2026 will highlight how chambers of mines are helping translate policy ambitions into investment opportunities, reinforcing their growing role in Africa’s mining development.

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

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Bernard Beya appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Liquid Intelligent Technologies Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

Source: APO

Liquid Intelligent Technologies (https://Liquid.Tech), a business of Cassava Technologies, a global technology leader, is pleased to announce the appointment of Bernard Beya as Chief Executive Officer of its operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), effective 1 April 2026.

“The DRC represents one of the most exciting growth opportunities in our region, and Bernard’s appointment comes at an important moment in our journey. His deep understanding of the local market, combined with his commitment to customer success and operational excellence, will help accelerate our ambitions to expand digital infrastructure and enable greater economic growth across the country,” said Sutha Siva, EVP: Group Chief Operating Officer at Cassava Technologies.

Bernard brings over 20 years of leadership experience in telecommunications, including deep expertise in the DRC market. He joined Liquid in September 2022 as Chief Financial Officer and was appointed Acting CEO in November 2025, overseeing the organisation’s strategic, operational and commercial direction. His proven track record of delivering results and building stakeholder trust highlights his capability to lead Liquid DRC effectively.

“I am honoured to lead Liquid DRC’s next phase of growth. Our priority is to build on the strong operational and financial foundation we have established to deliver greater value for our customers and partners. As a business of Cassava Technologies, we can expand access to reliable connectivity, cloud, cyber security, colocation and compute AI for our customers. We can play a meaningful role in accelerating digital transformation for the country’s enterprises, government, and communities,” said Bernard.

As the Democratic Republic of Congo advances its digital transformation agenda (https://apo-opa.co/450UEeK) through significant investments in digital infrastructure, connectivity, and skills development, Liquid Intelligent Technologies is well positioned to support these national ambitions, helping unlock inclusive economic growth and drive the country’s digital future.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

About Liquid Intelligent Technologies:
Liquid Intelligent Technologies is a business of Cassava Technologies (Cassava), a technology company of African heritage with operations in 40-plus markets across Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, where the Cassava group companies operate. Liquid has firmly established itself as the leading provider of pan-African digital infrastructure with a 116,000 km-long fibre broadband network and satellite connectivity that provides high-speed access to the Internet anywhere in Africa. Liquid is also leveraging its digital network to provide Cloud and Cyber Security solutions through strategic partnerships with leading global players. Liquid is a comprehensive technology solutions group that provides customised digital solutions to public and private sector enterprises and SMEs across the continent. For more information, visit https://Liquid.Tech.    

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African Economic Conference Launches Continental Network of Chief Economists to Strengthen Continent’s Policy Leadership

Source: APO


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African policymakers, development institutions and leading economists on Sunday launched the African Chief Economists Network (ACE-Network), a continent-wide platform designed to strengthen evidence-based policymaking and provide coordinated African solutions to increasingly complex global economic challenges.

The launch, one of the principal outcomes of the 2026 African Economic Conference (AEC), comes as African countries face mounting geopolitical tensions, global trade fragmentation, climate shocks, rising debt pressures, and a rapidly evolving international financial and development architecture.

Hosted by the African Development Bank Group in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the three-day conference brought together ministers, central bank officials, chief economists, academics, development practitioners, private-sector leaders and researchers from across Africa and beyond.

The event, held under the theme “Strengthening Africa’s Geopolitical Agency and Trade Resilience in a Multipolar World,” concluded with more than 4,000 participants connected virtually over the three days, reflecting growing interest in Africa’s search for stronger, home-grown policy responses to a rapidly changing global economy.

Speaking on behalf of African Development Bank Group President Dr Sidi Ould Tah, Senior Vice-President Marie-Laure Akin-Olugbade described the launch of the ACE-Network as a landmark achievement that would strengthen Africa’s capacity to develop practical, evidence-based policy solutions.

She noted that the broad participation and engagement of stakeholders across diverse sectors and institutions demonstrate the timeliness, relevance and importance of this year’s theme for Africa’s future. She urged members of the new network to translate research into policies and actions that improve the lives of Africans.

“This is a big responsibility on your shoulders, and we expect to see clear results in the form of very effective decisions and, therefore, actions that really move the needle for the men and women of this beautiful continent of ours,” Akin-Olugbade stressed.

Responding to a changing global economy

The establishment of the ACE-Network reflects growing recognition that African countries need stronger coordination among their leading economic thinkers as policymakers navigate increasingly interconnected global crises.

The network aims to fill that gap by creating an informal, invitation-only community of chief economists and senior policy advisers to exchange evidence, coordinate research, identify emerging risks, and jointly develop policy recommendations for African governments.

Members will include chief economists from African development finance institutions and multilateral organisations, chief economic advisers to African presidents and prime ministers, deputy governors of central banks responsible for economic policy, heads of leading think tanks, deans of economics faculties, and senior private-sector economists.

Rather than establishing another formal institution, the network will operate as a collaborative platform, meeting annually alongside the African Economic Conference and holding quarterly virtual sessions and rapid-response meetings during major global or regional economic shocks.

Strengthening Africa’s knowledge sovereignty

Presenting the network’s strategic vision, African Development Bank Group Chief Economist and Vice-President for Economic Governance and Knowledge Management, Prof Kevin Urama, said Africa must strengthen its knowledge systems if it is to shape the emerging global financial and economic order.

He argued that Africa has only a limited window to influence reforms to the international financial architecture and that stronger coordination among African economists would help governments make better-informed decisions amid unprecedented uncertainty.

Among the network’s priorities are strengthening Africa’s knowledge sovereignty, increasing investment in research and innovation, improving policy coordination, reducing duplication across institutions, enhancing early-warning systems for emerging risks, and ensuring that economic analysis better reflects African realities.

Urama also called for greater investment in what he described as “soft infrastructure”—research, data systems and knowledge institutions—to complement the continent’s growing investment in transport, energy and other physical infrastructure.

Bridging research and policymaking

UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa Chief Economist Dr Raymond Gilpin described the network as “a unified powerhouse of African intellectuals” capable of narrowing the gap between economic research and public policy.

He said the initiative would help African countries mobilise domestic capital, strengthen implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), develop innovative responses to climate and fiscal challenges, and convert Africa’s demographic growth into a driver of long-term prosperity.

“The Africa Chief Economists Network will be an engine room that designs creative solutions necessary for Africa to attain the Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063,” Gilpin said.

United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) Deputy Executive Secretary and Chief Economist Dr Hanan Morsy said increasingly interconnected crises demanded stronger collective economic intelligence across Africa.

“No country, regardless of its size or resources, can effectively navigate this environment alone,” she said, adding that the network’s success would ultimately be measured by whether it improves policymaking, strengthens resilience and contributes to faster, more inclusive growth across the continent.

Representing the OECD, Ida McDonnell, head of the Development Research Unit, noted that current global challenges required integrated approaches to trade, debt, climate finance, industrial policy and investment, rather than treating each issue separately.

She added that the new ACE-Network would help reduce duplication while strengthening African contributions to global policy debates.

Over three days in the Ivorian capital, delegates examined how Africa can strengthen its geopolitical influence while improving trade resilience, mobilising domestic resources, expanding regional value chains, accelerating industrialisation and attracting greater investment in an increasingly multipolar world.

Sessions also explored the future of development finance, public investment efficiency, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, climate resilience, regional integration and institutional reforms needed to position Africa as a stronger actor in global economic governance.

Participants agreed that Africa possesses major comparative advantages—including the world’s youngest population, abundant renewable energy resources, critical minerals, expanding digital markets and the world’s largest free trade area under the AfCFTA—but that stronger institutions, better policy coordination and higher-quality economic analysis will be essential to convert those assets into sustained growth.

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

Media Contact:
African Development Bank Group
Kpodo, Wilberforce Kwasi, media@afdb.org

United Nations Development Programme
Eve Sabbagh, eve.sabbagh@undp.org

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
Eleanor Carey, Eleanor.CAREY@oecd.org