Category: English

Source: APO

Energy Capital & Power (ECP) (https://EnergyCapitalPower.com) has officially launched Prospect – a dedicated newsroom delivering structured news and reporting on the energy and mining sectors. The move marks an evolution from ECP’s foundations in media and African events into a more focused global news platform.

Prospect is now the group’s independent, online platform for comprehensive and timely coverage of energy and mining in Africa, Europe, the MENA region and the Americas.

As global energy and mining landscapes grow more complex, the need for clear and reliable reporting has intensified. Prospect responds to this need by offering curated news that brings together policy shifts, project developments and market activity in a cohesive and accessible format.

“The launch of Prospect represents an important step in how we deliver information to our audience. Our focus is on producing high-quality, relevant news that helps industry stakeholders stay informed and make sense of a rapidly evolving global environment,” says James Chester, CEO of Energy Capital & Power. 

Prospect maintains editorial independence but benefits from its close ties to ECP’s extensive network by leveraging established relationships with government bodies, national oil companies and international industry stakeholders. This approach ensures reporting that is accurate and appropriately contextualized.

Prospect is now live, featuring ECP’s full range of news and editorial content. Readers can explore the latest coverage at www.Prospect-Intel.com.

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

Source: APO

The Budget Committee has raised a red flag following inconsistencies in the reported upgrade of health facilities with concerns over transparency and equity in the allocation of resources.

The concerns emerged during a meeting chaired by Hon. Patrick Isiagi on Monday, 20 April 2026. The Health Committee Chairperson, Hon. Joseph Ruyonga presented the report on the sector budget for the next financial year.

At the centre of the debate was a claim by the Ministry of Health that government had upgraded 34 Health Centre IIIs to Health Centre IVs across the country.

However, Members of Parliament questioned the accuracy of the figure noting discrepancies in the documentation presented. 

“One of the issues we have is that the report says 34 health centres have been upgraded but when you count those listed, they are fewer and some are not even completed,” Isiagi said.

He insisted that before celebrating the reported achievements, the committee must provide a clear and verifiable list of the facilities.

“We need to know these 34. Where are they? Without that, we cannot even ascertain what has been done. Otherwise, we are just here passing time,” he added.

Ruyonga admitted the gaps in the information available to the committee revealing that the list had only been requested from the Ministry of Health.

“The list which you have is not numbered. We have asked the ministry to give us the actual facilities selected for upgrade, and they only sent it this morning,” he said.

The committee was granted time to present the verified list for scrutiny.

Beyond the inconsistencies, MPs also raised broader concerns about equity in the distribution of health infrastructure, accusing the ministry of favouring certain districts while side-lining others.

“Why is it that when it comes to some districts, there is always no money, but others appear multiple times in the budget?” Hon. Herbert Ariko (NRM, Soroti East Division) said.

Isiagi added that the issue at hand was fairness in resource allocation.

“The key word here is equity. At least each district should benefit before repeating allocations in the same areas,” he said.

The debate further exposed gaps in accountability with Otuke County, Hon. Paul Omara questioning whether projects approved by Parliament were being implemented as planned.

“The lists we provide are ignored, and the ministry goes ahead to manufacture its own list,” he said.

The committee also scrutinised funding allocations for the National Ambulance System with MPs demanding clarity on how far the Shs20 billion earmarked for ambulances would go and who the beneficiaries are.

Ruyonga indicated that, based on estimates of about Shs250 million per ambulance, the allocation will procure about 80 units, though members questioned whether this figure was realistic given the specifications required.

Meanwhile the meeting also highlighted preparations in the health sector ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with specific reference to support for Hoima Regional Referral Hospital.

Ruyonga told the committee that the Shs26 billion allocated for Hoima Regional Referral Hospital was insufficient to handle planned upgrades and readiness for the continental tournament. He said the hospital had requested for Shs40 billion.

“The 26 billion provided for Hoima is inadequate for the required works to support the Africa Cup of Nations,” he said.

However,  Isiagi said that the Shs26 billion is adequate for the hospital to prepare to host AFCON delegates who may require medical attention. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

Source: APO

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The sports competition of the Eritrean Naval Force that was underway for about two months colorfully concluded. The concluding event has been attended by Mr. Kibrom Andemicael, managing director at the Northern Red Sea Region administration as well as senior Army Commanders and PFDJ officials.

The sports competitions that was conducted from 26 March to 18 April featured 11 types of sports.

Noting on the significance of the program in nurturing physical and psychological fitness of the youth, Let. Col. Teame Tiku’e, head of promotion and information of the Eritrean Navy, said that strong competitiveness has been demonstrated in the program.

At the event awards have been handed out to winners of the various sports competitions and certificates of recognition to those who contributed for the successful implementation of the program.

Speaking at the occasion, Colonel Ahmed Mohammed-Ali, Acting Chief of Staff of Eritrean Naval Force said that the program will have significant contribution for the preparation in the sports competitions that will be organized at the Eritrean Defense Forces level and commended those who contributed for the successful implementation of the program.

The event was highlighted by cultural and artistic performance by Awkan Cultural Troupe of the Eritrean Navy.

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

Source: APO

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Cany Jobe, Director General of the Gambia Petroleum Commission, will join industry leaders at this week’s Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum in Paris, bringing into focus one of West Africa’s most promising frontier exploration markets. As global investors increasingly look to diversify portfolios and secure early-stage opportunities, The Gambia is re-emerging as a compelling play within the MSGBC Basin – one of the most active hydrocarbon regions worldwide.

At IAE 2026, the country will be featured in a dedicated MSGBC spotlight session, highlighting basin-wide developments and growing alignment between emerging and producing markets. With neighboring Senegal and Mauritania already in production, attention is shifting south toward underexplored acreage, where The Gambia represents one of the last true first-mover opportunities.

Jobe is also expected to contribute to high-level discussions on de-risking frontier acreage – an increasingly critical theme as investors weigh geological potential against regulatory, technical and commercial uncertainties.

Recent efforts to enhance the country’s energy ecosystem are already reshaping investor perception. The launch of a new petroleum testing laboratory in 2026 marks a key step in strengthening regulatory oversight and operational standards, reinforcing confidence across the value chain. At the same time, the government has moved to reallocate and promote open acreage, signaling renewed upstream momentum following a period of limited activity. In March 2026, authorities confirmed that new exploration licenses had been awarded to three companies across open blocks.

This progress is underpinned by significant resource potential. Offshore blocks A1 and A4, located along the same geological trend as Senegal’s producing fields, benefit from extensive seismic data and proximity to existing infrastructure, offering potential for cost-effective development through tiebacks and shared services. Additional blocks, including A2 and A5, have historically attracted strong industry interest, with estimates pointing to substantial unrisked prospective resources.

Crucially, The Gambia’s position within the MSGBC Basin strengthens its overall investment case. The basin has seen a surge in activity in recent years, driven by major discoveries and increased capital deployment by international oil companies. As global players look to replenish reserves and diversify supply, West Africa is playing an increasingly important role in the global energy landscape.

As discussions in Paris turn toward energy security, supply diversification and frontier opportunity, The Gambia is positioning itself firmly within that narrative. With improving regulatory clarity, newly available acreage and strong geological fundamentals, the country is moving from potential to a clear investment proposition.

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

Source: APO

Emirates (http://www.Emirates.com) has continued its commitment to making travel more accessible for all, by successfully arranging bespoke Emirates Travel Rehearsals across more than 40 cities globally over the past year. With more than 250 families positively impacted, Emirates Travel Rehearsals are designed to support children and young adults with autism, allowing them to practice the journey through the airport to prepare for real flights – easing travel anxiety and empowering them to fly with more confidence.

After the initial Emirates Travel Rehearsals in Dubai resulted in positive feedback from families, schools and autism organisations; the Emirates Office of Accessibility & Inclusion formulated the travel rehearsal into an official programme, to be rolled out across its global network.

Since April 2025, Emirates’ Airport Services teams have come together to arrange more than 40 of these travel rehearsals across airports like Accra, Athens, Bali, Bangalore, Barcelona, Bologna, Brussels, Cairo, Christchurch, Da Nang, Delhi, Dubai, Dublin, Durban, Düsseldorf, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Guangzhou, Hanoi, Harare, Hong Kong, Istanbul, London, Luanda, Madrid, Mauritius, Milan, Newcastle, Nice, Orlando, Oslo, Paris, Peshawar, Port Luis, Rome, Stansted, Stockholm, Sydney, Toronto, Trivandrum, Venice and Vienna.

More than 35,000 Emirates staff have been trained to support customers with autism and can help facilitate travel, and Travel Rehearsals. Emirates teams work very closely with airport authorities and partners to make sure each rehearsal is a supportive and successful experience for the families.

Sami Aqil Abdullah, Senior Vice President, Emirates Airport Services Outstation & Business Support, commented;

‘The Emirates Travel Rehearsal programme has been a resounding success across 6 continents, with impressive collaboration and drive shown by all stakeholders, from our own Emirates teams to our airport partners, and the parents and teachers who trusted us to support their children. We will continue to amplify this success with more locations, more teams involved, and more families positively impacted and empowered to fly with confidence.’

What is an Emirates Travel Rehearsal?

As the world’s first autism certified airline, Emirates is aware that for many families, international air travel is a highly challenging experience, or something to be avoided completely due to the high level of sensory stimuli that is involved. A survey on AutismTravel.com revealed that 78% of families are hesitant to travel or visit new locations for these reasons. For many people with autism, planning and predictability is critical – and an airport represents a world of unknown processes and stimuli.

Emirates Travel Rehearsals are a purposeful community collaboration and learning exercise arranged by Emirates, with the support of international airport teams, Border Control and Security teams, and schools and centres for autism based all around the world. The travel rehearsals empower neurodivergent people to participate in a real-time journey through the airport, practicing the actions of checking in, dropping baggage, going through immigration and security, and experiencing the hustle and bustle of retail and dining areas. While familiarising themselves with the airport, participants are also issued mock boarding passes and given the chance to meet the many uniformed staff encountered along the way. In some airports, Emirates’ teams managed to arrange access to real aircraft for the children and young adults.

Positive feedback from participants

Now on an international level – parents, therapists, teachers, young adults and children involved in the travel rehearsals so far have reported to Emirates that the experience has been invaluable in helping them have a safe and successful flight, by offering the comfort of preparation and familiarity, as well as trained staff to support.

“The relief experienced when institutions like Emirates have considered children with neurological differences in their operational strategies! To know a parent is welcomed with massive support during travels is such a beautiful feeling. It’s like a road to freedom for my child.” From an Autism Center founder and parent, Accra.

“Now I am not afraid anymore! Maybe we can fly again next year. Before it was terrible. But now I can leave my fears somewhere else.” From Noah in Dusseldorf, 13 years old.

“A real highlight of the day was watching the Emirates A350 arrive on stand, with the Captains waving to the children – a moment that sparked huge excitement. By the end of the evening, smiles were everywhere, and the atmosphere was filled with pride and joy. The children headed home with their bags they had “checked in,” filled with Emirates goodies, making the experience even more memorable. ​It was an incredibly rewarding day, and we’re grateful to everyone who took part and supported this.”  From an Autism Group Leader, Edinburgh.

“It is heartwarming to see and feel that in this busy world, there is still time taken to think of those who need just a little extra care. Thanks to this experience, our child can finally form a real picture of what to expect from an air‑travel holiday, because with explanations alone, he simply cannot imagine it. We found it incredibly fun and very helpful to experience this together with our son! Thank you!” From a Parent in Brussels.

“Interesting! I was allowed to control the baggage belt. Everything was great. Especially the picnic room (lounge), the weapon control (security), the aircraft, just everything!” From Oskar in Dusseldorf, 7 years old.

“Thank you for yesterday’s experience. From what participants have said, I think it couldn’t have been better, Mario is still saying that it was the best day of his life.” Parent from Fundación Friends, Barcelona.

“The effort that Emirates put into creating more awareness, understanding, and sensitivity towards people with an invisible disability deserves the highest appreciation. Your approach shows insight, respect, and genuine commitment, making the world a better place and the lives of people with disabilities more liveable. It is inspiring to see how much care and attention you put into this. Hopefully, other airlines will follow your example, and awareness for people with disabilities will continue to grow. Thank you very much for this wonderful experience.” From an Autism Group leader in Brussels.

“Unusual, I have never been to an airport. Very strange bus, it had doors on both sides. Cockpit was very cool! I was surprised to receive a present, I was very happy! Everything was unusual but fine and I could understand everything what was explained.” From Erik in Dusseldorf, 19 years old.

‘I was buzzing with excitement as the day approached with my students. Emirates’ team were incredibly welcoming and supportive, going above and beyond to make our travel experience both exciting and comfortable. From sensory-friendly spaces to tailored support, every detail was thoughtful. We had so much fun with the staff they truly understood us and were thrilled to have us. Thanks for making it a memorable day’. From a Class Teacher in Accra.

“The experience you’ve given us is invaluable. We continue to be overwhelmed by the welcome we received. We loved all the details and preparation of the tickets at check-in, controls, boarding, and meeting the crew. We consider it a very significant step forward. The boys and girls came back very happy and after a week they are still remembering and talking about the visit. The feedback from families has also been very positive.” Representative from the Fundación Aucavi, Madrid.

“Thank you can feel so light at times like these. To think of our children with autism was such an honor for families. You unpacked travel aspirations they have, their desired destinations. One parent said they never ever asked their son where he would like to visit thinking he knows no destinations.” Representative from the Regional Development Office for Autism, South Africa

“Thank you, Emirates. It helped us a lot that we could go through the check-in process all the way to boarding the plane (the problem for us was/is the transportation on the passenger bridge, but now we know that it’ll be fine for our child too). Special thanks for your hospitality, and for the patience of Emirates staff. Our little boy had a great desire to board a plane, we returned home enriched with positive experiences. He also went to school today in the hat he received.” Parent from Hungary

“I haven’t travelled in ten years out of fear for my child. After this experience, I feel more confident and hope to plan a trip with him.” Parent from Angola

“A million thanks for organizing, your team was incredibly professional and kind. My gratitude to the crew member who showed Nore around, it made his day! He was also over the moon with the goodie bag he received, his smile got bigger and bigger as we reached home. You really did an amazing job when he finished his day by raising his arms and shouted: “I love being an autist”!” Parent of Nore from Oslo.

“It was more than an airport experience. It was a gesture of respect, care, and recognition of everyone’s right to belonging, to travel, and to live fully. Each smile, each achievement, and each emotional glance from our little ones and their families revealed the true meaning of inclusion: creating safe, welcoming, and accessible spaces for everyone.” Doctor from Kuzola Mona Children Development Centre, Angola.

“Wow what an experience you provided our students on Friday. As a teacher of students with specialist needs for over 20 years this was one of the best things I have attended. Everyone commented on the care and attention from the whole Emirates team and the ground crew at Christchurch airport. We now have families who feel confident to give travel a go! Emirates aircraft model now has a new home, at the school reception.” Teacher from Pītau-Allenvale School, Christchurch.

Emirates’ continuous support for neurodiverse customers

Emirates will continue to arrange Travel Rehearsals across its global network throughout 2026, inviting more schools and centres to participate.

Emirates’ range of sensory products and fidget toys (http://apo-opa.co/3QmXkiT) for customers of all ages continue to be available onboard in all cabin classes, for passengers who are neurodiverse, anyone who is struggling onboard or is a nervous traveller.

Emirates Accessible & Inclusive Travel Hub (http://apo-opa.co/3QmXs1R) on Emirates.com has been designed to contain all the information needed for accessible and inclusive travel, featuring accessibility-friendly navigation that allows customers to find information easily and explore the many ways that Emirates can provide travel assistance and support. Aiming to reduce anxiety before travelling, customers can choose to view and explore sections by disability, including Hidden Disabilities. If preferred, customers can search by looking at specific parts of the journey, which have been clearly arranged – Before your flight, Departure from Dubai, Onboard your flight, Connecting in Dubai and Arriving in Dubai. A third option allows customers to browse by specific needs, including Prepare for travel with the autism-friendly guide and Explore Dubai Airport (DXB) Map and Sensory guides.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Emirates Group.