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Policy certainty, infrastructure key to unlocking agricultural investment

Source: Government of South Africa

Policy certainty, infrastructure key to unlocking agricultural investment

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has called for urgent reforms to unlock investment in South Africa’s agricultural sector, warning that persistent constraints, including weak infrastructure, biosecurity failures, and policy uncertainty, are limiting the industry’s full growth potential. 

The Minister was speaking during an Investment Opportunity Commission on Agritech and Food System Innovation moderated by the Presidential Envoy on Agriculture and Land, Wandile Sihlobo, on the sidelines of the South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC) on Tuesday. 

Steenhuisen said the sector has shown strong recent performance but it requires targeted interventions to sustain momentum and drive job creation. 

“The last four quarters have shown very clearly the growth potential of agriculture and agro-processing,” Steenhuisen said, citing a 17% contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and a 10% year-on-year increase in exports. 

He highlighted high-performing subsectors such as the citrus, deciduous fruits, and nuts, but warned that logistical inefficiencies, particularly at ports, are constraining further expansion.

“These sectors could grow by up to 5% in the medium term if ports and rail systems are able to move products efficiently to markets.”

Steenhuisen also raised concern about deteriorating biosecurity, which has led to disease outbreaks such as Foot-and-Mouth Disease, restricting access to international markets for livestock producers.

“We are seeing the opposite trend in livestock, where markets are shrinking due to biosecurity challenges. We need to rebuild that ecosystem urgently.”

A key opportunity lies in agro-processing, which the Minister said remains underdeveloped despite its potential to significantly boost value addition and exports.

South Africa was exporting raw products when it could be adding value locally. “That is where the real opportunity lies,” he said. 

Misunderstood

Adding an investment perspective, Director at PIC, Thabi Nkosi, said the sector remains misunderstood by investors, particularly in its diversity beyond primary agriculture.

“We still have a lot of work to do in positioning agriculture as a resilient and innovative sector,” Nkosi said, pointing to opportunities in climate-smart technologies and water innovation.

She identified policy uncertainty, infrastructure challenges, and regulatory barriers as major deterrents to investment.

“Investors need clarity on issues such as biofuels policy, land reform, and water rights. Without that certainty, capital will hesitate,” she said.

Building resilience

Global agribusiness leader Jai Shroff emphasised the need to build farmer resilience in the face of climate change, describing it as one of the most pressing challenges facing the sector.

“A resilient farmer can invest in better technologies, and climate change is a huge challenge for the sector. Today, we are really looking at different ways to be able to drive this transition, where we can really make farmers more resilient. 

“We are competing with countries around the world which have a lot of money and can throw money at agriculture when they have challenges, but in developing countries like India, Africa, etc., it’s a lot more difficult,” Shroff said. 

Shroff added that sustainable practices such as carbon sequestration and biofuel production could unlock new income streams.

He argued that farmers should be incentivised for environmentally sustainable practices, which could be monetised and contribute to global decarbonisation efforts.

Steenhuisen said expanding export markets remains central to the sector’s growth strategy, particularly in Asia and the Middle East, where demand for South African agricultural products is rising. 

“We have been staggered by the demand in markets like East and Southeast Asia,” the Minister said, noting progress in gaining access for products such as grapes, apples, and cherries.

READ | South Africa’s first table grapes shipment arrives in the Philippines

He added that export growth has a direct impact on employment, with increased revenues enabling farmers to expand operations and hire more workers.

The panel agreed that unlocking investment in agriculture will require a coordinated effort to address structural constraints, improve policy certainty, and scale up agro-processing, positioning the sector as a key driver of economic growth and job creation. – SAnews.gov.za

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Radisson Hotel Group Surpasses 100 Hotels in Africa, Accelerating 2030 Growth Ambition

Source: APO – Report:

Radisson Hotel Group (www.RadissonHotels.com) has reached a significant milestone in Africa, with more than 100 hotels across the continent in operation and under development. Radisson Blu continues to anchor the legacy footprint. At the same time, the Radisson brand is the fastest riser, supported by a strong conversion engine and a concrete pipeline that continues to translate into openings. Building on this momentum, the Group has signed over 15 new hotels and roughly 2,500 rooms in the last 12 months, including new market entries in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zimbabwe.

Over the past five years, Radisson and Radisson Blu have ranked among the most signed brands in Africa, with one of the highest shares of cumulative openings. The last 12 months set a new benchmark with more than 2,500 rooms signed and multiple market entries. Priority growth markets remain Morocco, South Africa, and Nigeria, where the Group is deepening its presence and widening its brand distribution.

Ramsay Rankoussi, Regional Chief Development Officer, Radisson Hotel Group, commented: “We’ve crossed the 100-hotel mark in Africa by staying true to our plan, focusing on where we can lead, moving fast on quality conversions, and partnering with owners who share our ambition. The next phase is about depth in Morocco and Nigeria, a smarter footprint in South Africa, and a stronger resort offering that matches where travelers want to go. Our pipeline is built to open, not just to announce. That is why our conversion share is high, our time to market is short, and our brands are gaining ground in the cities and resort destinations that matter most.”

Nigeria shows the model’s resilience. The Group now holds a strong position in the country with 13 hotels in operation and pipeline, while Abuja is carrying a significant active pipeline with three hotels totaling 458 keys.

South Africa is being reshaped with priorities in Cape Town, targeted growth in secondary cities such as Durban and Pretoria, and a sharper focus on leisure corridors that include Kruger National Park, Sun City, and the Garden Route. The Group plans to enter Zanzibar and is considering lodge, safari, and affiliation opportunities across Namibia, Botswana, and Zambia to meet the rising demand for nature-led experiences.

Conversions remain a core lever for scale and speed. In the last five years, more than 15 hotels, equal to almost 3,000 rooms, joined the portfolio through conversion. This helped the Group lead openings across the continent while keeping brand standards high and owners in mind.

Recent signings show the extensiveness of this strategy, with a balanced pipeline of city hotels, resort destinations, and quick-to-market conversions. These signings span the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, and Morocco, including Radisson Blu Kinshasa and three Radisson hotels in Lubumbashi, Radisson Harare, Park Inn Victoria Falls, Radisson Collection Lagos Atlantic, as well as new additions in Casablanca with Radisson Blu Resort & Conference Center Bouskoura, a first Radisson brand hotel in Rabat, and further expansion in Marrakech. Key signings include:

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Radisson Blu Hotel, Kinshasa
Upper-upscale flagship in Gombe

Opening late 2026. Set on Boulevard Colonel Tshatshi in the Gombe district, the hotel will offer 110 keys, including suites and a Presidential Suite. Guests can choose from a lobby bar, an all-day dining restaurant, and a pool bar. Wellness includes a gym, massage rooms, and an outdoor pool with a terrace. Meetings and events feature a modern event hall with a pre-function area. The address is well connected, 32 kilometers from N’djili International Airport, 10 kilometers from N’Dolo Airport, and 6 kilometers from Gare Centrale.

Radisson Hotel Lubumbashi
Panoramic city stay in the DRC’s second city

Opening mid-2027. Located on Revolution Road Avenue, the hotel will feature 97 keys, including junior suites and a Presidential Suite. Dining spans a lobby bar, an all-day dining venue, and a rooftop bar and grill with city views. Three flexible meeting rooms and a pre-function area support business and social events. Facilities include a gym and a swimming pool. The location sits near Kipopo Lake, Lubumbashi Golf Club, and La Plage, and is 12 kilometers from Luano International Airport.

Radisson Blu Apartments Lubumbashi
Upscale apartment living in Lubumbashi’s prestigious Quartier Golf

Targeted for 2030. A 160-room property located in Quartier Golf, one of Lubumbashi’s most upscale residential districts, near Kipopo Lake and surrounded by luxury homes and key landmarks including Lubumbashi Golf and La Plage. Planned amenities include a specialty restaurant and bar, a pool bar, and a gym, offering a premium stay experience for extended-stay and leisure travelers.

Radisson Airport Hotel Lubumbashi
A strategically located airport hotel designed for ease and connectivity

Set to open in 2028, this 105-room property will be located just 6 kilometers from Luano International Airport, around a 10-minute drive, making it well positioned for business travelers, transit guests, and airline crews. Planned facilities include a restaurant, lobby bar, pool bar, meeting rooms, and a swimming pool, combining practicality with a welcoming hospitality experience close to the airport.

Egypt

Radisson Resort Ain Sokhna Groove
A large-scale Red Sea resort in one of Egypt’s growing leisure destinations

Planned for 2029, Radisson Resort Ain Sokhna Groove will offer 469 rooms, including 50 family rooms, as part of The Groove Ain Sokhna mixed-use development. Located along the Red Sea coast, around 30 kilometers south of Ain Sokhna and approximately 150 kilometers from Cairo, the resort is expected to feature private beach access, a spa, gym and fitness center, several restaurants, plus a ballroom and meeting rooms, catering to both holidaymakers and events demand.

Radisson Serviced Apartments COY Sheikh Zayed City
Flexible extended-stay accommodation in a fast-growing hub of Greater Cairo

Expected to open in 2030, this 120-key serviced apartments property, including six one-bedroom units, will form part of the COY development in Sheikh Zayed City. With a location just 13 kilometers from Sphinx International Airport and 14 kilometers from the Great Pyramids of Giza, the development sits close to major commercial, leisure, education, and healthcare destinations. Planned amenities include a coffee lounge, bar, kiosk, and meeting and event space integrated into the wider co-working environment.

Morocco

Radisson Blu Hotel & Conference Center, Casablanc a Bouskoura
Conference-ready address beside Palm Golf

A 119-key hotel with eight suites, a rooftop restaurant, and a dedicated conference center. Event facilities include two boardrooms, while a spa and a large outdoor pool cater to leisure travelers. The hotel is located 20 kilometers from Mohammed V International Airport and next to Palm Golf Palmeraie Country Club.

Radisson Hotel & Apartments Rabat Technopolis
Dual-component hub in the capital’s innovation park

A two-building project in Technopolis, 25 minutes from central Rabat. The hotel will offer 140 rooms, four dining venues, a pool, and a meeting and events space. The adjacent serviced apartment building adds 56 units. Technopolis connects businesses with leading education and research centers, creating a strong base for corporate demand.

Radisson Blu Resort Marrakech Ben Akil
Low-rise bungalows with views of Atlas Mountains

Opening early 2028. A 17-hectare estate featuring 80 bungalow-style accommodations, each with an outdoor terrace. Larger typologies include private pools. The resort sits beside Royal Golf Marrakech and is a 15-minute drive from the city center.

Nigeria

Radisson Hotel Aba
A new internationally branded hospitality destination for Aba

Targeted for 2031, Radisson Hotel Aba will introduce 120 rooms, including six junior suites, in a prime riverside location along the Aba River near key transport corridors. The hotel will become the first Radisson-branded property in Aba and the Group’s third branded hotel in Nigeria. Plans for the hotel include a gym, swimming pool, and several meeting rooms, serving both business and local demand. Sam Mbakwe International Airport in Owerri is approximately 56 kilometers away, or a 1 hour and 10 minute drive.

Radisson Hotel & Conference Center Yenagoa
A conference-focused hotel in the heart of an emerging Nigerian business center

Scheduled for 2027, the property will feature 196 rooms, including 16 junior suites, four executive suites, and two Presidential Suites, in Yenagoa, a city that is steadily strengthening its role as an administrative and commercial hub in southern Nigeria. Located near government institutions, business districts, and Bayelsa International Airport, approximately 33 kilometers or 40 minutes away, the hotel is set to benefit from the area’s ongoing infrastructure and hospitality growth while meeting rising demand for accommodation, meetings, and large-scale events.

Radisson Collection Hotel, Lagos Atlantic
Refined lifestyle luxury on the oceanfront of Lagos’ leading business district

Targeted for 2029, Radisson Collection Hotel, Lagos Atlantic will feature 107 rooms, including 16 executive suites and one Presidential Suite, on a prime oceanfront site on Victoria Island. As Lagos’ main financial and commercial district, Victoria Island is home to multinational companies, corporate headquarters, embassies, and strong year-round business activity. Located approximately 33 kilometers from Murtala Muhammed International Airport, around a 45-minute drive, the hotel will mark the second Radisson Collection property in Lagos.

South Africa

Radisson Serviced Apartments Umhlanga
A modern serviced apartment offering in the heart of Umhlanga’s business district

Planned for 2029, Radisson Serviced Apartments Umhlanga will introduce 155 rooms in a newly built development within Umhlanga Ridge, one of the area’s most established commercial and lifestyle hubs. The property will be within walking distance of Gateway Theatre of Shopping and close to major office precincts, including Umhlanga Ridge Business Park, La Lucia Office Park, and Glass House Office Park. Comprising studios and apartments, the project is designed to meet growing demand for high-quality extended-stay accommodation in the district.

Zimbabwe

New market entry

Radisson Serviced Apartments, Harare
Prime Borrowdale address for extended stays

Targeted for end-2028. A 147-key serviced apartments project within a master development near Maxwell Road in Borrowdale. The neighborhood is known for luxury residences, upscale shopping at Sam Levy’s Village, and entertainment at Borrowdale Racecourse. Planned amenities include a café and bar, a gym with sauna, and a pool with a deck. Set to be the only internationally branded hotel apartment offering in the area.

Park Inn by Radisson Victoria Falls Resort
A resort destination near one of the world’s most iconic natural landmarks

Expected to open in 2029, Park Inn by Radisson Victoria Falls Resort will offer 150 rooms, including five suites, in a setting overlooking Zambezi National Park. Located just 5 kilometers from Victoria Falls, around a 10-minute drive, the resort will be ideally positioned near one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, a destination that attracts more than 350,000 international visitors each year. With year-round waterfall views, adventure tourism, and access to safari experiences in the surrounding national parks, the property will cater to both leisure travelers and tour groups. Victoria Falls Airport is located approximately 22 kilometers, or a 23-minute drive, away.

Leading with the most diverse footprint across the continent, with presence in more than 30 African countries, Radisson Hotel Group blends depth in focus markets with selective entry into new destinations each year.

– on behalf of Radisson Hotel Group.

Media Contact:
Caroline Jonsson
Area Manager
Corporate PR, MEA, MED & SEAP
caroline.jonsson@radissonhotels.com

Business Development Contact:
Ramsay Rankoussi
Regional Chief Development Officer
Radisson Hotel Group
ramsay.rankoussi@radissonhotels.com

Connect with Radisson Hotels on:
LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/4bNCZKs)
TikTok (https://apo-opa.co/4m7GWia)
Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/48dsP4P)
Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4sOAtuU)
YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4sJVAhO)
WhatsApp (https://apo-opa.co/4lXfaoc)
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About Radisson Hotel Group:
Radisson Hotel Group is a rapidly expanding international hotel group, operating in EMEA and APAC with more than 1,600 hotels in operation and under development in +100 countries. The Group’s overarching brand promise is Every Moment Matters with a signature Yes I Can! service ethos.

The Radisson brand portfolio includes Radisson Collection, art’otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and Prize by Radisson — brought together under one commercial umbrella brand, Radisson Hotels.

Radisson Rewards (https://apo-opa.co/3PGkX5D) unting more than 27 million members. As the most streamlined program in the sector, members enjoy exceptional advantages and can access their benefits from day one across a wide range of hotels in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific.

Radisson Meetings (https://apo-opa.co/4bYVSuk) provides tailored solutions for any event or meeting, including hybrid solutions placing guests and their needs at the heart of its offer. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional, and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and being uniquely Carbon Compensated.

At Radisson Hotel Group, we care for people, communities, and planet (https://apo-opa.co/4m4d0Dq) and aim to be Net Zero by 2050 based on the approved Science Based Targets. With unique solutions such as carbon-compensated Radisson Meetings, we make sustainable hotel stays easy. To facilitate sustainable travel choices, all our hotels are becoming verified on Hotel Sustainability Basics.

The health and safety of guests and team members remain a top priority for Radisson Hotel Group. All properties across the Group’s portfolio are subject to health and safety requirements, ensuring we always care for our guests and team members.

For more information, visit our corporate website (https://apo-opa.co/3Of09lj)

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R1bn tourism infrastructure pipeline to boost investment and jobs

Source: Government of South Africa

R1bn tourism infrastructure pipeline to boost investment and jobs

Government’s push to build tourism infrastructure has begun to yield results, with eight investment-ready projects worth more than R1 billion now unveiled.

About 18 months ago, government called on provinces and cities to submit proposals aimed not only at attracting visitors, but at building long-term infrastructure to sustain the tourism sector. The response, officials say, was overwhelming.

Following a rigorous evaluation process, eight projects have been identified as fully structured and bankable.

Speaking at the Investment Opportunity Commission on Infrastructure, Tourism and Hospitality during the South Africa Investment Conference on Tuesday, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille said the projects mark a shift in how tourism is being positioned.

“For the first time at this Investment Conference, tourism infrastructure investment projects are being presented not as ideas, but as opportunities,” de Lille said.

She said the initiative is aimed at diversifying South Africa’s tourism offering, introducing new products, and maintaining existing infrastructure.

“We have to diversify our tourism offering to the rest of the world, bring in new products, but also look at maintenance of our existing tourism infrastructure,” she said.

De Lille emphasised that tourism is one of the most employment-intensive sectors, making infrastructure development critical to job creation and economic growth.

She added that investor confidence depends on how projects are structured.

“Investors ask the same questions: is there a credible pipeline? Is the regulatory pathway clear? Are risks allocated appropriately, and are revenue streams predictable? These are the central considerations,” she said.

To improve the investment process, the department has established an investment facilitation unit to streamline engagement and reduce bureaucratic delays.

John Lamola, Group Chief Executive Officer of South African Airways, highlighted the critical role of air connectivity in tourism growth.

He said air travel, often driven by tourism, plays a broader role in fostering global understanding.

“When people travel, they don’t just move across borders — they move across understanding,” Lamola said.

He stressed that without adequate air access, even the strongest tourism offerings would struggle to succeed.

“If we cannot bring people here, then even the best tourism product cannot succeed,” he said.

Brand South Africa CEO Neville Matjie underscored tourism’s importance to economic development, noting that investment in the sector helps bridge social and cultural divides.

Panelists agreed that tourism should be approached as an infrastructure and competitiveness issue rather than purely a destination-driven sector.

They emphasised the need for projects to be structured with clear revenue models, defined risks and long-term viability to attract investment.

“Tourism must be understood not just as a destination story, but as an infrastructure and competitiveness story. That’s where the real competitive advantage lies,” one panelist noted.

“Investors don’t invest in stories — they invest in certainty.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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Wingu Africa Launches Wingu Cloud Exchange in Ethiopia

Source: APO – Report:

Wingu Africa (www.Wingu.Africa), the pioneering specialist provider of carrier-neutral, Tier III-standard data centres in East Africa, has announced the launch of the Wingu Cloud Exchange (WCX), a new private cloud platform tailored specifically for East African businesses and now available in Ethiopia.

With WCX, Ethiopian organisations can keep their data securely within the country, ensuring compliance with local regulations and protecting sensitive information. For businesses, this enables faster access to services, improved operational efficiency, and reliable support through locally optimised infrastructure.

Demos Kyriacou, Deputy CEO, COO and Co-founder of Wingu Africa, said, “WCX is a game-changer for African businesses. We are delivering secure, compliant, and scalable cloud solutions built specifically for local needs. With this platform, we are setting a new standard for digital infrastructure in the region and accelerating Ethiopia’s transformation into a digitally enabled economy.”

WCX brings together essential cloud services such as computing, storage, container management, and security, making advanced technology accessible to companies of all sizes. Enterprises can scale operations on demand, pay predictable prices in local currency, and avoid the uncertainties of foreign exchange or hidden fees. This gives businesses clarity in planning and the freedom to grow without constraints.

The platform offers a full range of services, including Wingu Compute, Wingu Kubernetes, Wingu Drive, and Wingu Security, enabling businesses to deploy, manage, and secure applications with confidence. The platform also integrates seamlessly with existing on-premises systems and complements global providers such as Azure and AWS, offering customers flexible hybrid options tailored to their operational requirements.

The launch of WCX highlights the company’s commitment to advancing Ethiopia’s digital transformation and strengthening the region’s cloud infrastructure. By delivering locally relevant solutions, Wingu Africa supports sustainable growth and inclusive development, while addressing customer demand for simplicity, reliability, and predictability in cloud adoption.

– on behalf of Wingu Africa.

Media Contacts:
Email: info@wingu.africa

About Wingu:
Wingu is East Africa’s first specialist carrier-neutral data centre operator and cloud solutions provider, with strategic locations in Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Tanzania. Since 2012, the company has connected African businesses to global digital networks through secure, scalable, and high-performance colocation solutions. Built on technical expertise and regional insight, Wingu ensures carrier neutrality, empowering clients with flexible connectivity options. Committed to excellence in infrastructure, security, and service delivery, Wingu delivers world-class solutions tailored to East Africa’s unique digital landscape.

For more information about Wingu Cloud Exchange, visit www.Wingu.Africa

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Rift Over Oil and Gas Discrimination Claims Evident in Institutional Boycott of London African Energy Summit

Source: APO


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The industry-wide boycott of the upcoming Africa Energies Summit will continue as the conference organizers Frontier Energy Network refuse to abandon their policy of discrimination. The Mozambique oil industry alongside petroleum ministers from the African Petroleum Producers Organization have already withdrawn from the conference, citing concerns over the treatment of Black professionals and broader local content issues. With Frontier – led by Daniel Davidson – refusing to address the company’s decision to not hire Black professionals and the continued exclusion of Black voices, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org) calls on the continued boycott of the event.

“Our narrative and voices matter. Any company that wants to operate in the continent with a mindset of excluding Africans will fail. That’s why Africans are staying away from Africa Energies Summit 2026 and I am pleased that the petroleum ministers I have talked to have supported us by staying away from being part of the anti-African meeting in London,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC. “We thank the leadership of African ministers in their fight against this unjust behavior.”

Frontier’s discrimination sends an important message to the industry: now, more than ever, we have to prioritize local content and continue fighting for equality, skills development and fair practices. Several large-scale projects across the continent have already embedded local content within their developments. In the Republic of Congo, Wing Wah committed to boosting local content through the development of a training center aimed at equipping Congolese with skills to access to new jobs across the industry. Namibia’s cabinet approved an Upstream Local Content Policy to ensure that oil operations are inclusive and Africa-focused.

The East African Crude Oil Pipeline – spearheaded by TotalEnergies and China National Offshore Oil Corporation – has taken a holistic approach to local content by prioritizing three pillars: employment and training, procurement of local goods and services and proposals for technology transfer and capacity building. Recent industry moves reflect the impact of local content in Africa, with African entrepreneurs buying IOC assets. Oando acquired operatorship of Angola’s Block KON 13. Renaissance Africa Energy Holdings acquired Shell’s Nigerian assets. These highlight a growing trend of IOC-trained entrepreneurs taking over projects.

Nowhere has local content been more visible than Africa’s emerging natural gas sector. As Equinor looks at developing the $42 billion Tanzania LNG project, the company is already integrating local content within the project dynamics. Engagement with the Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authorities is underway to develop Local Content Plans, while efforts to prioritize local contractors, suppliers and employees are in motion. The Greater Tortue Ahemyim project in Senegal and Mauritania – operating since 2025 – also featured specific local content components. A national technician training program was established, over 300 local companies were contracted with 3,000 jobs created, while community investment and knowledge transfer formed the backbone of the project.

Mozambique is showing similar momentum. All of the country’s major LNG projects – Coral, Mozambique LNG and Rovuma LNG – are prioritizing local content. Mozambique LNG alone plans to spend $4.5 billion on services contracted by Mozambican suppliers. South Africa’s recently introduced Draft Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Regulations reinforce mandatory local participation, requiring operators to submit plans for skills development, employment equity and procurement. These moves signal a continental push towards inclusion and collaborative energy partnerships.

“Across all of these projects, the AEC has been there fighting. International oil companies such as ExxonMobil, Chevron, bp and Eni have been some of the greatest champions of local content and STEM in Africa. Imagine if, after all the work they have done, conference producers send a message that the industry has no place for someone because of their skin color?” states Ayuk, adding “Seismic companies should also do their part. They have a horrible track record of not hiring and promoting Africans. I hope they change.”

During times such as this, legacy producers such as Angola, Nigeria, the Republic of Congo and Libya must continue championing local content, setting a strong example for other countries. On the other hand, emerging and frontier markets such as Liberia, Namibia, The Gambia, Sierra Leone and more have a strategic opportunity to embed local content within their regulatory and energy systems from the start. They must avoid the mistake of starting on the wrong foot.

“We can’t stop our relentless support for the oil industry. We must be 100% pro oil and pro local content,” Ayuk concluded.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Godongwana: R3 fuel levy relief to cushion South Africans  

Source: Government of South Africa

Godongwana: R3 fuel levy relief to cushion South Africans  

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana says government’s decision to introduce a temporary R3 per litre fuel levy reduction is aimed at cushioning South Africans from what he describes as a significant economic shock driven by global oil price pressures. 

The R3 per litre reduction in the fuel levy announced today, is aimed at lessening the impact of severe fuel price hikes, that come into effect tomorrow. 

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC) on Tuesday, Godongwana said government had been closely monitoring rising tensions in the Middle East and their impact on global oil markets, which threatened to trigger steep fuel price hikes locally.

“We are aware that developments in the Middle East and their impact on oil prices are likely to affect our economy. We discussed different models and had to arrive at one that is affordable within the current fiscal environment,” the Minister said. 

Government ultimately settled on a R3 per litre relief for petrol and diesel adjustment through a temporary reduction in the general fuel levy.

The intervention comes into effect from 1 April and will run for one month, significantly softening the expected fuel price increase, which was projected to exceed R5 per litre for petrol and climb even higher for diesel.

This as the price of  all grades of petrol are set to rise by R3.06 a litre on Wednesday. The price of diesel will also rise by between R7.37 per litre and R7.51 per litre. 

READ | Petrol, diesel prices announced

While motorists will still feel the increase, Godongwana said the relief ensures the impact is less severe.

“This is still for April. We are going to assess what to do in May and June,” he said, noting that the current intervention alone will cost the country around R6 billion in foregone revenue.

The Minister acknowledged that diesel prices remain a major concern due to their broader impact on the economy.

“The diesel sector powers the economy, and changes in diesel prices affect everything – food, fertiliser and transport costs,” he said.

To address this, the Minister said an interdepartmental team is exploring additional interventions beyond fiscal measures to mitigate knock-on effects across key sectors. 

Despite the relief, Godongwana cautioned that government’s ability to sustain such measures is limited.

“This is a shock to the economy and a blow. Government can mitigate the effects for a specific period, but we cannot sustain it for longer without collapsing the tax system.”

He indicated that any continued relief would likely be limited to a maximum of three months, depending on global developments. 

The Minister also stressed that South Africa is not alone in facing these pressures, as countries worldwide grapple with rising energy costs linked to geopolitical instability.

“If the war continues, a number of countries throughout the world are facing similar challenges,” he said. 

On concerns about a potential recession, Godongwana said it was too early to raise alarm.

“Not at this stage,” he said, adding that inflation is expected to rise moderately by around 1.2 percentage points, remaining within the targeted range.

Government said the relief forms part of a broader, phased response that balances consumer protection with fiscal sustainability, with further support measures expected to be announced in the coming months. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Kenya’s new infrastructure fund is long overdue – but design flaws could limit its impact

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Odongo Kodongo, Associate professor, Finance, University of the Witwatersrand

Kenya is laying the ground for an infrastructure fund which will raise money for new projects – such as roads, energy and ports – through public-private partnerships, privatisation proceeds, and institutional capital. We asked Odongo Kodongo, a project finance expert, to unpack the potential risks and rewards of this strategy – and where it falls short.

Why now?

Kenya is weighed down by public debt that has built up rapidly over the last few years. The country’s public debt stood at about 12.30 trillion Kenya shillings (US$94.6 billion) as of December 2025, having risen from about 9.15 trillion shillings (US$70.3 billion) in December 2022. That is, public debt grew by over 34% in only three years.

Public debt as a percentage of GDP in 2022 was 67.9%. Thanks to an appreciating local currency, the debt to GDP ratio remained almost unchanged at 67.5% in 2025. For emerging and developing economies, a debt limit of no more than 64% of the country’s production (gross domestic product or GDP) is recommended.

In the financial year 2024/25, 71.2% of all government revenue went towards the servicing of debt. This left very little resources for other government activities including social programmes and capital projects such as infrastructure investments.

Kenya faces a massive infrastructure gap. Estimates show that the country needs to invest over US$12 billion annually in infrastructure until 2040 to meet its development goals. It doesn’t have this, resulting in an infrastructure financing gap of roughly US$2.1 billion annually.

However, due to the country’s excessive public debt, Kenyans must consider avenues other than tax revenues and public debt to pay for infrastructure. In this regard, the new fund is long overdue.

How will the fund work?

The National Infrastructure Fund Act establishes the fund as a corporate entity run by a board of directors. The board includes state officers and independent directors, recruited in accordance with the legislation governing state owned enterprises.

The treasury secretary is expected to formulate the act’s supporting regulations and guidelines. These include the fund’s investment policy, government support mechanisms, and standards and procedures.

However, the fund’s proposed legislation appears to indicate that its major responsibilities will include:

  • identifying and setting priorities for public infrastructure investments

  • conducting feasibility studies and developing bankable proposals

  • identifying an optimal mix of financing options for infrastructure projects

  • negotiating and closing financing deals with infrastructure financiers

  • overseeing implemented projects to manage risks and minimise time and cost overruns

  • audit to ensure past experiences inform project planning.

What are the potential risks and rewards?

The potential benefits of an infrastructure fund include greater infrastructure endowment, its potential cascading effects on development, and reduced reliance on the public purse.

But the success of such a fund hinges on many things. First, the fund’s design as a state owned enterprise creates the expectation that it will have autonomy to make its decisions without political interference and executive meddling.

However, some provisions of the act cast doubt that this will be possible. For example, the power to appoint independent directors is vested in the treasury cabinet secretary. This is a red flag. Given that the same cabinet secretary is a member of that board, independent board members may feel under pressure to agree with their appointing authority, making them effectively nonindependent.

Second, the fund must incentivise superior performance. Part III of the act recognises this need. The treasury cabinet secretary can set the board’s performance targets and evaluate its performance. But the cabinet secretary is a member of the same board and cannot be a fair referee.

Third, the act identifies the fund’s audited financial statements as a basis for performance evaluation. While this conventional approach appears sound, the structure of a more appropriate incentive system should focus on the objectives for which the fund is being set up. That is, performance should be based on:

  • the quantity of financial resources mobilised, especially from private sources

  • the amount of mobilised resources actually invested in infrastructure projects

  • efficiency in the management of projects

  • existence of feedback loops at various points between project origination and termination to support monitoring and corrective actions when necessary

  • capacity development and skills transfer.

The last point is important, given that human capital constraints have limited the region’s capacity to generate a pipeline of bankable projects, rendering its infrastructure sectors unattractive to private sector capital.

The fourth major weakness is the significance attached to financing derived from the disposal of government assets. Given that these assets are in short supply, monies from such sales must not be regarded as a primary source of financing.

Indeed, while the motivation for setting up the fund is to diversify funding sources and increase fiscal headroom, the act does not say much about private sector involvement.

In contrast, a similar fund created in South Africa in 2020 is specifically mandated to employ blended finance instruments. This involves using concessional finance (such as borrowing from development banks) to make an investment less risky to encourage private sector participation.

Finally, there is an ominous clause in the act that empowers the treasury secretary to issue government support in the form of letters of credit, guarantees and firm commitments to support projects. Because some of these mechanisms constitute public debt, this clause contradicts another clause that motivates the fund’s establishment on the grounds of “reduction in the reliance on public debt”.

What’s missing from the strategy, what needs fixing?

First, the implementation guidelines to be developed by the cabinet secretary should clearly spell out the fund’s goals. These include:

  • specific capital mobilisation targets: what is the volume of financial resources expected to be mobilised?

  • infrastructure investment targets: what are the immediate, medium and longer term infrastructure investment goals? These would be consistent with the country’s development plans, which often have specific timelines, such as year 2030.

Second, the underpinning law links performance measurement to the fund’s ability to “make a return commensurate with its level of investment”. This “economic/financial” view of performance ignores the social return potential of infrastructure investments.

For example, investing in hospitals and schools creates a healthier and higher quality manpower with greater longevity (social returns) and receptiveness to new knowledge. This increases labour productivity (economic returns).

Third, one of the more important beneficial spillovers of the fund’s operations is likely to be the development of the country’s capital markets. The fund could access capital from financial institutions such as pension and wealth funds, and diaspora resources, through innovative design of financial instruments.

The increased diversity of financial instruments and larger pool of capital could deepen the country’s capital markets. Thus, the act ought to have included capital markets development as one of the fund’s objectives.

At the operational level, several things need fixing. For example, the government must provide “seed” capital to support the fund’s initial activities. The amount of the seed capital, the justification for it, and its source(s) must be anchored in law.

Further, given the highlighted flaws of the cabinet secretary’s dual roles as a member of the board and its oversight agent, the cabinet secretary should be made an ex-officio member by law.

Finally, all proceeds, if any, from the sale of public assets in future should be ring-fenced to the fund. This, too, should be anchored in law.

– Kenya’s new infrastructure fund is long overdue – but design flaws could limit its impact
– https://theconversation.com/kenyas-new-infrastructure-fund-is-long-overdue-but-design-flaws-could-limit-its-impact-279254

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Afreximbank Underwrites US$2.5-billion in a US$4-Billion Syndicated Term Loan for Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Free Zone Enterprise (FZE)

Source: APO – Report:

African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) is pleased to announce that it has underwritten US$2.5 billion in the US$4-billion senior syndicated term loan in favour of Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE (DPRP).

Afreximbank and Access Bank were appointed co-Mandated Lead Arrangers for the five-year facility to consolidate existing financing, optimise its capital structure and align with the refinery’s operational status and long-term growth plan.

The transaction marks a major milestone for DPRP, Africa’s largest refinery and petrochemical complex with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day. The facility will enhance balance sheet flexibility, strengthen the company’s financial position, and support the refinery as a strategic supplier of refined petroleum products to Africa and the global market.

Afreximbank’s participation of US$2.5 billion is the largest share in the syndicate and underscores the Bank’s leadership in mobilising capital to support Africa’s industrialisation, advancing import substitution, promoting intra-African trade in refined petroleum products, and strengthening energy security.

Since the commencement of refining operations in February 2024, Afreximbank has supported the refinery with a US$ 1 billion working capital facility, as well as acting as Financial Adviser on the Naira-for-Crude initiative  which is facilitating the purchase of crude oil and sale of refined product in local currency eliminating the dependence on foreign currency.

Commenting on the development during a strategy engagement session between the Board of Directors of Afreximbank and the leadership of Dangote Group in Cairo, Egypt, Dr. George Elombi, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, said:

“We take immense pride in being the single largest provider of financing to the Dangote Group. We do so primarily because Dangote is African. When we invest in ourselves, we do more than create jobs and wealth or expand government revenues; we build a secure and resilient future for our continent. This is why we are pleased to have invested about US$15 billion in the Dangote Group since 2015.

Dr. Elombi stressed that there was nothing more rewarding than investing in African enterprises, emphasising that empowering them was imperative for the continent’s self-sustainability.  He noted, “Afreximbank and its Board of Directors stand ready to support the realisation of Dangote Group’s aspirations because when we build our institutions and provide the requisite support to grow, we will no longer have to look elsewhere for benevolence or salvation in difficult times.”

This transaction makes a powerful statement about Afreximbank’s commitment to backing transformative and indigenous industrial projects that are reshaping Africa’s economic future. The Dangote Refinery stands as a bold symbol of what African ambition, African capital and African execution can achieve at scale. Beyond expanding refining capacity, it is strengthening the foundations of Africa’s energy security, reducing dependence on imports and opening new frontiers for intra-African trade and industrial development. Afreximbank is proud to stand alongside this historic achievement and to continue supporting the continent’s journey towards greater self-sufficiency, resilience and prosperity.”

Mr. Aliko Dangote, President/Chief Executive, Dangote Industries Limited, on his part, said:

“This financing marks an important step in strengthening the financial foundation of Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals and positions the business for the next phase of its growth. We appreciate Afreximbank’s continued support and confidence in our vision to build world-class industrial capacity that serves Nigeria, Africa and global markets.”

The syndicated term loan attracted strong interest from a consortium of African and international financial institutions, reflecting continued confidence in the Dangote Petroleum Refinery as a transformative industrial asset and in Africa’s broader industrialisation agenda.

– on behalf of Afreximbank.

Media Contact:
Vincent Musumba
Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations)
Email: press@afreximbank.com  

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About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), GCR (A), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-), and. Moody’s (Baa2). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

About Dangote:
Dangote Industries Limited is one of Africa’s leading diversified and fully integrated industrial conglomerates with vibrant operations in Nigeria and across Africa in several sectors including cement, sugar, salt, condiments, packaging, energy, port operations, automotive, fertiliser, petroleum refining and petrochemicals.

The core business focus of the Group, which started operations in 1978, is to provide local, value-added products and services that meet the ‘basic needs’ of the populace. Through the construction and operation of large-scale manufacturing facilities in Nigeria and across 10 other African countries. Dangote Group is focused on building local manufacturing capacity to generate employment, prevent capital flight and provide locally produced goods for the people.

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Government welcomes gains in employment growth

Source: Government of South Africa

Government welcomes gains in employment growth

Government has welcomed the latest Quarterly Employment Statistics (QES) for the fourth quarter of 2025, which reflect a modest increase in total employment and continued growth in gross earnings across the economy. 

Acting Government Spokesperson Michael Currin said the latest QES results reinforce the view that South Africa’s economy has proven itself to be remarkably resilient, despite persistent domestic and global challenges.

He said the quarter-on-quarter rise of 18 000 jobs, driven by gains in key sectors such as trade and business services, alongside a notable increase in wages and bonuses, signals ongoing recovery in economic activity.

“The increase in total employment during the quarter, driven mainly by gains in trade and business services, reflects renewed activity in important areas of the economy. Growth in both full-time and part-time employment further signals improving labour market conditions and sustained demand for labour, particularly in service-oriented industries,” Currin said in a statement on Tuesday.

Government also noted the continued growth in gross earnings, basic salaries and bonuses paid to employees, noting the increases provide a welcome support to household incomes and contribute positively to overall economic momentum. 

Currin reiterated government’s commitment to targeted support measures, structural reforms and investment initiatives, aimed at revitalising affected industries and promoting inclusive growth.

“These encouraging developments coincide with South Africa hosting the sixth South Africa Investment Conference, providing a timely platform to showcase the country’s economic resilience, and improving labour market conditions to global investors. 

“The positive trajectory reflected in the QES strengthens investor confidence and reinforces South Africa’s position as a competitive and attractive investment destination,” Currin said. 

Released on Tuesday, by Statistics South Africa, the QES recorded an increase in employment in the fourth quarter of 2025, with total jobs rising by 18 000 or 0.2% to 10.55 million in December, from 10.53 million in September.

READ | Employment edges up in Q4 2025
The quarterly gain was driven primarily by growth in the trade sector, which added 37 000 jobs, and business services, which increased by 17 000. 

Government, in collaboration with social partners, also committed to continue to build on these positive trends by advancing policies that support job creation, economic recovery and sustainable growth. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK

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Khaby Lame named Dakar 2026 Ambassador as momentum builds for the Youth Olympic Games

Source: APO

Khaby Lame has been named an official ambassador for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG), as momentum builds ahead of the first Olympic sporting event to be held in Africa. Lame’s appointment marks the latest milestone in the lead-up to the Games, with the event’s prominence and international appeal continuing to grow.

A social media sensation followed by hundreds of millions of people worldwide, the Italian-Senegalese influencer joins a prestigious group of ambassadors, alongside Omar Sy, Kalidou Koulibaly and Eva Neymar. This convergence of talent illustrates the breadth of engagement generated by Dakar 2026, which goes far beyond the world of sport.

Lame, who was officially appointed on 26 March 2026 in Dakar, expressed his pride at becoming part of this historic event for the continent: “This commitment reflects my desire to support young African talent, both in sport and beyond. Dakar 2026 will give our continent the opportunity to showcase the best of itself and inspire young people in Africa and around the world. It is a chance to demonstrate that, as well as being resilient, Africa is a force to be reckoned with. I am proud to be Senegalese and proud to be African – and we will make this first Olympic event in Africa a resounding success.”

Having risen to fame during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lame has become a global phenomenon thanks to the simple format and universally accessible nature of his content. His massive audience and connection with young people offer a powerful platform to promote the vision and values of the Games.

Mamadou Diagna Ndiaye, the President of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Organising Committee (YOGOC), underlined how Lame’s appointment is part of a broader engagement approach. “Khaby Lame’s involvement illustrates the incredible enthusiasm generated by this edition of the Games,” he said. “Dakar 2026 is bringing together, inspiring and attracting talented individuals who want to help make this event a global success.”

Lame will play an active role in promoting the Games, particularly among young audiences. He will be involved in some of the event’s key moments, such as the YOG Torch Tour across Senegal, and will help strengthen the social and inclusive impact of Dakar 2026, including by facilitating the participation of young people from cities and towns such as Mbacké, where he was born.

This partnership is the latest demonstration of Dakar 2026’s ability to engage influential voices on a global scale and embody a powerful ambition: to make these YOG a universal celebration of youth, sport and Africa’s potential.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Olympic Committee (IOC).

About Dakar 2026:
The Dakar 2026 YOG will take place from 31 October to 13 November 2026. The first Olympic sporting event to be held in Africa, the YOG will bring together around 2,700 young athletes aged up to 17 from around the world, across three host zones: Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly.

The Dakar 2026 YOGOC, in coordination with the International Olympic Committee, is responsible for organising this event, with the goal of leaving a lasting legacy for Senegal and Africa as a whole.

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