SA intercepts four Chinese fishing vessels

Source: Government of South Africa

SA intercepts four Chinese fishing vessels

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Willie Aucamp, has welcomed the swift and coordinated action by law enforcement to intercept four Chinese-flagged fishing vessels that entered South Africa’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and territorial waters without the required authorisation.

“South Africa will not tolerate the unlawful use of its maritime zones. We remain resolute in safeguarding our marine resources and ensuring that our ports are not perceived as ports of convenience. Compliance with our laws is non-negotiable,” the Minister said on Thursday.

The vessels – Zhong Yang 231, Zhong Yang 232, Zhong Yang 233, and Zhong Yang 239 – were placed under guard by the South African Police Service (SAPS) Tactical Team members and Fishery Control Officers at the Port of Cape Town anchorage. 

At the same time, compliance processes were finalised between the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment and the vessel owner, Shenzhen Shuiwan Pelagic Fisheries Co. Ltd.

The vessels initially requested permission on 23 February 2026 to pass through South Africa’s EEZ under “innocent passage” – indicating they would exit by 3 March. 

On 27 February, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) reported that the vessels had also applied for Off-Port Limits (OPL) authorisation without the required justification or documentation, and the request was rejected.

Further investigations by the department revealed that the vessels had already entered South African territorial waters while the OPL request was under consideration. 

They were detected within 12 nautical miles of the KwaZulu-Natal coast and later tracked along the Eastern Cape coastline.

“During this time, the vessels repeatedly switched their Automatic Identification System (AIS) on and off. This is a violation of South African regulations requiring foreign vessels to keep AIS active while transiting national waters. 

“AIS is a critical safety system used to ensure navigational awareness and prevent collisions at sea. Based on the available evidence, there were reasonable grounds to suspect non-compliance with the Marine Living Resources Act 18 of 1998,” the department said.

The Masters of the vessels were charged, and an administrative penalty of R400 000 was imposed. 

The vessel owner subsequently paid the fine, after which the vessels were released and departed South African waters. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle

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Call for policy predictability to support grain farmers

Source: Government of South Africa

Call for policy predictability to support grain farmers

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has called for predictable policies, improved infrastructure and reduced regulatory barriers to support South Africa’s grain producers.

Addressing the Grain SA Congress at NampoPark in Bothaville, in the Free State, on Wednesday, Steenhuisen said grain farmers remain central to the country’s food security and agricultural economy, despite facing mounting structural challenges.

“Very little in South Africa’s food system happens without the work done by grain producers,” he said, noting that staples such as bread, maize meal and livestock feed all begin with decisions made on farms across the country.

Steenhuisen said the agricultural sector employs close to 950 000 South Africans and contributes roughly 6% to 7% of South Africa’s economy when the broader agro-processing value chain is included.

The sector also remains a major foreign revenue source for the country, with agricultural exports worth more than US$15 billion last year, generating a trade surplus of over US$7 billion.

Within the broader agricultural system, the Minister said maize production remains one of the country’s most strategic pillars. South African farmers produce between 10 million and 16 million tonnes of maize annually, depending on rainfall conditions, supplying both domestic consumption and regional export markets.

However, the country remains structurally dependent on wheat imports. South Africa consumes more than 3.5 million tonnes of wheat each year, but local production typically reaches only around two million tonnes, leaving the country reliant on imports for 40% to 50% of its wheat needs.

Steenhuisen said the widening gap between production costs and farm returns has become a major concern across the grain sector.

“That gap reflects a convergence of pressures that producers are being forced to manage simultaneously, including rising input costs, climate variability, infrastructure inefficiencies and global market volatility,” Steenhuisen said.

Input costs remain one of the biggest drivers of financial pressure on farmers, particularly fertiliser and fuel. Fertiliser alone accounts for 35% to 50% of production costs, while South Africa imports more than 80% of its fertiliser requirements, leaving farmers exposed to global supply disruptions and currency fluctuations.

Steenhuisen said recent geopolitical tensions affecting shipping routes in the Middle East could further raise fertiliser transport costs, while diesel prices are projected to increase by about R4.40 per litre from April, adding further pressure on farm budgets.

Fuel already accounts for between 12% and 18% of a farmer’s production costs, meaning incresing prices will affect both winter grain planting and summer harvest operations.

Beyond input costs, Steenhuisen highlighted infrastructure failures as a major constraint on the sector. Freight rail currently carries only 3% of South Africa’s grain and oilseed transport, down from about 20% in 2011, forcing producers to rely increasingly on road transport.

In many farming regions, deteriorating rural roads have become a significant cost burden, increasing fuel consumption, vehicle maintenance, and transport delays.

Steenhuisen said a recent cooperation agreement between government, business and agricultural organisations aims to identify critical agricultural road corridors for targeted infrastructure investment, beginning with a pilot project in the Free State.

Predictable policy implementation was also essential, he said, particularly regarding the wheat import tariff system, which is designed to balance domestic production with the country’s reliance on imported wheat.

He said administrative delays in publishing tariff adjustments can create volatility in the value chain and expose importers, millers and farmers to significant financial risks.

Steenhuisen said government is exploring options for a more automated tariff adjustment system to improve predictability and reduce administrative delays.

Looking ahead, the Minister said innovation and research will be critical to the long-term sustainability of grain production, particularly as climate change increases weather-related risks.

Advances in plant breeding technologies, including gene-editing techniques, such as CRISPR [a revolutionary gene-editing technology derived from bacterial immune systems that allows scientists to precisely add, remove, or alter DNA sequences], could help improve crop resilience and yield stability under changing climatic conditions.

Steenhuisen also highlighted the potential for expanding domestic demand for maize through industries such as biofuels and agro-processing, which could reduce the sector’s dependence on volatile export markets.

“Food security ultimately rests on farm profitability. If farmers cannot operate viable businesses, the entire food system becomes fragile.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK

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Qatar Strongly Condemns Israeli Attacks on Southern Lebanon

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, March 13, 2026

The State of Qatar strongly condemns the Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon, considering them a blatant violation of international humanitarian law and UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs calls on the international community to fulfill its responsibilities by compelling the Israeli occupation authorities to cease their repeated attacks on Lebanon and to respect international conventions and laws.

The Ministry affirms the State of Qatar’s unwavering stance towards the Republic of Lebanon, its unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, and its full support for all efforts that enhance its stability and prosperity.

Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Receives Phone Call from Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, March 12

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received Thursday a phone call from HE Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of the Kingdom of Spain Jose Manuel Alvarez.
Discussion during the call, focused on the developments of the military escalation in the region and its serious repercussions on regional and international security and stability, as well as ways to resolve all disputes peacefully.
During the call, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated his condemnation of the Iranian attacks on Qatari territory, stating that they are unacceptable under any pretext or justification. He noted that the State of Qatar has always been keen to distance itself from regional conflicts and has sought to facilitate dialogue between Iran and the international community.
His Excellency warned against the irresponsible targeting of vital infrastructure, particularly that related to water, food, and energy facilities, stressing that such actions set dangerous precedents that will expose the region’s people to multiple risks. He also emphasized the need for an immediate cessation of all escalatory actions, return to the negotiating table, and prioritization of reason and wisdom, working to contain the crisis in a way that preserves the region’s security.
For his part, HE the Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation called for de-escalation, the application of reason, and a return to negotiations and diplomatic means to avoid further chaos.

Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Receives Phone Call from Canadian Foreign Minister

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, March 12, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received a phone call from Her Excellency Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada.
Discussion during the call, dealt with the developments of the military escalation in the region and its serious repercussions on regional and international security and stability, as well as ways to resolve all disputes peacefully.
During the call, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated his condemnation of the Iranian attacks on Qatari territory, stating that they are unacceptable under any pretext or justification. He noted that the State of Qatar has always been keen to distance itself from regional conflicts and has sought to facilitate dialogue between Iran and the international community.
His Excellency warned against the irresponsible targeting of vital infrastructure, particularly that related to water, food, and energy facilities, stressing that such actions set a dangerous precedent that will expose the region’s people to multiple risks. He also emphasized the need for an immediate cessation of all escalatory actions, a return to the negotiating table, and the prioritization of reason and wisdom, working to contain the crisis in a way that preserves the region’s security.
For her part, the Canadian Foreign Minister called for de-escalation, the application of reason, and a return to negotiations and diplomatic means to avoid further chaos. 

Qatar Participates in GCC Media Stand at UN on UNSC Draft Resolution Condemning Iranian Attacks

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, March 12, 2026

HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani participated in a media stand organized by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) group at the United Nations in New York. The media stand addressed the draft resolution submitted to the UN Security Council by the Kingdom of Bahrain, on behalf of the GCC states and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, which condemns Iranian attacks on the territories of GCC member states and other countries.

In a statement delivered during the media stand, Her Excellency noted that the draft resolution was submitted in response to the unjustified and illegal attacks launched by the Islamic Republic of Iran against the territories of GCC member states, including the State of Qatar.

She explained that these attacks constitute a flagrant violation of national sovereignty and a direct assault on the security and territorial integrity of the GCC states, representing an unacceptable escalation that threatens the security and stability of the region.

Noting that the draft resolution is consistent with the fundamental principles of international law and the Charter of the United Nations, she said that the large number of countries sponsoring it reflects a broad understanding of the gravity of these attacks.

In this context, Her Excellency expressed the State of Qatar’s hope that the UNSC would fulfill its responsibilities and unite in support of the draft resolution, sending a clear message about the need to immediately halt these attacks.
She affirmed that no casualties were reported, thanks to the vigilance, efficiency, and high level of readiness of the Qatar Armed Forces and their air defense systems.

Her Excellency stressed that these attacks targeted the sovereign territory of the State of Qatar, endangered the civilian population, and caused damage to civilian infrastructure, emphasizing that these actions constitute a clear violation of international law and the Charter of the United Nations.

Her Excellency added that the State of Qatar has been among the countries calling for dialogue with the Islamic Republic of Iran, in line with its policy of prioritizing the resolution of disputes and conflicts through peaceful means. However, the continued targeting of Qatari territory does not reflect good faith and profoundly undermines the foundations of understanding upon which bilateral relations between the two countries were based.

Her Excellency reiterated the State of Qatar’s strong condemnation of these attacks, affirming its full right to respond in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter, in defense of its sovereignty and to protect its security and national interests.

Stressing that the message today is clear and simple: the Security Council must act and fulfill its responsibilities, Her Excellency warned that failure to respond would send a dangerous message that attacks on neighboring countries, which have nothing to do with the conflict, can go unpunished.

President of Zimbabwe Welcomes Rugby Africa President to Discuss Zimbabwe’s Preparation for Rugby World Cup 2027

Source: APO

Today, Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com), met with His Excellency Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe, at State House to discuss the need for Rugby Africa and Zimbabwe to support the nation’s preparation for the Rugby World Cup 2027, one of the largest sporting events in the world.

After 34 years, Zimbabwe returns to the Rugby World Cup, with the team—known as the Zimbabwe Sablessecuring victory in the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup in Kampala to confirm their qualification. The achievement marks a historic moment for the nation, as Zimbabwe becomes the only African team to qualify through the regional competition, aside from reigning champions, South Africa’s Springboks, who qualify automatically.

Organised by the Zimbabwe Rugby Union, the meeting highlights the importance of strong collaboration between national governments, sports ministries and continental rugby bodies to ensure African teams have the structure, preparation and resources needed to compete at the highest level.

“I had the honour of meeting His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa today, and what stood out to me is how much the government here truly cares about the Zimbabwe Sables and the future of rugby in Zimbabwe. That level of commitment from leadership contributes massively to what this team can achieve. To Zimbabwe, it is not what Zimbabwe can do for you — it is what you can do for Zimbabwe. This moment belongs to the country and to the young men wearing that jersey. The Zimbabwe Sables have earned their place back on the world stage after 34 years, and every Zimbabwean should be proud. When government, the union and Rugby Africa come together with a clear vision, the possibilities for how we move forward are enormous. Our responsibility now is to build the structures, the preparation and the unity around these players so that when they go to the Rugby World Cup, they carry the pride of an entire nation,” said Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa.

Mensah reiterated Rugby Africa’s commitment to supporting Zimbabwe rugby as it builds momentum through new leadership structures, improved preparation, and the dedication of its players and staff. He also emphasised the importance of continued investment in the game and the opportunity to bring more continental tournaments to Zimbabwe, praising the strong support shown by government towards the Zimbabwe Sables and the broader development of rugby in the country.

The meeting also emphasised the broader role governments can play in supporting rugby beyond infrastructure, including investing in youth development, high-performance structures and competitive pathways. Also in attendance were Steph Nel, World Rugby Senior High Performance Consultant for Africa, and David Gilbert, former President of Botswana Rugby, former Vice President of Rugby Africa and current adviser to the President of Rugby Africa.

Zimbabwe’s qualification reflects the determination of both the government and the rugby community, with players and supporters working together to restore the nation’s place on the global rugby stage.

The Rugby World Cup 2027, organised by World Rugby, will take place in Australia, bringing together the best teams from across the globe. Among them will be South Africa, the only nation in history to have won the Rugby World Cup four times, underlining the continental growth and talent of rugby across Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.

To Access Images (copyright free and available for media use): Click Here (https://apo-opa.co/4s8rrZu)

Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Manager
nicole.vervelde@rugbyafrique.com

About Rugby Africa:
Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com) is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional associations under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women’s rugby. Rugby Africa organizes various competitions, including the qualifying tournaments for the Rugby World Cup and the Africa Sevens, a qualifying competition for the Olympic Games. With 40 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to promoting and developing rugby across the continent. World Rugby highlighted Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia as three of the six emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.

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British Council Joins United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Global Education Coalition and International Task Force on Teachers for Education 2030

Source: APO


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The British Council (www.BritishCouncil.org) has been formally recognised by UNESCO as a new member of two key global education initiatives: the Global Education Coalition and the International Task Force on Teachers for Education 2030. This membership demonstrates and reinforces the British Council’s commitment to global education recovery, equity, and innovation, and strengthens its role in shaping international policy and partnerships for inclusive, quality teaching and learning.

The Global Education Coalition was launched by UNESCO in 2020 to mitigate the impact of the educational disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Post-pandemic, the Coalition’s priorities have evolved to support Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4), which focuses on ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. The Global Education Coalition is advancing transformation in the education sector, bringing together over 200 partners from governments, multilateral organisations, civil society and the private sector to collaborate and work towards our shared goals. As a Coalition member, the British Council will contribute its extensive experience in teacher development, English language education and inclusive learning to support countries in building resilient, future-ready education systems.

The British Council has also joined the International Task Force on Teachers for Education 2030, dedicated to addressing the teacher-shortage crisis and advancing the status and support of educators worldwide. The International Task Force on Teachers for Education 2030, or Teacher Task Force (TTF), is a global independent alliance which raises awareness, expands knowledge and supports countries working on improving teaching quality and teacher-related issues. The TTF members include national governments, intergovernmental organisations, non-governmental organisations, international development agencies, civil society organisations, private sector organisations and UN agencies.

With over 90 years of experience supporting teacher education and professional development around the world, the British Council will bring valuable knowledge, skills and connections to this task force, particularly in supporting teachers in fragile, multilingual, and/or under-resourced contexts.

Scott McDonald, Chief Executive of the British Council, said:

“Coordinated action for education has never been more urgent. Our participation in these global education initiatives will amplify the voices of teachers and learners worldwide, particularly in communities where opportunities are limited. We look forward to working with our global partners to share best practices, co-create solutions and champion inclusive, high-quality education as a foundation for peace, prosperity, and social cohesion.”

The British Council delivers a wide range of education programmes that strengthen teaching quality, improve learning outcomes, and promote equity and inclusion. From large-scale teacher development initiatives in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, to innovative digital learning platforms and support for English language teachers in conflict-affected regions, the organisation works in partnership with ministries of education, schools, universities and civil society to drive systemic improvements. Its approach is rooted in research, collaboration, and responsiveness to local context, ensuring that solutions are both sustainable and scalable.

The British Council has played a vital role in supporting education globally, working in partnership with over 50 ministries of education in 2025-26 to help build inclusive and future-facing education systems. Hosting the largest global online community of practice for 3.9 million teachers and teacher educators, we have unique opportunities for engagement with both practitioners and policymakers.

Participation in both the Global Education Coalition and the Teacher Task Force will create new opportunities for the British Council to work in partnership to drive global impact, support ministries of education, school leaders, teachers, and young people with evidence-based programmes, peer learning networks and scalable innovations that reflect the diverse needs of its beneficiaries. The British Council’s active engagement in these forums will help ensure that learners and educators in all contexts benefit from global collaboration, policy alignment and sustained investment in education.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of British Council.

For any further enquiries contact:
george.wilson@britishcouncil.org

About the British Council:
The British Council is the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities. We support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide. We do this through our work in arts and culture, education and the English language. We work with people in over 200 countries and territories and are on the ground in more than 100 countries. In 2024–25 we reached 599 million people.

www.BritishCouncil.org

CORRECTION – Beyond the balance sheet: Afreximbank unveils Season II of ‘Impact Stories,’ showcasing transformative projects across two continents

Source: APO – Report:

African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) is pleased to launch the second season of its documentary series, Impact Stories. Building on the success of the inaugural season, the new collection of six films expands the series’ geographic scope to capture the Bank’s growing footprint across Global Africa, featuring stories from the Caribbean and Africa.

Produced by Afreximbank in partnership with Create, CNN International Commercial’s branded content studio, Season Two takes viewers on location to Grenada, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Nigeria. The series brings to life the impactful outcomes of strategic investments, moving beyond finance to capture the human and economic transformation unfolding across the continent and its diaspora. Each episode provides an intimate look at the landmark projects and partnerships that are unlocking enterprise, building critical infrastructure, and fostering a new era of prosperity.

Featuring stories that highlight the breadth and impact of Afreximbank’s interventions — from the expansion of the Silversands Resort in Grenada, a flagship project of deeper Africa-Caribbean cooperation, to the development of Dangote Refinery in Lagos, the films illustrate the scale of ambition driving Africa’s economic future. Viewers will be transported to Aba, Nigeria, to see how the Geometric Power project is revitalising a historic industrial hub with reliable electricity, and to Ghana, where the series follows the journey of cocoa from farm to global market through the Bank’s partnership with Plot Enterprise.

The series also celebrates the rise of Africa’s creative economy, spotlighting Ghanaian fashion brand Boyedoe as it prepared for its debut on global stage at Paris Fashion Week, supported by Afreximbank’s Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) programme. The final episode explores the renovation of Abidjan’s iconic Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium, showcasing how investment in national infrastructure delivers wide-reaching cultural and economic benefits for local communities.

Mrs. Anne Ezeh, Director of Communications and Events at Afreximbank, emphasised the series’ role in documenting the Bank’s core mission and impact: “These films are much more than stories about investment and projects; they are portraits of partnership and progress, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to fostering economic independence. By showcasing the entrepreneurs, communities, and national economies we partner with, we are sharing a vision of a prosperous and integrated Global Africa. This showcase is vital because it demonstrates that the building blocks for greater economic integration are already in place or being built now, inspiring businesses and regions to accelerate intra-African trade and encouraging entrepreneurs to forge cross-border collaborations that drive development at home and abroad.”

Martin Laing, Senior Director of Production and Global Executive Producer at CNN International Commercial’s Create Brand Studio, said: “It’s been a real privilege to work hand in hand with Afreximbank and their incredible team as co producers of Impact Stories again for the second season. Together, we’ve built a compelling, audience first YouTube documentary series dedicated to telling powerful human stories and showcasing the real-world impact of their initiatives across Africa, its global diaspora, and beyond. We are incredibly proud to collaborate on a truly international series that puts people at the heart of the storytelling and connects meaningfully with audiences around the world.”

The six new episodes which will debut on Afreximbank TV (https://apo-opa.co/3PjBiwR) on March 12th and serve as a powerful testament to Afreximbank’s mandate to finance and promote trade, as well as demonstrating how strategic investments are turning opportunity into tangible prosperity for businesses and communities across Africa and the Caribbean. The series will be promoted in high impact formats across CNN.com and in a long-form TV campaign across CNN International.

– 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 GCR (international scale) at “Stable”, Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), and Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A). 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

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Enlit Africa 2026 Programme: 280+ speakers, African nuclear 2.0, Bruce Whitfield Business Breakfast

Source: APO – Report:

Enlit Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4cEX08g) has released its full 2026 conference programme, featuring 280+ speakers across 8 specialised tracks including a new African Nuclear 2.0 session covering Koeberg’s 20-year life extension and Ghana’s nuclear vendor selection process.

The event, taking place 19-21 May 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, expects 7,200+ attendees and 250+ exhibitors, making it Africa’s largest gathering of energy and water professionals.

Award-winning business journalist and best-selling author Bruce Whitfield will deliver the opening address at the Project & Investment Network Business Breakfast on 19 May, kicking off three days of strategic sessions, deal-making platforms, and technical masterclasses.

New programme content includes:

African Nuclear 2.0 – A dedicated session examining the transition from planning to execution, featuring:

Koeberg Nuclear Power Station’s successful 20-year life extension (Units 1 and 2 now licensed until 2044/2045)

Ghana’s progression to Phase 3 of its nuclear programme, evaluating US, Chinese, and Russian technology bids

West African Power Pool‘s 10 GW regional nuclear capacity target

Small Modular Reactor (SMR) deployment readiness across African grids

Independent Transmission Projects (ITP) – A new session exploring how private investment is unlocking Africa’s transmission bottleneck, featuring global case studies from India’s PowerGrid and lessons for scaling grid capacity across the continent.

Generation Masterclasses – Five interactive roundtables on gas-to-power, nuclear, hydro power, clean coal, and hydrogen.

AI in Africa’s Power Grid – Examining practical deployment realities, real-time analytics, and predictive maintenance applications already in operation across African utilities.

Conference sessions and technical hub sessions on the expo floor are CPD-accredited by the South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (SAIEE) and the South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE).

Co-located platforms:

Water Security Africa features country playbooks from Namibia (55-year potable reuse programme), Uganda (NRW reduction from 42% to 32%), Cape Town (Day Zero recovery strategies), and sector-specific stewardship sessions with Harmony Gold, Heineken, Mediclinic, and Growthpoint Properties.

Project & Investment Network (P&IN), part of the new Level 2 Executive Experience, connects project developers, investors, African utility CEOs, and DFIs through structured matchmaking, ministerial dialogues, and project briefings. Over the past two years, P&IN has facilitated $3 billion in project pitches.

Utility CEO Forum brings together 35+ confirmed utility CEOs under Chatham House Rule for candid, off-the-record strategic discussions on unbundling, prosumer management, and financial sustainability.

Municipal Forum addresses South African municipalities’ distribution, metering, and revenue challenges, including sessions on NRW management, tariff reform, Cost of Supply studies, and electrifying informal settlements.

Technical Hub sessions on the exhibition floor offer free, CPD-accredited training across Power, Renewable Energy & Storage, and Water tracks, with confirmed speakers from Eskom, ENGIE SA, ACTOM, National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA), RenEnergy, and Matla Energy.

Site visits on 22 May include Koeberg Nuclear Power Station and the V&A Waterfront desalination plant.

Pass options:
Free expo pass registration: https://apo-opa.co/4bl2bYu       

Free expo passes provide access to 250+ exhibitors and CPD-accredited Technical Hub sessions.

Delegate Pass:
Early bird registration closes 3 April 2026. Delegate passes start at R15,100 (Silver), with P&IN Executive passes at R32,000 including access to the Bruce Whitfield breakfast, Level 2 executive lounge, and investor matchmaking.

Download the full programme: https://apo-opa.co/3NwCble

Register: https://apo-opa.co/4cEX08g

– on behalf of VUKA Group.

Contact:
Speaking opportunities:
Claire Volkwyn
Claire.volkwyn@wearevuka.com

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

About Enlit Africa:
Enlit Africa brings together utilities, municipalities, investors, technology providers, and policymakers to shape Africa’s energy and water future. Co-located with Water Security Africa, Project & Investment Network, Utility CEO Forum, Municipal Forum, and Women in Energy, the event provides a platform for strategic decision-making, deal facilitation, and technical knowledge transfer.

Enlit Africa 2026 takes place 19-21 May at the CTICC, Cape Town, South Africa.

About VUKA Group:
VUKA Group connects people and organisations across Africa’s energy, mining, mobility, green economy, and retail sectors through events, content, and strategic networking. Venture partners to The Global Trust Project and leaders of NPO Go Green Africa.

www.WeAreVuka.com

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