Category: English

Posted on

Emirates arrives in Cape Town with a third daily service and its newest aircraft

Source: APO

  • EK778 lands at Cape Town International Airport for the first time, bringing the Emirates A350 to South Africa
  • Emirates has also reinstated its fourth daily service to Johannesburg, and now operates a consistent and reliable schedule of 56 weekly flights between South Africa and Dubai  ​

Emirates’ (www.Emirates.com) third daily service on the Dubai-Cape Town route landed at Cape Town International Airport at 18:05 yesterday, marking the first arrival of flight EK778. This also marks the debut of the airline’s next-generation Airbus A350 in South Africa.

The A350 (https://apo-opa.co/3ReSghd) is the newest aircraft type to join Emirates’ all widebody fleet, introducing the latest in-flight experience. The bright and airy cabins have been thoughtfully designed to provide more space and comfort in every cabin, whilst cutting-edge technology and enhanced entertainment options elevate every flight. The deployment also increases access to the airline’s award-winning Premium Economy cabin, which first launched in South Africa in September 2025 and has proved consistently popular with travellers. 

Afzal Parambil, Emirates’ Regional Manager for Southern Africa, said, “Cape Town has long been one of the most popular destinations on our African network. The launch of a third daily service, operated with our newest aircraft, shows how much we believe in this market. The new flight gives travellers more options and an easier connection to our global network through Dubai, while the A350 offers the latest passenger experience. We’d like to extend our thanks to the South African authorities for their partnership and support in securing this new service, and look forward to welcoming passengers onboard.”

The new flight enhances connectivity for South African travellers, offering more choice, flexibility, and improved access to Emirates’ global network, via Dubai, especially long-haul destinations in West Asia, Australasia and the Far East.

The launch of the new service also builds on the agreement signed in April 2026 between Emirates and Wesgro, the tourism, trade, and investment promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape. The two organisations are working together to bring more visitors from key markets such as the Gulf, the Far East, and India.

Outside of Cape Town, Emirates also reinstated its fourth daily flight to Johannesburg on 1 July 2026, boosting weekly connectivity to Dubai to 56 weekly services from its three South African gateways. The deployment is further supported by the seasonal deployment of the second A380 service into Johannesburg. EK761 and EK762 will now be operated by a full retrofitted A380, equipped with the in-demand Premium Economy cabin and the latest cabin interiors, enhancing Emirates world-class offering and boosting capacity in and out of South Africa’s largest and busiest international airport. 

By enhancing its frequencies, Emirates is not just supporting passenger traffic, but facilitation global trade too. Optimising the belly capacity in the Boeing 777 and A350, as well as the daily flight from Durban, Emirates SkyCargo uplifts key commodities from South Africa such as fresh fruit and vegetables, chilled meat, dairy, seafood and fresh cut flowers, and transports them worldwide, connecting South African businesses with their global customers, quickly, reliably and efficiently.

For more information or to book tickets, visit www.Emirates.com. Tickets can also be booked on Emirates App, Emirates Retail stores, Emirates contact centre, or via travel agents.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Emirates Group.

Media files

.

Posted on

Buenassa Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to Spotlight Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Mineral Beneficiation Strategy at African Mining Week

Source: APO


.

Eddy Kioni, CEO of Buenassa – the DRC’s first integrated metals trading company specializing in the supply of domestically beneficiated minerals – has confirmed his participation as a speaker at African Mining Week (AMW) 2026, taking place from October 14–16 in Cape Town.

Kioni will participate in the panel discussion Realigning National and International Goals to Advance Global Investment in Africa’s Value Chain, where industry leaders will examine strategies for mobilizing investment to strengthen Africa’s mining sector and accelerate value addition.

His participation comes as Buenassa advances its multi-phase copper and cobalt hydrometallurgical refinery in Lualaba Province, supporting the DRC’s strategy to maximize value from its critical minerals through domestic processing and the export of value-added products. Scheduled to begin operations by 2028, the facility is designed to produce up to 120,000 metric tons of high-grade copper cathodes and 20,000 metric tons of cobalt sulphate annually at full capacity.

Strategic partnerships with the DRC government and the UAE’s AHQ Group to accelerate the refinery project underscore Buenassa’s collaborative approach to mobilizing the capital, technical expertise and strategic partnerships needed to expand the DRC’s mineral beneficiation industry.

Beyond refining, Buenassa is pursuing an ambitious growth strategy across the mining value chain. In February 2026, the company submitted a $1.5 billion acquisition proposal for copper and cobalt producer Chemaf, a transaction that would significantly expand Buenassa’s upstream mining portfolio while strengthening integration across exploration, production, processing and international metals trading.

Serving as Africa’s Most Influential Mining Conference, AMW 2026 brings together governments, mining companies and investors, offering Kioni an opportunity to showcase Buenassa’s integrated investment model, share updates on the company’s flagship refinery development and engage with prospective partners.

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

Posted on

eThekwini intensifies clean-up efforts ahead of Hollywoodbets Durban July

Source: Government of South Africa

eThekwini intensifies clean-up efforts ahead of Hollywoodbets Durban July

As excitement builds ahead of the Hollywoodbets Durban July, the eThekwini Municipality has intensified clean-up operations across key routes, public spaces, and event precincts to welcome thousands of visitors, racegoers and stakeholders.

The Hollywoodbets Durban July will be held on Saturday, 4 July 2026, at the Greyville Racecourse in KwaZulu-Natal.

Municipal teams have been deployed to remove litter, clear illegal dumping hotspots, and improve the cleanliness and appearance of areas expected to experience high volumes of pedestrian and vehicle traffic during the event.

According to the municipality, the initiative forms part of the city’s preparations for one of Durban’s flagship annual events, and aims to ensure that public spaces are clean, safe, and welcoming for residents and visitors.
The municipality said the clean-up campaign also underscores the municipality’s environmental sustainability and responsible urban management.

“By enhancing the condition of public spaces, the initiative not only improves the city’s image but also promotes shared responsibility for keeping Durban clean and attractive.

“Residents and visitors are encouraged to support these efforts by disposing of waste responsibly, using the street litter bins provided, and refraining from littering and illegal dumping,” the municipality said in a statement on Thursday.

The municipality reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a culture of cleanliness and environmental stewardship before, during and after major events.

“Through sustained service delivery and partnerships with communities and stakeholders, the city continues to promote civic pride while ensuring Durban remains a safe, clean, and welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike.”

Repatriation operation

Meanwhile, eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba has overseen the clean-up of the drive-in site, which had been used as a processing centre for Malawian nationals awaiting repatriation.

Xaba thanked all stakeholders, who played a role in the successful operation, including national, provincial and local government departments, non-profit organisations, law enforcement agencies, and the Malawian government.

According to the municipality, more than 20 000 Malawian nationals have been processed and repatriated from the Sherwood and drive-in sites. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK

3

Posted on

Over 500 buses processed as repatriation efforts continue

Source: Government of South Africa

Over 500 buses processed as repatriation efforts continue

Government has processed over 500 buses for the repatriation of thousands of individuals back to their respective countries, Home Affairs Minster Dr. Leon Schreiber said.

“In terms of the repatriation process overall, there were over 30 000 individuals out of eThekwini alone that we’ve repatriated. The latest number of buses from the government side that we have processed is 525 buses, so indeed, we’re looking at tens and thousands that’s already been successfully repatriated,” the Minister said.

Schreiber, who is also part of government’s Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Migration, visited the Beitbridge border post in Musina on Wednesday.

“It’s a massive operation. It’s really impressive to see how we have managed to do this as the IMC as the collective. What we have done is to say, instead of having these decentralised locations across the country, where people have to be processed by Home Affairs and by the SAPS [South African Police Service], let’s create one facility where one can go, where we have a secure space where we can have all of the different government departments on site,” Schreiber said.

Speaking to media, the Minister described the process as complex.

“It is a major logistical operation and we’ve moved all of that work to Musina. At the moment, we have about 4000 people still at the Showgrounds. Our intention is to work through that and for all new arrivals to go to the temporary repatriation facility built by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure. I visited both sites earlier,” he said.

Schreiber described the sites as offering a much better environment that is dignified.

“We are going to have ablutions, water, food and all of the processing work  in one location. The message is the work continues,” he said.

The Minister’s visit follows planned demonstrations across the country, which took place on Tuesday, 30 June.

Earlier this week, government assured citizens that it is actively managing migration through lawful, coordinated and constitutional measures.

READ | Government reaffirms commitment to managing migration

“Our objective remains clear: a South Africa where immigration laws are respected and enforced, where borders are secure, where communities are safe, where businesses compete fairly, and where human dignity and constitutional values are upheld,” a statement issued by the IMC said. – SAnews.gov.za 

Neo

3

Posted on

Limpopo councillor arrested on attempted bribery rearrested on false pretence

Source: Government of South Africa

Limpopo councillor arrested on attempted bribery rearrested on false pretence

A Limpopo councillor, initially arrested for allegedly attempting to bribe a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) investigator, has been rearrested on an outstanding Makhado warrant for theft by false pretence.

Thulamela Municipality councillor Netshivhumbe Gumani was arrested on Monday after being granted R10 000 bail for the alleged bribery matter, which was heard in the Molopo Magistrate’s Court in Mahikeng. 

“Gumani was arrested by the Makhado police on an outstanding Makhado warrant for theft by false pretence.

“The charges stem from allegations that Gumani solicited funds from several businesspeople in Limpopo to finance political activities linked to the 2014 youth league conference in Sekhukhune District,” the SIU said. 

He is scheduled to appear in court again on 18 September 2026.  

On the bribery allegations, the corruption-busting unit explained that Gumani attempted to offer a senior SIU investigator R70 000 to “obstruct justice in the ongoing investigation into tenders at the Mahikeng Local Municipality”.

“It is alleged that Gumani was facilitating the bribe on behalf of Anacot Trading, a company associated with questionable financial activities involving municipal contracts.

“The SIU investigation… found that the appointed service provider received approximately R179 million from Mahikeng Municipality for two lease agreements.

“Immediately after receiving the payment, the service provider transferred R28 million to Anacot Trading, owned by Shahzaad Mohamed Hussein. When the SIU contacted Hussein to explain why he received R28 million, he allegedly sent Gumani to the SIU to influence the outcome of the investigation,” the unit said.

Acting SIU Head, Leonard Lekgetho, assured that the unit maintains confidence in the strength of the case against Gumani.

“The alleged attempt to bribe an SIU investigator is a serious attack on the integrity of South Africa’s justice system and on the fight against corruption. No amount of intimidation or inducement will deter the SIU from fulfilling its mandate.

“We commend the investigator for acting with professionalism and integrity, and we will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to ensure that the matter is prosecuted to its conclusion,” Lekgetho said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

0

Posted on

Guesthouse owner alleged to have housed undocumented individuals appears in court 

Source: Government of South Africa

Guesthouse owner alleged to have housed undocumented individuals appears in court 

A 56-year-old foreign national, alleged to have been housing undocumented individuals, has appeared in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court in the Free State, police said.

Guesthouse owner, Lyndon Adentuji Odili, was arrested for contravening the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act 13 of 2002). Odili was granted R10 000 bail, and his case has been postponed to 31 July 2026 for further investigation.

Hs arrest followed a swift intelligence driven response by law enforcement on Tuesday after a tip-off was received by the South African Police Service (SAPS) of several undocumented individuals having been spotted at a guesthouse along Raymond Mhlaba Street in Bloemfontein.

“The information suggested that the individuals were allegedly being hidden at the premises in reaction to the multidisciplinary operation targeting anti-foreigner sentiments during a planned (protests) on the same day.

“Upon arrival at the establishment, police conducted a thorough search of the premises. A total of 18 undocumented foreign nationals were found inside without the necessary legal authorisation to reside in the Republic of South Africa.”

This as government assured citizens that it is actively managing migration through lawful, coordinated and constitutional measures, as planned demonstrations against illegal migration took place across the country on Tuesday.

“The owner of the guesthouse, Mr. Odili, was subsequently summoned to the scene. Following a consultation, he was arrested under Section 40(1) of the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977 (Act 51 of 1977),” the South African Police Service (SAPS) said in a statement on Wednesday.

Odili faces 18 counts of aiding, abetting, assisting, enabling, or helping illegal foreigners in contravention of the Immigration Act.

Separate dockets have also been opened against the 18 undocumented individuals for illegal entry and stay within the country.

The Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General, Thabang Lesia, has commended officers for their swift reaction to the information, reiterating that business and property owners, who deliberately bypass the country’s immigration laws to harbour undocumented individuals will face the full might of the law. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

0

Posted on

Macpherson to launch Built Environment and Construction Safety Framework

Source: Government of South Africa

Macpherson to launch Built Environment and Construction Safety Framework

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson will launch the National Built Environment and Construction Safety Framework at the second Public Works and Infrastructure Summit.

“The National Built Environment and Construction Safety Framework is a multi-sector approach aimed at improving construction safety, prevention of building collapses, and fight against illegal building activities,” the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) said ahead of Friday’s launch.

Hosted by the Council for the Built Environment (CBE), the Summit will be held under the theme: “From Collapse to Confidence.” 

The summit will also strengthen regulatory systems, improve accountability, and embed a culture of safety across the sector. 

“This year’s Summit will bring together government, municipalities, regulators, financiers, academia, industry leaders, contractors and built environment professionals to drive practical solutions for safer, more accountable infrastructure delivery. 

“The Summit aims to strengthen collaboration, improve infrastructure management, and accelerate sustainable reform across the built environment sector,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

0

Posted on

Bafana Bafana arrive to a hero’s welcome after historic World Cup campaign

Source: Government of South Africa

Bafana Bafana arrive to a hero’s welcome after historic World Cup campaign

Bafana Bafana received a hero’s welcome when they landed at OR Tambo International Airport after their historic 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.

The national senior men’s team was greeted by supporters, who turned out in large numbers to celebrate the team reaching the knockout rounds of a FIFA World Cup for the first time in its history.

Addressing a media briefing in Johannesburg on Thursday, captain Ronwen Williams thanked South Africans for supporting the team throughout the tournament.

“Thank you everyone for your support and for this incredible welcome. To experience the unity of the country at a moment like this is amazing.

“The prayers, the support and all the well wishes that were sent our way meant so much to us as a team. We went out there carrying the support, love and belief of [millions of] South Africans,” Williams said.

Bafana Bafana’s journey came to an end on Sunday after a 1 – 0 defeat to tournament co-hosts Canada in a last-32 match at Los Angeles Stadium.

“It’s been a wonderful journey. When we look back at how far we’ve come as a team, especially under Coach Hugo Broos, we can be proud. This achievement at the World Cup is the cherry on top because we’ve been doing excellent work for a long time. We’re just proud and happy that the country is happy,” Williams said.

The team’s coach said he was pleased with their performance during the World Cup.

“It was not easy, but we made it. It is historic for South African football that the team reached the second round of the World Cup, and that was our goal from the beginning. We worked hard. It was not easy, but we succeeded. That’s the most important thing,” Broos said.

Broos said the experience gained at this World Cup would help the team improve and prepare for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

 “That has to be our next objective. And, of course, we want to qualify again for the 2030 World Cup. I think if South Africa can achieve that over the next three or four years, you will immediately see how far South African football has progressed.

“When you’re competing at that level, you learn a lot, and you learn quickly. I think that’s exactly what happened to us at this World Cup,” the coach said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle

0

Posted on

Senegal’s Energy Minister Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 Amid Rapid Oil and Gas Sector Expansion

Source: APO


.

Senegal’s Minister of Energy and Petroleum, Dr. El Hadji Abdourahmane Diouf, has been confirmed as a speaker at African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, taking place October 12-16 in Cape Town. His participation comes as Senegal enters a new phase of energy sector development following a cabinet reshuffle that separated the former Ministry of Energy, Petroleum and Mines into standalone Energy and Petroleum and Mines portfolios, placing greater institutional focus on the country’s rapidly expanding hydrocarbons sector.

AEW 2026 will provide a platform for Senegal to engage investors as it builds on recent upstream successes, advances domestic gas utilization and expands the infrastructure needed to support long-term energy security and industrial growth.

Minister Diouf assumed office in June 2026 following the formation of Senegal’s new government. As head of the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, he is leading efforts to accelerate upstream development, expand domestic gas utilization and strengthen the regulatory framework supporting long-term investment. His appointment comes as Senegal transitions from hydrocarbon explorer to producer, seeking to leverage new oil and gas output to improve energy security, reduce fuel import dependence, lower electricity costs and support industrialization.

The Sangomar offshore oil field exceeded production expectations in 2025, producing 36 million barrels, while exports reached approximately 3.8 million barrels in January 2026 alone. Operator Woodside Energy is evaluating a second phase of development that could further increase production. At the same time, the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project continues to ramp up operations while supplying 35 million standard cubic feet of gas per day to Senegal’s domestic market. In April, national oil company Petrosen secured full ownership of the Yakaar-Teranga gas field, home to an estimated 25 trillion cubic feet of gas that will underpin the country’s long-term gas monetization and gas-to-power strategy.

Beyond upstream development, Senegal is investing heavily in the infrastructure needed to monetize its gas resources domestically. Earlier this year, Petrosen launched its first independently operated $100 million onshore exploration campaign, while the government continues advancing plans for a proposed 400-km domestic gas pipeline network to connect offshore gas production with industrial consumers. As part of its objective to generate 75% of installed power capacity from natural gas, Senegal is also expanding gas-fired generation through projects including the conversion of the existing 335 MW Bel Air power plant and the construction of a new 366 MW gas-fired power plant.

Alongside these investments, Senegal is strengthening the policy framework underpinning long-term sector growth. This year, the government advanced reforms to its local content regulations aimed at increasing domestic participation across the petroleum value chain while adopting its first national standards for solar photovoltaic equipment. Together, these initiatives reflect Senegal’s strategy of leveraging natural gas development alongside renewable energy expansion to support sustainable economic growth.

“Senegal is entering an exciting new phase of energy development, backed by world-class oil and gas resources, ambitious infrastructure investments and progressive regulatory reforms. Minister Diouf’s participation at AEW 2026 provides investors with a timely opportunity to engage directly with the leadership shaping one of Africa’s most dynamic energy markets,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.

At AEW 2026, Minister Diouf is expected to participate in high-level discussions on upstream investment, gas monetization, energy infrastructure and regional energy cooperation, highlighting Senegal’s growing role as one of West Africa’s leading investment destinations.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Posted on

The Africa Property Investment (API) Awards – A Decade of Recognising the Continent’s Boldest Deals and Developments

Source: APO

The awards will be a centrepiece of the 17th annual API Summit (www.APISummit.co.za), taking place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on 17 and 18 September under the theme Bold Capital. Real Momentum. The summit draws more than 600 real estate, hospitality and capital leaders from across the continent and beyond.

“Over the past decade, the API Awards have become the definitive mark of peer recognition in African real estate and hospitality, judged not by sponsors or popularity, but by the industry leaders who understand these sectors best,” says API Events Commercial Director Murray Anderson.

“In this, our 10th edition, new categories let us recognise a wider field, from the boldest new capital commitments to the assets proving their performance over the long term. Ours is an industry moving decisively from ambition to delivery, and these awards exist to honour both,” he adds.

A distinguished panel of industry luminaries will adjudicate each category, honouring the projects, professionals and institutions that set the standard for innovation, sustainability and lasting impact.

This year’s event introduces a new Performance & Legacy category – celebrating enduring impact – alongside new awards spanning the Development, Personnel, and Service, Tech & Innovation.

Recognition that lifts profiles – and attracts investment

The awards have significantly lifted winners’ profiles with the heavyweight investors, developers and financers who convene at the summit, and the broader real estate and hospitality industries.

Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) was named 2025’s Best African Real Estate Bank of the Year, recognised for its deep property finance expertise and ability to structure and execute complex transactions across South Africa and the wider continent.

“Winning the 2025 API Awards, alongside EDGE recognition from the IFC, reflects the collective expertise, commitment and execution capability of our Property Finance team,” says Gerhard Zeelie, Divisional Executive: Property Finance Africa. “The awards reinforce the importance of pairing strong commercial delivery with long-term sustainability and client-focused outcomes.”

Octodec’s Yethu City was deservedly named 2025’s Best New Affordable Housing Development due to its pairing of genuine affordability with considered design, PropTech integration and a community-focused co-living model. 

“The most compelling developments blend meaningful social impact with commercial viability. Yethu City succeeded by deeply understanding its target market and executing with discipline – authentic purpose, proven by delivery, is what makes a project stand out,” says Jeffrey Wapnick, CEO of Octodec Investments Limited. 

Entries and nominations are welcomed from across Africa, with a closing date of 31 July. Click here to enter (https://apo-opa.co/4eVnuSi).

The 2026 categories

Development

  • Best New Affordable Housing
  • Best New Residential (Mid-Market) *New
  • Best New Upmarket Residence *New
  • Best New Mixed-Use / Precinct Development
  • Best New Office Development (Building)
  • Best New Office Fit-Out (Occupier)
  • Best New Hotel / Hospitality Development
  • Industrial, Logistics & Alternative Assets
  • Best New Redevelopment / Refurbishment
  • Best New Safari / Lodge Development *New

Personnel

  • Advisory Consultant of the Year *New
  • Asset Manager of the Year *New
  • Sales Team of the Year
  • Architectural Team of the Year *New
  • Newsmaker of the Year *New
  • Public Sector Real Estate Leader of the Year
  • African Real Estate Leader of the Year (formerly CEO)
  • Outstanding Woman in Real Estate

Service, Tech & Innovation

  • Best African Real Estate Bank of the Year
  • Best Transaction/Deal of the Year
  • Hospitality Consulting & Advisory Partner of the Year *New
  • Facilities Management Team of the Year
  • Most Innovative PropTech Company of the Year

Performance & Legacy *New

  • Best Performing Retail Asset
  • Best Performing Office Asset
  • Best Performing Mixed-Use Asset

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of API Events.

Enquiries: 
Dale Hes
Programmes and Communications Lead
API Events 
Tel: +27 (0) 81406 8840 
Email: dale@apievents.com 

Murray Anderson
Commercial Director
API Events 
Tel: +27 (0) 71 890 7739
Email: murray@apievents.com 

About API Events:
Africa Property Investments (API) Events is Africa’s leading B2B event and thought-leadership platform for real estate investment and hotel development. Over the past 17 years it has hosted 150+ events across 14 African countries, drawing 2,500+ investors, developers, and public-sector leaders annually and helping drive billions in direct investment. Its flagship pan-African API Summit attracts over 600 delegates.

Our main purpose is to mobilise capital across retail, residential, mixed-use, commercial, industrial, and hospitality assets, connecting institutional investors, fund managers, banks, DFIs, developers, operators, and proptech founders.

Media files

.