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The First Group Hospitality and MIDROC Investment Group Sign Master Agreement for 10 Properties in Ethiopia

Source: APO

The First Group Hospitality and MIDROC Investment Group have signed a master agreement to develop and operate 10 properties across Ethiopia, marking a significant growth of internationally branded hospitality assets in the East African country. The agreement was formalized during the Future Hospitality Summit Africa (www.FutureHospitality.com)  in Nairobi.

The portfolio includes independent and Marriott-branded franchised properties in key urban and gateway destinations, including Addis Ababa, Hawassa, Bahir Dar, Jimma, Langano and Danbi. In total, the hotels are expected to deliver approximately 1,140 keys, with openings phased between 2026 and 2031.

The agreement aligns with Dubai-headquartered The First Group Hospitality’s strategy to expand its third-party and white-label management platform in Africa. For Addis Abababased MIDROC Investment Group, the partnership supports the continued growth of its hospitality arm in Ethiopia.

Commenting on the agreement, David Thomson, Senior Vice President – Development of The First Group Hospitality, said: “Ethiopia represents one of the most compelling hospitality growth markets in East Africa, supported by ongoing investment in tourism and infrastructure. Our agreement with MIDROC Investment Group allows us to establish a substantial footprint in the market alongside a partner with deep local expertise, while delivering high-performing assets and creating long-term value across key destinations.”

“We are delighted to partner with The First Group Hospitality, combining their strong track record in development and operations with a shared vision to drive sustainable tourism growth across Ethiopia. This collaboration also reflects our commitment to developing Ethiopian talent and showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage through authentic hospitality experiences,” said Solomon Zewdu, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of MIDROC Hospitality. “We see strong long-term demand across both business and leisure segments, and this partnership positions us to respond at scale.”

The announcement follows a series of recent developments by The First Group Hospitality, including the launch of Ciel Dubai Marina, Vignette Collection by IHG – the world’s tallest hotel – and the signing of franchise agreements with Marriott International, Radisson Hotel Group and IHG.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa).

Media Contacts: 
Robyn James-O’Connor
Senior Vice President of Marketing – The First Group Hospitality
Robyn.OConnor@TFGHospitality.com
Communications support: TFGHospitality@PRByMiretPadovani.com

About The First Group Hospitality:
The First Group Hospitality is a Dubai-headquartered, full-service hospitality management company specializing in hotel operations, asset management, and F&B strategy. With a team of industry veterans and a proven track record, the company delivers tailored solutions that enhance efficiency, optimize revenue, and maximize asset value for investors and hotel owners. As a trusted third-party hotel management provider, The First Group Hospitality partners with leading global brands to drive operational excellence and long-term profitability, thanks to expertise spanning property performance optimization, cost management, and guest experience enhancement. Beyond management, The First Group Hospitality develops and operates a dynamic portfolio of upscale hotels, residences, and award-winning restaurants, creating high-value hospitality assets that stand out in the market.

For more information, visit www.TFGHospitality.com

About MIDROC Investment Group MIDROC:
Investment Group (MIDROC) is one of the largest and most influential private business conglomerates in Ethiopia. Its mission is to develop Ethiopia’s economy through private investment. As a major Ethiopian private company, MIDROC operates across various industries, demonstrating high diversification and organization into six key sectors: Agriculture, Manufacturing, Mining, Commerce, Construction and Real Estate, and Hospitality. The group directly creates employment opportunities for over 80,000 people. Since the 1990s, MIDROC has been a pioneer in transforming Ethiopia’s hospitality sector, contributing significantly to the industry’s growth and development. 

For more information, visit www.MIDROCInvestmentGroup.com

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The Coca-Cola System in South Africa Announces R17.6 Billion Investment, Supporting Economic Growth

Source: APO

The Coca-Cola system in South Africa, comprised of Coca-Cola (http://www.Coca-ColaCompany.com) and its authorized bottlers – Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa and Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages – today announced a planned R17.6 billion investment in South Africa through 2030.

The announcement was made by Luis Felipe Avellar, president of The Coca-Cola Company’s Africa operating unit, at the sixth South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC) in Johannesburg.

The investment will support expanded production capacity, strengthen distribution and accelerate innovation across the Coca-Cola system’s value chain – reinforcing Coca-Cola’s confidence in the South African market and its long-term economic prospects.

With a presence across the country, Coca-Cola has been investing in South Africa’s people and communities for nearly a century. Speaking at the conference, Avellar said: “Our R17.6 billion investment reflects our strong belief in South Africa’s potential and our commitment to growing alongside the communities we serve. We hire locally, produce locally, distribute locally and, where possible, source locally, helping to build a stronger, more integrated economy in South Africa.”

The announcement builds on the findings of a comprehensive socio-economic impact study by global consulting firm Steward Redqueen. The study highlights the scale of the Coca-Cola system’s contribution to South Africa’s economy, employment and communities.

The research reveals that the Coca-Cola system in South Africa, a broad network of local suppliers, distributors and retailers, contributed R51.2 billion in value-added economic activity in 2024.

Through its value chain, the Coca-Cola system supported over 87,000 jobs in sectors like retail, agriculture, manufacturing, transport and services. This included 7,822 direct jobs within the system and an estimated 79,300 jobs supported through suppliers, partners and customers. This means that for every direct job created by the system, 10 more jobs were supported across South Africa’s economy.

The study also highlights the Coca-Cola system’s strong local integration, with R25.6 billion of goods and services sourced from suppliers in South Africa in 2024.

This local procurement supports industries as diverse as sugar production, packaging, transportation and marketing, reinforcing the Coca-Cola system’s role as a partner for growth in South Africa’s economic development.

“South Africa remains one of our most strategic markets in Africa—the beginning of a legacy that dates back to Coca-Cola’s first entry on the continent in 1928. These findings reaffirm the Coca-Cola system’s role as a key driver of shared value and sustainable growth within the South African economy,” said Sunil Gupta, CEO, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa.

The study measured the direct, indirect and induced economic impacts of the Coca-Cola system in South Africa, combining company operational data with trusted third-party economic sources. The analysis demonstrates how Coca-Cola’s local operations ripple across the economy – from farmers growing sugarcane to retailers selling beverages – creating jobs, generating income and building opportunities.

Beyond economic impact, South Africa is one of the beneficiaries of the Coca-Cola system’s Africa Water Stewardship Initiative (http://apo-opa.co/4tlYwkN), a nearly $25 million investment through 2030 to help address critical water-related challenges in local communities in 20 African countries.

“We are optimistic about South Africa’s future, with a continued focus on investing in our business and in initiatives that support economic inclusion and lasting local prosperity,” Charl Goncalves, MD, Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages, concluded.

The investment announcement follows the recent news of Coca-Cola HBC’s agreement to acquire a majority stake in Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, underpinning the importance of South Africa to the Coca-Cola system, and the growth opportunities the country presents.

Zoran Bogdanovic, CEO of Coca-Cola HBC, said: “Congratulations to the Coca-Cola system on this investment announcement. After the transaction completes, we look forward to continuing the great work of Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa in the years to come.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca-Cola.

About The Coca-Cola Company:
The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company’s purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. We sell multiple billion-dollar brands across several beverage categories worldwide. Our portfolio of sparkling soft drink brands includes Coca-Cola, Sprite and Fanta. Our water, sports, coffee and tea brands include Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Fuze Tea, Gold Peak and Ayataka. Our juice, value-added dairy and plant-based beverage brands include Minute Maid, Simply, innocent, Del Valle, fairlife and AdeS. We’re constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain. Together with our bottling partners, we employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.Coca-ColaCompany.com and follow us on Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4v4a5yF), Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/4uWErmB) and LinkedIn (http://apo-opa.co/3NOELmT).

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Europe remains key partner in driving SA’s growth and infrastructure push

Source: Government of South Africa

Europe remains key partner in driving SA’s growth and infrastructure push

South Africa’s long-standing economic partnership with Europe continues to play a pivotal role in driving trade, investment, and infrastructure development, with leaders highlighting the need to sustain momentum and deepen collaboration to unlock growth.

This emerged during a high-level panel on Economic Diplomacy and Regional Cooperation at the Sixth South Africa Investment Conference on Tuesday.

European Union (EU) Ambassador to South Africa Sandra Kramer underscored the scale of the relationship, describing Europe as South Africa’s largest trading and investment partner.

“About 23% of trade in goods is between South Africa and the EU, while around 43% of foreign direct investment comes from Europe,” Kramer said.

She added that approximately 1 700 European companies operate in South Africa, supporting over 500 000 direct jobs and an estimated 1.6 million indirect jobs.

Kramer pointed to the Southern African Development Community–European Union Economic Partnership Agreement as a cornerstone of the relationship, noting that it allows 98% of South African goods to enter the EU market duty-free. 

“That gives South Africa access to a market of 450 million people,” she said.

French Ambassador David Martinon highlighted the depth of bilateral ties, revealing that French companies have invested around €66 billion in South Africa since 2019 across sectors including energy, manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture.

“These investments span the entire economy, from industrial projects to agri-processing and tourism developments,” Martinon said, adding that French firms continue to expand their footprint in the country. 

From a development finance perspective, Boitumelo Mosako said European funding has played a catalytic role in enabling large-scale infrastructure and development projects.

“European partners don’t just provide funding, they create multiplier effects that unlock further investment,” Mosako, who is the CEO of the Development Bank of Southern Africa, said.

She cited a €200 million green bond backed by the French Development Bank and significant funding from institutions such as the European Investment Bank as examples of how concessional finance has helped scale infrastructure projects in energy, transport, and water.

Mosako added that partnerships with European institutions have also strengthened project preparation and implementation capacity across the region, including cross-border infrastructure initiatives.

Kramer said recent initiatives such as the EU’s €12 billion Global Gateway investment package and the Clean Trade and Investment Partnership are expected to further accelerate investment in green industrialisation, digital infrastructure, and vaccine production.

“We have seen over 200 new European companies entering South Africa in recent years, which signals strong confidence in the country’s investment case,” she said.

Panellists agreed that Europe remains a reliable long-term partner in South Africa’s development agenda, particularly in advancing infrastructure, supporting industrialisation, and driving the transition to a green economy.

They emphasised the importance of maintaining the momentum built through recent engagements, including South Africa’s G20 Presidency, to translate commitments into tangible projects that boost economic growth and regional integration.

The session was moderated by Trudi Makhaya from the Boston Consulting Group. 
– SAnews.gov.za

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SA’s skills pipeline must be seen as an investment asset – Mhlauli

Source: Government of South Africa

SA’s skills pipeline must be seen as an investment asset – Mhlauli

South Africa’s skills pipeline should be seen as a growing investment asset, Deputy Minister in the Presidency Nonceba Mhlauli said on Tuesday.

Speaking during a plenary session on Skills for the Digital and Green Economy at the Sixth South Africa Investment Conference, Mhlauli said the country’s so-called skills gap is less about capability and more about connection.

“South Africa does not have a skills shortage problem. It has a connection problem,” she said. 

Mhlauli’s remarks echoed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s earlier sentiments. The President stressed that skills development, particularly among young people, is central to economic growth and transformation.

“The skilling of our people, especially young people, is critically important as we embark on a skills revolution,” President Ramaphosa told delegates.

Mhlauli said the “skills revolution” is already underway, pointing to the progress made through the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention, which has supported more than 1.7 million young people.

She said hundreds of thousands of young people have already been placed into earning opportunities, with a growing number entering the digital economy.

“What we are seeing through our work in the digital economy is striking… young people can move from learning to earning in a matter of months. They are coming from every part of the country, not just traditional talent hubs, and when given access, they perform, and they stay,” the Deputy Minister said.

She argued that investment in skills development is no longer just a social imperative, but a key driver of economic transformation, particularly as South Africa positions itself for a digital and green economy.

“If we are serious about a digital and green economy, then funding youth skills development is not just a social good. It is a transformation imperative. The real constraint is how quickly we can connect that talent at scale to real demand.”

She further highlighted the importance of strengthening dual systems of education and training, combining formal learning with practical workplace experience to build a sustainable skills pipeline.

According to Mhlauli, the main constraint is not the availability of talent, but the speed at which it can be connected to real economic demand.

“The real constraint is how quickly we can connect that talent at scale to real demand,” she said.

She urged investors, employers and training providers to rethink how they view the country’s workforce potential.

“We need to stop asking whether South Africa has the skills for the digital and green economy, and start asking how we unlock and connect the skills we already have,” she said.

Mhlauli concluded by challenging stakeholders to consider whether the country’s skills pipeline is being fully recognised as an investment opportunity.

“If we get that right, this is not just a workforce story – it is a growth story, and ultimately, an investment story,” Mhlauli said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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President holds bilateral meetings with global and local industry leaders at SAIC

Source: Government of South Africa

President holds bilateral meetings with global and local industry leaders at SAIC

President Cyril Ramaphosa has intensified efforts to attract strategic investment into South Africa’s key growth sectors, holding a series of high-level bilateral meetings with global and local industry leaders on the sidelines of the Sixth South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC) in Sandton, Johannesburg. 

The engagements, held at the Sandton Convention Centre on Tuesday, focused on unlocking investment in agriculture, automotive manufacturing, digital technology and the creative industries, sectors identified as critical to driving inclusive economic growth and job creation.

During a meeting with Chairman and Group CEO of UPL Limited, Jai Shroff, discussions centred on expanding agro-processing capacity, strengthening agricultural inputs and supporting climate-smart farming.

The partnership aims to position South Africa as a regional hub for agricultural inputs and agro-processing, while supporting emerging farmers and boosting food security through innovation.

President Ramaphosa also met with Anant Singh of Videovision Entertainment to explore opportunities in the creative economy. Talks focused on investment in film studios and infrastructure, enhancing film incentives and promoting South Africa as a leading global filming destination.

The collaboration is expected to support skills development, tourism and international co-productions, further strengthening the country’s film and television sector.

In the automotive space, the President engaged Andrew Kirby of Toyota South Africa Motors on advancing investments in green mobility.

Discussions included hybrid electric and hydrogen fuel cell technologies, local battery assembly and supplier development, with a shared goal of positioning South Africa as a regional leader in sustainable automotive manufacturing.

A separate meeting with Charlie Zhang of Chery Auto reinforced this ambition, with both parties committing to expand collaboration in vehicle assembly, exports and green mobility solutions to drive industrial growth and job creation.

The President also prioritised the digital economy, meeting with Kojo Boakye of Meta Platforms to discuss expanding digital infrastructure, supporting small businesses and scaling digital skills programmes.

The partnership aims to enhance digital inclusion and position South Africa as a leading innovation hub on the continent.

In a similar vein, President Ramaphosa held talks with Kabelo Makwane of Google, focusing on investments in cloud infrastructure, data centres and artificial intelligence.

The collaboration is expected to accelerate SME development and strengthen the country’s digital capabilities, supporting entrepreneurship and long-term economic growth.

Collectively, the bilateral engagements signal government’s push to diversify investment across sectors while aligning with its broader agenda of industrialisation, digital transformation and sustainable development. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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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

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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
 

 

GabiK

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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.