Category: English

Source: APO

Independent oil and gas exploration firm Rhino Resources has confirmed its participation as a Gold Partner at African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025, taking place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town. The company’s involvement underscores its commitment to unlocking Africa’s hydrocarbon potential in support of AEW’s mission to make energy poverty history by 2030.

Rhino Resources is advancing a robust portfolio of exploration and appraisal campaigns aimed at driving Namibia toward its goal of first oil production by 2030. In 2025, the company made multiple discoveries, including Sagittarius-1X and Capricornus-1X, confirming the Orange Basin’s potential as a global deepwater hotspot. In July, Rhino spudded the Volans-1X well on Block PEL 85 offshore Namibia, a campaign involving 1,200 meters of drilling and collaboration with Halliburton Namibia to strengthen local content development.

In April 2025, the company announced that light oil tests at Capricornus-1X on Block 2914 yielded flow rates exceeding 11,000 stock tank barrels per day, with additional results under evaluation to refine its exploration strategy. Earlier, in February 2025, Rhino completed drilling of Sagittarius-1X on the same block. To reinforce its Namibian operations, Rhino signed a farmout agreement with Azule Energy in December 2024, bringing additional capital, expertise and technical capacity to Block 2914.

Meanwhile, in South Africa, Rhino Resources is preparing a six-well drilling campaign in the Karoo Basin, slated for 2026. The program targets the country’s natural gas, helium and hydrogen potential, positioning South Africa as an emerging player in diversified energy resources. The campaign is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening domestic energy security while opening new avenues for industrial growth and investment.

“Rhino Resources’ operations and success in Namibia’s Orange Basin highlight the vast potential of Africa’s deepwater plays to drive energy security and economic growth,” stated Tomás Gerbasio, VP of Commercial and Strategic Engagement, African Energy Chamber. “Additionally, the company’s planned investments in South Africa mark a significant step in unlocking the country’s untapped natural gas and helium resources, strengthening its role in Africa’s evolving energy landscape.”

Amid its growing footprint across Southern Africa, Rhino Resources will engage with African policymakers, potential partners, market stakeholders and global investors at AEW 2025: Invest in African Energies to advance its projects and forge new deals. The company’s participation will spotlight Namibia’s Orange Basin opportunities alongside South Africa’s upcoming gas developments, further positioning Africa as a global exploration frontier.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

About AEW: Invest in African Energies:
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

Source: APO

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ZESCO Limited (ZESCO), Zambia’s national electricity utility, and Anzana Electric Group (Anzana) (www.Anzana.com) have committed to the key terms of a joint venture for the electrification of millions of people on the Zambian portion of the Lobito Corridor. The US$300 million investment will enable the rehabilitation and expansion of the national electricity network to provide first-time grid-connections for nearly 2 million Zambians by 2030, in alignment with the Zambian Government’s goal of universal access to electricity for all Zambians.  

Witnessed by President Hakainde Hichilema at the first-ever Invest Zambia International Conference in Lusaka in July 2025, the signing of the agreement between ZESCO and Anzana has advanced into finalized terms for a joint venture, paving the way for approximately US$300 million in blended commercial and concessional capital investments. The partnership builds on a Memorandum of Understanding between Anzana and Zambia’s Ministry of Energy signed in February 2025.

“This is about more than infrastructure, it is about regional integration, jobs, and powering a better future for Zambians along the Lobito economic corridor,” said ZESCO Managing Director Eng. Justin Loongo. “We are excited to partner with Anzana who is employing an innovative and inclusive approach to attract capital and rapidly increase electrification rates in rural Zambia.”

The agreement enables not only significant investment in electrifying households, businesses, and industry, but also in new distributed generation to support the reliability of supply in the service area.

“The strategic Lobito economic corridor approach is a model for future regional trade and development,” said Brian Kelly, CEO of Anzana. “We are honored to partner with ZESCO and the Government of Zambia to be the Lobito electrification partner and connect millions of Zambians to the opportunities that reliable electricity can enable. This partnership builds on Anzana’s deep experience in the region, including our development of Weza Power in Burundi, and reflects our commitment to win-win partnerships enabling African countries to lead the next wave of electrification and economic growth.”

The collaboration between ZESCO and Anzana will support new electricity generation, including run-of-river hydropower, and electricity distribution primarily in rural areas, efforts which are critical to unlocking the full potential of the Lobito Corridor to the Zambian economy. The Angola-Zambia-DRC corridor is being developed as a major economic artery for Southern and Central Africa, enhancing trade flow between these mineral-rich regions and global export markets. The agreement envisions that Anzana will lead the development of a pilot project in the North-Western Province of Zambia intended to accelerate the first connections in 2026. Anzana and other development partners will jointly invest US$50 million to enable approximately 40,000 new household and business connections and add up to 8 megawatts of new generation over the course of two years, before expanding the scope to encompass the entire Lobito Corridor region.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Anzana Electric Group.

Contacts:
For ZESCO Limited:
Ms. Muntanga Sibalwa
Senior Manager – Corporate Affairs
Email: MSibalwa@zesco.co.zm
Mobile: +260969766733

For Anzana Electric Group:
Mr. Thom Wallace
Marketing and Communications
Email: thom.wallace@anzana.com
Mobile: +254716507214

About ZESCO Limited:
ZESCO Limited is the national electricity utility of Zambia, which generates, transmits, distributes and supplies electricity and electricity products and solutions in Zambia and Southern Africa. A vertically integrated a public utility, wholly owned by the Government of the Republic of Zambia through the Industrial Development Corporation, ZESCO owns and operates an extensive and robust network comprising several large and small hydroelectric power plants with a combined capacity to generate circa 3,000MW and has over 11,000 kilometers of transmission lines. ZESCO’s interconnected power network with other Southern African Power Pool utilities provides an extended power trading market. ZESCO is aggressively pursuing a diversified electricity mix and is developing a rich pipeline of solar and other renewable projects to integrate into its generation portfolio.

About Anzana Electric Group:
Anzana Electric Group is a leading developer, investor, and operator of hydropower and grid distribution projects across Africa. With presence in East, Central, and Southern Africa, Anzana delivers reliable, affordable power to communities, businesses, and industries. Its innovative approach to partnerships with government, development funders, and private sector in the region is intended to unlock the potential that electricity infrastructure can bring to economic growth. Anzana is backed by private American investors and Gridworks Development Partners, an Africa-focused electricity transmission and distribution investor wholly owned by British International Investment, a UK government development finance institution.

Source: APO

Maia Capital Partners (www.MaiaCapital.co.za) through its Maia Debt Impact Fund I, (“Maia Capital”) announced today that they have provided mezzanine debt funding to Student Living Asset Management (“SLAM”), a South African real estate private equity fund specialising in student accommodation, to acquire a 51% majority stake in the landmark 1,026-bed residence in Stellenbosch, South Africa called Academia. Academia is the largest student residence in Stellenbosch, solidifying SLAM’s position as a leading investor in institutional quality student accommodation in South Africa. 

Located on-campus at Stellenbosch University, Academia offers over one thousand beds across 28 landscaped blocks with a restaurant, padel and volleyball courts, as well as biometric access, CCTV, and 24-hour security. Established in 2000 and managed internally for over 25 years, it supports a 20% international cohort and upholds a strong Code of Conduct for a safe, community-focused student experience. 

Tshandu Ramusetheli, CEO at Maia Capital, remarked: “We are delighted to partner with SLAM on this landmark transaction, which reflects our commitment to addressing the pressing shortfall of student accommodation in South Africa. Our partnership with SLAM not only enhances our portfolio but aligns with our gender-focused investment strategy; by prioritizing female tenants at Academia, and with an all-female management team ensuring exemplary operations, we are fostering an inclusive environment for students. Partnering with real estate firms like SLAM is crucial for the growth of educational infrastructure in our country. Such developments create jobs and contribute significantly to bridging the demand gap for student accommodation” 

This off-market acquisition, completed in partnership with the existing ownership team, demonstrates SLAM’s ability to identify and execute complex high-value transactions of ‘best in class’ assets while preserving operational continuity through ‘best of breed’ operators. 

“This will be business as usual,” said Ndumiso Davidson, CEO and Co-Founder at SLAM. “SLAM invests in assets of scale in defensive locations with a strong operating track record and demonstrable long term student demand. Academia exemplifies the profile of assets we seek to provide our investors. We are joining forces with the existing leadership team. There will be no disruption, no staff overhaul, and no operational restructuring. We’re here to build on a strong foundation, not to fix an operation that’s already working exceptionally well and has been the residence of choice in Stellenbosch for the last 25years.” 

“This acquisition is a strategic anchor for our national portfolio,” added Romeo Makhubela, Chairman of SLAM. “It reflects our belief in this sector’s potential to deliver dependable inflation-beating income while directly supporting educational outcomes and youth development.” 

CMS South Africa acted as legal counsel to Maia Capital 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Maia Capital Partners.

For more information contact:  
Tshandu Ramusetheli  
Chief Executive Officer – Maia Capital Partners 
tshandu@maiacapital.co.za or invest@maiacapital.co.za 
Tel: +27-72-197-8752 
Capital Hill, 6 Benmore Road, Benmore, South Africa – 2196

About Maia Capita Partners:
Maia Capital Partners was established in June 2020 with a mission to generate competitive financial returns while driving positive social and environmental impact through private debt investments. The firm reached its final close in June 2024, raising over R1 billion from South African pension funds.  

The Maia Debt Impact Fund I is dedicated to driving economic transformation by providing mezzanine financing to mid-market companies across a variety of sectors, including renewable energy, affordable housing, healthcare, education, financial inclusion and more. Maia Capital’s focus on economic transformation ensures we support industries that promote infrastructure development, job creation, and sustainable industrialization, while remaining open to a wide range of impactful transactions.  

Maia Capital Partners was founded by a team of seasoned investment professionals with over 80 years of combined experience in private markets, infrastructure, and impact investing. The firm is headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa 

Website: www.MaiaCapital.co.za

Source: APO – Report:

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Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks to the ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD), in Yokohama today: 

I thank the Government and people of Japan for your hospitality and generosity — and all co-organizers for your commitment to Africa.

For more than three decades, TICAD has embodied the spirit of multilateralism — grounded in mutual respect, shared responsibility and a deep belief in Africa’s potential.  With the world’s youngest population, abundant natural resources and a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, Africa is poised for progress.

And this year’s theme — “Co-Create Innovative Solutions with Africa” — reminds us that these same strengths can help shape a more peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world inside and beyond Africa’s borders. Especially as we accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through investment, reform and partnerships.

We meet at a time of interconnected crises and deep inequalities. Tackling these crises requires a clear focus not only on development for Africa, but development with Africa.  And I salute Japan for making this the focus of its cooperation with the continent.

Let me highlight five priorities for our shared journey forward. First, we must reform the institutions of global governance — both political and financial — to reflect today’s realities.  Africa must have a stronger voice in shaping the decisions that affect its future.

That includes long-overdue reform of the Security Council, where incredibly Africa has no permanent member, and other regions remain underrepresented.  And it includes an overhaul of today’s unjust and unfair international financial architecture, that must enhance African representation and endorse a strong African voice in the decisions being made.

Meanwhile, we need bold action on debt relief.  Today, 34 countries spend more on debt service than on health and education.  The Sevilla Commitment points to solutions.  By increasing the capacity of governments to mobilize domestic resources, including through tax reform.  And by establishing a more effective framework for debt relief and tripling the lending capacity of multilateral development banks and their engagement in derisking private investment in the African Continent.

Second, we must invest in sustainable global value chains and regional integration.  Africa’s path for prosperity must focus on adding value to its raw materials, creating decent jobs and building resilience, taking profit of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

And we must also address Africa’s energy paradox.  Africa has enormous renewables potential, but receives just 2 per cent of global investment into renewables and 600 million Africans live without electricity.  And Africa is also home to the critical minerals required to power renewable technologies.  But, the countries hosting them must be the ones to benefit first and most, while adding value to local and global value chains.

Third, we must harness digital innovation — including artificial intelligence (AI) — for development.  But, the African people are still suffering from a wide digital divide.

Japan’s technological leadership can help close this divide and ensure that technology helps African countries catch up with adequate digital public infrastructure, rather than being left behind.  This includes ensuring that all countries can harness the incredible potential of artificial intelligence to power progress for all, as defined in the Pact for the Future.  We have just shared a report outlining innovative financing options to build AI capacity in developing countries.  AI must stand for Africa Included.

Fourth, we need people-centred development.  Young people are the builders of Africa’s future.  Let us invest in their skills and education, particularly STEM [science, technology, engineering and mathematics], and ensure decent jobs, social protection, and a seat at the decision-making table.  Let us invest in women’s full participation across economies, societies and political systems.

Fifth, we must recognize that peace and prosperity go hand in hand.  Sustainable development requires sustainable peace.  By silencing the guns as the African Union clearly points out.  And by ending violence in all its forms and strengthening the social cohesion and stability that can attract investment and business to Africa.

We have the roadmap: the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals, and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.  Let’s co-create solutions that can build a future of dignity, opportunity and peace for all.

– on behalf of United Nations (UN).

Source: APO – Report:

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Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received a phone call from Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said that the call discussed ways to strengthen the distinguished relations between Egypt and Greece, particularly in light of the May 2025 announcement to elevate them to strategic partnership.
The call emphasized the importance of continuing to develop joint cooperation in various fields, with a focus on increasing trade and mutual investments, based on the significant potential both countries have.

The call also touched on the latest regional and international developments of mutual interest. The President reviewed Egypt’s intensive efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, facilitate the delivery of humanitarian and relief aid, and secure the release of hostages and captives. The Greek prime minister praised and supported these efforts.

President El-Sisi and the Greek prime minister underscored the necessity to immediately begin the reconstruction of the Strip once a ceasefire is reached. They stressed their absolute rejection of the displacement of the Palestinian people from their land.
The two sides affirmed that the only path to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region is to grant the Palestinian people their legitimate right to establish an independent state along the June 4, 1967, borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with the two-state solution and relevant international legitimacy resolutions.

The call also addressed a number of priority issues, including cooperation in the fields of energy, electricity interconnection, maritime border demarcation, and combating illegal immigration.
President El-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s firm commitment to protecting religious sanctities on its territory, including St. Catherine’s Monastery, due to its historical and spiritual value. This was appreciated by the Greek prime minister.

– on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

Source: APO – Report:

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Coordinators of the students’ summer work program in Dekemhare sub-zone reported that over 115,000 tree seedlings have been planted through the initiative.

According to information from the education branch in the sub-zone, the program was carried out by 945 students, coordinated by teachers and agricultural experts from seven centers, in collaboration with local residents.

Ms. Rigbe Kifle, head of the education office in the sub-zone, attributed the success of the program to the guidance of agricultural experts and the strong participation of students and the public. She also called for sustained follow-up to ensure the survival and continuity of the trees planted.

Mr. Yemane Abera, administrator of the sub-zone, commended the Forestry and Wildlife Corporation for supplying seedlings on time and praised the participants for their strong involvement.

Similarly, members of the National Union of Eritrean Women branch in the Central Region, together with members of the union in Serejeka sub-zone, conducted a tree-planting campaign from 6 to 20 August in the Embaderho area.

Ms. Alem Belai, head of the union branch in the Central Region, said that the branch has been conducting popular campaigns in the area since 2010.

Ms. Tekea Goitom, head of the union branch in Serejeka sub-zone, added that the various types of trees previously planted are in good condition.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

Source: APO – Report:

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Members of the PFDJ from various sub-zones of Asmara voluntarily donated blood on 19 and 20 August to enrich the blood supply of the National Blood Transfusion Service.

Participants were from the sub-zones of Sembel, Godaif, Gejeret, Tsetserat, and Arbaete Asmara.

Mr. Tekle Habte, coordinator of organization and promotion at the National Voluntary Blood Donors Association, commended the voluntary blood donors in the Central Region for their regular contributions and called on others to follow their noble example.

Noting that PFDJ organizations in the Central Region have made voluntary blood donation a regular yearly activity, Mr. Shumendi Andemariam, head of administrative affairs at the PFDJ office in the Central Region, expressed readiness to continue the program sustainably.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

Source: APO – Report:

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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in partnership with the British Embassy near Monrovia, successfully conducted a one-day capacity-building training for Ministry staff on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, in preparation for Liberia’s upcoming membership on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Non- Permanent in 2026. This strategic initiative underscores Liberia’s commitment to enhancing its diplomatic capabilities and contributing effectively to global peace and security discussions.

The training, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Monrovia, focused on equipping participants with the skills needed for effective communication within the complex UNSC policy environment. Facilitated by Mme. Joanna Mark Reiter, Deputy Chief of Mission at the British Embassy, the session provided practical insights into navigating multilateral diplomacy, drafting impactful statements, and fostering collaboration among UNSC member states. Participants included assistant ministers, senior diplomats, senior desk officers, and administrative staff, all of whom play critical roles in shaping Liberia’s engagement on the global stage.

The program covered key topics such as Using language and Information effectively during the UNSC, Brilliant Briefing for the UNSC, and Super Speeches at the UNSC. Interactive workshops allowed participants to simulate real-world UNSC scenarios, fostering a deeper understanding of the Council’s operational dynamics. Mme. Reiter emphasized the importance of clear, concise communication to advance Liberia’s priorities, including peacebuilding, sustainable development, and human rights advocacy.

Hon. Reginald B. Goodridge, Director General, Foreign Service Institute (FSI), hailed the training as a pivotal step in preparing Liberia for its non-permanent UNSC seat. “This collaboration with the British Embassy strengthens our capacity to represent Liberia’s interests and contribute meaningfully to global peace efforts,” the Director General stated. “We are committed to ensuring our team is well-prepared to engage with confidence and clarity.”

The British Embassy reiterated its support for Liberia’s growing role in international diplomacy. Mme. Reiter noted, “Liberia’s election to the UNSC is a testament to its leadership in West Africa. We are proud to partner with the Ministry to enhance the skills needed for effective participation in this critical global forum.”

This training marks the beginning of a series of preparatory activities planned ahead of Liberia’s UNSC tenure. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed gratitude to the British Embassy for its continued partnership and expertise, which will bolster Liberia’s ability to address pressing global challenges.

As Liberia gears up for its UNSC role, this capacity-building effort reflects a shared commitment to fostering diplomatic excellence and advancing global stability. The Ministry looks forward to further collaborations to ensure Liberia’s voice resonates strongly in 2026.

– on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Liberia.

Source: APO – Report:

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On August 20, commencing at 5:58 p.m. for approximately 20 minutes, Mr. IWAYA Takeshi, Minister for Foreign Affairs, held a meeting with Hon. Ms. Nancy Tembo, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Malawi, who is visiting Japan to participate in the in the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9). The overview of the meeting is as follows:

1. At the outset, Minister IWAYA referred that the cumulative number of Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers dispatched to Malawi has exceeded 1,800, which is the biggest number in the world, and expressed his hope that young people will continue to play an active role as a bridge between the two countries. In response, Minister Tembo expressed hir appreciation for the contribution extended by Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers as well as her intention to further develop the good bilateral relations that have been built up over many years.
2. Following that, Minister IWAYA announced the launch of a new comprehensive cooperation initiative covering the Nacala Corridor region, which connects Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique to the Indian Ocean, and stated that Japan will support the development of transportation infrastructure and industrial promotion in the surrounding areas. Minister IWAYA also stated that, in light of the serious food insecurity caused by recent floods and droughts, Japan has decided to provide food assistance to Malawi. In response, Minister Tembo expressed her gratitude for Japan’s support to date, while also touching on the One Village, One Product Movement. In addition, Minister Tembo expressed her desire to further strengthen bilateral relations, including strengthening economic ties through increased investment from Japan, while also expressing her hopes for cooperation in areas such as regional integration, infrastructure, minerals, and agriculture.
3. The two ministers also concurred to further strengthening cooperation in responding to various regional and international challenges, such as policies towards North Korea including the nuclear and missile issues as well as the abductions issue, and the United Nations Security Council reform.

– on behalf of Portal do Governo de Moçambique.

Source: APO – Report:

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“With the world’s youngest population, abundant natural resources, and a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, Africa is poised for progress,” he told the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) in Yokohama.

He said the meeting’s theme – Co-Create Innovative Solutions with Africa – was a reminder that these same strengths can help shape a more peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world in Africa and beyond.

Progress and reform

In this regard, he emphasised the need to accelerate progress to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through investment, reform and partnerships.

Mr. Guterres highlighted five areas for cooperation, starting with his longstanding push to reform institutions of global governance so that they reflect today’s realities.

“Africa must have a stronger voice in shaping the decisions that affect its future,” he said.

“That includes long-overdue reform of the Security Council, where incredibly, Africa has no permanent member, and other regions remain underrepresented.”

He also called for overhauling the international financial architecture, describing the current system as “unjust and unfair”, as well as bold action on debt relief.

Value chains and renewable energy

The Secretary-General next put the spotlight on investment in sustainable global value chains and regional integration.

“Africa’s path for prosperity must focus on adding value to its raw materials, creating decent jobs, and building resilience, taking profit of the African Continental Free Trade Area,” he said.

He also stressed the need to address “Africa’s energy paradox”, noting that although the continent has enormous potential to produce renewable energy, it receives just two per cent of global investment in the sector.  Meanwhile, some 600 million African lack access to electricity.

“Africa is also home to the critical minerals required to power renewable technologies,” he continued.  “But the countries hosting them must be the ones to benefit first and most, while adding value to local and global value chains.”

Invest in technology, youth and peace 

Turning next to technology, Mr. Guterres called for harnessing digital innovation, including artificial intelligence (AI), for development.

He said Japan’s technological leadership can help close the digital divide, “and ensure that technology helps African countries catch up, with adequate digital public infrastructure, rather than being left behind.”

As “young people are the builders of Africa’s future”, the Secretary-General’s fourth point underscored the need to invest in their skills and education, particularly in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths).

“Let us invest in women’s full participation across economies, societies and political systems,” he added.

Mr. Guterres concluded by acknowledging the link between peace and prosperity.

“Sustainable development requires sustainable peace,” he said.

“By silencing the guns as the African Union clearly points out. And by ending violence in all its forms and strengthening the social cohesion and stability that can attract investment and business to Africa.”

– on behalf of UN News.