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Emirates to operate next-gen A350 on the third daily service to Cape Town, its first deployment in Southern Africa

Source: APO

Emirates (www.Emirates.com) will continue rolling out its retrofitted Boeing 777 and new A350 aircraft to key destinations across Europe, North America, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Australia, bringing Premium Economy and its latest onboard products to more cities across its network.

The recently-announced third daily service on the Dubai-Cape Town route will now be served by an A350, bringing Emirates latest aircraft type to the market for the very first time. The deployment enhances travel options between South Africa and Dubai, with Emirates’ full suite of products and services available for customers to enjoy – from the iconic A380 and the fully-retrofitted Boeing 777 to the next-gen A350.

Commenting on the deployment, Emirates’ Regional Manager of Southern Africa, Afzal Parambil said, “With the deployment of the next-gen A350 on the third daily service between Dubai and Cape Town, South Africa becomes the only African nation on our network to be served by all three aircraft types on the Emirates fleet. This fleet mix provides the greatest flexibility for our customers to travel in and out of our three gateways, while still providing travellers with the world-renowned Emirates’ experience, on every flight.”

Emirates also announced additional A350 deployments on new daily services to Copenhagen and Phuket, offering customers greater connectivity alongside an elevated onboard experience, ahead of the anticipated surge in winter travel demand. The airline will deploy its Premium Economy retrofitted A380, Boeing 777 and A350 aircraft with the latest cabin interiors on more than 84 routes by 1 July, underscoring its focus on delivering a premium and consistent experience across its network.

Additional flights and capacity to Copenhagen, Phuket and Cape Town

From 1 June, a second daily service will be introduced between Dubai and Copenhagen; a third daily service between Dubai and Phuket and the third daily to/from Cape Town will come into effect from 1 July. All three services will be operated with the airline’s latest A350 aircraft, featuring its award-winning Premium Economy, in addition to the latest Business and Economy Class cabins.

From 1 June, Emirates’ flight EK153 will depart Dubai to Copenhagen at 14:50hrs, arriving at 19:45hrs. The return flight, EK154, will depart Copenhagen at 21:35hrs, arriving in Dubai at 5:55hrs the following day.** The new service is optimally timed to provide seamless connections from Copenhagen to popular destinations via Dubai, to East Asia including, Bangkok, Bali, Manila, Tokyo Haneda and Phuket as well as convenient links to Colombo and Male. In addition, the service introduces new connections to key African cities such as Nairobi and Entebbe. Passengers travelling from key global cities, such as Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney, Auckland, Delhi and Bangalore will also benefit from the additional frequency to the Danish capital, with convenient onward connection times through Dubai.

From 1 July, Emirates’ flight EK778 departing Dubai at 10:25 hrs, arriving in Cape Town at 18:05 hrs; the return flight, EK779, will depart Cape Town at 20:00 hrs and arrive in Dubai at 07:25 hrs the following morning. The third frequency offers travel options with optimised connections from/to London, Dublin, Bombay, Brussels, Australasia and key Asian markets, serving both leisure and corporate travel demand.

Emirates’ double daily Cape Town service has seen consistently high load factors over the past year, particularly during peak periods. Inbound demand from the GCC continues to grow, while outbound traffic to Europe and the US East Coast remains strong.

From 1 July, Emirates’ flight EK390 will depart Dubai to Phuket at 22:40hrs, arriving at 08:10hrs the following day. The return flight, EK391, will depart Phuket at 10:00hrs, arriving in Dubai at 13:05hrs. Travellers will benefit from additional travel options to the popular resort destination, which offers an early morning arrival ideal for those connecting from Europe including Manchester, Amsterdam, London, Paris and Frankfurt as well as Kuwait and Bahrain via Dubai. The new flight will also provide convenient onward connection times from Phuket to key gateways across Europe and the Middle East, including Madrid, Munich, Birmingham, Brussels, Dusseldorf, Hamburg, Edinburgh, Zurich and Amman.

The airline will also operate its A350 to Rome and Taipei from 1 May.

Planned Premium Economy route expansions:

Africa 

  • Addis Ababa: From 1 March*, the retrofitted 3-class Boeing 777-200LR will operate daily on EK723/724.
  • Cape Town: the third daily flight on the Dubai-Cape Town route, announced at the 2025 Dubai Airshow, will now operate with a next-gen Emirates A350 from 1 July 2026.

Europe & North America

  • Barcelona and Mexico City: Emirates will operate its EK187/188 service with a retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER aircraft from 1 February. EK255/256, the linked service between Barcelona and Mexico City, will operate with a Premium Economy retrofitted three class Boeing 777-200LR daily from 15 February* onwards.
  • Rome: The EK099/100 daily service will operate with A350 aircraft from 29 March.
  • Copenhagen: Addition of a second daily service from 1 June with an Emirates A350, as EK153/154.           

Asia

  • Cochin: From 29 January, two of the seven-weekly services (Thursday and Sunday) on EK530/531 between Dubai and Cochin will operate with a retrofitted Boeing 777-200LR.
  • Karachi: Starting 1 March*, Emirates’ retrofitted three-class Boeing 777-200LR will begin operating daily on EK606/607.
  • Taipei: Emirates will operate its retrofitted Boeing 777-200LR on the EK386/387 daily service from 15 March* until 30 April and, from 1 May onwards, those services will operate with the airline’s A350 aircraft.
  • Phuket: A third daily service between Dubai and Phuket will come into effect from 1 July on EK 390/391.

Australia

  • Brisbane: From 29 March, daily flights on EK EK430/431 will be operated by a retrofitted four-class Boeing 777-300ER, joining the A380 retrofitted service introduced last year.

Middle East

  • Basra: The Thursday service on EK947/948 will transition to a retrofitted four-class Boeing 777-300ER from 29 January.
  • Kuwait City: The EK859/860 daily service between Dubai and Kuwait City will operate with a retrofitted Boeing 777 from 1 February until 30 April and from 1 May onwards the service will operate with an Emirates A350. 
  • Tehran: Effective 29 March, the retrofitted B777 in a four-class configuration will operate daily flights on EK979/980.

Tickets can be booked on www.Emirates.com, the Emirates App, or via both online and offline travel agents as well as Emirates’ retail stores.

* Aircraft deployment may be advanced if released earlier from refurbishment.

** All times are local.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Emirates Group.

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Class of 2025 matric results to be published in newspapers next week

Source: Government of South Africa

Class of 2025 matric results to be published in newspapers next week

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has announced that the results of the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations will be published in accredited newspapers next Tuesday, 13 January 2026. 

On Wednesday, the DBE announced that the results will be presented in the same anonymised format as in recent years, which includes only examination numbers and results – no names, surnames, or ID numbers will be included.

This comes in light of the Information Regulator’s decision to seek permission to appeal a December ruling by a full bench of the Pretoria High Court, which determined that matric results could be published on public platforms using candidates’ examination numbers, as had been done since 2022. 

In 2024, the regulator issued an enforcement notice that prohibited the department from publishing the matric results in newspapers. 

Instead, it stated that the results should be shared in ways that comply with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), such as allowing students to access their results through their schools or via a secure SMS service from the DBE.

READ | Department welcomes High Court judgement on the publishing NSC results 

However, the DBE stated that, in accordance with its commitment to the rule of law, it is legally required to publish the results in a pseudonymised format. 

The department said this requirement is based on a court order issued on 18 January 2022, which specifically mandates this approach.

“This order remains in force,” the statement read. 

According to the department, the publication of NSC results in accredited newspapers has long been an important and accessible method for learners and parents to obtain results timeously. 

“We will continue to follow the established, court-endorsed practice of publishing the results without identifying learners in a manner that balances accessibility with the protection of personal information.”

Meanwhile, the department further confirmed that it will oppose the application for leave to appeal by the Information Regulator. 

“This opposition is pursued in the best interests of learners, their families, and the education sector. The department remains firmly of the view that the application has no reasonable prospects of success, given the clarity already provided by the courts.

“At the same time, the department emphasises that it holds the highest respect for the Office of the Information Regulator and its constitutional mandate.” 

The department stated that its opposition to the application for leave to appeal should not be interpreted as a “lack of respect” for the Information Regulator. 

“On the contrary, the department values the regulator’s role and looks forward to continued and constructive engagement.” 

The DBE said it remains committed to legal compliance, learner protection, transparency, and accessibility, while ensuring that the rights and dignity of every learner are respected.

The Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube and Deputy Minister Dr Reginah Mhaule are set to announce the results of the Matric Class of 2025 on Monday, 12 January 2026. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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Nestlé recalls NAN baby formula batch due to toxin risk

Source: Government of South Africa

Nestlé recalls NAN baby formula batch due to toxin risk

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has issued a recall for NAN Special Pro HA Infant Formula, which is designed for the dietary management of infants at risk of developing a cow’s milk protein allergy.

The product affected is NAN Special Pro HA in the 800g package for children aged zero to 12 months, with the batch number 51660742F3, produced in June 2025.

According to the NCC, this product has been distributed through all major retailers and distributors across South Africa and has been exported to Namibia and Eswatini.

In the meantime, the commission announced that the product recall is due to the potential presence of Cereulide, a toxin produced by Bacillus cereus, which raises food safety concerns.

“The NAN infant formula has a lifespan of approximately 18 months,” the NCC explained.

According to media reports, Nestlé has announced a recall of certain batches of its infant nutrition products, including SMA, BEBA, and NAN formulas, primarily in Europe, due to potential contamination with a toxin that may lead to nausea and vomiting. 

The company, known for a wide range of products from KitKat to Nescafé, stated that no illnesses have been reported in connection with the recalled items.

The recall was initiated following a quality concern related to an ingredient sourced from a major supplier.

A spokesperson for Nestlé mentioned that the company has begun testing all arachidonic acid oil and associated oil mixtures used in the production of the affected infant nutrition products.

The NCC has advised consumers who have the affected NAN Special Pro HA Infant Formula 800g to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

“The NCC will continue to monitor the matter and engage with the supplier to ensure ongoing compliance with the food safety requirements.” – SAnews.gov.za

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Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) Chairman Masoud M. Suleman to Speak at Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) 2026

Source: APO


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Masoud M. Suleman, Chairman of Libya’s state-owned National Oil Corporation (NOC), will participate as a speaker at the Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) 2026, scheduled for January 24-26, 2026, in Tripoli. The summit will bring together national and international energy stakeholders, including major operators such as bp, Eni, Shell, Chevron and TotalEnergies, to discuss strategies for Libya’s oil and gas sector, focusing on production growth, infrastructure investment and energy transition initiatives.

Under Chairman Suleman’s leadership, the NOC has embarked on a strategic revitalization of Libya’s oil sector. As of early January 2026, Libya’s production has stabilized at 1.38-1.4 million barrels per day (bpd), with a target of 1.6 million bpd by the end of 2026 (https://apo-opa.co/4svIncJ). Looking ahead, the NOC aims to achieve 2 million bpd within three to five years, contingent on stable funding and security. In 2025, the country’s oil revenues reached $21.26 billion, an increase from $18.61 billion in 2024, demonstrating resilience amid fluctuating global prices.

A central focus for 2026 is the completion of the first competitive licensing round in 18 years, including 22 blocks – 11 onshore and 11 offshore. Offshore exploration remains a strategic priority for the NOC, with bp and Eni, in partnership with the Libyan Investment Authority, preparing to drill an exploratory deepwater well in the Sirte Basin (https://apo-opa.co/4q9JKw5). These initiatives are complemented by infrastructure investment plans, with the NOC estimating $3-4 billion in 2026 will be needed to modernize aging pipelines, restore lost capacity and enhance operational efficiency across its network.

Domestic refining and petrochemicals are also key pillars of the NOC’s agenda. Zallaf Libya, an NOC subsidiary, is advancing construction of a 30,000-bpd refinery in the southern town of Ubari to meet local fuel demand and reduce imports. Meanwhile, the Ras Lanuf ethylene plant (https://apo-opa.co/4sAHQGM) and a second methanol plant at Sirte Oil Company have recently resumed operations, reinforcing Libya’s refining and downstream capacity.

Environmental and gas sector strategies are integral to sustainable growth. For 2026, the NOC is targeting a reduction in gas flaring of 120 million cubic feet per day, with previously-flared gas directed toward stabilizing the national power grid and supporting domestic energy needs. Structural reforms, introduced following Suleman’s formal appointment as Chairman in October 2025, focus on improving governance, transparency and audit practices across all subsidiaries, including Akakus Oil Operations, now producing 325,000 bpd, and Waha Oil Company, peaking at 371,000 bpd.

“We are honored to welcome Chairman Masoud M. Suleman as a keynote speaker at LEES 2026,” states James Chester, CEO, Energy Capital & Power. “His participation underscores Libya’s commitment to transparency, sector reform and investment-ready projects, offering attendees unique insights into the country’s energy growth and strategic opportunities.”

At LEES 2026, Chairman Suleman will be positioned to engage with international operators to discuss mature and marginal field strategies, technical partnerships and investment opportunities, reinforcing Libya’s position as a stable and attractive destination for global energy investment.

Join industry leaders at the Libya Energy & Economic Summit 2026 in Tripoli and explore investment opportunities in one of North Africa’s most dynamic energy markets. LEES 2026 offers a premier platform for partnerships, innovation and sector growth. Visit www.LibyaSummit.com to secure your participation. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

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

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Concern over public safety following North West lightning incident

Source: Government of South Africa

Concern over public safety following North West lightning incident

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has expressed serious public safety concerns after 40 people were reported to have been hit by lightning around Majaneng, a rural village in the Hammanskraal area, near Pretoria, earlier this month.

The lightning observation map for 3 January 2026 (12 pm to 10 pm) showed intense thunderstorm activity over the northern parts of Gauteng, with a high concentration of cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning strikes in and around the highlighted region of interest. 

“This period coincides with the timeframe during which fatalities and multiple hospitalisations were reported at the troupe event. These incidents serve as a critical reminder that lightning poses a real and significant danger, particularly in the eastern half of South Africa, which is one of the most lightning-prone countries in the world” SAWS said on Wednesday.

READ | Condolences for victims of North West lightning bolt incident 

The weather service report indicates that activity peaked between 5pm and 6pm, with 713 strikes (39%). 

“The events were mostly negative cloud-to-ground strokes (1764 negative vs 66 positive), with a mean amplitude of −13.73 kA, though some strong positive strokes reached 54.9 kA, indicating mature storm stages and surface hazard. 

“The negative strokes were much stronger, with maximum of -179.7 kA recorded, indicating an exceptionally powerful lightning strike during the period,” the weather service said.

Lightning occurred at a mean distance of 14.5 km, but the closest strike was 1.4 km, showing direct risk to the settlement.

“The highest lightning densities occur over the north-eastern interior, particularly Mpumalanga, Limpopo and parts of northern KwaZulu-Natal, where values locally exceed 15 to 20 flashes per square kilometre. These regions frequently experience intense summer thunderstorms, driven by strong surface heating, deep atmospheric instability and an influx of warm, moist air from the Indian Ocean,” it said.

Much of the central interior, including Gauteng, the Free State and North West, show moderate lightning activity of approximately five to 10 flashes per square kilometre. 

This reflects the Highveld’s climatology, where afternoon and evening convective storms are common during the summer rainfall season.

Lightning is strongly associated with deep convective clouds, which develop most readily in warm, moist and unstable environments, conditions that are far less common in the western parts of the country.

The public is urged to take lightning warnings seriously. 

“If thunder is heard, it means lightning is close enough to pose a danger. Outdoor activities should be stopped immediately, and people should seek shelter in fully enclosed buildings or inside vehicles with closed windows. 

“People should avoid open fields, hilltops, trees, metal fences, poles, water bodies, and temporary structures. If no shelter is available, individuals should spread out, crouch low with feet together, minimise contact with the ground, and avoid lying flat,” SAWS said.

After a thunderstorm, activities should only resume at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder. 

The SAWS said it is important to note that lightning strike victims do not carry an electrical charge, and it is safe to assist them. 

Emergency services should be contacted immediately, and CPR should be administered if trained to do so.

Lightning-related injuries and fatalities are largely preventable through awareness, preparedness, and timely action.

The South African Weather Service will continue to closely monitor evolving weather and climate conditions and will provide weekly updates and early warnings where necessary to support public safety and preparedness. –SAnews.gov.za
 

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Justice Minister to meet with NPA, SIU leadership

Source: Government of South Africa

Justice Minister to meet with NPA, SIU leadership

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, is expected to meet with the leaders of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).

This after current SIU Head, Advocate Andy Mothibi, was appointed as the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) at the NPA.

“The Minister will, in the days to come, convene a meeting with the leadership and relevant teams within the National Prosecuting Authority and the Special Investigating Unit to ensure a smooth transition, and to implement the decision of the President [to appoint Mothibi],” a statement from the department noted.

Mothibi’s appointment was announced this week, with effect from February, at the retirement of current head, Advocate Shamila Batohi.

“Minister [Kubayi] also welcomes the appointment of Mr Leonard Lekgetho as the Acting Head of the Special Investigating Unit.

“The Minister notes the confidence expressed by the President in both Advocate Mothibi and Mr Lekgetho, and wishes them well in the execution of their constitutional and statutory responsibilities, which are central to the strengthening of the rule of law and the effective functioning of the criminal justice system,” the department said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

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Travellers to prioritise road safety as they return home

Source: Government of South Africa

Travellers to prioritise road safety as they return home

As the holiday season comes to an end, the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape is urging all motorists and travellers returning home to prioritise road safety and responsible driving.

SAPS expects a significant increase in traffic volumes on major routes, as families and holidaymakers make their way back.

Road users are advised to plan their trips carefully, allow sufficient time for travel and ensure their vehicles are in good condition before embarking on their long journeys.

“SAPS hereby reminds drivers to obey traffic laws at all times, adhere to speed limits, and avoid reckless and negligent driving behaviour, such as overtaking on dangerous parts of the road and curves.” 

According to police, fatigue remains a major contributing factor to road accidents. 

“Drivers are encouraged to take regular rest breaks and to share driving responsibilities where possible.” 

SAPS reiterated that driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs will not be tolerated. 

“Law enforcement officers will maintain an increased presence on the roads through ongoing high-visibility operations, including roadblocks and vehicle checks, to ensure compliance and promote safer roads,” the statement read. 

Pedestrians are also urged to exercise caution when crossing roads, particularly in high traffic areas and to wear visible clothing when walking at night. 

Passengers are also encouraged to always wear seatbelts and to report unsafe driving to the authorities.

“The SAPS calls on all road users to work together in ensuring that everyone reaches their destinations safely. Responsible behaviour on the roads can save lives.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Government welcomes court order on driving license card machine tender

Source: Government of South Africa

Government welcomes court order on driving license card machine tender

The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, and Deputy Minister, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, have welcomed the High Court’s declaratory order that sets aside the appointment of IDEMIA as a preferred bidder for the driving license card machines tender.

On Tuesday, the Gauteng North High Court declared that the tender was irregular, invalid, unlawful and unenforceable. 
Consequently, the tender has been set aside by the court. The Department of Transport has been ordered to re-advertise the tender within 30 days.

“Pending the appointment of a successful service provider under the re- advertised tender, the department has also been allowed by the court to outsource the services of printing and issuing of driving license (cards) to the Department of Home Affairs,” the department said on Wednesday.

The court’s declaratory order is based on the department’s court application, following the findings of the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) that pointed out irregularities in the tender process.

Reacting to the court’s declaratory order, the Minister said that the court outcome is a vindication of the department’s commitment to the transparency and legitimacy of tender processes with the decision to approach the court for guidance on the matter as a necessary step for effective regulation.

Meanwhile, on 9 December 2025, the Driving Licence Card Account (DLCA) agency cleared the backlog of driving license cards that were outstanding for printing, following the breakdown of the printing machine from February to May 2025.

As a result, from 8 May to 8 December 2025, a total of 2 239 456 driving license cards were printed by the DLCA.

The State Security Agency has approved the prototype driving licence card designed by the Government Printing Works (GPW).

“The establishment of the network connection between the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and GPW was successfully tested. This will allow the transfer of data/files required by GPW to print the driving license cards.

“A Cabinet process will soon be undertaken to sought Cabinet approval of the prototype card design,” the department said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Adv Mothibi a ‘person of integrity’

Source: Government of South Africa

Adv Mothibi a ‘person of integrity’

Current Head of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Advocate Shamila Batohi, has expressed confidence in Advocate Andy Mothibi’s ability to “take the NPA to greater heights”.

Mothibi is expected to take over the reins at the prosecutorial body from next month when Batohi retires from the position.

“Advocate Mothibi is a person of integrity, who comes with a great track record and who knows what it means to fight for the rule of law in the country. 

“As the head of the SIU, and as a key stakeholder and partner in the law enforcement environment, he is no stranger to the work of the NPA and the criminal justice system. I have every confidence that Adv Mothibi will take the NPA to greater heights,” Batohi said.

She described the fight for justice as an “ongoing battle”. 

“There is much to be done, and I have no doubt that with Adv Mothibi at the helm, the staff of the NPA remain resolute in their dedication to his leadership in advancing justice and the rule of law, and that together, they will strengthen the role of the NPA at the heart of our constitutional democracy in the service of the people of South Africa,” Batohi said.

The prosecutorial body assured that a handover report has been compiled to “ensure a smooth transition”.

“[The] report… will be shared with the President, the Minister, the Chairperson of the Justice Portfolio Committee and Advocate Mothibi.

“This report not only documents progress, including on a number of strategic initiatives, but also identifies key risks, opportunities and unfinished work in the process of continued rebuilding and reform. We are also scheduling a programme of briefings to Advocate Mothibi before he assumes duty on 1 February,” the NPA said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Sonatrach-Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) Research and Development (R&D) Partnership Signals Africa’s Energy Future is Innovation-Led

Source: APO


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Algeria’s state-owned oil company Sonatrach and the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under the auspices of the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO), formalizing plans for a strategic partnership focused on research, development and innovation (R&D) in the oil and gas sector. Signed in Brazzaville, the Republic of Congo – the headquarters of APPO – and in the presence of APPO’s recently appointed Secretary General Farid Ghezali, the MoU establishes a framework for assessing joint opportunities, sharing expertise and creating structured working mechanisms to support the development of hydrocarbon resources for energy security and sustainable development across Africa.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) welcomes the agreement and expresses its full support for Sonatrach and GNPC in advancing African-led R&D collaboration. The agreement signifies APPO as not only an instrumental part in facilitating the partnership but a central force in bringing all parties together to ratify this important deal. Under the leadership of Ghezali, APPO continues to showcase its commitment to unifying nations – as well as the broader industry – to reach decisive agreements such as this one. The partnership also reflects a growing recognition among national oil companies (NOC) that innovation, technology and knowledge-sharing are essential to unlocking value, reducing costs and ensuring Africa remains competitive in a rapidly evolving global energy market. The AEC believes that this collaboration is expected to move the entire industry into its next phase of development.

The scope of cooperation outlined in the MoU is both comprehensive and forward-looking. It includes advanced onshore and offshore seismic technologies such as high-definition processing and interpretation, artificial intelligence-enabled subsurface analysis, 4D seismic and real-time reservoir modeling. The agreement also covers digital wells and digital oilfields, enhanced and improved oil recovery, stratigraphic exploration objectives, integrity and corrosion management and oil and gas valorization – capabilities that directly improve recovery rates, extend the life of producing assets and maximize returns from existing infrastructure. The partnership also integrates energy transition and environmental priorities alongside core upstream development. Areas of cooperation include carbon footprint reduction, low-carbon industrial solutions, hydrogen and green technologies, as well as water and waste treatment and air pollution mitigation. This reflects a pragmatic African approach: developing hydrocarbons responsibly while embedding sustainability and emissions management into project design and operations from the outset.

The agreement comes at a critical time for both markets. For Ghana, the MoU signals a commitment to leveraging innovation to revitalize oil production as the nation looks to revive oilfields, diversify the industry through gas and support broader regional energy growth. With 17 oil and gas projects scheduled for development by 2027, Ghana is working to expand exploration, ramp up production and deepen private sector participation. Recent milestones point to a strong resurgence across the market. Just this month, Kosmos Energy announced that it successfully drilled and completed the J-74 well – part of the larger 2025-2026 Jubilee field development campaign. In partnership with the GNPC and Tullow, the company plans to drill 20 wells at Jubilee under a $2 billion upstream expansion plan, five of which are planned for 2026. Alongside oil Ghana is advancing gas developments under efforts to monetize its over 2.1 trillion cubic feet of available resources. Projects such as a planned second processing plant – with a capacity of 150 million standard cubic feet per day – are underway and will complement operational facilities such as the Atuabo Plant.

As one of Africa’s biggest oil and gas producers, Algeria is well-positioned to support Ghana’s hydrocarbon goals. The country is advancing its own ambitious hydrocarbon strategy, anchored by a five-year plan endorsed by Sonatrach that will mobilize up to $60 billion in investment. The program prioritizes sustained exploration and production to offset natural decline, alongside the modernization and expansion of downstream infrastructure to strengthen value addition, boost export capacity and enhance long-term energy security. Through this strategy, Algeria is reinforcing its role as a continental energy leader while generating technical expertise and operational know-how that can be leveraged through partnerships with peers such as GNPC. By prioritizing R&D, embracing technology and aligning hydrocarbons development with sustainability objectives, Sonatrach and GNPC are setting a strong precedent. The AEC commends both companies and APPO for advancing an African-led model that supports energy security, economic growth and sustainable development across the continent.

“APPO continues to showcase a commitment to advancing Africa’s hydrocarbon development. This MoU shows that African NOCs are investing in innovation to secure the continent’s energy future. Research and technology are critical to producing oil and gas more efficiently and sustainably, while supporting the broader energy transition. Africa needs oil and gas to develop, and partnerships like this ensure those resources deliver long-term value for our people,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.