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Power system ‘stable’ as festive season demand approaches

Source: Government of South Africa

Power system ‘stable’ as festive season demand approaches

Eskom has assured that it will keep the lights on this festive season and meet demand.

In a statement, the power utility said the national power system remains stable and consistently meets “demand as Eskom’s generation performance continues to improve”.

“The success of the Generation Recovery Plan, combined with the intensified planned maintenance implemented last year, has strengthened the fleet and enhanced operational resilience.

“These achievements position Eskom to reliably meet peak festive season demand, support economic activity and reinforce energy security for South Africa,” Eskom explained.

The Energy Availability Factor (EAF) stands at some 66.12% – an improvement of 8.43% at the same time last year when the EAF stood at 57.69%.

“Year-to-date, EAF has increased to 63.85%, with the fleet achieving or exceeding the 70% benchmark on 39 occasions. These results demonstrate both recovery and sustained improvement in generation performance, reinforcing energy security and grid stability.

“The improvement in EAF is largely attributable to a continued reduction in unplanned outages, alongside a moderate decline in planned maintenance levels,” the power utility said.

Eskom has gone more than 217 days without implementing load shedding, with only 26 hours of load shedding recorded earlier this financial year.

“To maintain a stable electricity supply, Eskom will bring 4 670MW of generation capacity online ahead of the evening peak [today].

“Eskom published the Summer Outlook on 5 September 2025, covering the period 1 September 2025 to 31 March 2026, which projects no load shedding due to sustained improvements in plant performance from the Generation Recovery Plan,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Africa-wide campaign celebrates the joy of going ‘home-home’ – with KFC

Source: APO

What can you get away with at home, that you could never dream of doing when you get back “home-home”, over the festive season?

An insightful pan-African KFC campaign celebrates exactly this fascinating part of life across the continent – the parallel lives that young people live at “home” in the city, and “home-home”, where they come from.

In Kenya, visiting the rural areas is called “going to Shagz,” and there are a bunch of other vernac expressions for it. The culture clash of going home is a hilarious part of our shared African culture, come Christmas time.

The KFC Home-Home campaign shows that while there are certain parts of ourselves that we might not want to bring “home-home”, the one thing that everyone agrees on is the finger-lickin’ good taste of KFC.

“In the city, anything flies; you can rock your tattoos, wear anything, and speak any way you want,” says Mukundi Munzhelele, KFC Marketing Director, EW&I and Marketing Excellence. “But when you’re home-home, that doesn’t fly. You’re expected to go back to your default settings. Luckily, the good thing about KFC is that it always flies – whether you’re at home or home-home.”

The Home-Home campaign launched across several African markets and runs throughout the festive season. It features two social-media components, several branded films, out-of-home, and the #KFCHomeDos&Donts rollout on radio and social.

The latter rollout has grabbed the imagination of listeners and users right across Africa, as they share what they got up to at home that would never fly at home-home — via voice notes, comments or replies. Participants stand to win a range of KFC vouchers and prizes.

The campaign also launched trends on socials, as influencers embraced the idea, with travel vlogs, and “home vs home-home” content becoming the flavour of the moment. User-generated clips could see kids pranking their parents, by calling them by their first names, or leaving the TV on when they went to bed!

Leaving unwashed dishes overnight? Wearing shoes indoors? Fancy nails? Glam outfits? Speaking your mind a little too freely? All these big-city ways must be put on the back burner when young Africans return home.

Some have even noted the unwritten rules that apply when enjoying a bucket of KFC with the family. Dad has dibs on the biggest piece of chicken, while it takes brave diplomacy to secure the last piece in the package. Another eternal truth is that the one who goes to pick up the KFC order is never the one who pays for it!

Whether the festive bucket is brought home, or all the way home-home, the joy of sharing KFC with friends and family remains undiminished.

The KFC Home-Home campaign was devised by KFC along with lead agency Ogilvy.

“The campaign began with the cultural insight that many urbanised African people live parallel lives, between our homes in the city and our other homes in the communities of our extended families,” says Ogilvy South Africa Executive Creative Director Snooze Kambuwa. “We tried to celebrate that, complete with all the good-natured subterfuge and code-switching that goes with it. But we also made the point that KFC flies wherever you are – at home, or home-home.”

The KFC Home-Home campaign rolled out across Ghana, Tanzania, Senegal, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Gabon and Mauritius, and runs into early January.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of KFC Africa.

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Dubai Entertainment Amusement & Leisure Exhibition (DEAL) 2026 to Accelerate Africa’s Next Wave of Theme Parks, Family Entertainment Centre (FECs) and Location-Based Entertainment

Source: APO

African family entertainment centre (FEC) operators, mall owners, mixed-use developers, hospitality groups, leisure investors and tourism agencies are invited to source the next generation of attractions, rides, VR/AR experiences and turnkey indoor concepts at DEAL 2026 – the Dubai Entertainment Amusement & Leisure Exhibition (www.DealMiddleEastShow.com), taking place 10–12 February 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre. Now in its 32nd year, DEAL is the Middle East and Africa’s longest-running B2B platform for the amusement and attractions industry. Visitors from Africa can register here – https://apo-opa.co/3MM18bH.

“As organisers, our brief has always been simple: DEAL must be a commercial engine, not a ceremonial expo,” said Abdulrahman Falaknaz, President, International Expo-Consults (IEC). “Buyers from Africa are no longer just benchmarking global concepts; they are sourcing partners, signing agreements and budgeting for delivery. That momentum is exactly why we expect DEAL 2026 to be our most impactful edition yet—especially for African operators looking to scale quickly, safely and sustainably.”

Why this matters for Africa, now?

Africa’s youth base is a live demand engine: more than 60% of Africans are under 25, a cohort that expects premium, safe and tech-enabled entertainment close to home. As per Cognitive Market Research, the Middle East & Africa FEC market is projected to grow at 11.5% CAGR through 2031, implying regional spend already pushing beyond USD700 million in 2025.

DEAL 2026 will showcase the full commercial spectrum of today’s location-based entertainment economy: themed rides and large-format attractions; turnkey family entertainment centres; waterparks and water play solutions; VR/AR and immersive gaming arenas; esport and arcade systems; participatory play equipment; redemption and coin-operated machines; high-tech show effects; admissions, ticketing and operations tech; themed retail, décor and IP/licensing; and full concept-to-delivery support from masterplanners, fabricators and fit-out specialists. This show profile is designed for decision-makers who are building or upgrading theme parks, malls, mixed-use leisure districts, hotels and resorts, and municipal or tourism-led attractions, and it lets them source everything under one roof — from content and hardware to safety compliance and revenue models.

African trade visitors will be able to evaluate proven revenue models—from pay-to-play and memberships to esports leagues and subscription-based edutainment—designed for markets with a high share of Gen Z and young families; source suppliers whose attractions meet global safety and maintenance standards (critical for lenders, insurers and regulators); benchmark pricing, throughput and ROI with operators already active in the Gulf’s integrated entertainment districts; and build partnerships with IP owners, masterplanners and tech companies that can localise content for African audiences.

Falaknaz added: “With manufacturers, IP owners, waterpark specialists, VR/AR content studios, esports infrastructure providers and turnkey FEC developers under one roof, DEAL compresses months of sourcing into days. Our goal is to help African stakeholders move from concept to commercially bankable projects—backed by the right standards, operating know-how and partners.”

DEAL 2026 runs 10–12 February 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre. Exhibitor and visitor information for African delegations is available at www.DealMiddleEastShow.com. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Dubai Entertainment Amusement & Leisure Exhibition (DEAL 2026).

For booth bookings and hosted-buyer enquiries, contact:
Frida
frida@iecdubai.com

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Heirs Energies Agrees $750m Afreximbank Financing to Drive Long-Term Growth

Source: APO

Heirs Energies Limited (https://HeirsEnergies.com/), Nigeria’s leading indigenous integrated energy company, has executed a USD 750 million financing with the African Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank).

The transaction was concluded at a signing ceremony in Abuja on Saturday 20th December 2025, attended by Mr. Tony O. Elumelu, CFR, Chairman of Heirs Energies, and Dr. George Elombi, President and Chairman of Afreximbank.

The transaction represents one of the largest financings secured by an indigenous African energy company and demonstrates lender confidence in Heirs Energies’ operating performance, governance standards, proprietary brownfield excellence capability, and long-term growth trajectory.

Since assuming operatorship of OML 17, Heirs Energies has delivered a disciplined transformation programme, focused on restoring production, strengthening asset integrity, and improving operational efficiency. Through targeted brownfield interventions and infrastructure optimisation, the Company has successfully transitioned from acquisition-led financing to a capital structure aligned with the long-term development profile of its reserves.

Oil and gas production has doubled, from an acquisition production level of 25,000 barrels of oil per day (bopd) and 50 million standard cubic feet of gas per day (mmscf/d). Today, OML-17 produces over 50,000 bopd and 120 mmscf/d. All the gas production goes into the Nigerian domestic gas market and has been catalytic for power generation in Nigeria. Community relations have been transformed and the highest standards of health and safety implemented.

The Afreximbank facility will accelerate field development, optimise production, and allow Heirs Energies to pursue value-accretive growth opportunities, while maintaining disciplined capital management.

Speaking at the signing, Mr. Tony O. Elumelu, CFR, Chairman of Heirs Energies, said:

“This transaction is a powerful affirmation of what African enterprise can achieve when backed by disciplined execution and long-term African capital. It reflects the successful journey Heirs Energies has taken – from turnaround to growth – and reinforces our belief in African capital working for African businesses. This is Africa financing Africa’s future.”

Dr. George Elombi, President and Chairman of Afreximbank, stated:

“Afreximbank is proud to support Heirs Energies at this pivotal stage of its growth. This financing reflects our confidence in the Company’s leadership, governance, and asset base, and aligns with our mandate to support African champions that are driving sustainable economic transformation across the continent.”

The transaction further reinforces Afreximbank’s role in enabling indigenous operators with the scale and capability to deliver sustainable energy development, energy security, and long-term economic value across Africa.

With this milestone achieved, Heirs Energies is firmly positioned to advance into its next phase of growth, focused on operational excellence, responsible resource development, and enduring value creation for stakeholders.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Heirs Energies.

About Heirs Energies:
Heirs Energies Limited is Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company, committed to meeting Africa’s unique energy needs, while aligning with global sustainability goals. Having a strong focus on innovation, environmental responsibility, and community development, Heirs Energies leads in the evolving energy landscape and contribute to a more prosperous Africa.

About Afreximbank:
The African Export-Import Bank is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. The Bank plays a critical role in supporting Africa’s industrialisation, trade expansion, and economic transformation.

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Qatar, US Officials Hold High-Level Talks on Strategic Partnership

Source: Government of Qatar

Washington, December 18, 2025

HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, held a series of meetings with senior US officials on the sidelines of the seventh strategic dialogue between the two countries in Washington.

HE Al Khulaifi met separately with HE Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Paul Kapur; HE Presidential Envoy and Senior Advisor for Africa at the Department of State, Massad Boulos; HE Acting Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Michael Kozak, HE Near Eastern Affairs Senior Officer, Robert Palladino; and HE CEO of the US International Development Finance Corporation, Ben Black.

Discussions focused on the close bilateral relationship, ways to enhance cooperation across various sectors, and shared perspectives on regional and international issues.

The US side highlighted the importance of continued coordination and consultation with Qatar, strengthening cooperation mechanisms, and further developing bilateral relations, while recognizing Qatar’s role as an effective mediator and trusted partner in resolving regional and international conflicts.

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Egypt: President El-Sisi Meets Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq

Source: APO – Report:

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Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq, Mr. Masrour Barzani. The meeting was also attended by Chief of the General Intelligence Service, Major General Hassan Rashad; Minister of Interior in the Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq, Mr. Rebwar Ahmed; and Head of the Kurdistan Region Intelligence Service, Mr. Mohsen Kamal.

Spokesman for the Presidency Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy said President El-Sisi underscored Egypt’s full and unwavering support for Iraq, its unity and territorial integrity, and for its efforts to confront the numerous challenges facing the region, particularly terrorism.

The President commended the level of ongoing cooperation between the Egyptian and Iraqi security agencies, lauding the efforts of Iraq and the authorities of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq to foster stability and peace in the region.

For his part, Mr. Barzani expressed the Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq’s appreciation for Egypt and President El-Sisi’s role in support of Iraq and in restoring peace and stability in the region. He emphasized that the Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq looks forward to further strengthening its cooperative relations with Egyptian institutions.

The meeting also addressed economic cooperation between Egypt and Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region. President El-Sisi affirmed Egypt’s keenness on deepening all aspects of the economic cooperation between the two sides, highlighting the significant capabilities of Egyptian companies, particularly in the fields of energy and infrastructure as well as the extensive expertise they possess in Egypt and abroad. The President invited the Kurdistan Regional Government to benefit from these companies’ capabilities in the implementation of projects with high quality and competitive cost.

Mr. Barzani welcomed the role of Egyptian companies in Iraq, stressing that during his visit he looks forward to working with the relevant Egyptian authorities to explore ways to forge closer cooperation and benefit from Egyptian expertise in a number of priority sectors for the Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq.

During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on a multitude of regional issues of mutual interest. President El-Sisi outlined Egypt’s vision for restoring security and stability in the region, and listened to the assessment of the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq in this regard.

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

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Table Mountain ready to welcome visitors this festive season

Source: Government of South Africa

Table Mountain ready to welcome visitors this festive season

The South African National Parks (SANParks) says it is fully prepared to welcome increased visitor numbers to Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) this festive season. 

Visitors can expect an enjoyable visit at TMNP’s iconic sites, strong safety measures, and enhanced firefighting and environmental protection capacity.

“Visitors can look forward to fantastic scenery and unmatched views in the richly biodiverse TMNP with highlights including visiting the African penguins at Boulders penguin colony, 360-degree views from the Cape Point lighthouse or Signal Hill, standing on the table at the top of Table Mountain after a ride up the cableway or a hike up Platteklip Gorge, and picnicking at Silvermine Dam or Oudekraal beach. 

“A total of 850 kilometres of hiking, horse riding and mountain biking trails await the adventurer to explore,” SANParks said in a statement. 

From April to October 2025, TMNP recorded 1 708 289 entries across its access points — an almost 20% increase compared to the same period in 2024. 

With expected increases in flight and cruise ship arrivals, this upward trend is set to continue into December and January.

“TMNP now has 157 rangers deployed across the park, working closely with the 40-member Sea-Air-Mountain (SEAM) special operations unit. This unit was bolstered earlier this year with 24 additional elite rangers and the recent addition of six new operational vehicles,” SANParks said.

Drone technology has also been introduced to support safety patrols and firefighting operations.

“The park’s specialist teams continue to play a key role in visitor protection and environmental crime prevention, achieving significant successes in reducing poaching, theft and other illegal activities. 

“The TMNP canine unit will receive further support through contracted, trained dogs and handlers during the festive period, while the unit undergoes a review to strengthen its long-term operations,” SANParks said.

To bolster the range of different measures in place, a Senior Manager responsible for visitor safety and resource protection will assume duties before mid-December to oversee safety coordination and guide volunteer involvement. 

Volunteers already play an important role in joint safety campaigns and operations to address groups conducting illegal activities in the park, such as overnighting and making fires outside of designated areas.

SANParks urged all visitors to prepare adequately. These are some of the steps they can take to prepare:

  • Plan routes in advance and hike in groups.
  • Share your itinerary and expected return time.
  • Carry enough water and weather-appropriate clothing.
  • Use tracking apps where possible.
  • Ensure your phone is fully charged and carry a power bank.

Emergency contacts:

  • TMNP Emergency Number: 086 110 6417
  • Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR): 021 937 0300
  • National Emergency Number: 112 (from a cellphone)

–  SAnews.gov.za

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RTMC urges motorists to ensure full road traffic compliance

Source: Government of South Africa

RTMC urges motorists to ensure full road traffic compliance

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has encouraged vehicle owners to use their end of year bonuses and payouts from savings clubs or stokvels to fix their vehicles and renew vehicle licences ahead of festive season travel.

“With the festive season fast approaching many people are finalising their travel plans. It’s important to ensure your vehicle is in good condition before hitting the road,” the RTMC said.

This includes fixing any defects that may have been overlooked during the year, such as replacing unroadworthy tyres and cracked windscreens, fixing brakes, fixing lights and replacing wipers.

“These are safety critical components especially for people who will be travelling during the rainy and wet conditions this summer. During the festive period last year, vehicle factors contributed 6.9% of total fatal crashes in the country, 65.7% of these was due to tyre bursts and 11.4% due to faulty brakes. Headlights that were not switched on (resulting in poor visibility of approaching vehicles) had a 9.5% contribution,” RTMC said.

Vehicle owners are further reminded to ensure validity of their vehicle licences and renew before embarking on their journeys.

RTMC records indicate that a total of 1 060 382 vehicle licences will be  expiring at the end of November. 

Most of these vehicles are in Gauteng, where a total of 416 828 will be due for renewal at the end of the month, followed by the Western Cape with 197 797 vehicle licences due for renewal and KwaZulu Natal with 143 293 renewals due.

Vehicle licence renewals due in other province are as follows: Mpumalanga 66 446, Eastern Cape 63 263, Limpopo 58 551, Free State 47 572, North West 44 871, and Northern Cape 21 763.

“Driving with an expired disc in South Africa incurs penalties that include late renewal fines of 10% of the annual fee for every month the disc is lapsed, potential fines of up to R1 000 if caught by law enforcement, and possible vehicle impoundment,” RTMC said. –SAnews.gov.za

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Joint Statement on the Seventh Qatar -United States Strategic Dialogue: An Enduring Strategic Partnership

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | DECEMBER 20, 2025

The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the State of Qatarand the United States of America.

Begin Text.

Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Secretary of State Marco Rubio and convened the seventh Qatar – U.S. Strategic Dialogue on December 17, 2025, in Washington, D.C.  Senior Qatari and U.S. officials also participated.  The event attests to the enduring strategic partnership between the two countries under the leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and President Donald J. Trump.  The topics for the dialogue included strengthening cooperation to advance peace, security, and investment.  Discussions and working groups will continue in early 2026, encompassing law enforcement, security cooperation, and deepening cultural ties between both countries.

His Excellency, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, lauded President Trump’s leadership to end the war in Gaza and bring lasting peace to the Middle East.  On behalf of President Trump, Secretary Rubio thanked His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and the government of the State of Qatar for their important role as a mediator to enable President Trump’s Gaza Peace Plan and resolution of other conflicts.  On wider Middle East security, the two Ministers affirmed their support for efforts to stabilize Syria, counter terrorism in the country, and boost its economy.

Global and Regional Cooperation

Secretary of State Rubio affirmed the U.S.-Qatari partnership as a model of peace through strength to meet regional and global challenges together.  Qatari and U.S. officials discussed shared strategic priorities, including Gaza, Iran, Syria, Lebanon, Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, and Haiti.  The United States and Qatar reaffirmed their partnership as a force for peace and stability, emphasizing a shared commitment to confront regional and global threats through unity.

Prime Minister Al Thani praised the leadership of President Trump in forging a new coalition of nations, of which Qatar is a part.  Together, the United States and Qatar are partners in shaping a future grounded in peace, where extremism and terror have no place.

Economic Affairs and Investments

Qatar and the United States highlighted their strong economic partnership, which continues to generate economic growth, support job creation, and foster collaboration in advanced technology and energy, particularly given the two countries’ uniquely aligned interests to promote global energy abundance and stable energy markets.  This builds upon the over $240 billion in economic deals secured during President Trump’s visit to Qatar in May.  Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al Thani Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs affirmed that as Qatar charts a path to a diversified economy driven by technology, innovation, and knowledge, its deep investment partnership with the U.S. has been central to their mutual success.  The United States highlighted ongoing efforts to streamline regulatory processes and promote a welcoming investment climate, while Qatar reiterated its dedication to economic diversification and technology-driven innovation. 

Deals secured this year include:

  • $96 billion deal from Qatar Airways to acquire up to 210 American-made Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777X aircraft powered by GE Aerospace engines. The Qatar contract will support over 154,000 U.S. jobs annually, totaling over one million jobs in the years to come.
  • $97 billion offered by Qatar to U.S. Company Parsons on projects advancing innovation. This deal will also support hundreds of thousands of well-paid jobs across the United States.
  • $8.5 billion contract from Qatar Energy with McDermott to advance critical energy infrastructure.
  • $1 billion will be invested in the Quantinuum Joint Venture Agreement with Al Rabban Capital, advancing state-of-the-art quantum technologies.

Defense and Security Cooperation

Qatar and the United States reaffirmed their defense and security partnership as recognized in the September 29 Executive Order Assuring the Security of the State of Qatar.  Both sides continue to enhance regional deterrence, strengthen joint defense capabilities, and support economic growth through defense investment.  The partnership includes significant military infrastructure upgrades at Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, advancing air and maritime security, and increasing NATO interoperability through joint training and operational initiatives.  The United States reiterated its commitment to Qatar’s security and territorial integrity, while Qatar underscored the value of continued cooperation in addressing shared security challenges. 

Qatari defense investment enhances regional deterrence and boosts U.S. defense manufacturing to drive economic growth and well-paid U.S. jobs.  Both sides reaffirmed the statement of intent signed during President Trump’s May trip outlining over $38 billion in potential investments including support for burden-sharing at AUAB and future defense capabilities.  They further discussed the establishment of the first bilateral combined command post for air defense, strengthening joint defense capabilities in the Gulf and beyond.  Secretary of State Rubio welcomed Qatar’s procurement of cutting-edge military equipment including innovative defense technologies as part of the $2 billion deal with General Atomics of remotely piloted aircraft systems.  The two sides also reviewed a further $1 billion agreement with Raytheon for the purchase of counter-drone capabilities to protect Qatar.

Counterterrorism and Law Enforcement

The two governments emphasized their long-standing partnership addressing terrorist threats and crime highlighting their close cooperation in counterterrorism and law enforcement.  Both sides recognize Qatar’s frontline role in global counterterrorism efforts and commitment to international standards in combating terrorist financing and anti-money laundering including, identifying and disrupting illicit networks, protecting citizens, and advancing shared security objectives.  As the United States prepares to co-host the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, Qatar pledges full cooperation and support to the United States to ensure the tournament’s success.  Such cooperation includes the recent signing of two Memoranda of Understanding between the Ministry of Interior and Lekhwiya and the FBI to advance security cooperation mechanisms and coordinate training, information exchange, and capacity-building, in support of both countries’ shared interests.  The United States and Qatar also signed statements of intent on countering unmanned aerial systems and civil aviation security.

Culture, Sports, and Education

Qatar and the United States underscored the importance of deepening cultural and educational cooperation, noting the value of our decades-long academic and educational institutional partnership.  The two governments highlighted the renewal of a memorandum of understanding between Qatar Museums and the Smithsonian Institution as a foundation for expanded collaboration.  Both sides intend to share best practices in the arts through a Strategic Dialogue Working Group on Culture, Sports, and Education, including potential cooperation on the Art in Embassies program and engagement during Art Basel.

Enduring Strategic Partnership

Qatar and the United States emphasized the importance of their enduring strategic partnership and continued cooperation across key issues.  Both sides look forward to the next Strategic Dialogue in Doha in 2026.

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Egypt: President El-Sisi Meets African Delegations Heads on Sidelines of Russia-Africa Conference

Source: APO


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Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received the ministers and heads of African delegations, along with representatives from the African Union Commission and regional organizations, who are participating in the second ministerial conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum, hosted by Egypt. The meeting was attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration, and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs Dr. Badr Abdel-Atty.

Spokesman for the Presidency Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy said the President started the meeting by welcoming the ministers and representatives of the participating delegations, and delivered a speech on this occasion.

President El-Sisi engaged in an interactive dialogue with the participants, during which the President expressed his pleasure in meeting them, stressing his hope for a better future for the people of the continent. The President explained that Africa possesses natural and human resources that qualify it to occupy the positionit deserves globally, emphasizing that the challenges the continent faces are well-known. The key element is how to manage and implement the necessary plans to overcome them.

President El-Sisi gave an example of how some African countries have a wealth of livestock. This calls for the establishment of an advanced meat industry to achieve self-sufficiency in meat and for export.

The President also pointed out that the rainfall and water in Africa exceed its needs, provided that they are managed and used efficiently. President El-Sisi stressed that the lack of stability and security remains the biggest obstacle to attracting investments.

President El-Sisi emphasized the need to make every effort to achieve security and stability and warned that their absence increases credit risks. The President wished stability, development, and prosperity for all African countries and peoples and stressed that the stability of any African country should not come at the expense of the interests of another country. President El-Sisi added that Egypt, during its presidency of the African Union in 2019, called for the need to provide appropriate infrastructure for African countries, especially during the President’s meetings with European and western leaders at various international and regional forums .

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.