Source: Government of Qatar
Doha, August 11, 2025
HE Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi, received on Monday a copy of the credentials of HE Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to the State of Qatar Eugene Crijns.
HE the Secretary-General wished the Ambassador success in his duties, assuring him of providing full support to advance the bilateral relations between the two countries to a closer cooperation in various fields.
Source: APO
As West Africa accelerates energy expansion through large-scale infrastructure, oil, gas, mining and renewable energy developments, the role of advisory firms and strategic partners has become increasingly vital. As such, the upcoming MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference and exhibition – taking place in Dakar from December 9-10 – will feature key players in the sector, underscoring the platform’s role as a key meeting place for regional collaboration and investment.
Taking place under the theme Energy, Petroleum and Mining in Africa: Synergy for Inclusive Economic Development, MSGBC 2025 will convene governments, national oil companies, investors and private sector leaders for two days of high-level dialogue, technical sessions and deal-making. With energy at the cornerstone of the region’s economic future, the conference serves as a critical platform to foster cooperation and unlock shared growth across Mauritania, Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and Guinea-Conakry.
Explore opportunities, foster partnerships and stay at the forefront of the MSGBC region’s oil, gas and power sector. Visit www.MSGBCOilGasAndPower.com to secure your participation at the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.
As a strategic advisory firm specializing in integrated infrastructure, energy and mining across the African continent, Africa International Advisors (AIA) works closely with governments, development partners and private sector clients to structure bankable projects and unlock investment. This year, AIA Partner Henry Gilfillan and Associate Partner Lwandle Fakazi will bring valuable insights to the event, drawing on the firm’s experience in utility-scale renewable power, gas-to-power initiatives, transmission infrastructure and public sector reform within energy institutions. The firm will host a dedicated workshop on the event’s pre-conference day, taking place on December 8, which is expected to provide practical guidance on project preparation and financing.
Business management consultant Conjuncta GmbH is currently leading the development of a $34 billion green hydrogen project in Mauritania, in collaboration with renewable energy company Infinity Power and investment agency Masdar. The project – one of the largest of its kind in Africa – is set to deliver up to 10 GW of electrolyzer capacity and is a cornerstone of Mauritania’s efforts to become a competitive exporter of green fuels and clean energy. As a speaker, Stefan Liebing, CEO, Conjuncta GmbH, is expected to drive discussions around the potential for green hydrogen in supporting industrialization and clean energy exports in West Africa. Liebing is participating in the From Vision to Reality: How Will Hydrogen Shape Africa’s Landscape session, which aims to explore green hydrogen’s role in transforming the continent’s energy future.
Representing global data and analytics provider S&P Global Commodity Insights, Director of Energy & Natural Resources Jennifer Jumbe will also speak at the event. The firm continues to provide critical market intelligence to investors and policymakers across the MSGBC basin, recently covering major developments in Senegal’s upstream sector – including the first crude cargoes from the Sangomar oilfield – and has partnered with Energy Capital & Power (ECP) to expand market access and transparency across Africa’s energy landscape.
Rita Madeira, Africa Program Officer-West and Southern Africa, International Energy Agency (IEA) has also been confirmed to speak at MSGBC 2025. The IEA plays a vital role in supporting African countries on policy alignment, energy security and clean energy transitions. Following Senegal’s accession as an IEA association country in 2023, the agency has deepened its engagement with regional partners, offering policy support, technical assistance and analytical collaboration.
“The participation of top-tier global advisors and institutions – whose expertise spans project finance, legal advisory and energy infrastructure – at this year’s event underscores growing international confidence in the region’s energy expansion. This exciting lineup of speakers reinforces our mission to facilitate bankable deals, targeted knowledge-sharing and cement regional partnerships,” states Sandra Jeque, Project Director, ECP.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
Source: APO
Egypt is advancing partnerships with global investors to expand its estimated 7.3 million tons of gold reserves and production capacity. These partnerships fall under the country’s Vision 2030 strategy to increase the mining sector’s contribution to GDP from the current 1% to 5%.
Amidst a target to increase gold production to 800,000 ounces by 2030, the upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) – Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders – will connect global stakeholders with burgeoning prospects within Egypt’s gold sector.
Sukari Mine Expansion
In April 2025, the Egyptian Mineral Resources Authority signed an agreement with mining firm AngloGold Ashanti to expand gold production at the Sukari Mine. The mine produced 40,000 ounces in 2024, generating $61 million in revenue. The deal also allows further exploration of gold ore and associated minerals in the Eastern Desert and marks a strategic shift after AngloGold acquired the mine from Centamin in 2024.
Shalateen Gold & Silver Industrial Complex
Another major development advancing the growth of Egypt’s gold industry is the construction of the Shalateen Gold & Silver Industrial Complex. Developed by the Shalateen Mineral Resources’ Company – a joint venture of the Egyptian government and international investors – the £700 million open-pit mine comprises two phases. The first phase is set to launch in 2025 and the second phase by May 2026. The project targets to exploit 15 million tons of gold reserves and will feature integrated processing facilities and 168 supporting industrial operations.
Gold Exploration Partnerships
Meanwhile, Egypt is expanding its exploration initiatives through a series of strategic partnerships. In July this year UK-based Nubia Mines Company announced it would soon publish plans for gold production following promising exploration outcomes in the Um Rus Block and Aswan Concession areas.
Egypt also signed a cooperation agreement with Centamin to fast-track exploration of new sites using modern environmental and technical standards in the same month. The agreement also paves the way for cooperation on upskilling of local talent. With Canadian firm Aton Resources, Egypt is advancing its gold development efforts in the Abu Marawat concession while continuing exploration to uncover further reserves.
Amidst these developments and growth in Egypt’s gold industry, AMW will connect Egyptian mining policymakers and stakeholders with global investors for partnership formations and deal signings.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
About African Mining Week:
African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.
Source: APO
The Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference officially issues a call for nominations for this year’s AOG Awards ceremony. From groundbreaking exploration campaigns to pioneering technological innovations to local content champions and lifetime industry contributions, the AOG Awards honor excellence across the country’s oil and gas value chain.
The awards provide a unique platform to showcase success stories, promote industry leadership and inspire the next generation of professionals. Winners will be recognized during the prestigious AOG 2025 Gala Dinner and Awards ceremony, attended by industry leaders, policymakers and investors from across the globe. Nominations are open to all companies, organizations and individuals operating in Angola’s oil and gas sector.
Submit your nominations at https://apo-opa.co/4fATQ51.
Game Changer of the Year
The Game Changer of the Year Award honors a company revolutionizing Angola’s oil and gas value chain through innovative technologies, methodologies or strategies, significantly impacting the industry and setting new standards for future progress.
Explorer of the Year
The Explorer of the Year Award honors a company that has demonstrated exceptional expertise and success in exploration activities within Angola’s oil and gas sector. This award celebrates significant discoveries, innovative exploration techniques and the strategic vision that has led to unlocking new resources and expanding the country’s potential.
Local Company of the Year
The Local Company of the Year Award recognizes the outstanding achievements of an Angolan-owned company that has demonstrated excellence, resilience and growth within the oil and gas industry. This award celebrates a company that has not only excelled in its business operations but has also contributed to the development of local content, created employment opportunities and fostered sustainable practices.
Lifetime Achievement Award
The Lifetime Achievement Award honors an individual or company that has made extraordinary contributions to Angola’s oil and gas industry over an extended period. This prestigious award celebrates a career marked by visionary leadership, innovation and a profound commitment to the growth and development of the sector.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
About Angola Oil & Gas (AOG):
AOG is the largest oil and gas event in Angola. Taking place with the full support of the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas; the National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency; the Petroleum Derivatives Regulatory Institute; national oil company Sonangol; and the African Energy Chamber; the event is a platform to sign deals and advance Angola’s oil and gas industry. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.
Source: APO
Viva Jets, Nigeria’s premier business aviation company and subsidiary of Falcon Aerospace Limited, will participate as a Gold Partner at African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025. Held from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town, the event is the largest of its kind in Africa and takes place under a mandate to make energy poverty history. Viva Jets’ participation is set to foster new partnerships as the continent strives to bolter inter-connectivity.
Viva Jets is implementing a bold expansion strategy in Africa. The company plans to add three Bombardier Challenger 604 aircraft to its fleet in 2025. The acquisition, backed by $25 million in debt financing, aims to meet the rising demand for luxury private jet charter services across Nigeria and the wider African region. The company currently operates one Challenger 604, inducted in April 2024, alongside a Gulfstream G550 and a Hawker 900XP.
Viva Jets secured its Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority in January 2025, enabling the company to operate commercially within Nigeria and beyond. The company is headquartered in Lagos and emphasizes delivering seamless luxury experiences, including flexible options like empty-leg flights.
Further strengthening its regional ambitions, Viva Jets’ parent company Falcon Aerospace Limited recently partnered with Flybird Aircraft Management Services to establish OrientJets, an Aruba-based joint venture currently in the process of obtaining its own AOC. This partnership reflects a broader strategy to expand operational reach and tap into new markets.
As a Gold Partner at AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025, Viva Jets is well-positioned to engage with investors, government representatives and industry leaders to highlight the strategic role of private aviation in supporting Africa’s economic growth, regional connectivity and intra-continental trade. The company’s participation underscores its commitment to fostering the development of Africa’s aviation ecosystem and providing premium travel solutions aligned with the continent’s growth trajectory.
“Viva Jets exemplifies the dynamic growth and innovation occurring within Africa’s aviation sector. Their expansion and strategic partnership highlight the critical role private aviation plays in driving regional connectivity, business development and economic integration across the continent,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.
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
African Infrastructure Investment Managers (AIIM) Investment Director and Head of Investment Strategy, Ed Stumpf, will participate in the upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) – the continent’s leading platform for mining and investment dialogue – taking place from October 1–3, 2025, at the Cape Town International Conference Center.
Stumpf will join a high-level panel discussion on “The Investor Perspective – Financing Africa’s Mineral Industrialization,” unpacking trends and strategies that enable the transition from raw mineral extraction to value-added processing across the continent. His participation reflects AIIM’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure development as a catalyst for long-term, sustainable mining growth in Africa.
AMW serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.
With over two decades of experience deploying capital into essential infrastructure, AIIM has played a pivotal role in enabling mining and industrial operations through investments in energy, logistics and transport. In February 2025, AIIM launched the African Transition Acceleration Fund (https://apo-opa.co/41DlgB8), a strategic vehicle aimed at closing the continent’s energy transition financing gap. The fund targets private sector investment across clean power, sustainable transport and related sectors that either support mining or rely on critical raw materials from it.
Among AIIM’s current projects (https://apo-opa.co/4mfIbei), the 140 MW Umsinde Emoyeni Wind Farm in South Africa’s Western Cape will supply renewable energy to mining firm Sibanye-Stillwater under a 20-year power purchase agreement, with completion expected by late 2026. AIIM is also developing the 144 MW Khangela Wind Facility, which will provide power to Richards Bay Minerals, reducing its carbon emissions by approximately 470,000 tons annually and covering 26% of its energy demand. In Ghana, through its subsidiary Cenpower Generation, AIIM is advancing the Kpone Independent Power Plant, strengthening energy security in one of Africa’s largest gold producers.
AIIM is also expanding its logistics capabilities to support mining operations through partnerships and acquisitions. Collaborations with RATP Group and Alstom aim to modernize South Africa’s passenger and freight rail networks (https://apo-opa.co/4mBaB1U), enhancing the transportation of bulk minerals such as platinum group metals. Additionally, AIIM has acquired a minority interest in Incorp (https://apo-opa.co/4fCwUSO), an integrated logistics company managing critical port and storage assets in Kenya and Uganda.
As African nations push for sustainable mining growth supported by robust infrastructure, AMW provides a vital platform for AIIM and other investors to connect with key stakeholders and accelerate the continent’s mineral industrialization journey. The conference runs alongside African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025, offering a comprehensive view of Africa’s energy and mining sectors.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
Source: APO
The nominees for the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies Awards have officially been announced, celebrating excellence in oil, gas and broader energy solutions. With eight categories covering the entire African energy sector and its value chain, the awards recognize companies and projects that are transforming Africa’s energy future. The award winners will be announced during the AEW: Invest in African Energies Gala Dinner & Award Ceremony – held on Tuesday 30 September and uniting leaders from across the private and public sector in honor of innovation, impact and leadership.
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.
ESG Leader of the Year
Service Provider of the Year
Local Content Champion
Reformer of the Year
Exploration & Production Leader of the Year
Deal of the Year
CSR Project of the Year
Gas Monetization Strategy
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
Source: APO
A new report titled “The Rise of OTC and Stablecoins: Africa’s Quiet FX Revolution” sheds light on a transformative shift in how cross-border transactions are conducted across Sub-Saharan Africa. The findings reveal a surge in the adoption of stablecoins and over-the-counter (OTC) cryptocurrency trading, signaling a major evolution in the region’s financial landscape.
The report created by TechCabal Insights, in collaboration with Quidax Technologies FZCO, combines proprietary data and interviews with market leaders to illustrate how stablecoins are reshaping settlement and liquidity flows on the continent.
The research shows that stablecoins now represent 43% of all cryptocurrency transactions in Sub-Saharan Africa, marking a significant increase from previous years. Global OTC crypto volumes surged by 106% year-over-year in 2024, with much of this growth driven by Africa-focused stablecoin activity. Nigeria emerged as a global leader, ranking second only to India in crypto transaction volumes, with over $59 billion processed last year. Ethiopia and Zambia also experienced remarkable expansion, each recording more than 100% year-over-year growth in stablecoin inflows, underscoring the momentum of adoption across diverse markets.
Businesses across Africa are increasingly turning to OTC desks (https://apo-opa.co/3JaIGro) and stablecoins to streamline cross-border payments, manage FX volatility, and access faster, more compliant settlement solutions. Far from being late to the party, the report available here (https://apo-opa.co/4mwqGWE) positions Africa as a pivotal frontier in the global digital finance revolution.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Quidax.
About Quidax:
Quidax is an African-founded cryptocurrency exchange (www.Quidax.io) that makes it easy for anyone to buy, sell, store and transfer cryptocurrencies. Quidax additionally enables OTC trading (https://apo-opa.co/3JaIGro) and gives fintechs the tools to offer cryptocurrency services to customers through a dedicated crypto API.
Quidax was officially launched in 2018 and has customers in over 70 countries.
Source: Government of South Africa
Government committed to keep American markets open for SA
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau has made it clear that the South African government is pulling out all the stops to keep the American market open for South African goods.
This is amid the recent imposition of a 30% unilateral tariff by the United States (US) on South African exports.
“We will at the same time accelerate our efforts to diversify markets and build on the efforts we have put in place to ensure predictability in trade and leverage all our existing partnerships to secure markets for our products,” Tau said.
He was addressing the media in Pretoria on the outcomes of a Cabinet meeting held last week on the US tariffs, along with the Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen.
Tau said government has been implementing a response anchored on five key elements: continued engagement with the United States to secure a deal and reduce the tariffs; the diversification of exports to alternate markets; an economic response package to vulnerable companies and workers; trade defense against import surge and dumping; and demand side interventions.
“Cabinet has approved that South Africa submits a revised offer as a basis for negotiations with the US. The new offer builds on the previous offer submitted in May 2025. The new offer substantively responds to the issues the US has raised in the 2025 National Trade Estimates Report,” Tau said.
The Minister said the USA-Africa Trade Desk has informed government that it will be shipping containers of poultry and pork to South Africa in two weeks’ time, which is testimony that these issues have been resolved.
“The shipments will come from the states of Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, North Carolina and Alabama through the Ports of New Orleans in Louisiana, Savanna in Georgia and Norfolk in Virginia,” Tau said.
Another significant request from the US was that South Africa consider reducing tariffs as a way to address the deficit and tariff disparity with the European Union due to the SADC-EU Economic Partnership Agreement.
“South Africa continues consultations with industry and in this regard, in consultation with other members of the Southern African Customs Union, will identify specific lines to respond to this request.
“The recent imposition of a 30% unilateral tariff by the United States on our exports is a significant policy shift that necessitates a clear and decisive response. South Africa has accelerated its diversification efforts of export markets and enhanced competitiveness to mitigate the economic impact of losing preferential trade access.
“We are committed to strengthening our relationships, particularly under the AfCFTA, to build regional resilience.
“We will also continue the work we have started with our European partners towards enhancing our trade and investment relations in a manner that unlocks sustainable growth and development and entrenches South Africa in new supply-chains,” Tau said.
Tau said government was looking at Asia, including Japan, Vietnam and Thailand, the Middle East and India.
“We are pursuing these markets because we see growing demand, existing negotiations and a positive reception to South African products.
“This is not just about trade numbers; it is directly linked to job protection. Diversification is about protecting rural livelihoods and sustainable agricultural growth for our people.
“To achieve this, government is deploying dedicated infrastructure for market expansion, including trade and agricultural attachés, increased export certification capacity and a concerted effort to align our biosecurity standards with the requirements of these new markets,” the Minister said.
Earlier this month, government said was creating an economic response package to address job losses and lessen the impact of the US’ decision to impose a 30% unilateral tariff on its imports.
The package will include the establishment of an export support desk and a localisation fund.
In May, South Africa submitted a comprehensive and ambitious framework deal aimed at addressing trade deficits and promoting mutually beneficial relations.
The tariffs took effect from 8 August 2025.
Tau said a high-level negotiation team, including both the dtic and the Department of Agriculture has been identified and is ready to engage the US towards a mutually beneficial agreement.
“Our goal is to demonstrate that South African exports do not pose a threat to US industries and that our trade relationship is, in fact, complementary,” Tau said.
Tau said the unilateral tariffs imposed by the United States of America do not only apply to South Africa.
“They also affect over 130 trading partners with whom American consumers and producers interact,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Source: Government of South Africa
Report exposed electricity wires and illegal connections to save lives
Eskom has called on consumers to use electricity safely and report illegal connections as the power utility commemorates Electricity Safety Month.
According to Eskom Senior Manager for Health and Safety, Miranda Moahlodi, the power utility reported some “200 public injuries and fatalities” related to electricity.
“It is genuinely distressing to think that many electricity-related injuries and deaths go unreported to Eskom because communities feel compelled to protect the illegal connections responsible for these incidents.
“Furthermore, criminal activities are on the rise, evidenced by an increasing number of infrastructure vandalism cases, theft of electricity cables, and attacks on Eskom staff.
“We appeal to communities to help us curb the aggression and violence that Eskom employees are subjected to. Like everyone else, we also have families waiting for us at home after work,” Moahlodi noted.
The power utility urged communities to report exposed wires and illegal connections which “pose a serious threat to the safety of our community, infrastructure, and lives”.
“Poorly installed or tampered with electrical lines are among the leading causes of fires in informal settlements and residential areas. By reporting hazards early, we can prevent fires that devastate homes and disrupt people’s lives.
“Community safety is a collective effort. Each one of us has a part to play. If you notice a dangling/ low-hanging wire, an open electrical box, or unsafe connections running through trees, on the street or rooftops, please do not ignore it.
“Let us commit to regularly checking our electrical systems, reporting hazards, and adhering to safety guidelines. Most importantly, we must act swiftly and responsibly as soon as we identify a risk,” Eskom said.
Report crime and any illegal activities impacting Eskom’s infrastructure on Eskom’s Crime Line at 0800 11 27 22, send an email to eskom@whistleblowing.co.za or SMS 31090.
“Together, we can create safer homes, safer workplaces, and ultimately, a safer South Africa. Remember to contribute by reporting any illegal connections, exposed wires, or electrical wiring that appear dangerous to Eskom or your local municipality.
“By doing this, you could save a child’s life or the life of someone who is unaware of these dangers. Let us look out for each other and always practice electrical safety,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
