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Senegal’s Minister of Energy, Petroleum and Mines Invites Energy Stakeholders to MSGBC 2025

Source: APO – Report:

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Birame Souleye Diop, Minister of Energy, Petroleum and Mines of Senegal, has invited all energy stakeholders to participate in the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 Conference and Exhibition, taking place on December 8–10 in Dakar.

Speaking during a press conference on Thursday, he emphasized that the conference has become a cornerstone of African energy cooperation and called on institutions, companies and regional partners to join the dialogue shaping the next phase of the MSGBC basin’s development.

Taking place under the theme Energy, Oil and Mining in Africa: Synergies for Inclusive Economic Development, MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 Conference and Exhibition will be held under the patronage of Bassirou Diomaye Faye, President of Senegal and in partnership with the Ministry of Energy, Petroleum and Mines, the national oil company Petrosen and state-owned COS Petrogaz.

“The MSGBC region–Mauritania, Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and Guinea-Conakry–is not just a geological basin. It is a community of shared destiny, united by one ambition: to transform our resources into drivers of inclusive and sustainable growth,” Minister Diop said, adding that the event is a platform for institutions, companies and international investors to explore new opportunities and forge partnerships across the region.

During his address, Minister Diop highlighted bp and Kosmos Energy’s Greater Tortue Ahmeyim gas projects (GTA) as a key example of cross-border partnership.

“GTA is a symbol of successful cooperation and economic integration,” the Minister said. Phase 1 of the project began producing gas in December 2024, with 20–25% expected to supply domestic power and industrial needs. Plans for Phase 2 could raise production to around 5 million tons of LNG per year, while technical inspections have confirmed stable operations.

He noted Senegal’s Gas-to-X strategy, saying, “Our goal is to transform gas into electricity, industrial inputs, fertilizers and cleaner fuels.” He explained that the strategy supports economic diversification while positioning gas as a complement to renewable energy in the country’s energy transition.

Minister Diop also emphasized strengthening local content. “Every project must benefit our citizens first,” he said.

Recent initiatives in Senegal’s energy sector align closely with this strategy. In November 2025, the Senegalese university INPG partnered with global energy company Woodside Energy (https://apo-opa.co/4rq3rB8) on the Sangomar project to expand local capacity, awarding contracts to Senegalese companies and providing skills development for engineers and technicians. Earlier in April 2025, the INPG (https://apo-opa.co/4rc4zIl) signed a tripartite agreement with the state-owned Vocational and Technical Training Fund and the National Committee for Monitoring Local Content to train and integrate 1,000 young professionals by 2026, with a long-term goal of 15,000 by 2029. 

Sandra Jeque, Project Director at Energy Capital & Power, stated, “MSGBC 2025 will showcase how the region is developing talent, infrastructure and partnerships that place African capabilities at the center of Africa’s energy future.”

Minister Diop concluded, “MSGBC 2025 is a unique opportunity to advance energy access, resource transformation and economic development across the African continent.”

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. 

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Casablanca to Host the 4th OIC Business Intelligence Center (OBIC) Capacity-Building Programme, Strengthening Credit Information Systems Across Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Member States

Source: APO – Report:

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The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) (https://ICIEC.IsDB.org), a Shariah-based multilateral insurer and member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, announced today that the 4th Capacity-Building Programme for Users of the OIC Business Intelligence Center (OBIC) will be held from 24 to 26 November 2025 in Casablanca.

The programme, sponsored by ICIEC, the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), the African Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank), and the Islamic Centre for Development of Trade (ICDT), represents a key milestone in advancing the quality, accessibility and integration of credit and business information across the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Member States.

As ICIEC’s flagship initiative, OBIC provides an essential platform that supports Member States in modernizing their credit-reporting ecosystems, strengthening business intelligence infrastructure and enabling informed trade and investment decisions that reduce risk and foster sustainable development.

The three-day programme will convene senior officials and experts to examine the role of business intelligence in strengthening economic decision-making, beginning with an opening session featuring partner institutions. Discussions will cover OBIC’s contribution to national and cross-border credit ecosystems, the use of reliable credit information in banking, export operations and investment promotion, as well as the relevance of platforms such as the Africa Trade Gateway.

The agenda further includes practical case studies from Tunisia, insights into the AMAN Union shared credit database, and an overview of unique entity identifiers like MANSA and GLEIF. The programme will conclude with success stories on women’s economic empowerment in Africa and a session on enhancing the use of statistical and business intelligence tools by investment promotion agencies, followed by a closing ceremony.

Dr. Khalid Khalafalla, Chief Executive Officer of ICIEC, stated: “Strengthening the quality, reliability and accessibility of credit information across our Member States is essential to unlocking sustainable trade and investment flows. Through the OBIC platform and this capacity-building programme, we are empowering institutions with the tools needed to make informed decisions, reduce risks, and accelerate economic opportunities across the OIC region. Our partnership with IsDB, BADEA, Afreximbank and ICDT reflects our shared commitment to building a more transparent, interconnected and resilient economic ecosystem for our Member States.”

– on behalf of Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC).

Email:
ICIEC-Communication@isdb.org 

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About The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC): 
As a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, ICIEC commenced operations in 1994 to strengthen economic relations between OIC Member States and promote intra-OIC trade and investments by providing risk mitigation tools and financial solutions. The Corporation is the only Islamic multilateral insurer in the world. It has led from the front to deliver a comprehensive suite of solutions to counterparts in its 51 Member States. ICIEC, for the 18th consecutive year, maintained an “Aa3” insurance financial strength credit rating from Moody’s, ranking the Corporation among the top of the Credit and Political Risk Insurance (CPRI) industry. Additionally, S&P has reaffirmed ‘ICIEC’s “AA-“long-term Issuer Credit and Financial Strength Rating for the second year with a stable outlook. ICIEC’s resilience is underpinned by its sound underwriting, global reinsurance network, and strong risk management policies. Cumulatively, ICIEC has insured more than USD 121 billion in trade and investment. ICIEC activities are directed to several sectors—energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, healthcare, and agriculture.  

For more information, Visit https://ICIEC.IsDB.org 

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The AFRICA24 Group presents : Visa for Music 2025

Source: APO

From November 19 to 22, 2025, the AFRICA24 Group (https://Africa24TV.com) will offer exceptional coverage of the 12th edition of the Visa For Music Festival 2025, a major event celebrating the cultural richness of Africa, the Middle East and beyond, through a vibrant and eclectic programme.

This edition of Visa For Music, held in Rabat, Morocco, aims to be a vibrant cultural crossroads, bringing together artists, professionals and festival-goers around a rich and diverse programme.

Visa For Music 2025 : A major four-day event offering:

  • Opening ceremony: Grand urban parade through the streets of Rabat.
  • Showcases: Continuous cultural entertainment on the esplanade of the Mohammed V National Theatre.
  • Conferences: Opportunities for discussion on the major challenges facing the music industry.
  • Expostand: More than 50 exhibitors from around the world.

About Visa For Music :

Created in 2014, Visa For Music is the first music festival and market in Africa and the Middle East, held annually over four days in November in Rabat, Morocco, on the initiative of ANYA Culture, a Moroccan cultural engineering organisation, and Atlas Azawan, an association for the promotion of culture and heritage. This event, dedicated to promoting global musical diversity with a particular focus on Africa and the Middle East, is a crucial platform for artists, music professionals and actors in the creative and cultural industries (CCI). It provides a space for meeting, exchanging ideas and creating fruitful collaborations.

The AFRICA24 Group 360° coverage and global broadcasting to 120 million households

Watch ‘Visa For Music 2025’ live, on replay and on demand on all your screens at :

  • AFRICA24 in French (channel 249) et AFRICA24 English (channel 254) of the Canal+ Africa bundle
  • On myafrica24 Africa’s first HD streaming platform.
  • On https://Africa24TV.com which offers you a full access to all our programmes.

AFRICA24 Group, Transforming Africa Together.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of AFRICA24 Group.

Contact:
Communication Department
AFRICA24 Group
Gaëlle Stella Oyono
Email: onana@africa24tv.com
Tél.: +237 691 30 03 40

Social Media:
@ africa24tv
https://Africa24TV.com

ABOUT THE AFRICA24 GROUP:
Launched in 2009, the AFRICA24 Group is the continent’s leading TV and digital media publisher, with four full HD channels broadcast in the major cable packages. A leader among decision-makers and senior executives on the continent, AFRICA24 in French and AFRICA24 English, the Group is the pioneer and leader in African news channels. AFRICA24 has strengthened this leadership through sport with AFRICA24 Sport, Africa’s leading channel dedicated to sports news and competitions, and AFRICA24 Infinity, the first channel dedicated to creative industries that showcase the creative genius of African youth in art, culture, music, fashion, design and more.…

The leading audiovisual brand on the continent, the AFRICA24 Group has four full HD television channels, each a leader in its segment :

  • AFRICA24 TV : Leading French-language source for African news, published by AMedia
  • AFRICA24 English : Leading African news source exclusively in English.
  • AFRICA24 Infinity : The creative talent channel dedicated to music, art and culture.
  • AFRICA24 Sport : Leading sports and competition news channel.

The AFRICA24 Group publishes myafrica24 (Google store and App Store), the world’s first HD streaming platform in Africa available on all screens (television, tablet, smartphone, computers) … More than 120 million households have access to Africa24 Group channels through major operators such as Canal+, Bouygues, Orange, Bell, etc., and more than 8 million subscribers on various digital platforms and social networks.

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G20 Social Summit a historic path of no return

Source: Government of South Africa

G20 Social Summit a historic path of no return

Brazil’s Minister of Human Rights, Macaé Evaristo, has heralded South Africa’s embrace and expansion of the Brazilian-initiated G20 Social Summit aimed at placing human dignity and civil society at the heart of the world’s most powerful economic forum. 

The Minister delivered remarks at the closing ceremony of the G20 Social Summit held in Ekurhuleni on Thursday.

The summit was first held in the South American country during its G20 Presidency in 2024.

“In 2024, [Brazilian] President Lula [Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva] said we were living in a historic moment when we established a social pillar alongside the political and financial ones, and it is a great joy that we see the South African Presidency embrace this initiative.

“Brazil initiated the process. South Africa not only continued it but expanded it and we invite the future presidency to join us because this must be a path of no return. It is through the participation of those who feel in their day-to-day lives the impact of decisions we make that we will lead, overcome gridlocks and continue advancing,” Evaristo said.

The Minister reaffirmed South Africa’s stance that “civil society cannot be merely a spectator” – noting that societal challenges and issues must be at the forefront of discussions. 

“It must participate broadly, diversly and meaningfully in the activity of the decision-making process of the G20. Social development, inclusion, equity and multiple ways of living and existing must be at the centre of global governance alongside macroeconomic, political and financial deliberations.

“The theme that South Africa has chosen for this presidency – ‘Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability’ –  clearly expresses this commitment. History teaches us that it is not enough to have concepts to guide social policies and social environment justice. It is essential to recognise that the grassroots movements and the people [who] organise in their territories are the ones who turn concepts into reality,” she noted.

Evaristo wove in a historical thread – linking South Africa’s struggle and triumph against apartheid – to the current marginalisation of vulnerable communities across the globe.

“It is here that we have gathered for the G20 Social [Summit] to affirm that our steps come from far. This experience of past struggle resonates today in the struggles of peripheries… and they pave the way for the future of G20 countries without hunger, without poverty, without racism, without xenophobia, without LGBTA+ [lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and asexual] phobia, without ageism, without other forms of oppression.

“We recognise that embracing diverse voices and promoting dialogue is essential for G20 Social and [to] consolidate itself as a global reference platform for the integration of civil society.

“Listening to these voices and building response mechanisms with them is the only path that is right… to addressing inequities,” she said.

The Minister summoned the spirit of former President Nelson Mandela as a guiding light to bringing people together for the common good. 

“The combination of the pillars – political, financial and social – reflects the history of our peoples’ struggles. Our great leader, Nelson Mandela, in the 90s emphasised the need for the people to be consulted in political negotiations in the country.

“Now, Brazil and South Africa together reinforce the importance of all people participating in the decisions about the global governance with solidarity, equality and sustainability,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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We will have a declaration, President Ramaphosa says ahead of G20 Summit

Source: Government of South Africa

We will have a declaration, President Ramaphosa says ahead of G20 Summit

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the G20 process is moving ahead decisively with or without the United States after US President Donald Trump threatened to block the adoption of any joint declaration under South Africa’s G20 Presidency. 

Speaking to members of the media as he left the G20 Social Summit to address the B20 gathering, President Ramaphosa expressed confidence that negotiations were nearing completion, despite the United States objections.

“We will have a declaration. The talks are going extremely well. I’m confident we are moving towards a declaration, and they are now just dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s. 

“Without the United States, the whole process of the G20 is moving forward. We will not be bullied. We will not agree to be bullied,” the President said pointedly on Thursday.

President Ramaphosa’s remarks follow threats by President Trump, who has repeatedly criticised multilateral institutions, warning that South Africa “cannot expect a declaration” if the US does not support its content. 

His comments fueled concerns that the G20 Leaders’ Summit could end without consensus, as has happened in previous years when geopolitical tensions derailed discussions.

However, the South African Presidency has maintained throughout the summit cycle that a declaration reflecting global inclusiveness and balanced development priorities would not be held hostage by unilateral pressure.

President expresses confidence in the process

President Ramaphosa told journalists he was encouraged by the progress made across multiple G20 tracks, praising the engagements he had held throughout the day.

“I’ve just spent time with people from civil society. I feel very satisfied and now I am going to meet another group,” he said, referring to his upcoming address at the B20, the business arm of the G20. – SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy President, French President to honour anti-apartheid activists

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy President, French President to honour anti-apartheid activists

Ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit at the weekend, Deputy President Paul Mashatile will host French President Emmanuel Macron to commemorate the French citizens who played a role in the fight against apartheid in South Africa.

The President of France will be in the country to join other leaders who will be attending the Group of Twenty (G20) Leaders’ Summit scheduled for 22-23 November, under the theme ‘Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability’.

“South Africa and France enjoy cordial bilateral, political and economic relations in areas such as trade and industry, defence, science and technology, energy, education, transport, arts and culture, among others,” said the Presidency in an advisory on Thursday.

Friday’s wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the Freedom Park Heritage Site & Museum in Pretoria.

“The ceremony follows South Africa’s recent successful visit to France, which further strengthened the historically warm relations between the two countries by expanding on existing cooperation projects through mobilising investments, as well as identifying new areas of cooperation with specific focus on trade and investment,” said the Presidency.

The Deputy President paid a courtesy visit to President Macron at his residence, the Palais de l’Élysée, in Paris in May prior to concluding a successful working visit to that country.

READ | Deputy President pays courtesy visit to French President Macron
 

The meeting followed a successful SA-France Investment Conference, where commitments were made to upscale trade relations between the two countries. –SAnews.gov.za

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Afreximbank delivers solid, steady performance for the nine months ended 30 September 2025

Source: APO – Report:

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African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank or the “Bank”) (www.Afreximbank.com) and its subsidiaries (the “Group”) delivered solid results for the nine months period ended 30 September 2025, underscoring its continued financial resilience.

During the period, the total assets and contingencies rose by 6.98% to US$42.9 billion, up from US$40.1 billion as at 31 December 2024 (FY’2024), highlighting the Bank’s consistent growth trajectory.

While Net loans and advances closed at US$28.0 billion (FY 2024: US$29.0 billion), the reduction is largely attributable to unscheduled early repayments by clients whose financial positions have improved on account of enhanced cash flows and stronger foreign-currency positions driven by higher commodity prices. The Bank’s asset quality remains sound, evidenced by a Non-Performing Loan (NPL) ratio of 2.51%, compared to 2.33% in FY2024.

The Bank’s liquidity position remained strong, with cash and cash equivalents increasing to US$7.6 billion, up from US$4.6 billion in FY2024. This increase was driven by successful and targeted fundraising initiatives and unscheduled early loan repayments from borrowing customers. As a result, the proportion of liquid assets to total assets increased and accounted for 20%, compared to 13% in FY2024. This solid liquidity positions the Group well to support its planned disbursement activities.

Shareholders’ funds grew to US$7.7 billion as at 30 September 2025, supported by internally generated profits of US$654.3 million and new equity inflows of US$224.9 million mobilised under the General Capital Increase II. The reported Shareholders’ funds balances take into account the US$350 million dividend appropriated from FY’2024 profits.

Despite declining benchmark rates, gross income for the nine months to September 2025, rose to US$2.4 billion compared to US$2.3 billion achieved over the same period last year. Operating income also grew by 5.24% to US$1.44 billion, while maintaining strong cost efficiency with a cost-to-income ratio of 21% which is well below the strategic ceiling of 30%.

Resultantly, Net income also grew, increasing from US$642.2 million in 9M’2024, to US$654.3 million in 9M’2025.

Highlights of the results for Afreximbank Group are shown below:

Financial Performance Metrics

9M’2025

9M’2024

Gross Income (US$ billion)

2.4

2.3

Net Income (US$ million)

654.3

642.2

Return on average equity (ROAE)

12%

13%

Return on average assets (ROAA)

2.35%

2.64%

Cost-to-income ratio

21%

17%

Financial Position Metrics

9M’2025

9M’2024

Total Assets (US$ billion)

37.6

32.2

Total Liabilities (US$ billion)

29.9

25.6

Shareholders’ Funds (US$ billion)

7.7

6.6

Net asset value per share (US$)

72,429

66,881

Non-performing loans ratio (NPL)

2.51%

2.42%

Cash/Total assets

20%

12%

Capital Adequacy ratio (Basel II)

                    25%

25%

Mr. Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s Senior Executive Vice President, commented:

“Amid persistent geopolitical tensions, global uncertainty, and tight financial conditions, the Group demonstrated resilience and delivered a satisfactory performance for the nine-month period ended 30 September 2025, in line with expectations. This resilience as reflected in strong liquidity, a robust capital base, and high-quality assets, underscores the Group’s ability to navigate through the challenging operating environment. Beyond supporting profitability, the demonstrated resilience will serve as a springboard for expanding lending activities, enhancing capacity to deliver on the Group’s mandate, and creating sustainable long-term value in line with the 6th Strategic Plan”.

– on behalf of Afreximbank.

Media Contact:
Vincent Musumba
Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations)
Email: press@afreximbank.com

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About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) Group makes written and/or oral forward-looking statements, as shown in this release and other communications, from time to time. Likewise, officers of the Bank may make forward-looking statements either in writing or during verbal conversations with investors, analysts, the media, and other members of the investment community. Statements regarding the Bank’s strategies, objectives, priorities, and anticipated financial performance for the period constitute forward-looking statements. They are often described with words like “should”, “would”, “may”, “could”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “project”, “intend”, and “believe”.

By their very nature, these statements require the Bank to make assumptions subject to risks and uncertainties, especially uncertainties related to the financial, economic, regulatory, and social environment within which the Bank operates. Some of these risks are beyond the control of the Bank and may result in materially different results from the expectations inferred from the forward-looking statements. Risk factors that could cause such differences include regulatory pronouncements, credit, market (including equity, commodity, foreign exchange, and interest rate), liquidity, operational, reputational, insurance, strategic, legal, environmental, and other known and unknown risks. As a result, when making decisions with respect to the Bank, we recommend that readers apply further assessment and should not unduly rely on the Bank’s forward-looking statements.

Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release represents the views of management only as of the date hereof. These statements are meant to assist the Bank’s investors and analysts to understand the Bank’s financial position, strategies, objectives, priorities, and anticipated financial performance in relation to the current period, and, as such, may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Bank does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, whether written or verbal, which may be made from time to time by it or on its behalf, except as required under applicable relevant regulatory provisions or requirements. 

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Television: An African culture engine

Source: APO – Report:

Television – both its content and its technology – has become the backbone of African culture. As the world marks World Television Day, Dr Busola Tejumola, MultiChoice Executive Head (www.MultiChoice.com), General Entertainment Channels, assesses the impact of a platform still bringing people together after 65+ years on the continent.

As we mark World TV Day, the light that television shines on our society remains undimmed. TV remains one of humanity’s greatest connectors. It informs, educates, inspires and entertains – but more importantly, it helps people see themselves and each other in powerful new ways.

Since TV arrived in Africa in 1959, with the launch of Western Nigeria Television, TV has been a vehicle for social connection, cultural exchange and national pride. It gives us shared moments – whether through sports, news or drama – which shape our collective memory.

Africa’s entertainment ecosystem

MultiChoice, a CANAL+ company, is Africa’s most-loved provider of television entertainment, and incredibly proud of our role in building Africa’s entertainment ecosystem.

Since our launch in 1985, MultiChoice has evolved (https://apo-opa.co/49Zelr6) to consistently meet the needs of African audiences. SuperSport launched in 1986; our analogue service reached 20 countries by 1992; we launched digital satellite technology in 1995; and app-based television in 2014. The Showmax streaming service appeared in 2015.

The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) has grown into a continental celebration of creative excellence in television. The MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) has produced 486 graduates and continues to train and empower the makers of TV content across the continent.

Constant tech innovation  

We’ve learned that constant technological evolution is key to maintain the relevance of television in the lives our viewers. Our innovation journey has been driven by customer needs. From HD and 4K broadcasts to the DStv Explora and Catch Up, we have continuously developed how people consume content.

The recent rollout of our DStv Stream and the new Showmax platforms has been another leap forward in delivering content across devices while offering personalised recommendations powered by advanced analytics.

We’ve also made strides in local-language interfaces, adaptive streaming, and user-friendly payment, making our technology both inclusive and empowering.

Technology brings wider audiences into the TV ecosystem – across urban and rural areas, and income levels. Through digital migration, mobile viewing, and flexible subscription options, more Africans can now access quality entertainment without limitation.

For people and planet

At MultiChoice, we’ve also come to understand that accessibility means more than just availability – it can also help to ensure that every viewer sees themselves and their culture in Africa’s storytelling journey.

Television has also become a vehicle for ESG impact. On the environmental front, we’re embracing energy-efficient decoders, eco-friendly packaging, and responsible e-waste practices through decoder take-backs and other initiatives.

Socially, our investments in local content production, skills development through MTF, and community storytelling creates sustainable jobs and cultural capital across Africa. From a governance standpoint, we deploy the latest TV technology for content protection, consumer data privacy and responsible advertising.

Enriching lives

Ultimately, television should add value to people’s lives. People want choice, relevance and control. That means providing diverse content offerings, innovative products and personalised experiences.

Today DStv and GOtv offer bouquets priced from US$1, to 50+ countries across Africa, offering subscribers up to 156 linear video channels. The Showmax service is available in 44 markets. Affordable TV platform GOtv launched in 2011 and now reaches eight markets.

We’ve also learned that true customer value comes from giving people content that resonates, informs and entertains — all while keeping it accessible and affordable.

Television’s impact reaches far beyond local markets. Thanks to the power of modern connectivity, the stories of our African creators now travel beyond borders – from Nigeria to Kenya, South Africa to Ghana, and to audiences worldwide – through Showmax and our international content partnerships.

Content like Big Brother Naija, Shake iLembe, the AMVCAs, as well as SuperSport events like the Olympic Games, the FIFA World Cup and CAF Afcon football have become continental touchstones.

Television has also become a bridge connecting Africa to the world and the world to Africa. MultiChoice is proud to have helped to build that that bridge.

At the same time, local content is the soul of African television. It preserves our languages, celebrates our traditions, and projects our creativity to the world. Through regional channels like Africa Magic, Maisha Magic and Zambezi Magic, we’ve witnessed firsthand how shared storytelling promotes understanding and unity among African nations.

Television has also become a driver of content economies. We’ve come to understand how commissioning new shows at scale nurtures small business and sustains thousands of creative and technical jobs across African value chains. We produced 5 340 hours of local content in FY2025.

TV evolution

The television landscape is evolving rapidly. We see the rise of hybrid viewing – where linear TV and on-demand streaming complement each other. Personalisation, AI-driven content recommendations, and mobile-first consumption are reshaping how audiences engage.

Local content remains king – audiences want authenticity, representation, and stories that reflect their realities. The future of TV will be driven by data, powered by technology, and grounded in human connection.

For MultiChoice, our strategic focus is to remain Africa’s leading storyteller and most trusted entertainment partner. We continue investing in local productions, innovative technology and creative talent development.

Television has shown itself to be an invaluable conduit for culture in all of its forms. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that every African household has access to diverse, high-quality entertainment that inspires pride, fosters connection, and enriches lives – one story at a time.

– on behalf of MultiChoice Group.

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G20 Social Summit declaration presented to President Ramaphosa

Source: Government of South Africa

In symbolic finale to the G20 Social Summit, a collective declaration representing the voices of workers, civil society, youth, women, persons with disabilities, and vulnerable communities across the globe, was formally handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The declaration was delivered on stage by South Africa’s young leaders at the Summit that was held at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre on Thursday.

The declaration was read by Amogelang Mashele, President of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Parliament and a prominent advocate in the Children20 (C20) initiative. 

Moments earlier, dozens of children joined hands in song led by gospel artist Lebo Sekgobela, setting a deeply moving scene that underscored what the President has described as possibly the best of all the G20 summits to be held. 

READ | President Ramaphosa hails G20 Social Summit as ‘possibly the best of all G20 summits’

After receiving the declaration, President Ramaphosa embraced the children and took photographs with them, calling the moment a powerful expression of what he has repeatedly emphasised throughout the summit; inclusiveness, shared leadership, and people-centred participation. 

The declaration, representing outcomes of over 230 community dialogues held nationwide as part of South Africa’s “People’s G20,” outlines the collective global priorities for a fairer, more inclusive multilateral order.

Guided by the African philosophy of Ubuntu “I am because we are” the declaration calls for digital inclusion for all. 
In the declaration, delegates demand affordable and equitable access to digital infrastructure, universal digital literacy, and human-centred governance of artificial intelligence. The declaration stresses stronger online safety measures and the protection of children, women, and vulnerable groups from digital harm.

The declaration also calls for a fair and inclusive trade, resilience, and inclusive value chains.
“The rise of protectionism and increased volatility in global markets threaten the stability of multilateral trade, placing additional pressure on economies that are least equipped to absorb such disruptions. 

“We affirm that diversification of products, markets, and supply sources strengthens resilience; however, resilience alone is insufficient to ensure that trade works for all. We underscore the importance of transparent, predictable, and responsive trade governance systems that enable swift adaptation to shocks and structural changes,” the declaration read. 

The declaration also emphasised that the G20 has a critical role in restoring confidence in global trade and ensuring that the benefits of production networks and supply chains are shared equitably. 

It also called for climate justice, and a people centred Just Transition. With global warming threatening to exceed 2.5°C, delegates emphasised the need for climate action that balances ambition with justice.
 
The declaration calls for:
•    A people centred Just Transition.
•    A Just Transition Facility providing grants and concessional finance.
•    Debt relief mechanisms linked to climate action.
•    Universal access to affordable, clean energy by 2030; and
•    urgent action to eliminate pollution damaging ecosystems and human health.

The delegates also called for the reformation of the global financial architecture. The declaration highlights the inequities embedded in current global financial rules that disproportionately burden developing countries. It calls for reforms to credit rating systems, International Monetary Fund (IMF) frameworks, and Special Drawing Rights (SDR) allocation models, alongside innovative tools such as century loans, strengthened sovereign wealth collaboration and expanded access to long-term, inclusive development finance. 

The acceleration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) also formed part of the declaration. Noting that only 18% of SDG targets are on track, delegates call for transparent national reporting, ethical governance, and innovative financing models to close the SDG investment gap. 

The declaration emphasises that development must be judged not only by growth, but by dignity, equality, opportunity, and the well-being of people and the planet.

Legacy 

The declaration concludes with the announcement of G20 Social Summit Legacy Projects, designed to institutionalise people-centred participation and ensure that the voices amplified under South Africa’s Presidency remain embedded in future global decision-making.

President Ramaphosa who delivered the closing address at the Summit, praised the declaration, saying the Social Summit succeeded in giving people across all communities a platform to speak for themselves, rather than be spoken for. – SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy President Mashatile engages Visa executives 

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has met with Visa executives on the sidelines of the Business 20 (B20) Summit.

The Deputy President met with Tareq Muhmood, Visa’s Regional President for Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, and Bobby Thomson, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Government Affairs, as well as their team.

Thursday’s meeting occurred on the sidelines of the B20 Summit at OR Tambo House in Pretoria, the Deputy President’s Office said.

Mashatile expressed his gratitude to Visa’s executives for their ongoing support and commitment to improving local infrastructure and the digital environment. 

This effort is expected to significantly enhance economic development and sustainability.

The Presidency said the meeting reaffirmed Visa’s long-term commitment to South Africa, which is backed by a R1 billion investment over the next three years. 

A key component of this investment is the establishment of South Africa’s first domestic Visa data centre, which launched in June of this year and is the first of its kind in Africa.

“As a government, we remain receptive to new avenues or concepts for investment, and we are committed to enhancing partnerships to augment investment in our beautiful nation. Your commitment to our country’s infrastructure development has not gone unnoticed,” said Deputy President Mashatile. 

The Deputy President also highlighted the significance of Visa’s partnership and investment in South Africa. 

He noted that this collaboration would localise transaction processing, improve the reliability of payment services, and support innovations such as digital wallets. 

Most importantly, he stated that it will empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), strengthen township economies, and promote youth development through training and mentorship programmes. 

The Deputy President concluded the meeting by extending an invitation to Visa executives to attend the 2026 South Africa Investment Conference. 

“South Africa will host the Investment Conference in March 2026, and we would like to encourage you to participate in this event as we explore further areas of investment and partnership that will benefit you as a company as well as South Africa and its people, especially the youth,” he said.

The B20 Summit 2025 is a significant event, as it is the first time an African country hosts the Group of 20 (G20). The three-day summit, which concludes today, gathered international business leaders, policymakers, and global partners to discuss the theme: ‘Inclusive Growth and Shared Prosperity through Global Cooperation’.

The high-level event serves as the culmination of a year of policy dialogue and task force engagement.
It is a platform for global dialogue, cross-sector collaboration and shared learning, connecting international perspectives with Africa’s leadership moment. – SAnews.gov.za