Category: English

Source: APO

Overview

An industry-proven Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) unit FPSO Tamara Tokoni is currently available for immediate redeployment to support new or ongoing offshore field development projects.

The unit offers a cost-effective and time-efficient solution for operators seeking to accelerate production timelines, reduce upfront capital expenditure, and optimize field economics.

Key Highlights

• Proven Track Record: The FPSO has successfully operated in offshore environments under challenging production conditions, demonstrating exceptional uptime, reliability, and safety performance.
• Ready for Redeployment: The vessel is currently offshore West Africa and is available for quick field-specific customization to suit project requirements.
• Flexible Production Capacity: Configured for 40,000 oil processing capacity, with associated gas handling and water injection systems adaptable to various reservoir conditions.
• Storage Capacity: Approximately 1.1million barrels of crude oil storage capacity, suitable for medium to large-scale field developments.
• Mooring and Offloading Systems: Equipped with a spread mooring system designed for harsh offshore environments, and an offloading system capable of tandem or shuttle tanker operations.

Redeployment Advantages

• Reduced Lead Time: Compared to a newbuild FPSO (which may require 30–36 months), redeployment can be achieved within 4 to 6 months, significantly shortening the project schedule.
• Lower CAPEX: FPSO Tamara Tokoni redeployment offers up to 55% cost savings versus new construction, while retaining full compliance with international classification and safety standards.
• Field Development Synergy: Ideal for fast-track developments, or brownfield expansions, enabling operators to monetize reserves earlier.
• Flexible Commercial Terms: The FPSO can be offered on lease, lease-to-own, or joint development models, depending on operator preference.

Technical Specification

Parameter                                          Specification
Oil Processing Capacity                    40,000 bopd
Gas Handling Capacity                      66 MMscfd
Water Injection                                   15,000 bwpd
Storage Capacity                               1,100,000 bbls
Mooring System                                 12 point Spread Mooring
Offloading                                           Tandem offloading

Operational Readiness

The FPSO is maintained in preserved condition, with class certification records available upon request. Engineering teams can undertake field reconfiguration studies, topsides modification, and mooring system adaptation to ensure seamless integration into new field layouts.

FPSO Tamara Tokoni represents a strategic and cost-efficient asset for operators looking to rapidly scale production, minimize downtime, and extend the commercial life of offshore reserves.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Redcliff Energy Advisors.

For further technical details, inspection, or commercial discussions, please contact:
Company Name: Redcliff Energy Services Limited
Contact Person: Michael E. Humphries
Tel: +44 (0) 7519 192 649
Email: mhumphries@redcliffenergy.com

Source: APO

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As African countries move to advance clean cooking expansion across the continent, the upcoming G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum will offer a platform for nations to strengthen global partnerships, attract investment and establish regulatory frameworks that deliver clean, affordable energy access at scale. Positioning natural gas at the forefront of efforts to make energy poverty history, the G20 Forum – hosted by the African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org) – will serve as a launchpad for clean energy adoption by connecting global capital with African projects and tackling key challenges to LPG uptake across the continent.

With over 900 million people living without access to clean cooking solutions in Africa, the continent has turned towards LPG to strengthened clean cooking supply chains. The G20 Forum will feature a panel discussion on this topic, with speakers exploring the continent’s investment needs, supply chain infrastructure and market development opportunities. Titled From Vision to Delivery: National Fuel & LPG Expansion Plans, the session will feature Titus Mathe, CEO of the South African National Energy Development Institute; Anibor Kragha, Executive Secretary of the African Refiners and Distributors Association; Sesakho Magagla, Interim CEO of PetroSA; and Tamsin Donaldson, Head of Communications and Public Relations at Petredec.

With over 620 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves and a growing consumer and industrial base, Africa’s gas sector is well-positioned to become a vehicle for both energy access and clean cooking adoption. Governments and energy companies are already making strides towards strengthening LPG supply chains by investing in infrastructure that supports distribution, trade and access. Major developments include the Tanga LPG Terminal in Tanzania, led by Petredec and featuring a capacity of 40,000 cubic meters. The project will come online in 2027, positioning Tanzania as a central hub for LPG distribution in East Africa. Uganda’s LPG Cylinder Manufacturing Plant is also advancing, with 500,000 LPG-filled cylinders set to hit the market during the 2025/2026 financial year. In Kenya, talks are underway to construct a 30,000-ton LPG storage and bottling facility in Mombasa, while South Africa’s Transnet is pursing the country’s first LPG train system and intermodal storage hub.

These projects coincide with a drive by African nations to establish pro-investment policies. With the continent requiring up to $37 billion in investment by 2040 to achieve universal access to clean cooking, clear development targets will serve as a catalyst for attracting capital to the market. Zimbabwe plans to increase access from 38% to 70% and has removed Value Added Tax for LPG to incentivize trade; Angola anticipates a 31% increase in LPG demand by 2027 while Tanzania plans to provide 80% of its population with access to clean cooking solutions by 2034.

Stepping into this picture, the G20 Forum will unpack the changing dynamics of the continent’s LPG market. The session will explore what policy measures are most effective at overcoming the challenges of adopting LPG; how resources should be targeted toward sub-Saharan Africa to ensure equitable progress toward universal clean cooking access; and strategies for mobilizing the necessary private and public capital to build refineries and expand LPG storage. By placing African energy regulators and gas companies at the forefront of this discussion, the forum will reinforce the role LPG play in Africa’s broader energy transition, turning national visions into impactful, on-the-ground delivery.

“Africa’s LPG sector represents one of the continent’s most immediate and high-impact opportunities to expand clean, affordable energy access. But turning ambition into delivery requires a massive scale-up in investment – from building new refineries and storage terminals to upgrading distribution networks and strengthening last-mile access. With clear policies, transparent regulation and strong partnerships between governments, financiers and industry players, Africa can create an integrated LPG market that supports universal clean cooking, reduces emissions and drives economic growth across the value chain,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC.

To register for the Forum click here (https://apo-opa.co/447uirt).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Source: APO

South Africans are paying more for electricity, and still not always getting it. With Eskom’s 12.74% tariff hike this year and another 8.76% and 8.83% increase approved for 2026 and 2027, power costs will have surged nearly 80% since 2022. Yet despite rising tariffs, load reduction remains a regular part of daily life for millions of households.

Against this backdrop, many households are looking for ways to take back control. According to recent estimates, families that switched to solar just three years ago have already saved hundreds of thousands of rand — proof that investing in reliable backup power pays off in more ways than one.

Amid energy independence trends, EcoFlow offers smart, efficient power solutions that keep homes running and costs down. Here are two of our top Black Friday picks:

1. EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max + 400W Portable Solar Panel (https://apo-opa.co/3K4Mlrv) – now R28,385, down from R37,998 (R9,613 off)

A generous 2048Wh capacity makes DELTA 2 Max ideal for home backup, running your essentials for hours during outages and load reduction periods. On full charge, the DELTA 2 Max can power:

• Refrigerator – 14 hours
• Wi-Fi router – 97 hours
• Laptop – 26 times

It can work in sync with the EcoFlow PowerStream Balcony Solar System, storing all energy and cutting up to 33% of annual energy costs.

2. EcoFlow RIVER 2 Pro + 160W NextGen Solar Panel (https://apo-opa.co/3LD7zNK) – now R11,577, down from R15,498 (R3,921 off)

Lightweight at only 7.8 kg, the RIVER 2 Pro delivers 800W AC output (X-Boost up to 1600W) and recharges in hours with the 160W NextGen Solar Panel, providing reliable energy anywhere. Perfect for both home backup and outdoor adventures, it can power:

• Mini fridge – up to 18.6 hours
• Portable Wi-Fi router – 60 hours
• Phone – 57 charges

From November 10 to December 1, EcoFlow South Africa is offering up to 40% (https://apo-opa.co/4qRmwf4) off on its best-selling portable power stations and solar bundles. It’s the perfect time to secure reliable backup power and save more before the next round of tariff hikes.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of EcoFlow.

About EcoFlow:
EcoFlow is a leading provider of eco-friendly energy solutions, committed to powering a new world. Since its founding in 2017, EcoFlow has aimed to be the FIRST in power solutions – Flexible, Innovative, Reliable, Simple, and Thorough – for individuals and families, whether at home, outdoors, or on the go. With headquarters in the USA, Germany, and Japan, EcoFlow has empowered over 5 million users in over 140 markets worldwide.

Source: APO – Report:

The Board of Directors of the African Development Fund has awarded a grant of $9.48 million to implement the Community and Ecosystem Resilience and Adaptation in the Wetlands of the Sahel Catchment Basins Project.  

The financial support comes from the Climate Action Window (https://apo-opa.co/4i6v3Hi) — a climate change financing mechanism backed by the African Development Fund, the concessional lending window of the African Development Bank Group.  

The funding will address a range of climate and human-induced challenges affecting the Sahel’s main river catchments. The Sahelian wetlands of the catchment basins in Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Senegal are subject to ongoing degradation due to unsustainable exploitation practices, ineffective management of natural resources and the low resilience of agro-sylvo-pastoral and fishery systems, aggravated by the effects of climate change. 

The first stage of the project aims to strengthen actions for the conservation and sustainable management of ecosystems in fragile zones, by conducting a study of the vulnerability of Sahelian ecosystems to climate change. This study will be carried out in the eight wetlands in the intervention area with the close involvement of local stakeholders. The priority green economy sites and activities resulting from this study will be supported to empower women’s and youth groups.  

The second component promotes the equitable and sustainable management of water resources and the development of agroforestry and fisheries production by strengthening community capacities and local governance. 

The third component of the project aims to build the capacities of the Climate Commission for the Sahel Region (CCRS), improve local climate services and develop early warning systems for better anticipation of climate-related risks. 

The aim of the fourth component is to ensure the smooth coordination of the project by setting up and running a regional Project Management Unit (PMU), attached to the CCRS, as well as taking charge of the project’s personnel, administrative accounting and financial management, and governance bodies through regular meetings of the regional steering committee, national and regional technical supervision, and coordination with institutional partners. It also aims to ensure realistic planning, rigorous monitoring of implementation, performance evaluation and capitalizing on best practices. 

In Burkina Faso, the project will operate in the Oubri and Kuilsé regions, covering two cross-border catchment basins (Volta and Niger). In Mali, the project will involve the Bougouni (Yanfolila) region, comprising six protected areas (two classified forests, one gallery forest/springhead, two wildlife reserves and one wetland). In Niger, it will be implemented in two wetlands classified as Ramsar sites (the Dallol Bosso and the Mare de Tabalak) which form part of the Niger basin. In Senegal, the project will be implemented in the Senegal River Biosphere Reserve, notably in the departments of Saint-Louis and Dagana.  

– on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media contact: 
Alexis Adélé
Communication and External Relations Department
media@afdb.org

About the African Development Bank Group: 
The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s leading development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). Represented in 41 African countries, with a field office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and social progress of its 54 regional member states.

For further information: www.AfDB.org

Source: APO – Report:

The African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org/) held a joint review of its project portfolio in the Republic of Equatorial Guinea in Malabo from 27 to 31 October.

An action plan to improve the portfolio’s performance was approved at the end of the meeting. Stakeholders plan to set up a coordinated project monitoring system, establish rigorous mechanisms for monitoring contractual commitments and ensure compliance with financial obligations as part of an action plan to improve the portfolio’s performance.

The workshop, which brought together ministerial representatives, technical partners and project management teams, provided an opportunity to assess the effectiveness of the Bank Group’s interventions in the country and to chart the course for future investments aligned with the government of Equatorial Guinea’s Agenda 2035.

The review covered various projects, including the Public Finance Modernization Support Programme (PAMFP), the Support for the Development of Value Chains in the Fisheries and Aquaculture Sector (PASPA) (https://apo-opa.co/3LDvTyV) and the Feasibility study project for Support for the Strengthening of the Digital Ecosystem (PARED) (https://apo-opa.co/4nWt6yo).

The joint portfolio analysis highlighted several obstacles to project effectiveness: slow start-up, delays in setting up management units and delays in the issuance of no-objection notices by the Bank Group. Added to this are the teams’ limited technical capacities and their lack of knowledge of the pan-African institution’s procedures for procurement, disbursement and financial management.

“The Bank is developing close management relations with project management units and stepping up capacity building through targeted training in fiduciary management and monitoring and evaluation,” said Mouhamed Gueye, Divisional  Manager for Social Development and Human Capital for Central and North Africa, representing Léandre Bassolé, Director General of the Bank Group for Central Africa. “We are also maintaining close dialogue with partners to mobilize more co-financing under the 2026 lending programme and beyond,” he added.

“This exercise had several objectives: to ensure that our actions are aligned with Agenda 2035, to review our project portfolio in detail, to identify shortcomings in their implementation and to assess their level of progress,” explained Ladislao Ndong Ndong Bisó, Director General of Economic and Financial Organizations, representing Ivan Bacale Ebe Molina, Minister of Finance, Planning, Economic Development and the Budget. “The results will help define the direction and financing terms for future projects,” he said.

Several complementary activities were organized following the workshop. In particular, a fiduciary clinic for project managers helped to strengthen their knowledge and understanding of the new accounting framework and the Bank’s financial management rules and procedures. In addition, a €58.61 million loan agreement was signed between the Bank Group and Equatorial Guinea for the implementation of the Project to Strengthen Human Capital in Support of Economic and Social Inclusion (PARCH) (https://apo-opa.co/3K1xEFG). Finally, a field visit to the PASPA project allowed the Bank’s delegation to note major progress in the construction of aquaculture infrastructure, which is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2026.

The Republic of Equatorial Guinea has been a member of the African Development Bank Group since 1975. The institution’s first financing dates back to December 1978 for a cocoa tree regeneration project worth nearly $9 million. To date, Equatorial Guinea has benefited from 53 operations financed by the Bank Group, with a cumulative commitment of $337.30 million.

The Bank Group’s active portfolio in Equatorial Guinea comprises six projects with a cumulative value of approximately $167 million. These investments are strategically distributed across several key sectors: social sector (42.2 percent), agriculture (38.6 percent), governance (18.5 percent) and communications, ICT and energy (0.7 percent).

– on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media contact:
Solange Kamuanga-Tossou
Department of Communications and External Relations African Development Bank
email: media@afdb.org

Source: APO – Report:

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The African Energy Chamber’s G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum (https://EnergyChamber.org/) – taking place on November 21 in Johannesburg – will host two exclusive fireside chats that will unpack the future of Africa’s oil and gas value chain, exploring how upstream growth, midstream diversification and downstream modernization can accelerate investment across the continent. At a time when African governments and companies are repositioning themselves for new exploration, refining upgrades and energy-transition aligned strategies, these dialogues will highlight the role of global partnerships in driving Africa’s energy and climate goals.

Oando PLC has set a strong example for how independent oil and gas companies can position themselves at the helm of African energy diversification. By evolving from a trading and downstream company into one of sub-Saharan Africa’s most competitive and integrated groups, the company is not only expanding its investments but unlocking the potential of the continent’s oil and gas value chain. Recent developments reflect this approach. In 2024, the company acquired Eni’s Nigerian Agip Oil Company in a move that widened its upstream portfolio. The company also launched Oando Mining – focusing on developing lithium and other critical minerals -, while reinforcing its downstream and marketing business.

These efforts reflect a commitment to a diversified energy portfolio, one that many independents can mirror across the continent. During the G20 Forum, Tinubu will participate in a fireside chat on Strategy, Growth and Expansion: From Upstream to Energy Diversification. The session will offer insight into the company’s energy strategy, opportunities for African independents in Africa and the need to expand the continent’s oil and gas value chain.

“Africa’s oil and gas value chain is full of untapped potential, and companies like Oando are proving what is possible when African champions lead from the front. Oando’s growth story shows that with the right capital and the right partnerships, African companies can drive transformative expansion across the entire value chain,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

Meanwhile, the South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC) – the country’s newly-formed state entity – has set its sights on accelerated project development, with a view to strengthening supply chains and enhancing fuel security. In addition to pursuing upstream projects, the SANPC has committed to transforming the country’s midstream sector through the revival of strategic refining infrastructure. Lack of investments have long-plagued the country’s refineries, leading to an over-reliance on imports that have made South Africa vulnerable to supply disruptions. However, the SANPC strives to turn this trend around. Key projects include the revitalization of the SAPREF refinery and reinstatement of the Gas-to-Liquids refinery. The company aims to bring the 180,000 barrel per day SAPREF facility back online following a closure in 2022, boosting capacity to between 400,000 bpd and 600,000 bpd in the long-run.

A fireside chat at the G20 Forum will unlock the role these infrastructure projects will play in the country’s energy future. The discussion will feature the SANPC’s CEO Godfrey Moagi, who is expected to share insight into strategies for strengthening the country’s oil and gas supply chain. The discussions takes place under the theme Repositioning the National Champion: Refinery Modernization and De-Risking South Africa’s Supply Chain, providing investors with exclusive insights into South Africa’s midstream expansion strategy.

“South Africa’s energy security hinges on strengthening its downstream infrastructure, modernizing refineries and building a supply chain that is resilient, competitive and future-ready. SANPC is positioned to play a pivotal national role, but unlocking this vision requires global finance, technology partnerships and strategic investors who are willing to back long-term refinery upgrades and fuel-security projects,” Ayuk added.

With global interest in Africa’s energy markets rising and new policies across multiple countries seeking to accelerate upstream and downstream investment, the G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum’s fireside chats promise to provide strategic clarity and actionable insight for investors, national companies and international financiers seeking to expand their footprint across the continent.

To register for the Forum click here (https://apo-opa.co/4pewDcs).

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Source: APO – Report:

• Merck Foundation, in partnership with African and Asian First Ladies, Ministries of Health, and Medical Societies, has provided 925 scholarships, out of a total of 2400+ scholarships, for one-year Postgraduate Diplomas and two-year Master’s Degrees in Diabetes, Endocrinology, Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiology, and Obesity & Weight Management, as well as one-year Fellowship programs in Diabetes and Hypertension, for doctors from 52 countries across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. 
• Merck Foundation released the storybooks and Animation Films “Mark’s Pressure”, and “Sugar Free Jude”, with the aim to raise awareness about early detection and prevention of Diabetes and Hypertension (which are corelated) and to Promote Healthy Lifestyle, amongst children and youth in Africa and beyond. 

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany marks ‘World Diabetes Day 2025’ in partnership with First Ladies of Africa and Asia, Ministries of Health, Medical Societies, and Academia, through their Nationwide Diabetes & Hypertension Blue Points Program. 

Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, emphasized, “At Merck Foundation, we mark World Diabetes Day every day through our strong commitment to transforming Diabetes, Endocrinology, Hypertension, Cardiology, and Preventive Cardiovascular care (co-related conditions) across Africa, Asia, and beyond. Our goal is to build a future where early detection, effective treatment, and healthy lifestyles become the norm, by empowering local doctors and communities through knowledge and specialized training. 

I am proud to share that, in partnership with our Ambassadors, The First Ladies of Africa & Asia and partners like Ministries of Health, Medical Societies and Academia, we have provided 925 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries of Online One-year PG Diploma and Two-year Master degree in Diabetes, Endocrinology, Cardiovascular Preventive, Cardiology, Clinical Nutrition and Obesity & Weight Management; One Year clinical Fellowship program for Diabetes and Hypertension; and also a special 3-month Diabetes Mastercourse in English, French, Portuguese and Spanish. These scholarships are helping to build a robust network of specialists, reaching beyond major cities and capitals.” 

Merck Foundation has in total provided more than 2400 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.  

Dr. Life Zambezi, Merck Foundation Alumnus from Zimbabwe shares, “I am grateful for being offered the PG Diploma course in Diabetes Management. Through this course, I was able to increase my knowledge and turn my passion for treating diabetes into impactful action. This course has further helped me establish a Diabetes Clinic at the district hospital, which has brought relief to many patients. The learning I gained through the PG Diploma has enabled me to serve my community better and raise awareness about the importance of a healthy lifestyle.” 

Speaking about Merck Foundation’s efforts to improve diabetes care, Dr. Rasha Kelej shared, “We are providing scholarships to local doctors not only in capital cities but also in remote and underserved areas. This empowers them to establish diabetes centers or clinics within their hospitals, ensuring access to quality diabetes care for all communities and raising awareness about prevention, early detection, and effective management.” 

According to a World Health Organization (WHO) Diabetes Report, around 24 million adults (aged 20–79) in the African region were living with diabetes in 2021. Projections indicate that this number could increase by 129%, reaching 55 million by 2045. Furthermore, Africa has the highest rate of undiagnosed diabetes, with 54% of adults living with the condition unaware of their status. 

Therefore, as a part of their Community Awareness Program, Merck Foundation has launched various initiatives aimed at raising awareness and promoting prevention early detection and management of about Diabetes and Hypertension. 

Merck Foundation CEO has composed and sung an impactful song “No More Sugar” together with Ghanian Singer Cwezi Oteng. Listen to “No More Sugar” song here: https://apo-opa.co/449ZmXs

– on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard! 
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Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/3LD1osZ

About Merck Foundation: 
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3WYhY97), X (https://apo-opa.co/43v7uli), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/47HcMwz), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/47EBxJM), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4r0gqZZ) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4nZGl1l). 

The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.