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Qatar Reaffirms Condemnation of Journalist Killings, Urges Stronger Protection

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, November 13, 2025

Qatar has reiterated its condemnation of the killing of journalists and media workers, calling for their protection under international humanitarian law and relevant UN resolutions to end impunity for such crimes.

The statement came from Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al-Thani, a member of Qatar’s delegation to the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, speaking before the Fourth Committee on issues related to information at UN headquarters in New York.

He underlined the importance of access to accurate and reliable information for states, organizations, and individuals, noting the key role of the UN Department of Global Communications and its network of information centres in promoting awareness, education, and outreach to strengthen the credibility of the United Nations.

Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the vital role of the UN’s Special Information Program on the Question of Palestine, especially amid the current critical circumstances surrounding the Palestinian issue, which he said require intensified and objective communication efforts.

He drew attention to the continuing challenges facing journalists in conflict zones, citing Palestinian journalists in Gaza who have faced grave risks and paid a heavy price in their pursuit of truth and duty.

Qatar, he said, pays tribute to journalists and media professionals – particularly who cover conflicts and humanitarian crises under difficult conditions, emphasizing the need to ensure their safety and protection.

He also underscored the importance of preserving the UN’s archival documents as a vital institutional memory and a shared human heritage, praising the progress made in digitizing the organization’s historical records to make them accessible online.

Sheikh Mohammed reaffirmed Qatar’s pride in contributing USD 7.5 million to support and sponsor this digitization project in two previous phases, and confirmed the country’s continued commitment to backing this important initiative in the future. 

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International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) Signs US$47.6 Million Financing Agreement with the Republic of Türkiye to Strengthen Health Services and Mitigate the Effects of Earthquakes

Source: APO – Report:

The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (www.ITFC-IDB.org), a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, signed a US$47.6 Million Murabaha Financing Agreement with the Ministry of Treasury and Finance (MoTF) of the Republic of Türkiye.  The signing ceremony took place in Istanbul on the sidelines of the COMCEC Meetings, where the agreement was signed by Eng. Adeeb Y. Al Aama, Chief Executive Officer of ITFC, and Mr. Kerem Dönmez, Director General of the Directorate General of Foreign Economic Relations at the Ministry of Treasury and Finance of the Republic of Türkiye.

This agreement marks a milestone in ITFC’s partnership with Türkiye, representing the first sovereign financing facility extended to the Republic of Türkiye and ITFC’s first intervention in the healthcare sector.

The US$47.6 million facility will be utilized to strengthen Türkiye’s healthcare system and mitigate the impact of the 2023 earthquakes. The financing will support the procurement of essential medicines and medical devices for distribution across 12 to 53 provinces, with a particular focus on areas most affected by the disaster. By improving access of critical healthcare resources to people, the facility aims to help restore vital medical services, enhance the resilience of health institutions, and contribute to the country’s ongoing recovery efforts.

– on behalf of International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).

Contact Us:
Tel: +966 12 646 8337
Fax: +966 12 637 1064
E-mail: ITFC@itfc-idb.org

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About the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC):
The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) is a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group. It was established with the primary objective of advancing trade among OIC member countries, which would ultimately contribute to the overarching goal of improving socioeconomic conditions of the people across the world. Commencing operations in January 2008, ITFC has provided over US$89 billion of financing to OIC member countries, making it the leading provider of trade solutions for these member countries’ needs. With a mission to become a catalyst for trade development for OIC member countries and beyond, the Corporation helps entities in member countries gain better access to trade finance and provides them with the necessary trade-related capacity building tools, which would enable them to successfully compete in the global market.

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Eskom’s Chief Nuclear Officer to Advance Africa’s Nuclear Agenda at AEC G20 Investment Forum

Source: APO – Report:

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Eskom’s Chief Nuclear Officer, Velaphi Ntuli, is set to speak at the African Energy Chamber’s (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org/) G20 African Energy Investment Forum, where he will spotlight the pivotal role of nuclear energy in shaping a reliable, sustainable and inclusive power future for Africa. As the continent intensifies efforts to expand access to affordable electricity and transition toward cleaner energy systems, Ntuli’s participation comes at a time of renewed interest in nuclear technology as a cornerstone of long-term energy resilience. 

Eskom’s Koeberg Nuclear Power Station, located near Cape Town, is not only South Africa’s sole nuclear power facility but also the largest in Africa. The plant has been a critical contributor to South Africa’s energy stability since it was commissioned in the 1980s, providing around 5% of the country’s electricity. Today, Koeberg stands as a symbol of Africa’s engineering capabilities and a testament to the role nuclear energy can play in reducing carbon emissions while ensuring grid reliability.  

Koeberg is undergoing a significant life extension project, aimed at extending the facility’s operational lifespan by another 20 years and delivering approximately 1,860 MW of baseload power. The initiative represents a major milestone in Eskom’s strategy to secure South Africa’s electricity supply and underscores its commitment to maintaining nuclear power as part of a diversified energy mix – an essential factor in reducing the nation’s dependence on coal and accelerating its path toward a low-carbon economy. 

The AEC’s G20 African Energy Investment Forum – held ahead of the G20 Summit – seeks to position Africa’s energy sector at the center of global investment discussions. By bringing together African leaders, investors and development institutions, the forum will emphasize how targeted capital flows can transform Africa’s energy landscape, create jobs and drive industrialization. Within this framework, Ntuli’s contribution will be critical in highlighting how nuclear power can complement renewable energy, stabilize grids and support the manufacturing and industrial growth necessary for long-term economic development. 

Nuclear power remains one of the most efficient and low-carbon energy sources available, offering baseload electricity that can underpin Africa’s growing economies. As the global energy transition accelerates, many African nations are exploring nuclear energy not only as an alternative to fossil fuels, but as a catalyst for domestic industrialization, technology transfer and skills development. South Africa’s experience through Eskom and Koeberg provides valuable lessons for other African countries looking to establish or expand their nuclear programs, including Ghana, Kenya and Egypt. 

“Eskom’s Koeberg station demonstrates what Africa can achieve when we commit to long-term, technically sound and locally driven energy solutions. As we work to make energy poverty history, nuclear power offers an opportunity for Africa to strengthen energy security, create high-quality jobs and drive industrial growth,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “The conversation at the G20 African Energy Investment Forum is about ensuring that Africa is not left behind in the global energy transition – and leaders like Ntuli are showing the way forward.” 

As global energy markets evolve, the inclusion of Africa’s nuclear ambitions in high-level investment discussions is both timely and essential. By bringing nuclear energy into the heart of the G20 agenda, the forum aims to attract new partnerships, enhance policy alignment and showcase Africa’s readiness to lead in clean, reliable power generation. 

To register for the Forum click here (https://apo-opa.co/3WWgNHa).  

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Nigeria’s new terror threat: JNIM is spreading but it’s not too late to act

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Folahanmi Aina, Lecturer in Political Economy of Violence, Conflict and Development, SOAS, University of London

The Sahel region, south of the Sahara, is notorious for being the global epicentre of terrorism. With a combined population of 75 million people, the region has accounted for more fatalities than any other on the African continent since 2021.

In 2024, deaths from terrorism across the region stood at 11,200: more than half of Africa’s toll that year.

The situation has deteriorated following the coups in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. The three countries are among the most affected in the troubled region. As of June 2025, these countries contributed to the more than 2.9 million people who have been displaced across the region, more than half of them being children.

As a political scientist with over 10 years of expertise on terrorism, insurgencies and extremism in west Africa, I have closely monitored the emergence, evolution and endurance of armed non-state actors.

Violent extremist groups operating across the region, affiliated to the Islamic State (IS) and al-Qaida, have used tactics like kidnappings for ransom, ambushes, cattle rustling, and attacks on military formations.

Recent attacks have reflected the changing character of this hybrid warfare. Low-cost commercial drones have been weaponised and artificial intelligence has been adopted as part of a broader propaganda strategy. There have been forays into the world of cryptocurrency to diversify revenue sources.

These violent extremist groups have leveraged local grievances which have their roots in worsening socio-economic conditions, poor governance, weak institutions, and environmental degradation.

I have been tracking the rapid spread of one of the most powerful extremist groups in Africa: Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM). JNIM seeks to expand beyond kidnappings for ransom, cattle rustling, human trafficking and taxes on local communities. It has its eyes set on gaining access to gold fields. Control of artisanal gold mines in parts of the Sahel region is a central part of its financial and strategic operations.

Given JNIM’s strength and capabilities, the group now poses an existential threat to Nigeria, which already faces multiple security threats. But the group can be quickly repelled with the right measures in place.

Who is JNIM?

JNIM was formed in 2017 and has up to 6,000 fighters. It is an al-Qaida affiliated group representing a coalition of armed groups driven by similar political ideologies. Al-Qaida is a terrorist organisation formed in the 1980s with the goal of establishing a global Islamic caliphate governed by sharia law.

The Islamic State (IS), though also inspired by Al-Qaeda, has become a rival. It is a Sunni jihadist organisation that also seeks the establishment of a self-governing Islamic caliphate under strict sharia law.

JNIM continues to expand. The group has previously been mostly active in Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso. In May 2025, the group launched an attack in the town of Djibo, in Burkina Faso, which resulted in the deaths of 200 soldiers. In more recent times, it has carried out attacks in Benin, Togo and Côte d’Ivoire.

On 29 October 2025, JNIM recorded its first attack on Nigerian soil, which resulted in one fatality. The attack was on soldiers who were on patrol, in the north central state of Kwara, near the border with Benin, in the early hours of the day.

JNIM had indicated in June that it intended to set up a Katiba (a brigade) in Nigeria, thereby signalling an interest in establishing a presence in west Africa’s largest country.

Why Kwara State?

The choice of Kwara is significant and strategic, given its location at the centre of Nigeria and its proximity to the Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria’s seat of power.

Nigeria’s porous borders have been a major issue of national security concern which violent extremist groups like JNIM are keen to exploit. By establishing a footprint in Kwara State, the group could expand across other neighbouring states, including Niger State, close to the Federal Capital Territory. Another al-Qaida linked Boko Haram cell has already established a presence there, in Shiroro, in recent times.

This leaves other states, particularly Osun, vulnerable, given its proximity to Kwara.

In January this year, Nigeria’s Department of State Services dismantled an Islamic State cell in Osun state. The state has significant gold deposits.

Over the past two months, JNIM has enforced a fuel blockade in Mali’s Kayes region, which accounts for over 70% of Mali’s gold production.

With the recent rise in gold prices, the terror group has a greater incentive to tighten its grip on the region.

Nigeria’s response

Nigeria has made gains in its counterterrorism efforts, which have included military and non-military approaches. But a lot still needs to be done to avert threats such as those from terror groups.

A first step would be to strengthen border security and management by using advanced technologies, including facial recognition technology and unmanned aerial vehicles, to complement human intelligence on the ground.

The establishment of temporary military positions across Nigeria’s north central region for rapid deployment would provide useful offensive bulwarks against the advancement and expansion of armed groups into the north central region.

The sub-national states within the region must also get and use tactical early warning mechanisms.

Implications for the region

Insecurity in the Sahel region is worsening. Violent extremist groups are entering new territories such as Nigeria and parts of coastal west African states, including Benin, Togo, Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire.

The implications for regional peace, security and stability are dire. In Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, despite the juntas’ promises to bring an end to insecurity, a more realistic solution to the problem entails the restoration of democratic rule. That would pave the way to strengthening institutions that could address the root causes of the crisis.

– Nigeria’s new terror threat: JNIM is spreading but it’s not too late to act
– https://theconversation.com/nigerias-new-terror-threat-jnim-is-spreading-but-its-not-too-late-to-act-269562

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Collaboration key for biodiversity conservation

Source: Government of South Africa

The Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Narend Singh, has emphasised that safeguarding South Africa’s biodiversity requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, anchored by a shared national mission.

“Conservation without people is hollow. True success hinges on inclusive, transformative biodiversity management, where local communities are not just beneficiaries, but co-architects and custodians,” the Deputy Minister said on Friday.

This echoes the objectives of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2050.

It includes four goals for 2050 and 23 urgent, action-oriented targets for 2030, which are designed to address drivers of biodiversity decline, such as habitat loss, pollution and invasive species, and to promote sustainable use of natural resources. 

As part of these efforts, South Africa is aligning its National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) with this framework.

“This point was brought home to me very strongly just this week. I attended the World Tribal Alliance gathering, which brought together traditional leaders from 15 countries. Their indigenous knowledge is remarkable — and too often exploited. At COP16 in Colombia, we cemented the Cali Call for Action to protect Indigenous Knowledge holders and ensure they benefit economically from the remedies, medicines and innovations derived from their heritage,” Singh said.

He made these remarks during the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) South Africa Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Sandton, Johannesburg, which brought together a diverse and influential cross-section of leaders from business, government and civil society, all united by a shared commitment to conserving the natural heritage.

“It is in this spirit that I call on the WWF to champion community-based natural resource management and co-management agreements; drive skills development, enterprise creation, and market access for youth and women, and strengthen access and benefit-sharing so communities thrive from biodiversity-based economies,” he said.

The Deputy Minister expressed concern about transnational wildlife crime and trafficking. 

“This is not just an environmental crisis — it is an assault on our rule of law, security, economy and biodiverse tourism sector. Criminal syndicates embed themselves in communities, diversify their operations, and exploit corruption and porous borders to traffic high-value species. 

“These syndicates are not only involved in poaching — they are also involved in drugs, human trafficking, and other criminal economies. These are mafia-type networks embedded across society. 

“I am informed that the first fight against succulent poaching is supported by the WWF. You have provided dedicated personnel to assist in this area, and for that, we are grateful,” Singh said.

Through the implementation of the National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking, which was approved by Cabinet in 2023, government is also doing its part in the fight against wildlife crime. – SAnews.gov.za

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Stryk Global Diplomacy to Highlight United States (U.S.)-Africa Energy Investment Collaboration at African Energy Chamber G20 Forum

Source: APO


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Stryk Global Diplomacy, a premier Washington D.C.-based public affairs and government relations firm, will participate in the African Energy Chamber’s (https://EnergyChamber.org/) G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum in Johannesburg on November 21. The firm will be represented by Bryce Dustman, Global Managing Partner, who is expected to share insights on strategic investment, international partnerships and energy policy engagement across Africa’s fast-evolving energy markets.

Working closely with international partners to strengthen bilateral relations, promote energy investment and advance sustainable development goals through strategic advocacy and engagement, Stryk Global Diplomacy has become one of the most influential advisory firms connecting governments and corporations with policymakers in the U.S.

Dustman’s participation comes at a time when the firm has deepened its collaboration with African institutions and stakeholders. Earlier this year, Stryk Global Diplomacy partnered with the African Energy Chamber – the voice of the African energy sector – to advocate for enhanced U.S. engagement in Africa’s oil and gas sectors and to promote an Africa-centric approach to energy development. This initiative underscores the shared commitment between African and international stakeholders to address energy poverty, expand infrastructure and attract private investment into critical projects across the continent.

Stryk Global Diplomacy’s work with clients across Africa – including governments and private-sector leaders – has focused on enhancing trade, improving policy transparency and supporting investment strategies that align with both U.S. and African economic priorities. The firm’s growing footprint reflects its commitment to fostering global partnerships that promote stability, energy access and economic opportunity.

As such, at the G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum, Dustman will be well-positioned to highlight the importance of strategic diplomacy and cross-border investment frameworks in driving Africa’s energy growth. With many African nations prioritizing industrialization and electrification, Stryk Global Diplomacy’s experience in navigating the intersection of policy, finance and governance positions the firm as a key contributor to discussions on creating stable, investor-friendly environments.

“Bryce Dustman’s participation at the G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum reinforces the importance of diplomatic engagement in accelerating Africa’s energy transformation. Strategic cooperation between Africa and its international partners will be vital in scaling investment, strengthening institutions and ensuring the continent’s resources drive meaningful development,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

As global investors and policymakers convene in Johannesburg, Stryk Global Diplomacy is expected to help shape new pathways for collaboration and investment – unlocking opportunities across energy, infrastructure and industrial development throughout Africa.

To register for the Forum click here (https://apo-opa.co/3LNuMwB).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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CORRECTION: Big 5 Global features international solutions, strengthening resilient supply chains for Africa’s construction and infrastructure growth

Source: APO

  •  Over 65 countries exhibit, with 70% of solutions being international, connecting African construction stakeholders to global suppliers and technology providers
  • Over 2,800 exhibitors showcase low-carbon solutions, modular builds, energy-efficient systems and prefabrication methods that reduce waste and improve resource use

Across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, urbanization is reshaping economies at unprecedented speed. With more than half the world’s population now living in cities, a figure expected to reach nearly 68% by 2050, according to the United Nations, Africa is witnessing massive demand for housing, transport and urban development projects. As project volumes grow, industry leaders are turning to Big 5 Global (www.Big5Global.com) to explore technologies and solutions that strengthen construction supply chains, improve technological efficiency and advance sustainability.

Bringing together participants from over 165 countries, with 70% solutions from international companies, Big 5 Global connects Africa’s construction and urban development ecosystem to a global network of suppliers, manufacturers and technology providers.

Strengthening global supply chains for project efficiency

Big 5 Global brings together 2,800 exhibitors and over 60,000 products, services, systems and solutions from around the world, supporting efficient, reliable project delivery.

International pavilions from Germany and Italy return with expertise in advanced materials, including high-performance concrete, cement, marble and stone systems, while India expands its footprint with advanced MEP and smart construction solutions for large-scale projects across the Middle East and Africa. Returning pavilions, Austria and Pakistan, showcase export-ready innovations in modular builds, interiors and MEP systems designed to reduce costs and streamline delivery. Additionally, exhibitors from Armenia, Croatia, Hungary, Jersey, New Zealand, Norway and Serbia further broaden sourcing options for buyers seeking diversified and reliable supply routes.

“As Africa accelerates its infrastructure development agenda, collaboration across borders has become vital to advancing sustainable and resilient construction,” said Lufuno Ratsiku, President, South African Council for the Projects and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP) and Managing Director, Gentec Consulting. “Big 5 Global provides an essential meeting point for this exchange, connecting implementers, policymakers and innovators under one roof. Beyond theoretical discussion, it enables high-impact dialogue on urban development, construction and technology solutions, helping position Africa’s industry professionals at the forefront of regional growth and resilience.”

As supply networks evolve to meet regional demand, technology is driving the next phase of efficiency in project delivery and procurement.

Technology transforming procurement and project delivery

Digitalization is transforming how projects are procured, managed and executed. At Digital Construction World, global exhibitors including Autodesk, Nemetschek Group, Odoo, Premier Construction Software, Procore Technologies, RIB Software and Trimble showcase technologies that enhance visibility and efficiency across the supply chain. Odoo integrates procurement, HR and operations into a single suite, reducing redundancies; Premier Construction Software simplifies cost tracking and project management; Trimble leverages automation to cut site rework by up to 25%, directly improving delivery times and project profitability; and Meter Technology demonstrates its fully integrated digital solution that transforms surveying and engineering, eliminating decades-old inefficiencies.

Eng. Ahmed Al-Ansary, Chairman, Founder & CEO of Meter Technology, commented: “Meter transforms surveying and engineering from traditional to tech-driven. As the world’s first fully integrated digital platform, we’ve eliminated decades-old inefficiencies. Our AI-powered system completes complex projects within 48 hours with exceptional precision across nine countries. Big 5 Global offers the opportunity to connect with industry leaders and explore sector development worldwide under ‘From the UAE to the World’, where geospatial and engineering digital innovation forms the foundation of real estate sustainability.”

Sustainable manufacturing and smarter material supply

International exhibitors are also rethinking how materials are produced, transported and reused to reduce environmental impact while improving long-term value.

China’s new Eco-Friendly Zone is built entirely from recyclable materials and features solutions for low-carbon construction, showcasing how sustainability can be integrated throughout the supply chain.

Among key participants, Grundfos Gulf Distribution leads with energy-efficient pumping systems that reduce water and energy use in commercial and industrial facilities. Deewan Equipment Trading LLC introduces modular and precast manufacturing plants that cut onsite waste and shorten construction schedules through prefabrication. Hitech Concrete Products showcases precast hollow-core and insulated wall systems designed for thermal efficiency and reduced raw material consumption, advancing sustainable construction practices across the region.

GF, a leading provider of MEP solutions and sustainable building technologies, returns to Big 5 Global to showcase its advanced systems that support efficient construction workflows and environmentally responsible project delivery. “The region is pursuing one of the world’s most ambitious development programs, where sustainable water management is key to realizing this vision. GF is uniquely positioned to support this progress through its comprehensive solutions portfolio, our local presence including manufacturing, offsite-manufacturing and customer experience facilities, long-standing regional partnerships and dedicated teams who understand the market’s unique challenges,” said Michael Rauterkus, Executive Committee member of GF and President of GF Building Flow Solutions.

These contributions highlight how collaboration with global manufacturers helps the UAE advance smart cities and net-zero goals.

“As rapid urbanization increases demand for project efficiency, quality and delivery, the global construction landscape must accelerate efforts toward net-zero goals and cross-sector collaborations,” said Josine Heijmans, Senior Vice President, dmg events. “Big 5 Global continues to connect government entities, international manufacturers and regional stakeholders, helping strengthen construction supply chains and advance sustainable growth across the built environment.”   

Big 5 Global is supported by leading sponsors and partners, including Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure, Dubai Civil Defense, Ministry of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Municipality, Department of Municipalities and Transport, Ras Al Khaimah Municipality, Riyadh Region Municipality, Meter Technology, Schüco, Alumil, Italian Trade Agency, Arabian Gulf Steel Industries (AGSI), GF, Dubai Investments Park, Würth Professional Solutions, MIE Groups, Daikin, Hisense, TCL, Gulf-O-Flex, DAC Group, DeWalt, Nassar Stone and Nemetschek Group.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Big 5 Global.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Deepra Ahluwalia
Action PR
deepra.a@actionprgroup.com
971 56 477 0995

Nour Ibrahim
Action PR
nour.i@actionprgroup.com
971 54 425 0187

Khushie Mallya
PR Executive
Construction, dmg events
khushiemallya@dmgevents.com

Ranju Warrier
Head of PR & Communications
Construction, dmg events
ranjuwarrier@dmgevents.com

About Big 5 Global:
With a 45-year legacy, Big 5 Global is the largest and most influential building and construction event in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia and the annual meeting hub for the global construction industry.  Taking place from 24 – 27 November 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Big 5 Global attracts more than 85,000 global attendees from over 165 countries and 2,800 exhibitors to UAE covering the full construction and urban development cycle across dedicated sectors and nine specialized events enabling industry professionals to source worldwide building solutions for every stage of construction: Heavy, Totally Concrete, Marble & Stone World, Urban Design & Landscape, Windows, Doors & Facades, HVACR World, LiveableCitiesX, GeoWorld and Future FM.   

For more information and to register, visit: www.Big5Global.com

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G20 Energy Investment Forum to Unite Africa’s Top Finance, Insurance and Technology Leaders

Source: APO


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Leaders from Africa’s finance, telecommunications and insurance sectors have been confirmed as speakers at the G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum, hosted by the African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org/) on November 21 in Johannesburg. The lineup features Dele Kuti, Global Head of Energy and Infrastructure at Standard Bank; Simon Karikari, CEO of Vodacom Mozambique and Lida Preyma, Founder and CEO of Cēlendaire Capital. 

Standard Bank has reinforced its role as a key financier of energy and infrastructure projects across Africa, updating its sustainable finance targets to mobilize over R450 billion by 2028, with R74.3 billion financed in 2024 alone. The bank has supported major energy developments, including South Africa’s 400 MW Overberg Wind Farm, set to become the country’s largest single commercial wind project, Namibia’s Diaz Wind Project, where it acted as lead arranger for a NAD1.2 billion facility, the 140 MW Ishwati Wind Farm, which employs an innovative energy aggregator model, and Seriti Green’s 155 MW wind project in Mpumalanga. Beyond project finance, Standard Bank has provided corporates with strategic debt and equity solutions, including a $130 million facility for Tharisa to strengthen its capital structure and support its underground mining transition, as well as a R7 billion facility for Mulilo Energy to advance its renewable energy pipeline, including battery storage systems and projects under South Africa’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program. 

Under Karikari’s leadership, Vodacom Mozambique has been expanding connectivity and technological infrastructure across the country. In 2024, the company invested $25 million in a tier 3, carrier-neutral data center in Matola, providing direct access to the 2Africa subsea cable and serving as a hub for secure and reliable digital services. Vodacom is accelerating its 5G rollout, targeting up to 75% population coverage by 2025, while advancing rural network expansion. Partnerships with the UK’s Aritel Africa and Orange in the Democratic Republic of Congo support network sharing and the deployment of solar-powered base stations, improving operational efficiency and fostering digital inclusion. The company has also launched affordable devices, such as the Digit 4G Z1, to broaden access to digital services. 

Cēlendaire Capital brings strategic investment expertise to Africa’s emerging markets, focusing on capital deployment and innovative financing solutions that enable access to growth opportunities across technology, energy and infrastructure sectors. While the firm does not disclose project details, its participation at the forum highlights its role in driving sustainable investment and strategic partnerships across Africa. 

“The presence of Standard Bank, Vodacom Mozambique and Cēlendaire Capital at the G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum demonstrates the incredible depth of expertise driving Africa’s growth across finance, infrastructure and technology. This forum is more than a discussion – it is a platform to unlock strategic investments, accelerate innovation and build Africa’s economic future,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.  

To register for the Forum click here (https://apo-opa.co/3JVEGvt). 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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DWS welcomes court ruling on Emalahleni sewage pollution case

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has welcomed a judgment by the Mpumalanga Division of the High Court, which found the Emalahleni Local Municipality guilty of multiple environmental offences under the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) and the National Water Act (NWA).

The ruling follows the municipality’s repeated failure to comply with several directives and compliance notices aimed at preventing sewage spillages into water resources and the surrounding environment. A criminal case was subsequently opened to compel the municipality to halt ongoing pollution.

The court imposed a R650 million fine, with R150 million suspended for five years, on condition that the municipality does not commit further pollution-related offences during the suspension period.

In a statement on Friday, the department welcomed the decision for R500 million of the fine to be allocated to the rehabilitation, urgent refurbishment, and repair of all identified dysfunctional wastewater infrastructure and operations by 2031.

Infrastructure cited in the judgment includes the Klipspruit, Riverview, Ferrobank, (including pump stations, manholes, and network systems), Naauwpoort, Thubelihle and Kriel Wastewater Treatment Works, as well as the Phola and Vilakazi sewer pump stations, along with associated pump stations, manholes and network systems.

The department said the magnitude of the fine reflects the extent of the dysfunctional infrastructure that requires attention.

“It also called on the community to play its part in reducing sewer spillages by refraining from disposing of foreign objects into toilets and sewer lines,” the department said.

As infrastructure vandalism and theft have been identified as major contributors to the dysfunction of wastewater treatment plants and pump stations in the municipality, the department urged the community members to help reduce sewer spillages by refraining from disposing of foreign objects into sewer systems and by protecting public infrastructure from vandalism and theft – both of which have been identified as major contributors to system failures.

“This will help prevent infrastructure damage that leads to sewage spillages and the pollution of water resources and the environment.”

The department also commended ongoing interventions by the Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), including the R309 million refurbishment and upgrade of the Ferrobank Wastewater Treatment Works, funded through the Municipal Infrastructure Grant.

The Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA) is assisting with the acceleration of this project, which aims to rehabilitate existing infrastructure and increase the plant’s capacity from 12 to 23 megalitres per day (ML/day).

The department reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring the implementation of the action plan to be submitted by the municipality to address dysfunctional infrastructure, curb sewer spillages, and prevent the pollution of water resources and the environment. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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G20 Leaders’ Summit ‘will go on’ despite absences – President Ramaphosa

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed that the G20 Leaders’ Summit will proceed as planned, despite the absence of representation from the United States (US) government.

The President was speaking to the media on the sidelines of the CEO-City Cleanup Partnership Programme held in Kliptown, Johannesburg, on Friday morning.

Recently, US President Donald Trump announced that neither he nor anyone representing that country would attend the global intergovernmental forum to be held in Johannesburg next week.

“[USA] President Trump has decided not to come and he’s pulled out all the US representatives. But we have said that boycott politics never work. If you boycott an event or a process, you… [lose] because the show will go on.

“The summit will go on. We are not going to stop because they are not here. We will continue and we will take fundamental decisions on matters that affect the people of the world,” President Ramaphosa said.

He noted that the G20 represents “up to 80% of the global economy” and that nearly 40 other Heads of State and Government, as well as heads of global organisations, will be at the Summit.

The President added that while South Africa would not want to handover the G20 Presidency gavel to “an empty chair” – the USA will be the next G20 President – there will be a symbolic handover.

“We will probably symbolically hand over to that empty chair and then talk to President Trump and say: even though you are not here, I am now handing over to you the reins of being President of the G20,” he said.

The President emphasised that despite the boycott, the USA remains an “important market” for South Africa.

“We want to engage more with their businesses. Government facilitates the engagement at trade and economic level so we want to continue trading with the businesses of the United States, and with the people of the United States. We export products to that country. 

“The other issues are political and as normal, we will continue to dealing with the political issues. Sometimes you have to talk to people who may not be very friendly to you to advance the interests of your own people. Sometimes you’ve got to do what people may think is unpalatable but I’m prepared to do it to advance the interests of South Africans,” he said. 

On news that Chinese President Xi Jinping’s will not attend the Summit, President Ramaphosa said this is due to scheduling challenges.

“[It is] because of prior commitments… but the Prime Minister [Li Qiang]… will be here.

“President Xi Jinping has been to South Africa six times and that continues to show his commitment to South Africa, and I have great understanding for his busy schedule in China,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za