Category: English

Source: APO

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The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Republic of Rwanda, the State of Qatar, the Republic of Togo (as the African Union  mediator), and the African Union Commission on the occasion of the fourth Joint Oversight Committee held this week in Washington, D.C.

On November 7, 2025, representatives from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Rwanda, along with the United States, the State of Qatar, the Republic of Togo (as the African Union mediator), and the African Union Commission convened to assess implementation of the Peace Agreement, signed on June 27, 2025, in Washington, D.C., during the fourth meeting of the Joint Oversight Committee (Committee).

In a significant step forward, representatives from the DRC and Rwanda initialed the full text of the Regional Economic Integration Framework (REIF) today, overseen by Under Secretary Hooker and Senior Advisor Boulos. The REIF outlines key areas for fostering economic cooperation and development between the two nations, demonstrating the tangible benefits of peace and creating opportunities for investment and growth that directly benefit people in the region. Its implementation remains contingent upon the satisfactory execution of the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) and Operational Order (OPORD) under the Peace Agreement, underscoring the critical link between peace, stability, and economic progress.

The Committee recognized lagging progress and committed to redouble efforts to implement the Washington Peace Agreement.  The Parties agreed on specific near-term actions in line with their respective obligations for neutralizing the FDLR armed group and its associated groups and advancing disengagement of forces/lifting of defensive measures by Rwanda, reviewed preparations for military operations in a named area of interest, adopted an implementing agreement, and acknowledged the efforts of both of the Parties to translate their obligations into tangible actions on the ground.  The Parties reaffirmed their commitment to refrain from hostile actions or rhetoric, particularly political attacks or language that would undermine or complicate the full implementation of the Peace Agreement, including in international fora.

The State of Qatar provided an update on the ongoing negotiations in Doha between the DRC and AFC/M23, highlighting progress on key issues, including prisoner exchanges. The Committee welcomed the first convening of the Doha ceasefire monitoring mechanism on November 5.  The Committee expressed strong support for these efforts and emphasized the critical role of the Doha process in advancing the broader implementation of the Peace Agreement.

The Parties expressed a shared commitment to maintaining momentum in the peace process and continuing to build on the progress achieved. The Governments of the DRC and Rwanda expressed their gratitude to the United States, Qatar, the African Union, and Togo for their steadfast support in advancing peace and stability in eastern DRC and the broader Great Lakes region.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Republic of Rwanda.

Source: APO

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The South African Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation has noted the content of a post by President Donald J. Trump on the Truth Social platform.

The South African Government wishes to state, for the record, that the characterisation of Afrikaners as an exclusively white group is ahistorical. Furthermore, the claim that this community faces persecution, is not substantiated by fact.

Our position on this matter remains consistent with our previous statements.

The previous statements can be accessed here:

1. https://dirco.gov.za/statement-on-the-us-special-refugee-programme/
2. https://dirco.gov.za/south-african-government-sets-record-straight-on-farm-crime/
3. https://dirco.gov.za/south-africa-rejects-inaccurate-and-deeply-flawed-account-of-human-rights-practices/
4. https://dirco.gov.za/government-of-south-africa-notes-the-usa-executive-order/

Against this backdrop, South Africa’s focus remains on its positive global contributions. Drawing on our own journey from racial and ethnic division to democracy, our nation is uniquely positioned to champion within the G20 a future of genuine solidarity, where shared prosperity bridges deep inequalities. We look forward to hosting a successful G20 Leaders’ Summit.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Source: APO

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On November 7, 2025, President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to Paul Biya on his re-election as President of the Republic of Cameroon.

Xi Jinping noted that China and Cameroon enjoy a traditional friendship. In recent years, the two countries have continuously deepened political mutual trust, achieved fruitful results in cooperation across various fields, and firmly supported each other on issues concerning their respective core interests and major concerns. Next year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Cameroon, presenting new opportunities for the development of bilateral relations. Xi Jinping said that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Cameroon relations, and is ready to work with President Paul Biya to take the implementation of the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation as an opportunity to promote the in-depth development of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, and better benefit the two peoples.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China.

Source: APO

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The African Union Commission (AUC) reiterates its unwavering commitment to the principles of sovereignty, non-interference, religious freedom, and the rule of law, as enshrined in the African Union Constitutive Act and related instruments.

The Commission notes with concern recent statements by the United States of America alleging that the Government of Nigeria is complicit in the targeted killing of Christians and threatening military action. The AUC emphasizes the following:

1. The Federal Republic of Nigeria is a longstanding and valued Member State of the African Union, playing a key role in regional stability, counter-terrorism, peacekeeping initiatives, and continental integration.

2. The AUC fully respects Nigeria’s sovereign right to manage its internal affairs, including security, religious freedom, and human rights, in line with its Constitution and international obligations. Any external engagement must respect Nigeria’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity.

3. The Commission supports Nigeria’s repeated affirmation that its Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and belief and that the Government rejects all forms of religious persecution.

4. Nigeria faces complex security challenges affecting citizens of all faiths, including violent extremist groups, banditry, communal violence, and resource-based conflicts. The AUC calls for regional, and international cooperation to support Nigeria and other African countries, in strengthening capacity to respond to insecurity, protect all citizens, uphold human rights, and bring perpetrators of violence to justice.

The AUC remains ready to provide support through its peace and security architecture, capacity-building programs, and strategic partnerships.

5. The AUC rejects any narrative that weaponizes religion or oversimplifies security challenges. Conflating all violence with a single religious-target narrative may hinder effective solutions and destabilize communities.

6. AUC urges external partners, including the United States, to engage Nigeria through diplomatic dialogue, intelligence-sharing, and capacity-building partnerships, while respecting Nigerian sovereignty rather than resorting to unilateral threats of military intervention, which could undermine continental peace, regional stability, and AU norms for peaceful conflict management.

The African Union Commission remains committed to supporting Member States in promoting peace, security, human rights, and development, while upholding sovereignty and non-interference.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).

Source: APO

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Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message for Africa Industrialization Day, observed on 20 November:

On Africa Industrialization Day, we celebrate the continent’s determination to transform its economies and build a sustainable future for all.

Across Africa, green industries are expanding — powered to a great extent by the ingenuity and entrepreneurship of women and youth.

At the same time, the African Continental Free Trade Area is opening a new era of opportunity — creating a unified market and laying the foundations for sustainable supply chains and shared prosperity across the region.

Yet challenges remain.  Climate change, mounting debt and food and energy insecurity all pose threats to Africa’s growth.

This year’s theme — Transforming Africa’s Economy through Sustainable Industrialization, Regional Integration and Innovation — highlights the urgent need for an industrial future that is both green and digitally connected.

To get there, we must reform the global financial architecture. That means delivering real debt relief, tripling the lending capacity of multilateral development banks and giving developing countries a more meaningful role in the economic institutions that govern their fate.

Sustainable industrialization is vital to unlocking Africa’s full potential and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.

Let us work together to harness creativity, deepen regional ties and ensure that Africa’s growth benefits both people and planet.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Secretary-General.

Source: APO

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“When you are farming, you might get killed. When you are fishing, you might be, too. Even walking isn’t safe.” 

For Peter Olahu, the UN Protection of Civilians (PoC) site in Malakal has become home. 

The 75-year-old teacher still remembers his flourishing city before it suddenly left in ruins when conflict broke out in 2013.

“At first, I remained in town, hoping that things would change. But the situation has just become too unpredictable; there are too many arms in the hands of people who don’t know what to do with them,” he shares, his eyes looking tired from what they have witnessed over the years. 

“There might be things we are lacking here but this place became a point of survival.” 

When the nation-wide security situation began stabilizing after the signing of the Revitalized Peace Agreement in 2018, all similar temporary settlements, but the Malakal protection site, were redesignated as conventional camps for the internally displaced.

Surrounded by a large fence and watchtowers protected by UNMISS peacekeepers, it has become a “safe haven” as the PoC site Chairman Zachariah Deng likes to call it. 

Issues relating to overcrowding and lack of resources remain pressing challenges. However, corresponding solutions are already on the way. 

Following land clearings of previously inhabitable terrain in the area by UNMISS and partners, some people decided to move, while still returning to the site for business on a daily basis. 

“Many people are ready to leave and feel a different type of freedom. They’re tired of feeling like they must be protected,” confirms Mr. Deng, especially referring to those who were born and have never lived outside a protected zone. 

Others, like Mr. Olahu, are ready to stay: “This is my community. Even with challenges persisting, I am proud of what we have created together.” 

Walking through the bustling markets inside the site, it is clear what he is referring to.

Colorful displays of goods, ranging from fresh fish to diverse arrays of fruit and vegetables cover the bumpy roads dividing the six different sections of the site. 

There are small restaurants, convenience stores and even two bands that have formed there and became famous among the estimated 45,000 residents.

This proves what has become a common denominator among communities across South Sudan: if given the right circumstances, they can turn even greatest challenges into opportunities. 

“Things can get hard here sometimes, but we all have something that keeps us going,” explains Mr. Olahu. For him, the children he teaches are everything: 

“Like all of us, these students need a good leader to show them a way forward and inspire them to make good decisions. As long as they’re here, I will stay to teach them.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

Source: APO

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has this morning, Friday 7 November 2025, arrived in Rome, Italy for a working visit to the Holy See.

South Africa and the Holy See have cordial bilateral relations and the visit by President Ramaphosa serves  as an opportunity to discuss a renewed focus on collaboration in humanitarian aid, climate justice, emergency response, and peace building.

The Holy See has diplomatic ties with over 180 countries and observer status at major international bodies like the United Nations and holds significant global influence through its moral, religious, and diplomatic authority.

South Africa and the Holy See have a long history of diplomatic relations that was formally established in 1994. South Africa values the warm and respectful relations it has enjoyed with the Holy See over the years.

The meeting with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV is of particular significance as it represents South Africa’s first high-level engagement with the newly appointed Pontiff. His ascension to the papacy on 8 May 2025 provides an important opportunity to reaffirm and strengthen bilateral relations with the Holy See.

The South African concept of Ubuntu, which emphasises interconnectedness, shared humanity, and humanity towards others, aligns with the Pope’s calls for a more compassionate, loving, peaceful and inclusive global community.

The President is accompanied by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola and daughter, Ms Keneilwe Ramaphosa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Source: APO – Report:

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The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org/) will host a strategic panel on “Scaling Large-Scale Energy & Infrastructure” at the upcoming G20 African Energy Investment Forum in Johannesburg, bringing together financiers, policymakers and developers to explore how to mobilize both public and private capital to drive renewable integration and infrastructure scale-up across the continent.

Africa’s renewable sector is gaining momentum with several landmark developments supporting the case for large‑scale investment. In West Africa, for example, the Gambia River Basin Development Organization, backed by the African Development Bank, is advancing an €880 million regional energy project featuring a 1,677‑km, 225 kV transmission line connecting The Gambia, Guinea, Guinea‑Bissau and Senegal – a move that strengthens regional integration and helps scale large‐scale infrastructure. Elsewhere, broader data show that Africa is managing a surge in record inflows of solar panels and utility‑scale renewable activity in 2025, signaling readiness for the next generation of large projects.

The panel will tackle several critical questions, including how to balance intermittent renewables with reliable baseload generation, storage and smart grid technologies; what models and tools governments can deploy to turn large‑scale energy visions into investable, bankable projects; how regional integration can unlock economies of scale and bolster collective energy security; and how non‑solar clean energies – such as nuclear and geothermal – can be integrated into renewable‑heavy systems to meet net‑zero goals. By convening senior policy‑makers, financiers, developers and grid specialists, the session aims to move beyond dialogue to practical frameworks for scaling investment across Africa’s energy infrastructure.

“Our continent is ready for large‑scale energy infrastructure that delivers not just megawatts but transformation,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “At this session we’ll map how Africa can attract real capital, deploy smart infrastructure and build power systems that match ambition with reality. It ties directly into the G20 agenda relating to infrastructure, access, security and clean growth for Africa’s future.”

As African energy systems enter a new phase of ambition, the upcoming G20 African Energy Investment Forum provides the ideal platform to bring policy, project and finance together. With this session on large‑scale energy and infrastructure, the event highlights Africa’s emergence not just as a passive recipient of global investment, but as a frontier of integrated, resilient energy systems ready for the scale and speed that the 2025‑30 investment cycle demands.

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

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Source: APO – Report:

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As the G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum fast-approaches, major African oil and gas producers such as Nigeria are gearing up to bring their strategic energy agendas to a global audience. Nigeria’s Special Advisor to President Bola Tinubu on Energy Olu Verheijen has joined the forum – taking place November 21 in Johannesburg – where she is expected to share insight into how the country’s recent slate of reforms is not only attracting foreign investment into the energy value chain but are positioning Nigeria as a benchmark for African nations as they pursue a hydrocarbon-driven energy transition.

As one of the continent’s biggest oil and gas producers, Nigeria has been realigning policy with the aim of accelerating exploration, reversing production decline and unlocking greater value from both onshore and offshore hydrocarbon basins. Recent reforms include the introduction of the “Upstream Petroleum Operations” (Cost Efficiency Incentives) Order this year, offering performance-based tax credits to oil and gas companies that achieve cost-reduction targets. The policy aims to lower operational costs, enhance the sector’s attractiveness while attracting investment into upstream projects. It also follows the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in 2021, which overhauled sector governance, unbundled the Nigerian National Petroleum Company into a commercially-oriented entity and established a modernized regulatory framework to attract capital and foster sustainable growth.

The impact of these reforms has already been evident. Since the enactment of the PIA, Nigeria has catalyzed over $17 billion in foreign direct investment into its oil and gas industry, reflecting renewed global confidence in the market. The country has also witnessed a surge in spending from active operators, including a $1.5 billion investment by ExxonMobil to revitalize its Usan deepwater oilfield; $5 billion FID reached for Shell’s Bonga North Deepwater Development; and a $550 million investment by TotalEnergies to develop a gas processing facility. These investments follow a series of merger and acquisitions in 2024, with the country attracting $6.7 billion in investments throughout the year, driven by acquisitions by Seplat, Chappal Energies and Oando. These developments are aligned with Nigeria’s broader goal to increase production upwards of two million barrels per day.

Nigeria’s energy strategy transcends the oil industry, showcasing a diverse and multi-faceted development approach that considers all forms of energy. Part of its National Energy Transition Plan – which aims to advance low-carbon and sustainable energy projects – the country has set a goal to increase gas production to 12 billion cubic feet per day by 2030 and is seeking $60 billion over the next five to seven years to strengthen the gas value chain. With over 200 trillion cubic feet of proven gas reserves, Nigeria’s gas sector has become a key priority for the nation’s development agenda.

In the renewable energy sector, the country has established a ’30-30-30’ plan, targeting 30 GW of grid-connected power capacity by 2030, 30% of which will be derived from renewable energy sources. The plan comes as the country pursues net-zero by 2060 and is expected to contribute towards its goal of achieving universal access to electricity. Various projects have been launched to realize this goal. Oando Clean Energy is developing a 1.2 GW solar farm in Jigawa; the World Bank is backing the $750 million Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up project, set to provide power to over 17.5 million Nigerians; while the Rural Electrification Agency of Nigeria has signed agreements with 10 companies for the generation of 948 MW of electricity. These developments are not only set to strengthen the country’s power capacity but create thousands of jobs and support local business development.

“Nigeria’s energy reforms are setting a powerful precedent for what African-led policy can achieve. By fostering transparency, incentivizing investment and prioritizing both hydrocarbons and renewables, Nigeria is showing that energy security and transition are not competing goals; they are complementary drivers of growth,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

Nigeria’s multi-faceted energy strategy aligns closely with the upcoming forum, which aims to promote an Africa-centric approach to the energy transition. Recognizing the continent’s vital need to power and industrialize its economies, the G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum will offer a bridge between global capital and African projects, tackling key topics such as the role of natural gas, the value of integrated energy systems and how African oil producers can drive the continent’s energy transition. 

To register for the Forum, click here (https://apo-opa.co/43Tsxht).

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.