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Eskom deepens foray into EV market with BYD Auto pact

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, September 18, 2025

Fresh off the introduction of its first electric vehicle (EV) fleet, Eskom has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with BYD Auto South Africa to support South Africa’s growing EV ecosystem.

The MoC – dubbed a “Bold step in South Africa’s move toward cleaner mobility” by Eskom – will pave way for the support of the BYD Dolphin Surf Electric Vehicle and expand charging infrastructure for all South Africans.

“Having successfully rolled out EVs within our fleet on 9 September 2025, we are ready to enable wider adoption by bringing practical and accessible charging infrastructure to South Africans.

“Eskom is driving into a cleaner future, not only through our investments in renewable energy and sustainable technologies, but also by enabling affordable and innovative mobility solutions for South Africans,” Eskom Group Executive for Distribution, Agnes Mlambo said.

READ | Changing gear: Eskom introduces first electric vehicle fleet

The MoC provides the two parties room to explore:

  • Supporting South Africa’s national drive to de-carbonise transport and position the country as a hub for EV adoption.
  • The potential expansion of public charging infrastructure in key locations nationwide.
  • Opportunities for local skills development, SMME participation, and job creation in the growing EV ecosystem.

“Future discussions may also consider renewable-powered ultra-fast charging hubs, recycling and repurposing used EV batteries for energy storage and backup systems, and integrating EVs into Eskom’s demand-side management strategies to help balance electricity supply and demand.

“Eskom remains committed to delivering reliable energy today, while executing its business strategy of shaping a cleaner, smarter, and more inclusive energy future for generations to come,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Kubayi orders legislative amendments to make sex offenders register accessible

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has directed her department to attend to the necessary legislative amendments that will allow the National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO) to be generally accessible to the public.

The Minister announced the decision during her oral replies to the National Assembly on Wednesday. 

Kubayi explained that earlier this year, the Office of the Chief State Law Advisor (OCSLA) advised that the register could not yet be made publicly available, as Section 52 of the  Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act prohibits and criminalises its publication “except for the purpose of giving effect to the provisions of the Act; or when required to do so by any competent court”.

“Further clarity was sought from OCSLA on whether or not the Minister has the power, in terms of Chapter 6 of the Act, to publish the NRSO in the Government Gazette, or any other manner.

“The legal opinion concluded that there must be a law of general application that authorises the limitation of the guaranteed rights of persons whose names have been entered in the Registers, by publishing the Registers,” Kubayi said.

Based on this, the Minister has directed the department to draft the necessary legislative amendments to allow the register to be accessible.

The Minister assured that government remains committed to “safeguarding children and vulnerable persons by ensuring the NRSO is accessible in a lawful and responsible manner”.

“While doing so and as part of the Minister’s commitment to ensuring a phased and responsible access to the Register, the department is also prioritising providing swift and responsible access for institutions that work with vulnerable groups, such as schools, daycare centres and care facilities to support their vetting processes.

“To achieve this, there is an intention to create more capacity in the Registrar’s office, including in the various provinces to process applications efficiently and expeditiously,” she said.

The Justice Department will also engage with the Departments of Basic Education, Police, Higher Education and Training, and other key stakeholders to “understand the full extent of the issues and provide feedback on these matters, in particular the interventions that are being put in place”.

The Minister said a draft amendment bill has been prepared and is currently undergoing internal consultation. 

“Furthermore, consultations will be undertaken with experts, including the Information Regulator  of South Africa, regarding the accessibility of the Register. Once this consultation has been concluded, the Bill will then be subjected to the parliamentary processes,” Kubayi said. – SAnews.gov.za

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SASSA beneficiaries take up biometric enrolment campaign

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, September 18, 2025

More than 42 000 clients have been enrolled at 432 South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) local offices across the country since the launch of the Beneficiary Biometric Enrolment (BBE) rollout just over two weeks ago. 

This is according to the SASSA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Themba Matlou, who, along with the Minister of Social Development, Sisisi Tolashe, briefed the Portfolio Committee on Social Development on the recently introduced Beneficiary Biometric Enrollment on Wednesday.

SASSA introduced a massive rollout of the BBE in all its local offices across the country to enhance the integrity in the social grants system, while also detecting and curbing all fraudulent elements. 

Briefing members of the Portfolio Committee, Matlou gave a progress report on the status of BBE since its introduction at the beginning of September 2025. 

Matlou emphasised that this number includes new applicants, people undergoing reviews and those coming to SASSA offices to change their personal details.  

He commended the progress made to date, saying while it came with its own challenges, all the offices were capacitated, and SASSA had prepared thoroughly for any eventuality. 

“Challenges will always come when you implement a new system but we are on top of our game and we are doing proactive monitoring and analysis to ensure the optimal implementation that will stand the test of time. As we introduce these new systems, we do so with our clients in mind so that we do not inconvenience them in any way”, he said. 

In addition, Matlou acknowledged that there were teething problems initially but the daily monitoring and additional training of officials has come in handy. He said officials are gaining more knowledge and confidence as they continue to use the system. 

Biometric enrolment is a strategic move to ensure every grant recipient is verifiably authentic and that SASSA’s systems are resilient against manipulation and error, especially in cases involving forged green Identity Documents that frontline staff cannot reliably detect. 

In addition, the biometric enrolment will ensure: 

  • Significant reduction in fraudulent applications and duplicate payments.
  • Reliable verification of beneficiary authenticity and proof of life.
  • Reduction in inclusion errors.
  • Streamlined documentation processes.
  • Enhanced audit outcomes and stronger record integrity.
  • Improved public trust in the Social Assistance Programme.

For grant enquiries, beneficiaries are urged to visit www.sassa.gov.za or call our toll-free number: 0800 60 1011 or GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

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Nigeria Mining Week to celebrate industry journey of “progress to global relevance” in October in Abuja

Source: APO


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The upcoming Nigeria Mining Week conference and expo will celebrate the country’s mining legacy as well as its burgeoning potential when it returns to Abuja from 13 to 15 October. The event organisers have announced the theme of this year’s edition, which is the 10th anniversary of the event. The theme is: “Nigeria Mining: From Progress to Global Relevance.”

“This theme captures both our achievements and our aspirations,” says Engr. Faruk Yusuf Yabo, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development. “Over the past ten years, Nigeria Mining Week has grown from a modest industry gathering into a flagship platform that convenes government, investors, operators and development partners. As we enter the next decade, our focus is clear: to scale up the industry, ensure sustainability, drive value addition, and firmly position Nigeria as a globally relevant mining hub.”

Nigeria ready for responsible mining

The event is hosted by Ministry of Solid Mineral Development of Nigeria and organised by Miners Association of Nigeria, in partnership with PwC Nigeria and VUKA Group.

“The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development is proud to serve as the host ministry of this event,” says the Permanent Secretary. “This is not just symbolic—it reflects the government’s commitment to making mining a central pillar of Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda, and identified the mining sector as one of the sectors to drive the diversification of our economy away from oil.”

He adds: “With our rich mineral endowment, Nigeria is ready for responsible and profitable mining investment. Our legal frameworks are being strengthened, our licensing processes are being streamlined, and we are deepening partnerships to ensure that investors find both security and sustainability in our mining environment.”

MAN: Strength in collaboration

“At MAN, we firmly believe that the strength of our sector lies in collaboration,” says Dele Ayanleke, President of the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN). “Our partnership with the ministry, investors, sponsors, and industry stakeholders has been instrumental in shaping policies, improving operational standards, and building trust in the sector.”

He adds: “During this edition of Nigeria Mining Week, we will further engage in initiatives that promote investment, enhance safety, support artisanal and small-scale miners, and drive compliance with global best practices. I call upon all stakeholders—government agencies, investors, mining operators, sponsors, partners, service providers, and the media—to actively participate in this milestone edition.”

PWC Nigeria: Excited about opportunities

“Over the past decade, Nigeria Mining Week has served as the foremost platform for shaping the conversation on Nigeria’s mining sector—driving dialogue, building consensus, and crafting solutions that position mining as a true engine of shared prosperity for all Nigerians,” says Habeeb Jaiyeola, Partner and Head, Mining Sector, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Nigeria.

He continues: “The mining sector is vital to Nigeria’s strategic goal of economic diversification and reducing dependence on oil. We commend the government for prioritising this sector and are excited about the promising opportunities it presents.”

“Improve, excel and exceed expectations”

“Along with our event partners, it has been an honour but also a responsibility to host Nigeria Mining Week for the last decade,” says VUKA Group Event Director for Mining Samukelo Madlabane.

He adds: “However, it is a responsibility we take very seriously. Since the inaugural event, we have never stopped trying to improve, excel and exceed expectations by continuing to bring innovative, forward-thinking, and interactive programmes to maximise sharing, dealmaking, and networking between our attendees. It has continued to be a gathering where bold ideas, strategic partnerships, and sustainable innovation come together to shape a new era of growth. This year will be no different.”

Industry support

From 13 to 15 October, Nigeria Mining Week once again will showcase dozens of exciting mining and extractive projects in the country. The event is also expected to gather attendees from more than 20 countries, including more than 2,300 mining professionals, around 90 sponsors and exhibitors, some 180 mining operators and in excess of 137 expert speakers and VIPs.

Over the last decade, Nigeria Mining Week has become thé gathering place for many leading mining bosses and suppliers, many of whom have become longstanding partners and sponsors for the Abuja gathering. Titan Minerals Ltd is returning as the diamond plus sponsor; KMDC, Mikano Motors, Sinogrand and Xugong Nigeria Company Ltd are diamond sponsors; and SMT Nigeria is back as a platinum sponsor.

Nigeria Mining Week event dates and location:
Dates: 13–15 October 2025
Location: Abuja Continental Hotel – Meetings & Conferences (https://apo-opa.co/3ItaR4L)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

Media contact:
Nazeerah Solomon
Marketing Specialist – Mining
VUKA Group 
T: +27 (0) 21 700 3515 
E: nazeerah.solomon@wearevuka.com 

Social Media:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3K72r3D
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4mljlZy
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/3Ihh8R8
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4gpuFCA

About Nigeria Mining Week:
Nigeria Mining Week is organised by the Vuka Group (formerly Clarion Events Africa), a leading Cape Town-based and multi-award-winning organiser of exhibitions, conferences and digital events across the continent in the infrastructure, sustainability, energy, mining, mobility, ecommerce and CX sectors. Other well-known events by The Vuka Group include DRC Mining Week (https://apo-opa.co/3VVYrp8), DRC-Africa Battery Metals Forum (https://apo-opa.co/4guErUd), Enlit Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4guEsHL), Africa’s Green Economy Summit (https://apo-opa.co/4prBCqP), Smarter Mobility Africa (https://apo-opa.co/46Heo8O), ECOM Africa (https://apo-opa.co/3It4CxS) and CEM Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4mkxBle).

​Website: https://www.NigeriaMiningWeek.com

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Propartners Secures Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Ghana Licenses to Operate as Crowdfunding Intermediary and Platform

Source: APO

Propartners (https://Propartners.com.gh) is proud to announce that it has secured separate licenses from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Ghana to operate as a Crowdfunding Intermediary and a Crowdfunding Platform.

This milestone positions Propartners as one of the pioneering firms in Ghana’s investment crowdfunding space, opening new opportunities for entrepreneurs, small businesses, and investors alike.

With these licenses, Propartners is fully authorized to:

• Facilitate fundraising for Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) and Startups through compliant, regulated structures.

• Operate a trusted crowdfunding platform that connects businesses with investors.

• Provide investment opportunities that are transparent, accessible, and aligned with Ghana’s regulatory framework.

Speaking on this achievement, Mr. Wisdom Anku, CEO of Propartners, said:

“This is a major step forward, not just for Propartners, but for the entire entrepreneurial and investment ecosystem in Ghana. Our dual licenses from SEC Ghana affirm our commitment to building a credible, secure, and innovative crowdfunding marketplace where businesses can access the capital they need and investors can discover vetted opportunities.

It is important to state that, two major shifts are in sight. First, the closing of the small business funding gap and two, the democratization of high-value investing”

The SEC’s regulatory framework for crowdfunding is designed to deepen Ghana’s capital markets, broaden financial inclusion, and empower local enterprises to thrive. By securing both intermediary and platform licenses, Propartners is uniquely positioned to deliver end-to-end crowdfunding services — from structuring offerings to providing a technology platform that ensures compliance and investor protection.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Propartners Exchange Limited.

Media Contact:
Pelly Keli
pelly.keli@propartners.com.gh
+233(0)245711223

Important links:
Website – https://Propartners.com.gh
Blog – https://apo-opa.co/3IupcxQ
Newsroom – https://apo-opa.co/46lX1sR

Social Media:
Facebook – https://apo-opa.co/47UezyV
LinkedIn – https://apo-opa.co/4mopO6b
Instagram – https://apo-opa.co/4msTpLL
YouTube – https://apo-opa.co/46sgIiI

About Propartners:
Propartners is a financial intermediary and business support services provider incorporated in 2016. Propartners is committed to building bigger, stronger and better businesses to create employment and wealth in Ghana and across Africa. The company promotes partnerships in the MSME sector with unique solutions offered, including alternative investment and alternative capital services. Propartners operates investment crowdfunding and equity partnership platforms to connect viable MSMEs to institutional and retail investors. With expertise in capital raising, investment structuring, and business growth solutions, Propartners is devoted to empowering entrepreneurs and driving sustainable economic development.

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2 Weeks to Go: African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 Gears Up as Africa’s Premier Dealmaking Platform

Source: APO

Africa’s largest energy event – African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies – will make its return from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town, offering a strategic platform for companies to invest, partner and drive African energy projects forward. With just two weeks to go, the event is preparing to welcome international and regional stakeholders for its most ambitious edition yet, with over 7,000 delegates making their way to Cape Town for a week of dialogue and deals.  

AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 returns at a critical time for the African energy sector. Driven by urbanization and accelerated economic growth, African energy demand is projected to increased significantly in the coming years. In response, countries are undertaking ambitious reforms with a view to secure fresh capital and create reliable energy systems across the continent. Global investors and project developers have begun to scale-up their spending, with oil and gas capital expenditure alone set to reach $54 billion in 2030. Investments in renewable energy and infrastructure are also increasing. However, with Africa requiring up to $240 billion in annual energy investments to meet its energy and climate goals, a lot more needs to be done from an investment side.  

Stepping into this picture, AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 emerges as a premier platform to sign deals, advance investments and drive Africa’s energy goals. Offering an expanded program encompassing five primary tracks as well as technical stages, the event covers the entire energy sector and its value chain. The AEW Townhall convenes African heads of state, ministers and CEOs to set the agenda for the continent’s energy future; the Upstream E&P Stage offers a dynamic platform for exploration, production and licensing; while the Energy Finance Stage connects projects with capital, uniting banks, private equity and institutional investors with operators and developers. Additionally, the Energy Transition Stage will showcase how gas, renewable energy and hydrogen complement oil production to deliver sustainable growth, while the Powering Africa Stage will address the urgent need to expand electricity access for over 600 million Africans.  

These programs will encompass a diverse offering, from panel discussions to roundtables to country spotlights and on-stage interviews. Discussions will be led by industry leaders and government, including the Presidents of Algeria, Central Africa Republic, Nigeria and Zimbabwe, while ministerial delegations from over 30 countries are participating. Global partners such as the European Union, the US, the UAE, China, Australia, Brazil, Russia, Canada, the UK and many more have joined, underscoring the role the event plays as a global meeting forum.   

The program will feature keynote addresses, ministerial panels, investor forums and technical sessions, with executives from bp, TotalEnergies, Eni, Chevron, ExxonMobil, Woodside Energy, Kosmos Energy and a growing cohort of African independents. Alongside industry leaders, financiers, investment funds and DFIs will explore innovative capital solutions to accelerate project delivery. Beyond the boardroom, AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 will also host the African Energy Awards & Gala Dinner, the Just Energy Transition Concert and a full suite of networking events, investor briefings and one-on-one meetings. These functions are designed to transform conversations into concrete projects and deals.  

“AEW: Invest in African Energies has established itself as the official meeting place for the African – and global – energy sector. By uniting policymakers, investors and operators under one roof, the event will drive measurable outcomes – new projects, fresh partnerships and landmark deals that will reshape Africa’s energy map. AEW: Invest in African Energies has transformed itself from a conference into a movement,” states Tomás Gerbasio, VP Commercial and Strategic Engagement, African Energy Chamber. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

About AEW:
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.  

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Lamola concludes working visit to Los Angeles

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, has successfully concluded a working visit to Los Angeles, California, in the United States. 

Lamola’s visit is part of South Africa’s commitment to proactive economic diplomacy aimed at actively building strategic partnerships.

“The visit powerfully showcased South Africa’s dynamic film, music and arts sectors, leveraging Los Angeles’s creative leadership to position the nation as a premier destination for international co-productions and cultural exchange,” the department said in a statement. 

During his visit, Lamola also met with influential South African diaspora members and leaders in Los Angeles. 

“This vital community, comprising executives, academics, entrepreneurs, and creatives, represents an underutilised cultural diplomatic asset. Mobilising this diaspora amplifies South Africa’s ‘soft power,’ strengthens its global brand, and fosters invaluable business linkages.” 

The department also reported that Lamola had successful meetings with Los Angeles City Mayor Karen Bass, and the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC). 

The department said these discussions were essential for South Africa’s efforts to enhance public-private partnerships in areas of shared interest.

“A core objective was to promote South Africa as an attractive investment destination aggressively.” 

The Minister highlighted various investment opportunities in renewable energy, technology, and tourism that align with California’s innovation-driven and sustainability-focused agenda.

The visit concluded with an outreach event at the Los Angeles World Affairs Council and Town Hall. 

The department stated that Lamola took this opportunity to emphasise that South Africa’s foreign policy is driven by its national interests.

This includes addressing poverty, unemployment, and inequality, which must support the advancement of global democracy, adherence to international law, and multilateralism, as well as the pursuit of international peace.

“Minister Lamola now looks forward to New York for the United Nations General Assembly, where he will meet with like-minded nations to bring attention to pressing global matters,” the department added. – SAnews.gov.za

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Historic Douglas Weir honoured with Global irrigation award

Source: Government of South Africa

As part of Heritage Month celebrations, Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina will today hand over the prestigious World Heritage Irrigation Structure (WHIS) Award to the Orange-Vaal Water Users Association in Siyancuma Local Municipality, ZF Mgcawu District, Northern Cape.

The WHIS award, conferred by the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID), recognises irrigation structures of cultural, historical, and technological significance.

The 134-year-old Douglas Weir, located at the confluence of the Vaal and Orange rivers, was honoured by the ICID last September at its 9th Asian Regional Conference in Sydney, Australia.

The nomination was submitted by the South African National Committee on Irrigation and Drainage (SANCID), and the award was accepted by ICID Vice-President and SANCID Chairperson, Professor Sylvester Mpandeli.

Since then, the Douglas Weir has been included in the ICID Register of World Heritage Structures.

“This is the first time that a South African irrigation structure has received the award since the inception of the WHIS recognition category in 2012. The award will be officially handed to the Orange-Vaal Water Users Association responsible for managing the infrastructure.,” the department said in a statement on Wednesday.

Following the award handover, the Minister will officially open the refurbished Douglas Water Treatment Works (WTW).

The WTW serves as raw water abstraction supply points for water purification and supply to Douglas and surrounding communities.

The R28 million project involved the refurbishment of the ageing water purification plant, which had exceeded its 30-year design lifespan, and included general rehabilitation, the installation of a 200KVA (Kilovolt-Ampere) emergency generator, and expanded treatment capacity.

“The plant will filter a total capacity of 4 273 cubic metres per day of purified water to the population of 22 180 persons residing in 4 704 households within the area of Douglas,” the department said.

After the handover ceremonies, the Minister will engage with local residents and conduct an oversight visit at Douglas Weir.

The Minister will be joined by Water Research Commission Chairperson, Dr Rethabile Melamu, and Orange-Vaal Water Users Association CEO, Peter Joseph. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Minister of State at Ministry of Foreign Affairs Meets ICC Deputy Prosecutor

Source: Government of Qatar

The Hague, September 17, 2025

HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi met Wednesday in The Hague with HE Deputy Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) Nazhat Shameem Khan.
The talks addressed the Israeli assault on Qatar, which took place on September 9, in the context of international criminal law, where such acts constitute punishable offenses.
HE Al Khulaifi heads the legal team appointed by the Cabinet to pursue legal action against the attack that targeted residences of Hamas negotiators, resulting in fatalities and injuries.
His Excellency reaffirmed Qatar’s unwavering commitment to international law and its firm determination to defend its rights through all legitimate legal avenues.

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Minister of State at Ministry of Foreign Affairs Meets ICC President

Source: Government of Qatar

The Hague, September 17, 2025

HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, who heads the legal team assigned by the Cabinet to pursue legal action against the Israeli aggression on the State of Qatar, met Wednesday in The Hague with HE President of the International Criminal Court (ICC) Judge Tomoko Akane.
Discussions centered on the facts of the Israeli attack on Qatari territory on September 9, considered crimes punishable under international criminal law, as well as on mechanisms for international criminal accountability under the auspices of the Court.
HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed that the treacherous Israeli attack on the State of Qatar constituted a flagrant violation of its sovereignty.