Category: English

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Oregen Energy Strengthens Orange Basin Position as Namibia Emerges as Africa’s Oil Frontier

Source: APO


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Namibia’s Orange Basin has become one of the most closely watched oil frontiers in the world, with large-scale discoveries by Galp, TotalEnergies and Shell pointing to billions of barrels of recoverable resources. As international operators move toward appraisal and development, Oregen Energy is expanding its footprint in the basin, offering investors early exposure to one of Africa’s most prolific plays.

Oregen Energy recently announced it had increased its ownership in WestOil Limited to 48.5%, giving the company a 33.95% indirect working interest in Block 2712A – a 5,484 km² license strategically located in the heart of the Orange Basin and adjacent to acreage held by Pan Continental and Chevron. The move, tied to a $3.65 million brokered financing and its approval to list on the Canadian Securities Exchange, underscores Oregen’s strategy of building a meaningful position in Namibia’s offshore.

The company is advancing a clear exploration roadmap for Block 2712A, includin11g an independent technical report, a 3D seismic acquisition campaign planned for late 2025/early 2026, and a farm-out process in 2026 designed to bring in a supermajor partner ahead of targeted drilling in 2027. Oregen’s business model emphasizes acquiring large working interests in deepwater licenses, de-risking them through seismic acquisition and farming out to major operators with capital and technical depth.

“Namibia’s recent discoveries are rewriting the map of African oil and gas. The entrance of new investors into blocks like 2712A shows growing confidence in the country’s energy future, and it positions Namibia alongside industry leaders as the Orange Basin enters its next phase of growth,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.

Bolstering its strategy, Oregen has welcomed a team of seasoned industry veterans: Adrian Goodisman, a petroleum engineer with decades of oil and gas banking experience; Tim O’Hanlon, co-founder of Tullow Oil and an authority on African E&P; Mason Granger, a five-time TopGun Investment Mind; and Michael Humphries, a veteran of Rothschild and Rand Merchant Bank. This leadership bench, combined with a high-potential asset base, gives the company an edge in executing its growth plans.

As a sponsor of this year’s AEW: Invest in African Energies in Cape Town, Oregen Energy will showcase its Orange Basin strategy and engage with regional and international stakeholders. The event will provide a platform for highlighting Namibia’s transformative potential as it moves from frontier exploration to emerging producer – and for Oregen to demonstrate how early-stage players can help drive that transition.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Minister of State at Ministry of Foreign Affairs Meets Dutch Foreign Minister

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 Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands David van Weel.
The meeting reviewed bilateral cooperation relations and ways to strengthen and promote, in addition to the latest regional developments, particularly the treacherous Israeli attack that targeted Doha.
HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed that the State of Qatar will take all necessary measures to safeguard its security and preserve its sovereignty.
For his part, HE the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated his country’s solidarity with the State of Qatar, stressing that the Israeli attack constituted a violation of Qatar sovereignty and international law. 

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HRC60: Qatar Reiterates Condemnation of Israeli Attack, Urges Accountability and Mediation Support

Source: Government of Qatar

Geneva, September 16, 2025

The State of Qatar participated Tuesday in an emergency session within the 60th United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC60), regarding the treacherous Israeli assault that targeted Doha.
The Qatari delegation to the session was headed by HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad.
In Qatar’s statement during the session – joined by over 75 countries – Her Excellency extended genuine thanks to the Human Rights Council for its swift response in convening this emergency session. She noted that scu a response reflects the Council’s pivotal role in safeguarding human rights and promoting international peace and security.
She also praised the positions of member states that supported the convening of this session during this critical time.
Her Excellency stated that the September 9 attack targeted a densely populated civilian area in the heart of the capital, Doha, near diplomatic missions, schools, kindergartens, and mosques – an area home to about five thousand people, including Qatari families as well as families of residents, children, and women, she added.
She explained that this attack resulted in martyrs and injuries, including the martyr Corporal Badr Saad Al-Dosari, 22, and 18 wounded. This is not only a blatant violation of the sovereignty of the State of Qatar and the integrity of its territory, but also a grave breach of fundamental human rights, the right to life, security, and the protection of children and education, as enshrined in international covenants, primarily the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
HE the Minister stressed that this attack constitutes a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law by targeting a purely civilian area, and represents an assault on a fully-fledged member state of the United Nations, amounting to state terrorism and posing a direct threat to regional and international peace and security.
She added that what makes the crime even more dangerous is that it targeted a state playing a mediating role in coordination with the United States and the Arab Republic of Egypt to reach a ceasefire in Gaza. Targeting the mediating state is an attack on the principle of negotiation itself and a deliberate sabotage of peace efforts.
Her Excellency explained that Qatari mediation had previously contributed to tangible results, including the safe release of 135 hostages, which restored reassurance to hundreds of Israeli families.
Qatar also played a prominent role in achieving the truce agreement that gave civilians in Gaza a chance to breathe, and the humanitarian mediation allowed the entry of food aid for children suffering from starvation and bombardment, deprived of their most basic rights.
Her Excellency noted that these experiences confirm that Qatari mediation was never a symbolic act, but a genuine practice that saved lives, restored rights, and instilled hope in the possibility of reaching peaceful solutions to conflicts. Therefore, targeting the mediating state not only undermines the negotiation process but also diminishes the chances of saving more lives and achieving peace.
HE the Minister stated that this attack was not an isolated incident, but part of a broader campaign aimed at distorting Qatar’s role and obstructing its diplomatic efforts. This was confirmed by statements from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who clearly announced continued threats to other countries, in a dangerous escalation that threatens to drag the region and the world into systematic violations of international law. She pointed out that what happened in Doha could be repeated in any other capital if the international community does not act responsibly.
Regarding the Arab, Islamic, and international stance through the Security Council meeting, Her Excellency referred to the Emergency Arab-Islamic summit held in Doha, which unanimously condemned the brutal aggression and rejected any attempt to justify it.
The summit considered it a blatant violation of international law and the United Nations Charter, reaffirmed the concept of collective security and shared destiny, and emphasized that international legitimacy and UN resolutions are the fundamental reference for achieving security and peace.
Unfortunately, Her Excellency continued, peoples have become accustomed to news of death, attacks, and starvation surrounding the world today. She further questioned what the world is waiting for if humanity fails to stop hostility, hatred, and violence through international treaties.
Her Excellency underscored that if the rule of law is absent, the logic of force prevails at the expense of justice, and the world turns into a battlefield without controls, eroding trust in laws, treaties, and mechanisms. Therefore, she added, the world relies on the HRC to activate its international mechanisms and ensure that aggressors do not escape punishment, preserving the dignity of the law and the humanity of individuals.
HE the Minister of State for International Cooperation emphasized that the State of Qatar reaffirms its unequivocal condemnation of the treacherous Israeli aggression and its resulting targeting of civilians and blatant violation of international law, calling on the Human Rights Council and the international community to take practical steps to hold the aggressors accountable and prevent their impunity, warned of the danger of targeting mediating states and considered it a precedent that threatens negotiation and peace efforts, and stressed the need to explore international mechanisms to protect the role of mediation.
She also renewed Qatar’s commitment to the path of mediation and working for peace, despite this aggression, stemming from its moral and legal duty.
Her Excellency affirmed that the State of Qatar is confident that the Human Rights Council will not accept any violation of human rights principles and will not tolerate this grave violation. The Council prioritizes the protection of international law for the sake of stability and safeguarding the role of mediation as a key tool to end conflicts and ensure that peoples enjoy their rights and freedoms in security and peace. 

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KCB and Afreximbank in Joint Funding Deal to Operationalize Vipingo Special Economic Zone (SEZ)

Source: APO – Report:

KCB Group and pan-African multilateral development bank, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) have entered a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at providing financial and trade facilitation support to investors operating in the Vipingo Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Kilifi County.

Under the agreement, Afreximbank and KCB Group will provide initial funding amounting to US$ 500 million and US$ 300 million, respectively towards the initiative.

The announcement was made during the Arise Integrated Industrial Platforms (Arise IIP) – Kenya Investment Forum 2025 where business leaders converged to deliberate on how to position Kenya as a preferred investment destination.

Under the framework, prospective investors will benefit from competitive financing solutions to establish operations within the SEZ, with a focus on manufacturing, agro-processing, logistics, and value-addition enterprises.

By combining resources, expertise, and networks, KCB and Afreximbank will empower both local and international investors to enjoy tailored financing solutions, including working capital facilities, project finance, trade financing, project preparation facility, guarantees and advisory support among others.

Speaking during the signing ceremony on September 16, 2025, in Vipingo, KCB Group CEO, Paul Russo said, “This agreement marks a significant step in our mission to catalyse sustainable industrial growth in Kenya and across the region. We are delighted to elevate Vipingo SEZ as a gateway to transforming, creating and sustaining an environment in which export-oriented industries can thrive, by leveraging economies of scale, shared infrastructure and access to global markets.”

The Vipingo SEZ is one of Kenya’s flagship projects under the Special Economic Zones Authority (SEZA), envisioned as a catalyst for attracting investment and spurring regional development. By channeling affordable capital into the zone, the partnership between KCB and Afreximbank is expected to unlock critical infrastructure, strengthen export-oriented industries, and position Kilifi as a magnet for both domestic and foreign direct investment.

On her part, Afreximbank’s Managing Director, Export Development, Ms. Oluranti Doherty noted: “Afreximbank’s mandate is to promote and expand African trade, and this partnership with KCB is a concrete demonstration of that commitment. Special Economic Zones are powerful engines for industrialization, export growth, and economic diversification. Through this financing framework, we will not only enable enterprises to scale but also support the creation of sustainable supply chains that uplift local communities and drive regional integration.”

Mr. Russo signed on behalf of KCB Group, Ms. Doherty for Afreximbank and Mr. George Olaka, CEO Arise IIP-Kenya signed for his organistion. The ceremony was witnessed by H.E. Dr. William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank and Mr. Gagan Gupta, Founder and CEO of ARISE IIP.

The agreement underscores the role of strategic partnerships in bridging Africa’s financing gap while enabling the private sector to play a transformative role in sustainable development. The funding to Vipingo SEZ is under the Afreximbank’s US$ 3 Billion Country Programme to Kenya signed in May 2023 to support the development of various sectors of its economy, with a special focus on industrial development, namely the Naivasha Industrial Park, Dongo Kundu Industrial Park and now the Vipingo SEZ. Afreximbank disbursed US$ 40 million in funding to facilitate the development of  the Vipingo Special Economic Zone (SEZ) with a further commitment of US$ 500 million to support individual investors setting up operations within the Zone.

– on behalf of Afreximbank.

Media Contacts:
Peter Mwaura Kimani
Head of Corporate & Stakeholder Relations
Email: pmkimani@kcbgroup.com

KCB Group Plc
Kencom House
P. O. Box 48400 – 00100
Nairobi, Kenya
Tel: +254 20 3270000 / 2851000 / 2852000
Mobile: +254 711 012 000 / 734 108 200
SMS: 22522
Email: contactus@kcbgroup.com

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

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About KCB Group PLC:
KCB Group Plc is East Africa’s largest commercial Bank and was established in 1896. The Group is headquartered in Kenya, with the country serving as the lead market with two banking subsidiaries namely KCB Bank Kenya and National Bank of Kenya. Over the years, the Bank has grown and spread its wings into Tanzania, South Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Our subsidiaries KCB Bank Kenya and Trust Merchant Bank (TMB) also have representative offices in Ethiopia and Brussels, respectively. Additionally, KCB Group owns KCB Bancassurance Intermediary Limited, KCB Investment Bank, KCB Asset Management, KCB Foundation and Kencom House Limited as non-banking businesses. Today KCB has the largest branch network in the region with 538 branches, 1,319 ATMs and over 1.3 million merchants and agents offering banking services on a 24/7 basis in East Africa. This is complemented by mobile banking and internet banking services with 24-hour contact center services for our customers to get in touch with the Bank. KCB has a vast network of correspondent relationships totaling over 200 banks across the globe, and our customers are assured of a seamless facilitation of their international trade requirements wherever they are.

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

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

About ARISE IIP:
ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP) is a Dubai-headquartered pan-African infrastructure developer and operator driving the creation of sustainable industrial ecosystems. Active in more than 14 countries, ARISE IIP designs, finances, builds, and operates bespoke industrial zones that strengthen local value chains, promote exports, and generate long-term employment.

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Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) meets Maldives First Lady & 13 First Ladies of Africa at 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit to discuss their joint programs to transform patient care landscape and address critical social and health issues

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 recently. It was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation & President of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative and H.E. Madam SAJIDHA MOHAMED, First Lady of the Republic of Maldives and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” along with First Ladies of Angola, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Mozambique, Nigeria, São Tomé & Príncipe, Senegal, and Zimbabwe.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej expressed, “I was a pleasure meeting my dear sister, H.E. Madam SAJIDHA MOHAMED, First Lady of the Republic of Maldives and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” for the 7th Edition of our Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit. I also visited Maldives recently to meet her. During our meeting

we discussed our joint programs and underscored our commitment towards building healthcare capacity and transforming patient care landscape by providing scholarships for local doctors. We have already started to enroll doctors for Fertility and Embryology trainings”.

H.E. Madam SAJIDHA MOHAMED, First Lady of the Republic of Maldives, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” emphasized, “I am very proud of our partnership with Merck Foundation. I am happy to share that we have already started providing scholarships for our local doctors in Fertility and Embryology training. These are two very critical specialties for our country. We also plan to enroll our doctors in other specialties, further underscoring our partnership with the Merck Foundation to enhance healthcare capacity in the country.”

Watch the Speech of The First Lady of Maldives & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother during the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/47O0hzM

Watch the video of Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej receiving H.E. Madam SAJIDHA MOHAMED, First Lady of the Republic of Maldives, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”:  https://apo-opa.co/4ndekne

On day 2 of the Summit, Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative- MFFLI committee meeting was conducted between The First Ladies of Africa and Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, where the African and Asian First Ladies shared the impact report of Merck Foundation programs in their respective countries, and future strategy was discussed.

Watch the video of MFFLI committee meeting: https://apo-opa.co/4nAIKzA

“We have so far provided 2280 scholarships for doctors from 52 countries in 44 underserved medical specialties. We will continue to build and enhance healthcare capacity in the Maldives, African countries, and beyond”, added Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Through their Community Awareness Programs, Merck Foundation is also closely working with The First Lady of Maldives to address a wide range of critical social issues like breaking infertility stigma, stopping gender-based violence and women empowerment, and important health issues including promoting the importance of healthy lifestyle, and diabetes and hypertension awareness.

Merck Foundation together with the First Lady Maldives will soon conduct their Health Media Training for Maldivian media representatives, to emphasize on the important role of media to address these critical social and health issues and be the voice of the voiceless.

Moreover, Merck Foundation also announced the Call for applications for their 8 important awards in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.

Moreover, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives, Merck Foundation is launching seven children’s storybooks, “More Than a Mother”, “Educating Linda”, “Jackline’s Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future” and “Sugar free Jude”, and “Mark’s Pressure”. The storybooks address various social and health issues like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, stopping GBV, diabetes and hypertension awareness.

The 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative was streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation:

@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4nboG78), X (https://apo-opa.co/4nCuGWl), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/42BORLQ),  and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4nFOGaF).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4nzgH3x), X (https://apo-opa.co/3VlVy0I), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/46kHB8d), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4nwVRBJ).

Link to the YouTube live stream of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation First Ladies High Level Panel: https://apo-opa.co/4ngm1t2

Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:

• 2280+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for doctors from 52 Countries in more than 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.  

Merck Foundation is also creating a culture shift and breaking the silence about a wide range of social and health issues in Africa and underserved communities through:

• 3700+ Media Persons from more than 35 countries trained to better raise awareness about different social and health issues

• 8 Different Awards launched annually for best media coverage, fashion designers, films, and songs

• Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa

• 8 Children’s Storybooks in three languages – English, French, and Portuguese

• 7 Awareness Animation films in five languages – English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes & Hypertension and supporting girl education.

• Pan African TV Program “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community

• 950+ Scholarships provided to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls to empower them to complete their studies

  • 15 Social Media Channels with more than 8 Million Followers.

Distributed by APO Group 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:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4nboG78
X: https://apo-opa.co/4nCuGWl
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4nFOGaF
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/42BORLQ
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4n0Nhvg
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/46qdUT8
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/3K7AgRZ

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/4nboG78), X (https://apo-opa.co/4nCuGWl), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/42BORLQ), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4nFOGaF), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4n0Nhvg) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/46qdUT8).

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.

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Ghana’s Petroleum Commission to Spotlight E&P Opportunities at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025

Source: APO – Report:

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Victoria Emeafa Hardcastle, Acting CEO of the Petroleum Commission of Ghana, will participate as a featured speaker at this year’s African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025, taking place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town. Her participation underscores Ghana’s ambition to accelerate upstream activity, attract new investment and consolidate its role as a competitive E&P hub in West Africa.

The Petroleum Commission continues to spearhead Ghana’s upstream drive, advancing new licensing opportunities, streamlining regulatory processes and introducing reforms that enhance competitiveness. With 17 oil and gas projects scheduled for development by 2027, Ghana is working to expand exploration, ramp up production and deepen private sector participation.

Recent initiatives include a promotion, marketing and revenue-sharing agreement with the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) covering data from the Voltaian Basin – one of the country’s largest onshore sedimentary basins. The deal lays the groundwork for future upstream licensing and underscores Ghana’s intent to unlock untapped onshore hydrocarbon potential, with GNPC planning to drill its first exploration well in the basin in early 2026.

In April, the Commission also convened its first official engagement with the Ghana Upstream Petroleum Chamber since Hardcastle’s appointment, addressing regulatory compliance, local participation and investment barriers. The dialogue highlighted both challenges and opportunities, with commitments from both sides to strengthen Ghana’s upstream investment climate.

Ghana’s upstream portfolio continues to expand, with both new projects and brownfield developments advancing. After bringing three new wells onstream at Jubilee South East, Tullow Oil plans additional drilling in 2025, while Eni is paving the way for the development of its Eban-Akoma discovery in the Cape Three Points 4 deepwater block. Kosmos Energy has pledged $2 billion toward upstream expansion, signaling long-term confidence in Ghana’s oil sector. Together, these initiatives reflect Ghana’s strategy to counter natural declines in mature fields, ramp up production and attract sustained international investment.

“Strong partnerships are essential to advancing Africa’s E&P industry. Ghana is demonstrating how reforms, proactive regulation and private sector engagement can translate into sustainable growth and opportunity,” stated Tomás Gerbasio, VP of Commercial and Strategic Engagement at the African Energy Chamber.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

About African Energy Week (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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Turan Bank Azerbaijan Signs $15 Million Line of Financing Agreement with the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD)

Source: APO – Report:

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Turan Bank, a leading player in Azerbaijan’s banking sector recognized for its strong international partnerships, has signed a financing agreement with the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) (https://ICD-ps.org), the private sector arm of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group.

Under this agreement, ICD will extend a USD 15 million Line of Finance for a term of five years to support Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Azerbaijan and improve access to financial resources for the private sector, in line with Turan Bank’s mission to foster sustainable economic growth in Azerbaijan.

This new facility represents a significant step toward advancing Turan Bank’s strategic objectives, particularly in strengthening SME development, expanding private sector financing, promoting Islamic finance, and contributing to the diversification of Azerbaijan’s economy. The financing is also expected to revitalize economic activity in the country’s regions and promote the growth of the non-oil sector. The initiative is fully aligned with ICD’s strategic focus on fostering the growth of SMEs and supporting private sector development as a key driver of sustainable economic progress across its member countries.

The agreement was signed by Dr Khalid Khalafallah, Acting CEO of ICD, and Orkhan Garayev, Chairman of the Management Board of Turan Bank.

This latest financing marks the sixth collaboration between Turan Bank and ICD since 2008, further reinforcing the long-standing and reliable partnership between the two institutions.

– on behalf of Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD).

For further details, please contact:
Turan Bank
Ramil Khalilov,
Chief Business Development Officer at Turan Bank,
rkhalilov@turanbank.az
Website: https://www.TuranBank.az

Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD)
Nabil El-Alami,
Communications & Corporate Marketing Division Manager at ICD,
Nalami@isdb.org
Website: https://ICD-ps.org/

About Turan Bank:
Turan Bank OJSC, established in 1992, is one of Azerbaijan’s most stable and reputable banks, offering a wide range of financial services to its customers in line with international standards. With 22 points of sale across the country, Turan Bank has steadily grown over its 33 years of operations. Known for its transparency, reliability, and commitment to social responsibility, Turan Bank continues to play a key role in Azerbaijan’s financial sector.

About the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD):
ICD is a multilateral organization and a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group. ICD’s mandate is to support economic development and promote the growth of the private sector in its member countries through providing financing facilities and/or investments in accordance with Shariah principles. Additionally, ICD offers advisory services to governments and private organizations to encourage the establishment, expansion, and modernization of private enterprises.  ICD is rated ‘A2’ by Moody’s, ‘A+’ by Fitch, and ‘A’ by S&P.

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Consumer inflation slows in August

Source: Government of South Africa

Statistics South Africa has recorded a slight decrease in annual consumer inflation for August – easing from some 3.5% to 3.3%.

This as fuel and food inflation slowed last month.

“The monthly change was also lower. The consumer price index (CPI) decreased by 0.1% between July and August, with four of 13 categories in the inflation basket registering monthly declines.

“These were food and non-alcoholic beverages [NAB] (-0,1%); furnishings, household equipment & routine maintenance (-0,1%); transport (-0,2%); and information & communication (-0,2%),” Stats SA said.

The annual rate for food and non-alcoholic beverages (NAB) edged lower to 5.2% in August from 5.7% in July.

Lower rates were also recorded in cereal products; fish and other seafood; milk, other dairy products and eggs; fruits and nuts, and vegetables.

“The rate for cereal products retreated from 2.1% in July to 1.5% in August. Some staples are cheaper than a year ago, including hot cereals (-7.8%) and white rice (-7.2%). Bread and pasta products recorded zero or low-price increases. 

“Examples include white bread (0.0%), brown bread (+0.4%), macaroni (+0.5%) and spaghetti (+0.6%). Some items are notably more expensive, such as samp (+14.8%) and maize meal (+8.2%),” the institution said.

Although beef continues to have high annual rates, the monthly increase in August is the lowest since April.

“Beef mince recorded a 12-month change of 27.2% and a monthly rise of 0.2%. Stewing beef reached an annual rate of 32.3% while its monthly change was 0.6%. Beef steak prices were 28.6% higher than a year ago but down by 1.2% between July and August.

“These low monthly changes follow factory-gate inflation of -7.8% in July for beef carcasses,” Stats SA noted.

Furthermore, the price index for milk, other dairy products and eggs “declined by 1.1%, the lowest annual print since March 2011 when the rate was -1.4%. Prices for fresh full-cream milk decreased by 2.9% between August 2024 and August 2025”. – SAnews.gov.za

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Paul Biya at 92: will defections weaken his grip on absolute power in Cameroon?

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By David E Kiwuwa, Associate Professor of International Studies, University of Nottingham

Cameroonians go to the polls in October 2025 in what some people hoped might be a break from the country’s troubled recent past. They thought that President Paul Biya (92) might stand aside to allow a transition.

Three years ago I was one of those who expressed optimism about the 2025 poll. But I was wrong.

Biya is set to run yet again for an 8th term. He is already one of Africa’s longest ruling presidents, behind only Equatorial Guinea’s Teodoro Nguema.

Biya is on the cusp of achieving lifetime presidency since taking office in 1982.

In July 2025, after months of speculation, he confirmed in a tweet that he would run again.

Having weathered coups, silenced dissent, defied death rumours, and outlasted generations of challengers, he reminded friend and foe alike that he remains at the centre of Cameroon’s political ecosystem.

I am a long time scholar of and commentator on African politics, regime transformation, democratic transition and broader governance. Given regional developments that have seen the military deposing long term leaders, one might expect Biya to superintend a managed transition. The intriguing question is: what is it about the situation in Cameroon that continues to defy logic?

There is evident restlessness and frustration among young Cameroonians as well as clear clamour for change. Yet, the incumbent remains the front-runner, supported by the ruling party, the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement, and his near-total command of the state’s political machinery.

Simply, the system has been designed to serve Biya’s interests. With government control of the media, resources, and judicial and electoral institutions, it is unlikely that the opposition can bring about systemic change.

Some things have changed, however. Biya’s previous wins were landslides that left no room for debate. This time things could potentially be different on account of high-profile defections from his party. These men will be challenging him at the polls.

The field

The last electoral cycle, leading up to the 2018 poll, was characterised by subdued challenges and a co-opted or deeply divided opposition. This time Biya appears to face a relatively organised opposition.

Initially, 83 candidates signalled their interest. In July the electoral commission cleared 13 to run. The commission controversially disqualified Maurice Kamto, a renowned legal scholar who performed respectably in the 2018 electoral cycle with 14% of the vote.

Human Rights Watch warned that this would cast a shadow over the credibility of the electoral process.

Nevertheless, several credible figures across the political spectrum remain in the race and present alternatives.

Biya faces two other former allies turned political adversaries.

One is Issa Tchiroma Bakary, his minister of employment and vocational training. A longtime insider of the regime, he served in various ministerial roles and was long considered a loyalist. Yet in June 2025, he resigned from the government, delivering a searing critique of the system he once represented.

He then launched his campaign, running on the ticket of the Front for the National Salvation of Cameroon.

The minister of tourism and leisure, Bello Bouba Maigari, still formally holding office, declared his intention in July 2025 to run against his boss in the October elections.

This announcement was especially striking given the deep political history between the two men. Maigari is not just any cabinet member. He is a long-standing confidant of the president, having been appointed Biya’s prime minister in 1982 and hailing from the vote-rich northern region. The decision to enter the race marks a shift from loyal lieutenant to presidential challenger, revealing the growing fissures within the ruling elite.

Others in the race worth noting are:

  • Akere Muna, a former speaker who swore in Biya in 1982 and a tireless advocate for transparency and accountability. He ran for the top job in 2018 (but withdrew at the last minute).

  • Cabral Libii, from the Cameroon Party for National Reconciliation, a young and dynamic leader who also ran for president in 2018 and garnered 6% of the total vote.

  • Joshua Osih, a seasoned politician with a strong track record.

The issues

The nation’s pressing issues remain the same as they have been for a long while.

These include:

  • Endemic corruption. Cameroon is ranked 140 out of 180 countries by Transparency International. The reasons are systemic decay of state institutions and maladministration.

  • Economic stasis, including stubborn unemployment forecast at 7.34% by Statista; 23% live below the international poverty line and 3.3 million are food insecure.

  • The ongoing anglophone regional crisis pitting the English speaking regions against the dominant francophone centre.

  • Biya’s ability to govern and the succession question, given his very advanced age and the potential vacuum or infighting if he couldn’t complete his term.

The external dimension

Western actors have been consistent critics of Biya’s regime in the recent past. However, some have adopted a more cautious tone, balancing criticism with strategic interests.

The US, for instance, suspended some military assistance to Cameroon in 2019 over human rights abuses. But it continues counter-terrorism cooperation against Boko Haram.

The European Union, while pressing for peaceful resolution of the anglophone conflict, remains an important trade and aid partner.

China has become Cameroon’s largest bilateral creditor and a top trading partner. According to a report by Business in Cameroon, in 2024 Cameroon owed about 64.8% of its external bilateral debt to China. This is primarily for infrastructure loans that have funded projects like the Kribi Deep Sea Port, the Yaoundé-Douala highway, and hydropower stations.

For regime survival, Biya has pursued a pragmatic foreign policy. Beijing’s diplomatic stance of non-interference and respect for sovereignty resonates with Cameroonian political elites wary of western scrutiny and criticism over democratic backsliding and the anglophone conflict.

But Biya has not severed ties with the west. For example, the government maintains partnerships with France for security training, with Germany for decentralisation support, and with the US for counterinsurgency.

This balancing is not simply geopolitical. It is also deeply embedded in domestic patronage networks. Foreign aid, loans and investments serve as resources to consolidate elite power, strengthen the patronage system and suppress dissent.

The October polls are sure to reaffirm the status quo.

– Paul Biya at 92: will defections weaken his grip on absolute power in Cameroon?
– https://theconversation.com/paul-biya-at-92-will-defections-weaken-his-grip-on-absolute-power-in-cameroon-264915

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Pan African Visions Launches Special Edition Celebrating 5 Years of African Energy Week

Source: APO – Report:

Pan African Visions (www.PanAfricanVisions.com) magazine is proud to release a special edition titled “AEW at 5 – From Vision to Global Energy Leader,” marking the fifth anniversary of African Energy Week (AEW).

Launched by the African Energy Chamber in 2021, AEW has grown into Africa’s largest energy event—generating billions in potential deals and attracting top global industry leaders, policymakers, and investors to Cape Town each year.

“Africa has the resources, the talent, and the vision to lead,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “AEW has shown the world what Africa is capable of.”

This special edition of Pan African Visions highlights key voices shaping the continent’s energy future, including:

  •  NJ Ayuk on the AEW Revolution
  • Gwede Mantashe: South Africa’s Energy Gatekeeper
  • Jean-Richard Itoua: Championing Congo’s Energy Future
  • Nigeria: President Tinubu’s Energy Vision
  • Foday Mansaray: Sierra Leone’s Roadmap to First Oil
  • Omar Ibrahim Farouk: The Strategic Vision for the AEB
  • Dietsmann: Expanding Africa’s Energy Footprint
  • Proscovia Nabbanja: Shaping Uganda’s Oil Destiny
  • Rene Awambeng: The Dealmaker Redefining Africa’s Energy Future
  • Forvis Mazars: Innovation and Insight in Africa’s Energy Growth

From profiles of leading energy actors like Wale Tinubu of OANDO, Maxime Ominga of SNPC, Vermer Ayukeba, Vice President of the AEC, Gabriel Obiang Lima of the Central African Pipeline System (CAPS) , to interviews with others like Nikki Martin of EnerGEO ,Jude Kearney of Asafo, and  more, the  AEW at 5 special edition of  PAV magazine offers deep insights into AEW’s impact and Africa’s strategic role in the global energy transition.

AEW 2025 runs from September 29 – October 3 in Cape Town, South Africa and is on course to defy attendance records.

Read the  Full Special Edition Here https://apo-opa.co/468CR6V

– on behalf of Pan African Visions.

For press inquiries, media partnerships, or interview requests, please contact:
Media Inquiries:
pav@panafricanvisions.com 
WhatsApp: +1 240 429 2177

About Pan African Visions:
Pan African Visions is a leading pan-African media outlet delivering daily news, analysis, and features across politics, business, development, health, energy, culture, innovation, and more. With a robust digital readership and monthly print circulation, it connects African leaders, experts, and entrepreneurs with global audiences and investors—fostering dialogue and unlocking Africa’s vast potential.

Visit www.PanAfricanVisions.com for more.

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