Category: MIL-OSI

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dtic to lead SA business delegation to Intra-African Trade Fair

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) will lead a South African business delegation of 30 companies to the fourth Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), scheduled to take place in Algiers, Algeria, from 4 to 10 September 2025.

The IATF promotes intra-African trade by connecting businesses, investors and policymakers from across the continent and the diaspora.

Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Zuko Godlimpi, said the event offers South Africa an opportunity to showcase its goods and services, attract investment, foster regional integration, and advance the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“Participating in international exhibitions like these is critical to the dtic’s mandate and the objectives of the Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) 2024-2029 to grow the economy, create jobs, industrialisation, localisation, inclusive growth and growing the domestic market and exports,” Godlimpi said.

He added that Algeria, as the host country, holds strategic importance as Africa’s third-largest economy. “It is of importance that we establish direct trade routes to improve trade between the two countries,” he said.

While South Africa currently enjoys a trade surplus under the AfCFTA, Godlimpi noted that preferential trade with Algeria remains limited. He said both countries need to step up efforts to encourage and support preferential trade under the AfCFTA to fully utilise new market access opportunities.

“The trade fair will also foster small and medium enterprise cross-border partnerships, enabling regional value chain integration, and diversifying exports against the backdrop of volatilities in traditional markets,” he said.

The IATF will focus on sectors such as agriculture, automotive, mining, information and communications technology (ICT) and energy. Alongside the exhibition, the programme will feature trade and investment forums as well as industry conferences.

Following previous editions in Cairo (2018 and 2023) and Durban (2021), the IATF 2025 is expected to attract about 35 000 attendees and 1 600 exhibitors. – SAnews.gov.za

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SA steps into Heritage Month

Source: Government of South Africa

As South Africa celebrates Heritage Month this September, Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has urged that museums, archives and heritage sites be repositioned as active drivers of national identity, social change and development.

“Heritage institutions cannot just be museums of dust and silence. They must become places of action, innovation, and opportunity. Young South Africans should walk into a museum or heritage site and see themselves, feel inspired, and leave empowered to shape a better tomorrow,” McKenzie said on Monday.

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) officially launched Heritage Month 2025 under the theme: ‘Reimagine our Heritage Institutions for a New Era’.

The theme reflects a shift from heritage institutions being custodians of memory to serving as platforms for innovation, inclusion and community development.

“The initiative recognises that South Africa’s heritage is not only a reflection of the past but a powerful catalyst for building a dynamic, socially responsive, technologically innovative, and economically inclusive future built on the democratic values of human dignity, equality and supremacy of the rule of law,” McKenzie said.

South Africa’s museums, archives and heritage sites have long preserved the nation’s diverse narratives, especially in the post-apartheid era. But, with evolving socio-economic and technological challenges, government sees the need for these institutions to take on a more active role in shaping society.

“We are entering a new era. Our institutions must reflect the dreams of a new generation. Through technology, creativity, and the full participation of our people, we can turn memory into momentum. The courage of our past heroes must ignite the fire of future innovation,” McKenzie added.

This year, the national Heritage Day celebration will be hosted in Oudtshoorn, Western Cape, in partnership with the provincial government.

Heritage Month 2025 will also pay tribute to the heroes and heroines of the liberation struggle. In collaboration with the Association for Ex-Political Prisoners (AEPP) and the Robben Island Museum (RIM), the department will host a Reunion of Ex-Political Prisoners on 27 September at Robben Island. The event will be held under the theme, ‘Reuniting with Robben Island as the Stronghold that Fortified Our Resistance to Achieve Our Freedom’.

“This symbolic and emotional gathering will pay tribute to Robben Island based ex-political prisoners, those brave, courageous and selfless combatants who put their lives on the line for the attainment of South Africa’s freedom and democracy.

“This event not only honours the legacy of resistance but reconnects our national consciousness with the lived experiences of those who endured incarceration in the name of justice and equality,” McKenzie said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Call for MSMEs to apply for support of up to R23 million

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

The Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) has called on qualifying Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to apply for support of up to R23 million under the Business Infrastructure Support Programme (BISP).

BISP aims to support MSMEs with business enabling machinery, equipment, tools, technology, energy support and infrastructure (newly built or refurbished) and enable market access for MSMEs.

Priority sectors include disaster management, agriculture, manufacturing (food & beverages), medical, automotive, construction, wholesale and retail, mining, services and creative Industries.

Applicants may apply for built Infrastructure – refurbished or new (e.g. MSME hubs, Industrial Parks, market stalls etc) from R1 million up to R23million; equipment, tools, technology and machinery from R 1 million up to R5 million and energy support solutions from R1 million up to R10 million.

Eligible applicants include municipalities; municipal and provincial entities; traditional authorities and registered legal entities (e.g cooperatives, private companies, informal traders).

The programme covers applicants who fall within the category of micro enterprises with a maximum turnover of R10 million, as well as small enterprises with an annual turnover of not more than R10 million.

Applicants are required to complete the BISP application form and submit it together with all required supporting documents as listed in the form, including but not limited to:

  • Financial statements and or management accounts signed by an accountant (where applicable).
  • Compliance documentation (Permits from relevant authorities where applicable e.g. ElA or Land Use -N.B built infrastructure applications).
  • Central Supplier Database (CSD) compliance for suppliers.
  • Technical designs and cost breakdowns.
  • Executive Authority approvals.

Applications must be submitted online by 19 September 2025. The website for applications can be found on https://vcmasa.dsbd.gov.za/. Alternatively, download and complete the official BISP Application form on https://vcmasa.dsbd.gov.za/ and submit the completed application and supporting documents via email to: BISP@dsbd.gov.za.

Applicants will receive an automated response with a reference number confirming receipt of your application. –SAnews.gov.za

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New head of Independent Power Producers Office announced

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Electricity and Energy (DEE) has announced the appointment of experienced power generation executive, Precious Mmabakwena Edward, as the new Head of the Independent Power Producers Office (IPPO).

The appointment is effective from this month with Edward adding some 20 years of experience in the sector to the office.

“She currently serves as the Chief Executive of ENGIE Kathu Solar Facility, one of the first multibillion-rand Concentrated Solar Power [CSP] projects successfully developed under the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producers Procurement Programme [REIPPPP],” the DEE said in a statement.

In this role, Edward oversaw the “stabilisation of operations and delivered strong returns for shareholders” as well as “exemplified the qualities of a servant leader placing people at the centre of her leadership”.

“She has championed career development and skills growth for the workforce, created pathways for small businesses to participate in the energy value chain, and ensured that surrounding communities benefit through meaningful jobs, training, and enterprise opportunities. 

“Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to shared prosperity, inclusivity, and sustainable development in the regions where the facility operates,” the DEE said.

She also worked at Eskom where she served as Head of Fuel Sourcing.

“[She] directed procurement strategies under tight governance controls, and as a Contracts Lead on the Medupi Power Station project, managing multi-billion-rand commercial and contractual frameworks.

“Ms Edward holds a BTech in Electrical Engineering, a Master’s in Business Leadership (MBL) and an LLB[Bachelor of Law] degree. This unique combination of technical, business, and legal expertise equips her to navigate complex operational, financial, and governance challenges at the highest level,” the statement read.

Transforming the IPPO

The DEE explained that Edwards’ appointment comes at a “pivotal moment” for the IPPO as it marks 15 years since establishment.

“Looking forward, the IPPO will be transformed into a more agile, efficient, and impactful institution that responds to modern energy challenges,” the statement said.

Furthermore, under her leadership, the office will:
•    Advance transformation and inclusivity by ensuring greater participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in the energy sector
•    Drive local manufacturing and industrialisation opportunities, aligned with the South African Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM)
•    Maximise socio-economic development benefits in future procurement rounds;
•    Introduce innovative procurement models that strengthen security of supply, affordability, and alignment with South Africa’s just energy transition priorities.

“Ms Edward is widely recognised for her principled, resilient, and values-driven leadership, having received numerous accolades throughout her career. Her appointment marks more than a change in leadership it is a renewal of purpose.

“For the past 15 years, the IPPO has been the engine room powering South Africa’s entry into large-scale renewable energy procurement. Today, under her stewardship, we turn the page to a new chapter: one where the IPPO becomes not only a procurement office, but a catalyst for transformation, industrialisation, and socio-economic inclusion,” the department explained.

Her appointment is in line with the department’s Strategic Plan 2025–2030 which advances priorities including:
•    Achieving Universal Access to Electricity by 2030
•    Promoting industrialisation and localisation
•    Driving a just energy transition with jobs and skills at the centre
•    Strengthening governance, efficiency, and accountability in energy procurement

“As the department advances its Strategic Priorities of achieving universal access to electricity by 2030, accelerating localisation and manufacturing, and driving a just energy transition, Ms Edward’s leadership will be instrumental in steering the IPPO from being a pioneering institution into becoming a symbol of national renewal. 

“Like a bridge built on strong foundations, her role will connect the lessons of the past to the opportunities of the future ensuring that secure, affordable, and transformative energy continues to power South Africa’s development,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Condolences for jazz musician, Ernest "Stompie" Manana

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Matome Chiloane has extended his condolences following the passing of legendary jazz musician, Ernest “Stompie” Manana.

Manana passed away on Friday, 29 August at the age of 89.

“Manana was a giant in South African Jazz, whose impact is immeasurable. His contributions shaped South African jazz music beyond being a talented artist performing on global stages, but as a mentor and teacher to others. With the late-great Hugh Masekela as one of his many mentees, Manana’s work will be felt for generations to come. Deepest condolences go to the Manana family, friends and all jazz music players and lovers. We have truly lost a pioneer in the genre,” the MEC said in a statement on Monday.

Manana was a trumpeter and flugelhorn player, who played an instrumental role in revival and preservation of township jazz as a Sophiatown native. 

According to the provincial government, over the course of his 60-year career, Manana recorded music and performed all over the world in revered bands such as the Savoy Havanas, The Cliffs, the Transvaal Jazz Stars, the African Swingsters and the African Jazz Pioneers, of which he was a founding member.

“May his soul rest in eternal peace,” said the MEC. –SAnews.gov.za

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Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) to Spotlight Mining Sector Investments at African Mining Week (AMW) 2025

Source: APO


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As African nations strengthen their positions as global leaders in the production of diamonds, platinum group metals, chromium, uranium, cobalt and other key industrial minerals, development finance institutions – such as the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) – are providing essential funding through loans, equity investments and infrastructure support. 

Molebogeng Mazibuko, Associate Vice President-Investment, AFC and Franklin Edochie, Deputy Director & Head-Metals & Mining, AFC, have been confirmed as speakers at the upcoming African Mining Week 2025 – Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders. 

African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

Mazibuko will deliver a keynote address during AMW’s opening ceremony. The event is set to feature insights into the current state of Africa’s investment and mining landscapes and highlight the AFC’s role in driving mining sector growth across the continent. To date, the AFC has mobilized $14 billion in investments across multiple sectors, contributing over $50 billion to Africa’s GDP (https://apo-opa.co/4mLorzx) and creating more than 7 million jobs. Notable mining-related investments include the Kamoa-Kakula copper mine – the world’s lowest-emission copper operation – which alone contributes 6% to the Democratic Republic of Congo’s GDP. The AFC’s ongoing investment in the Lobito Rail Corridor – a logistics corridor linking Angola, the DRC and Zambia – will cut mineral export times from 45 days to seven. 

Meanwhile, Edochie will speak during The Investor Perspective – Financing Africa’s Mineral Industrialization panel session, which is set to explore best practices and financing strategies to advance local beneficiation and boost mineral production across the continent. Edochie is expected to spotlight the AFC’s recent strategic investments in African mining sector expansion (https://apo-opa.co/4p3cFlm) – including the FG Gold Project in Sierra Leone, Thor Explorations’ initiative in Nigeria, Giyani Metals’ project in Botswana and the Nyanza Light Metals project in South Africa. The AFC is also making strategic investments to unlock Nigeria’s commercial mining space through a partnership with the Solid Minerals Development Fund (https://apo-opa.co/4n8hFn5). 

With the AFC expanding its investment portfolio and Africa harnessing rising mineral demand for economic growth, AMW will connect the AFC representatives with mining projects to form partnerships and sign industry-changing deals. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Sidi Ould Tah Assumes Office as 9th President of the African Development Bank Group

Source: APO

History was made today when Dr. Sidi Ould Tah was sworn-in, as the ninth President of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) (www.AfDB.org).  

At exactly11:04 Abidjan time, on a rainswept Monday morning, Dr. Sidi took his oath-of-office, at the helm of Africa’s premier development finance institution succeeding Dr Akinwumi A. Adesina who has completed his two terms.  

Côte d’Ivoire’s President Alassane Ouattara, and his Mauritanian counterpart President, Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, graced the elaborate high-level ceremony held at the Sofitel Abidjan Hôtel Ivoire. Former African Development Bank Group Presidents Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, and Dr. Donald Kaberuka, as well as the Bank Group’s Board of Governors, including Executive Directors, staff and international dignitaries were in attendance to witness the change of leadership. The Republic of the Congo’s economy minister Ludovic Ngatse in his capacity as Chair of the Board of Governors of the Bank presided over the swearing in-ceremony.  

Dr. Ould Tah, 60, who hails from the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, was elected on 29 May 2025 with over 76% of shareholder votes—the highest margin for a first-term president in the Bank’s history.  

President Ouattara termed the change of leadership a “milestone which comes at a historic moment in the life of our pan-African institution” and “paves the way for a new era of hope for the Bank.” 

In his congratulatory remarks delivered immediately after the swearing-in ceremony President Ghazouani noted that, “Dr. Sidi Ould Tah has this heavy responsibility to ensure that the Bank enhances its key role in promoting the economic and social development of the continent, for it to remain a full lever in terms of fulfilling the aspirations of African people to peace, prosperity and development.” 

President Ghazouani expressed confidence in the Bank’s new president to deliver for the continent.  

“We will be the Bank that bridges divides-between regions, between ambitions and execution, between public and private, between urgency and bureaucracy. Let us move forward together – with urgency, with unity, and with unwavering accountability.” Ould Tah said in his well-received inaugural speech. 

Dr. Ould Tah outlined his Four Cardinal Points which include, listening intently; launching a fast-track reform agenda; deepening partnerships and accelerating real solutions as the core priorities which will guide his presidency in the first 100-days of office.  

The new President reiterated that the Bank will be “attentive, responsive, and capable of setting priorities that matter.”  He went on to note that the Bank will enhance partnerships by working closely with governments, the private sector, and international partners, “so that together we create a financial framework that serves Africa on its own terms.” 

Dr Ould Tah acknowledged the presence of Bank partners including Finance in Common, the Alliance of African Financial Institutions, the International Development Finance Club, and the Arab Coordination Group, and pledged his readiness “to expand the Bank’s partnership to new players such as sovereign funds, pension funds and others”. Additionally, he made a commitment to “urgently revisit our investment models to include a dedicated pillar for investment in peace.” 

President Ould Tah affirmed his intention to organise a Townhall “in the coming days” for Bank staff, whom he described as the “institution’s most valuable resource.” 

Envisioning a vital role for the Bank as a guide for a continent confronting the 21st century challenges of demographics, technology and climate change, Ould Tah said: “Africa must look North, South, East and West—not to imitate, but to draw wisdom and strength from every direction while defining its own course. Like a navigator guided by the compass, the Bank should help Africa navigate the megatrends toward increased self-reliance, ambition, and agency,” he said. However, he stressed, this important leadership role in crafting universal solutions “shaped by African perspectives, African priorities, and African agency” must be approached in a selective manner, saying, “The African Development Bank should not aim to be everything to everyone. It should focus on where it can move the needle most, always with the spirit of partnership.” 

Dr. Ould Tah is the former President of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), where he oversaw a landmark institutional transformation. Under his leadership, BADEA’s assets grew from $4 billion to nearly $7 billion, annual approvals increased twelvefold and disbursements eightfold; and the institution achieved AA+/AAA credit ratings.  

He brings to the Presidency of the African Development Bank Group over four decades of distinguished experience in development banking, economic policy, and institutional transformation. He also previously served as Minister of Economy and Finance of Mauritania between 2008 and 2015, and Mauritania’s Governor on the Boards of the African Development Bank, World Bank and the Islamic Development Bank, among others.  

Fluent in Arabic, English and French, with working proficiency in Portuguese and Spanish languages, President Ould Tah holds a PhD in Economics from University of Nice Sophia Antipolis, France, and advanced degrees from Paris VII-Jussieu and University of Nouakchott. 

Dr. Ould Tah inherits a pan-African institution with robust fundamentals: $318 billion in capital, AAA credit ratings maintained for 10 consecutive years, and the world’s highest transparency score for a sovereign portfolio, at 98.8%. Over the past decade, the Bank has approved $102 billion in development financing.  

The audience at the swearing-in ceremony included representatives of international institutions and development partners, private sector, civil society, diplomats, members of the Bank’s Board of Directors, and staff. Three of the candidates who contested for the Presidency alongside Dr. Ould Tah—Ms. Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala, Mr. Amadou Hott and Dr. Samuel Munzele Maimbo—were also in attendance.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media Contact:  
Tolu Ogunlesi
Communications and External Relations Department (PCER); 
media@afdb.org

About the African Development Bank Group: 
The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

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M. Sidi Ould Tah prend ses fonctions en tant que neuvième président du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Une nouvelle page d’histoire s’est ouverte aujourd’hui au moment où M. Sidi Ould Tah a prêté serment en tant que neuvième président du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org).  

À 11h04 très précisément (heure d’Abidjan), par un lundi matin pluvieux, M. Tah a prêté serment, assumant la direction de la première institution financière de développement en Afrique et succédant ainsi à M. Akinwumi Adesina à l’issue de ses deux mandats successifs. 

Le président de la Côte d’Ivoire, M. Alassane Ouattara, et son homologue mauritanien, M. Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, ont honoré de leur présence la cérémonie officielle qui s’est déroulée au Sofitel Abidjan Hôtel Ivoire. Les anciens présidents du Groupe de la Banque, M. Akinwumi Adesina et M. Donald Kaberuka, ainsi que les membres du Conseil des gouverneurs du Groupe de la Banque, y compris ses administrateurs, le personnel de l’institution et des personnalités internationales de haut rang, étaient présents pour assister à cette passation de pouvoir. Le ministre de l’Économie, du Plan et de l’Intégration régionale de la République du Congo, M. Ludovic Ngatsé, en sa qualité de président du Conseil des gouverneurs du Groupe de la Banque, a présidé la cérémonie de prestation de serment. 

De nationalité mauritanienne M. Tah, âgé de 60 ans, a été élu, le 29 mai dernier, avec plus de 76 % des voix des actionnaires, ce qui représente la plus forte marge obtenue par un président élu pour un premier mandat à la tête de l’institution. 

Le président Ouattara a qualifié ce changement de direction de « jalon historique dans la vie de notre institution panafricaine », et a déclaré qu’il « ouvrait la voie à une nouvelle ère d’espoir pour la Banque ». 

Dans son discours de félicitations prononcé immédiatement après la cérémonie de prestation de serment, le président Ghazouani a souligné que M. Tah avait « la lourde responsabilité de veiller à ce que la Banque renforce son rôle clé dans la promotion du développement économique et social du continent, afin qu’elle reste un levier à part entière pour répondre aux aspirations des Africains à la paix, à la prospérité et au développement ». 

Le président Ghazouani a exprimé sa confiance dans la capacité du nouveau président du Groupe de la Banque à tenir ses promesses pour le continent.  

« Nous serons la banque qui comblera les fossés entre les régions, entre les ambitions et la mise en œuvre, entre le public et le privé, entre l’urgence et la bureaucratie. Allons de l’avant ensemble, avec célérité, avec unité et avec une responsabilité sans faille », a déclaré M. Sidi Ould Tah dans son discours d’investiture, qui a reçu un accueil très favorable.  

M. Tah a présenté les quatre points cardinaux de sa stratégie, qui comprennent une écoute attentive, le lancement d’un programme de réformes accéléré, l’approfondissement des partenariats et l’accélération des solutions concrètes comme priorités fondamentales qui guideront sa présidence au cours des cent premiers jours de son mandat. 

Le nouveau président a réaffirmé que la Banque serait « attentive, réactive et capable de fixer les priorités qui comptent ». M. Tah a ensuite souligné que la Banque renforcerait ses partenariats en travaillant en étroite collaboration avec les gouvernements, le secteur privé et les partenaires internationaux, « afin qu’ensemble, nous créions un cadre financier qui serve l’Afrique selon ses propres conditions ». 

M. Tah a salué la présence des partenaires de la Banque, notamment Finance en commun, l’Alliance des institutions financières africaines, le Club international de financement du développement et le Groupe de coordination arabe, et s’est déclaré prêt « à étendre le partenariat de la Banque à de nouveaux acteurs tels que les fonds souverains, les fonds de pension, et d’autres ». Par ailleurs, il s’est engagé à « revoir d’urgence nos modèles d’investissement afin d’y inclure un pilier dédié à l’investissement dans la paix ». 

Le président Tah a affirmé son intention d’organiser « dans les prochains jours » une réunion publique pour le personnel de la Banque, qu’il a qualifié de « ressource la plus précieuse de l’institution ».  

M. Tah a envisagé le rôle essentiel que peut jouer la Banque en tant que guide pour un continent confronté aux défis du 21e siècle en matière de démographie, de technologie et de changement climatique : « L’Afrique doit regarder vers le nord, le sud, l’est et l’ouest, non pas pour imiter, mais pour puiser la sagesse et la force dans toutes les directions, tout en définissant sa propre voie. À l’instar d’un navigateur guidé par sa boussole, la Banque devrait aider l’Afrique à naviguer vers une autonomie accrue, une ambition accrue et une plus grande capacité d’action », a-t-il suggéré. Il a toutefois souligné que ce rôle important de leadership dans l’élaboration de solutions universelles « façonnées par les perspectives, les priorités et l’autonomie africaines » doit être abordé de manière sélective, affirmant que « la Banque africaine de développement ne doit pas chercher à être tout pour tout le monde. Elle doit se concentrer sur les domaines où elle peut avoir le plus d’impact, toujours dans un esprit de partenariat ».  

M. Tah est l’ancien président de la Banque arabe pour le développement économique en Afrique (BADEA), où il a supervisé une transformation institutionnelle historique. Sous sa présidence, les actifs de la BADEA sont passés de quatre milliards à près de sept milliards de dollars, les approbations annuelles ont été multiplié par douze et les décaissements par fois ; l’institution a obtenu la notation de crédit AA+/AAA. 

M. Tah apporte à la présidence du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement plus de quatre décennies d’expérience reconnue dans le domaine des banques de développement, de la politique économique et de la transformation institutionnelle. Il a également occupé les fonctions de ministre de l’Économie et des Finances de Mauritanie entre 2008 et 2015, et de gouverneur de la Mauritanie au sein des conseils d’administration de la Banque africaine de développement, de la Banque mondiale et de la Banque islamique de développement, entre autres. 

Parlant couramment l’arabe, l’anglais et le français, et maîtrisant le portugais et l’espagnol, le président Tah est titulaire d’un doctorat en économie de l’université de Nice Sophia Antipolis, en France, et a est diplômé de l’université Paris VII-Jussieu et de l’université de Nouakchott. 

M. Tah hérite d’une institution panafricaine aux fondations solides : 318 milliards de dollars de capital, une notation de crédit AAA maintenue pendant dix années consécutives, et le score de transparence le plus élevé au monde pour un portefeuille souverain (98,8 %). Au cours de la dernière décennie, la Banque a approuvé 102 milliards de dollars de financements en faveur du développement de l’Afrique. 

Parmi le public présent à la cérémonie d’investiture figuraient des représentants d’institutions internationales et de partenaires du développement, du secteur privé, de la société civile, des représentants du corps diplomatique, des membres du Conseil d’administration de la Banque et de son personnel. Trois des candidats, qui se sont présentés à la présidence, aux côtés de M. Tah, Mme Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala, M. Amadou Hott et M. Samuel Munzele Maimbo, étaient également présents dans la salle du Palais des Congrès. 

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact médias : 
Tolu Ogunlesi
Département de la communication et des relations extérieures
media@afdb.org

À propos du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement :
Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement est la principale institution du financement du développement en Afrique. Il comprend trois entités distinctes : la Banque africaine de développement (BAD), le Fonds africain de développement (FAD) et le Fonds spécial du Nigeria (FSN). Représentée dans 41 pays africains, avec un bureau extérieur au Japon, la Banque contribue au développement économique et au progrès social de ses 54 Etats membres régionaux. Pour plus d’informations : www.AfDB.org 

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Le secteur des services publics en Afrique acquiert de nouvelles capacités de protection pour assurer la longévité des poteaux électriques

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Un rapport indépendant mené sur le terrain en Ouganda présente des résultats probants de l’utilisation des manchons Polesaver (www.Polesaver.com) Rot-Guard™ pour maximiser la durée de vie des poteaux en bois de distribution d’électricité. Ces résultats devraient guider les entreprises de services publics et les concepteurs d’infrastructures à travers l’Afrique vers des solutions plus rentables et pérennes. 

Réalisé par Paul Mugabi, professeur-consultant associé à l’École des sciences forestières, environnementales et géographiques de l’Université Makerere, le rapport est la première du genre en Afrique de l’Est à évaluer les technologies de protection au sol dans des conditions locales. 

Que sont les manchons Rot-Guard™ ? 

Les manchons Polesaver Rot-Guard™ sont des solutions de protection à double couche et thermorétractables conçues pour protéger la partie la plus vulnérable d’un poteau en bois (la partie enfouie) contre la décomposition fongique et l’attaque des termites. Cette partie, où le poteau est en contact avec le sol (jusqu’à six pouces sous terre), est très sensible à la détérioration biologique. Une couche thermoplastique externe se fixe au poteau, empêchant la pénétration de l’eau et de l’oxygène, tandis qu’une couche bitumineuse interne scelle le bois, formant une barrière impénétrable et durable. 

Malgré la concurrence de l’acier et du béton, les poteaux en bois restent le choix préféré pour la distribution d’électricité dans de nombreuses régions africaines en raison de leur coût inférieur, de leur facilité d’installation, de leur empreinte environnementale réduite et de leur disponibilité locale. Toutefois, les défaillances prématurées (souvent dans un délai de dix ans) dues à la pourriture et aux termites continuent de peser sur les fournisseurs de services publics. Entre 2017 et 2021, l’Ouganda a dépensé plus de huit millions de dollars pour remplacer les poteaux en bois en décomposition – plus de 85 % des défaillances étant attribuées à une détérioration biologique. 

Résultats du rapport 

Dans l’étude, 200 poteaux en bois installés dans le centre de l’Ouganda ont été examinés : 113 protégés par des manchons Polesaver Rot-Guard™, et 87 poteaux témoins non traités, chacun fixé dans le sol pendant jusqu’à huit ans. 

Principales conclusions du rapport : 

  • Pas de décomposition des poteaux manchonnés, contre 4,6% de décomposition pour les poteaux non manchonnés 
  • Pas d’attaque de termites des poteaux manchonnés, contre 5,75% d’attaque pour les poteaux non manchonnés  

« Ces résultats montrent comment une technologie relativement simple, rentable et éprouvée peut apporter des avantages substantiels aux fournisseurs de services publics », souligne Richard George, CEO de Polesaver. « En prolongeant la durée de vie des poteaux, les manchons Rot-Guard™ peuvent réduire considérablement les coûts de remplacement et de maintenance, tout en améliorant la sécurité et la fiabilité du réseau. » 

Le rapport (https://apo-opa.co/4p0oPvk) fournit des conclusions solides d’une adoption plus large de la technologie des manchons de protection dans les climats tropicaux et subtropicaux et offre une feuille de route pour améliorer la résilience des infrastructures électriques à travers le continent. Les cycles de financement Mission 300 étant en cours, ces conclusions arrivent à point nommé. L’objectif ambitieux de l’initiative de fournir un accès à l’électricité à 300 millions de nouveaux clients d’ici à 2030 ne réussira que si les investissements donnent la priorité à des solutions qui prolongent la durée de vie et la fiabilité de ces actifs critiques. 

Distribué par APO Group pour Polesaver.

Pour de plus amples renseignements, veuillez contacter :  
Claire Powell
responsable du marketing 
claire.powell@polesaver.com 
+44 (0) 1452 222 364 

À propos de Polesaver :
Polesaver est une entreprise familiale basée au Royaume-Uni et basée dans le Gloucestershire. Polesaver a été le pionnier du premier manchon au monde de protection au sol à double couche en 1994. Depuis lors, la société est devenue le plus grand fabricant à l’échelle mondiale, fournissant une protection éprouvée pour les poteaux de services publics dans plus de 35 pays. www.Polesaver.com

Media files

Posted on

Former Eskom contractor sentenced for fraud and money laundering

Source: Government of South Africa

The Mpumalanga Specialised Commercial Crimes Court has sentenced a former Eskom contractor to some 16 years imprisonment, wholly suspended, after she pleaded guilty to charges of fraud and money laundering at Thuthuka Power Station.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Phindile Jessie Kubheka – director of Umnandi Catering and Accommodation and Ronny Grass Cutting (Pty) Ltd – was contracted by the power utility to supply it with a customised oil storage container and two weighbridge information storage containers at a cost of some R2.5 million.

“However, she only delivered one standard container valued at approximately R60 000, while submitting an invoice for three containers, which Eskom paid in full. Investigations later revealed that Kubheka had inflated the costs by R939 550. 

“In aggravation of sentence, Senior State Advocate Derrick Mashego, argued that the offence was carefully planned, motivated by greed, and caused significant financial prejudice to Eskom and the fiscus,” the NPA said.

The prosecutorial body said Khubeka “expressed remorse” during mitigation – citing her “retirement status, personal tragedies”, as well as admitting to “using proceeds of the crime to purchase a luxury vehicle”.

“The court imposed an effective sentence of 12 years for fraud and four years for money laundering, wholly suspended for five years. In addition, under Section 300 of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977, Kubheka was ordered to repay R1 656 000 to Eskom within five years, in monthly instalments of R30 000 until the amount is fully settled.

“The NPA reiterates that serious commercial crimes threaten South Africa’s economic stability and compromise Eskom’s ability to provide reliable electricity. The NPA remains resolute in adopting an aggressive stance in prosecuting those who undermine the country’s resources through corruption and fraud,” the prosecutorial body said.

Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, vowed to continue the crackdown on any wrongdoing at the power utility.

“Our commitment to eliminating corruption remains unwavering and these developments send a clear message: fraud and corruption will not be tolerated.

“The vast majority of Eskom employees act with integrity and dedication. We will pursue those who betray the organisation and the country with our law enforcement partners and seek prosecutions wherever possible,” Marokane said. – SAnews.gov.za