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On the road to 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30): the African Development Bank Group is piloting several financial instruments to support African countries in tackling climate change

Source: APO

Eight of the 10 countries most affected by climate change are in Africa: droughts, cyclones and floods are compromising agricultural production, exposing populations to food insecurity and climate-induced migration and putting pressure on key sectors critical to the continent’s development, resulting in a significant displacement of public expenditure. Despite a lack of resources, Africa is trying to adapt to these effects of climate change. The continent receives less than three percent of global climate finance, even though it loses between seven percent and 15 percent of its gross domestic product (GDP) due to climate change.

Given the urgency of the climate crisis, especially for the most vulnerable countries, the African Development Bank Group, Africa’s leading development finance institution, is strongly committed to supporting African countries in strengthening their resilience to climate change and supporting their transition to low-carbon development pathways. Through several climate finance initiatives and instruments, it is helping African countries access direct and flexible resources to implement their climate commitments under the Paris Agreement, including the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and National Adaptation Plans (NAPs).

As Belém, the Brazilian metropolis in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, prepares to host the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) from 10 to 21 November 2025, the meeting is set to be decisive for the future of the Paris Agreement — 10 years after the world’s pledge to keep global warming below the critical threshold of 1.5°C.

Between 50,000 and 60,000 delegates – from heads of state to ministers, experts, financial actors, the private sector, civil society and Indigenous communities – are expected in the capital of the state of Pará to try to revive global climate momentum. The main priorities for this COP are to accelerate the energy transition, ensure a just transition for the most vulnerable nations, and, above all, mobilise large-scale climate finance for developing economies.

Finance innovations from the African Development Bank

One of the oldest climate finance mechanisms still in operation within the Bank Group is the Climate Investment Fund (CIF). With a budget of $12.5 billion, the fund, created in 2008, has supported 47 investment plans and approved 45 projects since its inception, providing more than $1 billion in financing to the Bank. Leveraging CIF resources, the Bank has also mobilized an additional $2.42 billion in co-financing.

This funding has enabled low- and middle-income African countries to accelerate their climate adaptation efforts through programmes in clean technology, access to clean energy, climate resilience and sustainable forests.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the CIF has enabled Dorcas Tshabu (https://apo-opa.co/43diNyu) to fulfil a childhood dream: to restore the forest in her homeland. After a long wait, she now manages a farm about 20 km from Mbuji-Mayi, in the centre of the country. “This used to be savanna, everywhere. But I turned it into a forest. It’s the work of my own hands! Everyone who passes by here appreciates it. That makes me happy,” says Dorcas.

Since 2021, Dorcas has grown a lush 50-hectare forest with the support of the Integrated REDD+ Project in the Mbuji-Mayi, Kananga and Kissangai basins (PIREDD-MBKIS). This project, financed to the tune of €21.5 million by the African Development Bank as part of the Forest Investment Program (FIP), has addressed the main drivers of deforestation and forest degradation in the country’s three provinces.

Established in 2011, the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) is also an essential facility in the development of clean-energy blended finance initiatives under the auspices of the African Development Bank. It provides catalytic finance to unlock private sector investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency. SEFA also offers technical assistance and concessional finance instruments to remove market barriers, build a more robust pipeline of projects and improve the risk-return profile of individual investments. SEFA supports interventions across three strategic priorities: green baseload production, green mini-grids, and energy efficiency.

The 32 MW Ilute solar project in Zambia (https://apo-opa.co/47HSGRE) is one of the more than 100 projects supported by SEFA since its establishment. In June 2025, the Fund committed to contributing $8 million to a total financing package of $26.5 million for this project, demonstrating its commitment to innovative solutions that advance the energy transition in Africa.The project, led by an independent power producer (IPP) in western Zambia, will supply electricity through the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) under a market-based power purchase agreement with regional electricity trader GreenCo Power Services Ltd. The project will serve as a model for other African countries seeking to attract private capital and promote regional energy integration.

Building resilience

In 2014, the Bank Group launched the Africa Climate Change Fund (ACCF). 11 years later, this multi-donor trust fund is strengthening community-led climate resilience on the continent. Some 33 projects have now received funding of $40.64 million since its launch.

In Djibouti, Assia Obakar Hassan, a mother from the village of Kalaf, embodies the profound transformation of part of the rural north of the country, driven by a regional project (https://apo-opa.co/3Lr17t1) implemented by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and financed by the African Development Bank through the Fund (https://apo-opa.co/4qMgLPS). “Before, farming was an impossible dream. Today, I feed my children thanks to the land,” says Ms Hassan.

This impact is also evident in projects supported by the African Circular Economy Fund (ACEF). The only trust fund dedicated exclusively to integrating the circular economy as a strategy for green and inclusive growth in Africa, the ACEF was created by the African Development Bank in 2022, with support from the Government of Finland, the Nordic Development Fund, and since 2024, the Coca-Cola Foundation.

Officials from the Bank Group recently visited Rwanda to meet with young innovators funded by the African Circular Economy Fund. Among them were Tresor Gashonga and Rafiki Gatsinzi (https://apo-opa.co/3WD8GPI), co-founders of Incuti Foods, which produces chili sauces, providing farmers with a stable market and a means of reducing post-harvest losses – a crucial intervention in a country where around three million tonnes of food are wasted each year. Their sauces are even used in trendy cocktails in Kigali’s lounge bars, proving that circularity can fit perfectly into urban culture.

The African Development Fund’s Climate Action Window, a new major player

In 2022, the African Development Fund, the Bank Group’s concessional window, launched the Climate Action Window to provide concessional financing to the most vulnerable African countries for adaptation, mitigation and technical support. With $429 million in funding, the window aims to mobilise $4 billion by the end of 2025 and $13 billion in the long term, offering rapid and consistent access to climate finance.

In 2024, the African Development Bank Group’s Board of Directors approved more than $31 million in financing (https://apo-opa.co/4oVw2Mu) through the Climate Action Window to strengthen climate change resilience in Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Djibouti and Madagascar.  This project is expected to reduce CO₂ emissions by some 720,000 tonnes and create 180,000 direct jobs, with a particular focus on women and young people. In addition, 90,000 farmers will be trained in climate-smart agricultural practices.

“These initiatives not only respond to climate change, they empower communities to take control of their future. They show that adaptation funding can and should be directed to the vulnerable communities that need it most,” said Anthony Nyong, Director of the Climate Change and Green Growth Department at the African Development Bank Group.    

“The Climate Action Window is more than just a financing mechanism; it is a lifeline for communities that face the harsh realities of climate change every day,” added the senior official.

Several other mechanisms and initiatives that are funded or co-funded contribute to addressing climate challenges:

External climate funds

Climate Investment Funds (CIF) (https://apo-opa.co/49aQK6B)

Global Environment Facility (GEF) (https://apo-opa.co/47Dl1bC)

Green Climate Fund (GCF) (https://apo-opa.co/4oB74Cj)

Bilateral and multi-donor funds hosted by the African Development Bank

Africa Circular Economy Facility (ACEF) (https://apo-opa.co/4qK0UkR)

Africa Climate Change Fund (ACCF) (https://apo-opa.co/47XiPwW)

African Water Facility (AWF) (https://apo-opa.co/4qIJrcs)

Canada-African Development Bank Climate Fund (CACF) (https://apo-opa.co/3WD8H6e)

ClimDev Special Fund for Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4osgdgA)

Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) (https://apo-opa.co/43Xg9Np)

Transition Support Facility (TSF) (https://apo-opa.co/4ozhOkQ)

Urban and Municipal Development Fund (UMDF) (https://apo-opa.co/4ors4v6)

Special initiatives

Adaptation Benefit Mechanism (ABM) (https://apo-opa.co/4qJOvNJ)

Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program (AAAP) (https://apo-opa.co/4qQow7A)

African Circular Economy Alliance (ACEA) (https://apo-opa.co/3JOpkcf)

Africa Climate Risk Insurance Framework for Adaptation (https://apo-opa.co/4qF8IEl) (ACRIFA) Africa Disaster Risk Financing Programme (ADRiFi) (https://apo-opa.co/3LobaPA)

African Financial Alliance on Climate Change (AFAC) (https://apo-opa.co/47qfw18)

African Green Banks Initiative (AGBI) (https://apo-opa.co/4qChRNY)

Africa NDC Hub (https://apo-opa.co/4p0hxqW)

Alliance for Green Infrastructure in Africa (AGIA) (https://apo-opa.co/4oTMXPr)

Desert to Power Initiative (https://apo-opa.co/485Djmj)

Sustainable Bond Program (https://apo-opa.co/49DWjKO)

Great Green Wall Initiative (https://apo-opa.co/47CuL5T)

Green Investment Program for Africa (GIPA) (https://apo-opa.co/47qfwhE)

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

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All Eyes on Africa as United Arab Emirates (UAE) announces $6bn Tourism Investment Plan

Source: APO

As Africa records the fastest tourism growth globally, the UAE is set to inject $6 billion into the continent’s travel and hospitality sector – a move expected to create 70 000 new jobs.

The announcement was made at the recent UAE Africa Tourism Investment Summit 2025 in Dubai, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Organised by the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism in partnership with The Bench as part of Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) World 2025, the event brought together senior government officials, investors, and industry leaders to chart investment priorities and explore opportunities across tourism, infrastructure, aviation, and digital innovation.

On the sidelines, a ministerial roundtable led by H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, gathered ministers from over 20 African nations. The meeting concluded with a joint ministerial statement outlining plans to boost collaboration in various tourism sectors.

“Today, the UAE and Africa stand at a pivotal moment in developing a resilient and sustainable tourism sector,” said H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri. “This milestone is marked by the launch of a new investment mapping featuring diverse tourism projects in aviation, logistics, infrastructure, and the digital sector, with an estimated total value of approximately $6 billion and the potential to generate 70 000 job opportunities across Africa.”

He added: “Africa is home to a wealth of rich and diverse tourism assets – from coastal resorts and pristine beaches to cultural, heritage, and historical landmarks. These unique features present vast opportunities for the UAE business community and serve as a vital gateway for investment and expansion across various tourism activities. We are committed to fully leveraging this platform to transform ideas into tangible and sustainable tourism projects and partnerships that will help shape the future of economic development across the African continent.”

The ministerial statement also emphasised shared goals such as improving tourism infrastructure, expanding air connectivity, and advancing green, inclusive growth through partnerships and SME support.

Looking ahead: FHS Africa 2026

With momentum building from the Dubai summit, the spotlight now shifts to Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa), the continent’s leading forum for hospitality investment and development. Bringing together senior industry leaders, policymakers and investors, the summit aims to accelerate deal-making, foster new partnerships, and shape the future of Africa’s tourism economy.

“FHS Africa will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of hospitality investment across the continent,” said Roy Bannister, Head of Strategic Partnerships for Africa at The Bench. “As we unpack the $6 billion Investment Plan, our focus will be on turning this framework into real projects, partnerships, and opportunities that deliver lasting impact for Africa’s tourism economy.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa).

For Media Enquiries:
Contact Lexi Hall via email on capetown@klebergroup.com
Roy Bannister, Head of Strategic Partnerships for Africa is available for media interviews.

About Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa):
Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa) is the continent’s leading hospitality investment forum, bringing together industry leaders, investors, hotel operators and governments to drive growth, innovation and collaboration across Africa’s tourism and hospitality sector. The event has played a pivotal role in shaping Africa’s hospitality landscape – catalysing billions of dollars in investment, strengthening regional partnerships, and creating a dedicated platform for investors to unlock opportunities in one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.

The next FHS Africa will take place in Nairobi, Kenya, from 31 March to 1 April 2026. More information: www.FutureHospitality.com/Africa

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A caminho da 30.ª Conferência das Nações Unidas sobre Alterações Climáticas (COP30): Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento testa vários instrumentos financeiros para apoiar a luta contra as alterações climáticas

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Oito dos dez países mais afetados pelas alterações climáticas estão em África: secas, ciclones e inundações estão a comprometer a produção agrícola, expondo as populações à insegurança alimentar e à migração induzida pelo clima e pressionando setores essenciais para o desenvolvimento do continente, resultando num desvio significativo da despesa pública. Apesar da falta de recursos, África está a tentar adaptar-se a estes efeitos das alterações climáticas. O continente recebe menos de 3% do financiamento global para o clima, apesar de perder entre 7% e 15% do seu Produto Interno Bruto (PIB) devido às alterações climáticas. 

Dada a urgência da crise climática, especialmente para os países mais vulneráveis, o Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento, a principal instituição financeira de desenvolvimento de África, está fortemente empenhado em apoiar os países africanos no reforço da sua resiliência às alterações climáticas e na transição para vias de desenvolvimento com baixas emissões de carbono. Através de várias iniciativas e instrumentos de financiamento climático, está a ajudar os países africanos a aceder a recursos diretos e flexíveis para implementar os seus compromissos climáticos ao abrigo do Acordo de Paris, incluindo as Contribuições Nacionalmente Determinadas (NDC) e os Planos Nacionais de Adaptação (NAP).

Enquanto Belém, a metrópole brasileira no coração da floresta amazónica, se prepara para acolher a 30.ª Conferência das Nações Unidas sobre Alterações Climáticas (COP30), de 10 a 21 de novembro de 2025, a reunião promete ser decisiva para o futuro do Acordo de Paris – 10 anos após o compromisso mundial de manter o aquecimento global abaixo do limiar crítico de 1,5 °C.

Entre 50 a 60 mil delegados – de chefes de Estado a ministros, especialistas, atores financeiros, setor privado, sociedade civil e comunidades indígenas – são esperados na capital do estado do Pará para tentar reavivar o impulso climático global. As principais prioridades desta COP são acelerar a transição energética, garantir uma transição justa para as nações mais vulneráveis e, acima de tudo, mobilizar financiamento climático em grande escala para as economias em desenvolvimento.

Inovações financeiras do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento

Um dos mecanismos de financiamento climático mais antigos ainda em operação dentro do Grupo Banco é o Fundo de Investimento Climático (CIF). Com um orçamento de 12,5 mil milhões de dólares, o fundo, criado em 2008, apoiou 47 planos de investimento e aprovou 45 projetos desde a sua criação, fornecendo mais de mil milhões de dólares em financiamento ao Banco. Aproveitando os recursos do CIF, o Banco também mobilizou 2,42 mil milhões de dólares adicionais em cofinanciamento.

Este financiamento permitiu aos países africanos de rendimento baixo e médio acelerar os seus esforços de adaptação climática através de programas em tecnologia limpa, acesso a energia limpa, resiliência climática e florestas sustentáveis.

Na República Democrática do Congo, o CIF permitiu a Dorcas Tshabu (http://apo-opa.co/4qMcBaF) realizar um sonho de infância: restaurar a floresta na sua terra natal. Após uma longa espera, ela agora administra uma fazenda a cerca de 20 km de Mbuji-Mayi, no centro do país. “Isto costumava ser savana, por toda a parte. Mas eu transformei-a numa floresta. É o trabalho das minhas próprias mãos! Todos os que passam por aqui apreciam isso. Isso faz-me feliz”, diz Dorcas.

Desde 2021, Dorcas cultivou uma floresta exuberante de 50 hectares com o apoio do Projeto Integrado REDD+ nas bacias de Mbuji-Mayi, Kananga e Kissangai (PIREDD-MBKIS). Este projeto, financiado em 21,5 milhões de euros pelo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento no âmbito do Programa de Investimento Florestal (FIP), abordou os principais fatores de desflorestação e degradação florestal nas três províncias do país.

Criado em 2011, o Fundo de Energia Sustentável para África (SEFA) é também um mecanismo essencial no desenvolvimento de iniciativas de financiamento misto de energia limpa sob os auspícios do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento. Fornece financiamento catalisador para desbloquear investimentos do setor privado em energias renováveis e eficiência energética. O SEFA também disponibiliza assistência técnica e instrumentos financeiros concessionais para remover barreiras de mercado, construir um pipeline de projetos mais robusto e melhorar o perfil de risco-retorno de investimentos individuais. O SEFA apoia intervenções em três prioridades estratégicas: produção de carga básica verde, minirredes verdes e eficiência energética.

O projeto solar Ilute de 32 MW na Zâmbia (http://apo-opa.co/491sW4Z) é um dos mais de 100 projetos apoiados pelo SEFA desde a sua criação. Em junho de 2025, o Fundo comprometeu-se a contribuir com 8 milhões de dólares para um pacote de financiamento total de 26,5 milhões de dólares para este projeto, demonstrando o seu compromisso com soluções inovadoras que promovam a transição energética em África. O projeto, liderado por um produtor independente de energia (IPP) no oeste da Zâmbia, fornecerá eletricidade através do Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) ao abrigo de um acordo de compra de energia baseado no mercado com o comerciante regional de eletricidade GreenCo Power Services Ltd. O projeto servirá de modelo para outros países africanos que procuram atrair capital privado e promover a integração energética regional.

Construir resiliência

Em 2014, o Grupo Banco lançou o Fundo Africano para as Alterações Climáticas (ACCF). Onze anos depois, este fundo fiduciário multidoadores está a reforçar a resiliência climática liderada pelas comunidades no continente. Cerca de 33 projetos receberam financiamento no valor de 40,64 milhões de dólares desde o seu lançamento. 

No Djibuti, Assia Obakar Hassan, uma mãe da aldeia de Kalaf, personifica a profunda transformação de parte da zona rural do norte do país, impulsionada por um projeto regional (http://apo-opa.co/3LoUBmy) implementado pela Autoridade Intergovernamental para o Desenvolvimento (IGAD) e financiado pelo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento através do Fundo (http://apo-opa.co/3JF2ljQ). “Antes, a agricultura era um sonho impossível. Hoje, alimento os meus filhos graças à terra”, afirma Hassan.

Este impacto também é evidente em projetos apoiados pelo Fundo Africano para a Economia Circular (ACEF). Único fundo fiduciário dedicado exclusivamente à integração da economia circular como estratégia para o crescimento verde e inclusivo em África, o ACEF foi criado pelo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento em 2022, com o apoio do Governo da Finlândia, do Fundo Nórdico de Desenvolvimento e, desde 2024, da Fundação Coca-Cola.

Funcionários do Grupo Banco visitaram recentemente o Ruanda para se reunirem com jovens inovadores financiados pelo Fundo Africano para a Economia Circular. Entre eles estavam Tresor Gashonga e Rafiki Gatsinzi (http://apo-opa.co/47u6pMU), cofundadores da Incuti Foods, que produz molhos de pimenta, proporcionando aos agricultores um mercado estável e um meio de reduzir as perdas pós-colheita – uma intervenção crucial num país onde cerca de três milhões de toneladas de alimentos são desperdiçados todos os anos. Os seus molhos são até utilizados em cocktails da moda nos bares de Kigali, provando que a circularidade pode encaixar-se perfeitamente na cultura urbana.

A Janela de Ação Climática do Fundo Africano de Desenvolvimento, um novo interveniente importante

Em 2022, o Fundo Africano de Desenvolvimento, a janela concessional do Grupo Banco, lançou a Janela de Ação Climática para fornecer financiamento concessional aos países africanos mais vulneráveis para adaptação, mitigação e apoio técnico. Com um financiamento de 429 milhões de dólares, a janela tem como objetivo mobilizar 4 mil milhões de dólares até ao final de 2025 e 13 mil milhões de dólares a longo prazo, oferecendo acesso rápido e consistente ao financiamento climático.

Em 2024, o Conselho de Administração do Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento aprovou mais de 31 milhões de dólares em financiamento (http://apo-opa.co/4qKI9xv) através da Janela de Ação Climática para reforçar a resiliência às alterações climáticas na Serra Leoa, Sudão do Sul, Djibuti e Madagáscar. Este projeto deverá reduzir as emissões de CO₂ em cerca de 720 mil toneladas e criar 180 mil empregos diretos, com especial enfoque nas mulheres e nos jovens. Além disso, 90 mil agricultores receberão formação em práticas agrícolas inteligentes em termos climáticos. 

“Estas iniciativas não só respondem às alterações climáticas, como também capacitam as comunidades para assumirem o controlo do seu futuro. Mostram que o financiamento para a adaptação pode e deve ser direcionado para as comunidades vulneráveis que mais precisam dele”, afirmou Anthony Nyong, diretor do Departamento de Alterações Climáticas e Crescimento Verde do Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento.

“A Janela de Ação Climática é mais do que um mecanismo de financiamento; é uma tábua de salvação para as comunidades que enfrentam diariamente as duras realidades das alterações climáticas”, acrescentou o dirigente.

Vários outros mecanismos e iniciativas financiados ou cofinanciados contribuem para enfrentar os desafios climáticos:

Fundos climáticos externos

Fundos de Investimento Climático (CIF) (http://apo-opa.co/4oQE09v)

Fundo Global para o Meio Ambiente (GEF) (http://apo-opa.co/4qKLQ6l)

Fundo Verde para o Clima (GCF) (http://apo-opa.co/4oU2JtA)

Fundos bilaterais e multidoadores administrados pelo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento

Mecanismo Africano de Economia Circular (ACEF) (http://apo-opa.co/3JLWdGw)

Fundo Africano para as Alterações Climáticas (ACCF) (http://apo-opa.co/4qQspt6)

Mecanismo Africano para a Água (AWF) (http://apo-opa.co/43PHdht)

Fundo Climático Canadá-Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (CACF) (http://apo-opa.co/43f3ftX)

Fundo Especial ClimDev para África (http://apo-opa.co/3WGKH2c)

Fundo para a Energia Sustentável em África (SEFA) (http://apo-opa.co/3LobZYF)

Mecanismo de Apoio à Transição (TSF) (http://apo-opa.co/43OKNZj)

Fundo de Desenvolvimento Urbano e Municipal (UMDF) (http://apo-opa.co/3Lsdjtp)

Iniciativas especiais

Mecanismo de Benefícios de Adaptação (ABM) (http://apo-opa.co/4p1yfWV)

Programa Africano de Aceleração da Adaptação (AAAP) (http://apo-opa.co/4p0kZSq)

Aliança Africana para a Economia Circular (ACEA) (http://apo-opa.co/4qCnoEe)

Quadro Africano de Seguros contra Riscos Climáticos para Adaptação (http://apo-opa.co/4oqROrF) (ACRIFA) Programa Africano de Financiamento de Riscos de Desastres (ADRiFi) (http://apo-opa.co/4oZok48)

Aliança Financeira Africana para as Alterações Climáticas (AFAC) (http://apo-opa.co/43bnqsQ)

Iniciativa Africana de Bancos Verdes (AGBI) (http://apo-opa.co/4oR7LXN)

Centro NDC para África (http://apo-opa.co/4oUYazm)

Aliança para Infraestruturas Verdes em África (AGIA) (http://apo-opa.co/4pfYA3F)

Iniciativa Desert to Power (http://apo-opa.co/4othCU5)

Programa de Obrigações Sustentáveis (http://apo-opa.co/3JvllkN)

Iniciativa Grande Muralha Verde (http://apo-opa.co/4ok8hxI)

Programa de Investimento Verde para África (GIPA) (http://apo-opa.co/4oU2NJQ)

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

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President Ramaphosa confident in panel tasked with selecting new NDPP

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the decision to appoint an Advisory Panel for the Selection of the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) is aimed at instilling public confidence in the process and the person who will fill the vacancy.

The President was speaking during a Questions for Oral Reply session in the National Assembly on Thursday.

Current NDPP, Advocate Shamila Batohi, is set to retire from the position in January 2026.

“This process is transparent and helps to build public confidence in the appointment of a person in this critical office.

“I selected a panel that would combine a variety of skills and experiences. These include the public service administration, financial management, legal and jurisprudence, administration of justice and the promotion of equality and human rights,” the President said.

The panel constituted by the President includes “representatives from the national executive, chapter 9 institutions and legal bodies”.

“I chose the heads of certain Chapter 9 institutions for the panel because these are independent bodies that were established in terms of our constitution to support and to protect South Africa’s constitutional democracy.

“They are required to always act impartially and subject to only the constitution and the law – ensuring that their decisions are made without fear, favour or prejudice.

“They are therefore well positioned to understand the qualities and capabilities expected of an NDPP,” the President noted.

Furthermore, legal practitioners are included in the panel to ensure that candidates are evaluated by experienced people in the legal and criminal justice system. 

“And in addition to their legal acumen, candidates must be able to demonstrate qualities and capabilities relating to leadership, strategic management, financial management, ethical leadership and broad understanding of our criminal justice system.

“Based on their assessment, the panel will submit a shortlist of recommended candidates to me for consideration and appointment as empowered by the constitution and the NPA Act,” President Ramaphosa said.

Members of the panel – which is chaired by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi – are:

  • Chairperson of the South African Human Rights Commission, Andrew Christoffel Nissen.
  • Chairperson of the Commission for Gender Equality, Nthabiseng Sepanya-Mogale.
  • Auditor-General of South Africa, Tsakani Maluleke.
  • Chairperson of the Public Service Commission, Professor Somadoda Fikeni.
  • President of the Black Lawyers Association, Nkosana Mvundlela.
  • Representative of the National Association of Democratic Lawyers, Machini Motloung

“The panel that I have appointed are all people of great integrity and great eminence. So whatever decision will come out of the panel will be the panel’s decision. I’m assured about that.

“The minister who knows all the contours of the work that needs to be done by this key official, will play a critical role as chair of the panel so that even if they veer into areas that are not prescribed…she will be able to give guidance. 

“The panel itself will take decisions that will then be put forward to me. I have full confidence in the ability of the minister ability to do so,” President Ramaphosa said.

The closing date for applications and nominations is expected to be this week, as announced by the Justice Department last month. – SAnews.gov.za

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PRASA adds trains for Carling Knockout semi-final fans

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, November 6, 2025

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has announced an additional train service for spectators attending the highly anticipated Carling Black Label Knockout Semi-Final between Orlando Pirates and Richards FC this weekend.

The match will take place at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, 8 November 2025.

“To ease traffic congestion and to ensure an enjoyable experience for fans, PRASA will operate a dedicated train service to Moses Mabhida Station. The special train service will be at a cost of R20 per return ticket for all spectators from their station of departure to Moses Mabhida and back. 

“PRASA encourages all spectators to familiarise themselves with the scheduled service for seamless travel,” the agency said on Thursday.

Trains will be available from the following operational lines: Umlazi, KwaMashu, Crossmoor, Cato Ridge, Bridge City, Pinetown and the South Coast.

The train shuttle service from Durban Station to Moses Mabhida Station will be available every 30 minutes from 11:55am to 2:25pm and resume back from Moses Mabhida Station to Durban Station from 5:13pm to 6:43pm.

For spectators who wish to park at the stations and utilise the train, there will be a park and ride service between Durban Station to Moses Mabhida Station. 

The Park and Ride service will be included in the train ticket price of R20.

Spectators are encouraged to arrive early to purchase their return tickets at stations and are advised to adhere to the train schedules, to ensure timely arrival and departure from Moses Mabhida stadium.

The information on the train schedules and park and ride facilities will be shared on X social media pages: @PRASA_Group & @Metrorail_kzn.

“PRASA is committed to providing safe, reliable, and Efficient transport solutions for all South Africans. PRASA wishes to emphasise that all rail safety regulations must be adhered to at all times on board Isitimela Sabantu as well as at all stations,” the agency said. –SAnews.gov.za

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SASSA urges use of registered cellphone numbers for SRD grant

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, November 6, 2025

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is urging all COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant (R370) applicants to use cell phone numbers that are registered under their names to do official application for the grant. 

In a statement on Thursday, the Agency said the cell phone number and banking details are crucial particulars for the application processes. 

“All applicants and beneficiaries must be aware that using your number will assist to monitor, check the progress of the application and receive notifications from the Agency that might need the applicant or beneficiary’s attention. 

“These notifications include the messages to do verification process. Without exercising the verification process the application will be unsuccessful and no grant will be paid,” the Agency said. 

The Agency said that verification exercise ensures that the grant is paid to the right person and assists in fighting against fraudulent activities. 

“When the banking details do not belong to the applicant the system will not verify the payment. Once the banking details have been verified and confirmed the grant will be received from next pay run.

“To avoid unnecessary delays with your application, applicants must provide accurate information,” the Agency said. 

To apply for this grant visit https://srd.sassa.gov.za select either South African ID Holders or Asylum Seekers and Special Permit Holders and follow the prompts.

For more information contact toll free during working days/hours 0800 60 10 11 during working hours Monday – Friday. – SAnews.gov.za

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L’UNION AMAN annonce les lauréats de la 4ème édition du prix annuel de l’UNION AMAN 2025

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

L’UNION AMAN, le premier forum professionnel regroupant les assureurs et les réassureurs de risques commerciaux et non commerciaux des pays membres de l’Organisation de la coopération islamique (OCI), a annoncé les lauréats de la 4ème édition de Prix de l’UNION AMAN 2025 lors de la 15ème Assemblée générale annuelle de l’UNION AMAN, gracieusement organisé par la Société islamique pour l’assurance des investissements et des crédits à l’exportation (SIACE) (https://ICIEC.IsDB.org/), membre du groupe de la Banque islamique de développement. L’annonce a été faite par Dr Khalid Khalafalla, PDG de la SIACE.  

Les prix de l’UNION AMAN récompensent les réalisations et les contributions exceptionnelles des institutions membres et des professionnels des secteurs de crédit à l’exportation, de l’investissement et de l’assurance commerciale. Les prix visent à récompenser l’excellence, à encourager l’innovation et à promouvoir les meilleures pratiques qui renforcent les capacités institutionnelles et favorisent le développement durable au sein de la communauté de l’UNION AMAN.  

Le prix de la performance exceptionnelle récompense les initiatives qui illustrent l’excellence en matière de performance opérationnelle, de développement institutionnel et de contribution aux objectifs globaux de l’UNION AMAN.  

À l’issue d’une évaluation approfondie, le jury a sélectionné Saudi Eximbank comme lauréate du Prix de la performance exceptionnelle 2025. Le programme d’études supérieures de Saudi Eximbank a été reconnu pour son modèle innovant et évolutif qui renforce les capacités institutionnelles, stimule la croissance des entreprises et contribue au développement social et économique des pays membres. 

«Le programme d’études supérieures des pionniers de l’exportation reflète l’essence même de ce que représente l’UNION AMAN: la collaboration, l’innovation et le renforcement des capacités. En autonomisant la prochaine génération de professionnels et en renforçant l’écosystème d’exportation, ces initiatives contribuent directement à la croissance durable de nos pays membres et renforcent notre mission de soutenir un développement inclusif et résilient.», a déclaré Dr Khalid Khalafalla, PDG de la SIACE.  

Le prix du meilleur article de recherche ou de la meilleure thèse de l’année récompense la recherche universitaire et professionnelle exceptionnelle qui fait progresser le leadership intellectuel dans les domaines du crédit à l’exportation, de l’investissement et du financement du commerce. Cette année, le jury a décerné à la compagnie Jordan Loan Guarantee Corporation (JLGC) le prix du meilleur article de recherche ou de la meilleure thèse de l’année 2025. La recherche lauréate a été honorée pour sa contribution innovante et opportune à l’évolution du paysage de la finance durable, offrant des informations exploitables qui s’alignent sur la mission de l’UNION AMAN visant à favoriser la croissance économique durable et la résilience au sein des États membres.  

À l’occasion de ce prix, M. Mourad Mizouri – Secrétaire général de l’UNION AMAN – a déclaré: «La reconnaissance de cette recherche souligne l’engagement de l’UNION AMAN à promouvoir l’élaboration de politiques fondées sur des données probantes et du partage de connaissances. Il est essentiel d’encourager la recherche et le leadership intellectuel pour créer des institutions plus fortes et plus agiles, capables de relever les défis et de saisir les opportunités émergentes à l’échelle mondiale.»  

Les prix de l’UNION AMAN 2025 réaffirment l’engagement collectif de l’Union en faveur de l’excellence, de l’innovation et de la croissance durable dans l’ensemble de l’écosystème du crédit à l’exportation et de l’assurance des investissements. Grâce à ces prix, l’UNION AMAN continue de reconnaître et d’inspirer des initiatives qui font progresser sa mission en matière de promouvoir la coopération économique et la résilience entre les États membres de l’OCI.  

Distribué par APO Group pour Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC).

Contact médias :
Aman Union, Secrétariat général d’Aman Union 
Djeddah, Royaume d’Arabie saoudite 
Courriel : iciec.ausecretariat@isdb.org 
Site web : www.AMANUnion.org 

À propos de l’UNION AMAN :
L’UNION AMAN est un forum professionnel regroupant les assureurs et les réassureurs des risques commerciaux et non commerciaux des pays membres de l’Organisation de la coopération islamique (OCI) et de la Société arabe de garantie des investissements et des crédits à l’exportation (DHAMAN). L’Union AMAN a été créée le 28 octobre 2009, suite à un accord bilatéral entre DHAMAN et la Société islamique d’assurance des investissements et des crédits à l’exportation (SIACE) pour unir leurs efforts afin de créer une plate-forme qui renforce la coopération entre les assureurs et les réassureurs opérant dans leurs pays membres respectifs.  

Media files

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AMAN UNION Announces Winners of the 2025 4th Aman Union Awards

Source: APO

The  AMAN UNION , the leading professional forum for commercial and non-commercial insurance and reinsurance companies across the member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), announced the winners of the  2025 4th AMAN Union Awards  during the  15th AMAN Union Annual General Meeting , graciously hosted by the  Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) (https://ICIEC.IsDB.org/), a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group. The announcement was made by Dr. Khalid Khalafalla, Chief Executive Officer of ICIEC. 

The AMAN Union Awards celebrate outstanding achievements and contributions among member institutions and professionals within the export credit, investment, and trade insurance sectors. The awards aim to recognize excellence, encourage innovation, and promote best practices that strengthen institutional capacity and foster sustainable development across the AMAN Union community. 

The Exceptional Performance Award honors initiatives that exemplify excellence in operational performance, institutional development, and contribution to AMAN Union’s overarching objectives. 

Following a comprehensive evaluation process, the jury selected Saudi Eximbank as the recipient of the 2025 Exceptional Performance Award. The Saudi Eximbank graduate program was recognized for its pioneering and scalable model that enhances institutional capacity, drives business growth, and contributes to social and economic development within member countries. 

 “The Export Pioneers Graduate Program reflects the very essence of what the AMAN Union stands for—collaboration, innovation, and capacity-building. By empowering the next generation of professionals and strengthening the export ecosystem, such initiatives contribute directly to the sustainable growth of our member countries and reinforce our mission to support inclusive and resilient development.” said Dr. Khalid Khalafalla, Chief Executive Officer of ICIEC 

The Best Research Paper or Thesis of the Year Award recognizes exceptional academic and professional research that advances thought leadership in export credit, investment, and trade finance. This year, the jury selected Jordan Loan Guarantee Corporation (JLGC) as the winner of the 2025 Best Research Paper or Thesis of the Year Award. The winning research was commended for its innovative and timely contribution to the evolving landscape of sustainable finance, offering actionable insights that align with AMAN Union’s mission to foster sustainable economic growth and resilience across member states. 

Commenting on this award, Mr. Mourad Mizouri, Secretary-General of AMAN Union “The recognition of this research underscores AMAN Union’s commitment to promoting evidence-based policymaking and knowledge sharing. Encouraging research and thought leadership is key to building stronger, more agile institutions capable of addressing emerging global challenges and opportunities.” 

The 2025 AMAN Union Awards reaffirm the Union’s collective dedication to excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth across the export credit and investment insurance ecosystem. Through these awards, AMAN Union continues to recognize and inspire initiatives that advance its mission of promoting economic cooperation and resilience among OIC member states.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC).

Media Contact:
Aman Union, General Secretariat of Aman Union 
Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 
Email: iciec.ausecretariat@isdb.org 
Website: www.AMANUnion.org 

About AMAN UNION: 
The AMAN Union is a professional forum that brings together insurers and reinsurers covering commercial and non-commercial risks in the member countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Arab Investment and Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (Dhaman). The Union was established on October 28, 2009, following a bilateral agreement between Dhaman and the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) to unify their efforts in creating a platform that enhances cooperation among insurers and reinsurers operating within their respective member countries. 

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Egypt: National Investment Bank Receives International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Certification in Quality of Financial Services

Source: APO


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H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning and Economic Development and International Cooperation and Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the National Investment Bank (NIB), witnessed the NIB’s celebration of receiving the International Quality Certificate (ISO 9001-2015) for the quality of financial services provided for national investments. This comes within the framework of the Bank’s continuous efforts for development and restructuring to maximize its role in achieving development and enhancing the efficiency of public investments. The celebration was attended by Mr. Ashraf Negm, NIB’s Vice Chairman and Managing Director, members of the Board of Directors, and the executive leadership of the Bank.

Dr. Rania Al-Mashat congratulated the NIB’s Board of Directors on receiving the ISO certificate for the quality of financial services provided for national investments. She mentioned that this reflects the continuation of the development and restructuring efforts that began over the past years.

Minister Al-Mashat added that it also strengthens the Bank’s role in achieving the objectives of governance, increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of public investments, and monitoring them. The Bank conducts desk and field monitoring of these public investments and issues reports and recommendations regarding the allocation of resources and their direction towards priority productive sectors and projects with economic and social viability, to ensure the social and economic returns of the projects in accordance with the targets of the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation.

Dr. Rania Al-Mashat reaffirmed that the National Investment Bank has witnessed a real transformation in the recent period through internal and external development and the application of the latest technological systems to develop and advance performance effectiveness, ensuring it remains a major supporter for the implementation of the State’s economic and social development plan. She added that the government is simultaneously working on settling financial overlaps between NIB and national entities, which contributes to boosting the Bank’s financial solvency, in addition to maximizing the return on its investments.

For his part, Mr. Ashraf Negm, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, emphasized that the NIB’s development is not limited to physical location development, but extends to improving performance and utilizing a massive digital transformation system that is comparable to the digital transformation systems in the best similar institutions. This system, in turn, allows for the availability of a large amount of data regarding projects included in the State’s economic and social development plan.

Mr. Negm pointed out that the Bank’s achievement of the ISO certificate comes within its pursuit to develop its role and affirm its competitive opportunities in its field of work. To this end, it organized intensive training courses and workshops to close the gaps inferred from studies prepared by specialized companies in this regard. Numerous workshops and training programs were also held on the basic concepts of the Quality Management System, which is a vital strategic tool that contributes to achieving institutional excellence and ensuring the sustainability of success in competitive business environments, as well as the requirements for obtaining the international certificate and the components of the required specifications regarding the Quality Management System.

NIB’s step of obtaining the International Quality Certificate (ISO 9001-2015) in the quality of financial services provided for national investments comes in the framework of keeping pace with the comprehensive structural reforms undertaken by the State and its various institutions. The Bank has recently carried out many reforms that have profoundly impacted its mandated role with high efficiency.

It is worth noting that the National Investment Bank was established under Law 119 of 1980 with the purpose of financing all projects included in the State’s general economic and social development plan, by contributing to the capital of these projects, extending loans, or other means, and monitoring the implementation of these projects. The Bank is considered one of the State’s important economic and investment arms for implementing its economic and social development plans.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation – Egypt.

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Civil society delivers C20 Political Declaration to G20 Leaders

Source: Government of South Africa

As the world prepares for the upcoming G20 Summit, global civil society has issued a call-to-action urging world leaders to commit to solidarity, equality, and sustainability as the cornerstones of a just global order. 

Representing more than 3,000 civil society organisations across the world, the Civil 20 – (C20) the official civil society engagement group of the G20 – today presented its Political Declaration and Communiqué to G20 leaders, outlining key recommendations to reform global systems and advance people-centred development. 

Speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria, C20 Sherpa Mabalane Mfundisi said the declaration reflects the lived realities and policy priorities of communities most affected by inequality, exclusion, and crisis.

The declaration marks the culmination of South Africa’s G20 Presidency and draws from the work of 14 C20 working groups shaped by feminist, youth, disability, Indigenous and LGBTQI+ perspectives.

“The wellbeing of people and the health of the planet must be at the centre of the global economic agenda. The time for incrementalism has passed. The path ahead must be grounded in participation, redistribution, and environmental justice,” the declaration states.

A blueprint for a just and sustainable world

The C20 communiqué calls for far-reaching reforms across five key pillars: economic justice, climate action, technology and cultural sovereignty, food and care economies, and civic participation.

Among its major demands, the C20 calls for:

  • Reform of global financial institutions to reflect the economic contributions of the Global South, including democratic governance of the IMF and World Bank.
  • Debt cancellation and establishment of fair, UN-led mechanisms to manage sovereign debt, coupled with reparative and redistributive financing models.
  • A time-bound transition away from fossil fuels, anchored in climate justice and community-defined just transition plans.
  • Investment in inclusive education, technology governance, and indigenous knowledge systems to promote decolonised, future-ready societies.
  • Protection of civic space and defenders, and creation of a Permanent G20 Gender Equality Taskforce to advance women’s representation.

The declaration also urges world leaders to reject extractive economic models that erode local resources, to recognise local and Indigenous knowledge systems as engines of climate and economic resilience, and to embed equity in global migration and environmental governance.

As the C20 prepares for its official summit from 12 – 14 November 2025, the organisation says its message to the G20 is clear: the future is political, and justice delayed is justice denied.

“We present this declaration not just to G20 governments but to the people of the world, as a manifesto for just futures. Let this be the year civil society was not simply heard but heeded,” Mfundisi said. 

The C20’s Political Declaration and Communiqué will inform discussions at the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit, as South Africa concludes its term as G20 President. 

“The future is not sustainable without justice. No one must be left behind. The question is: not whether the G20 has been told – but whether they will act on the clear collective demands of the constituencies they serve,” Mfundisi said. 

The 14 Policy Briefs and 2 Statements of Intent that form an integral part of this Political Declaration/ Communiquè can be found on this link : https://showmeyournumbersa-my.sharepoint.com/:f:/g/personal/mabalane_showmeyournumber_org_za2/EixLqldt9M1OiYJXIv7lskABL3ZvvWuFZuscm3XwCIxVjA?e=qMvFWA – SAnews.gov.za