Category: MIL-OSI

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Merck Foundation and African First Ladies are Making History in Africa by Training the First Oncologists and Cancer Care teams in their Countries

Source: APO

  • Merck Foundation together with African First Ladies and Ministries of Health continues to build cancer care capacity by providing around 260 Scholarships of One-year Clinical Training in many oncology sub- specialties, and One year and Two year Post Graduate Diploma and Master Degree of Cancer and Clinical Oncology, Medical Oncology and Pain Management.
  • Merck Foundation is making history in Africa by training the First African Oncologists and First Cancer Care Teams in Countries such as The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, Malawi, Niger, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and more.
  • Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO together with African First Ladies recently released “Ray of Hope” children’s storybook and Animation Film for Cancer Awareness in three languages. Watch ‘Ray of Hope’ animation film here: https://apo-opa.co/4wj0apB

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, marks ‘World Cancer Day 2026’ together with Africa’s First Ladies and Ministries of Health by continuing to build and advance cancer care capacity through their Cancer Access Program, with the aim to increase the limited number of Oncologists in Africa.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.) explained, “At Merck Foundation, we mark World Cancer Day through our sustained, everyday efforts to transform cancer care in Africa by addressing one of its most critical gaps: late diagnosis and the shortage of trained specialists.

Together with my dear sisters, African First Ladies, we have strengthened cancer care capacity in the continent by providing 258 Oncology Scholarships for healthcare providers from 34 African and Asian countries, significantly increasing the number of trained oncologists and developing the multidisciplinary cancer care teams. In several of these countries, there wasn’t even a single oncologist. We are very proud that we are making history by training the first oncologists and first multidisciplinary cancer care teams in many countries like The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, Niger, and many more.”

Merck Foundation in total provided more than 2500 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialities.

“Merck Foundation remains committed to transforming the landscape of patient care in general, and cancer care in particular, leading Africa toward a healthier future,” Dr. Rasha Kelej further explained.

As part of their Cancer Access Program, Merck Foundation has to date provided 258 Scholarships for healthcare providers from 34 countries as per the following:

Merck Foundation is establishing Multidisciplinary Oncology Care teams in many African countries by providing scholarships of One year clinical training in most of oncology sub- specialties such as; Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Pediatrics Oncology, Gynecology Oncology, Breast Oncology, Haemato-Oncology, Orthopedic Oncology, Palliative Care, Pathology Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Research in Oncology, Genital Urinary oncology, Advanced Cytopathology Training, Interventional Radiology, Radiation Technician, Laboratory Technician, Oncology Nursing.

Moreover, Merck Foundation provides One-year and Two-year Post Graduate Diploma and Master Degree of Cancer and Clinical Oncology, Medical Oncology and Pain Management from reputed Universities in UK like University of South Wales, University of Buckingham, Queen Mary University of London, and Cardiff University.

The 34 countries include Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

According to WHO data (2022), Africa sees roughly 1.1 million new cancer cases and up to about 700,000 cancer deaths each year. Cancer mortality rates in Africa are much higher than in many other regions of the world, reflecting late diagnosis, limited access to care, and gaps in health systems. Therefore, Merck Foundation’s oncology scholarships play a critically important role in strengthening cancer care capacity across the continent.

Dr. Rasha Kelej further shared, “Nearly two-thirds of cancer cases can be successfully treated when diagnosed early, and up to one-third can be prevented by reducing key risk factors such as exposure to radiation, certain infections, and lifestyle-related causes. To raise awareness about it, we have recently launched a children storybook and its adaptive animation film “Ray of Hope”, in partnership with African First Ladies. The story deals with childhood cancer and highlights the critical importance of early detection and access to well-trained cancer care teams capable of recognizing early warning signs.”

Read ‘Ray of Hope’ storybook here: https://apo-opa.co/4npV5b6

Watch ‘Ray of Hope’ animation film here: https://apo-opa.co/4wj0apB

Merck Foundation has also created awareness materials including awareness leaflets and videos on Cancer Prevention and Early Detection.

Dr Judith Mkwaila, Merck Foundation Alumni from Malawi shares, “It was a great honor and privilege to be awarded the Merck Foundation Scholarship to pursue the Surgical Oncology fellowship training program at Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth, India. The fellowship gave me both, theoretical and hands-on training in complex oncological procedures for head and neck cancers, breast, upper gastrointestinal and colorectal cancers. I was exposed to a multidisciplinary team approach in cancer care hence deepening my knowledge and skills in multimodality approach to cancer treatment for both curative and palliative purposes. Due to the knowledge and skills acquired through the training, I was able to start a General Surgical Clinic and become the First and Only Female Chief Surgeon at the Mzuzu Central Hospital. I am very thankful to Merck Foundation for the opportunity given to me to pursue this fellowship program and for continuing this noble cause of increasing access to high quality cancer care.”

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/3QStt29
X: https://apo-opa.co/4dir4Fz
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4uGPKyx
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4tlB5HG
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4ddMROq
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4tm4K3w
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4uyC0pj

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/3QStt29), X (https://apo-opa.co/4dir4Fz), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4tlB5HG), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4uGPKyx), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4ddMROq) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4tm4K3w).

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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Seychelles participates in United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) forum marking the International Day for Small Island Developing States

Source: APO


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Mr. Georges Tirant, Ambassador of Seychelles to France and Permanent Delegate of Seychelles to UNESCO, took part in the high-level panel on “Partnerships and Financing”, held at UNESCO Headquarters to mark the International Day for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Ambassador Tirant highlighted key achievements in advancing the SIDS agenda, including the establishment of the SIDS Group, the Group of Friends of SIDS, and the development of dedicated strategies. He reiterated the importance of recognising SIDS as a priority group within UNESCO, supported by a dedicated Director, to strengthen advocacy for climate action and financing.

A central objective of Seychelles’ participation was to promote the country’s World Heritage nomination for the Mission Ruins of Venn’s Town, which would become Seychelles’ first historic site inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Ambassador underscored the significance of this nomination for safeguarding Seychelles’ cultural heritage and enhancing global recognition of its historical legacy.

He also recalled Seychelles’ leadership in innovative financing, notably the 2018 Blue Bond, which mobilised capital for marine and ocean-based projects delivering environmental, economic, and climate benefits. He further emphasised the importance of implementing the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) across global decision-making processes.

The panel featured senior representatives from UNESCO, the European Union, Australia, and regional organisations, and was moderated by the Co-Chairs of the Group of Friends of SIDS.

An exhibition showcasing SIDS cultural heritage was held alongside the event. In collaboration with the Seychellois diaspora, the Embassy of Seychelles in Paris presented a stand featuring traditional Seychellois culinary dishes.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Republic of Seychelles.

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South Africa to mark International Day of Plant Health in Mpumalanga

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa to mark International Day of Plant Health in Mpumalanga

The Department of Agriculture, in partnership with the Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs, will commemorate the 2026 International Day of Plant Health (IDPH) in Mbombela.

The International Day of Plant Health is observed annually on 12 May to raise global awareness on how protecting plant health can end hunger, reduce poverty, protect the environment, and boost economic development.

The event will take place at the Ehlanzeni District Office Disaster Management Centre and forms part of global efforts to promote plant health and biosecurity.

The International Day of Plant Health was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly to raise global awareness on how protecting plant health can help end hunger, reduce poverty, protect biodiversity and the environment, and boost economic development.

This year’s commemoration will be held under the theme “Plant Biosecurity for Food Security”, highlighting the importance of safeguarding crops and natural vegetation from pests and diseases.

The initiative also supports the objectives of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Goal 2, which aims to achieve zero hunger.

The department said the event seeks to increase awareness among policymakers, industry stakeholders and the public about the need to protect plant resources, especially in the context of growing international trade in plants and plant products.

“The IDPH is further envisaged to assist in minimising the risk of spreading plant pests as a result of international trade in plants and plant products and foster the implementation of the International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM),” the department said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Le secrétaire général de Organisation des producteurs africains de pétrole (APPO), M. Ghezali, prendra la parole lors de African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 alors que la Banque africaine de l’énergie s’apprête à voir le jour

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Farid Ghezali, secrétaire général de l’Organisation des producteurs africains de pétrole (APPO), prendra la parole lors de l’African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, qui se tiendra du 12 au 16 octobre au Cap. M. Ghezali dirige cet organisme panafricain qui, aux côtés de la Banque africaine d’import-export (Afrexibank), est à la tête de la Banque africaine de l’énergie (AEB) – une institution historique qui devrait devenir opérationnelle d’ici juin 2026 à Abuja, au Nigeria. Sa participation à l’AEW place l’évolution de l’architecture financière africaine au cœur de l’ordre du jour de l’événement.

Fondée à Lagos en 1987, l’APPO est passée de huit États membres fondateurs à 18, représentant l’ensemble des pays producteurs de pétrole d’Afrique, de l’Algérie et du Nigeria au nord et à l’ouest jusqu’à la Namibie et l’Afrique du Sud au sud. Basée à Brazzaville, au Congo, l’organisation a fait l’objet d’une réforme majeure en 2019, élargissant son mandat au-delà de la coordination des marchés pour faciliter activement l’investissement et le financement à travers le continent. L’AEB est à ce jour le résultat le plus significatif de ce mandat élargi.

La banque est conçue pour combler le vide financier créé par le retrait des institutions occidentales des projets pétroliers et gaziers africains. Avec plus de 150 projets essentiels au point mort à travers le continent en raison de déficits de capitaux, le mandat de l’AEB couvre l’ensemble de la chaîne de valeur, de l’exploration en amont et des infrastructures intermédiaires jusqu’à la distribution en aval. Créée avec une capitalisation initiale de 5 milliards de dollars, la banque vise 10 milliards de dollars de déploiements dans la phase 1, avec un objectif à plus long terme de lever 15 milliards de dollars pour des projets pétroliers et gaziers d’ici 2030. Le Nigeria a remis le siège de la banque à Abuja à l’APPO et à Afrexibank en février 2026, marquant ainsi une étape cruciale vers son lancement opérationnel.

Au-delà du financement direct de projets, M. Ghezali a souligné le potentiel de l’AEB à transformer la manière dont les compagnies pétrolières nationales africaines (NOC) accèdent aux capitaux. Les 18 SNP de l’APPO ont historiquement opéré sans plateforme financière commune, ce qui a limité leur capacité collective à attirer des investissements à grande échelle. La banque devrait soutenir les introductions en bourse des SNP, en connectant les producteurs souverains aux marchés de capitaux et aux fonds souverains à grande échelle, tout en visant à unifier la tarification intra-africaine du pétrole et du gaz afin de générer jusqu’à 30 % d’économies sur les importations d’énergie dans les États membres.

« L’AEB représente plus qu’une nouvelle institution financière. C’est une déclaration selon laquelle l’Afrique entend contrôler les conditions de son propre développement énergétique », a déclaré NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie. « L’APPO a passé des années à jeter les bases institutionnelles et à harmoniser les positions des États membres pour rendre ce projet crédible. »

L’AEW 2026 – le plus grand rassemblement africain consacré à l’énergie – réunira des décideurs politiques, des développeurs de projets, des financiers et des opérateurs afin d’évaluer comment l’arrivée de l’AEB redéfinit le paysage du financement énergétique du continent. L’intervention de M. Ghezali devrait figurer parmi les sessions les plus marquantes de l’événement, alors que le secteur pétrolier et gazier africain traverse une phase de transition décisive dans le mode de financement de ses projets.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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Speech by the Deputy Minister in The Presidency Nonceba Mhlauli on the occasion of the Cyber Lab handover at Paballelo Senior Secondary School

Source: President of South Africa –

Honourable Executive Mayor, Cllr Kazi
Programme Director, Mrs Mazaleni
Principal of Paballelo High School, Gudula
Representatives from the School Governing Body
Distinguished representatives from HUAWEI, especially Deputy CEO Mr Charles Cheng
Representatives from the School District Office
Educators and staff members
Parents and guardians
Members of the Representative Council of Learners
Learners of Paballelo Senior Secondary School
Ladies and gentlemen
Good afternoon,

It is a true honour and deeply personal privilege for me to stand before you today at Paballelo High School.

This school holds a very special place in my heart because this is the very school from which I matriculated. Returning here today, as Deputy Minister in the Presidency, is both humbling and emotional. I am very glad to be back at the institution that helped shape my journey and laid the foundation for my future.

Coming back to these grounds reminds me of the dreams we carried as young learners, the challenges we faced, and the educators who believed in us and encouraged us to aim higher.

And today is no ordinary day, Programme Director. Today marks 30 years since the South African Constitution was adopted by the National Assembly and formally laid the foundation for the democratic South Africa we know today.

This milestone invites all of us, especially young people, to reflect on where this country comes from and where it is going. It reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom, dignity, equality, and justice so that future generations could enjoy opportunities that many were once denied.

It is for this reason that the ongoing review of the history curriculum by the Department of Basic Education is so important. As a country, we must ensure that our young people understand the full story of our nation, our struggles, our triumphs, and the lessons of our past. History is not only about remembering where we come from, it is also about shaping the kind of future we want to build together as South Africans.
 
Today’s handover ceremony is therefore more than just an official event. It is a meaningful investment in the future of the young people of this community.
I would like to extend sincere appreciation to HUAWEI for partnering with government and the school in support of education and development. Partnerships such as these demonstrate the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in creating opportunities for our learners.

Education remains one of the most powerful tools we have to transform lives, fight inequality, and build a capable generation that can contribute meaningfully to our country’s development.

To the learners of Paballelo High School, I want to say this:
Your circumstances do not define your destiny. I stand before you today as proof that greatness can emerge from this very school and this very community. 
Remain disciplined, work hard, respect your educators and parents, and never stop believing in your potential.

South Africa needs your energy, your ideas, your innovation, and your leadership.

To the educators and staff, thank you for the critical role you continue to play in shaping young minds, often under difficult circumstances. Your commitment does not go unnoticed.

I would also like to encourage all learners here today who are 16 years and older to register to vote. Your voice matters, your future matters, and your participation in our democracy matters. Young people must play an active role in shaping the future of our country. Do not wait until others make decisions on your behalf. Register, participate, and make your voices heard.

To the matric class of 2026, I want to encourage you to make full use of the opportunities that this new lab and its resources will provide. Use this facility to research career opportunities, apply to universities and colleges on time, and prepare yourselves for the future economy. Technology is a gateway to opportunity, and you must use it to unlock your full potential.

Allow me also to extend a sincere word of gratitude to HUAWEI Deputy CEO, Mr Charles Cheng, for your support and commitment to education development in our country. Your contribution today will make a meaningful difference in the lives of many learners at Paballelo High School. We value this partnership and your investment in the future of our young people.
 
As government, we remain committed to improving educational outcomes and ensuring that learners, particularly in underserved communities, have access to opportunities and resources that prepare them for the future.

I once again thank everyone who made today possible and congratulate Paballelo Senior Secondary School on this important occasion.

I am proud to be home.

I thank you.

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Constitution laid the foundation for a democratic SA

Source: Government of South Africa

Constitution laid the foundation for a democratic SA

As South Africa marks 30 years since the South African Constitution was adopted by the National Assembly, Deputy Minister in the Presidency Nonceba Mhlauli said the milestone “invites all of us, especially young people, to reflect on where this country comes from and where it is going”.

Speaking during the handing over of Cyber Lab at Paballelo Senior Secondary School, Mhlauli told the learners that the day reminded the country of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom, dignity, equality and justice so that future generations could enjoy opportunities that many were once denied.

“It is for this reason that the ongoing review of the history curriculum by the Department of Basic Education is so important,” she said.

Mhlauli said South Africa must ensure that young people understand the full story of the nation, its struggles, its triumphs and the lessons of the past.

“History is not only about remembering where we come from, it is also about shaping the kind of future we want to build together as South Africans,” the Deputy Minister said.

The Department of Basic Education has published the draft new History Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements for Grades 4 to 12 for public comment.

The current publication forms part of a curriculum review process that has been under way for several years. It provides for the study of ancient and modern pasts, the use of historical and archaeological sources and the development of historical thinking, historical consciousness and historical culture.

Mhlauli told the learners that the handover ceremony was more than just an official event. “It is a meaningful investment in the future of the young people of this community,” she said.

She extend her sincere appreciation to HUAWEI for partnering with government and the school in support of education and development.

“Partnerships such as these demonstrate the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in creating opportunities for our learners. 

“Education remains one of the most powerful tools we have to transform lives, fight inequality, and build a capable generation that can contribute meaningfully to our country’s development,” she said.

The Deputy Minister also told the learners that their circumstances do not define their destiny.

“I stand before you today as proof that greatness can emerge from this very school and this very community. Remain disciplined, work hard, respect your educators and parents, and never stop believing in your potential. South Africa needs your energy, your ideas, your innovation, and your leadership.

“To the educators and staff, thank you for the critical role you continue to play in shaping young minds, often under difficult circumstances. Your commitment does not go unnoticed,” she said.

Mhlauli said also encouraged all the learners who are 16 years and older to register to vote.

“Your voice matters, your future matters, and your participation in our democracy matters. Young people must play an active role in shaping the future of our country. Do not wait until others make decisions on your behalf. Register, participate, and make your voices heard,” said the Deputy Minister. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Steenhuisen welcomes new PPECB board ahead of centenary milestone

Source: Government of South Africa

Steenhuisen welcomes new PPECB board ahead of centenary milestone

As the Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB) prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary in June, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has congratulated and welcomed the organisation’s newly appointed board members.

Established in June 1926, the PPECB is entering its second century of service as a linchpin of South Africa’s export and trade infrastructure, particularly in the agricultural sector.

Agriculture continues to play a central role in the country’s economy, serving as an engine for job creation and source of foreign exchange.

As the world’s trade landscape shifts, the role of the PPECB in providing independent, internationally recognised quality certification and cold chain management has never been more crucial.

The newly constituted board brings together a wealth of expertise and knowledge across the agricultural, agro-processing, and marine value chains. Their collective experience is a strategic asset as the country pursues new market access and seeks to expand existing international markets.

“I want to congratulate our new board members on taking up this mantle. They are stepping into leadership roles at an institution that has spent a century building trust in the South African export certificate,” Steenhuisen said.

With global trade becoming increasingly complex, the Minister emphasised that the calibre of the new board is a direct response to the need for high-level technical and strategic expertise.

The PPECB Board of Directors comprises the following members:
• Anton Kruger (Ministerial Representative): Former Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum CEO, with 14 years of executive experience;
• Jill Atwood-Palm (Processed Products): SA Fruit and Vegetable Canners Export Council General Manager, with 25 years’ experience in agro-processing;
• Albert Coetzee (Citrus Industry): Agricultural economist focusing on international sustainability regulations;
• Jacques du Preez (Pome and Stone Fruit): Expert in market access and negotiating international trade protocols;
• Lindie Stroebel (Subtropical Fruit): Senior executive with a focus on global supply footprints;
• Michael Vorster (Table Grape Industry): Experienced producer and chairperson within the table grape sector;
• Werner van Rooyen (Pome and Stone Fruit): Chief Operations Officer (COO) of the Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum and logistics specialist;
• Jolanda Andrag (Exporters’ Representative): COO of AgriSA, bringing extensive experience in public policy and development finance;
• Bonga Mavume (Marine Industry): Founder of Nalitha Fishing Group with 20 years’ experience in food manufacturing; and
• Pheladi Tlomatsane (Citrus Industry): Compliance and governance specialist with over 15 years’ experience in the sector.

“The Ministry is confident that this board will provide the needed steady and innovative vision to bolster South Africa’s reputation as a world-class exporter of premium perishable goods,” Steenhuisen said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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O Secretário-Geral da Organização Africana de Produtores de Petróleo (APPO), Ghezali, vai discursar na African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, à medida que o Banco Africano de Energia se aproxima do seu lançamento

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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Farid Ghezali, Secretário-Geral da Organização Africana de Produtores de Petróleo (APPO), subirá ao palco da African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, que decorrerá de 12 a 16 de outubro na Cidade do Cabo. Ghezali lidera o organismo pan-africano que, juntamente com o Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afrexibank), está a liderar o Banco Africano de Energia (AEB) — uma instituição marcante que se espera que entre em funcionamento em junho de 2026, em Abuja, na Nigéria. A sua confirmação na AEW coloca a arquitetura financeira em evolução de África no centro da agenda do evento.

Fundada em Lagos em 1987, a APPO cresceu de oito Estados-membros fundadores para 18, representando toda a amplitude das nações produtoras de petróleo de África, desde a Argélia e a Nigéria, a norte e a oeste, até à Namíbia e à África do Sul, a sul. Com sede em Brazzaville, no Congo, a organização passou por uma grande reforma em 2019, alargando o seu mandato para além da coordenação do mercado, de modo a facilitar ativamente o investimento e o financiamento em todo o continente. O AEB é o produto mais significativo desse mandato alargado até à data.

O banco foi concebido para preencher o vazio de financiamento criado pela retirada das instituições ocidentais dos projetos de petróleo e gás africanos. Com mais de 150 projetos essenciais paralisados em todo o continente devido a défices de capital, o mandato do AEB abrange toda a cadeia de valor, desde a exploração a montante e as infraestruturas a meio do processo até à distribuição a jusante. Fundado com uma capitalização inicial de 5 mil milhões de dólares, o banco tem como meta 10 mil milhões de dólares em investimentos na Fase 1, com o objetivo a longo prazo de angariar 15 mil milhões de dólares para projetos de petróleo e gás até 2030. A Nigéria entregou a sede do banco em Abuja à APPO e ao Afrexibank em fevereiro de 2026, sinalizando um passo crucial para o seu início operacional.

Para além do financiamento direto de projetos, Ghezali salientou o potencial do AEB para transformar a forma como as Empresas Petrolíferas Nacionais Africanas (NOC) acedem ao capital. As 18 NOC da APPO têm historicamente operado sem uma plataforma financeira comum, limitando a sua capacidade coletiva de atrair investimento em grande escala. Espera-se que o banco apoie a cotação das NOC, ligando os produtores soberanos aos mercados de capitais e aos fundos soberanos em grande escala, ao mesmo tempo que visa unificar os preços intra-africanos do petróleo e do gás para proporcionar até 30% de poupança nas importações de energia em todos os Estados-Membros.

«O AEB representa mais do que uma nova instituição financeira. É uma declaração de que África pretende controlar os termos do seu próprio desenvolvimento energético», afirmou NJ Ayuk, Presidente Executivo da Câmara Africana de Energia. «A APPO passou anos a construir as bases institucionais e o alinhamento dos Estados-Membros para tornar isto credível.»

A AEW 2026 — o maior encontro sobre energia de África — reunirá decisores políticos, promotores de projetos, financiadores e operadores para avaliar como a chegada do AEB irá remodelar o panorama do financiamento energético do continente. A intervenção de Ghezali deverá ser uma das sessões mais importantes do evento, numa altura em que o setor do petróleo e do gás africano atravessa uma mudança decisiva na forma como os seus projetos são financiados.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

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Petralon Energy amplia produção em Dawes Island e junta-se à African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 como Patrocinadora Diamante

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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A Petralon Energy foi confirmada como Patrocinadora Diamante da Conferência e Exposição African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 — que decorrerá de 12 a 16 de outubro na Cidade do Cabo —, à medida que a empresa continua a avançar com as atividades de desenvolvimento no campo de Dawes Island e a expandir o seu papel no setor upstream da Nigéria. Com a produção agora estabelecida e poços adicionais a avançar para a conclusão, a Petralon está a posicionar-se para um crescimento incremental da produção, em linha com esforços mais amplos para revitalizar a produção doméstica de petróleo.

Esta estratégia é mais visível no campo de Dawes Island (PPL 259), no Delta do Níger, onde a Petralon avançou rapidamente desde a concessão da licença em 2022 até à primeira produção de petróleo em 2026 – um dos prazos mais rápidos no recente programa de campos marginais da Nigéria. Desde então, a empresa perfurou vários poços, incluindo o DI-2, que está atualmente em produção, e o DI-3, que atingiu a profundidade total no início de 2026 e deverá entrar em produção ainda este ano. Está previsto um quarto poço (DI-4) como parte da próxima fase de desenvolvimento, a par de investimentos em instalações de produção permanentes.

A produção inicial já resultou na evacuação de aproximadamente 158 000 barris de crude através do Terminal de Petróleo e Gás de Bonny, marcando um passo tangível rumo ao crescimento sustentado da produção. Estes desenvolvimentos estão alinhados com a política de «perfurar ou desistir» da Nigéria ao abrigo da Lei da Indústria Petrolífera, concebida para garantir que os titulares de licenças de campos marginais convertam a área em produção.

Para além das operações, o progresso da Petralon atraiu um apoio notável da indústria. Em fevereiro de 2026, a Shell Western Supply and Trading reconheceu publicamente a conquista da primeira produção de petróleo pela empresa, com o seu papel como compradora de crude e cofinanciadora a sublinhar a crescente confiança dos investidores em operadores locais capazes de executar projetos a um ritmo acelerado.

As atividades da Petralon refletem também uma mudança estrutural mais ampla no setor upstream da Nigéria, onde as empresas locais estão cada vez mais a assumir o controlo de ativos anteriormente detidos por grandes empresas internacionais. O desenvolvimento da Ilha de Dawes destaca-se no atual ciclo de campos marginais, em que relativamente poucas operadoras avançaram da concessão da licença para a produção sustentada num prazo comparável.

Olhando para 2026–2027, espera-se que a empresa se concentre no aumento da produção dos poços existentes, na entrada em funcionamento de novos poços e na expansão da infraestrutura do campo para apoiar a estabilidade da produção a longo prazo. Ao mesmo tempo, a Petralon mantém uma exposição indireta a alguns dos maiores ativos em águas profundas da Nigéria – incluindo Agbami, Akpo e Egina – através da sua participação na Prime Oil & Gas, proporcionando escala adicional e diversificação no seu portfólio.

«Empresas locais como a Petralon estão a demonstrar que o futuro do setor upstream africano será impulsionado pela execução, disciplina e compromisso a longo prazo com o desenvolvimento de ativos», afirmou NJ Ayuk, Presidente Executivo da Câmara Africana de Energia. «O seu progresso na Ilha de Dawes é um exemplo claro de como os operadores locais estão a transformar reformas políticas em resultados de produção e investimento que reforçam a segurança energética de África.»

À medida que a AEW 2026 reúne líderes do setor na Cidade do Cabo, o Patrocínio Diamante da Petralon Energy assinala o papel crescente das operadoras locais na concretização de um crescimento real da produção em todo o continente. Com projetos a avançarem da licença para a primeira produção de petróleo em prazos reduzidos e novos capitais a fluírem para os intervenientes locais, empresas como a Petralon estão a ajudar a redefinir a forma como o setor upstream africano se desenvolverá nos próximos anos.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

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African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) Secretary General Ghezali to Address African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 as African Energy Bank Nears Launch

Source: APO


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Farid Ghezali, Secretary General of the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO), will take the stage at African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, taking place October 12–16 in Cape Town. Ghezali leads the pan-African body that, alongside the African Export-Import Bank (Afrexibank), is spearheading the African Energy Bank (AEB) – a landmark institution expected to become operational by June 2026 in Abuja, Nigeria. His confirmation at AEW places Africa’s evolving financing architecture at the center of the event’s agenda.

Founded in Lagos in 1987, APPO has grown from eight founding member states to 18, representing the full breadth of Africa’s oil-producing nations from Algeria and Nigeria in the north and west to Namibia and South Africa in the south. Headquartered in Brazzaville, Congo, the organization underwent a major reform in 2019, broadening its mandate beyond market coordination to actively facilitate investment and financing across the continent. The AEB is the most significant product of that expanded mandate to date.

The bank is designed to fill the financing vacuum created by the withdrawal of Western institutions from African oil and gas projects. With over 150 essential projects stalled across the continent due to capital shortfalls, the AEB’s mandate covers the full value chain, from upstream exploration and midstream infrastructure through to downstream distribution. Established with an initial capitalization of $5 billion, the bank is targeting $10 billion in Phase 1 deployments, with a longer-term goal of raising $15 billion for oil and gas projects by 2030. Nigeria handed over the bank’s Abuja headquarters to APPO and Afrexibank in February 2026, signaling a crucial step toward its operational start.

Beyond direct project finance, Ghezali has stressed the AEB’s potential to transform how African National Oil Companies (NOC) access capital. APPO’s 18 NOCs have historically operated without a common financial platform, limiting their collective ability to attract large-scale investment. The bank is expected to support NOC listings, connecting sovereign producers to capital markets and sovereign wealth funds at scale, while also aiming to unify intra-African oil and gas pricing to deliver up to 30% in savings on energy imports across member states.

“The AEB represents more than a new financing institution. It is a statement that Africa intends to control the terms of its own energy development,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “APPO has spent years building the institutional groundwork and member-state alignment to make this credible.”

AEW 2026 – Africa’s largest energy gathering – will bring together policymakers, project developers, financiers and operators to assess how the AEB’s arrival reshapes the continent’s energy financing landscape. Ghezali’s address is set to be among the event’s most consequential sessions as Africa’s oil and gas sector navigates a decisive shift in how its projects are funded.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.