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President Ramaphosa’s Swiss visit to strengthen trade and innovation ties

Source: Government of South Africa

President Ramaphosa’s Swiss visit to strengthen trade and innovation ties

By Dikeledi Molobela

Bern, Switzerland – At the backdrop of shifting global trade and investment dynamics, President Cyril Ramaphosa is advancing South Africa’s strategy to diversify its export markets, a move aimed at reducing reliance on a few partners and promoting value-added trade that supports industrial growth and job creation.

This strategic outlook will frame President Ramaphosa’s forthcoming State Visit to Switzerland from 29–30 October 2025, at the invitation of Her Excellency President Karin Keller-Sutter of the Swiss Confederation.

The visit follows immediately after the President’s three-nation tour to Indonesia, Vietnam and Malaysia, underscoring his sustained drive to broaden South Africa’s economic partnerships and deepen collaboration across multiple regions.

Nestled between snow-capped Alpine peaks and serene lakes, Bern the capital city of Switzerland, will host the official engagements. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and reputation as a diplomatic hub, Bern provides a fitting backdrop for discussions aimed at building bridges of cooperation, innovation and opportunity between the two nations.

Speaking to SAnews ahead of the visit, Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said that the State Visit to Switzerland is important, and it represents an opportunity to deepen collaboration with one of South Africa’s key European partners across strategic sectors of growth and innovation.

“The visit will serve to strengthen political, economic and social ties to advance mutually beneficial cooperation in support of inclusive growth and development in areas of trade and investment, skills development and science and innovation,” Magwenya said. 

A key focus of the visit will also be advancement of a youth cooperation framework aimed at promoting training and capacity building to equip young people with the skills required in the modern economy, Magwenya added. 

South Africa is Switzerland’s key partner in science, research and technology on the African continent. 

Switzerland’s 2022 accession to the Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO) deepened collaboration in space and radio astronomy, underscoring a shared commitment to global scientific advancement. 

The relationship between the two countries is long-standing, marked by strong economic ties, constructive political dialogue, and collaboration in multilateral forums. The bilateral relations are managed through the High-Level Consultations at the level of Deputy Foreign Ministers. 

These consultations include several working groups on Foreign Policy Working Group; Human Rights Working Group; Joint Economic Committee; Economic Development Cooperation and Science, Technology and Education. To date, there are 22 bilateral agreements between both countries. 

The most notable include agreements on Bilateral Air Services, Double Taxation, Development Cooperation, Science and Technology, and a Visa Agreement. Switzerland is also a host to multiple international organisations, including the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which has played an important role in South Africa’s history. 

Switzerland remains one of South Africa’s key European trading partners. Total trade volume amounted to R18.2 billion in 2024 (Exports R5.7 billion and Imports R12.5 billion – SARS), which places Switzerland as the 30th largest export market for South Africa and Switzerland as the 35th largest source of imports. However, Swiss statistics include South Africa’s gold exports and these show that total trade had reached R159.5 billion (Exports R85.4 billion and Imports R74.1 billion). 

This has positioned Switzerland as South Africa’s sixth largest trading partner. South Africa’s primary exports to Switzerland include precious metals and stones-particularly gold, machinery and agricultural products such as wine, fruit and nuts as well as base metals. 

While major imports comprise pharmaceutical products, machinery, and medical equipment. 

The President will be accompanied by cabinet members, including Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola; Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande; Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela, among others. – SAnews.gov.za

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SA entrepreneurs explore manufacturing and trade opportunities in Vietnam

Source: Government of South Africa

SA entrepreneurs explore manufacturing and trade opportunities in Vietnam

By Dikeledi Molobela

Hanoi, Vietnam – Following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State Visit to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD), led by Minister Stella Ndabeni, embarked on a practical learning and trade mission that brought South African entrepreneurs face to face with some of Vietnam’s most successful small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The Minister was joined by a delegation of 11 entrepreneurs representing a wide range of sectors – from beauty, agro-processing, medicinal herbs, fashion, fintech to agriculture and manufacturing – as part of South Africa’s broader effort to deepen economic collaboration between the two countries and empower its own small business community.

The entrepreneurs included a representative from MAXHOSA AFRICA a South African cultural luxury brand, founded in 2010 through the referencing and evolution of traditional Xhosa beadwork aesthetics. 

Learning from Vietnam’s thriving SME model

Speaking to SAnews on the ground in Hanoi, Minister Ndabeni said the visit sought to expose local entrepreneurs to Vietnam’s SME-driven economic model and open avenues for partnerships, trade, and knowledge exchange.

“We are here in Hanoi, Vietnam, because this is one of the countries where small and medium enterprises are the ones that drive the economy. The President could not have left us behind. But most importantly, it was not just about us. It’s about the work that is being done by the entrepreneurs. 

“Our entrepreneurs came here to engage with their counterparts and to look for opportunities. We are here to learn how the Vietnamese government supports SMEs, how they drive procurement, and most importantly, what we can take home to strengthen our own small business ecosystem,” the Minister said. 

The delegation’s first stop was the Anbi Hair Workshop in Bac Ninh Province, one of Vietnam’s leading hair manufacturing facilities. Here, entrepreneurs witnessed the entire production chain – from raw, freshly cut hair to finished wigs and weaves ready for export.

For Karabo Moremedi, founder of Brows by Kari, a South African beauty hub focused on hair restoration, permanent makeup, and medical aesthetics, the visit was a revelation.

“Seeing how they process and manufacture hair products from start to finish has been an eye-opener. It made me realise the gaps that exist in South Africa’s beauty industry, especially in manufacturing. I’m inspired to bring these lessons home to empower and upskill young women, and to ensure we take part in the full value chain,” she told SAnews.

Ndabeni echoed this sentiment, noting that while the beauty industry in South Africa is vibrant, it remains largely dominated by foreign nationals and imported products.

“One of the things we are big on at home is the beauty industry, but it is not dominated by South Africans. We want to change that. We brought entrepreneurs here to see how they can manufacture their own wigs, weaves, and related products locally,” she said.

Exploring trade and manufacturing partnerships

The visit also included engagements with the management of Dong Xuan Market, one of Hanoi’s busiest trading hubs, where small businesses play a vital role in sustaining the local economy. the Minister said the visit provided valuable insights into how Vietnam’s small traders thrive through collaboration and government support.

“These markets are driven by small businesses across different sectors. We came here to see how they sustain their trade, how they pay rent, attract customers, and keep the ecosystem vibrant,” she said.

The day concluded with a Round Table Meeting with Vietnamese Enterprises at the Melia Hotel, where the South African delegation explored potential collaborations in manufacturing, agriculture, and trade distribution.

Indigenous innovation and global reach

For Tebogo Tlhopane, founder of BioMuti, the visit offered a platform to explore export opportunities for his herbal and indigenous-knowledge-based health supplements.

“Vietnam has a growing supplements market worth about a billion dollars a year, with 70% being herbal products. This aligns perfectly with BioMuti, as our products are based on indigenous knowledge systems. We’re here to look for partners and explore how we can distribute our products across Southeast Asia,” he told SAnews. 

Tlhopane said the exposure reaffirmed the importance of integrating science with traditional African knowledge to create globally competitive wellness products.

Building bridges for agro-processing entrepreneurs

Agriculture entrepreneur Benedict Mhlongo, founder of Benica Farm in Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga, said the visit was equally valuable for agro-processing development. His cooperative, which employs 20 people, produces organic products including chili sauce, honey, jam, and mango achar.

“Vietnamese people consume a lot of condiments and spicy foods, so I believe there’s a strong market for our chili-based products. We also saw packaging innovations here that we can adapt back home. If supported by government, this could help us expand production and export,” Mhlongo said. 

Mhlongo added that through platforms like this, young farmers could gain practical insights into trade, packaging, and distribution crucial steps toward building sustainable agribusinesses in rural areas.

Strengthening South–South cooperation

Minister Ndabeni told SAnews that the engagements in Hanoi built on the outcomes of the South Africa–Vietnam Business Forum, co-led by President Ramaphosa and Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau. The forum outlined potential trade and investment areas, with both countries committing to strengthen cooperation in small business development and innovation.

“By the time the Vietnamese Prime Minister visits South Africa, we expect to have signed Memoranda of Understanding that will guide collaboration and promote entrepreneurship in both countries,” Ndabeni said.

The visit underscored the Department’s commitment to creating global exposure opportunities for South African entrepreneurs and ensuring that small businesses are not left behind in the country’s international trade agenda.

“Our entrepreneurs have seen first-hand how SMEs drive Vietnam’s economy. Now the task is to take these lessons home, localise production, and make sure South Africa’s small business sector becomes a key engine of growth, innovation, and job creation,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Qatar Welcomes Ceasefire Agreement Between Thailand and Cambodia

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, October 26, 2025

The State of Qatar welcomes the ceasefire agreement reached between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Kingdom of Cambodia, considering it an important step toward achieving peace between the two countries.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses Qatar’s deep appreciation for the efforts of His Excellency Donald Trump, President of the United States of America, and His Excellency Dr. Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia, in reaching the agreement.

The Ministry reaffirms Qatar’s full support for all sincere efforts aimed at resolving conflicts through dialogue and diplomatic means, in order to strengthen international peace and security and promote development and prosperity.

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O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) homenageia o Presidente cessante do Conselho de Administração

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) no Cairo, Egipto, marcou o fim do mandato do Prof. Benedict Okey Oramah como seu Presidente do Conselho de Administração, com uma conferência onde o Presidente cessante anunciou que fez da promoção do comércio e do investimento intra-africanos a ponta de lança da estratégia do Banco quando assumiu o cargo, devido à convicção de que esse era o único caminho viável para o desenvolvimento e a emancipação económica de África.

A conferência de despedida, que contou com a presença de mais de 2.000 convidados, atraiu Chefes de Estado, ex-Chefes de Estado, outros líderes governamentais e representantes de toda África e das Caraíbas, importantes líderes empresariais africanos, todos os ex- Presidentes do Afreximbank, o Presidente designado do Afreximbank, membros do Conselho de Administração do Banco, accionistas, actuais e antigos funcionários, amigos e familiares do Prof. Oramah e do Afreximbank, bem como uma série de outras personalidades.

No seu discurso de despedida, o Prof. Oramah afirmou que: “A nossa filosofia nasceu da convicção de que o único caminho viável para o desenvolvimento e a emancipação económica de África era aquele que revertesse de forma agressiva a estratégia colonial de ‘dividir para reinar’ e ‘dividir para conquistar’ que, durante décadas, manteve África e os afrodescendentes presos no poço do desânimo e do desespero.”

“Assim, a nossa filosofia foi que o motor do desenvolvimento de África deve ser impulsionado a partir de dentro, pois centenas de anos de história nos mostraram que os interesses externos têm sido, na sua maioria, predatórios e parasitários, a menos que envolvidos a partir de uma posição de força e propósito”, explicou.

O Prof. Oramah acrescentou que, tendo em conta que o Afreximbank lutou em todas as frentes “podemos apontar diferenças tangíveis que o Banco fez; podemos agora apontar aquelas coisas que agora existem, aqueles novos acordos institucionais e intervenções que agora se juntaram como forças formidáveis no arsenal de África na sua luta pela verdadeira auto-determinação – aquelas coisas que hoje admiramos, muitas das quais eram meras esperanças e aspirações há 10 anos”.

Anteriormente, o Dr. George Elombi, Presidente designado do Afreximbank, descreveu o Prof. Oramah como “um dos poucos no mundo, os 0,8%, que combina visão e execução”, afirmando que, sob a sua liderança, o Afreximbank e os seus parceiros voluntários construíram uma base sólida para melhorar o comércio intra-africano e o desenvolvimento industrial.

“Foram criados instrumentos para eliminar os obstáculos que impediram o progresso de África durante quase sete décadas, depois da independência de África. Encarou de frente os desafios do subdesenvolvimento industrial de África, dando continuidade ao trabalho daqueles que o antecederam”, afirmou o Dr. Elombi.

Afirmou que o Afreximbank é agora uma das principais instituições financeiras multilaterais que lideram os esforços de desenvolvimento de África, particularmente na implementação do Acordo da Zona de Comércio Livre Continental Africana (ZCLCA) e na transformação do panorama industrial do continente, acrescentando “Oramah transformou desejos políticos com décadas e séculos de existência em ganhos tangíveis para todos os africanos.”

Durante o mandato de 10 anos do Prof. Oramah, que iniciou em Setembro de 2015, o balanço e as garantias do Afreximbank cresceram quase oito vezes, passando de 6 mil milhões de USD quando assumiu o cargo para quase 44 mil milhões de USD em Setembro de 2025. Assistiu-se igualmente à introdução e implementação de produtos, programas e iniciativas de grande alcance, especificamente concebidos para enfrentar os desafios que se colocam ao comércio e ao crescimento económico de África, ajudando a consolidar a posição do Afreximbank como a principal instituição financeira comercial de África.

Durante o seu mandato, o apoio do Afreximbank desempenhou um papel significativo na antecipação da implementação da ZCLCA. O Sistema Pan-Africano de Pagamentos e Liquidações (PAPSS), que apoiou com uma linha de crédito de 3 mil milhões de USD para compensação e liquidação, entrou em funcionamento em 20 países e tornou possível aos países africanos realizarem transacções comerciais transfronteiriças nas suas próprias moedas locais.

Os Fundos de Ajustamento da ZCLCA, apoiados pelo Afreximbank com um compromisso de mil milhões de USD e uma parceria com o Secretariado da ZCLCA, estão a permitir que os Estados participantes na ZCLCA se ajustem de forma ordenada ao novo regime comercial.

A Feira Comercial Intra-Africana bienal, introduzida pelo Afreximbank em 2018, enfrenta o desafio do acesso limitado a informações sobre comércio e investimento em toda África e, nas suas quatro edições, atraiu mais de 170 mil milhões de USD em acordos comerciais e de investimento e 180.000 visitantes. Além disso, a plataforma digital do Banco, a Africa Trade Gateway, está a utilizar a tecnologia digital para eliminar as barreiras à informação, enquanto os Centros de Comércio Africano do Afreximbank, que surgiram em todo o continente, estão a fornecer plataformas sólidas para informações sobre comércio e investimento intra-africanos.

Quanto às normas, através dos centros de testes e certificação do Banco, foram harmonizadas cerca de 500 normas para produtos farmacêuticos e equipamentos médicos, agricultura, automóveis, têxteis, etc., permitindo um comércio intra-africano mais fácil, enquanto o Banco continua a construir mais centros em toda África para garantir que existem infra-estruturas para implementar as normas que ajudou a harmonizar.

Em colaboração com o Secretariado da ZCLCA e a COMESA, o Afreximbank lançou o Sistema Africano de Garantia de Trânsito Colaborativo, apoiado por limites de garantia de mil milhões de USD, que aborda as barreiras ao trânsito na circulação de mercadorias através das fronteiras.

Além disso, o Afreximbank está a apoiar o desenvolvimento de parques industriais e zonas económicas especiais em toda África, criando exportações onde antes não existiam, incluindo o surgimento de indústrias pesadas, como a Refinaria e Petroquímica Dangote na Nigéria.

Além disso, é importante referir que o trabalho do Banco estimulou os laços socioculturais e económicos entre África e a CARICOM e a diáspora africana em geral, e a execução do projecto do Centro de Excelência Médica Africano abriu caminho para que muitos africanos tivessem acesso a cuidados de saúde de qualidade.

Outras realizações significativas incluem a intervenção do Banco na COVID-19, quando desembolsou mais de 10 mil milhões de USD para permitir que África se defendesse durante a pandemia da COVID-19. O Banco disponibilizou igualmente 2 mil milhões de USD que permitiram a África e às Caraíbas adquirir vacinas contra a COVID-19.

Por outro lado, sob a liderança do Presidente Oramah, o Afreximbank lançou recentemente a Empresa Africana de Comércio e Distribuição [African Trade and Distribution Company (ATDC)], uma instituição concebida para enfrentar os obstáculos logísticos no comércio transfronteiriço dentro do continente.

A conferência em homenagem ao legado contou ainda com homenagens prestadas por funcionários do Afreximbank, membros da comunidade empresarial, líderes políticos, amigos e outras pessoas de várias esferas da vida que foram impactadas pelo trabalho do Prof. Oramah.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Afreximbank.

Contacto para a Imprensa:
Vincent Musumba
Gestor de Comunicações e Eventos (Relações com os Meios de Comunicação Social)
Correio Electrónico: press@afreximbank.com

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Sobre o Afreximbank:
O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) é uma instituição financeira multilateral pan-africana com mandato para financiar e promover o comércio intra e extra-africano. Há mais de 30 anos que o Banco utiliza estruturas inovadoras para oferecer soluções de financiamento que apoiam a transformação da estrutura do comércio africano, acelerando a industrialização e o comércio intra-regional, impulsionando assim a expansão económica em África. Apoiante firme do Acordo de Comércio Livre Continental Africano (ACLCA), o Afreximbank lançou um Sistema Pan-Africano de Pagamento e Liquidação (PAPSS) que foi adoptado pela União Africana (UA) como plataforma de pagamento e liquidação para sustentar a implementação da ZCLCA. Em colaboração com o Secretariado da ZCLCA e a UA, o Banco criou um Fundo de Ajustamento de 10 mil milhões de dólares para apoiar os países que participam de forma efectiva na ZCLCA. No final de Dezembro de 2024, o total de activos e contingências do Afreximbank ascendia a mais de 40,1 mil milhões de dólares e os seus fundos de accionistas a 7,2 mil milhões de dólares. O Afreximbank tem notações de grau de investimento atribuídas pela GCR (escala internacional) (A), Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) e Fitch (BBB-). O Afreximbank evoluiu para uma entidade de grupo que inclui o Banco, a sua subsidiária de fundo de impacto de acções, denominada Fundo para o Desenvolvimento das Exportações em África (FEDA), e a sua subsidiária de gestão de seguros, AfrexInsure (em conjunto, “o Grupo”). O Banco tem a sua sede em Cairo, Egipto.

Para mais informações, visite: www.Afreximbank.com.

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Afreximbank célèbre la fin de mandat du Professeur Benedict Oramah

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), basée au Caire, en Égypte, a rendu hommage au Professeur Benedict Okey Oramah à l’occasion de la fin de son mandat à la tête de la Banque et du Conseil d’administration, au cours d’une conférence consacrée à son héritage institutionnel. À cette occasion, le Président sortant a rappelé avoir fait de la promotion du commerce et de l’investissement intra-africains l’axe principal de la stratégie de la Banque dès son entrée en fonction, convaincu qu’il s’agissait de la seule voie viable pour le développement et l’émancipation économique du continent africain.

La conférence d’adieu, à laquelle ont assisté plus de 2 000 invités, a réuni des chefs d’État, d’anciens chefs d’État, des chefs de gouvernement, des représentants d’institutions venus de tout le continent africain et des Caraïbes, des chefs d’entreprises africains de premier plan, tous les anciens présidents d’Afreximbank, le futur Président de la Banque, les membres du Conseil d’administration, les actionnaires, le personnel actuel et ancien, ainsi que des amis et des proches du Professeur Oramah et d’Afreximbank, sans oublier de nombreux autres dignitaires.

« Notre philosophie est née de la conviction que la seule voie viable pour le développement et l’émancipation économique de l’Afrique consistait à renverser agressivement la stratégie coloniale du “diviser pour régner” et du “diviser pour conquérir”, qui, pendant des décennies, ont maintenu l’Afrique et les populations d’ascendance africaine dans le désespoir et la détresse. », a déclaré le Professeur Oramah dans son allocution d’adieu.

« En conséquence, notre philosophie reposait sur l’idée que le moteur du développement africain devait être alimenté de l’intérieur, car des centaines d’années d’histoire ont démontré que les intérêts extérieurs ont été pour la plupart prédateurs et parasitaires, sauf lorsque ce moteur était impulsé à partir d’une position de force et de détermination », a-t-il expliqué.

Le Professeur Oramah a ajouté que, parce qu’Afreximbank a combattu sur tous les fronts, « nous pouvons aujourd’hui désigner des changements concrets opérés par la Banque ; nous pouvons désormais citer ces structures institutionnelles et ces interventions nouvelles qui se sont ajoutées comme des forces formidables dans l’arsenal de l’Afrique dans sa lutte pour une véritable autodétermination – des réalisations qui n’étaient encore que des rêves et des aspirations il y a dix ans ».

Pour sa part, le Dr George Elombi, nouveau Président d’Afreximbank, a décrit son prédécesseur comme « l’un des rares dans le monde, les 0,8 %, qui allient vision et capacité d’exécution ». Selon lui, c’est sous la direction du Professeur Oramah qu’Afreximbank et ses partenaires ont bâti une base solide pour renforcer le commerce intra-africain et le développement industriel.

« Des instruments ont été créés pour démanteler les obstacles qui ont freiné les progrès de l’Afrique pendant près de sept décennies depuis l’indépendance. Il a affronté de front les défis du sous-développement industriel de l’Afrique, s’appuyant sur le travail de ceux qui l’ont précédé », a déclaré le Dr Elombi, selon qui, Afreximbank est désormais l’une des principales institutions financières multilatérales qui dirigent les efforts de développement du continent, notamment dans la mise en œuvre de la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf) et la transformation du paysage industriel du continent. « Oramah a transformé des décennies et des siècles de vœux politiques en gains tangibles pour tous les Africains. », a-t-il ajouté.

Le mandat de dix ans du Professeur Oramah, qui a débuté en septembre 2015, a vu le bilan et les garanties d’Afreximbank croître presque huit fois, passant de 6 milliards de dollars US à près de 44 milliards de dollars en septembre 2025. Il a également vu l’introduction et la mise en œuvre de produits, programmes et initiatives d’envergure, spécifiquement conçus pour relever les défis du commerce et de la croissance économique de l’Afrique, contribuant à consolider la position d’Afreximbank comme première institution africaine de financement du commerce.

Au cours de son mandat, le soutien d’Afreximbank a joué un rôle déterminant dans la mise en œuvre anticipée de la ZLECAf. Le Système panafricain de paiement et de règlement (PAPSS), soutenu par une facilité de compensation et de règlement de 3 milliards de dollars, est devenu opérationnel dans 20 pays, permettant aux États africains d’effectuer des échanges commerciaux transfrontaliers dans leurs propres monnaies locales.

Le Fonds d’ajustement de la ZLECAf, soutenu par un engagement de 1 milliard de dollars d’Afreximbank et un partenariat avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf, permet aux États participants de s’adapter de manière ordonnée au nouveau régime commercial.

La Foire commerciale intra-africaine biennale, introduite par Afreximbank en 2018, s’attaque au problème de l’accès limité à l’information sur le commerce et l’investissement en Afrique et a, en quatre éditions, attiré plus de 170 milliards de dollars en accords commerciaux et en investissements, ainsi que 180 000 visiteurs.

Par ailleurs, la plateforme numérique Africa Trade Gateway tire parti des technologies digitales pour lever les barrières informationnelles, tandis que les Centres du commerce africain qui ont vu le jour à travers le continent offrent des plateformes solides pour la diffusion d’informations sur le commerce et l’investissement intra-africains.

Dans le domaine des normes, les centres d’essais et de certification de la Banque ont permis l’harmonisation d’environ 500 normes pour les produits pharmaceutiques et équipements médicaux, l’agriculture, l’automobile, le textile, etc., facilitant ainsi le commerce intra-africain. La Banque continue de construire de nouveaux centres à travers l’Afrique afin d’assurer la mise en œuvre effective des normes qu’elle a contribué à harmoniser.

En collaboration avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf et le COMESA, Afreximbank a lancé le Régime africain de garantie de transit collaboratif, soutenu par 1 milliard de dollars de garanties, afin de lever les obstacles à la circulation des marchandises à travers les frontières.

En outre, Afreximbank soutient le développement de parcs industriels et de zones économiques spéciales à travers l’Afrique, favorisant la création d’exportations nouvelles, notamment avec l’émergence de grandes industries telles que la raffinerie et le complexe pétrochimique Dangote au Nigéria.

De manière tout aussi importante, le travail de la Banque a ravivé les liens socio-culturels et économiques entre l’Afrique, la CARICOM et la diaspora africaine, et la mise en œuvre des projets de Centres médicaux d’excellence africains a ouvert la voie à un accès élargi à des soins de santé de qualité pour de nombreux Africains.

Parmi les autres réalisations significatives, on peut citer l’intervention d’Afreximbank pendant la pandémie de COVID-19, lorsque la Banque a décaissé plus de 10 milliards de dollars pour permettre à l’Afrique de se défendre par ses propres moyens, et a mobilisé 2 milliards de dollars supplémentaires pour permettre à l’Afrique et aux Caraïbes d’acquérir des vaccins contre le COVID-19.

En outre, sous la présidence du Professeur Oramah, Afreximbank a récemment lancé la Société africaine de commerce et de distribution (ATDC), une institution mise en place pour relever les défis logistiques du commerce transfrontalier sur le continent.

La conférence dédiée à son héritage a également été marquée par des témoignages et des hommages rendus par le personnel d’Afreximbank, d’acteurs du monde des affaires, des dirigeants politiques, des amis et des personnalités de divers horizons ayant été influencés par le travail du Professeur Oramah.

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

Contact Presse :
Vincent Musumba
Responsable des communications et de la gestion événementielle (Relations presse)
Courriel : press@afreximbank.com

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À propos d’Afreximbank :
La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) est une institution financière multilatérale panafricaine dédiée au financement et à la promotion du commerce intra et extra-africain. Depuis 30 ans, Afreximbank déploie des structures innovantes pour fournir des solutions de financement qui facilitent la transformation de la structure du commerce africain et accélèrent l’industrialisation et le commerce intrarégional, soutenant ainsi l’expansion économique en Afrique. Fervente défenseur de l’Accord sur la Zone de Libre-Échange Continentale Africaine (ZLECAf), Afreximbank a lancé les le Système panafricain de paiement et de règlement (PAPSS) qui a été adopté par l’Union africaine (UA) comme la plateforme de paiement et de règlement devant appuyer la mise en œuvre de la ZLECAf. En collaboration avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf et l’UA, la Banque a mis en place un Fonds d’ajustement de 10 milliards de dollars US pour aider les pays à participer de manière effective à la ZLECAf. À la fin de décembre 2024, le total des actifs et des garanties de la Banque s’élevait à environ 40,1 milliards de dollars US et les fonds de ses actionnaires s’établissaient à 7,2 milliards de dollars US. Afreximbank est notée A par GCR International Scale, Baa2 par Moody’s, AAA par China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI), A- par Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) et BBB par Fitch. Au fil des ans, Afreximbank est devenue un groupe constitué de la Banque, de sa filiale de financement à impact appelée Fonds de développement des exportations en Afrique (FEDA), et de sa filiale de gestion d’assurance, AfrexInsure, (les trois entités forment « le Groupe »). La Banque a son siège social au Caire, en Égypte.

Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez visiter www.Afreximbank.com

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Private sector invited to help modernise South Africa’s rail network

Source: Government of South Africa

In a move to ensure that the country’s rail passenger trips target of 600 million by 2030 is achieved, government has released a series of Requests for Information (RFI) for ideas and investment from the private sector to modernise and grow South Africa’s rail system.

“Participation in the RFI process will assist the organisation to gather information, innovative ideas, and solutions which will guide future Requests for Proposals for private sector investment in the passenger rail sector,” Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy said on Sunday in Pretoria.

The request covers a range of different areas, including fare collection systems; depot management; utilisation and the commercialisation of the Passenger Rail Agency of South African (PRASA) fibre network to enhance digital connectivity.

It also includes operational resilience within the rail sector and beyond, as well as insights and innovative ideas for a new era of long distance regional rapid transit.

By the end of May 2025, PRASA had successfully commissioned 35 out of 40 passenger corridors and had achieved an annual audited figure of 77 million passenger journeys.

“To continue on the recovery path, PRASA requires additional investment that cannot be carried by the fiscus alone. These RFIs are not tenders — they are an invitation for the market to help us design the future of rail. Together, we can rebuild confidence in public transport, open up investment opportunities, and connect South Africans to the growth we all deserve,” the Minister said during a media briefing.

As part of efforts to modernise the passenger rail system, South Africa is moving towards a single, tap-and-go ticket that you can use across trains, buses, and even taxis.

“No more queues or paper tickets — just one account-based system that makes travel easier and helps us manage revenue transparently and efficiently. The private sector has an important role to play to make this a reality.

“We’re partnering with the private sector to modernise our major maintenance depots at Braamfontein and Wolmerton. This will mean faster train repairs, better reliability, and new investment in nearby areas — creating jobs and boosting local development. It is for this reason that the private sector participation is of paramount given the magnitude of this project,” Creecy said.

PRASA is rolling out thousands of kilometres of fibre[1] optic cable as part of its new signalling system along the railway lines.

“We’re opening this door for private partners to help us turn that network into a source of income — by offering broadband and digital services — while strengthening safety and real-time communication across the rail system.

“We’re planning a new generation of regional trains — faster, safer, and more  frequent — connecting cities like Pretoria, Johannesburg, Polokwane, Musina, Mbombela and Durban using our existing network up to 120 kilometres per hour, building new 160 to 200 kilometres per hour regional lines, and testing the water for a new 300-kilometre-per-hour high-speed railway between Johannesburg and Durban,” she said.

These lines will shorten travel times, reduce travel costs, take pressure off the roads, and stimulate new development in towns along each route. 

“These regional projects are not possible without private sector partnership. Through this RFI, we’re inviting skilled private operators to lease and manage our new and old fleet under clear performance standards — keeping them safe, reliable, and on time.

“PRASA’s new blue trains, built at the Gibela factory in Nigel, are world-class. We also have older yellow trains that can be repurposed for new uses,” the Minister said.

At the same time, government is partnering with manufacturers to position South Africa as Africa’s leading train builder — creating jobs, boosting local manufacturing, and turning the country into a regional export hub, in line with the African Union’s 2015 resolution.

“The rail and port freight RFI process is part of our broader Freight Logistics Roadmap, which seeks to restore efficiency, reliability, and competitiveness in the movement of goods across our economy.

“It also reflects the government’s commitment to implementing the National Rail Policy (2022), the National Ports Policy, and the Private Sector Participation Framework (2023), all of which recognise the critical role of partnerships with the private sector in revitalising our transport infrastructure,” Creecy said.

Both policies maintain public ownership of the rail and port network while promoting private sector investment to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

“The RFI process is a critical step in this private sector participation journey and reflects the government’s acknowledgement of the importance of considering the rail passenger and freight logistics landscape from the perspectives of all interested and affected parties to develop effective and sustainable solutions,” the Minister said.

The RFI must be completed online, and the portal will remain open from 26 October 2025 to 15 December 2025.

The portal can be accessed on the Department of Transport and the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) websites or directly at www.psp-rfi.co.za.

The Passenger Rail RFI will remain open for a period of eight weeks. –SAnews.gov.za

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Clarification regarding reports that a rocket was launched in the vicinity of United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) compound

Source: APO


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The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has received reports that a rocket was launched in the vicinity of its compound during the briefing of the Special Representative of Secretary-General, Hanna Tetteh, to the Security Council. The Mission’s premises were not impacted. UNSMIL acknowledges with appreciation the vigilance of the Libyan authorities and their swift measures to thoroughly investigate this incident and ensure continued security of UN facilities. UNSMIL reiterates its unwavering commitment to supporting Libya’s efforts toward peace, stability, and the rule of law.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL).

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Eskom maintains over 98% electricity supply reliability

Source: Government of South Africa

During the current financial year, Eskom has ensured a consistent electricity supply for over 98% of the time due to the ongoing technical improvements achieved under the power utility’s Generation Recovery Plan.

As a result of this work, the power system continues to be stable, resilient and reliable with the plan yielding sustained grid stability and on-going efficiencies.

The country has gone 161 consecutive days without loadshedding, with only 26 hours recorded between 1 April and 23 October 2025.

“Generation performance has improved significantly, with the Energy Availability Factor (EAF) having reached 70% and surpassing this level more than 24 times since August 2025.

“From 1 to 23 October 2025, the Unplanned Capability Loss Factor (UCLF)—which measures the percentage of generation capacity lost due to unplanned outages—reduced to 22.85%, reflecting a 2.81% improvement compared to 25.66% during the same period last year,” Eskom said on Friday.

The Planned Capacity Loss Factor (PCLF), which accounts for planned maintenance, increased to 12.55%, up from 12.51% recorded the previous year. 

The increased planned maintenance is aligned with Eskom’s maintenance schedule and ongoing efforts to improve and maintain plant reliability and operational consistency.

During the period between 10 and 23 October 2025, Eskom recorded an average of 9 954MW in unplanned outages—an improvement from 11 155MW during the same period last year. 

“This year-on-year reduction of 1 201MW in breakdowns reflects the growing reliability and resilience of the generation fleet.

“From 1 to 23 October 2025, the EAF stood at 64.28%, an improvement from the 61.44% recorded during the same period last year. This shows an improvement of 2.84% because of reduced unplanned outages and additional generation capacity,” the power utility said.

From 1 April to 23 October 2025, diesel expenditure remained consistently below budget, reflecting reduced reliance on the country’s diesel-powered Open-Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) fleet, with the year-to-date load factor further decreasing to 6.06%. 

According to Eskom, this trend highlights ongoing efficiency improvements, a significant reduction in dependence on diesel generation, and a sustained shift toward more cost-effective primary generation sources.

To further strengthen grid stability, Eskom is planning to return a total of 1 715MW of generation capacity to service ahead of the evening peak on Monday, 27 October 2025, and throughout the coming week.

Eskom published the Summer Outlook on 5 September 2025, covering the period 1 September 2025 to 31 March 2026, which forecasts no loadshedding due to the structural progress in plant performance as a result of the ongoing implementation of the Generation Recovery Plan. –SAnews.gov.za

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African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) Celebrates Outgoing President and Chairman

Source: APO

African Export-import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) in Cairo, Egypt, marked the end of the tenure of Prof. Benedict Okey Oramah as its President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, with a legacy conference where the outgoing President announced that he made the promotion of intra-African trade and investment the arrowhead of the Bank’s strategy when he took office because of a conviction that was the only viable path forward for Africa’s development and economic emancipation.

The Farewell conference, attended by more than 2,000 guests, attracted heads of state, former heads of state, other government leaders and representatives from across Africa and the Caribbean, top African business leaders, all former Afreximbank Presidents, Afreximbank President designate, members of the Bank’s Board of Directors, shareholders, serving and former staff members, friends and family of Prof. Oramah and Afreximbank as well as a host of other dignitaries.

In a farewell address, Prof. Oramah stated: “Our philosophy was borne out of the conviction that the only viable path forward for Africa’s development and economic emancipation was one that would aggressively reverse-engineer the colonial strategy of ‘divide-and-rule’ and ‘divide-and-conquer’ that had, for decades, pinned Africa and people of African descent down in the dustbin of despair and desperation.”

“Accordingly, our philosophy was that Africa’s development dynamo must be powered from within, as hundreds of years of history, had shown us that external interests had been mostly predatory and parasitic, unless engaged from a position of strength and purpose,” he explained.

Prof. Oramah added that, because Afreximbank fought on all fronts, “we can point to tangible differences the Bank has made; we can now point to those things that now exist, those new institutional arrangements and interventions that have now joined as formidable forces in Africa’s armoury in its fight towards true self-determination – those things that we look up to today, many of which were mere hopes and aspirations, 10 years ago”.

Earlier, Dr. George Elombi, President Designate of Afreximbank, described Prof. Oramah as “one of the few in the world, the 0.8 per cent, who combines vision and execution”, saying that, under his leadership, Afreximbank and its willing partners built a solid foundation for enhancing intra-African trade and industrial development. 

“Instruments were created to dismantle the obstacles that have hindered Africa’s progress for nearly seven decades since Africa’s independence. He confronted the challenges of Africa’s industrial underdevelopment head-on, building on the work of those who came before him,” said Dr. Elombi.

He noted that Afreximbank was now one of the key multilateral financial institutions leading Africa’s development efforts, particularly in implementing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and transforming the continent’s industrial landscape, adding, “Oramah has turned decades and centuries-old political wishes into tangible gains for all Africans.”

Prof. Oramah’s 10-year tenure, which began in September 2015, saw Afreximbank’s balance sheet and guarantees grow almost eight-fold, from US$6 billion when he took office to almost US$44 billion as at September 2025. It also saw the introduction and implementation of far-reaching products, programmes and initiatives specifically designed to address the challenges facing Africa’s trade and economic growth, helping to cement Afreximbank’s place as Africa’s foremost trade finance institution.

During his time, Afreximbank’s support played a significant role in putting the implementation of the AfCFTA ahead of schedule. The Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), which it has backed with a US$3 billion clearing and settlement facility, has become operational in 20 countries and has made it possible for African countries to trade across borders in their own local currencies.

The AfCFTA Adjustment Funds, supported by Afreximbank with a US$1 billion commitment and a partnership with the AfCFTA Secretariat, is enabling AFCFTA participating states to adjust in an orderly manner to the new trading regime.

The biennial Intra-African Trade Fair, introduced by Afreximbank in 2018, is tackling the challenge of limited access to trade and investment information across Africa and has, in its four editions, attracted over US$170 billion in trade and investment deals and 180,000 visitors. Moreover, the Bank’s digital platform, the Africa Trade Gateway, is using digital technology to break down information barriers, while the Afreximbank Africa Trade Centres, which have sprung up across the continent, are providing solid platforms for intra-African trade and investment information.

In the area of standards, through the Bank’s testing and certification centres, about 500 standards for pharmaceuticals and medical equipment, agriculture, automobiles, textiles, etc. have been harmonised, enabling smoother intra-African trade as the Bank continues to build more centres across Africa to ensure that there is infrastructure to implement the standards it has helped to harmonise.

Working with the AFCFTA Secretariat and COMESA, Afreximbank launched the African Collaborative Transit Guarantee Scheme, supported by US$1 billion in guarantee limits, which addresses the transit barriers to the movement of goods across borders.

In addition, Afreximbank is supporting the development of industrial parks and special economic zones across Africa, creating exports where none existed, including the emergence of heavy industries, such as the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical plant in Nigeria.

Also, importantly, the Bank’s work has ignited socio-cultural and economic ties between Africa and the CARICOM and the broader African diaspora and its execution of African Medical Centre of Excellence projects has paved the way for quality healthcare to become accessible to many Africans.

Other significant accomplishments include the Bank’s COVID-19 intervention when it disbursed over US$10 billion to enable Africa to fend for itself during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The Bank also put up US$2 billion that enabled Africa and the Caribbean to procure COVID-19 vaccines.

Additionally, under President Oramah, Afreximbank recently launched the African Trade and Distribution Company (ATDC), an institution designed to tackle logistical hurdles in cross-border trade within the continent.

The legacy conference also featured tributes delivered by Afreximbank staff, members of the business community, political leaders, friends and other people from various walks of life who were impacted by the work of Prof. Oramah.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

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

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

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

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Qhawekazi Mazaleni crowned Miss South Africa 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

Sunday, October 26, 2025

Government has congratulated Qhawekazi Mazaleni, who was crowned this year’s Miss South Africa at a prestigious ceremony held at the SunBet Arena in Menlyn, Pretoria East.

 At just 24 years old, the Eastern Cape-born beauty and youth ambassador has brought pride to the nation through her remarkable achievement.

“Government wishes Mazaleni well as she undertakes her reign and continues to inspire young women to pursue their dreams and contribute positively to society.

“Warm congratulations are also extended to Luyanda Zuma, the first runner-up, and Karabo Mareka, the second runner-up, for their remarkable performances in this year’s competition,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said on Sunday.

Mazaleni won the coveted title on Saturday night after competing against nine women during the finale, which showcased South African beauty, culture, and purpose-driven vision.

“Beauty pageants, such as Miss South Africa, play an important role in uplifting the youth by promoting confidence, leadership, and social responsibility, while providing a platform for young women to advocate for change and make a meaningful impact in their communities. We say Halala!” GCIS said. –SAnews.gov.za