Minister of State at Ministry of Foreign Affairs Meets US Special Envoy for Syria

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | April 11, 2026

HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi met today with HE US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack, who is visiting the country.

During the meeting, they reviewed the latest developments in Syria and Lebanon and efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region.

HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated the State of Qatar’s full support for Syria’s sovereignty and unity as well as the aspirations of its brotherly people for stability, development, and prosperity.

Qatar Sends 14th Identical Letter to UN, Security Council Regarding Latest Developments of Iranian Attack on Its Territories

Source: Government of Qatar

New York | April 11, 2026

The State of Qatar has sent a 14th identical letter to HE Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres and HE Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of April Jamal Fares Al Rowaiei, regarding the latest developments of the Iranian attack on its territories. This attack constitutes a blatant violation of its national sovereignty, a direct threat to its security and territorial integrity, and an unacceptable escalation that threatens the security and stability of the region.
The letter was sent by HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani.
The letter noted Qatar’s Ministry of Defense’s announcement that the country was subjected to attacks by seven ballistic missiles and several drones from the Islamic Republic of Iran on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, which Qatar’s Armed Forces successfully intercepted.
The letter noted that this attack was carried out by the Islamic Republic of Iran even after the Security Council adopted Resolution No. 2817 (2026), which condemned in the strongest terms the heinous attacks launched by the Islamic Republic of Iran against the State of Qatar and neighboring countries, and demanded an immediate end to all such attacks.
The State of Qatar also reiterated that this attack constitutes a violation of Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026), and once again urged the Security Council to assume its responsibilities in maintaining international peace and security and to take the necessary measures to stop these serious violations and deter their perpetrators.
The letter emphasized that the targets of the attacks by the Islamic Republic of Iran are purely civilian in nature, and that targeting them constitutes a blatant violation by Iran of the 1949 Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols, and of the principles of international humanitarian law, specifically the principle of distinction, the prohibition of targeting civilians and civilian objects in armed conflicts, the prohibition of indiscriminate attacks, the principle of proportionality, and the obligation to take due precautions to avoid civilian targets.
It added that all damages and losses resulting from the attacks will be assessed by the competent authorities, and Qatar will keep the UN and the UN Security Council informed of developments.
The letter emphasized that the State of Qatar reserves its right to respond in accordance with Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations and the right to self-defense guaranteed by international law, stressing that Qatar will not hesitate to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, security, and the safety of its citizens and residents on its territory.
The State of Qatar also requested that this letter be circulated as an official document of the Security Council. 

Seychelles Backs United Arab Emirates (UAE) Statement, Calls for De-escalation and Respect for International Law

Source: APO – Report:

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The Government of the Republic of Seychelles has expressed its support for the Joint Statement issued by the United Arab Emirates and partners concerning recent developments in the Gulf region, particularly with regard to threats to maritime security, critical civilian infrastructure, and the stability of global energy markets and supply chains.

Seychelles’ position is firmly grounded in its consistent adherence to the principles of international law and the Charter of the United Nations. In this regard, Seychelles reaffirms its strong commitment to the respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of States, the protection of critical civilian infrastructure, and the safeguarding of freedom of navigation through international waterways. As a small island developing state, Seychelles attaches particular importance to the security and openness of global maritime routes, which are essential to international trade and economic stability.

Seychelles shares the concerns expressed in the Joint Statement regarding actions that threaten maritime safety and regional stability, and underscores the need to ensure the uninterrupted flow of commerce and the protection of vital sea lanes.

At the same time, Seychelles wishes to emphasise that its support for the Joint Statement should not be interpreted as endorsing or condoning the actions of any other parties to the broader conflict. Seychelles remains consistent in its principled position that all States must act in full compliance with international law, including international humanitarian law. This includes strict adherence to the fundamental principles of necessity, proportionality, and distinction, ensuring that military operations are directed solely at legitimate military objectives and that civilians and civilian infrastructure are fully protected.

Seychelles is deeply alarmed by the continued loss of innocent civilian lives and the widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure. Such developments have grave humanitarian, environmental, and socio-economic consequences, and risk further destabilising the region.

The Republic of Seychelles reiterates its unequivocal support for all efforts aimed at the de-escalation of tensions and calls for a swift, peaceful, and negotiated resolution to the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy. Seychelles also calls upon all parties to exercise maximum restraint, uphold international legal obligations, and prioritise the protection of civilians and the preservation of regional and international peace and security.

The Government of the Republic of Seychelles will continue to closely monitor developments and remains committed to working with international partners in support of peace, stability, and the rule of law.

– on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Republic of Seychelles.

TotalEnergies’ Africa Senior Vice President (SVP) Mike Sangster to Spotlight Expanding Project Pipeline at Paris Forum

Source: APO – Report:

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TotalEnergies’ Senior Vice President for Africa, Mike Sangster, will speak at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum in Paris on April 22–23, as the company pushes forward a dense slate of upstream and LNG developments across the continent.

Africa remains central to TotalEnergies’ global portfolio, accounting for roughly half of its operated production and the largest share of its exploration budget. That footprint is now translating into a new wave of project execution and investment decisions expected to shape output through 2026 and beyond.

In the Republic of Congo, the company committed $500 million in 2025 to new wells at the Moho Nord field, targeting an additional 40,000 barrels per day from an asset that already represents around half of national production. In East Africa, Uganda’s Tilenga project is progressing toward first oil, supported by the 1,443-km East African Crude Oil Pipeline to Tanzania’s port of Tanga.

Meanwhile, in Mozambique, TotalEnergies is advancing the restart of its $20 billion LNG project, a cornerstone development with planned capacity of 13 million tons per annum. The project’s phased return marks a key step in unlocking one of Africa’s largest gas reserves and is expected to be a major driver of production growth. Together, these projects are set to reverse earlier declines in output, with TotalEnergies’ African production expected to recover through 2026 as new volumes come online.

Frontier assets are also moving closer to key decisions. In Namibia, the company is targeting a final investment decision on the Venus discovery in the fourth quarter of 2026, positioning it as one of the most closely watched deepwater projects globally. In South Africa, TotalEnergies is preparing to drill offshore Block 3B/4B in the Orange Basin, pending final approvals, as exploration activity accelerates in the region.

Alongside oil developments, gas monetization remains a priority. The company is advancing LNG and domestic gas projects, while maintaining zero routine flaring across its operations in Nigeria, Gabon and Angola. Its broader strategy also includes renewable and power investments, with solar projects in Southern and North Africa and hydropower in Uganda.

Sangster’s participation at IAE comes at a time when TotalEnergies is managing one of its most active project pipelines in Africa in recent years, spanning near-term production growth, major LNG developments and high-impact frontier exploration.

IAE 2026 is an exclusive forum designed to connect African energy markets with global investors, serving as a key platform for deal-making in the lead-up to African Energy Week. Scheduled for April 22–23, 2026, in Paris, the event will provide delegates with two days of in-depth engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or register as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

Have your say on policy to strengthen financial literacy

Source: Government of South Africa

Have your say on policy to strengthen financial literacy

In a move that will empower South Africans to make informed financial decisions and reduce their vulnerability to exploitation, government has released the draft National Consumer Financial Education Policy for public comment. 

“The draft policy establishes a national framework for financial education and outlines government’s proposed approach to strengthening financial literacy, building financial capability, and supporting improved financial well-being in an evolving and increasingly digitalised financial landscape,” National Treasury said on Friday.

It outlines policy priorities, governance arrangements, and system-level coordination tools to strengthen collective impact across the financial education ecosystem and support a coherent national approach.

“South Africa’s financial system is sophisticated and well- regulated, with high levels of access to financial services. However, increased access and product choice have not consistently resulted in improved financial outcomes. 

“As a result of low levels of financial and digital literacy, many financial customers continue to face challenges in using financial products safely, confidently, and in ways that support their long-term financial well-being,” National Treasury said.

Persistent gaps in financial and digital literacy increase vulnerability to exploitation, heighten conduct risks, and erode trust in the financial system.

“Financial education is an integral component of broader policy efforts aimed at ensuring the fair treatment of financial customers, promoting responsible market conduct, and enhancing financial inclusion,” National Treasury said. 

The draft policy is released for public comment to strengthen the proposals outlined in the document and to inform the revision of the National Consumer Financial Education Strategy (NCFES) and its associated Implementation Plan.

Comments on the draft policy are invited until 15 May 2026 and can be sent to: financialeducation.policy@treasury.gov.za.

The National Treasury will also host virtual stakeholder workshops on the draft policy. 

Further details will be communicated in due course. –SAnews.gov.za

 

 

 

 

 

 

nosihle

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Ascott expands in Nairobi with new Citadines signing, reinforcing the city’s position as a regional hub

Source: APO

The Ascott Limited (www.DiscoverASR.com), the wholly owned lodging business unit of Capital and Investment (CLI), has announced the signing of Citadines Westview Nairobi, a 160-key hotel located in the capital’s established Kilimani district. The new property will complement the existing 162-key Somerset Westview Nairobi serviced apartments, forming a strategic dual-brand offering that enhances Ascott’s ability to serve both short- and extended-stay demand across a broader range of traveller segments. Scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2028, Citadines Westview Nairobi is designed to cater to a growing mix of both corporate and leisure travellers as well as the meeting and conferences demand.

Reinforcing Nairobi’s Role as a Regional Business Hub
Nairobi continues to strengthen its position as a key regional business and investment hub, supported by growing corporate activity, infrastructure development and increasing international connectivity. This is driving sustained demand for high-quality, flexible accommodation that caters to both short-term and extended stays. The signing reinforces Ascott’s commitment to expanding in high-potential urban markets and builds on its existing footprint in Kenya, where it currently operates Somerset Westview Nairobi, with additional properties in the pipeline.

Part of Ascott’s Broader Africa Growth Strategy
The Nairobi signing forms part of Ascott’s broader expansion across Africa, where the company has secured 10 signings over the past year. Once fully operational, these will expand its portfolio from two properties today to 23 properties with over 2,800 units across 10 cities in eight countries by 2028. In addition to Kenya, Ascott is growing its presence in key markets including Morocco, Nigeria and Ethiopia, where two properties are slated to open in Addis Ababa’s Bole district, further strengthening its footprint in East Africa.

Vincent Miccolis, Managing Director for Middle East, Africa and Türkiye, The Ascott Limited, said:
“Nairobi is one of Africa’s most important commercial and lifestyle hubs, with strong fundamentals supporting continued growth in hospitality demand. This signing reinforces our commitment to the Kenyan market and reflects our focus on expanding in cities where we see sustained demand from both business and leisure travellers. We are honoured to further strengthen our partnership with Britam on this development, bringing together strong institutional investment and Ascott’s global operating expertise. By introducing Citadines alongside Somerset, we are able to offer a broader range of accommodation options that cater to different guest segments, while maintaining the quality and flexibility that define our brands.”

Ambrose Dabani – CEO & Principal Officer Britam Holdings PLC, said: “This investment reflects our long-term confidence in Nairobi as a key economic and commercial hub in the region. We are focused on high-quality, resilient assets that deliver sustainable value over time. Partnering with Ascott allows us to combine strong real estate fundamentals with an experienced global operator, ensuring the development is well positioned to meet evolving demand for professionally managed accommodation in the market.”

Designed for Modern Urban Living
Citadines Westview Nairobi will offer a mix of well-balanced hotel rooms, studios and one-bedroom apartments, supported by a comprehensive range of amenities including food and beverage outlets, meeting and conferencing facilities, a swimming pool, and a fully equipped gymnasium. The F&B offering will complement the Somerset Westview Nairobi’s Jabu rooftop bar and La Mascotte restaurant, contributing to a more vibrant and integrated lifestyle destination within the development. Strategically located  adjacent to Somerset Westview Nairobi in the prime Kilimani district, the property offers seamless access to Nairobi’s key business hubs and lifestyle destinations, providing guests with the flexibility and convenience for a comfortable stay, whether travelling for business or leisure, on short or extended stays.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Ascott Limited.

Contact:
The Ascott Limited
(Regn No: 197900881N)
168 Robinson Road 
#30-01 Capital Tower
Singapore 068912
t (65) 6713 2888    

Connect with Ascott on:
Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/4c1zwth
Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/4tyUYvy
TikTok: https://apo-opa.co/4chHf58
LinkedIn: http://apo-opa.co/41ueL3k

About The Ascott Limited:
The Ascott Limited (Ascott) is driven by a vision to be the preferred hospitality company, enriching global living with heartfelt experiences. With a portfolio of more than 1,000 properties spanning over 230 cities across more than 40 countries, Ascott’s presence spans Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the USA. Its diverse collection of award-winning brands includes Ascott (http://apo-opa.co/4cB0msl), Citadines (http://apo-opa.co/3QgO4g5), lyf (http://apo-opa.co/4vk2T1o), Oakwood (http://apo-opa.co/4vk2T1o), Somerset (http://apo-opa.co/4sruD1x), The Crest Collection (http://apo-opa.co/41qiJdf), The Unlimited Collection (http://apo-opa.co/4sZIcX1), Fox (http://apo-opa.co/48E7zW9), Harris (http://apo-opa.co/3QgO8MR), POP! (http://apo-opa.co/4vjjUJa), Preference (http://apo-opa.co/3QwpyaP), Quest (http://apo-opa.co/4vm3bEZ, Vertu (http://apo-opa.co/4vBTEKm) and Yello (http://apo-opa.co/48Gc2Yq).

Ascott specialises in managing and franchising a wide range of lodging options, including serviced residences, hotels, resorts, social living properties and branded residences, catering to the varying needs and preferences of global travellers. Through the Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) (http://apo-opa.co/4vnC1gY) loyalty programme, members enjoy exclusive privileges and curated experiences, enhancing every aspect of their travel journey.

As a wholly owned business unit of CapitaLand Investment Limited (http://apo-opa.co/4vnwszi), Ascott generates fee-related revenue by leveraging its expertise in both lodging management and investment management. It also drives the expansion of funds under management by growing its sponsored CapitaLand Ascott Trust (http://apo-opa.co/4cBbUMg) and private funds.

For more information on Ascott and its sustainability programme, please visit: https://apo-opa.co/4mmJpoV

www.DiscoverASR.com

About CapitaLand Investment Limited: 
Headquartered and listed in Singapore in 2021, CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) is a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold.  As at 5 November 2025, CLI had S$120 billion of funds under management.  CLI holds stakes in eight listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts and a suite of private real asset vehicles that invest in demographics, disruption and digitalisation-themed strategies.  Its diversified real asset classes include retail, office, lodging, industrial, logistics, business parks, wellness, self-storage, data centres and private credit.

CLI aims to scale its fund management, lodging management and commercial management businesses globally and maintain effective capital management.  As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand Group’s development arm.

CLI is committed to growing in a responsible manner, delivering long-term economic value and contributing to the environmental and social well-being of its communities.

www.CapitalAndInvest.com

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Gauteng roads dept strengthens internal delivery capacity

Source: Government of South Africa

Gauteng roads dept strengthens internal delivery capacity

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport (GDRT) has embarked on a significant shift to strengthen its internal delivery capacity, following its first strategic engagement focused on the leadership role of the Heidelberg Construction Office in provincial road construction.

The pioneering initiative marks a transformative approach to how the department plans, builds, and maintains road infrastructure, deliberately positioning internal technical expertise at the centre of service delivery.

A key component of this new model is the Road D781 project, located along the north–south corridor of the City of Ekurhuleni. The project has been identified as the flagship implementation of an internally driven construction approach.

The strategic objective of the project is to capacitate the department to independently construct and rehabilitate roads, while reducing reliance on external service providers.

By leveraging internal skills, plant, and project management capability, the department aims to significantly fast-track service delivery, contain costs, and ensure greater control over quality, timelines, and accountability.

Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, said external procurement will be limited to highly specialised services that complement internal capacity, enabling the Department to deploy resources more strategically and efficiently.

With several regional offices located across the province, she said the Heidelberg Construction Office has been earmarked as the lead implementing unit, reflecting its core mandate in road construction, maintenance, and fleet management services.

“The office will serve as a proof of concept for internal road construction excellence, laying the foundation for a scalable model that can be replicated across the province,” Diale-Tlabela explained.

The session ensured full alignment on project objectives, governance processes, roles and responsibilities, and compliance requirements, thereby setting a strong institutional framework for implementation.

The department said the integrated approach underscores its commitment to disciplined execution, transparency, and collaboration across divisions.

Beyond construction, the Road D781 project is designed as an innovation platform. The department plans to actively explore partnerships with institutions of higher learning to support services including materials testing and quality assurance, skills transfer and technical training, and work-integrated learning opportunities for students and graduates.

The incorporation of smart technologies will be a key feature of the project, positioning Road D781 as a modern infrastructure intervention aligned with evolving mobility, technology and sustainability imperatives.

“This internally led road construction project represents a bold departure from conventional delivery models and signals the beginning of a new era in infrastructure development for the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport.

“By investing in its own people, systems, and capabilities, the department is not only accelerating service delivery but also building long-term institutional resilience, skills depth, and operational sovereignty, ensuring better roads, delivered faster, by a capable and empowered public service,” the MEC said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK

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Deputy President Mashatile to address the 5th Human Resource Development Council Summit

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile, in his capacity as Chairperson of the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC), will on Thursday, 16 April 2026, address the 5th HRDC Summit taking place at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Gauteng Province.

The HRDC serves as an independent mechanism for collaboration between Government, business, labour and civil society, in the implementation of the integrated Human Resource Development Strategy for South Africa. The Council serves to enable Government and social partners to identify and respond collectively to agreed upon human resource development needs, in support of economic and social development.

Under the theme ““Living and Working in a Changing World”, the two-day Summit aims to, amongst others, launch the Reconceptualised HRD Strategy and the Master Skills Plan; share best practices in terms of human resource development and especially Workplace-Based Learning (WPBL) from a regional and global perspective; provide a platform for the development of collaborative programmes that will empower youth to actively participate in the economy through WPBL and other initiatives; and pursue the integration of digital skills into all skills development programmes.

The Summit will also receive a report on the implementation of the Social Compacts arising from the 4th HRDC Summit held in 2021, as well as allow constituencies to review and refresh these Compacts in recognition of the rapidly changing workplace.

It is expected that the Summit will be attended by Government Department representatives, Councils and Authority Bodies in the education space, Business, Labour, and Civil Society. 

Details of the Summit are as follows:

Date: Thursday, 16 April 2026
Time: 09h00 (media to arrive at 08h00)
Venue: Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand, Gauteng Province
 
Members of the media interested in covering the Summit are kindly requested to submit their details (Full Name, Media House, ID/Passport Number and Role) to Ms Linah Ledwaba on LinahL@presidency.gov.za or 066 240 7635.

Deadline for accreditation is 14 April 2026, end of business. Accreditation can be collected from 15 April 2026 at the Gallagher Convention Centre.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840.

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Century Group Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 as Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) Partner, Showcasing Regional Offshore Expansion

Source: APO


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Century Group has been confirmed as an Energy Infrastructure and FPSO Partner at African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 in Cape Town, reflecting its growing footprint as one of Nigeria’s leading indigenous offshore operators. The company’s participation underscores its expanding operational capacity, fleet strength and role in driving local content and infrastructure solutions across Africa.

Century Group’s operational strategy is evolving beyond traditional service provision toward asset ownership, infrastructure management and regional expansion. In October 2025, the company confirmed it is in ongoing discussions with South African partners about potential oil and gas infrastructure projects, highlighting its interest in deploying FPSO and midstream solutions into new regional markets.

At AEW 2026, Century Group will showcase how indigenous operators can support offshore production stability, build local capacity and forge strategic investment partnerships. Its asset portfolio and regional collaborations reflect Nigeria’s evolving offshore landscape, where local operators are increasingly ensuring production continuity, reducing bottlenecks and connecting domestic output to export markets – capabilities central to discussions at AEW’s upstream and infrastructure sessions.

“At AEW 2026, Century Group will showcase not only its fleet capabilities but also its strategic vision for offshore infrastructure development,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “This partnership highlights how African-led solutions are increasingly shaping the continent’s energy landscape and how indigenous operators can bridge technical execution with regional growth opportunities.”

The company’s broader engagement in continental energy dialogues further underscores its strategic outlook. Century Group executives have advocated for deeper Africa‑Gulf partnerships, identifying Africa’s youthful demographics and growing energy demand as opportunities for joint investment and capability development in global energy markets.

These developments align with a wider shift in Nigeria’s energy ecosystem, where local capacity and policy reforms are boosting indigenous participation, enhancing competitiveness and unlocking private capital. Century Group’s trajectory – from managing FPSO/FSO infrastructure to cross-border expansion and strategic partnerships – reinforces its value as an FPSO partner for AEW and as a leader in Africa’s offshore energy sector.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Receives Phone Call from Peruvian Foreign Minister

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, April 10, 2026

HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi received Friday a telephone call from HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Peru, Hugo de Zela.
The call addressed the latest developments in the region in light of the ceasefire agreement between the US and the Islamic Republic of Iran, as well as a number of other issues of mutual interest.
During the call, HE the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs reiterated the State of Qatar’s welcome of the ceasefire agreement and stressed the urgent need to build upon it to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the security of maritime routes and the freedom of navigation and international trade in accordance with international law, which contributes to maintaining regional stability and global supply chains.
For his part, HE the Peruvian Foreign Minister expressed his country’s solidarity with the State of Qatar amidst the developments unfolding in the region.