Lesufi wishes the Class of 2025 well ahead of NSC exams

Source: Government of South Africa

With just hours to go before the start of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has wished the Class of 2025 well ahead of them putting pen to paper.

“On behalf of the Gauteng Provincial Government, I wish the Class of 2025 all the best in their upcoming final examinations. May your hard work and dedication throughout the year bear fruit as you prepare for these exams, which mark the culmination of your basic education,” the Premier said in a statement on Sunday.

This year, a total of 188,057 candidates have registered to write the NSC exams in Gauteng (144,315 full-time and 43,742 part-time learners).

The NSC exams will begin on Tuesday, 21 October 2025. The first day of the examinations will begin with the Computer Applications Tech P1, Practical exam in the morning session, followed by the Hindi, Gujarati, Tamil, Telegu, Urdu HL P1, Hindi, Gujarati, Tamil, Telegu, Urdu FAL P1  Hindi, Gujarati, Tamil, Telegu, Urdu SAL P1, Hebrew SAL P1, German HL, and SAL P1 in the afternoon session.

The provincial government said that it has consistently maintained its position among the top three performing provinces in the NSC examinations. In 2024, the province achieved an 88.4% pass rate, placing it third nationally behind the Free State (91%) and KwaZulu-Natal (89.5%).

“The examinations will take place at 1,007 centres across the province (741 public schools, 267 independent schools, and 25 designated centres). Throughout the year, the Gauteng Provincial Government has worked tirelessly to support and prepare the matriculants for success.

“All parents and guardians are called upon to support the learners throughout the exam period. Systems have also been put in place to mitigate potential disruptions, such as service delivery protests and operational challenges, ensuring that all learners can write their exams under safe and conducive conditions,” it said.

The provincial government said it remains confident that the Class of 2025 will continue the province’s proud tradition of academic excellence and resilience.

Meanwhile, Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, will hold a press briefing on Monday, 20 October 2025, to present the state of readiness for the 2025 National Senior Certificate examinations. 

READ | Gwarube to brief media on 2025 matric exams readiness

The annual matric exams are an important milestone in South Africa’s basic education calendar. –SAnews.gov.za 
 

G20 adopts SA’s environmental issues

Source: Government of South Africa

For the first time in the history of the Group of Twenty (G20), South Africa has successfully placed issues of air quality and crimes that affect the environment on the forum’s agenda.

Both issues were adopted by G20 through the Ministerial Declaration on Crimes that Affect the Environment and the Cape Town Ministerial Declaration on Air Quality, signalling global recognition of their urgency and cross-cutting impact on people, ecosystems and economies.

“They speak to the daily realities of our citizens: the air they breathe, the safety of their natural heritage, and the rule of law that protects it. Under South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group, we brought these critical issues to the top of the global  agenda, protecting our people and our environment, ensuring that justice and health walk hand in hand,” Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dr Dion George, said.

The Cape Town Ministerial Declaration on Crimes that Affect the Environment calls for stronger global cooperation to combat illegal wildlife trade, deforestation, mining, waste trafficking and other transnational crimes that undermine environmental security, societies and economic integrity.

It commits G20 members to foster synergies among different policies and sectors and mobilising all sources of financial resources, improve data and monitoring, and scale up support for communities most affected by air pollution.

Together, the two declarations mark a turning point in the global environmental agenda and reflect South Africa’s leadership in linking environmental stewardship with social and economic wellbeing. 

The Minister said the outcomes will inform the G20 Leaders’ Declaration to be considered at next month’s Summit in Johannesburg.

“This is what leadership looks like: practical cooperation that improves lives and strengthens the link between nature, people and prosperity. As Archbishop Desmond Tutu reminded us, we remain prisoners of hope, steadfast in the belief that each act of cooperation brings us closer to the world we want to see,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Computer-Aided Textile Design Laboratory Established in Tunisia

Source: APO

A “Computer-Aided Textile Design (CAD) Laboratory Establishment Project” has been implemented by the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) in Kelibia, Nabeul Governorate, to enhance vocational training capacities and support the development of a skilled workforce for Tunisia’s textile and garment industry.

Within the scope of the project, a modern Computer-Aided Design (CAD) laboratory was established at the Kelibia Vocational Training Center, which operates under the Tunisian Vocational Training Agency (ATFP). The laboratory has been equipped with high-performance computers, advanced design devices, and professional design software widely used in the textile industry.

Through this facility, students will gain the ability to design garments digitally, test prototypes in virtual environments, and reduce production errors before manufacturing. The project will thus improve the employability of graduates while enabling local textile companies to access qualified personnel trained in modern production techniques.

The textile and apparel sector in Tunisia accounts for approximately 30% of the country’s total industrial exports and provides direct employment to more than 160,000 people through over 1,600 companies. The sector remains one of Tunisia’s key strategic industries and a major contributor to its economy.

By supporting this initiative, TİKA contributes to the modernization of the Tunisian textile sector and the alignment of vocational training with the needs of the labor market. The project also complements Tunisia’s national policies aimed at reducing youth unemployment and strengthening vocational education.

TİKA continues to support local development in Tunisia through projects that enhance vocational education quality, promote youth employment, and foster digital transformation across industrial sectors.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA).

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A Decade of Change: How Canon’s Young People Programme is Rebuilding Confidence Worldwide

Source: APO

As today’s young people navigate a range of ongoing global pressures, new research (https://apo-opa.co/4qkQBDz) from the University of Northampton’s Institute for Social Innovation and Impact (ISII) has revealed the powerful role of initiatives such as the Canon Young People Programme (CYPP) in improving youth confidence, resilience and a sense of purpose.

As Canon EMEA celebrates the 10th anniversary of its Canon Young People Programme, which uses photography as a tool for self-expression, storytelling and social change, the research confirms CYPP’s significant and lasting impact on young people, communities, and partner organisations worldwide.

“At a time when many young people across the world are grappling with a multitude of different pressures, this research is proof that creative empowerment can be a lifeline,” said Adam Pensotti, Head of the Canon EMEA Young People Programme “In partnership with Northampton University, we’ve explored and uncovered just how impactful and far-reaching initiatives such as CYPP can be.

For 10 years, the programme has shown that when you give young people the tools, skills, and trust to tell their own stories, they can change their lives and their communities for the better. This helps to strengthen communities, influence change and inspire the next generation of leaders.”

Since its launch in 2015, CYPP has engaged over 10,000 young people across EMEA, partnering with more than 40 charities and community organisations in over 36 participant countries.

Youth Voices at the Heart

Participants describe CYPP as life-changing:

“When I first joined the Canon Young People Programme through Wild Shots Outreach, I had never held a camera and knew almost nothing about conservation” said Rifumo Mathebula, CYPP alumnus and Programme Director at Wild Shots Outreach. “I discovered I had a passion for storytelling and felt a responsibility to protect the natural world around me. Today, I’m teaching the next generation of young people living alongside Kruger National Park, giving them the same opportunities I received through CYPP. The programme gave me a voice, a purpose and the belief that we can all be changemakers in our communities.”

Through visual storytelling and skills training, CYPP empowers young people to address local social and environmental challenges, develop leadership capacity and explore new career paths. Over the last 10 years, alumni are emerging as community champions, entrepreneurs, and agents of change. The independent ISII evaluation confirms that:

  • Longer participation leads to greater impact: the more time young people spend in CYPP, the more their confidence, motivation, and adaptability grow.
  • Empowerment through photography: participants gain a voice in their communities, using visual storytelling to highlight social and environmental issues.
  • Improved employability: photography and critical thinking skills open doors to new career paths, from creative industries to tourism and conservation.
  • Ripple effects in communities: youth-led exhibitions and projects inspire dialogue, strengthen community bonds, and address local challenges.
  • Best practice partnerships: CYPP’s collaboration model between corporations, NGOs, and academia is cited as a benchmark for effective social impact initiatives.

“In a global climate where youth confidence and wellbeing are a priority, CYPP stands out as a proven model for positive empowerment,” said UON Vice Chancellor and CEO, Professor Anne-Marie Kilday. “Over the last 10 years, the programme has delivered measurable and lasting change for its participants and their communities.

What’s most exciting is that this research suggests that this model for measuring creative empowerment can be measurable and scalable. This kind of impact measurement is something that many social impact initiatives struggle to demonstrate, which can limit their growth and opportunities. We believe that this can serve as a blueprint for how corporate, non-profit, and academic partnerships can deliver real, lasting social change. Effectively bringing more opportunities to a wider group of young individuals.”

Looking Ahead

As CYPP enters its second decade, Canon is exploring:

  • Longer-term interventions to deepen impact
  • Country-specific adaptations to address local challenges
  • Expanded NGO training streams to scale best practice globally

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

APO Group – PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com

About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (www.Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.

Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (https://apo-opa.co/43tUo7D) – ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

For more information: www.Canon-CNA.com

About the Research:
The research (https://apo-opa.co/4qkQBDz), led by Professor Claire Paterson-Young and Dr Michael Maher at the University of Northampton, used a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the social impact of the Canon Young People Programme. Qualitative data was collected through focus groups with in-country stakeholders, organisational leaders, and young people, representing 21 voices in total. Quantitative data was gathered through an online questionnaire that used both Likert scales and open-ended questions with responses from 94 participants across six geographical areas. The qualitative data was through a thematic analysis, whilst ANOVA statistical tests were applied to the quantitative data. Findings from both methods were triangulated across three thematic areas: the impact on young people, the impact on communities, and the impact on organisations.

About the Canon Young People Programme:
The Canon Young People Programme uses the power of creative storytelling to give young people the skills and platforms to drive positive change in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Since 2015, CYPP has worked with over 40 NGOs and community organisations in 36 countries, engaging more than 10,000 young people.

About the Institute for Social Innovation and Impact:
Based at the University of Northampton, the ISII specialises in evaluating the social impact of organisations and programmes, helping them understand and maximise the value they create for individuals, communities, and society.

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Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Meets Ambassador of Germany

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | October 20 2025

HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi met on Monday with HE Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany Oliver Owcza.
During the meeting, they discussed cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and strengthen them.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Meets Ambassador of France

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | October 20 2025

HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi met on Monday with HE Ambassador of the French Republic to the State of Qatar Arnaud Pescheux.
During the meeting, they discussed cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and strengthen them.

Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa) Appoints APO Group Founder Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard to its Advisory Board

Source: APO

APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading pan-African communications and news distribution consultancy, is delighted to announce that its Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), has been appointed to the Advisory Board of Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa) 2026 (www.FutureHospitality.com/africa).

Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa) – formerly known as the Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF) – is the continent’s leading annual hospitality investment conference. It serves as a meeting place for senior hotel investors, developers, operators, and advisors from across Africa and around the world. The event connects business leaders from both international and local markets to enable deals that drive investment and development into tourism projects, infrastructure, and hotel assets across Africa.

Watch the Future Hospitality Summit  2024 video: https://apo-opa.co/43kqjY8

As a member of the Advisory Board, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard will play an instrumental role in shaping the strategic direction of FHS Africa by sharing valuable insights on the key themes and topics that will define the event’s agenda. His perspective will help ensure that FHS Africa continues to deliver impactful, relevant, and future-focused discussions for the continent’s hospitality and investment sectors.

From 2019 to 2025, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard has served as a long-standing member of the Advisory Board of the Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF) – the premier hotel investment conference in Africa – and has been an active speaker at both AHIF and the Forum de l’Investissement Hôtelier Africain (FIHA).

In July 2019, APO Group entered a long-term partnership with Bench Events, organisers of AHIF (now FHS Africa), to help drive hotel investment across the African continent (https://apo-opa.co/4nZJpLq).

Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard believes that the hospitality sector plays a pivotal role in advancing Africa’s economies:

“Hotels are a cornerstone of Africa’s growth story. They attract tourism, stimulate foreign investment, and generate foreign currency. More importantly, they provide a platform for vital business meetings and events that bring together multinational organisations across the continent.”

Through his continued involvement with FHS Africa, Nicolas aims to further support initiatives that strengthen Africa’s position as a leading destination for hospitality investment and development.

Named among the Top 100 Most Influential Africans of 2023 and 2024, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard serves in multiple senior advisory capacities across key sectors. He is a Senior Advisory Board Member at the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business; Strategic Advisor to the Chief Executive Officer of the Royal African Society (United Kingdom) and to the European Union – Africa Chamber of Commerce (EUACC); and Special Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa. He is also an Advisory Board Member at the Africa Energy Chamber (AEC), the Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG), the World Football Summit (WFS), and the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) Africa. Additionally, he serves as a Member of the Africa Tech Festival / AfricaCom Leadership Council, a Member of the Pan-Africa Ubuntu Circle of The ONE Campaign, and an International Committee Member at the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).

More information about Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard: http://apo-opa.co/47l521L

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

APO Group Media Contact:
marie@apo-opa.com

About APO Group: 
Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) is the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact both on the continent and globally.  

Our commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including a PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award and multiple PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards. In 2023, we were named the Leading Public Relations Firm Africa and the Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa in the World Business Outlook Awards, and the Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy Agency of the Year South Africa in 2024 and again in 2025 in the same awards. In 2025, Brands Review Magazine acknowledged us as the Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa for the second consecutive year. They also named us the Best PR Agency and the Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa in 2024. Additionally, in 2025, we were honoured with the Gold distinction for Best PR Campaign and Bronze in the Special Event category at the Davos Communications Awards.

APO Group’s esteemed clientele, which includes global giants such as Emirates, Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, the UNDP, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa’s Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape. With a multicultural team across Africa, we offer unmatched, truly pan-African insights, expertise, and reach across the continent. APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences. 

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Le fondateur d’APO Group, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, nommé au Conseil consultatif de Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), le leader panafricain du conseil en communication et de la distribution de communiqués de presse, est ravi d’annoncer que son fondateur et président, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), a été nommé au conseil consultatif de la conférence annuelle sur l’investissement hôtelier en Afrique dénommée Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa) 2026 (www.FutureHospitality.com/africa).

Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa), anciennement connue sous le nom d’Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), est la principale conférence annuelle sur l’investissement hôtelier du Continent. Un espace de rencontre entre investisseurs, développeurs, exploitants et conseillers hôteliers de haut niveau venus d’Afrique et du monde entier. Cet événement permet aux chefs d’entreprise des marchés internationaux et locaux de se rencontrer afin de conclure des accords stimulant l’investissement et le développement de projets touristiques, d’infrastructures et d’actifs hôteliers en Afrique.

Regarder la vidéo de la conférence Future Hospitality Summit 2024 : https://apo-opa.co/43kqjY8

En tant que membre du conseil consultatif, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard jouera un rôle déterminant dans l’élaboration de l’orientation stratégique de la conférence FHS Africa en partageant des informations précieuses sur les thèmes et sujets clés qui définiront le programme de l’événement. Grâce à sa vision, FHS Africa pourra continuer de proposer des discussions percutantes, pertinentes et tournées vers l’avenir pour les secteurs de l’hôtellerie et de l’investissement du Continent.

Depuis 2019, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard était membre permanent du conseil consultatif de l’Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), la première conférence sur l’investissement hôtelier en Afrique. Il est reconnu pour avoir été un intervenant actif à la fois à l’AHIF et au Forum de l’Investissement Hôtelier Africain (FIHA).

En juillet 2019, APO Group et Bench Events, l’organisateur de l’Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), maintenant FHS Africa ont conclu un accord de collaboration de grande envergure visant à stimuler les investissements dans le secteur de l’hôtellerie en Afrique (https://apo-opa.co/4o0m3Wg).  

Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard estime que le secteur de l’hôtellerie joue un rôle essentiel dans l’avancement des économies africaines.

Il a déclaré :

« Les hôtels sont un pilier de la croissance de l’Afrique. Ils attirent le tourisme, stimulent les investissements étrangers et génèrent des devises. Plus important encore, ils offrent une plateforme pour des réunions et événements d’affaires essentiels qui rassemblent des multinationales de tout le Continent ».

Grâce à son engagement ininterrompu pour la conférence FHS Africa, Nicolas souhaite soutenir davantage les initiatives qui renforcent la position de l’Afrique en tant que destination de premier plan pour l’investissement et le développement de l’hôtellerie.

Classé parmi les 100 Africains les plus influents de 2023 et 2024, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard occupe plusieurs postes de conseiller dans des secteurs clés. Il est membre du conseil consultatif principal de la Chambre de commerce Canada-Afrique ; conseiller stratégique auprès du directeur général de la Royal African Society (Royaume-Uni) et de la Chambre de commerce Union européenne-Afrique (EUACC) ; et conseiller spécial auprès du président de Rugby Africa. Il est membre du conseil consultatif d’African Energy Chamber (AEC), du Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG), du World Football Summit (WFS) et du Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) Africa, du Conseil de direction d’Africa Tech Festival / AfricaCom (l’événement technologique majeur qui se tient chaque année au Cap, en Afrique du Sud). Il est également membre de l’initiative Pan-Africa Ubuntu Circle lancée par l’ONG ONE Campaign visant à rassembler des leaders africains influents autour des valeurs de solidarité, d’inclusion et de transformation sociale sur le Continent ainsi que du Comité international des All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).

Plus d’informations sur Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard : http://apo-opa.co/3WaZHVI

Distribué par APO Group pour APO Group.

Contact presse :
marie@apo-opa.com

À propos d’APO Group : 
Fondé en 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) est le leader panafricain du conseil en communication et de la distribution de communiqués de presse. Réputés pour notre expertise africaine profondément enracinée et notre perspective globale, nous sommes spécialisés dans l’optimisation de la réputation et de la valeur de la marque des organisations privées et publiques à travers l’Afrique. En tant que partenaire de confiance, notre mission consiste à exploiter le pouvoir des médias, en élaborant des stratégies sur mesure qui ont un impact tangible et mesurable en Afrique et au-delà.

Notre engagement en faveur de l’excellence et de l’innovation a été récompensé par des prix prestigieux, notamment un PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award et plusieurs PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards. En 2023, l’excellence d’APO Group a été récompensée lors du World Business Outlook Awards pour les catégories de meilleur cabinet de relations publiques d’Afrique (Leading Public Relations Firm Africa) ainsi que de meilleur cabinet de conseil en communication panafricain d’Afrique (Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa). L’excellence d’APO Group a également été récompensée dans la catégorie de meilleure agence de conseil en relations publiques et médias de l’année en Afrique du Sud (Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy of the Year South Africa) lors des éditions 2024 et 2025 de ce même prix. En 2025, le magazine en ligne Brands Review Magazine nous a reconnus en tant que meilleur cabinet de conseil en communication (Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa) pour la seconde année consécutive. Le magazine nous a également nommé meilleure agence de relations publiques (Best PR Agency) et meilleure plateforme de diffusion de communiqués de presse d’Afrique (Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa) en 2024. De plus, en 2025, nous avons reçu la médaille d’or pour la meilleure campagne de relations publiques (Best PR Campaign) et la médaille de bronze dans la catégorie Événement spécial (Special Event) aux Davos Communications Awards.

La prestigieuse clientèle d’APO Group, qui comprend des géants mondiaux tels qu’Emirates, Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, le PNUD, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa’s Business Heroes et Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflète notre capacité inégalée à évoluer dans le paysage médiatique africain complexe. Forts de notre équipe multiculturelle répartie sur le Continent, nous offrons une expertise, une vision et une portée inégalées et véritablement panafricaines. APO Group se consacre à la refonte de la narration sur l’Afrique, à la remise en question des stéréotypes et à la présentation de narratifs africains inspirants à un public mondial. Notre expertise dans l’élaboration et l’accompagnement de campagnes de relations publiques dans le monde entier nous permet d’amplifier les messages des marques, de renforcer les réputations et d’établir un lien pertinent avec les publics cibles.

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Hyatt Announces Plans for Hyatt Regency Brand in Zambia

Source: APO

Hyatt (www.Hyatt.com) announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a management agreement with an affiliate of ASB Hotel Properties and Albwardy Investments (Pamodzi Hotels PLC) to bring the full service Hyatt Regency brand to Lusaka in Zambia, with Hyatt Regency Lusaka The Pamodzi.

Currently The Pamodzi Hotel, the property will undergo extensive renovations while remaining open, with plans to reopen under the Hyatt Regency brand in 2026. The five-star hotel will mark the debut of the Hyatt Regency brand in Zambia, thoughtfully expanding Hyatt’s portfolio in a new destination and providing World of Hyatt members and guests with more options to stay around the world. Upon opening under the Hyatt Regency brand, World of Hyatt members will be able to earn and redeem points and tier-qualifying night credits.

“We are delighted to work with ASB Hotel Properties, Albwardy Investments and Pamodzi Hotels PLC to bring the Hyatt Regency brand to Zambia in 2026,” said Stephen Ansell, Managing Director, Middle East and Africa, Hyatt. “This signing is a fantastic milestone as we continue growing our brands in Africa, showcasing our commitment to enhancing our brand presence in the region and expanding our Classics Portfolio in new destinations.”

“We are proud to collaborate with Hyatt and Pamodzi Hotels PLC to introduce the Hyatt Regency brand to Zambia,” said Mr. Ali Albwardy, Chairman, Albwardy Investments. “The Pamodzi Hotel has long been a landmark in Lusaka, and through this renovation and rebranding, we aim to elevate it into a world-class destination for both business and leisure travelers. This project reflects Albwardy Investments’ continued commitment to Africa’s hospitality sector and to creating exceptional guest experiences in markets with strong growth potential.”

Nestled in the urban capital, Hyatt Regency Lusaka The Pamodzi will offer 170 well-appointed guestrooms and suites, with contemporary décor and thoughtful design to provide travelers with a premium stay. Meeting and event spaces are designed for guests to gather and connect, catering to both large-scale conferences and intimate settings for special occasions. The hotel’s location is near the city’s key business district and tourist attractions, including the Lusaka National Museum which explores Zambian history, culture and art. For travelers seeking an African adventure, the property is a 30-minute drive from wildlife experiences such as Lusaka National Park and the Elephant Orphanage Project (Game Rangers International).

To learn more about the Hyatt Regency brand, please visit www.HyattRegency.com.

For additional details or bookings at the hotel in Lusaka, visit https://apo-opa.co/4hlTboH

The term “Hyatt” is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Hyatt.

Media Contact:
Chloe Duncan
Hyatt – Middle East & Africa
Chloe.duncan@hyatt.com

Follow @ HyattRegency on:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4hnlinB
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Tag photos with #HyattRegency

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation:
Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose – to care for people so they can be their best. As of June 30, 2025, the Company’s portfolio included more than 1,450 hotels and all-inclusive properties in 80 countries across six continents. The Company’s offering includes brands in the Luxury Portfolio, including Park Hyatt®, Alila®, Miraval®, Impression by Secrets, and The Unbound Collection by Hyatt®; the Lifestyle Portfolio, including Andaz®, Thompson Hotels®, The Standard®, Dream® Hotels, The StandardX, Breathless Resorts & Spas®, JdV by Hyatt®, Bunkhouse® Hotels, and Me and All Hotels; the Inclusive Collection, including Zoëtry® Wellness & Spa Resorts, Hyatt Ziva®, Hyatt Zilara®, Secrets® Resorts & Spas, Dreams® Resorts & Spas, Hyatt Vivid Hotels & Resorts, Sunscape® Resorts & Spas, Alua Hotels & Resorts®, and Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts; the Classics Portfolio, including Grand Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Destination by Hyatt®, Hyatt Centric®, Hyatt Vacation Club®, and Hyatt®; and the Essentials Portfolio, including Caption by Hyatt®, Unscripted by Hyatt, Hyatt Place®, Hyatt House®, Hyatt Studios, Hyatt Select, and UrCove. Subsidiaries of the Company operate the World of Hyatt® loyalty program, ALG Vacations®, Mr & Mrs Smith, Unlimited Vacation Club®, Amstar® DMC destination management services, and Trisept Solutions® technology services. For more information, please visit www.Hyatt.com.

About Hyatt Regency:
The Hyatt Regency brand is a global collection of hotels and resorts found in more than 235 locations in over 50 countries around the world. The depth and breadth of this diverse portfolio, from expansive resorts to urban city centers, is a testament to the brand’s evolutionary spirit. For more than 50 years, the Hyatt Regency brand has championed fresh perspectives and enriching experiences, while its forward-thinking philosophy provides guests with inviting spaces that bring people together and foster a spirit of community.  As a hospitality original, Hyatt Regency hotels and resorts are founded on openness—our colleagues consistently serve with open minds and open hearts to deliver unforgettable celebrations, effortless relaxation and notable culinary experiences alongside expert meetings and technology-enabled collaboration. The brand prides itself on an everlasting reputation for insightful care—one that welcomes all people across all countries and cultures, generation after generation. For more information, please visit www.HyattRegency.com.

Forward-Looking Statements:
Forward-Looking Statements in this press release, which are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Our actual results, performance or achievements may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as “may,” “could,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “seek,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “likely,” “will,” “would” and variations of these terms and similar expressions, or the negative of these terms or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by us and our management, are inherently uncertain. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to: general economic uncertainty in key global markets and a worsening of global economic conditions or low levels of economic growth; the rate and pace of economic recovery following economic downturns; global supply chain constraints and interruptions, rising costs of construction-related labor and materials, and increases in costs due to inflation or other factors that may not be fully offset by increases in revenues in our business; risks affecting the luxury, resort, and all-inclusive lodging segments; levels of spending in business, leisure, and group segments, as well as consumer confidence; declines in occupancy and average daily rate; limited visibility with respect to future bookings; loss of key personnel; domestic and international political and geopolitical conditions, including political or civil unrest or changes in trade policy; the impact of global tariff policies or regulations; hostilities, or fear of hostilities, including future terrorist attacks, that affect travel; travel-related accidents; natural or man-made disasters, weather and climate-related events, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, tornadoes, droughts, floods, wildfires, oil spills, nuclear incidents, and global outbreaks of pandemics or contagious diseases, or fear of such outbreaks; our ability to successfully achieve specified levels of operating profits at hotels that have performance tests or guarantees in favor of our third-party owners; the impact of hotel renovations and redevelopments; risks associated with our capital allocation plans, share repurchase program, and dividend payments, including a reduction in, or elimination or suspension of, repurchase activity or dividend payments; the seasonal and cyclical nature of the real estate and hospitality businesses; changes in distribution arrangements, such as through internet travel intermediaries; changes in the tastes and preferences of our customers; relationships with colleagues and labor unions and changes in labor laws; the financial condition of, and our relationships with, third-party owners, franchisees, and hospitality venture partners; the possible inability of third-party owners, franchisees, or development partners to access the capital necessary to fund current operations or implement our plans for growth; risks associated with potential acquisitions and dispositions and our ability to successfully integrate completed acquisitions with existing operations or realize anticipated synergies; failure to successfully complete proposed transactions, including the failure to satisfy closing conditions or obtain required approvals; our ability to successfully complete dispositions of certain of our owned real estate assets within targeted timeframes and at expected values; our ability to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures; declines in the value of our real estate assets; unforeseen terminations of our management and hotel services agreements or franchise agreements; changes in federal, state, local, or foreign tax law; increases in interest rates, wages, and other operating costs; foreign exchange rate fluctuations or currency restructurings; risks associated with the introduction of new brand concepts, including lack of acceptance of new brands or innovation; general volatility of the capital markets and our ability to access such markets; changes in the competitive environment in our industry, industry consolidation, and the markets where we operate; our ability to successfully grow the World of Hyatt loyalty program and manage the Unlimited Vacation Club paid membership program; cyber incidents and information technology failures; outcomes of legal or administrative proceedings; and violations of regulations or laws related to our franchising business and licensing businesses and our international operations; and other risks discussed in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including our annual report on Form 10-K and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, which filings are available from the SEC. These factors are not necessarily all of the important factors that could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by any of our forward-looking statementsWe caution you not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which are made only as of the date of this press release. We undertake no obligation to update publicly any of these forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, new information or future events, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable law. If we update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that we will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.

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Hyatt annonce l’arrivée de la marque Hyatt Regency en Zambie

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Hyatt (www.Hyatt.com) a annoncé aujourd’hui qu’une filiale de Hyatt a signé un accord de gestion avec une filiale d’ASB Hotel Properties et Albwardy Investments (Pamodzi Hotels PLC) pour implanter la marque Hyatt Regency à Lusaka en Zambie, avec le Hyatt Regency Lusaka The Pamodzi.

Actuellement exploité sous l’enseigne The Pamodzi Hotel, l’établissement bénéficiera d’une rénovation d’envergure tout en restant ouvert, avant de rouvrir sous pavillon Hyatt Regency en 2026. Cet hôtel cinq étoiles marquera l’arrivée de la marque Hyatt Regency en Zambie, enrichissant stratégiquement le portefeuille Hyatt dans une destination inédite et offrant aux membres World of Hyatt ainsi qu’à l’ensemble des clients de nouvelles possibilités d’hébergement à travers le monde. Dès l’ouverture, les membres World of Hyatt pourront cumuler et utiliser leurs points ainsi que leurs crédits de nuitées qualifiantes.

« Nous nous réjouissons de cette collaboration avec ASB Hotel Properties, Albwardy Investments et Pamodzi Hotels PLC pour introduire la marque Hyatt Regency en Zambie en 2026 », a commenté Stephen Ansell, Managing Director, Middle East and Africa, Hyatt. « Cette signature représente une avancée remarquable dans notre développement continental, illustrant notre volonté de consolider la présence de nos marques en Afrique et d’étendre notre portefeuille Classics vers de nouveaux horizons. »

« Nous sommes fiers de nous associer à Hyatt et Pamodzi Hotels PLC pour faire découvrir la marque Hyatt Regency à la Zambie », a déclaré M. Ali Albwardy, Président d’Albwardy Investments. « The Pamodzi Hotel est depuis longtemps un établissement emblématique de Lusaka, et grâce à cette rénovation et ce rebranding, nous visons à l’élever au rang de destination de classe mondiale pour les voyageurs d’affaires comme de loisirs. Ce projet illustre l’engagement continu d’Albwardy Investments dans le secteur de l’hôtellerie africaine et notre volonté de créer des expériences client d’exception sur des marchés à fort potentiel de croissance. »

Situé au cœur de la capitale, le Hyatt Regency Lusaka The Pamodzi comptera 170 chambres et suites raffinées, alliant décoration contemporaine et aménagement pensé pour garantir un séjour premium. Les espaces dédiés aux réunions et événements favorisent les rencontres et les échanges, s’adaptant aussi bien aux grandes conférences qu’aux rassemblements plus intimistes. L’hôtel bénéficie d’un emplacement privilégié à proximité du quartier d’affaires central et des principales attractions touristiques, dont le Musée national de Lusaka qui retrace l’histoire, la culture et l’art zambiens. Les amateurs d’aventures africaines apprécieront la proximité (à seulement 30 minutes en voiture) d’expériences nature exceptionnelles : Le Parc national de Lusaka et la Pouponnière d’éléphants de Lilayi (Game Rangers International).

Pour découvrir l’univers de la marque Hyatt Regency, rendez-vous sur www.HyattRegency.com.

Pour plus d’informations ou effectuer une réservation à Lusaka, consultez https://apo-opa.co/4hlTboH

Le terme « Hyatt » est utilisé dans le présent communiqué pour désigner Hyatt Hotels Corporation et/ou une ou plusieurs de ses filiales.

Distribué par APO Group pour Hyatt.

Contact Presse :
Chloe Duncan
Hyatt – Middle East & Africa
Chloe.duncan@hyatt.com

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À propos de Hyatt Hotels Corporation:
Hyatt Hotels Corporation, dont le siège social est situé à Chicago, est un leader mondial de l’hôtellerie guidé par son objectif : prendre soin des gens afin qu’ils puissent donner le meilleur d’eux-mêmes. Au 30 juin 2025, le portefeuille de la Société comprenait plus de 1 450 hôtels et établissements tout compris, répartis dans 80 pays, sur six continents. L’offre de la Société comprend des marques dans le Portefeuille Luxe, dont Park Hyatt®, Alila®, Miraval®, Impression by Secrets et The Unbound Collection by Hyatt®; le Portefeuille Lifestyle, dont Andaz®, Thompson Hotels®, The Standard®, Dream® Hotels, The StandardX, Breathless Resorts & Spas®, JdV by Hyatt®, Bunkhouse® Hotels et Me and All Hotels; la Collection Inclusive, dont Zoëtry® Wellness & Spa Resorts, Hyatt Ziva®, Hyatt Zilara®, Secrets® Resorts & Spas, Dreams® Resorts & Spas, Hyatt Vivid Hotels & Resorts, Sunscape® Resorts & Spas, Alua Hotels & Resorts®, et Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts; le Portefeuille Classics, dont Grand Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Destination by Hyatt®, Hyatt Centric®, Hyatt Vacation Club®, et Hyatt®; ainsi que le Portefeuille Essentials, dont Caption by Hyatt®, Unscripted by Hyatt, Hyatt Place®, Hyatt House®, Hyatt Studios, Hyatt Select, et UrCove. Les filiales de la Société gèrent le programme de fidélité World of Hyatt®, ALG Vacations®, Mr & Mrs Smith, Unlimited Vacation Club®, les services de gestion des destinations Amstar® DMC, ainsi que les services technologiques Trisept Solutions®. Pour plus d’informations, rendez-vous sur www.Hyatt.com.

À propos de Hyatt Regency:
La marque Hyatt Regency est une collection mondiale d’hôtels et de resorts répartis sur plus de 235 établissements dans plus de 50 pays à travers le monde. La profondeur et l’étendue de ce portefeuille diversifié, allant de vastes resorts à des centres urbains, témoignent de l’esprit évolutif de la marque. Depuis plus de 50 ans, la marque Hyatt Regency est synonyme de perspectives nouvelles et d’expériences enrichissantes, tandis que sa philosophie avant-gardiste offre à ses clients des espaces accueillants qui rassemblent les gens et favorisent l’esprit de communauté.  En tant qu’hôtellerie originale, les hôtels et resorts Hyatt Regency sont fondés sur l’ouverture d’esprit – nos collègues servent constamment avec des esprits et des cœurs ouverts pour offrir des célébrations inoubliables, une relaxation sans effort et des expériences culinaires remarquables, ainsi que des réunions d’experts et des collaborations basées sur la technologie. La marque jouit d’une réputation inaltérable en matière de services de qualité – une réputation qui accueille toutes les personnes de tous les pays et de toutes les cultures, de génération en génération. Pour plus d’informations, veuillez consulter le site www.HyattRegency.com.

Déclarations prospectives:
Les déclarations prospectives contenues dans ce communiqué de presse, qui ne sont pas des faits historiques, sont des déclarations prospectives au sens du Private Securities Litigation Reform Act de 1995. Nos résultats réels, performances ou réalisations peuvent différer sensiblement de ceux exprimés ou suggérés par ces déclarations prospectives. Dans certains cas, vous pouvez identifier les déclarations prospectives par l’utilisation de termes tels que « peut », « pourrait », « s’attendre à », « avoir l’intention de », « planifier », « chercher à », « anticiper », « croire », « estimer », « prévoir », « potentiel », « continuer », « probable », « va », « voudrait » et des variantes de ces termes et expressions similaires, ou la négation de ces termes ou expressions similaires. Ces déclarations prospectives sont nécessairement basées sur des estimations et des hypothèses qui, bien que considérées comme raisonnables par nous et notre direction, sont intrinsèquement incertaines.

Les facteurs qui peuvent entraîner des écarts importants entre les résultats réels et les attentes actuelles incluent, sans s’y limiter, l’incertitude économique générale sur les principaux marchés mondiaux et une détérioration des conditions économiques mondiales ou des faibles niveaux de croissance économique ; le rythme et la vitesse de la reprise économique après les ralentissements économiques ; les contraintes et interruptions des chaînes d’approvisionnement mondiales, l’augmentation des coûts de la main-d’œuvre et des matériaux liés à la construction, et les augmentations de coûts dues à l’inflation ou à d’autres facteurs qui peuvent ne pas être totalement compensées par les augmentations des revenus dans notre activité ; les risques affectant les segments hôteliers de luxe, de villégiature et tout compris ; les niveaux de dépenses dans les segments affaires, loisirs et groupes, ainsi que la confiance des consommateurs ; les baisses de l’occupation et du tarif moyen journalier ; la visibilité limitée en ce qui concerne les réservations futures ; la perte de personnel clé ; les conditions politiques et géopolitiques nationales et internationales, les troubles politiques ou civils ou les changements dans les politiques commerciales ; les hostilités ou la crainte d’hostilités, y compris les futures attaques terroristes, qui affectent les voyages ; les accidents liés aux voyages ; les catastrophes naturelles ou d’origine humaine, les événements climatiques tels que les tremblements de terre, tsunamis, tornades, ouragans, sécheresses, inondations, incendies de forêt, marées noires, incidents nucléaires et épidémies mondiales de pandémies ou de maladies contagieuses, ou la crainte de telles épidémies ; notre capacité à atteindre avec succès certains niveaux de bénéfices d’exploitation dans les hôtels soumis à des tests de performance ou garanties en faveur de nos propriétaires tiers ; l’impact des rénovations et réaménagements d’hôtels ; les risques associés à nos plans d’allocation de capital, au programme de rachat d’actions et paiements de dividendes, y compris une réduction, une suppression ou une suspension des activités de rachat ou des paiements de dividendes ; la nature saisonnière et cyclique des secteurs de l’immobilier et de l’hôtellerie ; les modifications des modes de distribution, telles que celles passant par les intermédiaires de voyage en ligne ; les évolutions des goûts et préférences de nos clients ; les relations avec les collaborateurs et les syndicats ainsi que les changements dans les lois du travail ; la situation financière et nos relations avec des propriétaires tiers, franchisés et partenaires de coentreprises hôtelières ; l’incapacité potentielle des propriétaires tiers, des franchisés ou des partenaires de développement à accéder aux capitaux nécessaires pour financer les opérations en cours ou mettre en œuvre nos plans de croissance ; les risques liés aux acquisitions et cessions potentielles et notre capacité à intégrer avec succès les acquisitions réalisées dans les opérations existantes ou à réaliser les synergies attendues ; l’échec à conclure avec succès des transactions proposées (y compris le non-respect des conditions de clôture ou l’impossibilité d’obtenir les approbations requises) ; notre capacité à mener à bien la cession de certains de nos actifs immobiliers détenus dans les délais prévus et aux valeurs attendues ; notre capacité à maintenir un contrôle interne efficace sur les rapports financiers et les procédures de divulgation ; la diminution de la valeur de nos actifs immobiliers ; les résiliations imprévues de nos contrats de gestion et de services hôteliers ou de nos contrats de franchise ; les changements dans les lois fiscales fédérales, étatiques, locales ou étrangères ; les augmentations des taux d’intérêt, des salaires et d’autres coûts d’exploitation ; les fluctuations des taux de change ou les restructurations monétaires ; les risques associés à l’introduction de nouveaux concepts de marques, y compris l’absence d’acceptation des nouvelles marques ou des innovations ; la volatilité générale des marchés de capitaux et notre capacité à y accéder ; les changements dans l’environnement concurrentiel de notre secteur, la consolidation de l’industrie et les marchés où nous opérons ; notre capacité à développer avec succès le programme de fidélité World of Hyatt et le programme d’adhésion payante Unlimited Vacation Club ; les incidents cybernétiques et les défaillances des technologies de l’information ; les résultats des procédures judiciaires ou administratives ; les violations des réglementations ou des lois liées à nos activités de franchise et de licence ainsi qu’à nos opérations internationales ; et d’autres risques évoqués dans les dépôts de la société auprès de la Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) des États-Unis, y compris notre rapport annuel sur le formulaire 10-K et nos rapports trimestriels sur le formulaire 10-Q, disponibles auprès de la SEC. Ces facteurs ne représentent pas nécessairement l’ensemble des éléments importants susceptibles de faire varier de manière significative nos résultats, performances ou réalisations réels par rapport à ceux exprimés ou implicites dans nos déclarations prospectives. Nous vous recommandons de ne pas accorder une confiance excessive à ces déclarations prospectives, qui ne sont valables qu’à la date de ce communiqué de presse. Nous n’assumons aucune obligation de mettre à jour publiquement ces déclarations prospectives pour refléter les résultats réels, les nouvelles informations ou les événements futurs, les changements d’hypothèses ou d’autres facteurs affectant les déclarations prospectives, sauf dans la mesure où la loi applicable l’exige. Si nous mettons à jour une ou plusieurs déclarations prospectives, il ne faut pas en déduire que nous effectuerons des mises à jour supplémentaires pour ces déclarations ou d’autres déclarations prospectives.

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