Verdant IMAP Advises on USD 23.4 Million (ZAR 406 Million) Equity Raise to Reunify Ctrack’s Global Telematics Business

Source: APO

Verdant IMAP (www.Verdant-Cap.com) is pleased to announce that it acted as sole financial advisor and arranger to Ctrack Holding on the successful closing of a USD 23.4 million (ZAR 406 million) equity raise for Ctrack Holdings. The investment, led by Sanari Capital and 27four Investment Managers, both recognised leaders in South Africa’s investment space with strong B-BBEE credentials, will support Ctrack’s continued international expansion following the acquisition of Inseego’s global telematics business.

The funding was secured through Sanari’s 3S Growth Fund, which contributed USD 14.4 million (ZAR 250 million), and 27four Investment Managers, which invested USD 9 million (R156 million).

This transaction represents the reunification of Ctrack’s global business. In 2021, Convergence Partners acquired the Africa and Middle East operations of Ctrack from Inseego. In 2024, Ctrack completed the acquisition of Inseego’s remaining international telematics operations across Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. With this new equity injection, the company is consolidating its platform, technology, and customer base under a single global structure.

Ctrack’s Crystal platform delivers predictive telematics insights to clients in industries such as logistics, construction, government, and insurance, and is now positioned to scale its services seamlessly across Africa, the UK, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.

Hein Jordt, Chief Executive Officer of Ctrack, commented:

“This reunification is a defining milestone in Ctrack’s history. With the backing of Sanari Capital and 27four Investment Managers, and the continued support of Convergence Partners, we are once again bringing together the full scope of Ctrack’s global operations. This positions us to deliver a seamless international offering, underpinned by innovation, scale, and an unwavering commitment to our customers across Africa and developed international markets.”

Brandon Doyle, Chief Executive Officer of Convergence Partners, added:

“Verdant IMAP helped bring trusted partners Sanari and 27four on board, strengthening the shareholder base for Ctrack’s next phase of global growth. We are pleased to partner with them as Ctrack continues to scale, innovate, and deepen its impact for customers worldwide.”

The participation of Sanari Capital and 27four Investment Managers underscores investor conviction in Ctrack’s growth trajectory and highlights the role of inclusive capital in building globally competitive technology businesses.

This transaction demonstrates Verdant IMAP’s ability to deliver complex, cross-border growth capital solutions in the technology and infrastructure sectors. As the exclusive IMAP partner in the region, Verdant IMAP connects African businesses to international investors and strategic partners through IMAP’s global M&A advisory network spanning over 50 countries.  The transaction further reinforces Verdant IMAP’s market position in key verticals of strength, including technology and mobility.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Verdant Capital.

Media Enquiries:
Orient Mahonisi
T: +27 10 140 3700
E: orient.mahonisi@verdant-cap.com

About Ctrack:
Ctrack is a global leader in telematics, fleet management, and AI-driven predictive analytics. With a reunified platform spanning Africa, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, Ctrack delivers advanced solutions that help customers improve safety, efficiency, and real-time decision-making. Its Crystal platform supports clients across logistics, construction, government, and insurance sectors.

About Verdant IMAP:
Verdant IMAP is a leading investment bank operating on a pan-African focus, specialising in M&A and in private capital markets.  Verdant IMAP is the IMAP partner firm for its region.  IMAP with partner firms present in 51 countries, with more than 450 M&A professionals, is one of the world’s leading M&A partnerships. www.Verdant-Cap.com

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Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets Lebanese Army Commander

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha| October 08, 2025

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met on Wednesday with Army Commander of the sisterly Republic of Lebanon Brigadier General Rodolphe Haykal, who is visiting the country.

Discussions during the meeting reviewed aspects of bilateral cooperation and means of enhancing and advancing them, in addition to the latest developments in Lebanon and a number of issues of mutual interest.

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed the State of Qatar’s support for Lebanon’s army and state institutions, as well as its continued solidarity with the brotherly Lebanese people.

Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) remporte le prix de la stratégie de monétisation du gaz de l’année lors de African Energy Week (AEW) 2025

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le projet de développement gazier conventionnel Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) a remporté le prix « Stratégie de monétisation du gaz de l’année » lors de la conférence African Energy Week (AEW) : Invest in African Energy 2025, qui s’est tenue cette année, en reconnaissance de son rôle pionnier dans la transformation du bassin MSGBC en une région exportatrice de gaz d’importance mondiale. Cette distinction célèbre la réussite du projet, qui a permis le lancement de la première production de gaz et des opérations commerciales en 2025, marquant le début des exportations de GNL depuis la Mauritanie et le Sénégal et établissant un modèle évolutif pour le développement énergétique transfrontalier à travers l’Afrique.

Situé à la frontière maritime entre la Mauritanie et le Sénégal, le projet GTA est l’un des projets de développement gazier offshore les plus profonds d’Afrique, avec des réserves estimées à plus de 15 000 milliards de pieds cubes. Exploité par le géant énergétique bp en partenariat avec la société d’exploration et de production Kosmos Energy, la société publique mauritanienne SMH et la société sénégalaise Petrosen, le projet a officiellement commencé à produire du gaz en janvier 2025 et a atteint sa date de mise en service commerciale en juin 2025. Cette étape importante a marqué le début des exportations de GNL à partir du navire FLNG Gimi, développé et exploité par Golar LNG dans le cadre d’un contrat de 20 ans.

Avec 11 cargaisons exportées à ce jour et une autre cargaison de condensats attendue prochainement, la phase 1 du projet est conçue pour produire 2,3 millions de tonnes de GNL par an, les phases futures devant permettre d’augmenter considérablement la capacité. Le développement intègre un navire FPSO pour le traitement initial du gaz, qui transfère le gaz purifié par pipeline vers le FLNG Gimi, où il est refroidi, liquéfié et stocké pour l’exportation. Ensemble, ces systèmes créent un modèle d’exportation de GNL modulaire et reproductible, adaptable aux futures découvertes de gaz dans la région MSGBC.

Le succès du projet est le résultat d’une ingénierie coordonnée et d’une conception précoce par plusieurs partenaires. Le gaz produit dans le cadre du projet GTA alimentera à la fois les marchés nationaux et la demande mondiale de GNL, soutenant ainsi la croissance économique, le développement industriel et la sécurité énergétique en Mauritanie et au Sénégal. Le projet a déjà établi une nouvelle référence en matière de coopération régionale et de potentiel local, créant des milliers d’emplois et positionnant les deux pays comme des acteurs clés sur le marché mondial émergent du gaz.

« Le projet GTA démontre comment la collaboration régionale, l’investissement privé et l’excellence technique peuvent transformer de vastes réserves de gaz en une prospérité partagée pour les générations à venir », déclare NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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Government dismisses claims of funding activists’ return from Israel

Source: Government of South Africa

Government dismisses claims of funding activists’ return from Israel

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has denied claims that government funded the repatriation of local Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) activists who were detained in Israel. 

The department clarified that the activists’ return was made possible through financial support from their families and solidarity groups.

“The South African Government’s role has been one of diplomatic facilitation and engagement with all relevant parties,” the department explained. 

The delegation was expected to arrive at OR Tambo International Airport on Wednesday morning after they safely landed in Jordan, where they were welcomed by South Africa’s Ambassador to Jordan, Tselane Mokuena, yesterday.

South Africans who were on board the flotilla include Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandla Mandela, Zukiswa Wanner, Reaaz Moolla, Zaheera Soomar, Fatima Hendricks and Carrie Shelver.

Minister Ronald Lamola has since reiterated government’s profound gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to this successful outcome through their cooperation and support.

The GSF set sail from Barcelona, Spain, in early September and was intercepted by the Israeli navy in international waters as it approached Gaza. 

Reports indicate that Israeli police arrested over 470 people who were on board the flotilla boats.

The GSF is an international initiative led by civil society, launched in June of this year.

The movement aims to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, raise awareness about the urgent needs of the Palestinian people, and emphasise the necessity of ending the conflict in Gaza.

On Monday, the Israeli Foreign Ministry announced on X, formerly known as Twitter, that 171 activists from the flotilla, including the Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, were deported from Israel to Greece and Slovakia.

The deportees are citizens of Greece, Italy, France, Ireland, Sweden, Poland, Germany, Bulgaria, Lithuania, Austria, Luxembourg, Finland, Denmark, Slovakia, Switzerland, Norway, the United Kingdom, Serbia, and the United States. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile

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TNPA awards 25-year liquid bulk terminal concession at Port of Cape Town

Source: Government of South Africa

TNPA awards 25-year liquid bulk terminal concession at Port of Cape Town

The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has signed a Terminal Operator Agreement (TOA) with FFS Tank Terminals to operate and maintain a Liquid Bulk Terminal at the Port of Cape Town for a 25-year concession period.

With an investment of R195.7million over the first three years, this new concession will lead to the refurbishment of terminal infrastructure and upgrades aimed at improving operational efficiency and ensuring the security of supply to local industries. 

Once operational, the terminal will double its current diesel storage capacity by 100%, increasing it to 29,200m³ enhancing diesel volume throughput at the port, while also boosting bitumen storage facility from 4,700m³ to 6,900m³ – a total storage capacity increase of 47%.

The deal follows the successful conclusion of the Section 56 process of the National Ports Acts of 2005, during which TNPA appointed FFS Tank Terminals as the preferred bidder in December 2024. 

This demonstrates the effectiveness of the National Ports Act of 2005 in promoting the country’s national, strategic, and economic interests. FFS Tank Terminals’ appointment forms part of TNPA’s consolidation of terminal operations within the liquid bulk precinct, where two sites have now been merged into single operational area for improved commercial viability.

This now brings the total number of licensed terminal operators at the Port of Cape Town to 10, eight of which are privately owned, demonstrating strong private sector participation in port activities.

 Speaking at the signing ceremony in Cape Town, Acting TNPA Chief Executive, Phyllis Difeto said the partnership with FFS Tank Terminals is crucial for enhancing the port’s competitiveness and operational efficiency. 

“It reinforces the Transnet Reinvent for Growth Strategy, which transitions the business from stabilisation to sustained growth for future readiness. This agreement solidifies TNPA’s commitment to ensuring continued liquid bulk operations for the region, coupled with growing the port’s capacity and cargo volume throughput,” Difeto said.

The agreement with FFS Tank terminals, an experienced terminal operator in the liquid bulk sector with over 20 years of experience, will play a vital role in facilitating the import of liquid bulk products to ensure security of supply to local industries, contributing to the region’s economic stability.

“We are pleased to reach this important milestone in our diversification strategy, which extends the FFS Group’s technical and terminal experience to a relatively new entrant in the independent liquid bulk storage sector in South Africa, FFS Tank Terminals. 

“We are grateful for the constructive and professional approach from TNPA, who have walked through the talk in implementing and facilitating growth and creating employment opportunities in our economy. 

“We look forward to continuing our strong relationships with the Port, our customers and stakeholders at large,” said Andrew Canning, FFS Tank Terminals Chief Executive Officer. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin

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Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) Wins Gas Monetization Strategy of the Year Award at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025

Source: APO

The Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) conventional gas development has been awarded the Gas Monetization Strategy of the Year award at this year’s African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025 conference, recognizing its pioneering role in transforming the MSGBC Basin into a globally significant gas-exporting region. The accolade celebrates the project’s successful achievement of first gas and commercial operations in 2025, marking the start of LNG exports from Mauritania and Senegal and setting a scalable model for cross-border energy development across Africa.

Located on the maritime border of Mauritania and Senegal, the GTA project is one of Africa’s deepest offshore gas developments, with reserves estimated at over 15 trillion cubic feet. Operated by energy major bp in partnership with exploration and production company Kosmos Energy, Mauritania’s state-owned SMH and Senegal’s Petrosen, the project officially began flowing gas in January 2025, reaching its commercial operations date in June 2025. The milestone signaled the start of LNG exports from the Gimi FLNG vessel, developed and operated by Golar LNG under a 20-year contract.

With 11 cargoes exported so far and another condensate cargo expected shortly, Phase 1 of the project is designed to produce 2.3 million tons of LNG per year, with future phases expected to significantly expand capacity. The development integrates a FPSO vessel for initial gas processing, which transfers purified gas via pipeline to the Gimi FLNG, where it is cooled, liquefied and stored for export. Together, these systems create a modular and replicable LNG export model adaptable to future gas discoveries across the MSGBC region.

The project’s success is the result of a coordinated engineering and early-stage design by multiple partners. Gas produced from the GTA project will supply both domestic markets and global LNG demand, underpinning economic growth, industrial development and energy security in both Mauritania and Senegal. The project has already established a new benchmark for regional cooperation and local content, creating thousands of jobs and positioning the two countries as key players in the emerging global gas market.

“The GTA project demonstrates how regional collaboration, private investment and technical excellence can turn vast gas reserves into shared prosperity for generations to come,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Deputy President Mashatile arrives in Juba, South Sudan on a Working Visit

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Paul Mashatile, in his capacity as Special Envoy to South Sudan, has today, Wednesday, 08 October 2025, arrived in Juba, South Sudan to hold consultations with various stakeholders on the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan.

During his two day Working Visit, Deputy President Mashatile is expected to hold primary discussions with His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit and key signatories to the Revitalised Agreement, as well as other stakeholders, to find lasting peace, development and stability for the people of South Sudan.

The Republic of South Sudan is implementing a peace process under auspices of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan, signed in September 2018.  

“We have returned to this great city of Juba, in South Sudan, to once again, consult with the relevant Parties, who are Signatories to the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan, to track progress achieved in implementation of the provisions and commitments expressed in the Agreement. The drafting of a new constitution, transitional security arrangements and preparations for elections scheduled for December 2026, are amongst the important elements of our focus,” said Deputy President Mashatile.

Deputy President Mashatile and delegation were received by the South Sudan Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Monday Semaya Kumba; Director General Bilateral, Amb. Phillip Jade; South Sudan Ambassardor to South Africa, Amb. Simon Doku; the Director for Africa, Ambassador Kau Nar Maper; as well as Amb Mahlodi Muofhe of the South African High Commission in South Sudan.   

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Ramaphosa arrives in Ireland for Official Visit

Source: President of South Africa –

His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa has this morning, 08 October 2025, arrived in Dublin, Ireland for an Official Visit aimed at advancing trade relations between South Africa and Ireland.

President Ramaphosa will today hold official talks with President Michael D. Higgins and Prime Minister Micheál Martin.

The discussions will focus on strengthening cooperation in science and innovation, higher education and skills development, as well as trade and investment. The visit seeks to elevate bilateral cooperation to a strategic partnership, creating new opportunities for enhanced collaboration and mutual economic growth.

This visit also reaffirms the strong historical bond between South Africa and Ireland founded on shared values and Ireland’s principled support for South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle.

In addition to bilateral matters, the leaders will discuss global and regional geopolitics and explore avenues for deeper bilateral and multilateral cooperation.

Bilateral trade between South Africa and Ireland grew by 12% to $638 million in 2024 from $567 million in 2023. South Africa increased its exports to Ireland by 40.4%, from $119 million in 2023 to $168 million in 2024. South Africa’s imports from Ireland also grew by 5%, from $448 million in 2023 to $470 million in 2024.

During his visit, President Ramaphosa will also engage with leading Irish companies to promote investment and collaboration.

President Ramaphosa is supported by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Mr Ronald Lamola and Minister of Higher Education and Training Mr Buti Manamela.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Call for bids to manage RSA retail savings bonds programme

Source: Government of South Africa

Call for bids to manage RSA retail savings bonds programme

The National Treasury has issued a tender inviting qualified and experienced service providers to submit proposals to distribute, administer, and manage the RSA Retail Savings Bonds Programme.

This initiative forms part of the National Treasury’s broader digital transformation agenda to enhance public access to RSA Retail Bonds, and enable South Africans to invest confidently, securing market related returns in a safe and transparent manner. 

National Treasury has encouraged interested persons who are interested to attend in a non-compulsory briefing session that will be conducted using Microsoft Teams to send an email to NTAdministrativeTenders@treasury.gov.za.

The Terms of Reference (Tender NT006-2025) seek multiple service providers to take over and modernise the RSA Retail Bonds programme.

The scope of work includes:

  • Full distribution (including digital channels) and administration of retail bonds.
  • Customer onboarding, engagement, and servicing.
  • Transaction processing and compliance.
  • Data analytics and performance reporting.

Key requirements for prospective bidders include:

  • Registration and compliance on the Central Supplier Database (CSD).
  • Submission of information in the prescribed templates.
  • Valid Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) accreditation.
  • Submission of a signed CV using the prescribed template.

Non-compulsory briefing session details:

For further details and to download the official Terms of Reference (TOR), visit the e-Tender Portal. 

Deadline for submissions: 28 October 2025 at 11:00 AM (SAST)

No late submissions will be accepted. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle

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Renew vehicle licence discs before holiday rush

Source: Government of South Africa

Renew vehicle licence discs before holiday rush

With the festive season fast approaching, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has called on motorists to renew their motor vehicle licence discs before finalising their travel arrangements.

“A total of 1 002 771 vehicle licences discs are set to expire at the end of October. A further 1 060 382 will expire in November, while 1 112 393 will expire in December,” the RTMC said on Tuesday.

The RTMC said it will be sending out SMS’s and email reminders to all motorists who are registered on the online renewal platform, reminding them to comply.

To register on this easy to use, convenient and affordable platform, motorists must log on online.natis.gov.za and follow the simple steps to upload their details.

According to RTMC, the platform has proven to be most popular with vehicle owners. 

“About five million vehicle licences have been renewed on this platform since its launch in 2022. An average of 7 908 daily renewals were processed on this platform in the past seven days.

“Clients from major banking institutions such as Capitec, First National Bank and Nedbank have access to the platform through their banking apps,” RTMC said.

The platform now offers motorists a safe service to pay their Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Enforcement Orders. 

This value-added service is intended to improve convenience and to enable users to save time by using a one-stop service for their vehicle licence compliance needs.

A relatively new offering on the platform is the online vehicle registration and change of owners. 

This offering is directed at motor vehicle dealers who deal with bulk transactions and require a fast, secure platform register vehicles.

More than 10 large motor vehicle dealerships have now registered and are conducting transactions on the platform daily.

A total of 120 230 change of ownership transactions were conducted on the platform from April to October 2025 with 78 239 registrations taking place in the same period. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle

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