Category: MIL-OSI

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Afreximbank Accorde une Ligne de Crédit Programme de Facilitation du Commerce d’Afreximbank (AFTRAF) de 100 Millions de Dollars Américains à la Banque NBS Plc Malawi

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) a signé un accord de facilité avec la Banque NBS Plc Malawi (NBS Bank) afin de lui octroyer une ligne de crédit de 100 millions de dollars US dans le cadre du Programme de Facilitation du Commerce (AFTRAF) d’Afreximbank. Cette ligne de crédit permettra à la banque de soutenir son portefeuille croissant de financements commerciaux et de continuer à répondre efficacement aux besoins de ses clients commerciaux. 

Signé en marge de la quatrième Foire Commerciale Intra-Africaine (IATF2025) par M. Haytham El Maayergi, Vice-Président Exécutif de la Banque Commerciale Mondiale, Afreximbank, et Mme Temwani Simwaka, PDG de la Banque NBS , l’accord de facilité est structuré de manière à aider la Banque NBS à augmenter ses volumes commerciaux et à soutenir l’importation de produits de première nécessité, tels que les engrais, les médicaments et le carburant, au Malawi. 

S’exprimant à propos de la signature, M. Haytham El Maayergi, Vice-Président Exécutif de la Banque Commerciale Mondiale, Afreximbank, a déclaré que cette facilité démontrait l’engagement d’Afreximbank à soutenir les entreprises et les institutions financières Africaines locales afin de répondre aux besoins nationaux. 

« Cette facilité de 100 millions de dollars Américains est l’une des plus importantes accordées par l’AFTRAF à une banque au Malawi », a déclaré M. El Maayergi, ajoutant : « Elle témoigne de l’engagement d’Afreximbank à soutenir les aspirations commerciales du Malawi en tant que l’un de ses États membres. Elle témoigne également des relations fructueuses et durables qui existent entre Afreximbank et le groupe NBS/NICO. » 

Il s’est dit convaincu que cette facilité permettrait à la Banque NBS  de répondre aux besoins commerciaux croissants de ses clients, qui visent à soutenir et à augmenter les volumes commerciaux de produits stratégiques au Malawi, notamment l’importation de carburant, d’engrais et de produits pharmaceutiques, et fournirait également à la banque une ligne de confirmation depuis l’Afrique. 

M. El Maayergi a ajouté que cette facilité était conforme au mandat d’Afreximbank, qui consiste à soutenir le commerce Intra-Africain et Extra-Africain. 

Le programme AFTRAF renforce la confiance des contreparties dans le règlement des transactions commerciales internationales et améliore les relations entre les banques correspondantes en soutenant les importations essentielles vers l’Afrique, en stimulant le commerce Intra-Africain et en facilitant l’achat d’équipements pour la production de biens d’exportation. Il fournit des services de confirmation commerciale, des garanties de confirmation commerciale et des engagements de remboursement irrévocables. 

Avec plus de 112 000 visiteurs venus de 132 pays, l’IATF2025, qui s’est déroulée du 4 au 10 Septembre, s’est terminée sur une note remarquablement positive avec 48,3 milliards de dollars Américains d’accords commerciaux et d’investissement signés au cours des sept jours de l’exposition continentale. Elle a accueilli 2 148 exposants. 

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

Contact médias :
media@intrafricatradefair.com
press@afreximbank.com 

À propos de la Foire Commerciale Intra-Africaine :
Organisée par la Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank), la Commission de l’Union Africaine (CUA) et le Secrétariat de la Zone de Libre-Échange Continentale Africaine (ZLECAf), la Foire Commerciale Intra-Africaine (IATF) a pour objectif de fournir une plateforme unique facilitant l’échange d’informations sur le commerce et l’investissement afin de soutenir l’augmentation du commerce et des investissements Intra-Africains, en particulier dans le contexte de la mise en œuvre de l’Accord de Libre-Échange Continental Africain (ZLECAf). L’IATF rassemble des acteurs continentaux et mondiaux afin de présenter et d’exposer leurs produits et services et d’explorer les opportunités commerciales et d’investissement sur le continent. Elle fournit également une plateforme pour partager des informations sur le commerce, l’investissement et les marchés avec les parties prenantes et permet aux participants de discuter et d’identifier des solutions aux défis auxquels sont confrontés le commerce et l’investissement Intra-Africains. Outre les participants Africains, la Foire est également ouverte aux entreprises et aux investisseurs de pays non Africains intéressés par les affaires en Afrique et désireux de soutenir la transformation du continent par l’industrialisation et le développement des exportations.  

Pour plus d’informations, veuillez consulter le site www.IntrAfricanTradeFair.com. 

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A KFC revela a sua receita secreta

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Num movimento que provocou ondas de choque na indústria da restauração rápida, a KFC África (https://global.KFC.com) anunciou hoje que vai fazer o impensável: revelar a sua receita secreta.

A receita tem sido objeto de lendas empresariais, sendo que apenas um punhado de pessoas conhece a fórmula completa.

Os concorrentes tentaram fazer engenharia reversa, os teóricos da conspiração desenvolveram ideias elaboradas sobre o assunto e as redes sociais contribuíram para alimentar as chamas.

O objetivo é sempre o mesmo: descobrir o que está na receita. Na quarta-feira 8 de outubro, a verdade será finalmente revelada.

O mundo merece a verdade

“Há anos que as pessoas nos perguntam qual é a nossa receita secreta”, afirmou Grant Macpherson, Diretor de Marketing e Digital Officer da KFC África.

“Adivinharam, suplicaram e fizeram o seu melhor para a copiar. E agora decidimos que o mundo pode finalmente partilhá-la. Pensamos que será melhor para todos se for conhecida.”

“A história decidirá se este é ou não um golpe de mestre, mas acreditamos que será bom para nós e, mais importante, bom para a África do Sul.”

Macpherson diz que a KFC só explicará as razões que a levaram a revelar a receita secreta no dia da grande revelação.

Ativo precioso

“É óbvio que vai haver muita especulação sobre o porquê de cedermos este bem precioso, e porquê agora”, afirmou.

“Os nossos clientes fiéis podem estar a perguntar-se se isto vai acabar com a mística que fez da KFC a maior marca de restaurantes de serviço rápido da África do Sul.”

“Pensamos que não, mas tudo será esclarecido no dia 8 de outubro. Até lá, todos os palpites e opiniões não passarão disso mesmo.”

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para KFC Africa.

Sobre a KFC África:
A KFC faz parte da história de África desde 1971, quando o primeiro restaurante abriu em Joanesburgo. Atualmente com mais de 1400 restaurantes em 22 países subsarianos, é a marca líder de restaurantes de serviço rápido do continente e a casa do frango frito Original Recipe® que milhões de pessoas adoram. 

Na KFC África, alimentamos mais do que a fome – alimentamos o potencial. Cada refeição servida faz parte de um objetivo maior: criar um lugar à mesa para todos e garantir que o potencial não é apenas visto – é alimentado. Esse compromisso ganha vida através de iniciativas que fazem uma diferença mensurável. A nossa Streetwise Academy, apoiada pelos serviços de acreditação das SETA (Sector Education and Training Authorities, Autoridades do Setor da Educação e Formação), concede aos membros da equipa competências para prosperar enquanto líder, nos RH e nas operações – alcançando uma taxa de promoção e retenção de 75% que prova o poder do investimento nas pessoas. O nosso programa Add Hope fornece mais de 30 milhões de refeições a crianças vulneráveis todos os anos, enquanto que o Mini Cricket, o maior programa desportivo de base da África do Sul, chega a mais de 120.000 jovens jogadores orientados por 13.000 treinadores. Para além da alimentação, iniciativas como as bolsas de estudo Ikusasa Lethu e os programas de capacitação de jovens em toda a África abrem caminhos para a educação, meios de subsistência e futuros mais brilhantes.

Com mais de 40.000 membros da equipa a impulsionar o nosso negócio, a KFC África orgulha-se de ser um empregador de eleição – cultivando carreiras, justiça e integridade enquanto serve milhões diariamente. Porque quando os indivíduos se elevam, as famílias fortalecem-se. As comunidades crescem. As nações transformam-se. É esse o impacto inegável que nos orgulhamos de servir.

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KFC s’apprête à dévoiler sa recette secrète

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Dans le cadre d’une annonce qui a émis des ondes de choc dans tout le secteur de la restauration rapide, KFC Africa (https://global.KFC.com) annonce aujourd’hui qu’il ferait l’impensable : révéler sa recette secrète.

La formule complète de la recette, qui est à l’origine de la légende de l’entreprise, n’est connue que d’une poignée de personnes.

Les concurrents ont essayé la rétro-ingénierie, les complotistes ont élaboré des théories complexes et les réseaux sociaux ont joué leur rôle en créant le buzz.

L’objectif a toujours été le même : trouver ce qu’il y a dans la recette. Le mercredi 8 octobre, la vérité sera enfin révélée.

Le monde mérite de savoir

« Depuis des années, les gens nous posent des questions sur notre recette secrète », déclare Grant Macpherson, Chief Marketing & Digital Officer, KFC Africa.

« Ils font des suppositions, ils demandent à savoir et ils font de leur mieux pour la copier. Et maintenant, nous avons décidé de partager la recette avec tout le monde. Nous pensons que ce sera mieux pour tous si la recette est dévoilée.

L’histoire décidera s’il s’agit ou non d’un coup de maître, mais nous pensons que les résultats seront positifs pour nous et, surtout, pour l’Afrique du Sud. »

Macpherson rappelle que KFC expliquera les raisons qui motivent l’entreprise à révéler la recette secrète le jour de sa présentation.

Un actif précieux

« Les spéculations vont aller bon train sur les raisons qui nous motivent à partager cet actif précieux, et pourquoi maintenant », ajoute-il.

« Nos clients fidèles se demandent peut-être si cela tuera le mythe qui a fait de KFC la plus grande marque de restauration rapide d’Afrique du Sud.

Nous ne le croyons pas, mais tout deviendra clair le 8 octobre. D’ici là, ce ne seront que des spéculations. »

Distribué par APO Group pour KFC Africa.

À propos de KFC Africa :
KFC fait partie de l’histoire de l’Afrique depuis 1971, année de l’ouverture du premier restaurant à Johannesburg. Aujourd’hui, avec plus de 1 400 restaurants répartis dans 22 pays subsahariens, KFC est la première marque de restaurants à service rapide du continent, notamment grâce à son poulet frit Original Recipe® que des millions de personnes adorent.

Chez KFC Africa, nous nourrissons les personnes, mais aussi leur potentiel. Chaque repas servi fait partie d’un objectif plus large : créer pour chacun une place à la table et veiller à ce que le potentiel ne soit pas seulement visible, mais aussi encouragé. Cet engagement prend vie grâce à des initiatives qui ont un impact tangible. Notre Streetwise Academy, soutenue par l’accréditation Services SETA, donne aux membres de l’équipe les compétences nécessaires pour s’épanouir dans les domaines du leadership, des RH et des opérations de première ligne, avec un taux de promotion et de rétention de 75 %, ce qui témoigne du bien-fondé d’investir dans les talents. Notre programme Add Hope fournit plus de 30 millions de repas aux enfants vulnérables chaque année, tandis que Mini Cricket, le plus grand programme sportif populaire d’Afrique du Sud, est suivi par plus de 120 000 jeunes joueurs encadrés par 13 000 entraîneurs. Au-delà de l’alimentation, des initiatives telles que les bourses d’études Ikusasa Lethu et les programmes d’autonomisation des jeunes à travers l’Afrique ouvrent la voie à l’éducation, aux moyens de subsistance et à un avenir meilleur.

Avec plus de 40 000 membres d’équipe, KFC Africa est fier d’être un employeur de choix, cultivant les carrières, l’équité et l’intégrité tout en servant des millions de personnes chaque jour. Parce que lorsque les individus s’épanouissent, les familles se renforcent. Les communautés grandissent. Les nations se transforment. C’est l’impact indéniable auquel nous sommes fiers de contribuer.

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African Energy Chamber (AEC) Launches State of African Energy 2026 Outlook at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025

Source: APO

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org/) officially launched its latest industry report – the State of African Energy 2026 Outlook – at the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference on Tuesday. Developed in partnership with S&P Global Commodity Insights, the report provides an in-depth analysis into the various facets of the African energy sector, detailing challenges and opportunities in hydrocarbons, renewable energy, power, finance and technology. The report represents a vital tool for investors, de-risking investments at a time when the continent is accelerating energy developments.

“We need key data to drive investments which is why we worked with S&P Global Commodity Insights on this report. One thing is clear: there is significant density of infrastructure in Europe but that is not evident in Africa. But we also see significant opportunities in Africa. This study shows you where the market is and where the opportunities are,” stated Verner Ayukegba, Senior Vice President, AEC.  

The State of African Energy 2026 Outlook helps investors and project developers navigate the continent’s diverse and evolving energy markets. The report covers a variety of strategic topics, from exploration and production trends to upcoming drilling campaigns to global capital expenditure, frontier basins and decarbonization. A focus on the downstream sector offers insights into refining, infrastructure and trade, while a section on African gas and LNG unpacks new LNG projects, potential roadblocks to gas monetization and domestic demand.

“The report covers everything from oil and gas to critical minerals. It is time to stop talking and move to investing. Key takeaways you will find in the report are statistics on oil and gas production, with oil demand projected to grow from 11.4 million barrels per day (bpd) to 13.6 million bpd,” shared Mark Eramo, CEO, S&P Global Commodity Insights.

Beyond oil and gas, the report shares insights into Africa’s emerging renewable energy market. Chapters cover anticipated power demand, opportunities in off-grid solutions, challenges to renewable energy adoption and financing projects. By outlining the continent’s energy transition, the report offers key insights into how the continent can advance a transition to clean energy while scaling-up baseload power and energy access.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 Opens with Exploration Push, $1B Seismic Investment and United States (U.S.) Pledge of Partnership

Source: APO – Report:

African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025 opened on Tuesday with a call to fast-track oil, gas and clean energy development across the continent, as industry leaders highlighted new exploration initiatives, billion-dollar seismic investments and deepening U.S.-Africa energy ties as the backbone of Africa’s industrial future.

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz pledged that Washington would stand behind Africa’s energy ambitions. “The U.S. should be a strong and committed partner in Africa’s energy future, supporting robust investment in exploration, production and infrastructure,” he said. Cruz also positioned the U.S. as Africa’s “alternative to communist China,” framing energy as the foundation of a new era of “investment-led commercial diplomacy.”

Josh Volz, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Europe, Eurasia, Africa and the Middle East in the U.S. Department of Energy, emphasized U.S. support for African-led energy development. “International governments should not stand in the way of how African nations determine their energy futures. We are eager to hear how best we can, from a U.S. perspective, partner with Africa,” he said. Volz noted that the U.S. private sector is already heavily engaged in Africa, with current investments totaling $65 billion, along with a $2.5 billion pledge recently implemented under the Trump administration aimed at supporting energy expansion across the continent.

NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, said exploration is firmly back on the continent, but warned that policy delays could derail progress. “The state of African energy is resilient. Liberia just signed a few new blocks with TotalEnergies, and we are hoping gas developments in Mozambique move forward. But it shouldn’t take five, 10 or 20 years to approve projects,” he said. “The energy industry can take care of the sub-surface issues, but it’s our job to deal with the above-ground.”

Ayuk stressed the need for fiscal clarity and stronger enabling environments. “The game is going cheap. The fiscals will make us better. Besides putting pressure on African leaders to move, we need to deal with financial apartheid. Gas is green in Europe where they can afford it, but not in Africa. We need to stop these double standards,” he said.

Seismic giant TGS reinforced this momentum, with CEO Kristian Johansen, confirming that the company has invested over $1 billion in African data over the past decade. “Our unparalleled multi-client library, representing about 70% of all seismic data in Africa, continues to unlock new opportunities – de-risking frontier basins, revitalizing mature plays and revealing potential where others saw only uncertainty,” Johansen said.

Mike Sangster, Senior Vice President for Africa at TotalEnergies, emphasized the scale of investment needed to meet Africa’s growing energy demand. “The IEA says the industry needs to invest $500 billion per year to meet growing demand – 90% of this investment is needed just to stand still, to offset natural declines in our fields. New oil and gas projects are not optional – they are essential. Otherwise, energy security is at risk,” he said.

He noted that TotalEnergies is dedicating significant resources to Africa, with half of its exploration and appraisal budget allocated to the continent. The company recently acquired licenses in the Republic of Congo, Namibia and Nigeria, and is anticipating the launch of new projects in Angola and Uganda. Sangster further highlighted various sustainability initiatives, including the elimination of routine flaring in Gabon, the deployment of 13,000 methane sensors across Africa by 2025, and the operation or construction of 1.1 GW of renewable capacity.

Turning to clean energy solutions, Ayuk pressed for urgency on LPG as a safe cooking fuel, citing a landmark U.S. proposal launched earlier this year. “Some 750,000 to one million Africans die every year from lack of clean cooking fuels – this is an issue we must address. LPG is going to be big. We are going to use it and we will not stop,” he said.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) partners with Carbon Markets Africa Summit: “Preparing governments to become carbon market ready”

Source: APO

“How is it possible that in 2025, when we are able to send people to the moon, when we are able to create driverless vehicles, we’ve not been able to solve the problem of cooking energy in Africa’s rural areas?” asks Maxwell Gomera, Resident Representative of UNDP South Africa and Director of the Africa Sustainable Finance Hub.

He continues: “This is something that is within our means. And as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Africa Sustainable Finance Hub, we are now working with governments across Africa on how to solve such problems. High-integrity carbon markets can offer Africa a powerful tool to mobilise finance required to advance climate action and ensure fair benefits while driving sustainable and inclusive development.”

Carbon markets unlocking billions

“Africa no longer waits for promises to be kept—we act,” Mr Gomera adds. “Carbon markets can unlock billions in finance, strengthen our institutions, and accelerate both Agenda 2063 and the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C goal. At UNDP’s Africa Sustainable Finance Hub, we believe in a unified continent ready to harness this opportunity, own its solutions, and lead the global transformation towards resilience and prosperity.”

The UNDP is the official host partner of the upcoming Carbon Markets Africa Summit CMAS), taking place in Johannesburg from 22 to 23 October, gathering the continent’s entire carbon markets value chain, from successful early carbon market movers, climate-finance-ready projects and regulatory bodies to global institutional development organisations and investors.

“We cannot continue talking about Africa’s potential. We must make that potential a reality,” says UNDP’s Maxwell Gomera. “The Carbon Markets Africa Summit matters, because we bring together like-minded people to strengthen the ecosystem around a problem that we all share and provide solutions. Our message is: Tomorrow is worth fighting for.”

The UNDP is making important contributions to the Carbon Markets Africa Summit programme:

CARBON 101

As part of the CARBON 101 pre-summit masterclass on 21 October, UNDP Carbon Market Programme Specialist Bernardin Uzayisaba will facilitate a session on “Why carbon markets matter – and why Africa’s timing is critical.” There is already a lot of interest in this masterclass by delegates who will gain a foundational understanding of global carbon markets—both voluntary and compliance—and their evolving mechanisms: what they are and how they work. In addition, he will explore the global architecture shaped by Article 6 of the Paris Agreement and Africa’s emerging role in a system that’s rapidly evolving.

Day 1: Keynote session

– Maxwell Gomera, Resident Representative of UNDP South Africa and Director of the Africa Sustainable Finance Hub will deliver a keynote address in the CMAS opening session on 22 October.

– Sandra Lindström, Head of International Climate Cooperation, Swedish Energy Agency, a UNDP partner, is another keynote speaker in this session, as she explains: “Sweden has been active in carbon markets for over two decades and we believe that Article 6 of the Paris Agreement has an important role to play in enabling increased global climate ambition. Our long-standing partnerships in Africa are being ramped up to include cooperation on emissions trading with strong sustainable development contributions”. 

Turning policy into action

As African countries transition from climate ambition to implementation, regulatory clarity is emerging as the cornerstone of carbon market development. UNDP Carbon Market Programme Specialist Bernardin will moderate the discussion on “Africa’s carbon market frameworks: Turning policy into action” in this session, which will explore how national frameworks are evolving post-COP29, what integration of Article 6 looks like on the ground, and how public-private collaboration can drive effective execution.

NBS & AFOLU discussion

In the sector-focused dialogue on nature-based solutions and AFOLU, Mr Uzayisaba will also join the expert panel discussion to explore carbon methodologies, investment models, policy frameworks, and the role of communities in delivering high-integrity, land-based carbon outcomes.

African companies entering carbon markets

On Day 2, Tomas Sales, Special Advisor for UNDP Africa Sustainable Finance Hub, will co-lead the workshop on “How African companies can enter the carbon market.”

This workshop is designed for African corporates and SMEs looking to understand the business case for engaging in carbon markets.

[Read the full interview with UNDP’s Maxwell Gomera here (https://apo-opa.co/4nWxPQL).]

Link to the CMAS 2025 Programme Brochure: https://apo-opa.co/4nPlvBO 

Event dates and location:
Dates:
21 October: Pre-summit day
22–23 October: Summit
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Event website: About — Carbon Markets Africa (http://apo-opa.co/48DqHEz)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

Other partners and sponsors for this inaugural event include the following:
Strategic institutional partners: AUDA NEPAD and UNEP.
Diamond sponsor: TASC
Gold sponsors: FSD Africa, SGS and Trees for the Future

Contact details for Carbon Markets Africa Summit: 
Project Lead: Emmanuelle Nicholls 
Cell: +27 83 447 8410  
Email: http://emmanuelle.nicholls@wearevuka.com

VUKA Group
Carbon Markets Africa Summit is organised by VUKA Group, which has more than 20 years’ experience in serving the business community across Africa. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the official host organisation.

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KFC to reveal its secret recipe

Source: APO

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the quick-service restaurant industry, KFC Africa (https://global.KFC.com) announced today that it will do the unthinkable: reveal its secret recipe.

The recipe has been the stuff of corporate legend, with only a handful of people knowing the complete formula.

Competitors have tried to reverse-engineer it, conspiracy theorists have developed elaborate ideas about it, and social media has played its part in stoking the flames.

The objective has always been the same: to work out what’s in the recipe. And on Wednesday 8 October, the truth will finally be revealed.

The world deserves the truth

“People have been asking us for years about our secret recipe,” says Grant Macpherson, Chief Marketing & Digital Officer, KFC Africa.

“They’ve guessed, they’ve pleaded and they’ve done their best to copy it. And now we’ve decided the world can finally share it. We think it will be better for everyone if it’s out in the open.

“History will decide whether or not this is a masterstroke, but we believe it will be good for us and most importantly good for South Africa.”

Macpherson says KFC will explain its reasons for revealing the secret recipe only on the day of the big reveal.

Precious asset

“There’s obviously going to be a lot of speculation about why we would give away this precious asset, and why now,” he says.

“Our loyal customers may be wondering whether this will kill the mystique that has made KFC South Africa’s biggest quick-service restaurant brand.

“We don’t think it will, but everything will become clear on 8 October. Until then, all the guesses and opinions will be just that.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of KFC Africa.

About KFC Africa:
KFC has been part of Africa’s story since 1971, when the first restaurant opened in Johannesburg. Today, with more than 1,400 restaurants across 22 sub-Saharan countries, it stands as the continent’s leading quick service restaurant brand and home of the Original Recipe® fried chicken that millions love. 

At KFC Africa, we feed more than hunger — we feed potential. Every meal served is part of a bigger purpose: creating a seat at the table for everyone and ensuring that potential isn’t just seen — it’s nurtured. That commitment comes to life through initiatives that make a measurable difference. Our Streetwise Academy, backed by Services SETA accreditation, equips team members with skills to thrive across frontline leadership, HR and operations — achieving a 75% promotion and retention rate that proves the power of investing in people. Our Add Hope programme delivers over 30 million meals to vulnerable children each year, while Mini Cricket, South Africa’s largest grassroots sports programme, reaches more than 120,000 young players guided by 13,000 coaches. Beyond food, initiatives such as the Ikusasa Lethu scholarships and youth empowerment programmes across Africa open pathways to education, livelihoods, and brighter futures.

With over 40,000 team members powering our business, KFC Africa is proud to be an employer of choice — cultivating careers, fairness, and integrity while serving millions daily. Because when individuals rise, families strengthen. Communities grow. Nations transform. That’s the undeniable impact we are proud to serve.

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Space Exploration & Research Agency (SERA) Opens Space Seat to Nigerians in Global Democratic Astronaut Selection

Source: APO

Nigeria will select its next space representative through an expanded democratic astronaut selection process, launched today by the Space Exploration & Research Agency (SERA) (www.SERA.Space). The initiative promotes community-selected space representation for Nigeria, India, Indonesia, Brazil, and Thailand, with citizens voting for their representatives through a blockchain-powered platform.

The program transforms space access from an exclusive institutional selection to one that involves public participation. Unlike traditional astronaut programs requiring military backgrounds or advanced degrees, SERA’s Mission Control platform on Telegram (https://www.SERA.Space/) enables anyone from partner nations to apply and compete for community support.

“After the success of SERA’s inaugural space flight in 2022, we’re scaling democratic space access to five nations simultaneously, plus a global seat,” said Joshua Skurla, SERA co-founder. “Nigeria’s seat means someone from any background can represent their nation in space based on community choice.”

The approach builds on SERA’s demonstrated success in sending Victor Hespanha, selected from the SERA community, to become South America’s first civilian astronaut on Blue Origin’s New Shepard. That mission validated both the selection process and global appetite for community participation in space exploration. For Nigeria, this represents a historic opportunity to build on the country’s recent achievements in space.

While Nigeria has pursued space exploration through its National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) and witnessed Chief Owolabi Salis’s self-funded Blue Origin flight, as well as Nigerian scientist Dr. Temidayo Oniosun’s symbolic Egusi mission to space, SERA offers the first community-selected civilian astronaut pathway.

“This partnership aligns with our vision of expanding Nigeria’s space presence beyond satellites to human spaceflight,” said Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju, Director General of NASRDA. “SERA’s democratic approach ensures Nigerian representation reflects our diverse population’s aspirations.”

Dr. Anne Agi, President of Learnspace Foundation, which facilitated the partnership between SERA and NASRDA, emphasized the broader mission. “We’re building bridges between communities, institutions, and industry to ensure Nigeria’s journey to human spaceflight is not only historic but inclusive and connected to the global movement for shared exploration.”

The selection process operates through SERA Mission Control, a Telegram mini-app built on TON Blockchain for transparent voting. Candidates complete challenges to earn “SpaceDust” points and compete for their nation’s guaranteed seat. The blockchain infrastructure prevents manipulation while enabling global participation through the accessible Telegram platform.

“We’re opening space to people who never imagined it possible,” said Sam Hutchison, SERA co-founder. “A teacher in Abuja or a content creator in Lagos can now compete for Nigeria’s space seat through community engagement, not just academic credentials.”

Six seats are reserved for the upcoming Blue Origin mission—five allocated to partner nations, with a sixth open to citizens from any country. The program includes a Science Platform where communities can submit and vote on experiments, creating decentralized research opportunities.

SERA addresses the representation gap in space exploration. While around 800 people have traveled to space since 1961, none from Nigeria, India, Indonesia, Thailand, or most developing nations have flown as community-selected civilian astronauts despite representing billions of global citizens.

“SERA Mission Control represents space exploration reimagined for social media users,” said Max Crown, CEO of TON Foundation. “By launching on TON within Telegram, SERA transforms space travel from a distant concept into an interactive, community-driven experience.”

The platform represents one of the most ambitious consumer applications built on TON Blockchain, showcasing practical Web3 applications beyond financial uses. Transparent voting addresses fairness concerns while gamified engagement drives sustained participation.

Applications open immediately through the SERA Mission Control Telegram app, with voting and selection timelines to be announced. Selected astronauts will undergo standard Blue Origin safety training before their spaceflight missions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Space Exploration & Research Agency (SERA).

Media Enquiries:
Edward Israel-Ayide
edward@carpediemng.com 

About SERA:
The Space Exploration & Research Agency was founded to build a global community dedicated to space exploration and research. Its mission is to create a space agency for everyone. Learn more at www.SERA.Space and follow @ seraspaceage across social platforms.

About TON Foundation:
The TON Foundation is a Swiss non-profit organization that accelerates the growth of the TON Blockchain ecosystem by providing funding and support to developers, creators, and businesses through grants, technical resources, and strategic partnerships. While the Foundation advocates for TON’s mission, it does not control the decentralized, open-source, community-driven network. Learn more at https://TON.Foundation.

About Blue Origin:
We are building a road to space for the benefit of Earth, humanity’s blue origin. Our team is focused on radically reducing the cost of access to space and harnessing its vast resources while mobilizing future generations to realize this mission. Blue Origin builds reusable rocket engines, launch vehicles, in-space systems, and lunar landers. Discover more at www.BlueOrigin.com.

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President mourns passing of Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa is saddened by the passing of Ambassador Emmanuel Nkosinathi “Nathi” Mthethwa, South Africa’s Head of Mission in Paris, who has died in tragic circumstances in the French capital at the age of 58.

President Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to Ambassador Mthethwa’s wife, Ms Philisiwe Buthelezi, and the Ambassador’s extended family.

The President extends his sympathies to the Ministry and Department of International Relations and Cooperation, and in particular officials in our Embassy in Paris.

The President’s thoughts are also with the extensive network of partners and stakeholders, including the French Presidency and Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, with whom Ambassador Mthethwa had established strong relationships since his diplomatic appointment in December 2023.

Ambassador Mthethwa served in Cabinet for 15 years in the portfolios of Sport, Arts and Culture; and Police. 

President Ramaphosa said: “The untimely passing of Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa is a moment of deep grief in which Government and citizens stand beside the Mthethwa family.

“Ambassador Mthethwa has served our nation in diverse capacities during a lifetime that has ended prematurely and traumatically.

“In his last tenure of service he has facilitated the deepening of relations between South and the Republic of France, which has produced benefits for individuals and businesses in both countries and advanced our cooperation in the global arena.

“May his soul rest in peace.”

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Tanzania’s ruling party has crushed the opposition – the elections are a mere formality

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Nicodemus Minde, Researcher, United States International University

Tanzania has conducted regular polls since the first multiparty elections in 1995. But they have often failed to meet democratic standards. The opposition has been persistently excluded and restricted, and media freedoms and civil rights have been suppressed. This pattern has come to be identified as electoral authoritarianism.

Tanzania’s ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), will seek to extend its dominance on 29 October 2025. It has been in power since independence in 1961, making it one of Africa’s longest-serving ruling parties.

I have studied Tanzania’s political party dynamics for a decade and in my view CCM’s candidate, Samia Suluhu Hassan, is destined for a landslide victory after the disqualification of two major opposition parties. Samia became president following the death in office of John Magufuli in 2021.

Chama Cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (Chadema) was disqualified for refusing to sign the election code of conduct. The party’s chair, Tundu Lissu, faces treason charges for calling for electoral reforms. The presidential candidate of the second-largest opposition party, ACT Wazalendo, has also been disqualified following a petition filed by the country’s registrar of political parties.

This makes the election significantly different to the last poll, held in 2020. That year, opposition parties participated, despite electoral flaws. This time, the ruling party goes to the polls virtually unchallenged. It will be looking for a seventh consecutive election victory.

The campaign is now dominated by CCM at all levels. There are indications that voter turnout will be low, with little public enthusiasm, especially knowing that a CCM victory is certain. Since 2010 the voter turnout has been shrinking. The elections in 2010 and 2020 experienced notably low voter turnout, with rates of 42.7% and 50.7%, respectively.

Tanzania continues to experience a decline in democracy, accompanied by heightened political repression and restrictions on political rights and civil liberties. The country’s status in the Freedom House democracy index dropped from the Partly Free category in 2020 to the Not Free category going into 2025.

Polling

Tanzanian general elections include three main categories: presidential, parliamentary, and councillor seats. They take place across the mainland and Zanzibar, Tanzania’s semi-autonomous state.

The 2025 elections feature 272 constituencies, 222 of which are mainland and 50 of which are in Zanzibar. Eight new constituencies were created in the mainland earlier this year.

The Independent Electoral Commission announced that a total of 37.7 million people had registered as voters in the 2025 elections, compared to 29.8 million at the last election: a 26.55% increase. According to the commission this reflects a rise in population but critics allege a scheme to manipulate the vote during the elections.

The electoral commission has cleared 16 presidential candidates. Samia, a native of Zanzibar, is running for her first full term. Her running mate, Emmanuel Nchimbi, has deep roots within CCM.

Chadema has called for electoral reforms, a stance which has brought charges of treason and incitement against Lissu.

ACT-Wazalendo’s candidate Luhaga Mpina was barred from running after the attorney general said his party had not followed nomination procedures.

With Chadema and ACT-Wazalendo out of the presidential race in mainland Tanzania, Chama Cha Ukombozi wa Umma (Chaumma), a fringe party that has benefited from the defections of some Chadema members, has emerged as the only challenger.

Its presidential candidate and running mate are Salum Mwalimu and Devotha Minja, who defected from Chadema earlier this year.

Chaumma’s apparent campaign resources have led some to conclude that it is surreptitiously backed by the ruling party. Chaumma and the 15 other fringe parties run the risk of legitimising an already flawed electoral process.

In Zanzibar, incumbent Hussein Mwinyi of CCM is seeking another term. He faces competition from Othman Masoud of ACT-Wazalendo. This will be the first general election in Zanzibar without opposition icon Seif Shariff Hamad, who died in 2021. He was a perennial presidential candidate in Zanzibar, always claiming that he had won but never becoming president.

In 2010 a government of national unity was formed in which he became the first vice president in a gesture aimed at reconciliation.

Campaign issues

The CCM is promising to deliver a strengthened economy, infrastructure development and improved healthcare. It has also pledged a new constitution. This last promise is part of the rhetoric previously peddled during political campaigns.

When Samia took office in 2021, she initiated reforms that promised improvements in governance. These are long forgotten.

Chadema’s “No Reforms, No Elections” position continues to shape public discourse. The call has focused minds on the governance and human rights issues facing Tanzania. These include attacks on media freedom, the targeting of government critics, and gross violations of human rights and abductions.

It has had an effect too on international opinion of Tanzania. Several international organisations including the African Commission on Human Rights and the European Parliament have voiced their concern about the deteriorating human rights situation in Tanzania.

ACT-Wazalendo has resolved to pursue reforms by participating in the election, with the rallying call of Linda Kura (protect the vote).

What’s different (and what’s not) this time

There is a new electoral framework for the 2025 election.

Three new electoral laws were passed. These are the National Electoral Commission Act (2023), the Presidential, Parliamentary, and Local Government Elections Bill (2023), and the Political Parties Affairs Laws (Amendment) Bill (2023). These changes led to the establishment of a new electoral body, the Independent National Electoral Commission, with the promise of reforming the electoral system.

A multi-stakeholder engagement recommended changes to enhance the electoral body’s independence. On this basis, a government task force recommended the creation of an “independent” committee, chaired by the chief justice, to vet applications of electoral commissioners.

Despite these changes, the executive branch still maintains significant influence over the electoral structure and decision making. The president still has the powers to appoint the chair, vice chair and commissioners of the electoral body.

With the opposition pushed aside and a controlled electoral process under way, CCM’s victory is all but certain. The key question now is the future of Tanzania’s democracy.

– Tanzania’s ruling party has crushed the opposition – the elections are a mere formality
– https://theconversation.com/tanzanias-ruling-party-has-crushed-the-opposition-the-elections-are-a-mere-formality-265771