Category: MIL-OSI

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Lamola calls for unified global action to address issues of peace and inequality

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, has emphasised the enduring role of the United Nations (UN) in global governance and called for a unified global approach to address the interconnected issues of peace, inequality, and sustainable development.

“Eighty years since its establishment, the United Nations remains most central in the collective global efforts towards addressing global challenges and threats to peace and security,” Lamola said. 

The Minister highlighted the organisation’s core focus on combating poverty, promoting human rights, and maintaining global peace.

He was speaking at the UN Headquarters in New York on Thursday, where South Africa welcomed Foreign Ministers from Group of 20 (G20) member countries and guest nations to the second G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. 

This meeting marked an important occasion as it coincided with the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UN. 

The gathering underscored the reaffirmation of the international community’s commitment to collaborative efforts in achieving sustainable development and maintaining global peace, and the importance of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). 

“For South Africa, the United Nations General Assembly is and will always remain the chief deliberative, policymaking and representative organ of the United Nations.” 

He also highlighted South Africa’s commitment to multilateralism and its recognition of the G20’s complementary role in achieving these objectives.

The Minister said the theme of the meeting, “The United Nations at 80: Reaffirming peace as a path to sustainable development” resonated deeply within the current geopolitical climate, marked by escalating tensions and challenges such as poverty and environmental degradation. 

“Peace and development have always been interdependent. Without peace, there can be no sustainable development; similarly, investments in economic development and inclusive growth can contribute to a more peaceful environment.”

He stressed the necessity of enhanced international collaboration in response to the shifting global dynamics.

“We must work together to ensure our aspirations of a peaceful and prosperous society,” he urged the Ministers. 

Lamola highlighted critical areas that require attention from both the G20 and the UN.  

“We need more robust multilateralism and a renewed commitment to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter,” he said, also adding that there has been a decline of trust in global institutions. 

Lamola outlined several key priorities for collective action, including reforming the global financial system to support sustainable development, addressing challenges within the multilateral trading system, fostering inclusivity, and adhering to international law for a fairer global order.

Lamola stressed the need for action and urged the G20 and the UN to seize every opportunity to raise ambitious targets. – SAnews.gov.za

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La Chambre africaine de l’énergie (AEC) lancera ses perspectives énergétiques pour l’Afrique en 2026 lors de African Energy Week (AEW 2025)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


La Chambre africaine de l’énergie (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org/), porte-parole du secteur énergétique africain, lancera ses dernières perspectives, offrant un aperçu stratégique des tendances, des opportunités et des défis du secteur énergétique africain, lors de la African Energy Week : Invest in African Energy, le 30 septembre. Rédigé en collaboration avec la société de données et d’analyse S&P Global Commodity Insights, le rapport « State of African Energy 2026 Outlook » offre une vue d’ensemble des différents segments de la chaîne de valeur énergétique africaine, des tendances du marché en amont à celles en aval, en passant par le gaz et le GNL, l’électricité, les énergies renouvelables et la transition énergétique. À l’heure où la demande énergétique africaine devrait quadrupler et où les investissements dans le secteur de l’énergie atteindront 54 milliards de dollars d’ici 2030, ces perspectives servent de guide aux financiers et aux développeurs de projets.

L’un des points forts des perspectives pour 2026 est l’accent mis sur les perspectives en amont en Afrique, avec des informations sur les tendances en matière d’exploration et de production (E&P), les prochaines campagnes de forage et l’émergence de nouvelles provinces pétrolières en Afrique. Les perspectives indiquent que la production africaine de pétrole et de gaz devrait atteindre 11,4 millions de barils par jour (bpj) d’ici 2026, le Nigeria étant en tête en termes de ressources récupérables restantes. Les dépenses d’investissement mondiales en matière d’E&P devraient atteindre 504 milliards de dollars d’ici 2026, l’Afrique contribuant à hauteur d’environ 41 milliards de dollars, principalement grâce aux dépenses consacrées aux prospects offshore au Mozambique, en Angola et au Nigeria. Alors que les explorateurs cherchent à faire des découvertes décisives, le rapport montre que l’abondance de bassins immatures et frontaliers en Afrique attire de plus en plus les forages d’exploration, avec des puits à fort impact susceptibles de changer la donne prévus dans des pays tels que l’Afrique du Sud, la Namibie et la Côte d’Ivoire.

Dans les secteurs intermédiaire et aval, la population et l’économie africaines devraient connaître une croissance rapide, stimulant la demande de produits raffinés. La demande africaine de produits raffinés devrait passer d’environ 4 millions de barils par jour en 2024 à plus de 6 millions de barils par jour d’ici 2050, soit une augmentation de 50 %. D’importantes activités de négoce de pétrole ont désormais lieu autour de l’Afrique, principalement pour vendre du pétrole brut et acheter/importer des produits raffinés. Cependant, le rapport montre qu’il existe des possibilités considérables d’améliorer l’efficacité de ces activités et d’augmenter leur valeur pour l’Afrique. Plus de 20 milliards de dollars d’investissements sont nécessaires dans les infrastructures en aval d’ici 2050 pour répondre aux besoins croissants en matière d’importation et de distribution de produits raffinés.

Une section consacrée aux perspectives du gaz et du GNL en Afrique fournit une analyse approfondie du marché. Selon le rapport, le potentiel gazier de l’Afrique est considérable, soutenu par une série de succès en matière d’exploration dans les centres de production existants et les zones frontalières, l’Afrique produisant plus de 300 milliards de mètres cubes de gaz naturel et représentant 8,5 % de l’approvisionnement mondial en GNL (34,7 millions de tonnes) en 2024. Le rapport présente les nouveaux projets de GNL, notamment ceux en Angola, au Sénégal et en Mauritanie, ainsi que les obstacles potentiels à la monétisation et à l’industrialisation du gaz. Les analyses portent également sur la demande intérieure, l’essor des solutions FLNG et le torchage du gaz, aidant ainsi les investisseurs potentiels dans leur prise de décision.

Au-delà du pétrole et du gaz, le rapport offre un aperçu des secteurs de l’électricité et des énergies renouvelables en Afrique, montrant qu’en 2025, la demande en électricité du continent devrait passer d’environ 1 028 TWh à 2 291 TWh d’ici 2050. Le rapport montre que le continent connaît une transition importante vers les sources d’énergie renouvelables, avec environ 25 GW de capacité achetée par les gouvernements en 2024. En outre, environ 11 GW ont été obtenus grâce à des accords d’achat privés. L’engagement de l’Afrique en faveur des sources d’énergie renouvelables offre d’importantes opportunités d’investissement et d’innovation. Entre 2020 et 2025, le continent a investi 34 milliards de dollars dans les technologies d’énergie propre, dont 52 % ont été alloués à l’énergie solaire et 25 % à l’éolien terrestre. Le gaz naturel devrait représenter 45 % de la production totale d’électricité d’ici 2050.

Par ailleurs, l’analyse de la transition énergétique en Afrique révèle des implications émergentes pour le continent. D’ici 2060, la population africaine devrait atteindre 28 % de la population mondiale, mais sa part dans les émissions liées à l’énergie devrait rester modeste, à seulement 9 %, reflétant à la fois la faible consommation d’énergie par habitant du continent et la possibilité de s’engager dans une voie de développement à faible intensité de carbone. À ce titre, le rapport montre l’impact des réglementations en matière d’émissions, les opportunités offertes par le commerce du carbone et l’intérêt d’une approche intégrée du développement énergétique en Afrique. Grâce à ces informations, le rapport « State of African Energy 2026 Outlook » de l’AEC constitue un outil essentiel pour les investisseurs.

« L’année 2025 a été marquée par des défis sans précédent, et les épreuves et les tribulations ont rendu le travail de l’AEC plus important que jamais. Nous nous engageons à aider les acteurs africains du secteur de l’énergie à naviguer dans un paysage énergétique mondial complexe et en constante évolution. Nous poursuivrons notre mission qui consiste à soutenir le secteur privé dynamique et à libérer le remarquable potentiel énergétique du continent », déclare NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de l’AEC.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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

Source: APO – Report:

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The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org/) – the voice of the African energy sector – will launch its latest outlook, offering strategic insight into the trends, opportunities and challenges of the African energy sector, at African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies on 30 September. Written in collaboration with data and analytics firm S&P Global Commodity Insights, the State of African Energy 2026 Outlook report offers a comprehensive view of various segments of the African energy value chain, from upstream market trends to mid- and downstream to gas and LNG to power, renewables and energy transition. At a time when African energy demand is expected to rise fourfold and energy investments will reach $54 billion by 2030, the outlook serves as a guide for financiers and project developers.

A key highlight of the 2026 outlook is a focus on Africa’s Upstream Outlook, with insights shared into exploration and production (E&P) trends, upcoming drilling campaigns and the emergence of new petroleum provinces in Africa. The outlook shows that Africa’s oil and gas production is expected to reach 11.4 million barrels per day (bpd) by 2026, with Nigeria at the forefront in terms of remaining recoverable resources. Global E&P capital expenditure is set to reach $504 billion by 2026, with Africa contributing around $41 billion, driven largely by expenditure in offshore prospects in Mozambique, Angola and Nigeria. As explorers look to make needle moving discoveries, the report shows that Africa’s abundance of immature and frontier basins are increasingly attracting exploration drilling with potentially game-changing high impact wells planned in countries such as South Africa, Namibia and Ivory Coast.

In the mid- and downstream sectors, Africa’s population and economy are expected to grow at a fast pace, driving demand for refined products. Africa’s refined product demand is projected to rise from ~4 million bpd in 2024 to over 6 million bpd by 2050, representing a 50% increase. Significant oil trading activity now takes place around Africa, mostly to sell crude oil and purchase/import refined products. However, the report shows that there is considerable opportunity to improve the efficiency of this and increase the value to Africa. More than $20 billion in investment is required in downstream infrastructure by 2050 to support the increasing need for refined product imports and distribution.

A section on Africa’s gas and LNG outlook provides an in-depth analysis of the market. According to the report, Africa’s gas potential is significant, buoyed by a raft of exploration successes in existing production hubs and frontiers with Africa producing more than 300 billion cubic meters of natural gas and accounting for 8.5% of global LNG supply (34.7 million tons) in 2024. The report outlines new LNG projects, including those in Angola, Senegal and Mauritania, while potential roadblocks to gas monetization and industrialization. Insights also cover domestic demand, the rise in FLNG solutions and gas flaring, thereby supporting decision-making by potential investors. 

Beyond oil and gas, the report offers insights into Africa’s power and renewables sectors, showing that in 2025, the continent’s power demand is projected to increase from an estimated 1,028 TWh to 2,291 TWh by 2050. The report shows that the continent is witnessing a significant shift towards renewable energy sources, with ~25 GW of capacity procured by governments as of 2024. Additionally, ~11 GW has been secured through private offtake agreements. Africa’s commitment to renewable energy sources presents significant opportunities for investment and innovation. Over 2020-2025, the continent invested $34 billion in clean power technologies, with 52% allocated to solar energy and 25% to onshore wind. Natural gas is projected to account for 45% of total power generation by 2050.

Meanwhile, insights into Africa’s energy transition shows emerging implications for the continent. By 2060, Africa’s population is projected to rise to 28% of the global total, yet its share of energy-related emissions is expected to remain modest at just 9%, reflecting both the continent’s low per capita energy use and the opportunity to pursue a low-carbon development pathway. As such, the report shows the impact of emissions regulations, opportunities in carbon trade and the value of an integrated approach to energy development in Africa. Through these insights, the AEC’s State of African Energy 2026 Outlook represents a vital tool for investors.

“2025 has been a year of unprecedented challenges, and the trials and tribulations have made the AEC’s work more important now than ever. We are committed to helping Africa’s energy stakeholders navigate a complex and ever-changing global energy landscape. We will continue our mission to support the dynamic private sector and unlock the continent’s remarkable energy potential,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Angola International Mining Conference (AIMC 2025) Reveals Dynamic Lineup of Sponsors and Exhibitors — Four Weeks to Go

Source: APO – Report:

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With just four weeks until doors open, AIMC 2025 today unveiled an expanded and compelling roster of sponsors and exhibitors that reflects growing global interest in Angola’s mining potential.

The initial list brings together government bodies, mining operators, service providers, equipment suppliers, financiers and international partners — signaling a high-impact event on October 22–23 in Luanda where strategy, investment and sustainable development will be front and center.

Standout sponsors and partners

  • Institutional & regulatory: ANRM (National Agency for Mineral Resources) — Titanium Sponsor; SODIAM E.P. — Platinum; ENDIAMA E.P. — Diamond; Port of Namibe — Gold. These institutions will play a central role in panels and bilateral meetings, presenting regulatory updates, investment incentives and regional licensing priorities that aim to streamline project development and strengthen oversight.
  • Operators & producers: Sociedade Mineira de Luele — Platinum; Sociedade Mineira de Catoca — Diamond; De Beers — Diamond; exhibitors include Rio Tinto, Minbos and Kaixepa. Attendees can expect operator-led sessions on exploration breakthroughs, mine development roadmaps, community engagement strategies and case studies demonstrating operational best practice in Angola’s geology.
  • Energy: Sonangol — Titanium; Sonagalp — exhibitor. Representatives will discuss energy supply frameworks for mining operations, opportunities for local content in fuel and power infrastructure, and collaborative approaches to decarbonization and shared logistics.
  • Finance & insurance: ENSA Seguros de Angola — Gold; Caixa Angola — exhibitor; Banco Keve — Associate Sponsor. These institutions will host workshops and roundtables on project finance structures, risk mitigation tools, insurance products tailored to mining, and investor readiness — critical for translating resource potential into funded projects.
  • Equipment & services: HiperMáquinas Angola — Platinum; Maqman / Maqtools — Gold; GeoAtlanticus — Gold. The exhibitor hall will showcase the latest in heavy machinery, drilling technology, geotechnical services, surveying, and digital monitoring solutions, enabling operators and service providers to evaluate fit-for-purpose equipment and local supply chain options. Additional confirmed names: Tratomaquinas, Alaturca, Geosondas, Chinangol, Dronesig Angola, Mpolo / Tecnopromic, CNC ITIE, Ciertex Angola, Sonair, SinoStore Group, Huawei and Transorga Angola Limitada.
  • International partners & exhibitors: Minelabe, PRD Rigs, Bauer, SONAIR, KODO Drilling, Bond Equipment and Spatial Dimension. These global suppliers and technical partners will provide international perspectives on best practices, technology transfer and joint-venture opportunities, reinforcing Angola’s attractiveness for cross-border partnerships.

Digital Mining Cadastre: a governance milestone

AIMC 2025 will formally launch Angola’s Digital Mining Cadastre — a transformative step toward digitized licensing and transparent governance. The Cadastre centralises permit applications, geological and spatial data, license histories and compliance records in a single online platform. This will accelerate approval timelines, reduce administrative bottlenecks, and create an auditable trail that improves investor confidence and public accountability.

The official launch — expected to feature remarks by His Excellency João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço — will include a live demonstration, stakeholder Q&A and sessions on integration with environmental permitting and tax reporting systems.

Program highlights and thematic deep dives

The conference program is built to move conversations from policy to practice, with targeted sessions that combine high-level strategy and actionable outcomes:

  • Financing the Future: A deep dive into financing mechanisms for exploration and mine development, including project structuring, off-take agreements, equity and debt instruments, and public-private partnership models. Speakers such as Maurice Madiba (Johannesburg Stock Exchange) and Fernando Amaral (SODIAM E.P.) will present case studies and investor expectations for risk-return profiles in Angola.
  • Risks, Taxation & Regulation: Practical guidance on navigating Angola’s fiscal regime, tax incentives, royalty structures and compliance obligations. Panelists including Rúben Brigolas (PLMJ Advogados) and insurance experts from Ensa Seguros will address dispute prevention, contract best practices and strategies to mitigate political, environmental and operational risks.
  • Sustainable Supply Chain: Focused discussion on the Lobito Corridor as a backbone for mineral export logistics, covering port capacity, rail and road integration, customs facilitation, local content development and community benefits. The session will explore opportunities to shorten lead times, reduce costs and enhance traceability across the value chain.
  • Oil & Mining Synergies: Cross-sector dialogue on shared infrastructure, knowledge transfer and coordinated resource planning. Senior leaders from ANPG, IGEO, ANRM and companies such as Equinor, Sociedade Mineira da CATOCA and SONANGOL will examine models for co-investment in power, transport and processing facilities that unlock scale economies.
  • Women in Mining & Inclusion: Panels and breakout sessions highlighting programs, mentorship pathways and procurement opportunities to accelerate women’s participation across technical, management and leadership roles in mining and oil & gas.
  • Strategic Minerals & Energy Transition: Technical and policy sessions on critical minerals, responsible sourcing, local beneficiation opportunities and Angola’s role in global supply chains for the energy transition, with contributions from Pensana Plc and the Critical Minerals Africa Group.

Global participation and governance agenda

AIMC 2025 has attracted major multinationals — Rio Tinto, De Beers and Ivanhoe — alongside specialist consultancies like Wood Mackenzie and civil-society watchdogs such as Global Witness. This mix creates a platform for frank discussion on governance, ESG performance, anti-corruption measures and community rights. Sessions will explore how international standards and local regulation can align to attract capital while ensuring social and environmental safeguards.

Momentum ahead of the conference

Momentum is building — last week’s pre-event webinar on the Lobito Corridor drew more than 700 participants and sparked follow-up meetings between public and private stakeholders. The exhibitor floor is shaping up to be a marketplace for partnerships, procurement and technological upgrades, while the conference program is curated to produce concrete next steps for project development.

Next steps — register and engage

Delegates, exhibitors, investors and media are invited to register now. Early registration secures access to plenaries, workshops, networking lounges and one-on-one meetings with sponsors and delegations. 

– on behalf of VUKA Group.

About AIMC 2025:
AIMC 2025 (Angola International Mining Conference) convenes public and private sector leaders, investors, technical experts and civil society to advance responsible mining development in Angola. The conference promotes investment, transparency, sustainability and regional integration across the mining value chain, aiming to translate geological potential into long-term economic value for Angola.

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South Africa’s pivotal role in reshaping global finance at the G20

Source: Government of South Africa

By Sandile Nene 
Prior to 1994, South Africa was a country whose brand image was defined through the entrenched apartheid system. Its architecture was that of being racist, oppressive and fascist in character.

After the first democratically elected government came into power in 1994, it prioritised to change the country’s image as well as to reposition the country’s focus on domestic and global priorities to create a better Africa and a better world. To this end, the country has consistently worked with many partners to foster peace and stability while attracting much needed stability for socio-economic prosperity. 

Internally, South Africa has created ‘a rainbow nation’ whose prospect is to foster a cohesive nation; a country that thrives on its diversity as well as being proponents of a need for an inclusive economy that thrives through its people irrespective of race or gender through hosting various international events of the highest calibre. 

Today, South Africa’s journey from apartheid to democracy places it in a unique position on the global stage as a trusted bridge between the Global South and the developed North. Our experience on the home front in fostering solidarity, promoting equitable development, and facilitating inclusive dialogue underpins our efforts to reshape the global financial architecture to better serve all nations.

Through our G20 Presidency, South Africa is working to build common ground and make global finance more responsive to the needs of developing economies, particularly those in the African and Caribbean continents. Our engagements have already made significant strides in redefining key aspects of international finance.
At the recent G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) meeting held in Durban, we focused global attention on the pressing global finance areas of debt sustainability, inclusive finance, and climate resilience.

One of the central focuses of South Africa’s G20 Agenda is addressing the pressing issue of debt sustainability for low-income countries, especially the 53 countries in the continent. Many African nations are burdened by unsustainable debt levels, often spending more on repayments than on essential services like healthcare and education.

This challenge is made worse by the continued disproportionately high borrowing costs African countries face compared to wealthier nations. These conditions severely restrict their ability to invest in development and achieve the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

South Africa has helped drive renewed commitment to tackling debt challenges by promoting greater transparency, data sharing, and collaboration among creditors. We are exploring practical ways to reduce high borrowing costs and to strengthen capital flows into emerging and developing markets.

We are also calling for urgent reforms to the international financial system to provide faster, fairer, just and more effective debt relief. We recognise the limitations of existing mechanisms such as the G20 Common Framework for Debt Treatments, introduced in 2020 to help low-income countries during the COVID-19 crisis. 

The framework has been slow to deliver results, excludes many middle-income countries in serious debt distress, and often imposes strict conditions on poor nations that undermine national development priorities.
South Africa is also leading efforts to strengthen financial inclusion. Our G20 Presidency is pushing for a shift from simply giving people access to financial services to ensuring meaningful use and empowerment, especially for small businesses. 

Based on our domestic experiences, we believe that real inclusion means empowering individuals and businesses to actively participate in and shape the financial ecosystem. We are also advancing innovation, particularly in digital payments, cross-border transactions, and financial technology, which is key to unlocking growth across the continent.

Alongside this, South Africa is calling for stronger social protection systems, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa where millions still lack basic safety nets. We see investment in health, education, and income support not only as a humanitarian obligation, but as a smart economic strategy that can boost growth and reduce inequality.

Climate change remains one of the most urgent global challenges, particularly for Africa, which is already experiencing severe impacts like floods, droughts, and extreme weather events. At the Durban FMCBG, real progress was made on sustainable finance, including integrating climate adaptation into financial systems, scaling up climate funding, and piloting a Common Carbon Credit Data Model to bring more transparency to carbon markets.

South Africa has prioritised funding for a just transition to green economies, including support for platforms such as the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP). This approach is helping our country shift away from coal dependence with strong international financial support.

A major theme of our G20 leadership has been advocating for a stronger voice for developing countries in multilateral development and financial institutions. We are of the firm view that global finance cannot be truly inclusive without fair representation and decision-making power for the Global South.

At the Durban meeting, participants welcomed the analytical work led by South Africa and international partners. Looking ahead, there is strong support for exploring a medium-term G20 framework to support African growth, better align finance and health priorities, and improve pandemic preparedness, prevention, and response.

As the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors next reconvene in Washington this October on the sidelines of the World Bank and IMF Annual Meetings, the Durban gathering stands as a blueprint for global economic cooperation.

South Africa has shown that a more just and equitable global financial system is possible. It requires solidarity, fairness, and a shared commitment to leaving no one behind.

*Sandile Nene is the Acting Deputy Director-General for Content Processing and Dissemination in the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).
 

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AGU continues with disruptive operations

Source: Government of South Africa

The Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) has been actively involved in several disruptive operations since Monday, 22 September 2025, with the goal of reducing gang-related activity in several communities. 

Seven suspects have been arrested as a result of these efforts for possessing live ammunition and illegal narcotics.

A female suspect was arrested at Westgate Flats in Eldorado Park. Acting on a tip-off, AGU members found her in possession of a substantial quantity of suspected illegal substances, including crystal meth, methcathinone (cat), mandrax and dagga.

In a separate incident, a male suspect was arrested in Vrede Dorp after he was found with two live rounds of ammunition. The suspect was unable to provide a valid license for the possession of these rounds, leading to his arrest.

The following day, on Tuesday, 23 September 2025, AGU members arrested three males aged 40, 41, and 24, during three separate incidents within the Moffatview policing precinct. They were found in possession of tablets suspected to be mandrax, including crystal meth, and cat.

AGU members conducted patrols on Wednesday, 24 September 2025, in the Booysens and Moffatview areas, resulting in the arrest of two additional male suspects. These individuals were found with crystal meth, mandrax, methcathinone (cat), and glass pipe smoking tubes (lolly pipes).

Brigadier Maphoto, the AGU Commander, expressed his approval of the operation’s outcomes, saying these arrests and the significant quantities of drugs and ammunition seized should serve as a stern warning to those contemplating criminal activities. 

“We are unwavering in our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our communities,” he said.

In total, the AGU’s operations have resulted in the seizure of 38 ziplocks of crystal meth, 23 full mandrax tablets, 61 half mandrax tablets, nine quarter mandrax tablets, 29 ziplocks containing methcathinone, 50 pokes of dagga and two illegal live ammunition rounds.

All arrested suspects were detained at local police stations and have since made their appearances in the relevant courts.

The AGU urges all residents to continue providing these valuable tip-offs and the continued collaboration with the SAPS. 

The public is encouraged to report these tip-offs to the SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or to alternatively download the MySAPS App onto any smart device. Tipsters may opt to remain anonymous. – SAnews.gov.za`

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Mushrooms may have been part of early human diets: primate study explores who eats what and when

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Alexander Piel, Asso. Professor in Anthropology, University College London, UCL

Mushrooms may not be the first food that comes to mind when we imagine the diets of wild primates – or our early human ancestors. We tend to think of fruits and green leaves as the preferred foods for monkeys and apes.

But our new study from the Issa Valley in western Tanzania highlights a surprising, and potentially crucial, role for fungi in primate diets.

For nearly two decades, our work has centred on what it means to be a savanna-woodland primate in east Africa. Far from their forest-dwelling cousins, these populations are exposed to higher temperatures, as well as woodland and grassland vegetation where they can find food – or be in danger from predators like wild dogs and hyenas.

Broadly, we are interested in competition between species. For example, how do baboons and smaller monkeys avoid larger (and predatory) chimpanzees when looking for ripe fruits? Mushrooms may provide an answer.

We found that while all three primate species under study consumed mushrooms, their use and reliance differed throughout the year. Mushrooms were seasonally important for red-tailed monkeys and chimpanzees, becoming a fall-back food when ripe fruit was scarce, despite overall making up only 2% of their diet. For baboons, mushrooms were a preferred food, with fungi forming more than a tenth of their diet despite being available for only half the year.

Our findings not only shed light on the way that primates rely on and respond to their environment, but also hint at the evolutionary roots of human mycophagy (mushroom eating). Fungi have been overlooked in research into ancient diets because they don’t fossilise well and leave little trace in the archaeological record.

By examining which foods are consumed by primates, we can better reconstruct scenarios of how early human species may have competed with one another.

Issa fungi foraging

Over four years, we observed three co-inhabiting species – chimpanzees, yellow baboons and red-tailed monkeys – regularly consuming mushrooms.

We used over 50,000 observations of feeding among the three species and found that mushroom consumption wasn’t just incidental. While chimpanzees and red-tailed monkeys ate mushrooms mostly during the wet season, when availability peaked, baboons consumed mushrooms far longer, even when they were relatively scarce.

In fact, for two months of the year, mushrooms made up over 35% of baboons’ diets, suggesting they are a preferred food, not just consumed during fruit-scarce periods, as we suggest for the chimpanzees and red-tailed monkeys.

Chimpanzees and red-tailed monkeys, in contrast, treated mushrooms as a seasonal supplement, valuable when fruits were less abundant. This nuanced difference suggests that mushrooms play different roles within this primate community, depending on ecological strategies and competition dynamics.

Avoiding conflict through fungi

One of the most intriguing ideas to emerge from our study is the concept of niche partitioning: how animals adapt their diets to minimise competition. This is a well-established phenomenon which can manifest in various ways, from bird species occupying different canopy heights, to carnivores targeting different prey.

In habitats where multiple species coexist, finding one’s own food niche can be the key to survival. At Issa, baboons, chimpanzees and guenons (monkeys) might all be using mushrooms in strategic ways to improve feeding efficiency and reduce tension with each other as they respond to periods when (preferred) ripe fruits are insufficient for all three species.

What does this mean for us?

The implications of these findings stretch far beyond western Tanzania. First, they highlight how mushrooms can serve as a rich, seasonal food source, even for large mammals, providing protein, micronutrients and potentially medicinal benefits. This lends support to theories that fungi may have played a significant role in the diets of early hominins.

In fact, the habitat of Issa is thought to resemble the kind of mosaic woodland landscape where human ancestors evolved. If our primate relatives today are exploiting fungi in this environment, it’s plausible that Australopithecus, Homo habilis and other early human species did too.

Despite this, fungi are often overlooked in reconstructions of ancient diets, largely because they don’t fossilise well and leave little trace. Yet ancient DNA from Neanderthal dental plaque from about 40,000 years ago has revealed traces of mushrooms, tantalising clues that fungi may have been more central to prehistoric life than previously believed.

A caution and a call

The study also raises important questions about human-wildlife coexistence. In many parts of Tanzania, mushrooms are harvested by people and sold in local markets. As climate change and human population growth put pressure on wild resources, competition between humans and wildlife over edible fungi may increase. Understanding who eats what and when could help in managing these shared resources sustainably.

At a time when biodiversity is under threat and food security is a growing global concern, this research reminds us that hidden treasures like wild mushrooms aren’t just tasty; they’re significant for ecology and evolution.

Fungi can add to our understanding of where we came from and how we might share our ecosystems going forward.

– Mushrooms may have been part of early human diets: primate study explores who eats what and when
– https://theconversation.com/mushrooms-may-have-been-part-of-early-human-diets-primate-study-explores-who-eats-what-and-when-264089

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Global strategic speakers confirmed to accelerate energy transformation at 4th Edition of the International African Energy, Oil and Gas Summit 2025

Source: APO – Report:

IAEOGS 2025 to convene world-class speaker faculty of global, regional and domestic energy leaders in Windhoek, from the 6th -10th of October 2025

IAEOG Summit agenda to address key topics, including; Energy access, Local content, LNG security, decarbonisation, hydrogen and ammonia market growth, carbon pricing, and clean energy investment

It would feature panel discussions, presentations, exhibitions, high-level CEO dialogues, policy roundtables, and investor-led sessions shaping the future of Africa’s energy system and of the wider region and a charity golf tournament, award presentations, tours and a host of others.

The super hybrid event is an independent initiative in support of the AfCFTA drive to contribute to establishing regional value chains in Africa, enabling investment and job creation in the continent. The ultimate goal of the summit is to create a platform for global trade, intra-Africa trade and guarantee energy security in Africa.

The overall mandate of the AfCFTA is to create a single continental market with a population of about 1.3 billion people and a combined GDP of approximately US$ 3.4 trillion. According to recent reports Intra-African trade is still below 15% despite efforts to promote it through initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Increased intra-African trade is seen as crucial for regional development, as it can lead to economic diversification, job creation, and increased competitiveness, this is what the summit seeks to achieve.

IAEOGS 2025 is a major gathering for the energy, oil and gas industry, drawing participants from various sectors. High-level delegates, including government officials, industry leaders, and international representatives, attend the summit. The event focuses on discussions, networking, and deal-making opportunities, fostering collaboration and sustainable development within the oil and gas sector.

As part of Dangote Group’s $20 billion investment in Africa’s energy future, Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced plans to establish a major fuel storage and distribution terminal at Walvis Bay Port, Namibia.

The terminal will feature storage tanks with a combined capacity of at least 1.6 million barrels of petrol and diesel, creating a strategic supply base for Southern Africa. The facility is expected to serve as a central distribution point for Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and potentially the Democratic Republic of Congo, extending the reach of fuel refined in Nigeria.

This development has the potential to reshape Southern Africa’s fuel supply dynamics, as the region currently depends heavily on South African refineries, many of which are either out dated, underperforming, or non-operational. By introducing a new regional supply hub, the project is expected to enhance competition and strengthen energy security.

Positioned within Walvis Bay’s strategic harbour, the development affirms Namibia’s growing role as a gateway for regional fuel distribution while complementing the country’s emerging oil boom and strengthening its position as a rising energy hub in Africa.

Strategic Outcomes of Your Participation

  • Access to unprecedented investment opportunities in Africa’s energy, oil, and gas sector.
  • Direct engagement in 500+ curated B2B and B2G meetings, facilitating deal-making and partnerships.
  • Opportunity to secure a share of $1 billion+ projected investment deals during the summit week.
  • Networking with over 1,000 delegates, 250 exhibitors, and 200 speakers from 45+ countries.
  • Participation in high-level policy dialogues and sector-focused panels shaping Africa’s energy future.
  • Visibility for your organization at Africa’s premier energy investment platform, supported by governments and industry leaders.
  • Exposure to local and international financiers, project developers, and policymakers.
  • Brand strengthening through exhibitions, sponsorships, and recognition opportunities.
  • Contribution to Africa’s socio-economic development and inclusive energy transition.

Objectives of IAEOGS

The International African Energy, Oil and Gas Summit (IAEOGS) is more than a gathering of industry players, it is a catalyst for Africa’s transformation. With the theme “Getting it Right”, the summit seeks to confront Africa’s urgent energy challenges head-on, ensuring that vast natural resources translate into socio-economic development and poverty alleviation. Its objectives are —

  • To unite global financiers, developers, and industry leaders in shaping Africa’s energy, oil, and gas landscape.
  • To attract foreign and local investment into Africa’s energy sector, particularly Namibia’s emerging oil and gas frontier.
  • To serve as a bridge between African companies and international counterparts for partnerships and collaboration.
  • To facilitate dialogue on energy transition, local content, infrastructure development, and climate finance.
  • To accelerate energy access and localize value chains for sustainable socio-economic growth.
  • To showcase Africa’s energy opportunities under AfCFTA, strengthening continental trade and integration.
  • To provide a platform for business-to-business and business-to-government engagement.
  • To honor innovation, leadership, and sustainable practices in the African energy sector.
  • To promote inclusive development through initiatives like the Charity Golf Tournament supporting youth entrepreneurship and technical education.

O&L Leisure has joined the list of sponsors and partners for the International African Energy, Oil and Gas Summit (IAEOGS) 22025

Proudly owned by the Ohlthaver & List Group, with its foundations firmly rooted in Namibia since 1919, O&L Leisure offers a truly unique and heartfelt hospitality experience. At the core of the company is a genuine love for the country, which shines through in every guest interaction, turning each stay into a memorable journey. “Namibia Through Our Eyes” is O&L Leisure’s slogan and the guiding philosophy of the brand. It represents a commitment to showing the world the true spirit of Namibia through a lens of authenticity, care and passion. The company is guided by a purpose of creating a future, enhancing life, and an unwavering commitment to the O&L Persona, by delivering exceptional world-class experiences across six iconic properties, namely Strand Hotel Swakopmund, Mokuti Etosha, Midgard Otjihavera Windhoek, Chobe Water Villas Zambezi, Le Mirage Sossusvlei, and Divava Okavango.

The Board of Directors of African Peace Organization has announced the appointment of Ms. Naomi Kamati MD of Eltuna Energies as a board member and the new Group Country Director for Namibia and South Africa effective 1st August 2025.

As part of her responsibilities, Naomi will support the Board in driving the Group’s strategic vision and harnessing greater wealth building opportunities among several other roles.

For more information or to register for IAEOGS & Exhibition 2025, please visit: www.IAEOGS.com

Get your VIP Access today

– on behalf of African Peace Magazine.

Additional links:
https://www.AfricanPeaceAwards.com/
https://AfricanOilAndGasSummit.com/
https://www.AfricanPeaceMagazine.com/

Contact us:
Phone:  +44 7407 399 766
Email: info@iaeogs.com
Visit: www.IAEOGS.com
Website: www.AfricanPeace.org 

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President Ramaphosa congratulates Professor Mutharika

Source: President of South Africa –

On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa extends his warm congratulations to Professor Peter Mutharika on his electoral victory in the Republic of Malawi’s general elections of 16 September 2025.

President Ramaphosa wishes Professor Mutharika every success as he prepares to undertake the weighty responsibility conferred upon him by the people of Malawi. 

South Africa looks forward to continuing its close collaboration with Professor Mutharika’s administration, working in concert to strengthen the enduring bonds of friendship and solidarity between our two nations. This partnership is essential for the mutual benefit of our peoples and for the advancement of regional integration.

The President further commends the people of Malawi for their active and peaceful participation in the electoral process, which reaffirms their steadfast commitment to democratic principles, thereby setting a positive example for the region.

In the same spirit, President Ramaphosa expresses his profound appreciation to His Excellency President Lazarus Chakwera for his dedicated leadership. During his tenure, President Chakwera meaningfully strengthened bilateral cooperation between our countries and was a committed advocate for regional unity. 

His contributions to the Southern African Development Community (SADC), notably during Malawi’s chairmanship of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, were instrumental in promoting peace, development, and prosperity across the continent.

South Africa eagerly anticipates working with the incoming Government and the people of Malawi to advance our shared aspirations for the wellbeing of our citizens and the broader African family.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya Spokesperson to the President media@presideny.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Qatar Highlights Commitment to Peace, Humanitarian Efforts in Eastern DRC at UNGA

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 25, 2025

Qatar reaffirmed its active role in supporting peace and humanitarian efforts in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Great Lakes region during a key event held on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Representing Qatar at the event was HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi.

In his address, Dr. Al Khulaifi underscored Qatar’s ongoing contributions to fostering dialogue and advancing the peace process in the volatile region. He highlighted a landmark trilateral meeting hosted by HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani on March 18 this year. The meeting brought together the presidents of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda for direct and candid dialogue – the first since heightened tensions arose between the two nations in 2022.

The minister emphasized that this trilateral meeting served as a crucial starting point for continued African-led mediation efforts, complementing initiatives underway in Luanda and Nairobi.

Dr. Al Khulaifi also pointed to Qatar’s facilitation of consultations in Doha on April 23 between representatives of the DRC and the March 23 Movement (M23) group. These talks culminated in an agreement to pursue a ceasefire aimed at strengthening the existing ceasefire framework. Both parties committed to an immediate cessation of hostilities, rejected hate speech and intimidation, and called on local communities to uphold these principles.

Further, His Excellency welcomed the signing of the Declaration of Principles between the DRC and Rwanda in Washington, D.C., on April 25 – a critical step in addressing ongoing conflicts in eastern Congo.

In a related development, Dr. Al Khulaifi noted a high-level meeting hosted in Doha on April 30 involving representatives from Qatar, Togo, the United States, France, the DRC, and Rwanda. The participants reaffirmed their shared commitment to peace, stability, and economic development in the Great Lakes region.

Discussions at the meeting covered the humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo and progress in dialogue between the DRC government and M23. The group welcomed the Declaration of Principles signed with M23, facilitated by the African Financing Institution.

HE the minister reiterated Qatar’s support for the June 27 peace agreement between the DRC and Rwanda in Washington, describing it as a significant milestone toward lasting peace.

Highlighting Qatar’s ongoing engagement, Dr. Al Khulaifi recalled the July 19 signing ceremony in Doha of the Declaration of Principles between the DRC government and M23, facilitated by Qatar. He stressed Qatar’s active participation in the Joint Monitoring Committee overseeing the peace agreement’s implementation.

Dr. Al Khulaifi affirmed Qatar’s belief that its role in supporting peace and stability will empower humanitarian organizations and aid workers, as well as regional and international donors, to better reach vulnerable populations in eastern Congo.

Alongside mediation efforts, Qatar continues to expand its humanitarian and development assistance. Notably, through the Qatar Fund for Development in cooperation with UNICEF, Qatar has allocated over US$ 29 million to enhance access to education and protection services for children affected by conflict in the DRC.

Concluding his remarks, the Minister of State pledged Qatar’s steadfast commitment to facilitating dialogue among all concerned parties in the DRC and the Great Lakes region. He called on all stakeholders to sustain constructive dialogue that fulfills the Congolese people’s aspirations for lasting peace, development, and prosperity