Category: MIL-OSI

Posted on

Foreign Ministers call for the protection and safety of Gaza aid flotilla

Source: Government of South Africa

The Ministers of Foreign Affairs from several countries have expressed concern for the safety of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which involves citizens from their countries and carries critical aid to Gaza.

Global Sumud Flotilla is an international, civil society-led maritime initiative launched in June this year, built on decades of Palestinian resistance and international solidarity.

“The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Ireland, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Pakistan, Qatar, Oman, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, and Türkiye have expressed concern for the safety of the Global Sumud Flotilla, which involves citizens from their countries and carries critical aid to Gaza,” the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said on Tuesday.

According to the department, the movement has outlined its goal of delivering humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and raising awareness about the urgent needs of the Palestinian people, as well as the necessity of ending the conflict in Gaza.

France24 reported yesterday that a convoy of about 20 boats carrying aid and pro-Palestinian activists, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, was preparing to depart from Tunisia in an attempt to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza.

Despite delays and drone attacks, the flotilla’s mission is to establish a humanitarian corridor to Gaza and demonstrate global solidarity.

“We, therefore, call on everyone to refrain from any unlawful or violent act against the flotilla, to respect international law and international humanitarian law.

“We recall that any violation of international law and human rights of the participants in the flotilla, including attacks against the vessels in international waters or illegal detention, will lead to accountability, “ the statement read.

In addition, the department emphasised that the goals of peace and humanitarian assistance, alongside respect for international and humanitarian law, are shared by these governments. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Posted on

Gauteng law enforcement intensifies operations

Source: Government of South Africa

The Gauteng Transport Inspectorate (GTI) has intensified its high-impact stop-and-search operations as part of the province’s broader strategy to tackle criminality, lawlessness and strengthen compliance with traffic laws.

Between 8 and 14 September 2025, the unit’s officers conducted a number of stop-and-search operations throughout the province. 

During these operations, officers issued numerous infringement notices to non-compliant public transport operators, addressing cases of unroadworthy vehicles, and effecting arrests linked to serious traffic violations and attempted bribery.

In total, over 700 manual infringement notices were issued with a further 827 processed electronically through the GTl e-force gadget.

The high-impact operations also saw 72 vehicles served with discontinue notices for non-compliance with various road safety regulations, while one vehicle was impounded for consequential violations.

The stop-and-search operations also exposed more serious offences.

Two motorists were arrested for attempting to bribe officers, one for contravening the Immigration Act, whilst another for assault grievous bodily harm on an officer.

“Tensions escalated on Friday, 12 September 2025, when GTI officers came under attack from taxi drivers near the Randburg Taxi Rank in Johannesburg. 

“An instigator, a driver affiliated with the Alexandra Taxi Association, was promptly arrested for inciting violence against officers, organising a mob to block the road and throw stones at them, damage to State property (vehicle) and assaulting a female officer causing grievous bodily harm demonstrating the unit’s firm stance against intimidation and lawlessness,” the GTI said on Tuesday.

The Inspectorate said these arrests underscore the organisation’s determination to confront not only road safety breaches but also criminal behaviour that undermines law enforcement.

“Undertaken daily, the operations form part of the Gauteng Provincial Government’s commitment to enforce compliance to traffic laws and improve visibility, ensuring that lawlessness will not be tolerated.

“Comprising a team of 96 officers, the GTI remains committed to enhancing road safety, clamping down lawlessness, and upholding the rule of law in the province.” – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Joint Statement Issued By 16 Countries On the Safety of the "Global Sumud Flotilla"

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha – September 16, 2025

The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Ireland, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Pakistan, Oman, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain and Türkiye express their concern about the security of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a civil society initiative in which citizens of their countries are participating.  

The Global Sumud Flotilla has informed about its objective of delivering humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and raising awareness about the urgent humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people and the need to stop the war in Gaza. Both objectives, peace and humanitarian aid delivery, together with the respect of international law, including humanitarian law, are shared by our Governments. 

We therefore call on everyone to refrain from any unlawful or violent act against the Flotilla, to respect international law and international humanitarian law. 

We recall that any violation of international law and human rights of the participants in the Flotilla, including attacks against the vessels in international waters or illegal detention, will lead to accountability.

Posted on

Network International and National Union Bank Partner to Accelerate Digital Payments in Libya

Source: APO


.

Network International (Network) (www.Network.ae), a leading fintech company in the Middle East and Africa (MEA), has entered into a strategic partnership agreement with National Union Bank – مصرف الاتحاد الوطني (NUB), aimed at modernising Libya’s banking sector and expanding access to secure, innovative financial services. 

Under this agreement, Network International will provide NUB with a comprehensive range of digital payment processing services, including end-to-end prepaid card issuance and a variety of value-added solutions. This collaboration will accelerate NUB’s digital transformation, enhance customer experience, and complement Libya’s national financial inclusion goals. 

Through Network’s advanced ‘Digital Payments as a Service’ platform, NUB will benefit from robust fraud prevention tools, a full suite of back-office managed capabilities, and other premier services. These will enable NUB to deliver seamless, secure, and scalable payment experiences to its customers, improve operational efficiency and reduce time-to-market for new offerings.  

“This partnership marks a significant milestone in our commitment to help expand digital financial services across Libya,” said Dr. Reda Helal, Group Managing Director, Processing, Africa at Network International. “We are proud to support National Union Bank’s transformation journey and help bring modern, inclusive banking solutions to more people. Together, we aim to build innovation, improve customer access, and contribute to the growth of Libya’s fintech ecosystem.” 

Mr. Ahmed Sultan, Chief Executive Officer of National Union Bank, added: “Partnering with Network International allows us to leap forward in our digital strategy. With their proven expertise and cutting-edge technology, we can offer our customers faster, safer, and more convenient financial services. This is a major step toward building a more inclusive and digitally empowered banking environment in Libya.” 

This partnership reflects Network International’s strategic focus on expanding its footprint in the MEA region and collaborating with leading financial institutions to deliver next-generation payment infrastructure.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Network International.

Contacts: 
Network International Corporate Communications  
Dubai, UAE  
Tel: +971 4 303 2431  
Email: lambert.espedido@network.global 

National Union Bank Corporate Communications  
Benghazi, Libya 
Tel: +218 91 075 66 55  
Email: Info@nubank.ly

About Network International:
Network International is the Middle East and Africa’s leading fintech company. Our purpose is to help businesses and economies grow by simplifying payments and commerce. We serve a diverse ecosystem of banks, fintechs, telcos, merchants, governments, and public sector entities spanning 50+ countries – empowering our partners with innovative technology, value-added services, and deep expertise in payment systems and infrastructure. Our 3,000+ team strength on the ground works closely with 250+ financial institutions and 240,000+ merchants to deliver reliable, scalable, and future-ready payment and fintech solutions across the region.   

About National Union Bank:
National Union Bank is one of Libya’s leading commercial banks, driving economic growth through innovation, financial strength, and customer empowerment. With a capital base of 500,000,000 LYD and profits exceeding 50 million LYD in 2024, NUB serves individuals and businesses across 9 branches with a team of 350 banking professionals. Guided by a vision of digital identity and financial inclusion, the bank offers diverse products and modern digital banking solutions that enhance accessibility, efficiency, and client experience, positioning NUB as a trusted partner in Libya’s economic development.  

Posted on

CS OILFIELD Joins African Energy Week as Silver Sponsor, Showcasing Performance-Driven Chemical Solutions

Source: APO


.

CS OILFIELD (https://CS-OILFIELD.com), a specialty oilfield chemicals service company based in Turkey, is pleased to announce its participation as a Silver Sponsor at African Energy Week 2025, which takes place in Cape Town, South Africa, from 29 September to 3 October. The sponsorship demonstrates a firm commitment to advancing performance-driven chemical solutions for Africa’s energy sector.

As a service company built on engineering precision, manufacturing expertise, and logistics agility, CS OILFIELD is uniquely positioned to support African operators and contractors across the entire operational lifecycle. The company’s growing footprint on the continent includes sales, activities, or local presence in eight African countries, with plans for further expansion.

“CS OILFIELD’s story in Africa is one of collaboration and growth,” said Hasan Mutlu, Co-founder of CS OILFIELD. “As a Silver Sponsor at African Energy Week, we’re proudly demonstrating how our chemical solutions, backed by global innovation and delivered through local partnerships, enable procurement efficiency and operational reliability. For us, Africa is more than a market. It is a region where we’re building enduring partnerships and helping operators achieve sustainable success.”

CS OILFIELD’s ability to serve African operators originates with its oilfield chemical hub on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey. This hub ensures cost-efficient manufacturing, flexible delivery routes, and dependable access to the continent. The company’s research and development laboratories in Istanbul further strengthen its offering.

The company’s client-first ethos and transparent processes alleviate the pressures faced by African procurement teams, who must balance cost efficiency with reliability. By combining low-carbon logistics, regional sourcing, and technical knowledge transfer, CS OILFIELD supports the broader sustainability goals of the industry while meeting the specific needs of its customers.

The African Energy Week sponsorship reflects CS OILFIELD’s ‘Building Together’ strategy, which is rooted in a long-term commitment to creating shared value with partners, suppliers, and communities. This strategy also underscores the company’s African expansion approach. By partnering with local companies, investing in resilient supply chains, and sharing expertise with technical teams, CS OILFIELD contributes to skills development, job creation, and community impact. This approach ensures that its presence extends far beyond chemicals to building trust, creating opportunity, and strengthening resilience in Africa’s energy sector.

During the week-long event, attendees are invited to engage with CS OILFIELD’s team at its exhibition booth, where the company will showcase its procurement-friendly, lifecycle-driven approach to chemical services. Ms. Ayobami Ogundipe, Africa Business Development Manager at CS OILFIELD, will also be sharing insights during a presentation session.

“We are excited to be at African Energy week, signalling our long-term commitment to Africa’s energy future,” added Hasan Mutlu. “From drilling efficiency to production sustainability, CS OILFIELD is ready to support the operators, contractors, and communities driving the continent’s growth.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CS OILFIELD.

About CS OILFIELD:
Founded by industry professionals in 2017, CS OILFIELD is a service company built on engineering precision, manufacturing expertise, and logistics agility. The company operates with a clear focus: supporting oilfield operations with chemical systems that are developed in the lab but proven in the field. Its portfolio spans both drilling fluid systems and production chemical treatments, enabling contributions across the full lifecycle of the well — from drilling performance to long-term asset protection. Based in Istanbul, CS OILFIELD’s operations extend across Türkiye, West Africa, and the Caspian region, with a local presence in Nigeria, Angola, Ghana, and Baku. From early engagement to field application, the company remains close to the operation and takes ownership of every challenge it undertakes. https://CS-OILFIELD.com/

Posted on

Progress made in Kariega flood-damaged infrastructure repairs

Source: Government of South Africa

Progress has been made in rehabilitating flood-damaged infrastructure projects in Kariega, says Nelson Mandela Bay Mayor Babalwa Lobishe.

Lobishe, accompanied by Member of the Mayoral Committee Member (MMC) for Roads and Transport, Yolisa Pali-Jongilanga, recently conducted an oversight visit to the Matanzima Bridge and Ponana Tini Road in Kariega where critical repair work is currently underway.

The project is about 60% complete since construction started on 12 May 2025. 

The Mayor said completion was targeted for mid to end of November 2025, allowing the road to reopen shortly after Transport Month, which is commemorated in October.

The rehabilitation project has already created jobs for 300 workers and benefitted between 28 and 30 Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), particularly Grade 1 construction companies – an entry-level construction company.

“Additionally, we are providing on-the-job training for labourers and collaborating closely with community members, business forums, the taxi industry, and Volkswagen. The total budget for both bridges is R73 million, with an expenditure of around R15 million to date,” Lobishe said.

She added that the rehabilitation project aligns with the government’s 7th Administration priorities, which emphasise inclusive economic growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, and enhancing disaster resilience.

“By improving infrastructure, the project enhances access to essential services and economic opportunities for residents. The rehabilitation of Matanzima Bridge and Ponana Tini Road is a direct response to the flood damage, demonstrating the municipality’s commitment to rebuilding resilient infrastructure.”

The Mayor noted that the project also supports the National Disaster Management Framework, aimed at improving prevention and mitigation measures, ensuring better preparedness, and strengthening response and recovery.

“The rehabilitation efforts aim to restore and strengthen critical infrastructure, reducing vulnerability to future disasters. The project involves community engagement and capacity-building, enhancing local preparedness for future emergencies,” Lobishe said.

She emphasised that Matanzima Bridge and Ponana Tini Road are vital transport links, easing congestion and improving access to schools, businesses, health facilities and industrial hubs.

Once completed, she said the project is expected to enhance road safety, reduce travel times, and stimulate local economic activity.

Lobishe acknowledged collaborative efforts between the municipal officials, project managers, and workers for their commitment in driving the project forward within a short space of time.

“While it may seem lengthy, the scale of work required is significant, and we are pleased with the progress. I also want to thank the residents of KwaNobuhle for their patience and support. The success of this project is due, in large part, to the cooperation and encouragement from the local community,” the mayor said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Posted on

Cape Town to host G20 outreach on climate resilience, coastal protection

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

The spotlight will be on Cape Town when Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa leads the G20 Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Ministerial Outreach in the city next week.

The high-level gathering on 22 September is themed ‘Coastal Protection and Eco-Based Disaster Risk Reduction’. It will demonstrate the urgent need for stronger coastal defences as rising seas, storm surges and erosion threaten cities worldwide.

According to the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Cape Town’s own challenges — from frequent storms to erosion along the Green Point coastline — make it an ideal case study for showcasing innovative approaches to environmental and climate resilience.

“The Green Point coastline and Green Point Urban Park highlight both the risks and opportunities for urban resilience, underscoring the need for sustainable coastal protection that blends engineering with Ecosystem-based Approaches (EbA),” the department said.

The outreach will showcase disaster risk reduction strategies rooted in climate adaptation and risk-informed urban planning, aligning with South Africa’s G20 Presidency priorities. These include climate resilience, infrastructure investment, nature-based solutions, and inclusive resilience.

CoGTA said the programme is expected to:

  • Build a shared understanding of coastal resilience as a global priority.
  • Deliver policy recommendations to shape the G20 DRR Ministerial Declaration.
  • Strengthen international cooperation through partnerships, joint research and innovative financing for resilience.

The event will also feature exhibitions of local disaster risk reduction projects, volunteer programmes, and community-based resilience efforts. Participants will include the City of Cape Town Disaster Management Volunteer Corps, NGOs, private sector partners, the National Sea Rescue Institute, the South African Weather Service, the Langa Advice Forum, and other emergency and community organisations.

By hosting the outreach, South Africa aims to position itself as a leader in advancing practical solutions to the climate challenges under its G20 Presidency. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Investments in housing drive economic growth

Source: Government of South Africa

Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane says investing in formal housing and the transformation of informal settlements are critical contributions to infrastructure development and economic growth.

Simelane made the remarks during the Urban 20 (U20) Mayors Summit, held in Sandton, on Saturday.

The U20 seeks to strengthen engagement between the G20 and cities, raise the profile of urban issues on the G20 agenda, and create a platform for cities to develop a collective message and perspective to inform G20 negotiations.

Speaking in a panel discussion on “Local Economies as Engines of Inclusive Development: A New Vision for Governance and Informality through Equitable Climate Action and Public Service Provision”, Simelane called for a paradigm shift on how investors and financial institutions perceive informality in relation to its economic potential.

“Investments in supporting township economy is a contribution to economic growth with potential positive spin-offs such as job creation, improved living standards, and quality of life,” the Minister said.

She warned that financial exclusion of informal enterprises continues to stifle growth and innovation, leaving many promising enterprises unable to scale or compete with more established, formal businesses.

“Addressing these barriers through micro-investment ecosystems and enabling entrepreneurial innovation can unlock sustainable township economic development and greater inclusion in national growth,” Simelane said.

To advance the agenda on local economic development and transformation of informality in cities, Simelane highlighted that the 2024 White Paper for Human Settlements advocates for the implementation of developmental interventions.

Among the interventions include:

•    Infrastructure development projects that are packaged to target areas with Transit-Oriented Development with concentration of growth around frequent public transit corridors by locating housing, offices, shops, schools, and services near metro stations and bus hubs.
•    The transformation of existing townships, and areas which have been established since the 1980s, into sustainable human settlements.
•    Focus on the elimination of spatial monotony and the general character of these areas as low-income dormitory suburbs, improving quality of the living environments, including greening the environment, and unlocking township residential property market, through streamlined land transfer and planning processes.

Shaping municipalities’ economies

The Minister urged municipalities to play a proactive role in shaping their respective economies. This requires inclusive stakeholder participation in developing strategies and plans, such as their integrated development models.

She noted that municipalities still grapple with deep economic and spatial disparities which are not only a historical injustice linked to apartheid, but also a geographical and environmental reality.

“Despite these differences, cities must take their own initiatives, as espoused in our Constitution, to share and distribute the economic benefits to their residents,” Simelane said.

She added that people should not only be connected to cities for employment but also for opportunities linked to decent and adequate housing, better living conditions, skills development, participation in manufacturing and entrepreneurial endeavours that generate production inputs, commercial networks, in order to promote and protect their human. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Advisor to Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Convening of Gulf and Arab-Islamic Summits A Historic Event Reflecting Unity of Gulf, Arab, and Islamic Ranks

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, September 16, 2025

Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari affirmed that the convening of the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit Monday in Doha, as well as the convening of the Extraordinary Session of the Supreme Council of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf regarding the Israeli aggression against the State of Qatar, constitutes a historic event that reflects the unity of the Gulf, Arab, and Islamic ranks.

During a press conference held following the conclusion of the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit, attended by HE Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jassim Mohammed Al Budaiwi, HE Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Ambassador Yousef Al Dobeay, and HE Assistant Secretary-General of the League of Arab States Ambassador Hossam Zaki, Al Ansari said that this event that took place in the capital Doha, at the invitation of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani clearly demonstrated the spirit of solidarity among the Arab and Muslim brothers with the State of Qatar following the brutal Israeli aggression that took place on the 9th of this month.

He expressed the State of Qatar’s deep appreciation and gratitude to all the brotherly Arab and Islamic countries for their solidarity with Qatar in the wake of this aggression, explaining that Arab and Muslim leaders gathered in Doha today to express a unified and strong stance against the treacherous Israeli aggression on the State of Qatar, affirming that targeting the sovereignty of an Arab and Islamic state, and a member of the United Nations, constitutes a dangerous escalation and a direct threat to regional and international peace and security.

The Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs added that this summit is not merely an emergency meeting, but a clear message to the entire world that the Arab and Islamic countries reject aggression, uphold justice and international legitimacy, and affirm that the Palestinian cause will remain at the heart of priorities until the Palestinian people attain their full legitimate rights.

He pointed out that two statements were issued today by the emergency Gulf and Arab-Islamic summits, in which they clearly condemned the Israeli attack and stated that the Israeli behavior and the justifications it relies on are completely invalid, saying in this regard that the evidence for this is what Their Majesties, Excellencies, and Highnesses the leaders confirmed in their statements that all the justifications provided to legitimize this attack on the State of Qatar are invalid under international law and also under all the principles upon which the international community is based.

Al Ansari noted that the two statements issued by the emergency Gulf and Arab-Islamic summits included many steps within the framework of coordination and joint Arab action.

For his part, HE Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council Jassim Mohammed Al Budaiwi reviewed the key points contained in the final statement of the Extraordinary Session of the Supreme Council of the GCC, explaining that the convening of this summit came to affirm the Gulf position in solidarity with the State of Qatar in facing the recent Israeli attacks.

During the press conference, HE Al Budaiwi explained that the Supreme Council of the GCC condemned the Israeli violations against the sovereignty of the State of Qatar and the targeting of civilians and residential facilities, indicating that the leaders of the Council’s member states described the recent aggression as a serious escalation and a blatant violation of international law and the UN Charter, and a direct threat to Gulf security and stability.

According to HE Al Budaiwi, the leaders affirmed that the security of GCC states is indivisible, and that any attack on a member state is considered an attack on all, stressing that all capabilities of the Council will be harnessed to protect the State of Qatar and preserve its sovereignty.

He pointed out that the leaders instructed the GCC Joint Defense Council to hold an urgent meeting in Doha to assess the defense situation and sources of threat in light of the recent Israeli aggression, noting that the summit’s statement called on the Security Council and active countries in the international community to assume their responsibilities and take firm measures to stop Israeli aggressive practices that undermine peace efforts and threaten international peace and security.

He also noted that the statement praised the efforts of Qatar’s security and civil defense agencies for their swift response, containment of the attack’s repercussions, and protection of civilians.

Al Budaiwi emphasized that the Israeli aggression hinders the vital role of the State of Qatar in mediation efforts, calling on peace-loving nations worldwide to condemn the Israeli crimes and work to unify international efforts to confront them.

HE the Secretary-General of the GCC stressed that the convening of the emergency Gulf and Arab-Islamic summits reflects the great stature and credibility the State of Qatar enjoys regionally and internationally.

For his part, HE Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs at the Organization of Islamic Cooperation Ambassador Yousef Al Dobeay addressed the key points issued in the final statement of the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit.

He noted that the high-level presence of leaders from Arab countries and the OIC during the summit was a message to the whole world that the sovereignty and territory of the State of Qatar must not be violated, as it is a pivotal country that plays an internationally accepted and agreed-upon mediation role, especially regarding Gaza.

HE Al Dobeay said during the press conference that the convening of the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit under the current circumstances is a message of solidarity, support, and endorsement of all the measures the State of Qatar is taking to confront the Israeli aggression on its territories, underscoring that any violation of Arab and Islamic lands is a red line that must not be crossed in any form.

He praised the civilized and responsible conduct demonstrated by the State of Qatar in handling this event, which reinforces its well-known image of a diplomatic model committed to international law.

For his part, HE Assistant Secretary-General of the League of Arab States Ambassador Hossam Zaki expressed the Arab League’s appreciation to the State of Qatar for hosting and organizing this major conference, highlighting its importance in enhancing Arab and Islamic solidarity.

During the press conference, he clarified that the speeches delivered by the participating kings, presidents, and leaders expressed a unified stance in support of Qatar’s mediation efforts, confirming the support of all participating countries in the summit for Qatar in these critical political initiatives.

He indicated that the final statement of the Doha Summit addressed several core issues, including condemnation of Israeli attacks and reaffirmation of Qatar’s vital role in conflict mediation. He also noted the cooperation between Qatar and sister countries such as the Arab Republic of Egypt, as well as several African countries, in achieving stable and developmental peaceful solutions.

HE the Assistant Secretary-General of the League of Arab States stated that the summit focused on holding Israel fully responsible for the deterioration of the situation in the region and its violation of international law and order, considering the outcomes of this meeting an important step towards addressing the current developments in the region.

Moreover, the speakers at the press conference emphasized the importance of maintaining regional stability through adherence to international laws and norms, confirming that mediation and diplomatic efforts are the optimal path to avoid escalation and protect civilians.

They also called on all parties to respect the outcomes of the Arab and Islamic summits and adhere to the implementation of the recommendations and statements issued, noting that Arab unity and solidarity are key elements in facing the current challenges.

They also underscored that the efforts of the Arab League have continued since the events of October 7, with the Arab-Islamic Committee playing an important role in addressing many complex issues, including some sensitive individual files. 

Posted on

Transforming Grant Funding to Accelerate Energy Access in Africa – ENGIE Energy Access Publishes New White Paper

Source: APO

ENGIE Energy Access (EEA) (https://Engie-EnergyAccess.com), Africa’s leading off-grid solar provider, has released a new White Paper, “Maximising Impact: Transforming Grant Funding for Energy Access”, calling for a fundamental shift in how grant capital is deployed to close Africa’s energy access gap. 

Sub-Saharan Africa stands at a critical crossroads. With less than five years to 2030, the goal to ensure affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all is at risk of being missed. At the current pace, over 660 million people will remain unelectrified by 2030. Given energy is a critical enabler for other development outcomes, this threatens progress on health, education, economic development and other closely linked goals. 

Off-grid solar and mini-grid solutions can deliver 40% of the needed connections under a least-cost model. However, key challenges are impeding progress, with a current funding gap of $12 billion for standalone systems, and a funding landscape that is fragmented, risk-averse, and at times, misaligned with the realities of operating in frontier markets. This is putting SDG7 out of reach and leaving millions without access to affordable and modern energy. 

EEA’s White Paper argues that grant funding, while essential, is not being used to its full catalytic potential. Drawing on nearly two decades of last-mile delivery experience across nine African countries, the paper highlights how rethinking funding design could unlock private sector capacity and deliver impact at scale. 

Key recommendations include: 

  • Reorienting grant targeting toward closing the access gap and “finishing the job” on SDG7 
  • Tailoring instruments to market segments (households, businesses, and community infrastructure) and risk profiles. 
  • Scaling up grants, with the public sector strengthening their leadership role. 
  • Strengthening delivery systems and governance to ensure transparent, efficient, and sustainable implementation. 

“Public funding is vital to accelerate universal energy access where affordability remains one of the main drivers. To deliver the highest results without shaking market fundamentals, it must be structured to unlock private investment and delivery capacity. Our White Paper sets out practical ways to maximise its impact, drawn directly from our operational realities in rural areas in Sub-Saharan Africa.,” said Gillian-Alexandre Huart, CEO of ENGIE Energy Access. 

This moment, marked by new initiatives like Mission 300 and the phase-out of legacy programs, is a unique opportunity to reset strategy and coordination. If we miss it, the risks are substantial: diluted impact, loss of SDG7 credibility, eroded investor confidence, and disengagement from the private sector. 

ENGIE Energy Access calls on policymakers, donors, financiers, and industry stakeholders to engage with the findings and join in advancing solutions that can help close the energy access gap faster, while supporting economic growth, resilience, and climate goals. 

The White Paper is available for download here : New White Paper | Maximising Impact: Transforming Grant Funding for Energy Access – Engie energy Access (https://apo-opa.co/4n8JeNF)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Engie Energy Access.

Contact: 
press.eea@engie.com

About ENGIE Energy Access:
ENGIE Energy Access is the leading Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGo) and mini-grids solutions provider in Africa. The company develops innovative, off-grid solar solutions for homes, public services, and businesses, providing customers and distribution partners with access to clean, affordable energy. The PAYGo solar home systems are financed through affordable instalments and the mini-grids foster economic development by enabling electrical productive use and facilitating business opportunities for entrepreneurs in rural communities. ENGIE Energy Access counts 1,600 employees, has operations in nine countries across Africa (Benin, Cote d’Ivoire, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia), and delivers clean, affordable energy to more than 3 million customers. Read more on: www.Engie-EnergyAccess.com 

Media files

.