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Vice President Sebastien Pillay Strengthens Seychelles–United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Partnership During Courtesy Call

Source: APO – Report:

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The Vice President, Mr. Sebastien Pillay, welcomed Ms. Alka Bhatia, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative for Mauritius and Seychelles, during a courtesy call at State House on Friday. 

Providing an opportunity to review the longstanding and productive partnership between the government of Seychelles and UNDP, the meeting’s discussions focused on capacity building, the strengthening of institutional governance, climate resilience, and socio-economic initiatives aimed at improving the well-being of the Seychellois people.

The Vice President highlighted the strong alignment between the Government’s development agenda and UNDP’s priorities, noting Seychelles’ emphasis on people-centred development, poverty alleviation, and sustained investment in key sectors such as health, education, housing, and infrastructure. 

He underscored the importance of further strengthening cooperation as Seychelles transitions to high-income status with new development challenges and increasingly relies on bilateral and strategic partnerships to consolidate development gains.

The Vice President, who also holds responsibility for Information, emphasised the need to accelerate service delivery through the digitisation of information. He highlighted ongoing efforts to modernise the digital sector, reduce administrative burdens, and improve public access to information through the revamping of existing electronic structures. In this context, he specifically mentioned the Seychelles Registrar and the National Bureau of Statistics as key institutions for incorporating digitalisation.

Ms. Bhatia welcomed the priorities outlined and reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to supporting Seychelles through its global expertise. She emphasised the importance of inclusive digital public infrastructure, data-driven policymaking, and informed decision-making as essential tools for strengthening governance and accelerating service delivery. 

She further outlined UNDP’s Strategic Plan 2026–2029, which focuses on advancing human development while protecting the planet through four strategic objectives: prosperity for all, effective governance, crisis resilience, and a healthy planet, supported by accelerators including digital and AI transformation, gender equality, and sustainable finance.

Climate change, innovative financing, and access to affordable technology were highlighted as key areas for continued collaboration.

Ms. Bhatia praised the country’s leadership in environmental conservation while underscoring the need for a whole-of-society approach to building a smarter, greener, and more inclusive Seychelles.

Other discussions touched on ongoing and completed collaborative initiatives, including projects related to early warning systems, data and information management, community outreach, and value chain development in the honey and cinnamon sectors, aimed at boosting economic empowerment and export readiness. Reference was also made to the successful implementation of the “Tax Inspectors Without Borders for Criminal Investigation” programme, which strengthened tax audit capacity and domestic resource mobilisation.

As part of her visit, Ms. Bhatia officially presented her credentials on Thursday to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Barry Faure, as the accredited UNDP Resident Representative for Mauritius and Seychelles.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the strong partnership between Seychelles and UNDP, founded on shared values and a common vision for sustainable development with confidence and continuity. Seychelles’ formal relationship with UNDP began in 1977, when the government of Seychelles and UNDP signed the Standard Basic Assistance Agreement that established the framework for long‑term cooperation on national development efforts.

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Public warned against using transformer oil on the body

Source: Government of South Africa

Public warned against using transformer oil on the body

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment (DFFE) has urged the public to refrain from applying transformer oil or any other electrical equipment oil to the body or for any other non-industrial purpose.

Such oils may contain Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) – toxic chemicals that pose serious risks to human health and the environment.

PCBs are a group of man-made organic chemicals that were largely manufactured between 1929 and 1989 and widely used as coolants in oil containing electrical equipment such as electric transformers and capacitors, hydraulic systems, and other industrial applications. 

They were widely used in electrical equipment by energy intensive sectors such as mining, paper and pulp, power generation and distribution, and chemicals, among others.

During engagements with municipalities in 2024, the department noted dangerous misconceptions in some communities, including the belief that transformer oil can be used for treating conditions such as rheumatic arthritis. 

“This has led to requests being made to municipal officials for access to transformer oil – some of which can be contaminated with PCBs. 

“The DFFE strongly warns against this practice and calls on municipal officials to refrain from supplying transformer oil to members of the public,” the department said on Friday.

Although their production was banned in many countries decades ago due to their toxic effects on human health and the environment, PCBs remain a persistent threat especially in older equipment and contaminated sites.

“Studies have shown that PCBs have a potential to cause a variety of adverse effects on both human health and the environment. They are considered possible human carcinogens and are linked to various health issues including immune, reproductive, neurological, and endocrine system problems,” the department said.

In 2014, South Africa gazetted the Regulations to phase-out the use of PCBs and PCB contaminated materials (PCB Regulations). 

“The purpose of which is to prescribe requirements to phase out the use of PCB materials and PCB contaminated materials. 

“These regulations enabled the country to move towards the phasing out of PCB materials as sectors of relevance made strides and put efforts towards the phase out targets of the country,” the department said.

Currently, the country is implementing a project to support municipalities to eliminate the use of PCBs in their equipment. 

This is aimed at ensuring the country’s compliance to the 2025 deadline set by the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants as persistent organic pollutants (POPs). –SAnews.gov.za

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Africa’s Gas Monetization Opportunity: Balancing Exports and Domestic Demand

Source: APO


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Africa’s natural gas potential is undeniably significant, with the continent ranking second globally in terms of discovered but undeveloped gas resources. According to the African Energy Chamber’s (AEC) State of African Energy 2026 Outlook (https://EnergyChamber.org), more than 550 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of recoverable gas remain undeveloped, highlighting a strategic opportunity for investors. Major basins such as Mozambique’s Rovuma Basin (129 tcf) and Nigeria’s Niger Delta (113 tcf) underscore the scale of opportunity. However, opportunities in the sector lie not only in finding supply, but creating viable routes to monetization, industrialization and domestic demand.

LNG Exports Anchor Monetization

With significant export capacity already online, LNG remains the most established monetization route for African gas. In 2024, Africa supplied 34.7 million tons of LNG – with sub-Saharan Africa alone contributing 26.9 million tons. Nigeria, Angola, Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon were already exporters, while Mozambique’s Coral Sul FLNG and Senegal-Mauritania’s Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) project have added new capacity since 2022. Africa’s geographical proximity to both European and Asian markets give the continent a strategic advantage as west and southwest African LNG producers can serve as swing suppliers based on price spreads between Europe and Asia.

Meanwhile, several African export projects include domestic market obligations (DMOs), providing a portion of supply for local power and industrial use. Senegal, for example, plans to draw much of its gas-to-power feed from DMOs tied to GTA and the proposed Yakaar-Teranga LNG project. While DMOs can stimulate early domestic demand, they introduce counterparty and pricing risks. Furthermore, domestic gas prices are often far below international netback levels, creating a challenge for developers.

Global LNG supply is forecast to increase sharply through 2030, driven by the U.S. and Qatar. According to the AEC’s report, this has the potential to push Asian and European benchmark prices down from the $10-$13 per million British thermal unit (MMBtu) range seen in 2024-2025, potentially falling below $6 per MMBtu by the late 2020s. In this context, Africa must compete with increasingly competitive exporters while continuing to develop new projects and supply sources.

Domestic Gas: Power and Industrialization

Gas is expected to grow its share of primary energy demand globally, and African gas demand is forecast to grow by 60% by 2050. North Africa accounts for around two-thirds of Africa’s gas output, and gas dominates the power mix in Algeria and Egypt. Sub-Saharan Africa has a smaller gas-to-power footprint, but it is expanding, with Nigeria boasting 12.6 GW of installed gas-fired capacity. Ghana and Mozambique follow with 2.9 GW and 1.1 GW, respectively, while smaller plants operate in Senegal, Angola, Ivory Coast, Tanzania and South Africa.

Industrial use of gas remains limited but is growing, with South Africa currently serving as the region’s most advanced market for gas derivatives, including ammonia and gas-to-liquids. With the goal of reducing reliance on imports, Angola’s National Gas Plan prioritizes gas for industrial sectors such as petrochemicals, fertilizers and metals. According to the AEC report, gas also has potential in mining and metals processing in countries such as Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Infrastructure and Pricing Constraints

Lacking regional gas transportation networks capable of linking supply basins with demand centers, processing facilities and export terminals, infrastructure remains one of the most significant barriers to gas monetization in Africa. This lack of connectivity constrains both domestic market growth and the ability to move gas efficiently to export hubs.

Pricing is another major challenge throughout the continent, with domestic prices typically regulated and often well below export netbacks. Nigeria’s domestic benchmark price was set at $2.13 per MMBtu in April 2025, while international LNG prices were around $11-$13 per MMBtu in mid-2025. Therefore, the AEC’s report concludes that low domestic prices can stimulate demand but may discourage investment in supply projects, especially non-associated gas developments.

“Africa’s gas sector faces a complex set of constraints, but the opportunities are substantial,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC. “Government’s must balance affordability and energy access with the need to provide returns that support investment in pipelines, processing facilities and power plants. With the right balance of infrastructure investment, policy reform and strategic partnerships, gas can become a cornerstone of Africa’s energy transition and industrialization drive.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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His Excellency (H.E.) Prime Minister Allamaye Halina of Chad Receives African Union Commissioner For Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry, And Minerals

Source: APO


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In a significant step toward strengthening continental cooperation in the extractive industries, His Excellency Ambassador Allamaye Halina, Prime Minister and Head of Government of the Republic of Chad, granted an official audience today to Her Excellency Francisca Tatchouop Belobe, African Union (AU) Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Minerals (ETTIM).

The meeting, held on the sidelines of the International Mining, Quarrying, and Hydrocarbons Exhibition (SEMICA Chad 2026), served as a high-level platform to align the Republic of Chad’s “Vision 2030” with the broader objectives of the African Union’s “Agenda 2063.”

During the deliberations, Commissioner Tatchouop Belobe underscored the indispensable role of the African Minerals Development Centre (AMDC) as the continent’s premier institution for sustainable resource management. She highlighted the Centre’s mandate in implementing continental frameworks that govern mineral exploration and the development of regional value chains.

A central point of the diplomatic exchange was the Commissioner’s formal encouragement for the Republic of Chad to spearhead the ratification of the AMDC Statute. Such a move would be instrumental in finalizing the Centre’s governing structure, thereby unlocking country-specific interventions designed to modernize Chad’s extractive sector through technical expertise and sustainable policy alignment.

The Commissioner expressed her profound satisfaction with the existing collaboration between the AU Commission and Chadian authorities. She emphasized a desire to further embed the Commission’s technical support within Chad’s ministerial departments to foster industrial growth and commercial resilience.

In response, Prime Minister Allamaye Halina congratulated the Commissioner on her mandate and reaffirmed Chad’s leadership role within African Union’s structures and the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC). The Prime Minister signaled the Government’s firm commitment to the AU’s continental programs, specifically pledging to prioritize the ratification process of the AMDC Statute.

The audience concluded with both parties reaffirming their shared commitment to a revitalized mining sector that serves as a catalyst for economic diversification. By structuring the development of natural resources through high-level continental partnerships, the Republic of Chad and the African Union Commission aim to ensure that the continent’s wealth translates into tangible prosperity for its citizens.

For further information, please contact:

Mr. John Magok Nhial | Mineral Resources Development Expert | Directorate of Industry, Minerals, Entrepreneurship and Minerals | African Union Commission | E-mail: NhialJ@africa-union.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Media Contact: Ms. Meaza Tezera | Department of Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals | African Union Commission | E-mail Meazat@africanunion.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).

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Government supports 9.2 million social grant beneficiaries

Source: Government of South Africa

Government supports 9.2 million social grant beneficiaries

Government continues to support vulnerable households by contributing to poverty alleviation and reducing inequality through the administration of social grants by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). 

These efforts are demonstrated by the disbursement of 9.2 million social grants to beneficiaries, providing a critical social safety net.

This is according to Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa, who on Friday provided an update on government’s performance against the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) 2024–2029 for the period April to September 2025.

The performance is measured against government’s priorities for the seventh administration that includes driving inclusive economic growth and job creation; reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living; and building a capable, ethical, and developmental state. 

During this period 452 302 individuals benefitted from food and nutrition programmes, showing momentum in government’s intervention to increase access to nutritious food to all vulnerable individuals.

“Poverty and inequality remain structural challenges, and are compounded by slow growth, energy constraints, and global economic pressures. Social protection continues to play a critical stabilising role for vulnerable households,” the Minister said.

She noted that the rapid gains in poverty reduction achieved before the year 2011 have not yet been fully recovered.

“The rising administered prices and food costs continue to place pressure on household incomes. South Africa’s inequality remains high, with a Gini coefficient of approximately 0.63.

“High unemployment continues to undermine poverty reduction efforts, while challenges persist in grant payment systems, and resourcing for gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) interventions,” the Minister said.

A total of 120 935 victims of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) received psycho-social services, as part of government’s efforts to implement the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, and expand victim support services such as the Thuthuzela Centres, and GBV Desks and Victim Friendly Facilities in police stations.

Education and Early Childhood Development 

The Education and Early Childhood Development (ECD) sector exceeded its 2025 target of 10 000 ECD centres, in addition to the18 000 that are already registered.

The Minister indicated that 1.3 million children are enrolled in ECD programmes.

She said 97% of Sanitation Appropriate For Education (SAFE) projects are completed while expressing concern for the decline in mathematics enrolment in schools.

Ramokgopa called for an acceleration in the elimination of pit latrines and modernisation of school sanitation.

“Expand teacher training and resourcing for mathematics and science. Scale up subsidised ECD access and maintenance funding to provinces. Strengthen disability support units across ordinary schools,” the Minister recommended.

In the reporting period, HIV viral suppression stood at 96%.

“TB treatment success improved to 76.8%, while there has been progress on National Health Insurance (NHI) governance structures despite litigation. Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) coverage is at 79%, short of the 85% target,” the Minister said.

Human Settlements

The Minister stressed that bulk infrastructure in metros and secondary cities should accelerate housing delivery.

This as 7 028 housing units were delivered, only meeting 27% of the MTDP target.

A total of 12 623 serviced sites were completed during the reporting period (against an annual target of 62 800).

“Fast track title deed restoration with digital cadastre integration. Strengthen municipal planning capacity for informal settlement upgrading. [Lastly] enhance coordination between the Departments of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation, and Transport, and Eskom for integrated urban development,” the Minister said.

A total of 8 014 title deeds were issued during the reporting period against an annual target of 16 000.

“Overall, our analysis indicates that government is making steady progress in several priority areas, particularly where coordination across government has improved, and where clear performance indicators are in place.

“At the same time, we have observed that progress tends to be hampered by several challenges that include capacity constraints, delayed implementation, and uneven performance across sectors and regions.

“The MTDP is government’s blueprint for driving change and improving the lives of our people. While progress has been made, we are clear that more must be done, with urgency, discipline and focus,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Economic recovery continues to improve steadily

Source: Government of South Africa

Economic recovery continues to improve steadily

While government’s efforts to support economic recovery are gaining momentum, more need to be done to significantly reduce unemployment.

This is according to the Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa.

“South Africa is making progress, but more must be done to ensure economic recovery translates into jobs, income, and improved well-being for all,” the Minister said on Friday in Pretoria.

She was providing an update on government’s performance against the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) 2024–2029 for the period April to September 2025, which measures performance against government’s priorities  for the seventh administration.

They include driving inclusive economic growth and job creation; reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living; and building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.

Government has achieved a primary budget surplus, signalling its commitment to fiscal discipline. 

In addition, Operation Vulindlela has played a critical role in removing structural constraints to economic growth. 

“During the reporting period, progress has been reported in energy reforms, logistics and water infrastructure coordination. This has contributed to improved system performance and greater private-sector investment confidence,” Ramokgopa said.

She noted that South Africa recorded 0.8% Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth in the second quarter (Q2) of 2025, the strongest quarterly performance since 2022, despite global economic volatility. 

“The unemployment rate declined by 1.3 percentage points to 31.9%, with 248 000 jobs added in the third quarter (Q3) 2025. However, youth unemployment remains extremely high at 58.5%, signalling deep structural labour market challenges. 

“Poverty and inequality remain entrenched, with a Gini coefficient of 0.63. South Africa is making progress, but more must be done to ensure economic recovery translates into jobs, income, and improved well-being for all,” the Minister said.

South Africa’s exits from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list after successfully implementing key reforms to combat money laundering and the financing of terrorism has improved investor confidence.

Ramokgopa highlighted key sectors that continue to show progress. 

These include R44.2 billion in new investments that were secured across sector masterplans, the automotive sector saw launch of BMW X3 Plug In Hybrid Electric Vehicle, backed by a R4.2 billion investment and battery minerals pipeline is valued at R40 billion.

In the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) and informal economy, 45 105 jobs were created, and 41 753 were sustained through MSME programmes.

“In tourism, international arrivals increased to 7.6 million between January and September 2025. Tourism visa reforms are underway through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system

“In terms of energy security, more than 175 consecutive days without load shedding were recorded in the reporting period. The Energy Availability Factor improved to 63.29%, reaching 70% on several days,” she said.

Infrastructure

Government has set aside R1.03 trillion for public infrastructure over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF).

The Minister emphasised that infrastructure investment remains a key lever for inclusive growth in the country.

“The Infrastructure Fund has approved 26 blended finance projects worth R101.6 billion. The Budget Facility for Infrastructure (BFI) approved 10 major projects worth R37.1 billion for implementation.

“Despite this momentum, delays persist due to municipal capacity constraints, procurement inefficiencies, and inadequate project preparation.

“High municipal debt levels (94.6 billion rand as at March 2025) pose risks to infrastructure sustainability. Grid expansion delays also threaten future energy security, despite recent improvements,” she said.

Local government performance

According to the Minister, work continues to strengthen the performance of local government as financial challenges in municipalities persist.

“An Inter-Ministerial Committee has been established to support distressed municipalities. Local government reforms are being introduced through the review of current legislative and regulatory framework with the development of a White Paper on Local Government (LGWP).

“The Presidential Working Group has also been established to support Metros, including the implementation of the Metro Trading Service Reform Programme,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Afreximbank annonce la fin de sa relation avec Fitch Ratings pour la notation de son crédit

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) a officiellement mis fin aujourd’hui à sa relation avec Fitch Ratings pour la notation de son crédit.

Cette décision fait suite à un examen de cette relation et à la conviction d’Afreximbank que la notation de son crédit ne reflète plus une bonne compréhension de son accord constitutif, de sa mission et de son mandat.

Le profil d’activité d’Afreximbank demeure solide, grâce à des relations étroites avec ses actionnaires et aux protections juridiques prévues par son accord constitutif, signé et ratifié par ses États membres.

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

Contact Presse :
Vincent Musumba
Responsable, Communications et évènements ( Relations média)
Courriel : press@afreximbank.com

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À propos d’Afreximbank :
La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) est une institution financière multilatérale panafricaine dédiée au financement et à la promotion du commerce intra et extra-africain. Depuis 30 ans, Afreximbank déploie des structures innovantes pour fournir des solutions de financement qui facilitent la transformation de la structure du commerce africain et accélèrent l’industrialisation et le commerce intrarégional, soutenant ainsi l’expansion économique en Afrique. Fervente défenseur de l’Accord sur la Zone de Libre-Échange Continentale Africaine (ZLECAf), Afreximbank a lancé les le Système panafricain de paiement et de règlement (PAPSS) qui a été adopté par l’Union africaine (UA) comme la plateforme de paiement et de règlement devant appuyer la mise en œuvre de la ZLECAf. En collaboration avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf et l’UA, la Banque a mis en place un Fonds d’ajustement de 10 milliards de dollars US pour aider les pays à participer de manière effective à la ZLECAf. À la fin de décembre 2024, le total des actifs et des garanties de la Banque s’élevait à environ 40,1 milliards de dollars US et les fonds de ses actionnaires s’établissaient à 7,2 milliards de dollars US. Afreximbank est notée A par GCR International Scale, Baa2 par Moody’s, AAA par China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI), A- par Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) et BBB par Fitch. Au fil des ans, Afreximbank est devenue un groupe constitué de la Banque, de sa filiale de financement à impact appelée Fonds de développement des exportations en Afrique (FEDA), et de sa filiale de gestion d’assurance, AfrexInsure, (les trois entités forment « le Groupe »). La Banque a son siège social au Caire, en Égypte.

Pour plus d’information, veuillez visiter : www.Afreximbank.com

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Le Cadre de gestion des risques d’Afreximbank évalué et certifié conforme à la norme ISO 31000 : 2018, renforçant ainsi son mandat en tant que principale institution de financement commercial du continent

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) a obtenu la certification ISO 31000 : 2018 relative à la gestion des risques auprès de Certification Partner Global (CPG), marquant ainsi une étape importante dans son évolution institutionnelle et son engagement envers l’excellence opérationnelle.

Délivrée en novembre 2025, cette certification fait suite à des évaluations indépendantes rigoureuses du Cadre de gestion des risques d’Afreximbank, réalisées par des auditeurs externes, et n’ayant révélé aucune non-conformité. Cette réussite place l’institution financière multilatérale panafricaine parmi les principales banques de développement et institutions financières internationales ayant obtenu cette certification prestigieuse.

La norme ISO 31000 : 2018, élaborée par l’Organisation internationale de normalisation (ISO), constitue la référence mondiale en matière de pratiques de gestion des risques. Elle fournit des principes et des lignes directrices complets couvrant la conception, la gouvernance, la mise en œuvre, l’évaluation et l’intégration de la gestion des risques au sein des organisations. Cette certification atteste que le Cadre de gestion des risques d’Afreximbank répond aux meilleures pratiques internationales tout en prenant en compte la complexité spécifique de ses opérations dans 54 États membres africains et au sein de la Communauté caribéenne (CARICOM).

Commentant cette certification, Dr Elias Kagumya, Directeur général du Groupe, en charge de la Gestion des risques a déclaré : « L’obtention de la certification ISO 31000 : 2018 ne se limite pas à une reconnaissance internationale ; elle est le fruit d’années d’investissement délibéré dans le renforcement de nos capacités institutionnelles et l’intégration d’une culture proactive du risque au sein de notre organisation. En tant qu’institution fondée sur un traité, disposant d’un bilan de 45 milliards de dollars US et soutenant le commerce africain sur divers marchés, nous sommes conscients que la gestion efficace des risques est essentielle à la réalisation de notre mission. Cet exploit garantit à nos parties prenantes – États membres, banques commerciales, investisseurs et entreprises clientes – que nous opérons avec le même niveau de maturité en matière de risques que les principales institutions financières mondiales.  Notre cadre de gestion des risques offre une approche globale de la gestion des risques et de la protection des objectifs de la Banque. En identifiant, en comprenant et en surveillant avec soin les risques dans tous les domaines d’activité, de la stratégie commerciale aux enjeux environnementaux et liés à notre mandat, ce cadre garantit une gestion stable et rigoureuse de nos principaux programmes, plateformes et outils financiers. »

Cette certification s’inscrit dans le cadre des priorités du Plan stratégique VI d’Afreximbank – Mise en place d’un cadre de gestion des risques mature – et témoigne de l’engagement de la Banque en faveur de l’amélioration continue de sa gouvernance, de sa transparence et de ses normes opérationnelles. En 2025, Afreximbank a lancé un projet d’évaluation comparative exhaustif de son cadre de gestion des risques d’entreprise (GRE) par rapport à la norme ISO 31000 : 2018, en collaboration avec CPG, organisme d’accréditation indépendant.

Cette certification génère des avantages concrets pour l’ensemble des opérations d’Afreximbank. Le cadre ISO 31000 : 2018 renforce la confiance des parties prenantes en démontrant la maturité des systèmes de gestion des risques de la Banque et son engagement en faveur de l’amélioration continue. Il renforce la culture du risque à l’échelle de l’entité en favorisant l’identification et l’atténuation proactives des risques dans l’environnement opérationnel complexe de la Banque. La norme ISO 31000 fournit également des orientations structurées pour l’intégration des considérations de risque dans l’élaboration de la stratégie, la planification financière, la gestion des initiatives et l’aide à la prise de décision éclairée.

En outre, la norme permet des gains d’efficacité grâce à l’adoption de lignes directrices formelles pour le suivi, l’examen et l’amélioration des pratiques de gestion des risques, y compris des outils améliorés pour le signalement et la communication des risques à l’échelle de la banque. Elle renforce l’environnement de contrôle global de la Banque en validant la mise en œuvre efficace de pratiques et d’outils de gestion des risques sains.

Certification Partner Global (CPG), l’organisme d’accréditation international qui a délivré la certification, a déclaré : « Le Cadre de gestion des risques d’Afreximbank représente une approche globale et sophistiquée de la gouvernance des risques à l’échelle de l’entreprise. La Banque a démontré une capacité exceptionnelle à identifier, évaluer, traiter et surveiller les risques liés à ses divers programmes stratégiques, plateformes et instruments clés, grâce à un univers des risques bien structuré qui couvre neuf catégories de risques critiques, allant des risques stratégiques et opérationnels aux risques liés aux mandats. L’alignement de ce cadre sur les meilleures pratiques internationales, comme en témoigne le Cadre de gestion des risques d’entreprise d’Afreximbank (version 1.1, mars 2024), reflète l’engagement de la Banque en faveur d’une gouvernance des risques rigoureuse et la positionne comme un leader de la gestion des risques institutionnels dans le secteur financier mondial. Nous sommes heureux de certifier ce cadre, qui fournit une base solide à Afreximbank pour poursuivre ses objectifs stratégiques tout en maintenant les plus hauts standards de surveillance des risques et de résilience opérationnelle ».

Cette certification intervient à un moment charnière de l’intégration commerciale africaine où Afreximbank continue de jouer un rôle central dans la mise en œuvre de la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf).  L’engagement de la Banque en faveur d’une gestion rigoureuse des risques sous-tend des initiatives essentielles telles que le Système panafricain de paiement et de règlement (PAPSS), qui relie désormais 19 pays et plus de 160 banques commerciales, et l’Africa Trade Gateway (ATG), qui transforme le commerce transfrontalier sur le continent.

L’obtention par Afreximbank de la norme ISO 31000 : 2018 renforce sa position non seulement de première institution de financement du commerce en Afrique, mais aussi de banque de développement compétitive à l’échelle mondiale, attachée aux plus hauts standards de gouvernance institutionnelle et d’excellence opérationnelle.

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

Contact Presse :
Vincent Musumba
Responsable des communications et de la gestion événementielle (Relations presse)
Courriel : press@afreximbank.com

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À propos d’Afreximbank :
La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) est une institution financière multilatérale panafricaine dédiée au financement et à la promotion du commerce intra et extra-africain. Depuis 30 ans, Afreximbank déploie des structures innovantes pour fournir des solutions de financement qui facilitent la transformation de la structure du commerce africain et accélèrent l’industrialisation et le commerce intrarégional, soutenant ainsi l’expansion économique en Afrique. Fervente défenseur de l’Accord sur la Zone de Libre-Échange Continentale Africaine (ZLECAf), Afreximbank a lancé les le Système panafricain de paiement et de règlement (PAPSS) qui a été adopté par l’Union africaine (UA) comme la plateforme de paiement et de règlement devant appuyer la mise en œuvre de la ZLECAf. En collaboration avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf et l’UA, la Banque a mis en place un Fonds d’ajustement de 10 milliards de dollars US pour aider les pays à participer de manière effective à la ZLECAf. À la fin de décembre 2024, le total des actifs et des garanties de la Banque s’élevait à environ 40,1 milliards de dollars US et les fonds de ses actionnaires s’établissaient à 7,2 milliards de dollars US. Afreximbank est notée A par GCR International Scale, Baa2 par Moody’s, AAA par China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI), A- par Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) et BBB par Fitch. Au fil des ans, Afreximbank est devenue un groupe constitué de la Banque, de sa filiale de financement à impact appelée Fonds de développement des exportations en Afrique (FEDA), et de sa filiale de gestion d’assurance, AfrexInsure, (les trois entités forment « le Groupe »). La Banque a son siège social au Caire, en Égypte.

Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez visiter www.Afreximbank.com

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Afreximbank’s Risk Framework Assessed and Registered as Complying with ISO 31000:2018, Reinforcing its Mandate as the Continent’s Leading Trade Finance Institution

Source: APO


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African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) has been registered with the ISO 31000:2018 Risk Management Standard by Certification Partner Global (CPG), marking a significant milestone in the Bank’s institutional evolution and commitment to world-class operational excellence.

Issued in November 2025, this registration follows rigorous independent assessments of Afreximbank’s enterprise risk management framework by external auditors, with zero non-conformities. This achievement places the pan-African multilateral financial institution alongside leading global development banks and financial institutions that have attained this prestigious standard.

ISO 31000:2018, developed by the International Organisation for Standardisation, represents the gold standard in risk management practices globally. It provides comprehensive principles and guidelines covering risk management design, governance, implementation, evaluation, and integration across organisations. The registration validates that Afreximbank’s risk management framework meets international best practices while addressing the unique complexities of operating across 54 African member states and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

Commenting on the registration, Dr Elias Kagumya, Group Managing Director, Risk Management & Chief Risk Officer at Afreximbank said, “Attaining ISO 31000:2018 registration is not just about global recognition; it represents years of deliberate investment in building institutional capacity and embedding a proactive risk culture throughout our organization. As a treaty-based institution with a USD45 billion balance sheet supporting African trade across diverse markets, we recognize that effective risk management is fundamental to delivering our mandate. This feat assures our stakeholders – member states, commercial banks, investors, and the businesses we serve – that we operate with the same risk maturity as the world’s leading financial institutions. Our Risk Management Framework further provides a bank-wide approach to managing risks and protecting the Bank’s goals. By carefully identifying, understanding, and monitoring risks across all areas of its operations, from business strategy to environmental and mandate-related issues, the framework ensures that key programmes, platforms, and financial tools are managed in a stable and well-controlled manner.”

The accreditation aligns with Afreximbank’s Strategic Plan VI priorities – Building a Mature Risk Management Framework – and reflects the Bank’s commitment to continuous improvement in governance, transparency, and operational standards. In 2025, Afreximbank launched a comprehensive benchmarking project of its Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) framework against ISO 31000:2018, working with CPG as the independent accreditation body.

The achievement delivers tangible benefits across Afreximbank’s operations. The ISO 31000:2018 framework strengthens stakeholder confidence by demonstrating the maturity of the Bank’s risk management systems and its commitment to continuous improvement. It enhances entity-wide risk culture by promoting proactive risk identification and mitigation across the Bank’s complex operating environment. The ISO 31000 standard also provides structured guidance for integrating risk considerations into strategy formulation, financial planning, initiatives management, and supporting informed decision-making.

Furthermore, the standard creates efficiency gains through the adoption of formal guidelines for monitoring, reviewing, and improving risk management practices, including enhanced tools for reporting and communicating risks bank-wide. It strengthens the Bank’s overall control environment by validating the effective implementation of sound risk management practices and tools.

Also commenting, Certification Partner Global (CPG), the global accreditation body which issued the certification stated, “Afreximbank’s Risk Management Framework represents a comprehensive and sophisticated approach to enterprise-wide risk governance. The Bank has demonstrated exceptional capability in identifying, assessing, treating, and monitoring risks across its diverse strategic programmes, platforms, and core instruments through a well-structured Risk Universe that addresses nine critical risk categories; from Strategy and Business Risk to Mandate Risk. This framework’s alignment with international best practices, as evidenced in the Afreximbank’s Enterprise Risk Management Framework (Version 1.1, March 2024), reflects the Bank’s commitment to robust risk governance and positions it as a leader in institutional risk management within the global financial services landscape. We are pleased to certify this framework, which provides a solid foundation for Afreximbank to pursue its strategic objectives while maintaining the highest standards of risk oversight and operational resilience.”

The accreditation comes at a pivotal moment for African trade integration, as Afreximbank continues to play a central role in operationalising the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The Bank’s commitment to robust risk management underpins critical initiatives including the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), which now connects 19 countries and over 160 commercial banks, and the Africa Trade Gateway (ATG), which is transforming cross-border commerce across the continent.

Afreximbank’s achievement of ISO 31000:2018 registration reinforces its position not only as Africa’s premier trade finance institution but as a globally competitive development bank committed to the highest standards of institutional governance and operational excellence.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

Media Contact:
Vincent Musumba
Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations)
Email: press@afreximbank.com

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About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

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eThekwini Municipality calls for arts and culture grant-in-aid applications

Source: Government of South Africa

eThekwini Municipality calls for arts and culture grant-in-aid applications

The eThekwini Municipality’s Recreation and Parks Directorate has invited registered and eligible non-profit organisations (NPOs), non-government organisations (NGOs) and non-profit companies (NPCs) in the performing arts and culture sectors to apply for Grant-In-Aid (GIA) funding for the 2025/26 financial year.

The funding programme, aligned with the municipality’s Integrated Development Plan (IDP), is aimed at providing financial and material support to community-based organisations that promote performing arts and cultural programmes, artist development, social cohesion, and economic opportunities within the eThekwini Municipality.

“Areas of focus include music, dance, theatre (drama), comedy, poetry and cultural development,” the municipality said in a statement.

Applicants must meet several compliance requirements, including the submission of a completed application form, a valid tax clearance certificate, latest annual financial statements, certified copies of registration documents and directors’ identity documents, and a detailed organisational profile and project or business plan.

Organisations are also required to provide proof of physical address, bank account details, registration on both the municipal supplier database and the Central Supplier Database, two recent reference letters from the creative sector, and an affidavit confirming that none of the directors are employed by eThekwini Municipality or any other government department.

Application forms and guideline documents are available on the eThekwini Municipality website at www.durban.gov.za, or can be obtained from the Arts and Living Cultures Office at the Stable Theatre, 115 Johannes Nkosi Street, Greyville.

Documents can also be requested via email at Ngiphiwe.Ndlovu@durban.gov.za or Stable.Admin@durban.gov.za.

Completed applications, together with all supporting documentation, must be submitted electronically to Ngiphiwe.Ndlovu@durban.gov.za, or Stable.Admin@durban.gov.za, or hand delivered to the Stable Theatre offices before the closing date of 15 February 2026. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK

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