Category: MIL-OSI

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A FG Gold, a Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) e o Afreximbank atingem o fecho financeiro do financiamento de dívida sénior de 330 milhões de dólares para o Projeto de Ouro de Baomahun

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

A FG Gold Limited (“FG Gold”) (https://FGGoldMining.com/) concluiu com sucesso e concretizou o primeiro levantamento de um pacote de Financiamento de Dívida Sénior de 330 milhões de dólares com a Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) e o African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), assegurando o capital necessário para construir e desenvolver o Projeto de Ouro de Baomahun, a principal mina de ouro em grande escala da Serra Leoa. A transação foi ainda mais reforçada pelo capital mobilizado através do Grupo Trafigura.

Este financiamento sénior, combinado com os 100 milhões de dólares previamente comprometidos pela AFC em investimentos de streaming e mezzanine, eleva o apoio total da Instituição Financeira de Desenvolvimento Africano para 430 milhões de dólares, incluindo a contribuição do Afreximbank de 75 milhões – financiando totalmente a construção do projeto e assegurando o arranque da produção de ouro.

Oliver Tunde Andrews, Presidente Executivo da FG Gold, afirmou: “Estamos muito satisfeitos por termos concluído o financiamento da dívida sénior da Baomahun. Este marco reflete a capacidade de África para financiar e desenvolver os seus próprios ativos mineiros em grande escala, utilizando normas de nível mundial e conhecimentos locais. Com o apoio das principais IFD, Baomahun está posicionado para se tornar um projeto transformador para a Serra Leoa.”

O Presidente da AFC e Diretor Executivo, Samaila Zubairu, afirmou: “Este financiamento demonstra o poder das instituições africanas que trabalham em conjunto para desbloquear o potencial de recursos do continente, ao mesmo tempo que catalisam um crescimento industrial sustentável e liderado por África.”

O Dr. George Elombi, Presidente e Presidente do Conselho de Administração do Afreximbank, acrescentou: “Baomahun exemplifica a inovação e a colaboração africanas e reflete o nosso compromisso de permitir que os países aproveitem os seus recursos naturais para um desenvolvimento e crescimento inclusivos.”

Gonzalo De Olazaval, Diretor Global de Metais e Minerais da Trafigura, comentou: “Estamos satisfeitos por apoiar a primeira mina de ouro comercial em grande escala da Serra Leoa em parceria com a AFC e o Afreximbank.”

Um desenvolvimento pioneiro para a Serra Leoa

Liderado pela Boxmoor Au e pela A2MP, e apoiado por uma equipa técnica predominantemente africana, o projeto de Baomahun apresenta várias “novidades” nacionais em termos de financiamento, engenharia, soluções de energia e parcerias comunitárias. Os parceiros de fornecimento incluem a Lycopodium (EPCM), a Knight Piésold, a CrossBoundary Energy e a Komatsu/PanAfrican Equipment.

Após a entrada em funcionamento, espera-se que Baomahun se torne uma das novas operações de ouro mais importantes de África, produzindo uma média de 150.000 onças por ano ao longo de 12,5 anos de vida útil da mina, com um pico de produção de 201.000 onças.

Prevê-se que a mina crie até 900 postos de trabalho diretos e indiretos, com 90% de emprego local já alcançado, e contribua com cerca de 10% para o PIB da Serra Leoa durante as operações.

O Ministro das Minas e dos Recursos Minerais da Serra Leoa, Julius D. Mattai, afirmou que o projeto demonstra uma forte confiança no setor mineiro do país e reforça o empenho do governo no desenvolvimento responsável e centrado na comunidade.

Investimento comunitário em curso

A FG Gold afetou 1% das receitas brutas a um Fundo de Desenvolvimento Comunitário, que apoia a educação, os cuidados de saúde, a agricultura, as infraestruturas e as empresas. As primeiras iniciativas concluídas incluem um centro comunitário, uma escola primária, um centro de saúde renovado e melhorias na estrada de acesso entre Matotoka e Baomahun.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para FG Gold Limited.

Questões da Comunicação Social:
Nicola Asgill
Diretor de Relações com Investidores, Desenvolvimento Corporativo e Sustentabilidade
FG Gold
Telemóvel: +232 99 503 506
Email: nicola.asgill@fg-gold.com

Sobre a FG Gold Limited:
A FG Gold é uma empresa de prospeção de ouro baseada na construção e operação do Projeto de Prospeção de Ouro de Baomahun, localizado na Serra Leoa. Baomahun é um dos maiores depósitos em desenvolvimento em África e tornar-se-á a primeira mina de ouro comercial em grande escala da Serra Leoa. Após a entrada em funcionamento, prevê-se que o projeto produza uma média de cerca de 150.000 onças de ouro por ano ao longo de 12,5 anos de vida útil da mina, atingindo um máximo de 201.000 onças.
 

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FG Gold, Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), and Afreximbank Achieve Financial Close on US$330 Million Senior Debt Financing for Baomahun Gold Project

Source: APO

FG Gold Limited (“FG Gold”) (https://FGGoldMining.com/) is pleased to announce that it has achieved financial close and the first drawdown on its US$330 million Senior Debt Financing with Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), for its Baomahun Gold Project, marking the development of Sierra Leone’s flagship large-scale commercial gold mine. This milestone unlocks one of the most significant project financing deals in the country’s history and supports Sierra Leone’s ambition to responsibly harness its mineral resources for sustainable economic transformation. The transaction was further strengthened by capital mobilised through Trafigura Group.

The senior facility completes the financing package required to construct and develop the Baomahun Gold Project, complementing AFC’s initial US$100 million investment in gold streaming and mezzanine commitments. This brings the total investment by leading African Development Finance Institutions (“DFIs”) to US$430 million, including Afreximbank’s contribution of US$75 million. This landmark financing secures the full development pathway for Baomahun, enabling FG Gold to accelerate construction of core infrastructure and maintain its momentum toward first gold pour.

A transformational milestone for Sierra Leone and African mining

“This achievement marks a new chapter not only for FG Gold but for Sierra Leone,” said Oliver Tunde Andrews, Founder and Executive Chairman of FG Gold. “The Baomahun Project demonstrates that Africa has the capacity—not just in resources, but in financing sophistication, technical capability, and institutional collaboration—to develop large-scale, globally competitive mining assets. We are delighted with our constructive ongoing collaboration and partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone and the local community, as well as the backing of Africa’s leading DFIs in bringing this transformative project to life.” According to Andrews, “The anchor investment provided by AFC was instrumental in crowding in additional financiers and establishing the confidence needed to mobilise further capital for the project.”

AFC and Afreximbank champion African resource development

Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), commented: “AFC is proud to have led and structured the Baomahun Gold Project, a development that embodies our mission to catalyse sustainable, African-led industrial growth. This transaction demonstrates what can be achieved when African institutions collaborate to unlock the value of our continent’s resources. Baomahun will not only generate long-term economic benefits for Sierra Leone but also establish a benchmark for responsible, world-class mining development across Africa.”

Dr. George Elombi, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, noted, “Afreximbank is delighted to partner on a project that has economic significance for Sierra Leone and the wider continent. Our financing reflects a commitment to supporting value creation within Africa by enabling sovereigns and private developers to harness their natural resources for domestic wealth creation and inclusive growth and development. The Baomahun Gold Project stands as a powerful example of African capability, innovation, and collaboration.”

Gonzalo De Olazaval, Global Head of Metals and Mineral at Trafigura added, “We are pleased to support Sierra Leone’s first large-scale commercial gold mine in Partnership with AFC and Afreximbank. Our participation in this debt underscores our growing footprint in gold markets, complemented by the global reach and scale of our broader metals business.”

A project defined by African capability and global standards

The Baomahun Gold Project is being developed through the leadership of Boxmoor Au and the Africa Minerals and Metals Processing Platform (A2MP), supported by a predominantly African team and leading industry partners, including Lycopodium (EPCM), Knight Piésold, CrossBoundary Energy, and Komatsu/PanAfrican Equipment.

Recognised as one of Sierra Leone’s most pioneering mining developments, Baomahun introduces multiple national “firsts” across financing, engineering, power solutions, and community partnership—establishing a scalable model for structuring and delivering high-impact mining projects across Africa.

Driving economic growth and shared prosperity

FG Gold is already a major local employer, with 90% of its workforce comprised of Sierra Leoneans. During operations, the mine is expected to support up to 900 direct and indirect jobs, contribute approximately 10% of national GDP, and stimulate substantial local supply chain growth.

According to the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Sierra Leone, the Honourable Julius D. Mattai, “The Baomahun Gold Project represents a milestone for Sierra Leone’s mining sector and a clear signal of the confidence that respected African institutions place in our investment environment. This financing marks a new era of responsible, community-oriented mineral development. We welcome FG Gold’s commitment to local participation, skills development, and shared prosperity, and we look forward to the transformational impact Baomahun will deliver for generations to come.”

Community development already underway

FG Gold has committed 1% of gross revenues to a Community Development Fund supporting education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and social enterprise in project-affected communities. Early initiatives include the Baomahun Community Centre, St. Joseph Bakhita Primary School, the renovated Baomahun Health Centre, and upgrades to the 66 km Matotoka–Baomahun access road.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of FG Gold Limited.

Media Enquiries:
Nicola Asgill
Corporate Development, Sustainability & Investor Relations Director
FG Gold
Mobile: +232 99 503 506
Email: nicola.asgill@fg-gold.com

Yewande Thorpe
Communications
Africa Finance Corporation
Mobile: +234 1 279 9654
Email: yewande.thorpe@africafc.org

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

About FG Gold Limited:
FG Gold is a gold development company based focused on constructing and operating the Baomahun Gold Project located in Sierra Leone. Baomahun is one of the largest deposits under development in Africa and will become Sierra Leone’s premier large scale commercial gold mine. Upon operations, the Project is expected to deliver an average annual gold production of ~150,000 ounces per year over a 12.5-year mine life peaking at 201,000 ounces.

About Africa Finance Corporation:
AFC was established in 2007 to be the catalyst for pragmatic infrastructure and industrial investments across Africa. AFC’s approach combines specialist industry expertise with a focus on financial and technical advisory, project structuring, project development, and risk capital to address Africa’s infrastructure development needs and drive sustainable economic growth.

Eighteen years on, AFC has developed a track record as the partner of choice in Africa for investing and delivering on instrumental, high-quality infrastructure assets that provide essential services in the core infrastructure sectors of power, natural resources, heavy industry, transport, and telecommunications. AFC has 47 member countries and has invested over US$15 billion in 36 African countries since its inception.

About African Export-Import Bank:
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), 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.

About Fundo Soberano de Angola:
The Angola Sovereign Wealth Fund (FSDEA) is established to promote the sustainable social and economic development of Angola by generating long-term wealth for the Angolan people through prudent management of national resources, encompassing investments across a wide range of financial instruments and asset classes, both domestically and internationally, to secure competitive returns, preserve capital, and catalyse economic diversification within Angola’s productive sectors.

About Boxmoor Au:
Boxmoor Au is an African-led precious metals company dedicated to building the next generation of high-performing, responsible mining operations across the continent. As a subsidiary of the Boxmoor Group, a project development and investment platform, founded in 2021 by Mr Oliver Tunde Andrews, Boxmoor Au leverages best-in-class technical, financial, and operational expertise to unlock Africa’s mineral potential.

The Boxmoor Group brings together a powerful ecosystem, including an African-based financial advisory firm and civil engineering contractor enabling value creation from project origination through to delivery. This integrated capability strengthens the Group’s mission to help reduce Africa’s infrastructure deficit while driving localised benefaction.

Boxmoor Au’s dedicated management team has 150+ years of combined experience in the natural resources and infrastructure sectors within Africa. The team is committed to creating long term value within the precious metals industry through strategic investments that maximise Africa’s economic potential and promote sustainable resource development and operations.

Driven by its mission to become a leading intermediate African gold producer, Boxmoor Au is focused on developing and operating mines to deliver enduring benefits to local communities, nations and key stakeholders.

About A2MP Investments:
Africa Minerals and Metals Processing Platform (A2MP) is a pan-African industrial platform dedicated to responsible mining and value-added processing and transformation – unlocking the full potential of Africa’s vast mineral wealth and driving a new era of industrial growth across the continent.

A2MP believes shifting from raw material exports to local processing and transformation will contribute to strengthening Africa’s industrial base, reduce its dependence on imports, and drive economic growth to position Africa as a global leader.

A2MP’s operations span 11 countries, including 9 in Africa, with a portfolio of 12 mineral assets and 4 state-of-the-art processing facilities. Our portfolio includes FG Gold, Canyon Resources, Nouvelle Gabon Mining, Alpha Centauri Mining, Fura Gems, among others. At the core of A2MP’s mission is impact, with an aim to drive over US$5 billion in annual GDP impact and create more than 11,000 jobs.

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Malawi advances efforts to finalize its Health Labour Market Analysis for Evidence-based Health Workforce Planning and Development

Source: APO


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Achieving SGD3, Universal Health Coverage by 2030, and health security and PHC-oriented and resilient health systems hinges on the sufficient capacity of a well-trained and motivated health workforce to provide the essential health services at all levels of care. 

The Ministry of Health, with technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO), is taking giant steps towards finalizing the comprehensive national Health Labour Market Analysis (HLMA). The current draft HLMA report needs to be standardized with other supported countries, and for results need to inform high-level multisectoral policy dialogue to improve the HRH situation and prioritization in Malawi. 

An HLMA is an approach to using a systematic economic framework to understand the health workforce by examining the interaction and mismatches between the supply of health workers, the demand for health workers, the population’s health needs, and the budget space for health workers’ feasibility and impact of different policy options. This initiative marks a major step toward strengthening health workforce governance, improving evidence-based decision‑making, and advancing Malawi’s progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

Within its Health Sector Strategic Plan 2023-2030, Malawi has made significant investments in health workforce education, recruitment, performance management, professional development, and its Human Resources Information System. The consistent and positive national trend of growth in the health workforce in Malawi, with the total number of health workers increasing from 34,287 in 2019 to 47,555 in 2024, representing a significant 38.7% increase over the six years.  

Despite these gains, critical staffing gaps remain across health facilities. To fully deliver the essential health package, the country needs to address the high vacancy rates of 40% for Nurse/Midwife Technicians and significant shortages for Medical Officers/Specialists (32%) and Medical Assistants (25%). To address these gaps, the Ministry of Health is working with WHO to complete the HLMA. The analysis will examine the interplay between political and economic factors, training capacity, labour supply and demand, and population health needs. The resulting evidence will guide long‑term policy options for health workforce development, employment, and management.

With funding from the United Kingdom Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC), WHO Africa Region supported a reorientation of a multisectoral team on the HLMA, and the “Epidemiology-based health workforce needs assessment and analysis” using the WHO AFRO HLMA Support Tool. The participants systematically mined and analyzed Malawi’s health workforce data across all domains of the Health Labour Market framework. 

Among the outputs are preliminary estimates of the health workforce requirements to address the epidemiological burden of disease and service delivery needs of Malawians. The comprehensive HLMA report with evidence-based policy questions will facilitate a multisectoral technical dialogue to build national cross-sectoral consensus on policy directions for health workforce development, employment, and management in Malawi. 

“The Health Labour Market Analysis will give Malawi a credible evidence base to better understand our workforce dynamics and plan more effectively,” said Mr Duff Msukwa [Director of Human Resources for Health, Ministry of Health. “By generating evidence-based insights, we can better align our health workforce with the needs of our population, ensuring equitable access to quality care and advancing our Health Sector Strategic Plan III goals.”

A multi-sectoral team—including representatives from government ministries, Nurses and Midwives Council, Medical Council, and Christian Health Association of Malawi, health training institutions, and health workers across 72 occupations—participated in the HLMA data minging and health workforce needs assessment held from 10th to 21st November 2025. 

“WHO is proud to be supporting Malawi in this comprehensive Health Labour Market Analysis, which will provide the data-driven foundation for sustainable workforce planning and to improve the quality of health services at all levels,” said Dr Neema Rusibamayila Kimambo, WHO Representative to Malawi. “This initiative not only tackles immediate gaps but also paves the way for long-term investments in health workers, helping Malawi move closer to Universal Health Coverage and a stronger and resilient health system.”

With persistent workforce pressures and rising demand for health services, including health emergencies, the completion of the HLMA will provide Malawi with contextual evidence to align health workforce policies with real population needs. By grounding planning in evidence, Malawi reinforces its commitment to building a resilient and equitable health system capable of delivering UHC and health security.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Malawi.

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United Arab Emirates (UAE) leaders congratulate President of Mauritania on Independence Day

Source: APO


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President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent a message of congratulations to President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania on the occasion of his country’s Independence Day.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, dispatched similar messages to President Ghazouani and to the country’s Prime Minister El Moctar Ould Djay.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Arab Emirates, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Liquid C2 expands Google Cloud access in Africa with Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven distribution programme, Liquid G

Source: APO

Liquid C2, a business of Cassava Technologies, a global technology leader of African heritage, has announced the launch of its AI-powered Google Cloud distribution programme. Known as Liquid G, the programme is designed to accelerate cloud adoption and growth for African resellers and enterprises.

Delivered through Cloudmania, Liquid G builds on the company’s long-standing collaboration with Google Cloud and marks a significant step in expanding access to advanced cloud technologies across the continent.

“Cloud adoption in Africa is accelerating, and resellers need solutions that are not only accessible but also intelligent and adaptive,” said Oswald Jumira, chief executive officer of Liquid C2. “Liquid G redefines how African resellers engage with Google Cloud, making the process smarter, faster, and more rewarding. Our goal is to empower local businesses to harness cloud innovation in ways that directly impact productivity and growth, ensuring that more Africans have access to the tools needed to thrive in the digital economy.”

Unlike traditional distributors, Liquid G focuses on AI-enabled support that streamlines business operations for resellers, while showcasing best-in-class Google Cloud infrastructure, AI, and data analytics solutions that are in increasing demand on the African continent. In addition, Liquid G streamlines the reseller journey by having a single provider with an integrated marketplace for procurement of services and billing in local currency. Through this programme, resellers can strengthen customer relationships, grow multi-cloud margins, and expand their service portfolios with minimal complexity. By integrating AI into every step from onboarding to product discovery, it delivers a differentiated experience that aligns with the evolving needs of African digital businesses.

“We are excited to see Liquid C2 launch the Liquid G program. This initiative represents a significant step forward in making Google Cloud’s powerful infrastructure, AI, and data analytics solutions more accessible to businesses across Africa,” said Simon Aldous, Director, Channel Sales, UKI and SSA, Google Cloud. “Our long-standing collaboration with Liquid C2 continues to drive cloud adoption, and Liquid G’s focus on streamlining the reseller journey will undoubtedly empower local enterprises to innovate and thrive in the digital economy.”

The launch of this programme positions Liquid C2 as one of Africa’s most comprehensive multi-cloud service providers. It also reinforces the company’s aim of leveraging collaborations to make world-class cloud services more accessible, aligned with its purpose of empowering businesses to thrive through digital solutions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

About Liquid C2:
Liquid C2, a business of Cassava Technologies, delivers cutting-edge cloud and cybersecurity services and solutions. Committed to facilitating digital transformation, Liquid C2 is positioned to provide comprehensive solutions tailored to meet the evolving demands of the digital era by empowering businesses to navigate the complexities of the modern digital landscape securely. The company’s offerings span cloud solutions that enhance accessibility and scalability, and robust cybersecurity services to safeguard sensitive data and elevate security and compliance posture to ensure businesses remain seamlessly connected and protected. https://LiquidC2.com/ 

About Cloudmania:
Launched by Liquid C2 in 2021, Cloudmania is a Cloud Services and Solutions provider extending convenience, diversity, and a range of services. The company has opened its doors to numerous countries across the African continent, including South Africa, Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Nigeria, Ghana, Mauritius, Ethiopia, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, Cameroon, Botswana, and the Democratic Republic of Congo serving the mission to bring about digital disruption using the power of the cloud. Cloudmania offers cutting-edge solutions to provide a full suite of partner-focused products and services. The organisation was awarded a Microsoft Partner of the Year in Ethiopia in 2022 and in Côte d’Ivoire in 2023. For more information https://Cloudmania.Africa/ 

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Lutte Contre Les Violences Basées Sur Le Genre : Le Gouvernement Investit Dans L’autonomisation Des Femmes

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


On ne le souligne pas souvent mais le déni de ressources fait partie des violences basées sur le genre. Aussi, l’autonomisation des femmes a été érigée en priorité par le gouvernement ivoirien qui a mis en place différents programmes et initiatives pour assurer leur plein épanouissement.

« Tous unis contre les violences numériques et les féminicides : prévenir, protéger, dénoncer ». C’est autour de ce thème que la Côte d’Ivoire a lancé le 25 novembre, la 35e édition des 16 jours d’activisme contre les violences basées sur le genre. Les Vbg, il faut le rappeler comprennent six types : le viol, l’agression physique, l’agression sexuelle dont les mutilations génitales féminines (MGF), le mariage forcé, le déni de ressources et la maltraitance psychologique et émotionnelle (cyber harcèlement).

Le gouvernement ivoirien a décrété une tolérance zéro contre ces différents types de violences dont le déni de ressources. Sur ce volet, plusieurs initiatives et programmes sont mis en œuvre pour améliorer la situation des femmes. C’est dans cette dynamique que le ministère de la Femme, de la Famille et de l’Enfant a lancé le 19 septembre 2025 le programme de Développement des initiatives et des capacités économiques féminines en vue de leur autonomisation (DICEFA). Il est mis en œuvre sur la période 2025-2030. Avec un montant de 28,5 milliards de FCFA, le programme repose sur quatre grandes composantes : la construction et l’équipement de 20 centres modernes de transformation, l’apport technologique à la chaîne de valeur vivrière, l’accélération des entreprises agricoles féminines, et un fonds de roulement et de financement des entreprises. La phase pilote concerne 10 régions de la Côte d’Ivoire.

Le programme DICEFA ambitionne de créer 200 entreprises féminines et de soutenir 10 500 coopératives dans les zones rurales et périurbaines. En intégrant des solutions digitales et technologiques, le programme vise à améliorer la production, la transformation et la commercialisation.

Au sein du ministère, existe également le Projet de Gestion Novatrice du Fonds National Femme et Développement (PGNFND) qui appuie les femmes pour la réalisation d’activités génératrices de revenus. De 2020 à 2024, ce sont 4148 femmes qui ont bénéficié de ce projet. Le montant global mis à leur disposition est de 946 millions. Avec un taux de recouvrement qui s’élève à 95,7%.

Parmi les projets innovants du ministère, on peut aussi citer le programme Usine des femmes de Côte d’Ivoire démarré en 2020. Ce programme consiste en la création d’usines dans les zones où les femmes sont réunies en coopérative pour transformer leurs produits pour une meilleure commercialisation et surtout la réduction de la perte post récolte. Le coût initial du projet Usifem est de 4,9 milliards de FCFA.

En plus des actions du ministère de la Femme, il y a le programme des Filets sociaux productifs géré par le ministère de la Cohésion nationale, de la Solidarité et de la Lutte contre la pauvreté. Dans les 31 régions du pays, le programme dont de nombreuses bénéficiaires sont des femmes a permis de sortir des milliers de familles de la pauvreté.

Selon le bilan gouvernemental 2011-2025, ce sont 457 000 ménages qui ont bénéficié de transferts monétaires pour un montant total de 140, 179 milliards de FCFA de 2017 à 2024.

En matière d’autonomisation des femmes, il y a aussi le Fonds d’Appui aux Femmes de Côte d’Ivoire (FAFCI), mis en place par la Première Dame Dominique Ouattara. Ce fonds créé en 2012 a permis à fin 2024 d’autonomiser plus de 420 000 femmes et impacter plus de 2 000 000 de personnes.

Ainsi, de l’engagement à la promotion, à la protection, à l’autonomisation des femmes, le gouvernement est depuis dans l’action. Ces efforts participent à bâtir une Côte d’Ivoire plus équitable, plus solidaire et plus prospère. Pour une nation plus forte.

Distribué par APO Group pour Portail Officiel du Gouvernement de Côte d’Ivoire.

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La demande africaine en produits raffinés devrait exploser d’ici 2050 (Par NJ Ayuk)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Par NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie (https://EnergyChamber.org/).

L’Afrique se trouve à un tournant dans la dynamique énergétique mondiale, à un moment charnière où le continent peut tirer parti de ses abondantes ressources en combustibles fossiles pour assurer un développement équitable. Pour garantir ce résultat, les parties prenantes doivent concentrer leurs investissements sur des domaines clés tels que les capacités de raffinage, les réseaux commerciaux et l’adoption de carburants plus propres si l’Afrique veut être prête pour les projections à l’horizon 2050 présentées dans le rapport prospectif 2026 de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org/), intitulé « The State of African Energy » (L’état de l’énergie en Afrique).

Les besoins de l’Afrique en produits raffinés devraient augmenter fortement, sous l’effet des forces démographiques et économiques. Selon notre rapport, la demande africaine en produits raffinés devrait passer d’environ 4 millions de barils par jour (bbl/j) en 2024 à plus de 6 millions de bbl/j d’ici 2050.

Alors que de nombreuses économies avancées s’efforcent de réduire leur dépendance au pétrole et au gaz, l’Afrique est la prochaine à bénéficier de ses propres ressources, et elle en a tout à fait le droit, tout comme les pays développés l’ont déjà fait. Cette situation met en évidence à la fois les opportunités en matière de sécurité énergétique et les défis à relever en matière de développement des infrastructures.

Une trajectoire unique

Alors que de nombreuses autres régions du monde devraient suivre la même voie que l’Europe et l’Amérique du Nord vers des alternatives vertes dans les années à venir, la demande africaine en pétrole ne montre aucun signe de ralentissement dans un avenir proche. Cependant, la trajectoire de l’Afrique est nettement différente : la consommation par habitant reste la plus faible au monde, en particulier dans les pays d’Afrique subsaharienne, ce qui laisse une marge de progression importante à mesure que la population et le PIB augmentent.

Selon les prévisions, la population du continent pourrait augmenter de plus de 930 millions de personnes, pour atteindre près de 2,4 milliards d’ici 2050. Cela représenterait 25 % de la population mondiale et 63 % de la croissance démographique mondiale d’ici là.

Les projections économiques sont tout aussi importantes, le PIB de l’Afrique en 2050 devant presque tripler par rapport à son niveau actuel pour atteindre environ 7 800 milliards de dollars, après avoir connu un taux de croissance annuel composé (TCAC) de 3,8 à 3,9 % au cours des prochaines décennies. Les marchés plus petits et moins développés seront les moteurs de cette croissance, amplifiant la demande pour les activités à forte intensité énergétique.

Actuellement, bien qu’elle représente 18 % de la population mondiale, l’Afrique consomme moins de 5 % des produits pétroliers mondiaux et ne contribue qu’à hauteur de 3 % au PIB mondial.

Cette disparité indique un potentiel inexploité.

Comme le souligne le rapport Outlook 2026, la demande africaine en pétrole continuera de croître jusqu’en 2050 et au-delà, alimentée par la croissance démographique, l’industrialisation et l’urbanisation. En outre, alors que la demande en pétrole par habitant en Afrique subsaharienne est la plus faible au monde, il existe un besoin urgent d’augmenter l’approvisionnement en produits pétroliers et gaziers, positionnant la région comme un moteur de croissance à long terme.

Essence : la croissance mondiale sera africaine

L’Afrique est en passe de devenir le principal moteur de la croissance mondiale de la demande d’essence à long terme, compensant ainsi le déclin observé en Chine et dans les pays membres de l’Organisation de coopération et de développement économiques (OCDE). Notre rapport prévoit que la consommation d’essence en Afrique dépassera 2,2 millions de barils par jour d’ici 2050, le Nigeria et les marchés émergents étant en tête.

Le Nigeria domine déjà la demande continentale d’essence, mais sa consommation par habitant reste relativement faible. Sur les marchés établis comme l’Algérie, le Maroc, l’Égypte et l’Afrique du Sud, la demande devrait stagner au début des années 2040 en raison de l’amélioration globale de l’économie de carburant, de l’essor des véhicules au gaz naturel comprimé (GNC) et au gaz de pétrole liquéfié (GPL) en Égypte et en Algérie, et de l’adoption des véhicules électriques (VE) en Afrique du Sud.

Notre rapport sur les perspectives pour 2026, qui met l’accent sur le secteur des transports, révèle que les besoins globaux en essence du continent continueront d’augmenter au cours des 25 prochaines années, car la prévalence des flottes de véhicules légers à essence ne devrait pas diminuer. Bien que les motorisations alternatives telles que les VE pénètrent le marché, leur progression sera lente en raison de l’insuffisance de l’approvisionnement en électricité et de la rareté des infrastructures de recharge. L’essence restera donc le pilier de la mobilité personnelle et commerciale, en particulier dans les régions moins développées où l’activité économique nécessite le transport routier.

Diesel/gazole : alimenter l’expansion industrielle et extractive

Le diesel/gazole connaîtra une croissance encore plus prononcée, avec une consommation qui devrait augmenter d’environ 880 000 barils par jour d’ici 2050, soit près de 50 % par rapport aux niveaux actuels, pour atteindre un peu moins de 2,7 millions de barils par jour. Cela positionne l’Afrique comme la région à la plus forte croissance pour ce produit, dépassant l’Amérique latine.

Au-delà du transport routier, la demande sera stimulée par les industries extractives. Les investissements dans les minéraux essentiels qui soutiennent la transition énergétique (par exemple, le lithium, le cobalt et le nickel) s’accélèrent en Afrique centrale et australe, riche en minéraux. Une grande partie de la croissance de la demande de diesel/gazole proviendra de pays comme l’Angola, la République démocratique du Congo (RDC), la Zambie et le Zimbabwe. Le développement de la région du Copperbelt entre la Zambie et la RDC, avec des initiatives telles que le projet du corridor de Lobito, intensifiera les besoins en diesel pour les opérations minières et la production d’électricité.

Le transport routier privé et commercial contribuera également à cette croissance, car la croissance démographique et du PIB nécessitera une augmentation du transport de marchandises en général. Contrairement à l’essence, la polyvalence du diesel dans les applications lourdes garantira une demande soutenue, même si des alternatives plus propres apparaissent dans d’autres secteurs.

Carburants pour l’aviation : reprise et ascension à long terme

La demande de carburant pour avions et de kérosène est sur le point de connaître une forte reprise en Afrique, avec des prévisions qui dépasseront les niveaux d’avant la COVID en 2025. Les voyages aériens interrégionaux et intra-régionaux reprennent de la vigueur, la consommation devant dépasser 280 000 barils par jour cette année et augmenter de 65 % d’ici 2050, pour atteindre un taux de 465 000 barils par jour.

Outre l’expansion démographique, cette croissance sera alimentée par le tourisme, les voyages d’affaires, la croissance progressive de la classe moyenne urbaine et les investissements dans les infrastructures. Des projets tels que le nouvel aéroport éthiopien au sud-est d’Addis-Abeba et la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECA) amélioreront la connectivité, augmentant ainsi le trafic aérien de passagers et le transport de marchandises.

Une solution de cuisson plus propre au potentiel inexploité

Dans un contexte de demande croissante de produits raffinés, le GPL utilisé comme combustible de cuisson représente une opportunité exceptionnelle pour une énergie plus propre. Notre rapport « Perspectives 2026 » identifie le GPL comme l’alternative la plus abondante et la plus pratique à la biomasse traditionnelle et au charbon pour les ménages africains, car il offre des avantages pour la santé et l’environnement et permet de réduire les émissions.

Aujourd’hui, plus de 900 millions d’Africains n’ont pas accès à des solutions de cuisson propres et dépendent du bois, du fumier, du charbon ou du pétrole lampant, des combustibles qui causent une pollution intérieure toxique, la déforestation et des émissions élevées de gaz à effet de serre. Le passage au GPL permettrait de réduire les particules de 98 % et de sauver 1,2 million d’hectares de forêt par an (soit un quart de la déforestation mondiale). Plus important encore, cela permettrait également de réduire le nombre de décès et la prévalence des problèmes de santé dévastateurs causés par ces particules. Le passage à la cuisson au GPL permettrait également de réduire les émissions de carbone noir de 117 millions de tonnes d’équivalent CO2 par an. Au total, les réductions de CO2 pourraient atteindre 279 millions de tonnes par an, un montant comparable aux émissions totales de pays de taille moyenne comme Taïwan ou la Malaisie.

Malgré ces avantages, l’utilisation du GPL reste faible, avec moins de 20 millions de tonnes par an. Notre rapport, basé sur les données de S&P Global Commodity Insights de juin 2025, ne prévoit qu’une croissance modeste, le Nigeria, le Maroc, l’Égypte, l’Afrique du Sud, l’Algérie et d’autres pays contribuant à une légère augmentation à l’approche de 2050.

Obstacles et perspectives d’avenir

Les projections modestes de notre rapport peuvent être attribuées à des obstacles persistants en matière de politique et d’infrastructure. Les cadres réglementaires, les plans de financement à la consommation et les réseaux de distribution dans les zones rurales et à faibles revenus doivent tous être développés. Sans investissements ciblés, la demande restera faible.

Le potentiel de croissance est toutefois important. Des pays comme le Kenya, le Nigeria et la Côte d’Ivoire démontrent qu’avec des politiques favorables, l’adoption du GPL peut s’accélérer. Comme le suggère notre rapport, si la demande latente de GPL était libérée, la consommation prévue en 2050 pourrait plus que doubler par rapport aux prévisions actuelles.

La forte augmentation de la demande africaine en produits raffinés est une question multiforme qui nécessitera une planification proactive. Plus de 20 milliards de dollars d’investissements dans les infrastructures en aval seront nécessaires d’ici 2050 pour gérer les importations et la distribution. Les projets phares tels que la raffinerie Dangote au Nigeria sont essentiels, mais insuffisants à eux seuls, et les initiatives de moindre envergure que nous observons en Angola et en Ouganda ne permettront pas de combler le fossé.

Comme l’illustre notre rapport Outlook 2026, l’avenir énergétique de l’Afrique est marqué par une croissance spectaculaire. Pour garantir que cet avenir soit prospère et réponde aux besoins croissants de tous les Africains, les décideurs politiques, les investisseurs et les partenaires internationaux doivent donner la priorité à des échanges commerciaux efficaces, au raffinage local et à la transition vers des combustibles tels que le GPL afin de maximiser la valeur pour les 2,4 milliards d’habitants du continent d’ici le milieu du siècle.

Le rapport « The State of African Energy: 2026 Outlook Report » (État de l’énergie en Afrique : rapport sur les perspectives pour 2026) est disponible en téléchargement. Rendez-vous sur https://apo-opa.co/3MuIyV8 pour demander votre exemplaire.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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SA hosts Earthquake Response Exercise 2025 in Gqeberha

Source: Government of South Africa

The Government of South Africa, through the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC), will host the Africa, Europe, and Middle East (AEME) Earthquake Response Exercise (ERE) 2025 this week.

The event will take place at Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha from 1 to 5 December 2025. 

According to the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), this exercise is part of the global programme of the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG). 

This initiative is mandated by United Nations General Assembly Resolution 57/150, which aims to strengthen international cooperation and coordination for Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) in response to major disasters.

The 2025 event will bring together national responders, provincial and municipal role players, international USAR teams, Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs), United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) experts, and humanitarian partners from across the AEME region.

Under the leadership of CoGTA Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa, the ERE serves as South Africa’s largest disaster readiness simulation to date. 

This event marks a significant milestone in enhancing the country’s position as a continental hub for emergency response.

According to the department, the ERE scheduled for 2025 will simulate a large-scale earthquake impacting a densely populated urban area. 

This scenario will also involve cascading hazards, such as flooding, hazardous material incidents, and disruptions to essential services.

This multi-hazard scenario will test South Africa’s ability to coordinate complex operations involving the USAR, flood and water rescue, emergency medical response, evacuation and shelter management, humanitarian relief operations, and inter-agency communication and strategic coordination. 

“The exercise will also validate national protocols for requesting, receiving, and coordinating international support in a major disaster. 

“Hosting the AEME Earthquake Response Exercise highlights South Africa’s commitment to global disaster cooperation and our responsibility to protect lives. This exercise strengthens our readiness, sharpens our coordination systems, and positions our country as a leader in regional and international emergency response,” said Hlabisa. 

The gathering will also enhance South Africa’s commitment to strengthening the national disaster management framework, improving readiness across all levels of government, and fostering collaboration with international partners. 

This initiative aims to enhance coordination among national, provincial, and municipal disaster management centres, while also strengthening interoperability among police, fire services, emergency medical services (EMS), defence forces, and humanitarian organisations. 

In addition, it seeks to promote regional cooperation with partners in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and implement INSARAG and UNDAC methodologies in a real-time national context.

The initiative will also focus on developing a common operating picture for large-scale disaster response and building practical skills through workshops, tabletop exercises, and field simulations. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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National Treasury publishes operating budgets for municipalities

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, December 1, 2025

The National Treasury has published the operating and capital budgets of municipalities as adopted by their respective councils to enable communities to hold their municipal councils to account.

“These budgets give an overview of expected revenue and expenditure trends in Local Government over the next three years, referred to as the 2025/26 Medium Term Revenue and Expenditure Framework (MTREF),” National Treasury said on Monday.

The operating and capital budgets of municipalities are available on National Treasury’s website.The revenue and expenditure numbers are aggregated from the annual budgets that municipal managers are legally required to submit to the National Treasury and the relevant Provincial Treasury.

The information is  also used by the National Treasury as the basis for the In-Year Management, Monitoring and Reporting  System for Local Government (IYM). 

The Section 71 reports published by the National Treasury provide a quarterly account of actual revenue collection and spending by municipalities against their budgeted figures.

All this information is uploaded into the Municipal Money open Local Government data portal and can be accessed as follows: www.municipalmoney.gov.za .

Highlights include:

•    The aggregated budgeted revenue for 2025/26 is R675.8 billion, which is expected to increase to R712.6 billion in 2026/27, and R753.5 billion in 2027/28.
•    Total municipal expenditure in 2025/26 is estimated to be R698.0 billion, increasing to R728.3 billion in 2026/27, and R764 billion in 2027/28. Total expenditure for 2025/26 is 7.4 % higher than the adopted budget for 2024/25 financial year.
•    It is notable that aggregate municipalities will realise operating deficits on the operating budgets in the 2025/26 financial year as the total operating expenditure increases at a higher rate than the revenue projections. This is an indication that municipalities are spending beyond their means and a first sign of financial challenges. However, the situation is projected to improve in the outer years of the 2025/26 MTREF as the operating deficit is projected to reduce.
•    A net surplus of R8.5 billion is projected in the 2025/26 financial year after considering revenue from external loans and internally generated funds. This is an improvement compared to a deficit of R1.9 billion in the 2024/25 adjusted budget and will result in net surpluses of R12.3 billion in 2026/27 and R16.7 billion in 2027/28.
•    The main cost drivers are employee related costs and bulk purchases, representing 27.0 % and 35.0% of the operating expenditure respectively. Municipalities are experiencing multiple impacts of the high electricity and water tariff increases; lower sales levels owing to changes in consumption patterns and increased bad debt as a result of affordability pressures.
•    Capital expenditure increased by 1.9 % to R78.9 billion in 2025/26 compared to the original budget for the 2024/25 financial year. The percentage of capital expenditure, to total expenditure is declining over the MTREF period. Capital expenditure represented 11.3% of the total expenditure in 2025/26 and is projected to decrease to 10.5% in 2024/25 and further decrease to 9.8 % in 2027/28.
•    Trading services represent 52.1% of the total capital expenditure of R78.9 billion in 2025/26; increases to 54.7% in 2026/27 and to 56.7% in 2027/28.
•    The 2025/26 capital expenditure budget reflects a R45.7 billion investment in new infrastructure which is 57.9% of the total aggregated capital budget. Investment in the renewal and upgrading of existing assets is much lower at R14.9 billion (18.8 %) and R18.4 billion (23.3%) of the total capital budget respectively; and
•    reporting on operational repairs and maintenance figures has been institutionalised as part of Section 71 in-year reporting. Municipalities allocated R38.3 billion to repairs and maintenance of assets in 2025/26. This will increase to R40.6 billion in 2026/27 and to R42.7 billion in 2027/28.

–SAnews.gov.za

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Gina urges stronger IP protection for grassroots innovators

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Nomalungelo Gina, has urged South Africa to strengthen intellectual property (IP) awareness and protection for grassroots innovators, warning that many township and rural entrepreneurs continue to lose ownership of their ideas due to limited IP knowledge.

Speaking at the 17th World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) South Africa Summer School on Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer in Durban, Gina referenced the well-known case of “Please Call Me” inventor Nkosana Makate as both “inspirational and cautionary”, saying it highlights the risks faced by innovators who fail to secure their ideas early.

She cautioned that many young innovators and researchers still lose out on significant economic opportunities because they are not empowered to protect their concepts. 

The Deputy Minister said programmes such as the WIPO Summer School are helping to bridge this gap by expanding access to IP education and equipping emerging innovators to benefit from their own work.

Gina also linked her message to last week’s Grassroots Innovation Awards in Pretoria, noting that although community-based innovators continue to produce valuable ideas, many still lack the means to protect or commercialise them. She said government has a responsibility to ensure township and rural communities do not lose ownership due to inadequate access to IP education.

Highlighting the WIPO Summer School as a flagship capacity-building initiative, Gina said South Africa is proud to be one of the few global hosts of the programme, which is developing a growing pool of IP managers, technology transfer specialists and innovation leaders across the continent. 

She said that investments in IP management – led by the National IP Management Office – are already resulting in increased disclosures, patents, licences and spin-off companies at universities and science councils.

The Deputy Minister also underscored the importance of protecting Indigenous Knowledge Systems, emphasising that traditional herbs, medicines and heritage assets must be formally recognised and owned by the communities that created them.

Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), which is hosting this year’s programme, said the event reinforces its commitment to strengthening research and innovation capabilities. 

MUT’s Technology Transfer and Innovation Deputy Director, Dr Mandla Hlongwane, said hosting the internationally recognised programme positions the university as a contributor to national and continental knowledge economies.

The 2025 WIPO Summer School, which began on 24 November, will conclude on Friday, 5 December. – SAnews.gov.za