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BMA processes 168 Mozambican nationals for repatriation

Source: Government of South Africa

BMA processes 168 Mozambican nationals for repatriation

The Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, confirmed the successful processing and repatriation of a group of 168 Mozambican nationals through the Lebombo Port of Entry.

The repatriation operation was facilitated by the Embassy of the Republic of Mozambique in South Africa, which transported the individuals from Mossel Bay to the Lebombo Port of Entry using three buses. 

The group arrived at the port at approximately 8:30 pm on Sunday, and the operation was concluded at midnight. 

A total of 168 Mozambican nationals and one South African citizen arrived at the port for processing.  

Of the Mozambican nationals processed, 141 individuals, comprising 97 males and 44 females, were undocumented and were accordingly deported in terms of the Immigration Act. 

A further eight Mozambican nationals had valid passports and were processed for lawful departure. The group also included 19 minors. 

In line with established child protection protocols, all minors underwent the necessary processes in collaboration with the Department of Social Development to ensure that their best interests were safeguarded throughout the repatriation process.

The South African citizen was refused departure after indicating an intention to accompany the group to visit family in the Republic of Mozambique without following the appropriate travel arrangements.

In support of the operation, members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) conducted biometric fingerprint verification using mobile scanning devices to determine whether any of the repatriated individuals were linked to criminal activities or were wanted for outstanding offences in South Africa. 

The verification process confirmed that the only records identified were related to previous arrests for contraventions of immigration laws, specifically illegal presence within the Republic.

The Commissioner commended the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved in facilitating the repatriation, including the Mozambican Embassy, SAPS, the Department of Social Development and BMA officials stationed at the Lebombo Port of Entry.

“The successful conclusion of this operation demonstrates the importance of coordinated action between neighbouring countries and government stakeholders in managing migration in a lawful, humane and orderly manner. 

“The BMA remains committed to ensuring that all movements across our ports of entry are processed in accordance with the law while upholding the dignity and rights of all persons involved,” Masiapato said.

The BMA continues to work closely with domestic and international partners to strengthen migration management, secure South Africa’s borders, and facilitate the legitimate movement of people and goods through the country’s ports of entry. – SAnews.gov.za

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Morolong to engage Free State Executive on strengthening government communication

Source: Government of South Africa

Morolong to engage Free State Executive on strengthening government communication

The Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Kenny Morolong, will on Wednesday engage the Free State Provincial Executive Council on the coordination of government communication, nation branding, and community media support in the province.

The Deputy Minister will be accompanied by delegates from the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) and Brand South Africa (Brand SA).  

“The engagement forms part of government’s ongoing communication policy advocacy programme aimed at enhancing a coordinated and integrated government communication system across all spheres of government,” the Presidency said in a statement. 

The Free State engagement follows a similar session held in the North West Province in March this year. It is part of a nationwide rollout intended to strengthen communication planning, promote a cohesive national narrative, support community media and advance South Africa’s nation-branding objectives. – SAnews.gov.za

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Cabinet closes the e-toll historical debt chapter

Source: Government of South Africa

Cabinet closes the e-toll historical debt chapter

The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, and the Deputy Minister, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, have welcomed Cabinet’s decision to approve the closure of the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP), popularly known as e-tolls – a move that will bring much-needed relief and ease the financial burden on road users.  

The approval for the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) to shut down e-tolls includes the close-out of GFIP historical e-toll debt and the resolution of all outstanding litigation matters. 

“Government reiterates that the close-out of GFIP e-toll debt is intended to provide certainty, resolve historical debt matters and support a sustainable approach to the funding, maintenance and improvement of South Africa’s national road network,” the Department of Transport said. 

The Minister and Deputy Minister have described this decision as a long-awaited step towards closing the GFIP e-toll matter in an orderly and responsible manner.

Creecy and Hlengwa said the decision will bring much-needed relief and ease the financial burden on road users, who are currently hard-pressed by high fuel costs linked to ongoing geopolitical developments.

GFIP was implemented and operated by SANRAL in terms of the applicable tolling framework and approvals that were in place at the time. 

The e-toll system was introduced as a funding mechanism for the upgraded Gauteng freeway network.

The approval follows government’s decision to close the GFIP e-toll scheme and the subsequent withdrawal of the GFIP toll declarations, which took effect on 11 April 2024.

Cabinet’s approval confirms that the outstanding and unpaid historical GFIP e-toll debt owed by road users will be written off; SANRAL will not pursue any further collection of historical GFIP e-toll debt; and road users who lawfully paid e-tolls while the system was legally in force will not be refunded.

The no-refund position arises from the fact that the levies were lawful at the time they were paid, that is, before the toll declarations were withdrawn.

The write-off of outstanding debt gives effect to government’s decision to close the GFIP e-toll scheme and provide finality for road users, SANRAL and the fiscus.

“Government further emphasises that the user-pay principle remains an important part of South Africa’s road infrastructure funding framework where it is broadly accepted by road users through negotiation and agreement, appropriately structured, legally sound and supported by clear policy certainty,” the department said. –SAnews.gov.za

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dtic backs local forestry firms at major industry expo

Source: Government of South Africa

dtic backs local forestry firms at major industry expo

In a move to grow the economy and support the creation of jobs for South Africans, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) is supporting four South African companies in the forestry sector at the WoodEX for Africa and Deck and Flooring Expo, taking place from 9 to 11 June 2026 at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

The exhibition provides an important platform for CMAS Trading and Projects, Seltech Cupboards, Roofbrands and Truss Master to showcase their products, explore new business opportunities and strengthen their presence in both local and international markets.

According to the department, the support forms part of its broader industrial policy objectives aimed at promoting industrialisation, strengthening local manufacturing, enhancing business competitiveness, encouraging value-added production, expanding market access for businesses, supporting Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), and creating sustainable jobs.

“Through participation in the exhibition, the dtic aims to grow South Africa’s forestry and furniture manufacturing industries, strengthen industry value chains, and increase commercial opportunities for local businesses,” the department said.

Recognised as a leading event for machinery, tools, forestry and timber supplies in southern Africa, WoodEX for Africa brings together trade and industry professionals, specialised dealers and businesses from across the sector.

The expo offers participants an opportunity to stay abreast of the latest industry trends and innovations, establish valuable business connections and identify new commercial prospects within the timber trade.

The dtic said its support for the participating companies forms part of ongoing efforts to grow South Africa’s forestry and furniture manufacturing industries through targeted policies, programmes and strategic interventions.

These initiatives are designed to strengthen the competitiveness of local businesses, encourage value-added production, expand access to new markets and unlock additional commercial opportunities.

At the exhibition, the four companies will showcase their capabilities, engage with potential customers, forge business partnerships and explore new trade opportunities aimed at expanding their commercial footprint.

The event will also provide a valuable platform for engagement between the dtic and industry stakeholders. Visitors to the department’s exhibition stand will be able to interact directly with officials, learn more about available business support and gain insight into programmes and incentives aimed at strengthening the forestry sector and supporting its long-term growth.

The dtic reaffirmed its commitment to implementing industrial policy measures that support industrialisation, investment, localisation, export growth and job creation, while fostering the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of South Africa’s forestry and furniture manufacturing industries. – SAnews.gov.za

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Forget Energy Transition, Produce Oil Like Nothing Before

Source: APO


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The world does not have an energy problem. It has an energy supply problem. As demand rises, populations grow, and billions of people continue to live without reliable access to electricity and clean cooking technologies, the case for producing more energy has never been stronger. From Africa to Latin America, governments and operators are responding with renewed investments in exploration, production and infrastructure, signaling a shift away from energy subtraction and toward energy addition.

Speaking during the ARPEL Conference 2026 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (AEC) – the voice of the African energy sector – delivered a direct message to policymakers, investors and industry leaders: “Forget transition. Let’s talk about addition. Let’s give people what they need.”

The numbers support the argument. Energy poverty remains one of the greatest barriers to economic development globally. In Africa alone, more than 600 million people remain without access to electricity, with nearly one billion people living without access to clean cooking technologies – the most disproportionately affected of which are women. Asking developing economies to produce less energy while these realities persist is fundamentally disconnected from the needs of billions of people.

“For far too long, we have been told to build less, produce less and pay more for energy,” Ayuk stated. “In Africa, we believe this is a moment for energy addition, not energy subtraction. Drill, baby, drill. It’s more important today than ever before.”

Africa offers the clearest justification for increasing oil and gas production. Despite holding more than 125 billion barrels of crude oil reserves and 620 trillion cubic feet of proven gas reserves, the continent relies heavily on imported petroleum products to sustain its economies. Inadequate investment flows across the energy value chain have impacted development and industrialization, leaving millions in the dark.

The global energy transition further compounds this challenge. Opposition by environmental groups, a shift toward aid rather than commercial business structures and diminishing investment for oil and gas projects have brought significant implications to the continent. While developed economies are pursuing a shift towards alternative energy sources, Africa needs its oil and gas – now more than ever before.

Efforts are being made across the continent to produce more oil and gas. Leading producers such as Nigeria and Angola strive to increase output, targeting brownfield development, accelerated exploration and enhanced recovery. Emerging producers such as Namibia are fast-approaching first oil, while discoveries made in Ivory Coast, investments made in the Republic of Congo, and new LNG builds in Mozambique and Tanzania are supporting greater production continent-wide.

“We must remain resolute. We must commit to an industry that builds more, produces more and never apologizes for oil. Many people in Africa are not ashamed of oil. We believe oil has a major role to play in our energy future,” Ayuk said.

Latin America offers a powerful demonstration of what sustained exploration and production can achieve. Brazil’s pre-salt developments remain among the most successful offshore projects in the world, delivering large volumes of low-cost production while attracting continued investment. Guyana continues to expand output at one of the fastest rates globally, while Argentina’s Vaca Muerta shale play is strengthening the country’s position as a major energy producer. Pan American Energy also recently announced plans to invest $680 million to revitalize Argentina’s Cerro Dragon field in the mature Golfo San Jorge basin, reflecting global interest in optimizing South American oil production.

The region’s success reflects a commitment to developing resources rather than restricting them. “Our friends in Latin America have been strong stewards for our industry,” Ayuk said, adding, “Be proud of your energy industry.”

That message extends far beyond Latin America. As governments reassess energy policy, supply security and economic growth priorities, oil and gas continue to provide the foundation upon which modern economies are built. The choice facing both emerging and producing nations is increasingly clear: either create the conditions necessary for investment, exploration and development, or risk falling behind in a world that continues to demand more energy.

“We do not have anywhere to transition to. Where are we going to transition to? From the dark to the dark?” Ayuk asked. “We want to ensure that we have energy that drives development.”

For billions of people still seeking access to affordable, reliable energy, the priority is not producing less. It is producing more.

“Don’t ever apologize for producing energy that drives human flourishing,” Ayuk concluded. “Keep building, keep producing and don’t be scared to say, ‘drill, baby, drill’ whenever you have the chance.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Heirs Energies’ US$750 Million Financing Named Best Oil & Gas Deal of the Year

Source: APO

Heirs Energies Limited, Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company, has been recognised on the global stage after its landmark US$750 million dual-tranche Senior Secured Reserve-Based Lending (RBL) facility was named Best Oil & Gas Deal of the Year at the EMEA Finance Project Finance Awards 2026.

The award was presented on 3 June 2026, in London, and recognises one of the largest financings secured by an indigenous African energy company. The transaction highlights the growing role of African capital in supporting strategic investments that advance energy security, economic development, and long-term value creation across the continent.

Executed with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), the US$750 million financing was structured to accelerate field development, optimise production, and support Heirs Energies’ long-term growth ambitions, while maintaining disciplined capital management.

Commenting on the recognition, Osa Igiehon, Chief Executive Officer of Heirs Energies, said: “This recognition reflects the confidence that African and international financial institutions continue to place in Heirs Energies, our strategy, and our long-term vision.

“The transaction demonstrates that indigenous African energy companies can successfully structure and execute world-class financing solutions that support investment, growth, and value creation. We are proud to receive this award and grateful to our financing partners, advisers, and stakeholders whose support made it possible.”

Mr. Haytham ElMaayergi, Executive Vice President, Global Trade Bank at Afreximbank, said: “We are truly honoured that the US$750 million dual-tranche Senior Secured Reserve-Based Lending facility for Heirs Energies has been recognised as Best Oil & Gas Deal of the Year by the EMEA Finance Project Finance Awards.

“This recognition underscores the importance of well-structured, Africa-focused financing in supporting indigenous energy companies with strong governance, high-quality assets and clear long-term growth plans. Afreximbank was proud to support this landmark transaction, which demonstrates how African financial institutions can help mobilise capital for strategic businesses that advance energy security, production capacity and sustainable value creation across the continent.

“We congratulate Heirs Energies and all the partners involved in the transaction and are pleased to see this important financing recognised on such a respected international platform.”

Samuel Nwanze, Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer of Heirs Energies, added: “This award validates the strength of the transaction and the confidence our financing partners placed in Heirs Energies.

“The facility was designed to support our long-term growth strategy, enabling continued investment in field development, production optimisation, and sustainable value creation. We are pleased to see the transaction recognised on such a respected global platform.”

The financing represented a major milestone in Heirs Energies’ evolution from acquisition-led financing to a capital structure aligned with the long-term development profile of its reserves. It further reinforced the Company’s position as a leading indigenous energy producer and demonstrated the ability of African institutions to finance transformational African businesses.

The EMEA Finance Project Finance Awards recognise outstanding transactions across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, celebrating excellence, innovation, and impact in project and structured finance.

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 Heirs Energies:
Heirs Energies Limited is Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company, committed to meeting Africa’s unique energy needs while aligning with global sustainability goals. Having a strong focus on innovation, environmental responsibility, and community development, Heirs Energies leads in the evolving energy landscape and contributes to a more prosperous Africa.

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 2025, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$48.5 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$8.4 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), GCR (A), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-), and. Moody’s (Baa2). 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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What Human Resource (HR) Professionals Gain from Automation

Source: APO

Human resource people are concerned. As automation becomes more featured in modern digital technologies, many HR staff are asking the same question: will automation replace me?

Their fears are not unfounded. According to surveys conducted by Gartner (https://apo-opa.co/4uo4fGQ), some companies are using AI as an excuse to reduce HR headcounts, and 79% of Chief HR Officers told AMS (https://apo-opa.co/4xj8Qg9) that they see notable concerns about job security among their teams.

Supporting human abilities

However, a report published last year by the International Labour Organisation (https://apo-opa.co/3SaBQGM) found that AI and automation are unlikely to replace HR staff. Instead, automation is producing significant productivity improvements for HR staff, says Mignon Wolmarans, HR Product Manager at Deel Local Payroll.

“HR jobs require people with complex problem-solving, creativity, and strong interpersonal skills. These are not abilities that a machine or software can replace. But HR people spend most of their time on manual tasks that actually reduce their ability to focus on priorities where their skills are needed the most.”

This observation comes from working with clients who adopt automation in their HR environments, she adds.

“We sometimes encounter reluctance when we bring up automation, and the resistance is usually around a comfort with manual processes or gaps in training and skills that reduce people’s confidence in technology. But when we work with them to overcome those concerns, they love what automation does and how it gives them more autonomy and focus.”

How automation supports HR

Modern HR platforms, cloud software, can automate many routine HR tasks, either as processes designed by HR teams or as ready-to-use native features. These latter features match frequent HR tasks that would otherwise require significant manual processing, input from multiple people, or both.

Some examples include:

  • Leave management: Automate accruals based on length of service, salary grade, or a combination of the two. Automation applies forfeiture rules automatically, and if an employee’s tenure ends, leave encashment is calculated and processed in a single automated action.
  • Claims: Self-service custom forms and document attachments streamline overtime and travel claims. These are processed through established rules and approvals, pushed to the responsible managers or heads of departments. As soon as a claim is approved, it automatically updates payslip information.
  • E-onboarding: Instead of HR practitioners capturing new employee information manually, ‌newcomers use online forms to complete their basic profile and address information, and attach key documents, all of which are loaded onto their profile and only require approval from HR.
  • Performance management: Set up different performance review layouts, forms, and templates for various roles, objectives, and indicators. Participants can attach supporting documents, while reviewers, managers, and other staff can submit their contributions. All the performance data feeds into central dashboards for complete control and visibility of the company’s performance.

These automations reduce manual workloads and errors while extending features to other stakeholders in different departments. Crucially, they don’t replace HR staff and instead give them the capacity to focus on intricate and human-centric activities that require more than capturing data and compiling reports. As mentioned, HR teams can also create automated processes and customised forms.

Creating digital confidence

The best HR software vendors offer training and skills honing for customers. For example, Deel Local Payroll provides training staff and extensive learning resources for its customers, helping them take charge of automation.

“People are most reluctant to adopt automation because of skills gaps, which feeds into fears that the technology will replace them. That’s why we have a dedicated training department, one-to-one training, and e-learning courses that help fill those gaps,” says Wolmarans.

The fear that automation will replace HR people is overstated, even if some company leaders consider it an option. Software cannot compare to what skilled HR professionals do best. But those same professionals focus overwhelmingly on manual tasks, taking time better spent on more complex and strategic priorities.

Automation doesn’t replace HR professionals. When the right platform and vendor support them, it makes them better at their jobs.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace.

About Deel Local Payroll:
Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace, revolutionises payroll management. It offers online, multi-country payroll and HR management for businesses from start-ups through to enterprise in over 40 African countries, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and Brazil.

Cloud-native, Deel Local Payroll, is scalable, configurable, highly secure, and easy-to-use—delivering anytime, anywhere access. It features payroll automation, self-service features, automatic legislation and feature updates, customised reporting, and more.

Since 2024, Deel Local Payroll has been part of Deel, operating as an independent subsidiary, serving its customers through the PaySpace platform.

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Oubliez la transition énergétique, produisons du pétrole comme jamais auparavant

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le monde n’a pas de problème énergétique. Il a un problème d’approvisionnement énergétique. Alors que la demande augmente, que les populations s’accroissent et que des milliards de personnes continuent de vivre sans accès fiable à l’électricité et à des technologies de cuisson propre, les arguments en faveur d’une production énergétique accrue n’ont jamais été aussi solides. De l’Afrique à l’Amérique latine, les gouvernements et les opérateurs réagissent en renouvelant leurs investissements dans l’exploration, la production et les infrastructures, marquant ainsi un tournant : on passe d’une soustraction d’énergie à une addition d’énergie.

S’exprimant lors de la conférence ARPEL 2026 à Buenos Aires, en Argentine, NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie (AEC) – la voix du secteur énergétique africain – a adressé un message direct aux décideurs politiques, aux investisseurs et aux dirigeants du secteur : « Oublions la transition. Parlons plutôt d’augmentation. Donnons aux gens ce dont ils ont besoin. »

Les chiffres viennent étayer cet argument. La précarité énergétique reste l’un des principaux obstacles au développement économique à l’échelle mondiale. Rien qu’en Afrique, plus de 600 millions de personnes n’ont toujours pas accès à l’électricité, et près d’un milliard de personnes vivent sans accès à des technologies de cuisson propre – les femmes étant les plus touchées de manière disproportionnée. Demander aux économies en développement de produire moins d’énergie alors que ces réalités persistent est fondamentalement déconnecté des besoins de milliards de personnes.

« Depuis bien trop longtemps, on nous dit de construire moins, de produire moins et de payer plus cher l’énergie », a déclaré M. Ayuk. « En Afrique, nous pensons que le moment est venu d’ajouter de l’énergie, et non d’en soustraire. Forons, forons encore et encore. C’est plus important aujourd’hui que jamais. »

L’Afrique offre la justification la plus évidente pour augmenter la production de pétrole et de gaz. Bien qu’il détienne plus de 125 milliards de barils de réserves de pétrole brut et 620 000 milliards de pieds cubes de réserves prouvées de gaz, le continent dépend fortement des produits pétroliers importés pour soutenir ses économies. L’insuffisance des flux d’investissement tout au long de la chaîne de valeur énergétique a eu un impact sur le développement et l’industrialisation, laissant des millions de personnes dans le noir.

La transition énergétique mondiale aggrave encore ce défi. L’opposition des groupes environnementaux, le passage à des structures d’aide plutôt que commerciales et la baisse des investissements dans les projets pétroliers et gaziers ont eu des répercussions importantes sur le continent. Alors que les économies développées s’orientent vers des sources d’énergie alternatives, l’Afrique a besoin de son pétrole et de son gaz – aujourd’hui plus que jamais.

Des efforts sont déployés à travers le continent pour produire davantage de pétrole et de gaz. Des producteurs de premier plan tels que le Nigeria et l’Angola s’efforcent d’augmenter leur production, en ciblant le développement de sites existants, l’accélération de l’exploration et l’amélioration de la récupération. Des producteurs émergents comme la Namibie approchent à grands pas de leur première production de pétrole, tandis que les découvertes faites en Côte d’Ivoire, les investissements réalisés en République du Congo et les nouvelles installations de GNL au Mozambique et en Tanzanie favorisent une production accrue à l’échelle du continent.

« Nous devons rester résolus. Nous devons nous engager en faveur d’une industrie qui construit davantage, produit davantage et ne s’excuse jamais pour le pétrole. Beaucoup de gens en Afrique n’ont pas honte du pétrole. Nous pensons que le pétrole a un rôle majeur à jouer dans notre avenir énergétique », a déclaré M. Ayuk.

L’Amérique latine offre une démonstration éloquente de ce que l’exploration et la production soutenues peuvent accomplir. Les développements pré-salifères du Brésil restent parmi les projets offshore les plus réussis au monde, assurant de grands volumes de production à faible coût tout en attirant des investissements continus. La Guyane continue d’augmenter sa production à l’un des rythmes les plus rapides au monde, tandis que le gisement de schiste de Vaca Muerta en Argentine renforce la position du pays en tant que grand producteur d’énergie. Pan American Energy a également annoncé récemment son intention d’investir 680 millions de dollars pour revitaliser le champ Cerro Dragon en Argentine, dans le bassin mature du Golfo San Jorge, ce qui reflète l’intérêt mondial pour l’optimisation de la production pétrolière sud-américaine.

Le succès de la région reflète un engagement à développer les ressources plutôt qu’à les restreindre. « Nos amis d’Amérique latine ont été de solides garants de notre industrie », a déclaré M. Ayuk, ajoutant : « Soyez fiers de votre industrie énergétique. »

Ce message s’étend bien au-delà de l’Amérique latine. Alors que les gouvernements réévaluent leurs priorités en matière de politique énergétique, de sécurité d’approvisionnement et de croissance économique, le pétrole et le gaz continuent de constituer le fondement sur lequel reposent les économies modernes.

Le choix auquel sont confrontés tant les pays émergents que les pays producteurs est de plus en plus clair : soit créer les conditions nécessaires à l’investissement, à l’exploration et au développement, soit risquer de prendre du retard dans un monde qui continue d’exiger davantage d’énergie.

« Nous n’avons nulle part où aller. Vers quoi allons-nous évoluer ? De l’obscurité vers l’obscurité ? », a demandé M. Ayuk. « Nous voulons nous assurer de disposer de l’énergie qui stimule le développement. »

Pour les milliards de personnes qui cherchent encore à accéder à une énergie abordable et fiable, la priorité n’est pas de produire moins. C’est de produire plus.

« Ne vous excusez jamais de produire de l’énergie qui favorise l’épanouissement humain », a conclu M. Ayuk. « Continuez à construire, continuez à produire et n’ayez pas peur de dire “forez, mes amis, forez” chaque fois que vous en avez l’occasion. »

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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Esqueça a transição energética, produza petróleo como nunca antes

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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O mundo não tem um problema energético. Tem um problema de abastecimento energético. À medida que a procura aumenta, as populações crescem e milhares de milhões de pessoas continuam a viver sem acesso fiável à eletricidade e a tecnologias de cozinha limpas, os argumentos a favor de uma maior produção de energia nunca foram tão fortes. Da África à América Latina, governos e operadores estão a responder com novos investimentos em exploração, produção e infraestruturas, sinalizando uma mudança da subtração de energia para a adição de energia.

Ao discursar na Conferência ARPEL 2026 em Buenos Aires, Argentina, NJ Ayuk, Presidente Executivo da Câmara Africana de Energia (AEC) – a voz do setor energético africano – transmitiu uma mensagem direta aos decisores políticos, investidores e líderes da indústria: “Esqueçam a transição. Vamos falar de adição. Vamos dar às pessoas o que elas precisam.”

Os números corroboram o argumento. A pobreza energética continua a ser uma das maiores barreiras ao desenvolvimento económico a nível global. Só em África, mais de 600 milhões de pessoas continuam sem acesso à eletricidade, com quase mil milhões de pessoas a viver sem acesso a tecnologias de cozinha limpas – sendo as mulheres as mais afetadas de forma desproporcional. Pedir às economias em desenvolvimento que produzam menos energia enquanto estas realidades persistem está fundamentalmente desligado das necessidades de milhares de milhões de pessoas.

«Há demasiado tempo que nos dizem para construir menos, produzir menos e pagar mais pela energia», afirmou Ayuk. «Em África, acreditamos que este é um momento para a adição de energia, não para a subtração de energia. Perfura, querida, perfura. É mais importante hoje do que nunca.»

África oferece a justificação mais clara para o aumento da produção de petróleo e gás. Apesar de possuir mais de 125 mil milhões de barris de reservas de petróleo bruto e 620 biliões de pés cúbicos de reservas comprovadas de gás, o continente depende fortemente de produtos petrolíferos importados para sustentar as suas economias. Os fluxos de investimento inadequados ao longo da cadeia de valor energética têm afetado o desenvolvimento e a industrialização, deixando milhões na escuridão.

A transição energética global agrava ainda mais este desafio. A oposição de grupos ambientalistas, uma mudança para estruturas de ajuda em vez de estruturas comerciais e a diminuição do investimento em projetos de petróleo e gás trouxeram implicações significativas para o continente. Enquanto as economias desenvolvidas procuram uma transição para fontes de energia alternativas, África precisa do seu petróleo e gás – agora mais do que nunca.

Estão a ser envidados esforços em todo o continente para produzir mais petróleo e gás. Produtores líderes, como a Nigéria e Angola, esforçam-se por aumentar a produção, visando o desenvolvimento de campos já explorados, a exploração acelerada e a recuperação melhorada. Produtores emergentes, como a Namíbia, estão a aproximar-se rapidamente da primeira produção de petróleo, enquanto as descobertas feitas na Costa do Marfim, os investimentos realizados na República do Congo e as novas construções de GNL em Moçambique e na Tanzânia estão a apoiar uma maior produção em todo o continente.

“Temos de permanecer resolutos. Temos de nos comprometer com uma indústria que constrói mais, produz mais e nunca pede desculpa pelo petróleo. Muitas pessoas em África não têm vergonha do petróleo. Acreditamos que o petróleo tem um papel importante a desempenhar no nosso futuro energético”, afirmou Ayuk.

A América Latina oferece uma demonstração poderosa do que a exploração e a produção sustentadas podem alcançar. Os desenvolvimentos do pré-sal do Brasil continuam a estar entre os projetos offshore mais bem-sucedidos do mundo, proporcionando grandes volumes de produção a baixo custo, ao mesmo tempo que atraem investimento contínuo. A Guiana continua a expandir a produção a um dos ritmos mais rápidos a nível global, enquanto a jazida de xisto de Vaca Muerta, na Argentina, está a reforçar a posição do país como um importante produtor de energia. A Pan American Energy também anunciou recentemente planos para investir 680 milhões de dólares na revitalização do campo Cerro Dragon, na Argentina, na bacia madura do Golfo San Jorge, refletindo o interesse global em otimizar a produção de petróleo na América do Sul.

O sucesso da região reflete um compromisso com o desenvolvimento dos recursos, em vez de os restringir. «Os nossos amigos na América Latina têm sido fortes defensores da nossa indústria», disse Ayuk, acrescentando: «Tenham orgulho na vossa indústria energética.»

Essa mensagem estende-se muito além da América Latina. À medida que os governos reavaliam as prioridades em matéria de política energética, segurança do abastecimento e crescimento económico, o petróleo e o gás continuam a constituir a base sobre a qual as economias modernas são construídas.

A escolha que se coloca tanto às nações emergentes como às produtoras é cada vez mais clara: ou se criam as condições necessárias para o investimento, a exploração e o desenvolvimento, ou se corre o risco de ficar para trás num mundo que continua a exigir mais energia.

«Não temos para onde fazer a transição. Para onde vamos fazer a transição? Da escuridão para a escuridão?», perguntou Ayuk. «Queremos garantir que temos energia que impulsiona o desenvolvimento.»

Para milhares de milhões de pessoas que ainda procuram acesso a energia acessível e fiável, a prioridade não é produzir menos. É produzir mais.

«Nunca peçam desculpa por produzirem energia que impulsiona o florescimento humano», concluiu Ayuk. «Continuem a construir, continuem a produzir e não tenham medo de dizer “perfura, querida, perfura” sempre que tiverem oportunidade.»

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

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Spiro Appoints Former Indofast Energy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Anant Badjatya as Group CEO to Lead its Next Phase of Growth

Source: APO – Report:

  • Following its most recent landmark US$215 million equity raise, Spiro is strengthening its leadership team to execute its next phase of pan-African expansion and appoints Anant Badjatya as Group CEO of Spiro.
  • Anant Badjatya previously spearheaded Indofast Energy, the IndianOil × SUN Mobility joint venture, where he built one of India’s largest battery-swapping networks with more than 1,800 stations serving approximately 90,000 vehicles daily.

Spiro (http://www.Spironet.com), Africa’s leading electric mobility company, today announced the appointment of Anant Badjatya as Group Chief Executive Officer.

Anant joins Spiro with more than two decades of leadership experience across India, the Middle East and Africa, building and scaling businesses across electric mobility, energy and industrial sectors.

Most recently, he served as CEO of Indofast Energy, the joint venture between IndianOil and SUN Mobility, where he led the development of one of India’s largest battery-swapping networks, comprising more than 1,800 stations and serving nearly 90,000 vehicles daily.

The appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Spiro following its landmark US$215 million financing round, one of the largest investments ever made in Africa’s electric mobility sector. Anant’s broad mandate will span battery swapping, leasing, logistics, energy, and vehicle manufacturing.

Gagan Gupta, Founder and Chairman of Spiro said: 

“As Spiro is accelerating on its mission to transform mobility across Africa through clean, affordable and accessible electric transportation solutions, Anant will consolidate the Group’s strategic initiatives and guide the company through its next chapter of growth and execution in mobility, energy and tech.”

Commenting on his appointment, Anant Badjatya said:

“Africa represents the most exciting frontier for electric mobility.  Spiro has built a unique platform and is exceptionally well positioned to accelerate the transition to cleaner and more accessible mobility across the continent. I look forward to working with our teams, partners and stakeholders to drive the next phase of growth and impact.“

– on behalf of Spiro.

Media Contact:
Flora Limukii
Head of Corporate Communications, Spiro
Email: communications@spironet.com

About Spiro:
Spiro is Africa’s largest electric mobility company and operates the continent’s most extensive battery-swapping network for electric two-wheel vehicles. With more than 100,000 electric motorcycles on the road, over 2,500 swapping stations and more than 30 million battery swaps to date, Spiro is replacing expensive fossil-fuel transport with affordable, accessible and sustainable mobility solutions. Through its growing regional production and assembly footprint, Spiro is committed to building electric vehicles made in Africa by Africans for Africa and the world. https://www.Spironet.com/

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