Category: MIL-OSI

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Africa Investment Forum: Rome Process/Mattei Plan Financing Facility (RPFF) Governing Council holds inaugural in-person meeting in Rabat

Source: APO – Report:

The Rome Process/Mattei Plan Financing Facility (RPFF) Governing Council convened for its first-ever in-person meeting in Rabat, Morocco, on the margins of the Africa Investment Forum (AIF).

The Governing Council approved the RPFF’s 2026 work plan, which targets commitments of close to €100 million. These resources are expected to leverage more than €550 million in co-financing from the African Development Bank’s ordinary resources. The investments will advance inclusive growth, enhance essential service delivery, build climate resilience, and address the root causes of irregular migration.

This meeting marks an important milestone for the RPFF, which was approved by the African Development Bank Board of Governors in February 2025. Dr Kevin K. Kariuki, Vice President, Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth, underscored RPFF’s critical importance, noting that it is truly vital in addressing Africa’s profound and interconnected challenges. It mobilises and channels resources into strategic investments in the energy, transport, and water sectors through co-financing—via concessional loans or grants—of African Development Bank projects, as well as through the provision of technical assistance.The RPFF, with an initial capitalisation of €158 million, is supported by its founding partners: Italy and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

“Italy is profoundly committed to cultivating a new era of partnership with African nations, as envisioned by the Mattei Plan. The RPFF is a cornerstone of this commitment, translating shared goals into tangible projects that will empower communities, drive economic growth, and enhance climate resilience,” said Lorenzo Ortona, Representative for Italy at the RPFF Governing Council. “The approval of this ambitious 2026 Work Plan underscores our collective resolve to accelerate sustainable development and address pressing challenges across the continent.”

“The UAE firmly believes in the power of global collaboration to achieve sustainable development and address climate change,” said Sarah Jasim, Director of Sustainable Development Department at the UAE Aid Agency and Representative for the UAE at the RPFF Governing Council. “Our support for the RPFF reflects our dedication to empowering African nations with the resources needed to build resilient infrastructure, create opportunities, and improve the lives of their citizens. We look forward to witnessing the transformative impact of the projects outlined in the 2026 Annual Work Plan.”

In the first few months of operation, the RPFF has already approved two projects that demonstrate its immediate commitment to on-the-ground impact. The Eastern Region Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (ERAVCDP) in Angola is a €17 million concessional loan contribution to a €183  million project that aims to enhance agricultural processing and value chain development, strengthening regional food security and economic opportunities. The Borana Resilient Water Development for Improved Livelihoods Program II in Ethiopia is a €6 million grant contribution to a €60  million project that is improving access to climate-resilient water and sanitation for pastoralist communities in the Borana zone, strengthening catchment management, and promoting crucial climate adaptation measures, with a strong focus on women’s participation.

Dr Daniel Schroth, African Development Bank Director for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency and head of the RPFF Technical Coordination Unit, said:  “We are immensely grateful to our founding partners, Italy and the UAE, for their pioneering support and commitment. Together, we have created a facility that will be a catalyst for transformative development, addressing climate challenges, and driving prosperity across the continent.”

– on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

About the Rome Process/Mattei Plan Financing Facility (RPFF): 
The Rome Process/Mattei Plan Financing Facility (RPFF) is a multi-donor financing facility hosted by the African Development Bank. The RPFF is a key instrument in actualising the goals of the Rome Process and the Mattei Plan. It supported climate-aligned sovereign infrastructure projects in the energy, transport and water sectors in Africa to support sustainable development and contribute to addressing the root causes of irregular migration. Through its two financing windows: (i) Non-reimbursable technical assistance window and (ii) Investment window (Concessional loan and Grant), it ensures that financing is directed where it can have the greatest long-term impact, while reinforcing good governance and institutional capacity, creating jobs, improving livelihoods, and strengthening resilience in vulnerable communities.

About the African Development Bank Group: 
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 34 African countries with an external office in Japan, the AfDB contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

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Political Consultations Between the State of Qatar, Kingdom of Belgium Take Place

Source: Government of Qatar

Brussels, November 27, 2025

The fourth round of political consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar and the Kingdom of Belgium was held in Brussels today.

The Qatari side was headed by HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi while the Belgian side was headed by HE Secretary General and President of the board of directors of the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation Theodora Gentsez.

The consultations dealt with discussing cooperation between the two countries and ways to support and strengthen them, in addition to several regional and international issues of joint interest. 

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Qatar Participates in NATO-Istanbul Cooperation Initiative Meeting in Brussels

Source: Government of Qatar

Brussels, November 27, 2025

The State of Qatar took part in the joint meeting between the NATO Council and member states of the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative (ICI) in Brussels.
Charge d’Affaires at Qatar’s Mission to the European Union and NATO, Sara bint Ahmed Al Mohannadi, represented the country at the meeting. She said the meeting was held amid rapidly evolving security and geopolitical developments, underlining the need to strengthen joint efforts and build partnerships based on mutual respect.
Al Mohannadi stressed that Doha is a trusted NATO partner in supporting regional and global security and stability. Since joining the ICI in 2005, Qatar has expanded its cooperation with NATO in three key areas: diplomacy, training, and operations.
The diplomat revealed that Qatar is in the final stages of establishing a regional NATO training center in Doha and is preparing to sign the Individually Tailored Partnership Programs (ITPPs). She noted that Qatar is the only partner to have fully certified all units of its armed forces under NATO’s Operational Capabilities Concept Evaluation and Feedback Program.
Highlighting Qatar’s mediation efforts, Al Mohannadi cited the signing of the Doha Framework Agreement in November 2025 between the Government of DR Congo and the Congo River Alliance (M23), as well as ongoing initiatives to reunite Ukrainian children.
She also emphasized shared opportunities between Qatar and NATO in maritime security, counter-terrorism, counter-extremism, and artificial intelligence, describing them as strategic priorities requiring coordinated action.
Al Mohannadi reaffirmed the strategic nature of Qatar’s partnership with NATO and the country’s commitment to further strengthening cooperation to support security and stability in the region and worldwide.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte praised Qatar’s pivotal role in mediation and conflict resolution, its active engagement on the international stage, as well as its strong partnership with the NATO, including hosting the bloc’s training center. 

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Fórum Africano de Investimento: Conselho Administrativo do Mecanismo de Financiamento do Processo de Roma/Plano Mattei (RPFF) realiza primeira reunião presencial em Rabat

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O Conselho Administrativo do Mecanismo de Financiamento do Processo de Roma/Plano Mattei (RPFF) reuniu-se pela primeira vez presencialmente em Rabat, Marrocos, à margem do Fórum Africano de Investimento (AIF).

O Conselho Administrativo aprovou o plano de trabalho do RPFF para 2026, que tem como meta compromissos de cerca de 100 milhões de euros. Espera-se que estes recursos mobilizem mais de 550 milhões de euros em cofinanciamento proveniente dos recursos ordinários do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento. Os investimentos promoverão o crescimento inclusivo, melhorarão a prestação de serviços essenciais, reforçarão a resiliência climática e abordarão as causas profundas da migração irregular.

Esta reunião marca um marco importante para o RPFF, que foi aprovado pelo Conselho de Governadores do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento em fevereiro de 2025. O Dr. Kevin K. Kariuki, Vice-Presidente para a Energia, Clima e Crescimento Verde, sublinhou a importância crítica do RPFF, salientando que este é verdadeiramente vital para enfrentar os desafios profundos e interligados de África. Mobiliza e canaliza recursos para investimentos estratégicos nos setores da energia, transportes e água através do cofinanciamento – através de empréstimos concessionais ou subvenções – de projetos do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento, bem como através da prestação de assistência técnica. O RPFF, com uma capitalização inicial de 158 milhões de euros, é apoiado pelos seus parceiros fundadores: Itália e Emirados Árabes Unidos (EAU).

“A Itália está profundamente empenhada em cultivar uma nova era de parceria com as nações africanas, tal como previsto pelo Plano Mattei. O RPFF é uma pedra angular deste compromisso, traduzindo objetivos comuns em projetos tangíveis que capacitarão as comunidades, impulsionarão o crescimento económico e aumentarão a resiliência climática”, afirmou Lorenzo Ortona, representante da Itália no Conselho de Administração do RPFF. “A aprovação deste ambicioso Plano de Trabalho para 2026 sublinha a nossa determinação coletiva em acelerar o desenvolvimento sustentável e enfrentar os desafios prementes em todo o continente”, acrescentou.

“Os EAU acreditam firmemente no poder da colaboração global para alcançar o desenvolvimento sustentável e enfrentar as alterações climáticas”, comentou Sarah Jasim, diretora do Departamento de Desenvolvimento Sustentável da Agência de Assistência dos EAU e representante dos EAU no Conselho Administrativo do RPFF. “O nosso apoio ao RPFF reflete a nossa dedicação em capacitar as nações africanas com os recursos necessários para construir infraestruturas resilientes, criar oportunidades e melhorar a vida dos seus cidadãos. Estamos ansiosos por testemunhar o impacto transformador dos projetos descritos no Plano de Trabalho Anual de 2026”, acrescentou.

Nos primeiros meses de funcionamento, o RPFF já aprovou dois projetos que demonstram o seu compromisso imediato com o impacto no terreno. O Projeto de Desenvolvimento da Cadeia de Valor Agrícola da Região Oriental (ERAVCDP) em Angola é uma contribuição de 17 milhões de euros em empréstimos concessionais para um projeto de 183 milhões de euros que visa melhorar o processamento agrícola e o desenvolvimento da cadeia de valor, reforçando a segurança alimentar regional e as oportunidades económicas. O Programa II de Desenvolvimento da Resiliência Hídrica de Borana para Melhoria dos Meios de Subsistência, na Etiópia, é uma contribuição de 6 milhões de euros para um projeto de 60 milhões de euros que está a melhorar o acesso a água e saneamento resilientes às alterações climáticas para as comunidades pastorais na zona de Borana, reforçando a gestão das bacias hidrográficas e promovendo medidas cruciais de adaptação às alterações climáticas, com um forte enfoque na participação das mulheres.

O Dr. Daniel Schroth, Diretor do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento para as Energias Renováveis e Eficiência Energética e chefe da Unidade de Coordenação Técnica do RPFF, afirmou: “Estamos imensamente gratos aos nossos parceiros fundadores, Itália e EAU, pelo seu apoio e compromisso pioneiros. Juntos, criámos um mecanismo que será um catalisador para o desenvolvimento transformador, abordando os desafios climáticos e impulsionando a prosperidade em todo o continente”.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contacto para os media:
Departamento de Comunicação e Relações Externas 
media@afdb.org

Sobre o Mecanismo de Financiamento do Processo de Roma/Plano Mattei (RPFF): 
O Mecanismo de Financiamento do Processo de Roma/Plano Mattei (RPFF) é um mecanismo de financiamento multidoadores acolhido no Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento. O RPFF é um instrumento fundamental para concretizar os objetivos do Processo de Roma e do Plano Mattei. Apoiou projetos de infraestruturas soberanas alinhados com o clima nos setores da energia, transportes e água em África, a fim de apoiar o desenvolvimento sustentável e contribuir para abordar as causas profundas da migração irregular. Através das suas duas vertentes de financiamento (i) assistência técnica não reembolsável e (ii) investimento (empréstimos concessionais e subvenções), garante que o financiamento é direcionado para onde pode ter o maior impacto a longo prazo, reforçando simultaneamente a boa governação e a capacidade institucional, criando empregos, melhorando os meios de subsistência e reforçando a resiliência em comunidades vulneráveis.

Sobre o Grupo do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento:
O Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento é a principal instituição financeira de desenvolvimento em África. Inclui três entidades distintas: o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (AfDB), o Fundo Africano de Desenvolvimento (ADF) e o Fundo Fiduciário da Nigéria (NTF). Presente no terreno em 41 países africanos, com uma representação externa no Japão, o Banco contribui para o desenvolvimento económico e o progresso social dos seus 54 Estados-membros. Mais informações em www.AfDB.org/pt

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Petralon Energy Advances Dawes Island Drilling Activities Through Petroleum Industry Act (PIA)-Driven Development Strategy

Source: APO


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African exploration and production company Petralon Energy is advancing drilling activities at the Dawes Island field, situated at PPL 259 in Nigeria. The company brought the DI-2 well online while announcing the successful spudding of the DI-3 well. Both milestones reflect an ambitious drive to bolster production through continuous drilling activities in line with the country’s Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), underscoring the central role independent companies play in driving Nigeria’s production goals.  

Following his inspection of operations at the Dawes Island field, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri issued a strong endorsement of Petralon Energy and its operational milestones. Minister Lokpobiri commended the company for supporting the country’s production strategy, highlighting the impact of the PIA in not only delivering the country’s oil and gas goals but cementing the role indigenous companies play in the country’s production portfolio.  

“After inspecting operations at the field operated by Petralon Energy Limited, I noted that we have always maintained that the era of holding licenses as souvenirs is over. Under the “Drill or Drop” provision of the PIA, operators must remain actively engage in drilling activities or be prepared to relinquish such assets,” Minister Lokpobiri stated. He further explained that Petralon Energy represents an example for other licensees to follow, highlighting the value of a ‘drill, baby drill’ approach to meet Nigeria’s production quota as the country targets 2.5 million barrels per day (bpd) in the coming years.  

Representing the voice of the African energy sector, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) welcomes the strong endorsement of Petralon Energy by Minister Lokpobiri. His remarks underscore a critical message for Nigeria’s upstream sector: that regulatory clarity, deliberate government support and operator accountability are now working hand-in-hand to deliver real barrels and real future. For the AEC, Petralon’s performance is a compelling demonstration of what the PIA was designed to achieve – an environment where committed indigenous operators can thrive, production can grow and communities become active stakeholders in the success of energy projects. 

Petralon Energy has become a key example of Nigeria’s upstream momentum. Since taking over the Dawes Island field, the company has revived abandoned infrastructure, restarted the DI-2 well and launched a drilling campaign adding up to 2,500 bpd. These results reflect what Minister Lokpobiri called Petralon’s “commendable capacity,” reinforcing the message that empowered indigenous operators can deliver real volumes that support national production goals. Other indigenous operators stand to learn from Petralon Energy’s approach, positioning themselves at the forefront of PIA-led production growth in Nigeria.  

Petralon Energy’s work at PPL 259 shows what becomes possible when regulatory certainty, local capability and steady investment are working in sync. Its role in the Project One Million Barrels initiative further demonstrates how indigenous players are stepping into the space left as international major shift away from onshore and shallow-water assets. Petralon Energy has also moved early on community engagement, an area that has historically slowed progress in the Niger Delta. Through Petralon 54, the company has set up Host Community Development Trusts for the Ogoloma and Koniama communities – swift action that signals respect for the PIA and recognition that operations and social license must go hand-in-hand. This approach aligns strongly with the Chamber’s push for development models that build long-term stability and trust. 

“Petralon Energy has shown what happens when you give capable Nigerian companies the room to perform – they deliver. The company’s progress at Dawes Island is proof that indigenous operators are essential to hitting national production targets,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC. 

Nigeria remains the pillar of Africa’s energy landscape, and strengthening local participation is essential to sustaining that role. Petralon Energy’s progress, paired with active government engagement, offers a practical model for boosting production, deepening local ownership and ensuring that resource development is transparent and broadly beneficial.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Merck Foundation congratulates Kenya First Lady, Mama Rachel Ruto and the Joyful Women Organisation as they mark 16 years of inspiring women economic empowerment

Source: APO – Report:

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, extends heartfelt congratulations to H.E. Mama Rachel Ruto E.G.H., First Lady of Kenya, and the Joyful Women Organization (JOYWO) on marking 16 impactful years of inspiring women economic empowerment across Kenya.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation shared, “Congratulations to Mama Rachel Ruto and Joyful Women Organization on this remarkable milestone, sixteen years of empowering women, strengthening communities, and driving real change is truly an achievement to be celebrated.”

Through the table-banking model and community-led initiatives, Joyful Women has opened pathways for women to start businesses, support their families and strengthen communities.

“We celebrate Mama Rachel’s visionary leadership and partnership in building a more inclusive, prosperous Kenya.” Kelej added.

Merck Foundation is closely working with The First Lady of Kenya, and as a part of their joint efforts to strengthen healthcare capacity in Kenya, they have provided 295 scholarships for Kenyan healthcare providers in 44 critical and underserved specialties, helping to transform the patient care landscape across the country.

Moreover, Merck Foundation in partnership with Kenya First Lady will provide almost 100 scholarships of one-year postgraduate diploma of critical nutrition for Kenyan doctors across the 47 counties of Kenya over the next four years as part of her Feed One, End Hunger Program.

Additionally, through the “Educating Linda” program, Merck Foundation is providing annual scholarships to 47 deserving yet underprivileged Kenyan schoolgirls, helping them continue their education and enabling them to reach their full potential.

“Congratulations once again on 16 years of impact, here’s to many more! #JoyfulAt16” added Dr. Rasha Kelej

– on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

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Vodacom M-Pesa Tanzania Launches Cross-Border payments across the Globe

Source: APO – Report:

Vodacom Tanzania (www.Vodacom.com), the country’s leading telco company, is revolutionizing cross-border trade and digital financial inclusion with the launch of M-Pesa Global Payment. In partnership with VISA, Alipay, Network International, Magnati, and MTN Uganda, customers can now make global Tap & Pay transactions using the M-Pesa Visa tokenized card, pay merchants in China via Alipay, enabled by Thunes, transact in Dubai through TerraPay-supported merchants, and pay merchants in Uganda directly into MTN MoMo wallets, powered by Thunes, all from the M-Pesa menu or the M-Pesa Super App

The process is secure, user-friendly, and eliminates the burden of traditional banking barriers for traders and businesses. Combined, these solutions position M-Pesa as one of the most advanced digital payment systems in Africa.

These innovations respond to the growing demand from Tanzanian customers and travelers who frequently transact across East Africa, the Middle East, Asia and globally, but often face challenges with costly, slow, or insecure payment processes. “Our partnerships with VISA, Alipay, Network Internal and MTN Uganda demonstrate our commitment to building a strong and interconnected digital payments ecosystem. Together, we are enabling people and businesses to transact across borders with the same ease as they transact locally, securely, instantly, and affordably. This is central to M-Pesa’s Purpose deepening financial inclusion and ensuring that digital innovation benefits every micro, small and medium enterprise. Through this combined effort, we are opening new trade corridors, reducing the cost of doing business, and giving customers greater freedom to participate in the global digital economy” said Epimack Mbeteni, M-Pesa Director at Vodacom Tanzania

This launch introduces the new M-Pesa Tap & Pay Solution with Visa, the first of its kind in Africa, enabling customers to pay worldwide using their phones through the M-Pesa Visa card. Speaking on the M-Pesa Tap & Pay innovation, Victor Makere, Visa Country manager for Tanzania said: “Through our collaboration, we are enabling millions of M-Pesa customers to experience secure, seamless, contactless payments anywhere Visa is accepted. Tokenization brings an added layer of safety and convenience allowing customers to Tap & Pay globally using their mobile phones without exposing their card details. This innovation supports Tanzania’s transition toward a fully digital payments ecosystem and empowers consumers and businesses with more modern ways to pay.”

Through Thunes’ Direct Global Network, M-Pesa customers can now pay merchants in China within the Alipay ecosystem, supporting fast, secure international trade. Speaking on the role of Thunes in enabling payments to China, Andrew Stewart, Chief Revenue Officer at Thunes, added: “Digitizing cross-border payments is a game-changer for accessibility, and supports our mission to enable the next billion end users to take part in the global economy. Together with Vodacom, we are making it possible for Tanzanian businesses to pay Chinese merchants instantly through the Alipay network. This new level of interoperability and innovation strengthens trust in mobile financial ecosystems and opens new avenues for international trade.”

TerraPay powers international merchant payments, including the ability for M-Pesa users to transact with select merchants in Dubai through its global payment network. Speaking on the value of the Dubai payment corridor, Willie Kanyeki, Vice President of Sub-Saharan Africa at TerraPay, said, “At TerraPay, we believe in interoperability and enabling borderless payments. Our partnership with Vodacom expands secure digital commerce opportunities for Tanzanians doing business in Dubai, connecting African consumers to new global markets.”

As the enabling partner for merchant payments in Uganda through MTN MoMo, MTN plays a vital role in simplifying regional trade for SMEs across East Africa. Richard Yego, MTN Mobile Money Uganda Director, welcomed the collaboration saying, “This partnership marks a major stride toward seamless regional trade. Together with Vodacom, we are unlocking greater financial access for thousands of cross-border traders in Uganda and Tanzania, especially SMEs who are the backbone of our economies.”

With robust mobile money usage and mobile penetration in Tanzania, these solutions serve as strategic drivers for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and everyday consumers who need dependable, fast, and convenient financial tools.

As M-Pesa expands into a robust international payment platform, Vodacom Tanzania remains committed to building an inclusive digital economy and transforming lives through technology.

– on behalf of Vodacom Group.

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Distance learning changes lives, but comes with its own challenges

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Ashley Gunter, Professor, University of South Africa

Across Africa, distance education has become one of the most powerful forces for expanding access to higher learning. Open and distance learning institutions such as the Open University of Tanzania, the Zimbabwe Open University and the National Open University of Nigeria have joined long-standing providers like the University of South Africa in offering flexible study opportunities to millions of students who would otherwise be excluded from higher education.

These institutions are reimagining what it means to go to university in contexts where geography, cost and social responsibilities often keep young people out of the classroom.

Read more: How place of birth shapes chances of going to university: evidence from 7 African countries

The value of distance education is undeniable. It allows working adults to continue their studies without leaving employment, gives rural youth the chance to stay in their communities while earning qualifications, and provides people with opportunities to balance learning alongside family responsibilities. During crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, distance education proved to be a lifeline when face-to-face teaching was impossible.

Across the continent, it is not simply an alternative to traditional universities; for many, it is the only route into higher education.

The World Bank has reported that only 9% of the African population in the five years after secondary school is enrolled in tertiary education – the lowest rate in the world.

My own research takes the University of South Africa (Unisa) as a case study to dig deeper into how geography and inequality shape students’ experiences of distance learning: their access, participation, and outcomes. With over 370,000 students in South Africa and other countries, Unisa is the continent’s largest provider. It’s an ideal lens through which to understand both the promise and the challenges of this educational model.

I’m a geographer with an interest in international education and economic development. For the Unisa case study, I took a qualitative research approach, interviewing 28 Unisa postgraduate students from different regions of Africa. I chose them to reflect the diversity of students enrolled at Unisa and because they already had experience of studying.

The study found that although distance education can meet educational needs where people can’t access face-to-face learning, it’s not a perfect solution. There are still challenges which make it hard for some people to study, like inadequate infrastructure (poor internet connectivity and electricity supply), financial constraints, and language and cultural barriers. There’s a need for interventions to improve the effectiveness and equity of distance education.

Experiences of distance education

My interviews with postgraduate students across Africa showed a complex picture. For the 18 students based in cities, distance education can be genuinely empowering. Internet connections, though costly, are usually accessible in cities. Electricity supply is more stable, and digital platforms are within reach. Students in urban areas spoke of the freedom and flexibility they gained, describing distance education as the only way to balance work, family life and study.

But geography matters. For students in rural or marginalised regions, participation in distance learning can become a daily struggle.

Downloading a file may take hours. Travelling long distances to internet cafés eats into scarce time and resources. A student in Zimbabwe explained how he missed deadlines simply because the university portal would not load in his village. Another said:

Some days I feel like I’m learning less and figuring out how to connect more.

Another, in Kenya, described travelling to Nairobi every two weeks to collect academic materials. She felt the sacrifice was worth it because she knew education could change her life. For others:

I begin to wonder if it’s really worth it.

These obstacles, however, underline rather than diminish the value of distance education. Students are willing to endure enormous effort and cost to access learning because they believe in its power to transform their futures. Their determination is itself evidence of the demand for and importance of this model of education.

Still, the barriers are real. High data prices, unstable internet, and unreliable electricity continue to limit access. Women in rural areas often face additional responsibilities that leave them with little time or energy to study.

It’s hard to keep up with my guy classmates who don’t face the same rules at home.

And the flexibility that makes distance education attractive can sometimes turn into a sense of isolation when students don’t have peer support.

I feel alone a lot. Even when I try to share, they don’t seem to understand what I’m facing.

Persistent inequities in distance education

Distance education can actually keep existing inequities in place, because students from wealthier, urban backgrounds are better positioned to succeed than rural students are.

My study also revealed how the realities of students’ lives not only affect their ability to use digital tools but also their sense of belonging to the academic community. There is a growing digital divide within distance education itself.

The task ahead is to make sure that these challenges do not undercut the progress distance education has already made. Over the past decade, distance education has expanded access, increased enrolment far beyond the capacity of traditional campuses, and improved the quality of digital teaching, learner support, and flexible study pathways.

Investment in affordable broadband and electricity is essential, particularly in rural and underserved regions. Financial aid needs to cover the hidden costs of learning, from devices to data. Outreach centres should be located closer to marginalised communities, and policies must explicitly address the gendered realities that shape women’s access to higher education.

Read more: Hunger among South African students: study shows those studying remotely need financial aid for food

Across Africa, open universities have already demonstrated how distance education can widen participation and build inclusive futures. Unisa’s story, and the experiences of its students, highlight both the opportunities and the work still to be done.

Geography continues to shape who can learn, but it does not have to decide who gets left behind. With the right investments and policies, distance education can move closer to fulfilling its full promise: to provide equitable, life-changing access to higher learning for all.

– Distance learning changes lives, but comes with its own challenges
– https://theconversation.com/distance-learning-changes-lives-but-comes-with-its-own-challenges-266431

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30e Conférence des Nations unies sur les changements climatiques (COP 30) : la Banque africaine de développement renforce ses investissements dans le nexus climat-paix-sécurité

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le dérèglement climatique, dont l’Afrique est la première victime, exacerbe les défis sécuritaires graves et croissants sur le continent, notamment en matière de terrorisme, de conflits armés et de conflits intercommunautaires, menaçant la stabilité, voire la survie même des populations. En effet, non seulement neuf des dix pays les plus vulnérables face au changement climatique dans le monde se trouvent en Afrique, mais aussi douze des dix-neuf pays les plus affectés par les conflits armés et neuf des vingt pays en situation de fragilité institutionnelle et sociale sont situés sur le continent.

Pour prendre en compte le nexus climat-paix-sécurité, le Bureau des Nations unies auprès de l’Union africaine, la Commission économique des Nations unies pour l’Afrique et la Commission de l’Union africaine ont organisé, le 14 novembre 2025 à Belém, où se tient la 30e Conférence des Nations unies sur les changements climatiques (COP 30), une table ronde sur le thème : « S’adapter pour la stabilité – Développer les partenariats pour la paix et la résilience climatique en Afrique ».

L’événement a réuni des représentants d’organisations internationales, d’institutions de financement du développement, de la société civile et des acteurs de développement.

« Le changement climatique amplifie les conflits et la fragilité sur le continent. En 2024 seulement, les catastrophes climatiques ont provoqué 9,8 millions de nouveaux déplacements internes en Afrique, soulignant à quel point les risques climatiques et la mobilité forcée sont profondément interconnectés », a déclaré Al Hamndou Dorsouma, chef de la division Climat et Croissance verte au sein du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement. « La baisse et l’irrégularité des précipitations, ainsi que la rareté de l’eau, ont modifié les schémas migratoires saisonniers des communautés pastorales africaines, augmentant la concurrence entre groupes pastoraux et entre communautés pastorales et agricoles. Cela a entraîné des conflits récurrents dans presque toutes les régions du continent, de l’Éthiopie au Darfour, du Kenya au Nigéria, et dans tout le Sahel », a-t-il ajouté.

« Il n’y a pas de mise en œuvre de projets climatiques sans paix ; on ne peut pas lutter contre les changements climatiques sans paix », a souligné Nazanine Moshiri, conseillère principale en partenariats stratégiques pour le climat et la paix à la Fondation Berghof.

« En tant qu’institution financière de développement majeure sur le continent, le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement est pleinement engagé à travailler avec les pays africains et les partenaires du développement pour renforcer la résilience climatique tout en traitant les causes profondes des conflits et de la fragilité », a assuré M. Dorsouma.

« J’invite nos collègues et partenaires ici présents, ainsi que ceux en ligne, à concentrer nos efforts sur le financement : investir dans les systèmes d’alerte précoce et les mesures d’adaptation est non seulement un impératif humanitaire, mais aussi une solution économiquement rationnelle et durable. Car, chaque dollar investi dans l’adaptation et la résilience climatiques génère deux à dix dollars de retour sur investissement », a ajouté M. Dorsouma.

Selon le directeur du Centre de prévision et d’applications climatiques de l’Autorité intergouvernementale pour le développement (IGAD), Abdi Fidar, il est désormais difficile de séparer le nexus sécurité-climat, car les zones fragiles ne bénéficient pas de financements climatiques.

La réponse de la Banque africaine de développement au nexus climat-paix-sécurité est de trois ordres, a détaillé, M. Dorsouma. D’abord, à travers sa Stratégie sur la fragilité et la résilience, et sa Facilité d’appui à la transition (FAT), un mécanisme de financement concessionnel destiné à 37 pays africains à faibles revenus et vivant en situations de fragilité. La Banque dispose, en outre, d’un Cadre stratégique sur le changement climatique et la croissance verte à l’horizon 2030 qui a placé la question du nexus climat-paix-sécurité au centre de ses priorités en matière d’adaptation au changement climatique en Afrique.

L’institution panafricaine de développement a récemment introduit des innovations en matière de conception de ses opérations en tenant compte des dimensions de fragilité et de vulnérabilité climatique, et surtout d’accroissement des ressources financières pour l’adaptation et la résilience. En 2023, le Groupe de la Banque a lancé, le Guichet d’action climatique (https://apo-opa.co/4roMgzN) dans le cadre du Fonds africain de développement, doté de quelques 450 millions de dollars. En une année d’opérations, le Guichet a déjà soutenu 59 projets d’action climatique dans les pays africains vivant en situation de fragilité et de vulnérabilité climatique, dont 41 axés sur l’adaptation et 18 sur l’atténuation, pour une valeur cumulée de 386 millions de dollars, a détaillé M. Dorsouma, qui a cité d’autres instruments mis en place pour faire face à la problématique climat-sécurité.

« Renforcer la résilience tout en traitant la fragilité exige une action conjointe à travers tout le spectre allant de l’aide humanitaire à la consolidation de la paix, mais surtout en mettant l’accent sur les efforts en matière de développement climato-résilient, seul gage pour sauvegarder les acquis de développement déjà obtenus et éviter que le changement climatique ne continue à amplifier la fragilité et remettre en cause les efforts dans l’atteinte du développement durable. J’appelle chacun d’entre nous à redoubler d’efforts pour bâtir une Afrique plus résiliente face au climat et plus pacifique », a déclaré le représentant du Groupe de la Banque.

Charles Mwangi, responsable des programmes à l’Alliance panafricaine pour la justice climatique a expliqué que la société civile, souvent la plus proche des communautés touchées, devait être prise en compte dans les discussions et la définition des politiques nationales, continentales et mondiales sur le climat, la paix et la sécurité afin d’écarter les risques et les injustices locales pouvant être à l’origine des conflits.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

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Le Sommet libyen sur l’énergie et l’économie (LEES) 2026 mettra en avant l’engagement des entreprises américaines alors que celles-ci réaffirment leur engagement envers l’avenir énergétique de la Libye

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Sommet libyen sur l’énergie et l’économie (LEES) 2026, qui se tiendra du 24 au 26 janvier à Tripoli, témoignera d’un regain d’intérêt des États-Unis, alors que les entreprises américaines renouent avec les secteurs pétrolier, gazier et des infrastructures en Libye. Cette année marque un moment important pour la dynamique d’investissement américaine, renforcée par l’élargissement des programmes commerciaux et des dialogues stratégiques, qui témoigne d’une confiance renouvelée dans les marchés libyens du pétrole, du gaz et des infrastructures, et marque un changement stratégique dans la manière dont les grandes entreprises américaines abordent la région. 

L’un des moments forts du sommet sera une table ronde consacrée aux États-Unis et à la Libye, ainsi qu’un pavillon américain, soulignant l’engagement croissant des institutions et des entreprises en faveur de l’avenir énergétique de la Libye. Les discussions porteront sur la collaboration dans les domaines de l’exploration, du réaménagement des champs et des services énergétiques, en mettant l’accent sur les domaines dans lesquels les entreprises américaines peuvent apporter une valeur ajoutée unique, qu’il s’agisse de technologies de pointe, de formation de la main-d’œuvre ou d’innovation dans les infrastructures gazières et intermédiaires. Grâce à ces contributions, les investissements américains peuvent accélérer le transfert de technologies, renforcer les chaînes d’approvisionnement locales et soutenir les objectifs plus larges de la Libye en matière de développement industriel et de transition énergétique. Parallèlement, le pavillon accueillera un large éventail d’entreprises américaines, d’associations industrielles et de prestataires de services techniques, offrant une plateforme pour des partenariats dans les domaines de l’amont, du midstream, du downstream et du développement des infrastructures. 

Les leaders du secteur ConocoPhillips et SLB occuperont une place prépondérante au salon LEES 2026, reflétant ainsi le regain d’intérêt des investisseurs américains. ConocoPhillips, partenaire clé de la Waha Oil Company, continue de soutenir d’importants efforts de réaménagement visant à augmenter la production dans l’une des concessions les plus stratégiques de Libye. SLB, l’un des fournisseurs de technologies et de services les plus actifs en Libye, renforce sa collaboration avec la CNP afin d’améliorer la production de pétrole brut, de moderniser les opérations et de soutenir les objectifs de durabilité à long terme du pays. La société déploie des technologies avancées de forage, de placement de puits et d’optimisation de la production dans les champs prioritaires, tout en étendant sa présence grâce à de nouveaux contrats, notamment un accord historique pour le forage de trois puits dans les champs de Nesr et d’Al-Waha. Hill International, quant à elle, a récemment obtenu un contrat de 235 millions de dollars pour le projet de champ gazier Structures A&E, qui s’inscrit dans le cadre d’un programme de plusieurs milliards de dollars visant à renforcer la capacité de production de gaz naturel de la Libye. 

Halliburton, Baker Hughes et ExxonMobil se joindront à ces acteurs. Tous renforcent leur engagement auprès de la CNP et évaluent de nouvelles opportunités commerciales, techniques et d’exploration. ExxonMobil a récemment signé un protocole d’accord avec la CNP pour mener des études géologiques et géophysiques couvrant quatre blocs offshore dans le nord-ouest et le bassin de Sire, reflétant ainsi son intérêt analytique et son évaluation préliminaire du potentiel de partenariat futur. La société devrait également participer au cycle actuel d’octroi de licences en Libye, qui couvre 22 blocs onshore et offshore. 

Chevron est également revenu sur le devant de la scène à l’approche du salon LEES 2026. À la suite de discussions de haut niveau à Londres, la CNP a confirmé que Chevron manifestait un intérêt sérieux pour un retour en Libye après une interruption de 15 ans. Les discussions ont porté sur la coopération en matière d’exploration, de ressources non conventionnelles et de réservoirs non exploités, les responsables libyens soulignant le potentiel considérable inexploité du pays dans les domaines du pétrole et du gaz naturel. 

La programmation technique constituera un autre pilier majeur de l’engagement américain. La Society of Petroleum Engineers Libya organisera des sessions techniques le 24 janvier, au cours desquelles seront abordés les thèmes suivants : récupération assistée du pétrole, réaménagement des champs, stratégies de développement des champs marginaux et numérisation des champs pétrolifères libyens. Les 25 et 26 janvier, S&P Global Commodity Insights animera des sessions techniques spécialisées couvrant les informations sur le marché, les tendances de production, la monétisation des ressources et les perspectives énergétiques mondiales pertinentes pour la planification future de la Libye. Ces sessions sont conçues pour attirer l’exploration active et soutenir l’objectif ambitieux de la CNP de 2 millions de barils par jour d’ici 2030. 

La participation institutionnelle viendra compléter l’implication du secteur privé. L’ambassade des États-Unis, qui devrait participer au LEES 2026, soutient le renforcement de la coopération commerciale entre les deux pays, encourageant une gouvernance transparente et renforçant l’engagement économique bilatéral. La Chambre de commerce américaine (AmCham) en Libye, une fois de plus partenaire stratégique du sommet, continue de promouvoir la participation des entreprises américaines après son forum à Washington D.C. qui a mis en avant les opportunités dans les domaines des hydrocarbures, des énergies renouvelables et des infrastructures. 

« La table ronde États-Unis-Libye marque un tournant décisif dans les relations commerciales », déclare James Chester, PDG d’Energy Capital & Power. « Les entreprises américaines investissent aujourd’hui en Libye comme elles ne l’avaient pas fait depuis des décennies, favorisant le transfert de technologies, garantissant une production à long terme et aidant le pays à exploiter pleinement son potentiel énergétique. » 

Avec l’intérêt croissant pour l’exploration, le redéveloppement en cours et plusieurs grandes entreprises et prestataires de services américains qui réévaluent leur entrée sur le marché, la table ronde États-Unis-Libye au LEES 2026 servira de plateforme essentielle pour consolider cette dynamique et définir une feuille de route à long terme pour une croissance durable sur l’un des marchés énergétiques les plus prometteurs d’Afrique du Nord. Avec 18 entreprises américaines présentes dans le pavillon national lors de la précédente édition du LEES, la dynamique devrait s’intensifier considérablement l’année prochaine. Ensemble, ces développements marquent un tournant stratégique, les entreprises américaines jouant un rôle de premier plan dans l’avenir énergétique de la Libye en déployant des capitaux, des technologies et une expertise à une échelle sans précédent. 

Rejoignez les leaders du secteur lors du Sommet sur l’énergie et l’économie en Libye 2026 à Tripoli et explorez les opportunités d’investissement sur l’un des marchés énergétiques les plus dynamiques d’Afrique du Nord. LEES 2026 offre une plateforme de premier ordre pour les partenariats, l’innovation et la croissance du secteur. Rendez-vous sur www.LibyaSummit.com pour assurer votre participation. Pour sponsoriser ou participer en tant que délégué, veuillez contacter sales@energycapitalpower.com. 

Distribué par APO Group pour Energy Capital & Power.

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