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The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST) Africa and Absa Announce 20 Semi-finalists for the MEST Africa Challenge 2025

Source: APO

Twenty startups have been named semi-finalists in the MEST Africa Challenge (MAC) 2025, announced today by MEST Africa (www.Meltwater.org) in partnership with Absa, highlighting the continent’s most promising ventures in FinTech and other high-value chain solutions.

Now in its 7th edition, the Challenge brings to life the theme “You Build, We Scale” — inspiring founders to transform bold ideas into scalable financial solutions across Absa’s eight priority markets: Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Uganda, and Zambia.

The selected ventures are addressing some of the continent’s most pressing financial innovation needs — spanning next-generation payments, smart credit solutions, cross-border trade, agri-fintech, and digital financial literacy.

“Each of these founders represents a unique path toward reimagining how finance works for Africans,” said Ashwin Ravichandran, Portfolio Advisor at MEST Africa and MAC Lead. “Their ideas pair technology with empathy, proving that lasting change comes from solving real problems within their own communities. We’re proud to provide a platform that connects them with investors, mentors, and global opportunities.”

As MEST Africa’s strategic partner for the 2025 edition of MAC, Absa continues to play a pivotal role in driving digital innovation in financial services and inclusion across Africa. The partnership underscores a shared commitment to empowering entrepreneurs who are redefining financial access for individuals and businesses alike.

“Congratulations to the top 20 finalists and to all applicants. The quality of submissions has been exceptional, showcasing the depth of innovation and entrepreneurial drive across Africa. These startups are not only solving real challenges; they’re building the foundation for inclusive growth and lasting impact. Our partnership with MEST and our active participation in the MEST Africa Challenge 2025 reflect our commitment to open collaboration within the FinTech ecosystem. At Absa, we see ourselves as partners in this journey, guided by a purpose to make banking simpler, more accessible, and more relevant for our customers,” says Tawanda Chatikobo, Head of Digital for Absa Regional Operations (ARO), Retail and Business Banking.

From hundreds of brilliant ideas, these 20 standout startups have emerged to advance in the MEST Africa Challenge 2025.

Botswana

  • mystock.africa – A retail investing platform giving Africans access to stocks, ETFs, and alternative assets.

Ghana

  • Brydge – A supply chain platform simplifying cross-border trade for African businesses.
  • Kutana Technologies Limited – A multi-currency payment platform powering B2B cross-border trade using stablecoins and AI-driven credit.

Kenya

  • Logistify AI – An AI platform helping SMEs and cooperatives optimize procurement and supply chains.
  • Farmsky Ventures – A digital lending and crop insurance platform boosting productivity for smallholder farmers.
  • Investa Farm – An Agri-FinTech platform offering voucher-backed loans for climate-resilient farm inputs.

Mauritius

  • Black Swan – Uses AI and alternative data to build credit scores for Africa’s unbanked population.

Mozambique

  • Simulador Bancário – A digital platform simplifying financial planning and loan simulations.

Uganda

  • Paytota – A unified payment gateway simplifying Africa’s fragmented digital payments ecosystem.
  • Xzerra – A biometric payment system enabling cashless, fingerprint-based transactions in schools.
  • Kanzu Finance Limited – A digital banking solution for Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations, Village Savings and Loan Associations, and microfinance institutions.
  • Axiom Zorn – A data innovation company enabling access to finance and markets for smallholder farmers.
  • Credify Africa, Inc – A trade finance and logistics platform bridging Africa’s SME finance gap.
  • eMaisha Pay – A digital payments platform for agro-traders and small businesses, driving financial inclusion.

Zambia

  • Ebusaka Green Technology Limited – A FinTech-powered waste-to-value platform digitizing payments and recycling incentives.
  • KreativBox Technology – digital lending company offering salary-backed loans to civil servants.
  • Mighty Finance Solution Inc – Provides embedded digital loans to SMEs and women entrepreneurs.
  • Devdraft Ai – A cross-border payments platform for freelancers and businesses using stablecoin wallets.
  • Homer Price Agency Solutions Limited – A digital banking provider operating 550+ agents nationwide.

Seychelles

  • Fusepay – A licensed Payment Service Provider creating a digital finance hub for frontier markets.

The 20 semi-finalists will pitch virtually during the week of October 27, 2025, with only the top 10 startups advancing to the Final Demo Day in Cape Town, South Africa, on November 26, 2025. The overall winner will receive USD $50,000 in equity investment, access to MEST Africa’s global network of mentors, partners, and investors, and the opportunity to explore pilot pathways with Absa’s business units.

“Through this challenge, we’re seeing solutions that are not only innovative but strategically aligned with Africa’s evolving technology landscape. Some of these ideas have the potential to accelerate digital transformation and unlock new value for our customers,” says Tamu Dutuma, Head of Strategy and Transformation for ARO Technology.

Since 2008, MEST Africa has trained and supported over 2,000 entrepreneurs and invested in 90+ startups. The MEST Africa Challenge (MAC) is its flagship pan-African pitch competition designed to identify, support, and scale high-potential technology ventures.

For more information on MAC 2025, visit: https://apo-opa.co/48ZEm9t

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST Africa).

Media Contact (MEST Africa):
Ophesmur Naa Adjeley Adjei
Marketing and Communications Manager
marketing@meltwater.org

About MEST Africa:
Established in 2008 as the non‑profit arm of Meltwater, the Meltwater Foundation drives job creation and economic growth in Africa through software entrepreneurship. Headquartered in Accra, Ghana, the Foundation’s Entrepreneurial Support Organisation—MEST—delivers a full-time, in-person intensive tech‑entrepreneurship training to emerging talent from more than 22 African countries and provides early‑stage investment to promising ventures. To extend this impact, the Foundation launched MESTx, a suite of collaborative programs designed and delivered with like‑minded partners to expand digital‑skills training and startup acceleration across the continent. Since its inception, the Meltwater Foundation has trained 2,000+ entrepreneurs and invested in 90+ startups across the continent—fueling innovation, creating jobs, and shaping Africa’s next generation of tech entrepreneurs. Learn more about MEST Africa: www.Meltwater.org

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South Africa, Indonesia agree to deepen bilateral economic relations

Source: Government of South Africa

By Neo Bodumela

Jakarta, Indonesia – South Africa and Indonesia have affirmed a shared commitment on the need to bolster trade between the two countries in order to drive mutual inclusive economic growth. 

This according to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who addressed media at a joint press briefing following bilateral talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto during his State Visit to Indonesia.

Indonesia is South Africa’s third largest trading partner in the Southeast Asia region, with South African exports to that country standing at R10.5 billion and Indonesian imports amounting to R16.9 billion.

“During our discussions, we affirmed the importance of expanding and deepening bilateral relations on both political and economic fronts through existing bilateral mechanisms.

“We agreed on the need to increase trade between our two countries as a catalyst for inclusive economic growth. We spoke of the importance of building more resilient and diversified economies for the benefit of the peoples of both countries, as we face similar geopolitical headwinds,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa was accompanied by the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga; Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau; Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen and Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes.

A South African business delegation was also in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta, and took part in the South Africa-Indonesia Business Forum “with a view to building new commercial partnerships between our two countries”. 

READ | SA, Indonesia to deepen historical ties during Official State Visit

World stage

Discussions also turned to global issues, as both countries are part of organisations including BRICS, the G20 and the Non-Aligned Movement.

“We affirmed the need to strengthen the multilateral system and the peaceful resolution of conflict through dialogue.

“We exchanged views on efforts to end the conflict in Gaza and to secure a just and lasting peace that realises the aspirations of the Palestinian people for self-determination,” he said.

President Ramaphosa noted that South Africa – as President of the G20 – is “looking forward” to hosting President Subianto during the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit to be held in Johannesburg in November.

“Through our G20 Presidency, we have focused on the measures we should all take together to create an environment of inclusive growth, reduced inequality and sustainable development, especially in the Global South and on the African continent,” he noted.

Furthermore, an invitation has been extended for the Indonesian leader to embark on a State Visit to South Africa at a “mutually agreed date”.

“Indonesia and South Africa share bonds of great historical significance.

“It is clear from our engagements today that we also share a common future, of progress, development and prosperity for all,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Indonesia a "steadfast ally" during South Africa’s struggle

Source: Government of South Africa

By Neo Bodumela

Jakarta, Indonesia – President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed the Republic of Indonesia for its longstanding solidarity with South Africa and acknowledged the role that the Asian country played as an ally during the struggle against apartheid.

The President was delivering opening remarks during bilateral talks as part of his State Visit to Indonesia on Wednesday.

The Southeast Asian country was also the scene of the first Asia-Africa Conference – called the Bandung Conference – some 70 years ago which was attended by newly independent states and representatives of the struggle against apartheid in South Africa.

“The Bandung Conference of 1955 was a great inspiration and a source of encouragement to the leaders of our liberation struggle who were present there.

“For all these years, the people of South Africa found a steadfast ally in Indonesia which consistently supported the struggle against apartheid. We will forever remain grateful for the support and the solidarity of the people of Indonesia,” President Ramaphosa said.

Now, the two countries form part of the world’s intergovernmental organisations such as the BRICS+ group of countries.

“We look forward to working closely with Indonesia and all other BRICS countries and partner countries on shared priorities such as driving much needed global reforms. 

“The BRICS economic partnership also provides a great potential to support development and transformation in our countries, and we encourage the deepening of Indonesia’s participation in all BRICS structures – particularly in the BRICS economic partnership.

“This could also be the catalyst for the growth of bilateral economic relations between our two countries which we look forward to,” the President said.

The two countries are also part of the G20 Forum which South Africa currently holds the Presidency for.

“We appreciate Indonesia’s representation and contribution to the G20. We are especially pleased that Your Excellency will participate in the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, later this coming month. 

“We must say that Indonesia’s presence at the G20 is so key and important as it lifts the stature of the G20. Particularly when countries like your country and South Africa – key countries in the global South – participate in such fora,” he said.

Enhancing trade

President Ramaphosa is accompanied on the State Visit by Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga, Department of Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Parks Tau, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen and Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes.

This, he emphasised, is a “clear demonstration of our shared commitment to deepening cooperation between the two countries” including on trade.

President Ramaphosa described South Africa as a “gateway to the continent…well positioned to serve as a strategic base for Indonesian investment and trade expansion into Africa”. 

“In light of recent global trade tensions, including the imposition of tariffs by major economies, it is increasingly important for countries like ours to strengthen South–South trade and economic cooperation.

“Enhancing bilateral trade ties and expanding market access between South Africa and Indonesia is both a strategic imperative and a practical response to shifting global dynamics.

“Our partnership can help build more resilient and diversified economies and unlock new opportunities for inclusive growth,” he added.

The two countries have enjoyed cordial relations for decades and South Africa “remains committed to working closely with Indonesia to further expand and deepen our political, economic and sectoral cooperation”. 

“We would like to see our two countries finalise and implement existing agreements. This will elevate bilateral relations between South Africa and Indonesia, based on mutual political trust and partnership.

“This instrument will serve as a foundation for deepening our cooperation and delivering tangible benefits to our peoples.

“Let us use this moment to reaffirm our shared values, strengthen our strategic alignment and build a partnership that contributes meaningfully to peace, prosperity and sustainable development,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Concern over Matlosana Fresh Produce Market operations

Source: Government of South Africa

Agriculture Minister John Steenhusien has expressed concern over fluctuating and inconsistent payments by the Matlosana Local Municipality to the local fresh produce market.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Minister said that the inconsistent payments by the municipality have destabilised operations at the Matlosana Fresh Produce Market where at one point, arrears owed to market agents had climbed to R7 million in August 2025.

“The Minister… expressed his grave concern over the growing crisis at the Matlosana Fresh Produce Market, which is the result of the City of Matlosana Local Municipality’s ongoing non-compliance with a high court order issued over four years ago,” said the Department of Agriculture.

Matlosana is located in the North West province.

Issued in March 2021, the court order mandates that 95% of daily produce sales revenue be transferred to registered fresh produce market agents within 48 hours. The department added that owing to the continued failures, market agents are being forced to pay the municipality’s debt in advance to producers from their own trust accounts. 

Market agents also risk being in breach of the Agricultural Produce Agents Act, 1992 (Act No. 12 of 1992) as they cannot meet their statutory obligation to pay producers within five business days. Additionally, major suppliers have already withdrawn produce worth millions, threatening the market’s viability and food security.

“We require immediate, decisive action from the regulatory body to protect our producers and agents,” said the Minister.

This as the Minister has escalated the issue to the national regulatory body, the Agricultural Produce Agents Council (APAC), requesting an urgent and comprehensive regulatory response, including the following:
•    An assessment of the municipality’s continued role in administering trust monies given its repeated breaches
•    Consideration of measures to protect agents and producers from further prejudice, including whether interim controls or oversight over the Freshmark system should be instituted
•    Advice on potential amendments or enforcement actions required under the Agricultural Produce Agents Act, 1992 (Act No. 12 of 1992) to prevent recurrence of such failures

APAC indicated that it would respond soon to indicate the proposed way forward.

As part of efforts to resolve the matter, Steenhuisen wrote to the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, and the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, alerting them to the City of Matlosana Local Municipality’s failure to comply with the court order.|

“Minister Hlabisa has indicated that the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs’s Directorate: Local Government Operations and Support (LGOS) held a meeting with the Matlosana Fresh Produce Market on 29 September 2025, and he is expecting to receive a report from LGOS by the end of the week,” said the Department of Agriculture.

This as Steenhuisen stressed that the collapse of a regulated market system such as Matlosana would not only harm producers and consumers in the region but also erode confidence in the broader national fresh produce market framework.-SAnews.gov.za 
 

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B-BBEE "remains a key policy of the State"

Source: Government of South Africa

Government has reaffirmed that Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) remains a key policy instrument of the State. 

“The policy remains central to South Africa’s economic transformation and forms part of South Africa’s long-term strategy to redress historic injustices, broaden economic participation, and build a truly inclusive economy,” said Acting Government spokesperson Sandile Nene on Tuesday. 

Nene explained that the B-BBEE Act followed all the prescribed requirements – from the drafting by the Department of Trade and Industry, through to parliamentary procedures, public consultations, presidential assent, and publication. 

“This Act is, therefore, a product of democratic processes. If any person requires a change of policy or law, then the appropriate channels and processes should be followed,” he said. 

Nene said as part of the Government of National Unity (GNU), all parties within this collective administration share a responsibility to advance policies that contribute to economic transformation and sustainable development. 

“B-BBEE, therefore, is not prejudiced. Rather, it is a constitutional and moral imperative rooted in South Africa’s commitment to equality, fairness and redress of the imbalances of the past. 

“Despite the progress made over the past three decades, the disparities in ownership, management, and income distribution remain stark,” Nene said. 

The policy, Nene said, continues to serve as a mechanism through which government works to level the playing field, ensuring that the previously disadvantaged and discriminated South Africans, especially women, youth, and persons with disabilities, are meaningfully included in the mainstream economy. 

“Importantly, the ongoing refinement of empowerment policies is part of government’s effort to ensure that implementation is effective, transparent, and aligned with national development priorities. 

“The success of any economy rests with wider inclusion and participation of the masses of the population. Government remains steadfast in advancing an inclusive economy that works for all South Africans. 

“The B-BBEE framework continues to be a central pillar in achieving this goal, addressing the inequalities of the past, while unlocking the potential of every citizen to contribute to South Africa’s growth and prosperity,” Nene said.

The country’s empowerment laws, particularly the B-BBEE legal framework, have come under public and media debate over the past few months.

In his weekly newsletter released in June this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa said that empowerment laws are practical, feasible and responsive to “economic conditions, without deviating from the objective of redressing the economic injustices” of the past, when Africans and other people of colour were excluded from meaningful economic participation during apartheid.

The President explained that South African empowerment laws earn distinction in that the measures are “practical and innovative”. – SAnews.gov.za

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Deadlines for submission of comments on fixed electricity prices review extended

Source: Government of South Africa

The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has extended the deadline for written submissions and supporting evidence on the impact of Fixed Charges, the Generation Capacity Charge (GCC), and other related charges levied by electricity distributors, including Eskom and municipalities.

This market-wide inquiry responds to widespread concerns from customers and stakeholders about the impact of these charges, as well as the level of the increase imposed, and the structure and justification of these charges.

The market inquiry, launched following the publication of the Terms of Reference (TORs) on 25 September 2025, is being undertaken in terms of section 4(b)(ii) of the Electricity Regulation Act, 2006 (Act No. 4 of 2006), as amended, read with sections 2(b) and 4(a)(viii). 

It seeks to assess the formulation, application, and impact of fixed and capacity-based charges across the electricity distribution sector, particularly where these have resulted in increases exceeding the approved 12.74% tariff adjustment for Eskom.

“While NERSA appreciates the importance of this matter and the diligence required to provide meaningful inputs, it is equally mindful of the urgency with which the inquiry must be concluded. 

“The extension is therefore granted on the understanding that it will not compromise the quality or thoroughness of stakeholder submissions, while ensuring that the process remains on schedule for the timely delivery of findings and recommendations,” Regulator Member responsible for Electricity Regulation, Nomfundo Maseti, said on Tuesday.

Following the publication of the TOR, stakeholders were initially given until 25 October 2025 to submit their inputs. 

However, in response to numerous requests for more time to prepare comprehensive, evidence-based submissions, NERSA has extended the submission deadline to 8 November 2025.

“This extension recognises the complexity and significance of the issues under review and the need to ensure that all affected parties, including Eskom, municipalities, industry associations, and customers, can make meaningful contributions. 

“All requirements and submission procedures outlined in the original notice remain applicable,” NERSA said.

The TOR document is available on request from electricity.marketinquiry@nersa.org.za or on the NERSA website at www.nersa.org.za under ‘Select Industry > Electricity > Consultation > Documents’.

The public hearing to enable oral representations will proceed as originally scheduled on 17 November 2025, virtually via MS Teams and livestream on X and YouTube.

Through this inquiry, NERSA aims to reinforce regulatory stewardship, advance transparency, and support a sustainable, efficient electricity supply industry. –SAnews.gov.za

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NGOs, civil society groups invited to register for G20 Social Summit

Source: Government of South Africa

Registration is currently open for non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other civil society groups to participate in the Group of 20 (G20) Social Summit. 

This event is scheduled to take place from 18 – 20 November 2025 in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng.

The Social Summit, convened under South Africa’s G20 Presidency, aims to provide an inclusive platform that amplifies the voices of civil society, grassroots organisations, and communities.

The Social Summit, aligned with the G20 Presidency theme of ‘Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability’, will gather both formal and informal networks. These include youth groups, women’s organisations, individuals with disabilities, faith-based organisations, community forums, and other grassroots structures. 

The gathering will provide a platform for these groups to engage directly on global issues that impact daily life.

“Government calls on informal groups and community movements across South Africa, the African continent and globally to register and take part in this historic people’s summit,” the Department of International Relations and Cooperation said. 

“It is vital that global commitments are grounded in the lived experiences of communities.” 

The summit’s goal is to promote global solidarity, advance inclusive development, and produce a Leaders’ Declaration that reflects the aspirations and experiences of all citizens, particularly the most vulnerable among them.

Building on Brazil’s 2024 innovation of institutionalising civil society input into the G20, President Cyril Ramaphosa committed that South Africa would not only continue but also expand the Social Summit. 

Conceived as a people-centred platform, the summit will elevate issues of social development, equity, and inclusion to the same level of urgency as macroeconomic and financial concerns.

Interested participants are invited to register on the official G20 website at https://forms.office.com/r/tjdH1jBhxp by October 24, 2025. – SAnews.gov.za

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Western Cape condemns killing of taxi official

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, October 22, 2025

Western Cape MEC for Mobility, Isaac Sileku, has condemned the shooting that took place on the R300 in Cape Town on Monday that claimed the life of a minibus taxi official.

Reports indicate that the victim was a high ranking member of the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) and served as the chairperson of the association’s operating routes. 

He was ambushed while travelling towards Somerset West with his security guards.

“My deepest condolences go to the family, friends, and colleagues of the man who tragically lost his life in the shooting. This act of violence is deeply concerning and must be condemned in the strongest possible terms,” said Sileku.

The MEC has urged the public and industry stakeholders to avoid speculation regarding the motive behind the incident.

“We are not in a position to confirm whether the shooting is connected to the dispute between two mini-bus taxi associations affected by the extraordinary measures we were forced to take in temporarily closing 10 routes and lanes for a period of a month.” 

However, Sileku said the provincial department will await official confirmation from the South African Police Service (SAPS) before making further comments. 

Sileku also mentioned that daily monitoring systems on these routes will remain in place, ensuring stable operations with no reported disruptions since the routes reopened on 18 October 2025.

Last month, the provincial government suspended several taxi routes in the Cape Town metropolitan area for 30 days due to ongoing violence within the taxi industry. 

The closures, which began on 17 September 2025, were implemented under Section 91 of the National Land Transport Act (2009), affecting the areas of Mfuleni, Somerset West, Khayelitsha, Nomzamo, and Lwandle.

“Our focus remains on promoting peace, stability, and safety within the minibus taxi industry, and we will not tolerate any return to violence,” Sileku said.

The department continues to work closely with law enforcement agencies and industry stakeholders to maintain peace and ensure the safety of all road users in the Western Cape. – SAnews.gov.za

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National Basketball Association (NBA) Rosters Feature Record 135 International Players from Record-Tying 43 Countries across Six Continents

Source: APO

  • Opening-Night Rosters Feature More Than 55 Players Who Were Either Born in Africa or Have at Least One Parent from Africa
  • Fifth Consecutive Season with at Least 120 International Players and 12th Straight Season with at Least 100 International Players
  • All 30 Teams Feature at Least One International Player
  • Atlanta Hawks Have Record-Tying 10 International Players

The National Basketball Association (NBA) (www.NBA.com) today announced that a record 135 international players from a record-tying 43 countries across six continents are on opening-night rosters for the 2025-26 season.  Among the record 135 international players are more than 55 players who were either born in Africa or have at least one parent from Africa, including 2021 NBA champion and two-time Kia NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks; Greece; ties to Nigeria), 2022-23 Kia NBA MVP and seven-time NBA All-Star Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers; Cameroon), 2019 NBA champion and three-time NBA All-Star Pascal Siakam (Indiana Pacers; Cameroon) and 2023-24 Kia NBA Rookie of the Year and 2025 NBA All-Star Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs; France; ties to the Democratic Republic of the Congo).

Opening-night rosters feature at least 120 international players for the fifth consecutive season and at least 100 international players for the 12th straight season.  All 30 NBA teams feature at least one international player.  The previous record for international players (125) and the record for countries and territories represented (43) were set at the start of the 2023-24 and 2017-18 seasons, respectively.

Canada (23 players), headlined by 2025 NBA champion and 2024-25 Kia NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder), is the most-represented country outside the U.S. for the 12th consecutive season, followed by France, Australia, Germany (7) and Serbia (6).

The Atlanta Hawks feature a record-tying 10 international players, followed by the Portland Trail Blazers and Golden State Warriors with seven apiece.

Below are additional international player milestones and storylines for the upcoming season:

  • Four international players have won the last seven Kia NBA MVP Awards: Gilgeous-Alexander (2024-25), 2023-24 Kia NBA Rookie of the Year and 2025 NBA All-Star Nikola Jokić (2023-24, 2021-22 and 2020-21), Embiid (2022-23) and Antetokounmpo (2019-20 and 2018-19).  Last season also marked the fourth consecutive season that three international players finished top three in MVP voting: Gilgeous-Alexander (No. 1), Jokić (No. 2) and Antetokounmpo (No. 3).
  • There are a record 16 international players on opening-night rosters who have been NBA All-Stars: Antetokounmpo, five-time NBA All-Star and Kia All-NBA First Team member Luka Dončić (Los Angeles Lakers; Slovenia), Embiid, Gilgeous-Alexander, Rudy Gobert (Minnesota Timberwolves; France), Al Horford (Golden State Warriors; Dominican Republic), Kyrie Irving (Dallas Mavericks; Australia), Jokić, Lauri Markkanen (Utah Jazz; Finland), Kristaps Porziņģis (Hawks; Latvia), Domantas Sabonis (Sacramento Kings; Lithuania), Alperen Sengun (Houston Rockets; Turkey), Siakam, Nikola Vučević (Chicago Bulls; Montenegro), Wembanyama and Andrew Wiggins (Miami Heat; Canada).
  • At least three international players have made the Kia All-NBA Team each season since 2018-19.
  • In the 2025-26 NBA GM Survey (https://apo-opa.co/3JkORcR), Jokić (No. 1), Dončić (No. 2), Gilgeous-Alexander (No. 3) and Wembanyama (No. 4) were voted the players most likely to win the 2025-26 Kia NBA MVP Award (67%, 10%, 8% and 7% of votes, respectively). 
  • Three international players were voted as the players GMs would most want to sign if they were starting a franchise today: Wembanyama (83% of votes), Gilgeous-Alexander (13% of votes) and Jokić (3% of votes).
  • Opening-night rosters feature a record nine NBA Academy program alumni and more than 50 players who participated in Basketball Without Borders.
  • There are also several American players with parents from other countries, including Jalen Green (Phoenix Suns; ties to the Philippines), Karl-Anthony Towns (New York Knicks; ties to the Dominican Republic) and Jaylin Williams (Thunder; ties to Vietnam).

The 80th NBA regular season tips off tonight with a doubleheader on NBA League Pass as the defending NBA champion Thunder hosts the Rockets (1:30 a.m. CAT) and the Warriors visit the Lakers (4 a.m. CAT).  The 2025-26 season will reach fans in 214 countries and territories in more than 50 languages through the league’s broadcast partners around the world, including ESPN, Amazon Prime Video, ZAP TV and NTV in sub-Saharan Africa, and NBA League Pass, the league’s premium live game subscription service available via the NBA App.

Below is the full list of international players on 2025-26 opening-night NBA rosters (active and inactive):

Country

Name

Team

Ties

Australia

Dyson Daniels

Atlanta Hawks

Australia

Josh Green

Charlotte Hornets

Australia

Josh Giddey

Chicago Bulls

Australia

Lachlan Olbrich*

Chicago Bulls

Australia

Luke Travers*

Cleveland Cavaliers

Australia

Tyrese Proctor

Cleveland Cavaliers

Australia

Danté Exum

Dallas Mavericks

Australia

Kyrie Irving

Dallas Mavericks

Australia

Alex Toohey*

Golden State Warriors

Australia

Johnny Furphy

Indiana Pacers

Ties to Papua New Guinea

Australia

Jock Landale

Memphis Grizzlies

Australia

Joe Ingles

Minnesota Timberwolves

Australia

Rocco Zikarsky*

Minnesota Timberwolves

Austria

Jakob Poeltl

Toronto Raptors

Bahamas

Buddy Hield

Golden State Warriors

Bahamas

Deandre Ayton

Los Angeles Lakers

Ties to Nigeria

Bahamas

VJ Edgecombe

Philadelphia 76ers

Belgium

Ajay Mitchell

Oklahoma City Thunder

Belgium

Toumani Camara

Portland Trail Blazers

Ties to Mali

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Karlo Matković

New Orleans Pelicans

Ties to Croatia

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Jusuf Nurkić

Utah Jazz

Brazil

Gui Santos

Golden State Warriors

Cameroon

Pascal Siakam

Indiana Pacers

Cameroon

Christian Koloko*

Los Angeles Lakers

Cameroon

Yves Missi

New Orleans Pelicans

Cameroon

Joel Embiid

Philadelphia 76ers

Canada

Caleb Houstan*

Atlanta Hawks

Canada

Nickeil Alexander-Walker

Atlanta Hawks

Canada

Emanuel Miller*

Chicago Bulls

Canada

Dwight Powell

Dallas Mavericks

Canada

Ryan Nembhard*

Dallas Mavericks

Canada

Jamal Murray

Denver Nuggets

Canada

Jackson Rowe*

Golden State Warriors

Canada

Andrew Nembhard

Indiana Pacers

Canada

Bennedict Mathurin

Indiana Pacers

Ties to Haiti

Canada

Brandon Clarke

Memphis Grizzlies

Canada

Olivier-Maxence Prosper*

Memphis Grizzlies

Ties to Haiti

Canada

Zach Edey

Memphis Grizzlies

Canada

Andrew Wiggins

Miami Heat

Canada

Leonard Miller

Minnesota Timberwolves

Canada

Luguentz Dort

Oklahoma City Thunder

Canada

Dillon Brooks

Phoenix Suns

Canada

Shaedon Sharpe

Portland Trail Blazers

Canada

Kelly Olynyk

San Antonio Spurs

Canada

RJ Barrett

Toronto Raptors

Canada

AJ Lawson*

Toronto Raptors

Canada

Will Riley

Washington Wizards

Canada

Jahmyl Telfort*

LA Clippers

Ties to Haiti

Canada

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Oklahoma City Thunder

China

Yang Hansen

Portland Trail Blazers

Croatia

Ivica Zubac

LA Clippers

Croatia

Dario Šarić

Sacramento Kings

Czech Republic

Vít Krejčí

Atlanta Hawks

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Jonathan Kuminga

Golden State Warriors

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Bismack Biyombo

San Antonio Spurs

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Oscar Tshiebwe*

Utah Jazz

Dominican Republic

Al Horford

Golden State Warriors

Dominican Republic

David Jones Garcia*

San Antonio Spurs

Finland

Lauri Markkanen

Utah Jazz

France

Zaccharie Risacher

Atlanta Hawks

France

Nolan Traoré

Brooklyn Nets

France

Tidjane Salaün

Charlotte Hornets

France

Moussa Diabaté

Charlotte Hornets

Ties to Guinea and Mali

France

Noa Essengue

Chicago Bulls

Ties to Cameroon

France

Nicolas Batum

LA Clippers

Ties to Cameroon

France

Joan Beringer

Minnesota Timberwolves

Ties to Benin

France

Rudy Gobert

Minnesota Timberwolves

France

Guerschon Yabusele

New York Knicks

Ties to the Democratic Republic of the Congo

France

Mohamed Diawara

New York Knicks

Ties to Mali

France

Pacôme Dadiet

New York Knicks

Ties to Ivory Coast

France

Ousmane Dieng

Oklahoma City Thunder

Ties to Senegal

France

Rayan Rupert

Portland Trail Blazers

Ties to Morocco  

France

Sidy Cissoko*

Portland Trail Blazers

Ties to Senegal

France

Maxime Raynaud

Sacramento Kings

France

Victor Wembanyama

San Antonio Spurs

Ties to the Democratic Republic of the Congo

France

Alex Sarr

Washington Wizards

Ties to Senegal

France

Bilal Coulibaly

Washington Wizards

Ties to Mali

France

Noah Penda

Orlando Magic

Ties to Cameroon and Martinique

Georgia

Goga Bitadze

Orlando Magic

Georgia

Sandro Mamukelashvili

Toronto Raptors

Germany

Maxi Kleber

Los Angeles Lakers

Germany

Ariel Hukporti

New York Knicks

Ties to Togo

Germany

Isaiah Hartenstein

Oklahoma City Thunder

Germany

Tristan da Silva

Orlando Magic

Ties to Brazil

Germany

Dennis Schröder

Sacramento Kings

Ties to The Gambia

Germany

Franz Wagner

Orlando Magic

Germany

Moritz Wagner

Orlando Magic

Greece

Alex Antetokounmpo*

Milwaukee Bucks

Ties to Nigeria

Greece

Giannis Antetokounmpo

Milwaukee Bucks

Ties to Nigeria

Greece

Thanasis Antetokounmpo

Milwaukee Bucks

Ties to Nigeria

Guinea

Moussa Cissé*

Dallas Mavericks

Israel

Ben Saraf

Brooklyn Nets

Israel

Deni Avdija

Portland Trail Blazers

Italy

Simone Fontecchio

Miami Heat

Jamaica

Nick Richards

Phoenix Suns

Japan

Rui Hachimura

Los Angeles Lakers

Ties to Benin

Latvia

Kristaps Porziņģis

Atlanta Hawks

Lithuania

Jonas Valančiūnas

Denver Nuggets

Lithuania

Kasparas Jakučionis

Miami Heat

Lithuania

Domantas Sabonis

Sacramento Kings

Mali

N’Faly Dante

Atlanta Hawks

Montenegro

Nikola Vučević

Chicago Bulls

Netherlands

Quinten Post

Golden State Warriors

New Zealand

Steven Adams

Houston Rockets

Nigeria

Adem Bona

Philadelphia 76ers

Ties to Turkey

Nigeria

Josh Okogie

Houston Rockets

Portugal

Neemias Queta

Boston Celtics

Ties to Guinea-Bissau

Russia

Egor Dёmin

Brooklyn Nets

Russia

Vladislav Goldin*

Miami Heat

Senegal

Eli Ndiaye*

Atlanta Hawks

Senegal

Mouhamed Gueye

Atlanta Hawks

Serbia

Nikola Jokić

Denver Nuggets

Serbia

Bogdan Bogdanović

LA Clippers

Serbia

Nikola Jović

Miami Heat

Serbia

Nikola Topić

Oklahoma City Thunder

Serbia

Tristan Vukčević*

Washington Wizards

Ties to Sweden

Serbia

Nikola Đurišić

Atlanta Hawks

Slovenia

Luka Dončić

Los Angeles Lakers

South Sudan

Khaman Maluach

Phoenix Suns

Ties to Uganda

South Sudan

Duop Reath

Portland Trail Blazers

Ties to Australia

Spain

Hugo González

Boston Celtics

Spain

Santi Aldama

Memphis Grizzlies

St. Lucia

Chris Boucher

Boston Celtics

Ties to Canada

Sweden

Bobi Klintman

Detroit Pistons

Sweden

Pelle Larsson

Miami Heat

Switzerland

Clint Capela

Houston Rockets

Ties to Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Switzerland

Yanic Konan Niederhauser

LA Clippers

Ties to Ivory Coast

Switzerland

Kyshawn George

Washington Wizards

Ties to Canada and France

Turkey

Alperen Sengun

Houston Rockets

Ukraine

Svi Mykhailiuk

Utah Jazz

Ukraine

Max Shulga*

Boston Celtics

United Kingdom

Amari Williams*

Boston Celtics

United Kingdom

OG Anunoby

New York Knicks

Ties to Nigeria

United Kingdom

Tosan Evbuomwan*

New York Knicks

Ties to Nigeria

United Kingdom

Jeremy Sochan

San Antonio Spurs

Ties to Poland

* – Two-Way Player

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Basketball Association (NBA).

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Posted on

CNN Invites APO Group Founder Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard to Attend Inaugural “Global Perspectives: Africa” Summit in London

Source: APO

APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading pan-African communications and news distribution consultancy, is honoured to confirm that its Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), has been invited to participate in the inaugural Global Perspectives: Africa’s Role in a Changing World summit — an invitation-only gathering of global leaders and influencers hosted by CNN International on 3 November 2025 in London, UK.

Launched in July 2025, Global Perspectives is CNN’s new events franchise designed to bring its journalism and editorial insight to live audiences. The first edition, focused on Africa, aims to convene world leaders, innovators and decision-makers to explore how the continent’s economy, demographics, resources and strategic role are reshaping global dynamics.

Confirmed speakers for the summit include Tony Elumelu, Chairperson of United Bank for Africa; Ralph Mupita, Group President and CEO of MTN Group; Nonkululeko Nyembezi, Chairman of Standard Bank Group; Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman & CEO of DP World; and Mark Suzman, CEO and Board Member of the Gates Foundation, alongside other leaders spanning government, finance, business, and technology sectors.

Opening remarks will be delivered by Sir Mark Thompson, CNN’s Chairman & CEO, and the panels will be moderated by leading CNN journalists including Christiane Amanpour, Richard Quest, Zain Asher, Jim Sciutto, Eleni Giokos, and Larry Madowo.

Attendance is by invitation only. Global Perspectives will act as a platform for news-making interviews, high-level discussions, and off-the-record exchanges, while also enabling relationships and strategic partnerships among attendees.

Named among the Top 100 Most Influential Africans of 2023 and 2024, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard serves in multiple senior advisory capacities across key sectors. He is a Senior Advisory Board Member at the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business; Strategic Advisor to the Chief Executive Officer of the Royal African Society (United Kingdom) and to the European Union – Africa Chamber of Commerce (EUACC); and Special Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa. He is also an Advisory Board Member at the Africa Energy Chamber (AEC), the Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG), the World Football Summit (WFS), and the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) Africa. Additionally, he serves as a Member of the Africa Tech Festival / AfricaCom Leadership Council, a Member of the Pan-Africa Ubuntu Circle of The ONE Campaign, and an International Committee Member at the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).

More information about Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard: https://apo-opa.co/3JbIh8A

“I am delighted to have been invited by CNN to participate in Global Perspectives: Africa’s Role in a Changing World,” said Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman of APO Group. “It is a privilege to contribute to such an essential discussion about Africa’s growing global influence and to exchange ideas with some of the most respected voices shaping the future.”

Nicolas’s participation in Global Perspectives underscores his continued commitment to elevating Africa’s voice in the global discourse and fostering inclusive, sustainable growth across the continent.

For more on the Global Perspectives event series, visit https://apo-opa.co/4o5RHBE.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

APO Group Media Contact:
marie@apo-opa.com

About APO Group: 
Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) is the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact both on the continent and globally.  

Our commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including a PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award and multiple PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards. In 2023, we were named the Leading Public Relations Firm Africa and the Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa in the World Business Outlook Awards, and the Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy Agency of the Year South Africa in 2024 and again in 2025 in the same awards. In 2025, Brands Review Magazine acknowledged us as the Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa for the second consecutive year. They also named us the Best PR Agency and the Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa in 2024. Additionally, in 2025, we were honoured with the Gold distinction for Best PR Campaign and Bronze in the Special Event category at the Davos Communications Awards.

APO Group’s esteemed clientele, which includes global giants such as Emirates, Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, the UNDP, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa’s Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape. With a multicultural team across Africa, we offer unmatched, truly pan-African insights, expertise, and reach across the continent. APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences. 

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