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President Mahama to headline The Africa Debate 2026 as Ghana-United Kingdom (UK) investment ties deepen

Source: APO

Invest Africa (www.InvestAfrica.com), the leading platform for pan-African trade and investment, is pleased to announce that H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, will serve as Guest of Honour and deliver the keynote address at The Africa Debate 2026, taking place on Wednesday, 3 June at the historic Guildhall in the City of London.

The announcement coincides with the launch of a strategic partnership between Invest Africa and the Ghana High Commission London, including the Ghana Investment Summit.

Now in its 12th year, The Africa Debate is the UK’s foremost platform for high-level dialogue on Africa’s economic future. The 2026 theme, “Redefining Partnership: Navigating a World in Transition” explores what shifts in the global order and new economic and geopolitical realities mean for African economies and their international partners. Against a backdrop of uncertainty in the global economy, The Africa Debate will spotlight opportunities to accelerate investment, unlock growth, and strengthen development outcomes through a new era of collaboration.

H.E President Mahama’s keynote will follow opening remarks by the UK Government and will set the tone for a day of substantive discussion focused on regional leadership and strengthening partnerships in key sectoral areas. As a recognised leader in sustainability and innovation, Ghana’s voice will be central to this year’s agenda.

Chantelé Carrington, CEO of Invest Africa, commented: “We are honoured to welcome H.E President Mahama to The Africa Debate 2026 at a moment of real momentum in Ghana’s investment story. His leadership on green growth, regional integration, financial services and digital economy has positioned Ghana as one of the continent’s most forward-looking and investable economies. We are also proud to partner with the Ghana High Commission in London, under the leadership of H.E. Sabah Zita Benson, the High Commission is an important representative of Ghana’s economic opportunities here in the United Kingdom.”

H.E. Sabah Zita Benson, High Commissioner, Ghana High Commission London, added: “I am proud to represent a Ghana that is confident, forward-looking, and ready to lead in shaping the future of Africa–UK relations. It is a distinct honour to host H.E. John Dramani Mahama at The Africa Debate 2026, as we move beyond dialogue to decisive action, mobilising investment, strengthening partnerships, and delivering real impact. Ghana stands ready to work with committed partners to unlock opportunities, drive innovation, and secure a more resilient and prosperous future for our people.”

The Africa Debate 2026 will feature presidential and ministerial keynotes, high-level plenaries, and curated side events convening 800+ senior stakeholders from government, finance, and industry. Sessions will examine how Africa can redefine partnerships — through finance, digitalisation, agribusiness and energy security — to drive resilient and sustainable growth.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Invest Africa.

Media Contact:
Invest Africa
Email fiona.hannig@investafrica.com

About The Africa Debate:
The Africa Debate is London’s premier investment forum dedicated to shaping the future of African trade, investment, and economic transformation. Now in its 12th year, the event serves as a critical platform for global businesses, investors, policymakers, and thought leaders to engage in high-level discussions on Africa’s evolving role in the global economy. Website: https://TheAfricaDebate.com

About Invest Africa:
Invest Africa is a leading pan-African business and investment platform, that drives trade and investment across the continent. With over seventy years’ experience in Africa, we provide our network with trusted market insights, tailored business support, and platforms for meaningful engagement. Our network includes more than 400 multinational corporations, investors, policy makers, and entrepreneurs, united by a shared commitment to building sustainable opportunity across Africa. Website: www.InvestAfrica.com

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Angolan Production Gets New Uplift as Eni’s Guido Brusco Joins Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2026

Source: APO

Guido Brusco, COO, Natural Resources of energy major Eni, will return to the Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference and exhibition – taking place September 9–10 with a pre-conference day on September 8 – as a speaker. With several project milestones reached in 2026, Eni – through its joint venture company Azule Energy – is reshaping Angola’s next production cycle. As the company works towards reaching 250,000 barrels per day (bpd), Brusco’s participation at AOG 2026 signals Eni’s continued confidence in Angola’s project pipeline, reinforcing the country’s position as one of Africa’s biggest hydrocarbon markets.

Angola entered 2026 with several projects gaining momentum – most of which Azule Energy has been at the forefront of. In the oil sector, the company continues to advance development at Block 15/06, where its Agogo Integrated West Hub recently announced the start of the Ndungu full-field development in February 2026. Featuring seven production wells and four injection wells, the Ndungu field will produce 60,000 bpd at peak capacity, boosting West Hub production to 175,000 bpd. The next project phase will see the migration of the Ndungu field from the Ngoma FPSO to the Agogo FPSO, following which Ngoma will be disconnected and decommissioned.

Beyond the West Hub, Azule Energy is advancing the development of the East Hub at Block 15/06. The company recently announced the discovery of the Algaita-01 well – situated near the Olombendo FPSO which currently produces hydrocarbon from nine subsea wells on the eastern side of the block. The well is estimated to hold up to 500 million barrels of oil, building on 22 discoveries to strengthen the production outlook of Block 15/06. Together, the West Hub and East Hub developments form a central part of Angola’s strategy to sustain production through phased offshore developments, infill drilling and new discoveries tied back to existing infrastructure.

In parallel, Azule Energy is at the helm of Angola’s natural gas resurgence. The company – through the New Gas Consortium (NGC) – achieved first gas delivery from the Quiluma field in March 2026, marking a critical milestone for Angola’s first non-associated gas project. Initial output is estimated at 150 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscf/d), with the NGC eyeing 330 mmscf/d by the end of 2026. The field will provide gas to the onshore Soyo liquefaction plant and then distributed to the Angola LNG plant. The milestone follows the Gajajeira-01 discovery – Angola’s first dedicated gas find – made in 2025 by Azule Energy, reinforcing the long-term gas potential of Angola’s offshore sector and supporting the country’s strategy to monetize gas resources.

Against this backdrop, Brusco’s participation at AOG 2026 reflects both Eni’s long-term commitment to Angola and Azule Energy’s growing role in advancing the country’s upstream and gas development strategy. As the country continues to bring new projects online, expand gas production and advance offshore developments, AOG 2026 will provide a platform for operators, investors and policymakers to align on the next phase of investment and production growth.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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SAWS releases seasonal climate forecast

Source: Government of South Africa

SAWS releases seasonal climate forecast

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) forecast indicates that warmer conditions are expected in most parts of the country in the late autumn and winter, while significant rainfall is expected mainly over the southern and eastern coastal parts of South Africa.

In its seasonal climate watch released on Tuesday, the weather service said the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is currently still in a neutral state.

Current predictions indicate a rapid shift over the next few months toward an El Niño state [associated with hotter and drier conditions], with further strengthening expected through spring and into the start of the next summer season.

“Caution is advised, however, as the prediction skill of the ENSO phenomena can be limited during the winter months, and therefore it is highly recommended to keep track of the forecasts during and after winter,” SAWS said.

Above-normal rainfall is expected over the south-eastern and eastern coastal areas during late autumn, with the eastern coastal areas remaining likely to receive above-normal rainfall during the winter season.

“This is likely to bring positive impacts for crop and livestock production. However, the south-western part of the country, which normally receives significant rainfall during the winter season, is expected to receive below-normal rainfall during this period. 

“Therefore, the relevant decision-makers are encouraged to advise farmers in these regions to practice soil and water conservation, proper water harvesting and storage, and other appropriate farming practices,” SAWS said.

The weather service warned that the wetter-than-normal conditions may increase the risk of localised flooding, temporary waterlogging, and poor drainage in vulnerable coastal and low-lying areas, particularly in settlements located near rivers, estuaries, and flood-prone zones. 

Such conditions may elevate the potential for waterborne disease outbreaks, contamination of water sources, and water-related injuries or accidents. 

In contrast, the south-western and southern coastal regions are expected to receive below-normal rainfall during winter, which may place pressure on local water availability and hygiene conditions in some communities if dry conditions persist.

Minimum and maximum temperatures are also expected to be above normal across most parts of the country during autumn and early winter. 

These warmer-than-usual conditions may increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially among vulnerable groups such as older persons, young children, people with chronic illnesses, and those working outdoors. 

Elevated temperatures may also heighten exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, increasing the likelihood of sunburn, skin damage, and other UV- related health impacts. 

“Communities are therefore encouraged to remain alert to both heat- and rainfall-related health risks by staying hydrated, limiting unnecessary exposure to heat, using sun protection, avoiding flooded areas, and ensuring safe water and sanitation practices. 

“Health authorities and disaster management structures are advised to strengthen public health messaging and ensure the timely dissemination of heat-health information, flood alerts, and hygiene awareness measures to support preparedness and response,” SAWS said. 

The forecast is updated monthly, and users are advised to monitor the updated forecasts, as there is a possibility for them to change, especially the longer lead-time forecasts.  

“Moreover, farmers are advised to keep monitoring the weekly and monthly forecasts issued by the SAWS. Farmers are also advised to keep monitoring advisories from the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, and make the necessary adjustments accordingly,” the weather service said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

 

 

nosihle

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President Ramaphosa urges new envoys to strengthen diplomatic, economic ties

Source: Government of South Africa

President Ramaphosa urges new envoys to strengthen diplomatic, economic ties

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners to deepen diplomatic, economic and people-to-people relations between South Africa and their respective countries.

The President received letters of credence from the newly appointed Heads of Mission from 20 countries across the world during a credentials ceremony at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Pretoria, on Wednesday. 

The ceremony saw the Heads of Mission-designate present their credentials to the President and pledged their commitment to work with South Africa to further advance and strengthen diplomatic relations. 

Letters of Credence are official diplomatic documents presented to the President by Heads of Mission-designate who have been nominated by their respective governments to serve as ambassadors to South Africa.

Addressing Heads of Mission, the President said South Africa stands ready to partner with nations for trade, development and peace.

“In South Africa you will find a ready, willing, able and capable partner for trade, development, progress and peace,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said the envoys begin their tenure at a time when South Africa’s economy is recovering, supported by ongoing structural reforms.

“The structural reform agenda we embarked on in 2018 to overcome longstanding constraints to investment and growth continues to gain momentum,” he said.

He noted improvements in key economic indicators, including stabilised public debt and increased job creation, as well as progress made through investment drives.

“Last week, we held our sixth South Africa Investment Conference, where we secured R889 billion in cumulative investment commitments. This has encouraged us to set a goal of securing R3 trillion in new investment commitments over the next three years,” he said. 

The President said government is also investing heavily in infrastructure to support growth.

“We will be investing approximately R1 trillion over the next three years to build roads, dams, schools, hospitals and other public infrastructure,” he said.

President Ramaphosa emphasised the importance of strengthening cooperation among nations, particularly in addressing global challenges.

“As we pursue our apex priority of inclusive growth and job creation, we are firmly committed to deepen our cooperation and collaboration with all countries. We hope that your time in South Africa will contribute to building meaningful, sustainable economic partnerships,” he said. 

Expectations for Diplomats

He also outlined expectations for the diplomats, stressing the importance of mutual respect, non-interference and constructive engagement.

“As President, whenever I appoint Ambassadors and High Commissioners to your country, I expect them to promote good relations between our two nations. I expect them to respect your country’s sovereignty and promote trade and investment opportunities in our respective countries. 

“I also expect them to promote South Africa’s culture and value system and strengthen people-to-people relations,” he said.

The President underscored the importance of diplomacy conducted with tact and discretion.

“I always make it a point to inform them that they should never criticise their host countries publicly and in a confrontational manner but should always seek to raise issues privately and constructively.

“They should always seek to build relationships with various stakeholders in the host country. They should always choose to preserve dignity and partnership between our respective countries,” the President said. 

He said this approach aligns with principles of international diplomacy and fosters stronger bilateral relations.

“It is this approach that I believe builds strong relationships between nations and helps to advance the interests of our respective countries based on mutual respect.
 
“South Africa’s interest is to advance a better, more peaceful, more equal world, anchored in human rights and with respect for the dignity of all,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za 

DikelediM

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Gauteng Investment Conference kicks off on Thursday

Source: Government of South Africa

Gauteng Investment Conference kicks off on Thursday

Johannesburg will take centre stage on Thursday as the Gauteng Provincial Government hosts the second annual Gauteng Investment Conference (GIC).

The GIC – which comes hot off the heels of the successful sixth South Africa Investment Conference – will be held at Melrose Arch, with Deputy President Paul Mashatile expected to deliver the keynote address.

Delivering the provincial budget speech last month, then Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile outlined that the provincial government is targeting some R200 billion in investment pledges.

“For the upcoming GIC, our objective is to secure new investment commitments. We remain determined to secure R800 billion in investments by the end of the seventh administration.

“This target is not aspirational. It is pipeline-backed and supported by structured engagement with domestic investors, foreign direct investors and sector leaders. It builds on the momentum of 2025, but it moves us from mobilisation to institutionalisation. We are institutionalising marketing, origination, facilitation and delivery

“But conferences are not judged by attendance numbers or headlines. They are judged by implementation. It is therefore important that we account not only for what was pledged, but for what has been delivered,” Maile said at the time.

From promise to progress

Last year, the GIC garnered some R312.5 billion in pledges in sectors including agro-processing, transport, infrastructure, property development and aviation.

These pledges are expected to provide some 114 000 job opportunities.

During the launch of the 2026 GIC on 17 February, Maile stated that as of February this year, at least 28% of the pledges have resulted in active projects.

“[Some] 17 out of 60 projects are now in a roll-out and this translates to R73 billion that has been unlocked for the real economy.

“This conversion rate is central to our credibility, as it demonstrates that Gauteng does not treat investment mobilisation as an event driven exercise. But rather, as a continuous life cycle from origination and structuring to facilitation and delivery,” he said at the launch. 

Maile highlighted that the GIC serves as a platform that “integrates project preparation, investor engagement, intergovernmental coordination and capital mobilisation across our strategic pillars”.

“It achieves this by bringing visibility, structure and accountability to the provincial investment pipeline. In so doing, the GIC accelerates delivery and converts intent into implementation, as it translates strategy into bankable projects, aligns provincial ambitions with investor expectations and ensures that economic policy matches execution.

“This approach strongly reinforces the objectives and ambitions of the Gauteng Economic Development Plan, which emphasises inclusive growth, industrial expansion, infrastructure acceleration, job creation and long-term competitiveness,” he said.

Driving Gauteng forward

Maile noted that as GIC 2026 comes around, the provincial government is “now elevating the model”.

“Our goal is to fortify Gauteng’s standing as the top sub-national investment destination in Africa — a status characterised by its credibility, project preparedness and execution discipline.

“We aim to secure R200 billion in new investment commitments. We seek to showcase high-growth sectors that align with global and continental trends, including advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, electric vehicle value chains, digital infrastructure logistics, agro-processing, green hydrogen and financial services,” he said.

Some key catalytic projects to be showcased at GIC 2026 include:

  • Gauteng Rapid Rail Integrated Network extensions.
  • The Lanseria Smart City.
  • The aerotropolis around OR Tambo International Airport.
  • The expansion of the West Rand SEZ [Special Economic Zone].
  • The proposed Vaal SEZ focused on steel revitalisation and green hydrogen

This year’s conference is also aimed at strengthening the “entire investment lifecycle, building on the momentum of 2025”.

“We are institutionalising marketing, origination, facilitation and delivery. We are aligning with the African Continental Free Trade Area and African Union Agenda 2063 to deepen Pan-African value chains.

“We are building on engagements in Davos, Italy and the Mining Indaba to convert diplomatic relations into structured pipelines. We are also placing municipalities at the centre of this model. Urban planning, infrastructure approvals 

“In 2025, we demonstrated that Gauteng can mobilise capital and in 2026, we are showing that Gauteng can convert capital into projects, jobs and leading to growth of the economy,” Maile said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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Liquid C2 launches Africa’s first Google Cloud-powered Experience Centre to accelerate Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption

Source: APO

Liquid C2, a business of Cassava Technologies, a global technology leader, has launched Africa’s first Partner Experience Centre powered by Google Cloud in Johannesburg, South Africa. The state-of-the-art facility is designed to empower partners and resellers to move beyond traditional distribution, providing the immersive, hands-on environment needed to architect and deploy cloud and AI solutions tailored specifically to African market needs.

Through the Centre, partners will be onboarded to a structured journey that guides them in securing official Google Cloud accreditation and certification. Beyond technical training provided by both Liquid C2 and Google, the centre will also serve as a collaborative hub, allowing them to work alongside specialist engineers to architect bespoke solutions. Once finalised, these solutions will be brought to market through Liquid’s robust distribution network. This expansion not only opens new commercial avenues for partners but also acts as a catalyst for high-value job creation and the rapid maturation of Africa’s technology ecosystem.

The Partner Experience Centre provides the partner and reseller ecosystem in Africa with direct access to enterprise-grade technologies such as Gemini Enterprise, and the “Gemini Playspace” for rapid AI experimentation. It also provides specialist expertise to prototype, test, and scale digital solutions in real-world environments. The centre is a testament to Liquid C2’s commitment to strengthening its role within the partner ecosystem in Africa, as it supports partners in overcoming infrastructure constraints, skills gaps, and complexity barriers that often slow digital transformation efforts across the continent.

As demand for advanced digital capabilities grows, the Partner Experience Centre serves as an innovation hub where enterprises, startups, academic institutions, developers, and public-sector stakeholders can co-create locally-relevant solutions, fostering a sense of shared progress and community across Africa.

The facility also provides industry-specific platforms tailored to sectors including financial services, healthcare, and retail. These platforms demonstrate how AI-enabled solutions can reduce operational risk, improve efficiency, enhance customer engagement, and unlock new growth opportunities across African markets.

“At Cassava Technologies, we believe the future of Africa’s digital transformation will be shaped through strong ecosystems that combine global innovation with local infrastructure and expertise,” said Ziaad Suleman, Senior Vice President, Cassava Technologies and CEO, South Africa & Botswana. “The Partner Experience Centre powered by Google Cloud creates a practical environment where organisations can explore, test, and scale solutions that deliver real business value. By combining our infrastructure, expertise, and continental reach with Google Cloud’s advanced technologies, we are helping to democratise access to AI and cloud capabilities for enterprises across Africa.”

“This is a pivotal moment in our commitment to Africa’s digital future,” said Tara Brady, President, Google Cloud EMEA. “The Partner Experience Centre is a testament to our belief in the power of a strong partner ecosystem. By combining our advanced AI capabilities, including our Gemini models, with Liquid C2’s localised expertise, we are not just building a facility; we are building a hub for innovation that will empower businesses, create jobs, and deliver the benefits of digital transformation to every corner of the continent.”

The collaboration will focus on three core pillars of transformation:

  • Accelerated Partner Enablement: The centre acts as a dedicated Proof-of-Concept (PoC) hub designed to dismantle historical market barriers. It provides localised training, hands-on technology interaction, and business support, leveraging Liquid’s capabilities to offer local currency billing and credit to manage financial complexity for resellers.
  • AI and Technology Innovation: A primary focus is empowering partners to build and deploy advanced AI solutions. The facility features a dedicated “Gemini Playspace & AI Solutions” to certify technical staff, alongside integrated “Solutions Pods” where partners can demonstrate complete technology stacks to win complex enterprise bids.
  • Economic Growth and Job Creation: The partnership is a direct investment in Africa’s tech workforce. By strategically broadening the partner network, the initiative will foster deep, localised expertise and act as a catalyst for new economic opportunities, creating a significant ripple effect of job creation for certified engineers and other tech professionals across the continent.

As a business of Cassava Technologies, Liquid C2 has always been at the forefront of bringing cutting-edge digital technologies to African businesses, both directly and through its partner ecosystem. This first-of-its-kind Partner Experience Centre is yet another milestone that reflects the company’s commitment to partnerships that leverage its continental footprint to serve a broader base of organisations.

Aligned with this, Cassava continues to expand digital inclusion across Africa through its integrated portfolio of connectivity, cloud, cyber security, and digital solutions, ensuring that a broad spectrum of organisations, regardless of size or sector, can access and benefit from advanced technologies, thereby enabling more inclusive participation in Africa’s digital economy.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

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

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eThekwini mayor pays tribute to Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s Albert Mazibuko

Source: Government of South Africa

eThekwini mayor pays tribute to Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s Albert Mazibuko

EThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba has extended heartfelt condolences to the family of Albert Mazibuko, a long-serving and award-winning member of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, who passed away over the weekend after a short illness.

The internationally acclaimed choral group confirmed Mazibuko’s passing in a statement on its Facebook page.

Xaba described Mazibuko (77) as a towering figure in South African music, whose artistry and dedication helped elevate the multi-Grammy Award-winning isicathamiya group to global prominence.

“Albert Mazibuko was more than a performer; he was a mentor and role model to generations of artists. His passing is not only a profound loss to his family and Ladysmith Black Mambazo, but to the nation as a whole,” Xaba said in a statement on Tuesday.

Mazibuko’s career spanned more than five decades, during which he helped secure five Grammy Awards and 19 nominations for the group, further cementing the global reach of isicathamiya and mbube music.

In paying tribute, Xaba also called on social partners to strengthen support for the creative industry to ensure that the legacy of cultural icons like Mazibuko continues to inspire and empower future talent.

He also encouraged young artists to draw inspiration from Mazibuko’s discipline, humility and enduring contribution to the arts.

“Mazibuko’s family and colleagues can take comfort in knowing that his remarkable career has left an indelible mark on South Africa’s cultural heritage,” Xaba said.

A memorial service will take place on 15 April in Durban. The funeral service will be held on 18 April in Entabamhlophe, Estcourt. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK

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Uganda: Opposition calls for reforms amid rising debt burden

Source: APO

In its alternative budget for the 2026/27 financial year, the Opposition has warned that Uganda’s rising debt burden, shifting fiscal targets and controversial tax proposals risk undermining livelihoods, weakening institutions and choking service delivery.

Presenting the proposals at Parliament on Tuesday, 07 April 2026, the Leader of the Opposition, Hon.  Joel Ssenyonyi said the country’s current fiscal path is unsustainable, with the bulk of government spending already locked into debt obligations and fixed costs.

He said that under the proposed national budget of over Shs78 trillion, more than half of the resources are pre-committed, leaving limited fiscal space for critical sectors such as health, education and infrastructure. “For every Shs1,000 collected in taxes, more than Shs300 goes directly to lenders,” Ssenyonyi said warning that, ‘Uganda is increasingly borrowing not for development, but for survival’.

The Opposition estimates that only about Shs34.2 trillion which is close to  44 per cent of the budget is available for discretionary spending, a squeeze it says is already being felt through underfunded public services, stalled projects and widening inequality.

The Opposition singles out a number of projects including Atiak Sugar Factory, Dei BioPharma, Lubowa International Specialised Hospital and the Inspire Africa coffee initiative describing them as examples of investments that have absorbed significant public funds without delivering commensurate value.

Ssenyonyi said such projects reflect deeper weaknesses in public finance management and prioritisation, arguing that government must shift focus from prestige investments to service delivery.

The Executive Director of the Civil Society Budget Advocacy Group (CSBAG), Julius Mukunda said persistent changes in budget estimates point to deeper planning challenges. “These numbers are a moving target. Today it is Shs84 trillion, tomorrow Shs43 trillion. Parliament must work with concrete and consistent figures,” Mukunda said.

He noted that debt servicing alone is consuming nearly 39 per cent of the budget, leaving little room for development expenditure. “We believe your priority is where your money is and most of the money is going into debt,” he added.

Mukunda also highlighted a financing gap in key government programmes, particularly under the National Development Plan, where sectors such as agro-industrialisation face a shortfall of about Shs8.1 trillion.

Mukunda argued that Uganda can raise more domestic revenue without increasing tax rates by improving efficiency, including leveraging local governments to support tax collection.

Mukunda criticised the increase in tax on imported second-hand clothes (mivumba) from 15 per cent to 30 per cent arguing that it risks hurting low-income earners without a viable local textile industry to fill the gap.

Equally contentious is the proposed taxation of smartphones, which Mukunda described as a direct barrier to youth entrepreneurship and digital participation. “The phone is the shop, the office, the address for many young people. Making it expensive is telling them to stay poor,” he said.

In their budget statement, the Opposition further criticised government for slashing domestic arrears payments from Shs1.4 trillion to Shs200 billion, calling it a breach of earlier commitments.

At the same time, both the Opposition and civil society pointed to inefficiencies such as idle loans where government continues to pay commitment fees on undisbursed funds due to delayed project execution.

The result, they argued, is a cycle of stalled infrastructure projects, with at least 27 major developments reportedly suspended due to funding constraints.

The Opposition proposed a scaled-down and more realistic budget of about Shs71.4 trillion, aligned with actual revenue performance. Key recommendations include reducing domestic borrowing, prioritising arrears clearance and cutting administrative expenditure on travel, workshops and government vehicle fleets to create what is described as a “service delivery buffer”.

The alternative framework also calls for capping interest payments, strengthening revenue collection efficiency instead of raising taxes and prioritising concessional borrowing over commercial debt.

The Opposition also raised concerns over underfunding in critical social sectors. “Health continues to receive only about 6 per cent of the budget far below the 15 per cent Abuja target resulting in drug shortages, understaffing and poor service delivery,” the budget statement reads in part.

Ssenyonyi added  that agriculture, which employs the majority of Ugandans, remains underfunded with limited investment in irrigation, extension services and market access.

The Opposition framed its alternative budget as a choice between maintaining the current trajectory and adopting reforms aimed at protecting citizens’ welfare. “We must choose discipline over excess, transparency over opacity, and long-term national interest over short-term convenience,” Ssenyonyi added.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

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New Final Investment Decisions (FID) Propel Africa’s Mining Sector as Investors Eye $8.5T Untapped Potential

Source: APO


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Australian mining company Resolute Mining has approved a $516 million Final Investment Decision (FID) for its Doropo Gold Project in the Ivory Coast. The FID advances the project into the construction phase, with first production of 500,000 ounces per annum expected by 2028, strengthening the country and Africa’s position as major gold producers. Similarly, Toubani Resources approved a $216 million FID for the Kobada Gold Project in Mali, enabling the project to enter construction. Designed to produce approximately 162,000 ounces of gold per annum, Kobada supports Mali’s strategy to expand gold output beyond the current 60 tons per annum.

Such approvals signal growing capital inflows into Africa’s mining sector, as developers advance projects toward production to meet rising global mineral demand while the continent seeks investment partners to unlock its estimated $8.5 trillion in untapped mineral resources.

Rising FIDs Drive New Phase of Growth for African Mining

As more mining projects reach FID stage, Africa’s mining industry is entering a new phase of expansion, with the capital strengthening the continent’s role in global supply chains while driving infrastructure development, job creation and long-term economic growth.

With global demand for critical minerals expected to triple by 2030, FID announcements across Africa are set to accelerate, underpinned by the continent’s 30% share of energy transition metal reserves. The expanding pipeline of FIDs underscores the strong momentum building across the sector.

Rio Tinto approved a $473 million investment decision to extend the life of the Zulti South Project to 2050, strengthening South Africa’s position as a long-term supplier of mineral sands including zircon and ilmenite, which are essential inputs for construction, ceramics and advanced manufacturing industries. Meanwhile, Tharisa approved a $547 million FID for an underground expansion at its Bushveld Complex operations. The project is expected to deliver over 200,000 ounces of platinum group metals (PGMs) annually alongside more than two million tons of chrome concentrate, reinforcing the country’s position as the world’s leading supplier of PGMs.

Beyond these projects, a broader pipeline of developments is advancing toward investment decisions across the continent. Major projects including the Manono Lithium Project in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Gorumbwa Platinum Project in Zimbabwe, the Diamba Sud Gold Project in Senegal and the Kabanga Nickel Project in Tanzania are progressing toward potential FIDs as investors position themselves to capture rising demand for battery minerals and critical metals.

Investment Momentum Ahead of African Mining Week

This growing pipeline of investment decisions and project developments will be a key focus of the upcoming African Mining Week 2026, taking place October 14–16 in Cape Town. The event will connect investors, project developers and government regulators to explore partnership opportunities and investment prospects across Africa’s mining value chain. Through high-level discussions and project showcases, the conference will examine how rising FIDs are driving production growth, strengthening infrastructure development and advancing Africa’s strategy to transform its mineral wealth into long-term economic value.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Deputy President Mashatile to deliver a keynote address at the Gauteng Investment Conference

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will tomorrow, Thursday 09 April 2026, deliver a keynote address at the Gauteng Investment Conference 2026 (GIC 2026), a flagship provincial platform aimed at mobilisng investment, advancing industrialisation and accelerating inclusive economic growth. 

This year’s conference builds on the success of the inaugural conference held in 2025, which secured R312 billion in investment pledges. It forms part of Gauteng’s strategy to attract R800 billion in new investments over a three year period.

GIC 2026 will bring together global investors, African governments, municipal leaders, development finance institutions, banks and the private sector with the aim of enhancing Gauteng’s position as Africa’s leading investment hub.

Members of the media are invited to attend and cover the conference as follows:
Date: Thursday, 09 April 
Time: 08h30
Venue: The Marriott Hotel, Melrose Arch 

Members of the media who wish to attend are requested to RSVP to Lerato Sewpersad: leratos@ggda.co.za / 072 909 4463 or Siphiwe Hlope: siphiwe.hlope@gauteng.gov.za.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840 or Sabelo Ndlangisa, Senior Communications Manager at GDED on 066 4860 444

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria