KaliSpot lance ses premiers guichets intelligents 1Net au Sénégal et annonce son premier distributeur pour le bassin du Congo

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

KaliSpot (www.KaliSpot.com) annonce le déploiement de ses premiers guichets intelligents 1Net dans la capitale sénégalaise, marquant un tournant décisif dans sa mission de rapprocher la finance et les services essentiels des citoyens, partout et pour tous. 

Pensés comme des points d’accès de proximité, accessibles 24/7, les guichets KaliSpot 1Net fédèrent, sur un réseau, les services de dépôt et retraits d’argent pour les clients des Banques, Fintechs et du Mobile Money au sein d’une infrastructure mutualisée et hybride. Les guichets KaliSpot 1Net simplifient la vie des utilisateurs en leur offrant une expérience fluide, accessible et totalement interopérable, à l’image des initiatives régionales en cours dans la zone UEMOA. 

« Notre ambition est de rendre la finance accessible à tous, partout et à tout moment, sans barrières technologiques ni exclusions. », déclare l’équipe fondatrice de KaliSpot. 

Grâce à une technologie propriétaire qui combine infrastructure mutualisée, IA conversationnelle en langues locales et biométrie, les guichets KaliSpot 1Net garantissent simplicité d’usage et inclusivité maximale. La solution répond à la fragmentation et aux contraintes liées aux services de dépôts/retraits dans les zones urbaines à certaines heures et dans les zones rurales ; ouvrant ainsi un accès inédit aux services dans ce que le Fondateur de la startup, Mika DIOL, appelle les « Déserts Financiers »

Le lancement à Dakar des premières unités ouvre la voie à un déploiement massif prévu courant 2025 dans les autres régions du Sénégal, avant extension à d’autres pays de la sous-région. Dans cette dynamique d’expansion, KaliSpot a conclu un premier partenariat de distribution avec la société Solarix, qui couvrira la République Démocratique du Congo et la République du Congo, consolidant ainsi sa présence dans le bassin du Congo.

« Ce partenariat stratégique avec KaliSpot s’inscrit dans notre volonté de bâtir des solutions d’infrastructure durables et interopérables en RDC et au Congo. Ensemble, nous allons déployer une technologie qui redéfinit l’accès aux services financiers, tout en renforçant l’intégration entre les marchés du bassin du Congo et le reste de l’Afrique. Nous croyons que cette alliance ouvre la voie à une nouvelle étape de croissance et de transformation pour nos écosystèmes financiers et technologiques », déclare Jacinthe Masamba, Directrice Générale de Solarix.

L’ambition de KaliSpot : bâtir, d’ici trois ans, en s’appuyant sur des partenaires triés sur le volet, la première plateforme hybride (physique et intelligente) de proximité en Afrique de l’Ouest et du Centre ; une révolution dans la relation entre consommateurs et services financiers. 

Distribué par APO Group pour KaliSpot.

Contact presse :
Email : infos@kalispot.com

À propos de KaliSpot 1Net :
KaliSpot est une Fintech Sénégalaise née aux États-Unis, avec l’ambition de repenser l’infrastructure de distribution des services financiers en Afrique de l’ouest et du Centre. Sa solution 1Net fédère sur un réseau hybride les services de Banques, Mobile Money et Fintechs à travers un réseau de guichets intelligents nativement interopérables. KaliSpot vise à rapprocher les services financiers essentiels de centaines de millions de citoyens, directement au cœur des zones urbaines et rurales. 

Pour en savoir plus : www.KaliSpot.com 

À propos de Solarix :
Solarix est une société basée en République Démocratique du Congo, active dans les domaines des technologies, de l’énergie et du digital. L’entreprise et ses partenaires proposent des solutions innovantes allant des infrastructures TIC (VSAT, fibre optique, réseaux) et d’énergie, jusqu’à l’exploitation de contenus médias. Engagée dans la transformation numérique et énergétique du continent, Solarix met son expertise au service des entreprises, des communautés et des institutions pour accélérer l’accès aux services essentiels. 

Pour en savoir plus : www.Solarix-Group.com  

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CORRECTION – AFREXIMBANK : Foire commerciale intra-africain (IATF) 2025 – AFRICA24 un dispositif exceptionnel

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Du 4 au 10 septembre 2025 à Alger (Algérie), la quatrième édition de l’Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) se tient dans la capitale algérienne, sous le thème « Bâtir des passerelles pour une ZLECAf réussie ». Organisée par Afreximbank en collaboration avec la Commission de l’Union africaine et le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf, cette foire constitue une plateforme stratégique majeure pour dynamiser le commerce intra-africain, encourager les investissements et renforcer l’intégration continentale.

Cette édition rassemblera plus de 1 600 exposants, 35 000 participants et délégations de 75 pays, avec un volume d’affaires attendu dépassant les 44 milliards USD. Elle mettra en lumière des secteurs clés tels que l’innovation, l’industrialisation à valeur ajoutée, les technologies, les industries créatives, l’automobile, la jeunesse et les femmes en affaires.

L’IATF, un moteur pour la transformation

Les enjeux de l’IATF 2025 sont de premier plan. L’événement vise à soutenir l’essor d’un marché africain véritablement unifié, porté par la force de 1,4 milliard de consommateurs et un PIB cumulé de plus de 3,4 trillions de dollars. Il s’agit également de promouvoir une intégration économique renforcée sous l’égide de la ZLECAf, en favorisant la conclusion d’accords commerciaux concrets et la tenue de forums sectoriels stratégiques.

Au-delà des échanges commerciaux, l’IATF 2025 entend valoriser les innovations africaines dans des domaines clés tels que la technologie, l’agriculture, l’industrie durable et la créativité. Une attention particulière sera accordée à l’inclusion des jeunes, des femmes et des entrepreneurs, dont le dynamisme constitue l’un des moteurs essentiels de la transformation économique du continent.

Une couverture éditoriale à 360° par Africa24

Le Groupe Africa24, premier groupe média panafricain TV et digital, déploie un dispositif audiovisuel et digital complet pour faire vivre l’IATF 2025 :

  • Diffusions en direct des sessions d’ouverture, panels sectoriels, forums ministériels et zones d’exposition.
  • Interviews exclusives avec chefs d’État, dirigeants économiques, institutions financières, entrepreneurs et jeunes leaders.
  • Reportages immersifs depuis les pavillons pays & entreprises, Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX), Automotive Show, Youth and Women in Trade Programmes, et Investment Deal Rooms.
  • Analyses approfondies sur les perspectives de l’AfCFTA, la transformation industrielle verte et l’ajout de valeur continentale.

Suivez l’IATF 2025 avec Africa24

Vivez chaque temps fort de cet événement continental en direct, en replay ou à la demande :

  • AFRICA24 en Francais (chaîne 249), AFRICA24 English (chaîne 254) du bouquet Canal+Afrique
  • Application MyAfrica24 (googlePlay)
  • Site web www.Africa24tv.com, avec reportages exclusifs, analyses, interviews et dossiers spéciaux

Avec le Groupe Africa24, Ensemble Transformons l’Afrique

Distribué par APO Group pour AFRICA24 Group.

Contact:
Direction de la Communication – Groupe Africa24

Gaëlle Stella Oyono
Email : onana@africa24tv.com
Tél. : +237 694 90 99 88
www.Africa24tv.com

Suivez-nous :
@ africa24tv

À propos du Groupe Africa24 :
Fondé en 2009, Africa24 est le premier groupe média TV et numérique dédié à l’Afrique. Il propose quatre chaînes HD 24h/24 (information, sport, créativité) et la plateforme de streaming HD MyAfrica24. Repris par les principaux bouquets internationaux (Canal+, Orange, etc.), il couvre plus de 80 millions de foyers et rassemble plus de 8 millions d’abonnés numériques.

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CORRECTION- AFREXIMBANK: Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2025 AFRICA24 – an Exceptional Coverage

Source: APO

From 4 to 10 September 2025 in Algiers (Algeria), the fourth edition of the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) will take place in the Algerian capital, under the theme “Building Bridges for a Successful AfCFTA.” Organized by Afreximbank in collaboration with the African Union Commission and the AfCFTA Secretariat, this fair stands as a major strategic platform to boost intra-African trade, attract investments, and strengthen continental integration.

This edition will bring together more than 1,600 exhibitors, 35,000 participants, and delegations from 75 countries, with an expected business volume exceeding USD 44 billion. It will highlight key sectors such as innovation, value-added industrialization, technology, creative industries, automotive, youth, and women in business.

IATF, a Driver of Transformation

The stakes of IATF 2025 are of the highest importance. The event aims to support the rise of a truly unified African market, backed by the power of 1.4 billion consumers and a combined GDP of more than USD 3.4 trillion. It also seeks to promote deeper economic integration under the AfCFTA, through the signing of concrete trade agreements and the organization of strategic sectoral forums.

Beyond trade exchanges, IATF 2025 will showcase African innovations in key areas such as technology, agriculture, sustainable industry, and creativity. Special focus will be placed on the inclusion of youth, women, and entrepreneurs, whose dynamism remains a key driver of the continent’s economic transformation.

Africa24’s 360° Editorial Coverage

Africa24, the leading digital and TV pan-African media group, is deploying a comprehensive audiovisual and digital coverage to bring IATF 2025 to life:

  • Live broadcasts of opening sessions, sectoral panels, ministerial forums, and exhibition zones.
  • Exclusive interviews with Heads of State, business leaders, financial institutions, entrepreneurs, and young leaders.
  • Immersive reports from country and company pavilions, Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX), Automotive Show, Youth and Women in Trade Programmes, and Investment Deal Rooms.
  • In-depth analysis on AfCFTA prospects, green industrial transformation, and value addition across Africa.

Follow IATF 2025 with Africa24

Experience every highlight of this continental event live, on replay, or on demand:

  • AFRICA24 in French (Channel 249) and AFRICA24 English (Channel 254) on Canal+Afrique
  • MyAfrica24 app (Google Play)
  • Website www.Africa24tv.com with exclusive reports, analyses, interviews, and special features.

With Africa24 Group: Together, Let’s Transform Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of AFRICA24 Group.

Contact:
Communication Department – Africa24 Group
Gaëlle Stella Oyono
Email: onana@africa24tv.com
Tel: +237 694 90 99 88 
www.Africa24tv.com

Follow us:
@ africa24tv 

About Africa24 Group:
Founded in 2009, Africa24 is the first TV and digital media group dedicated to Africa. It offers four HD channels broadcasting 24/7 (news, sports, creativity) and the HD streaming platform MyAfrica24. Carried by major international operators (Canal+, Orange, etc.), Africa24 reaches more than 80 million households and gathers over 8 million digital subscribers.

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Le Comité International Olympique (CIO) invite à créer les médailles des Jeux Olympiques de la Jeunesse de Dakar 2026

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Esprits créatifs et fans des Jeux partout dans le monde, le moment est venu d’écrire une page de l’histoire olympique. Vous avez désormais la possibilité de créer l’un des symboles les plus puissants des Jeux en concevant l’avers de la médaille des Jeux Olympiques de la Jeunesse (JOJ) de Dakar 2026. Le motif retenu figurera sur les médailles remises aux athlètes qui monteront sur le podium au Sénégal. Les projets peuvent être envoyés du 2 septembre au 7 octobre 2025 via une plateforme spécifique sur le site web olympics.com.

Le créateur de l’avers de la médaille des JOJ de Gangwon 2024, Dante Akira Uwai, a expliqué l’impact qu’avait eu sur sa vie sa participation au concours 2024 : “Énormément de choses ont changé depuis Gangwon. Le concours de création de médailles m’a ouvert de nombreux débouchés, en particulier professionnels. Mais je pense que le changement le plus important a été intérieur. J’ai pu prendre toute la mesure du pouvoir de transformation qu’ont l’art et le sport.”

En plus de pouvoir envoyer leurs créations du 2 septembre au 7 octobre 2025 via la plateforme spécifique sur olympics.com (https://apo-opa.co/4mTEo6H), les candidat(e)s auront également accès à une boîte à outils pour la création des médailles contenant des prescriptions techniques, des lignes directrices ainsi que le règlement. Les propositions seront jugées sur la base de cinq critères : la créativité, l’originalité, la pertinence par rapport au récit des JOJ, la faisabilité et la description écrite.

Un jury composé du président de la commission de coordination du Comité International Olympique (CIO) pour Dakar 2026, Humphrey Kayange OLY, du gagnant du concours de création des médailles de Gangwon 2024, Dante Akira Uwai, des jeunes leaders du CIO, Peniamina Percival OLY et Pragnya Mohan, des jeunes reporters du CIO, Yun Su Park et Yann Durand, et de l’ambassadeur de Dakar 2026, Elzo Jamdong, examinera les motifs proposés, en établira un classement et fera part de ses recommandations à la commission exécutive du CIO pour approbation.

Le revers de la médaille sera conçu par le comité d’organisation de Dakar 2026 et intégrera des éléments de la culture sénégalaise ainsi que l’emblème des JOJ.

“Le pouvoir de transformation qu’ont l’art et le sport”

La possibilité de concevoir l’avers de la médaille a été offerte pour la première fois à l’occasion des JOJ de Singapour 2010, lorsque la Japonaise Setsuko Fukuzawa a créé le motif “Yes Youth Can”. Depuis, de jeunes designers originaires de Slovaquie, de Roumanie, d’Indonésie, de Nouvelle-Zélande et du Brésil ont vu leurs créations remises aux athlètes sur les podiums des JOJ. Pour les JOJ de Gangwon 2024, plus de 3 000 créations provenant de 120 pays avaient été envoyées. L’artiste et architecte brésilien Dante Akira Uwai avait ainsi été sélectionné pour son projet “A Sparkling Future” (Un avenir étincelant).

“Lorsque j’ai conçu ma médaille, j’ai visualisé l’athlète qui la recevait”, a confié Dante Akira Uwai. Qu’est-ce que je veux qu’il ou elle ressente ? Qu’est-ce que je veux qu’il ou elle voit ? Et lorsqu’il ou elle sera plus âgé(e) et repensera à ce moment, quels souvenirs la médaille devrait-elle lui évoquer lorsqu’il ou elle la verra accrochée au mur ?”

Se remémorant les JOJ de Gangwon 2024, il a ajouté : “Je pense que le souvenir le plus marquant a été de voir la remise de la toute première médaille. J’avais imaginé cette scène pendant toute une année, et lorsqu’elle s’est enfin produite, ce fut un moment très, très émouvant.”

Pour rappel, les JOJ de Dakar 2026 se tiendront sur deux semaines à partir du 31 octobre et réuniront les meilleurs jeunes athlètes du monde (âgés de 17 ans au maximum). Les Jeux se dérouleront sur trois sites hôtes : Dakar, Diamniadio et Saly.

Distribué par APO Group pour International Olympic Committee (IOC).

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International Olympic Committee (IOC) launches call for medal designs for Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games

Source: APO

Creatives and Olympic fans now have the chance to leave their mark on Olympic history. A global call is open to shape one of the most meaningful symbols of the Games by designing the obverse side of the medal for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG). The selected design will feature on the medals awarded to athletes who reach the podium in Senegal. Designs can be submitted from 2 September to 7 October 2025 through a dedicated platform on Olympics.com.

The designer of the obverse of the Gangwon 2024 medal, Dante Akira Uwai, explained the impact that his participation in 2024 had on his life: “A lot has changed since Gangwon. Many opportunities have opened up to me thanks to the medal design competition, especially for my career. But I think the most important change was actually internal. It was realising the transformative power of both art and sport.”

As well as being able to submit their designs from 2 September to 7 October 2025 through the dedicated platform on Olympics.com (https://apo-opa.co/4mTEo6H), candidates can also access a toolkit with design specifications, guidelines and rules. Entries will be judged on five criteria: creativity, originality, relevance to the YOG narrative, feasibility and the written description.

A jury featuring International Olympic Committee (IOC) Dakar 2026 Coordination Commission Chair Humphrey Kayange OLY; Gangwon 2024 medal design competition winner Dante Akira Uwai; IOC Young Leaders Peniamina Percival OLY and Pragnya Mohan; IOC Young Reporters Yun Su Park and Yann Durand; and Dakar 2026 ambassador Elzo Jamdong, will review applications, rank designs and share their recommendation with the IOC Executive Board for validation.

The reverse of the medal will be developed by the Dakar 2026 Organising Committee and will incorporate Senegalese cultural elements alongside the YOG emblem.

“The transformative power of both art and sport”

The opportunity to design the obverse of the medal was first introduced for the Singapore 2010 YOG, when Japan’s Setsuko Fukuzawa created the “Yes Youth Can” design. Since then, young designers from Slovakia, Romania, Indonesia, New Zealand and Brazil have seen their creations presented to athletes on the YOG podium. For Gangwon 2024, more than 3,000 entries from 120 countries were submitted, with Brazilian artist and architect Dante Akira Uwai selected for his design, “A Sparkling Future”.

“One thing that happened to me a lot when designing my medal was to visualise the athlete receiving it,” said Uwai. “What do I want them to feel? What do I want them to see? And when they are older and full of stories to tell, what memories should the medal bring back when they see it hanging on the wall?”

Looking back on Gangwon 2024, he added: “I think the most impactful memory was seeing the medal being awarded to an athlete for the very first time. I had imagined that scene for a whole year, and when it finally happened, it was a very, very emotional moment.”

The Dakar 2026 YOG will take place over two weeks from 31 October, bringing together the world’s best young athletes up to the age of 17. The Games will be held across three host sites: Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Olympic Committee (IOC).

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La République du Congo mettra en avant sa vision stratégique en matière d’énergie avec le Premier ministre Anatole Collinet Makosso lors d’un événement consacré à l’énergie au Cap

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


La République du Congo sera à l’honneur lors de l’African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 : Invest in African Energies au Cap, où le Premier ministre Anatole Collinet Makosso dirigera une délégation de haut niveau représentant le président Denis Sassou Nguesso. La présence du Premier ministre souligne l’engagement du gouvernement à intégrer la croissance du secteur énergétique aux priorités nationales en matière de développement, témoignant à la fois de la stabilité politique et d’une vision claire pour une expansion économique durable.

Le projet Congo LNG est au cœur de la stratégie du Congo. En août 2025, l’unité flottante de GNL Nguya, d’une capacité de 2,4 millions de tonnes par an (MTPA), a quitté Shanghai pour rejoindre la concession offshore Marine XII. Cela fait suite à l’exploitation réussie du Tango FLNG, qui a commencé sa production en décembre 2023. Ensemble, ces installations porteront la production de GNL du pays à 3 MTPA d’ici la fin 2025, renforçant ainsi le rôle du Congo en tant qu’exportateur régional de GNL. Au-delà de la production d’énergie, ces projets contribuent au développement national en générant des emplois, en renforçant les compétences locales et en créant des opportunités pour la participation du secteur privé dans les infrastructures et le transport maritime.

En aval, la raffinerie de Fouta, située près de Pointe-Noire, devrait entrer en service en 2025. Avec une production annuelle de 2,5 millions de tonnes de produits raffinés, notamment de l’essence, du diesel, du kérosène et des matières premières pétrochimiques, elle réduira la dépendance du pays vis-à-vis des importations tout en soutenant la croissance industrielle et le développement du contenu local. Ce projet, associé à la modernisation en cours de la raffinerie CORAF, représente un point de convergence entre la stratégie énergétique et la politique économique, offrant aux investisseurs des possibilités de partenariats, de fourniture de technologies et de contrats de gestion opérationnelle qui contribuent à des objectifs socio-économiques plus larges.

Le gouvernement investit également massivement dans les infrastructures énergétiques, notamment dans un pipeline reliant le port occidental de Pointe-Noire à Brazzaville. Ce projet, mené en collaboration avec des partenaires internationaux, améliorera l’efficacité du transport de carburant, renforcera la sécurité énergétique nationale et favorisera l’intégration régionale. Cette initiative illustre l’approche du Congo, qui consiste à combiner une planification stratégique avec des opportunités d’investissement concrètes, créant ainsi les bases d’une croissance durable à long terme.

« La présence du Premier ministre Anatole Collinet Makosso à l’AEW 2025 souligne l’engagement de la République du Congo à transformer son secteur énergétique en un moteur de la croissance nationale. En développant la production de GNL, en développant les raffineries locales et en modernisant les infrastructures, le gouvernement crée un environnement propice à l’investissement tout en favorisant le développement socio-économique et la sécurité énergétique », déclare NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie.

AEW 2025 : Invest in African Energies offre à la République du Congo une plateforme pour présenter sa stratégie énergétique intégrée, attirer des partenariats internationaux et mettre en évidence la manière dont la croissance du secteur énergétique peut favoriser la construction nationale et la réalisation des objectifs politiques. La présence du Premier ministre Makosso montre que le pays se positionne activement comme un partenaire fiable et tourné vers l’avenir dans l’expansion énergétique de l’Afrique.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

Republic of Congo to Highlight Strategic Energy Vision with Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makosso at Cape Town Energy Event

Source: APO


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The Republic of Congo will take center stage at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025: Invest in African Energies in Cape Town, with Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makosso leading a high-level delegation to represent President Denis Sassou Nguesso. The Prime Minister’s presence underscores the government’s commitment to integrating energy sector growth with national development priorities, signaling both political stability and a clear vision for sustainable economic expansion.

A centerpiece of Congo’s strategy is the Congo LNG project. In August 2025, the Nguya Floating LNG unit, with a capacity of 2.4 million tons per annum (MTPA), set sail from Shanghai to the Marine XII offshore concession. This follows the successful operation of the Tango FLNG, which began production in December 2023. Together, these facilities will raise the country’s LNG output to 3 MTPA by the end of 2025, strengthening Congo’s role as a regional LNG exporter. Beyond energy production, these projects contribute to national development by generating employment, building local skills and creating opportunities for private sector participation in infrastructure and shipping.

Downstream, the Fouta Refinery, located near Pointe-Noire, is expected to begin operations in 2025. Producing 2.5 million tons annually of refined products – including gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and petrochemical feedstocks – it will reduce the nation’s dependence on imports while supporting industrial growth and local content development. The project – along with ongoing modernization of the CORAF refinery – represents an intersection of energy strategy and economic policy, offering investors potential for partnerships, technology supply and operational management contracts that contribute to broader socioeconomic objectives.

The government is also heavily investing in energy infrastructure, including a pipeline linking Pointe-Noire’s western port to Brazzaville. The project, undertaken in collaboration with international partners, will enhance fuel transport efficiency, strengthen domestic energy security and support regional integration. The initiative exemplifies Congo’s approach to combining strategic policy planning with practical investment opportunities, creating a foundation for sustainable long-term growth.

“The presence of Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makosso at AEW 2025 underscores the Republic of Congo’s commitment to transforming its energy sector into a driver of national growth. By expanding LNG production, developing local refineries and upgrading infrastructure, the government is creating a robust environment for investment while advancing socioeconomic development and energy security,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.

AEW 2025: Invest in African Energies provides the Republic of Congo with a platform to showcase its integrated energy strategy, attract international partnerships and highlight how energy sector growth can drive broader nation-building and policy objectives. Prime Minister Makosso’s presence signals that the country is actively positioning itself as a reliable and forward-looking partner in Africa’s energy expansion.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Basketball Africa League (BAL) & Chiney Ogwumike Celebrate Young Women in Basketball in Lagos

Source: APO


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The Basketball Africa League (BAL) (https://BAL.NBA.com), through its BAL4HER platform, in collaboration with two-time WNBA All-Star and BAL Ambassador Chiney Ogwumike and her foundation “Queens of the Continent” celebrated young women in basketball at a three-day event in Lagos last weekend. The on-court activities were led by Chiney Ogwumike, Nigeria Men’s National Team Head Coach Abdulrahman Mohammed and BAL staff and Senegalese basketball Player Fatou Diagne.

The program featured a networking and leadership session, an U23 basketball camp, and an U16 clinic in Lagos, Nigeria, from August 29-31.

This three-day event marks the first-ever BAL4HER initiative in Nigeria, in partnership with the Queens of the Continent Foundation, celebrating women in basketball.

Networking & Leadership Session to Inspire: August 29

One-hundred young women, including 20 U23 players and female professionals in sports selected via an online application process, tipped off the weekend with an inspiring networking and leadership evening hosted by Ogwumike. This event included two panel discussions centered around themes: “Celebrating Nigeria’s AfroBasket Champions & the Rise of Women’s Basketball” and “Sport as a Pathway to Opportunity and Impact in Africa.”

The speakers included leading voices in sport, public figures and leadership and youth empowerment such as Aituaje Aina Vivian Ebele Iruob (http://apo-opa.co/4p3Gbrb), Chioma Omeruah (http://apo-opa.co/3UWlQq5), Omawumi Megbele (http://apo-opa.co/3JGvQkZ), Taye Adeniy (http://apo-opa.co/45IHlAW) and Tega Dominic (http://apo-opa.co/46iGjM7). 

BAL4HER U23 Camp & U16 Clinic at the American International School of Lagos: August 30–31

On August 30, the 20 selected U23 athletes took part in an intensive basketball camp, featuring combine drills, game play, and career pathway discussions with Fatou. Following the camp, 32 local coaches participated in a BAL Advance coaches clinic led by Coach Abdulrahman Mohamed.

On August 31, 45 selected U16 girls from local communities participated in a clinic led by U23 players, who served as mentors and role models. The activity focused on passing down skills, guidance, and inspiration to the next generation.

The three-day events focused on basketball fundamentals while equipping the young athletes with tools to enable them to serve as mentors on and off the court.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Basketball Africa League (BAL).

Kindly visit this link (http://apo-opa.co/41vKv8O) to access the images from the camp (Credit : BAL)
(Hashtags: #theBAL) 

Afreximbank delivers solid first half 2025 results, in line with expectations

Source: APO – Report:

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African Export-Import Bank Group (Afreximbank/Group) (www.Afreximbank.com) has released its consolidated financial statements for the six months ended 30 June 2025 (H1’2025).

Amid heightened geopolitical tensions, persistent inflationary pressures, currency volatility, and tighter global financing conditions, the Afreximbank Group delivered, once again, satisfactory results for the first half of the year (H1’2025). This performance, which surpassed that of the 2024 comparative period, reflected higher net income, a robust liquidity position, and strengthened capital buffers, positioning the Group to better fulfil its mandate across its member states in Africa and the Caribbean Community.

Gross income grew by 2.04% over the comparative period, reaching US$1.6 billion for the H1’2025. Net interest income stood at US$835.9 million, representing a 1.17% increase over the prior period. This modest growth was achieved despite the decline in global benchmark rates, largely reflecting the Group’s efficient management of funding costs. Gross fee and commission income arising from unfunded activities, including issuance of guarantees, letters of credit (contingent liabilities) and provision of advisory services amounted to US$61.9 million.

Notwithstanding the 21% increase in operating expenses, the Group maintained a very favourable cost-to-income ratio of 19%, broadly in line with the historical levels, and well below the strategic ceiling of 30%. The increase in expenses was mainly driven by the implementation of strategic initiatives, and the recruitment of additional staff to support the Group’s growing activities and inflationary pressures,

Afreximbank’s on-balance sheet and contingent items closed H1’2025 at US$42.5 billion, representing a growth of 6.0% over the position as at 31 December 2025 (FY’2024). Loans and advances (the portfolio) stood at US$27.7 billion (FY’2024: US$29.0 billion). This reported decrease in the loans and advances portfolio was on account of early repayments by some sovereign borrowers, who benefited from stronger commodity prices and improved foreign currency positions. With non-performing loans (NPLs) at 2.48% for H1’2025 (FY’2024: 2.33%), the quality of the portfolio remained sound and well within prudent levels. The Bank’s liquidity ratio improved significantly to close the period at 22% (FY’2024:13%) as cash and cash equivalents held amounted to US$8.3 billion (FY’2024:US$4.6 billion).

Shareholders’ funds increased to US$7.3 billion (FY’2024:US$7.2billion), driven by internally generated profits of US$412.7 million and fresh equity inflows under the ongoing General Capital Increase II. A total dividend of US$350 million in respect of FY’2024 was appropriated following shareholders’ approval at the last AGM held in June 2025.

Afreximbank is also delighted to welcome Dr. George Elombi, who was unanimously approved by shareholders at our Annual General Meeting in June 2025 as the fourth President and Chairman of the Board of Directors succeeding Professor Benedict Oramah who completes his second term in office in October 2025. This appointment comes after Dr. Elombi’s distinguished career with the Bank, spanning nearly three decades, where he currently serves as Executive Vice President in charge of Governance, Legal, and Corporate Services.

Mr. Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s Senior Executive Vice President, commented:

“Afreximbank Group reported satisfactory performance in the first half of 2025, demonstrating agility and resilience despite operating in a challenging environment. The Group continued to support member states with innovative financial solutions, leveraging on a robust capital base, access to capital markets as reflected in the healthy liquidity position and Management’s excellent knowledge of the African and Caribbean markets. Management’s unwavering commitment to its developmental mandate, advancing Africa’s and the Caribbean region’s development through trade, industrialisation and economic integration, remain the cornerstone of the Group’s success.

The Group’s fundamentals remain strong, and management continues to focused on delivering long-term value to all stakeholders, while safeguarding Africa’s financial sovereignty.”

Highlights of the results for the Group are shown below:

Financial Performance Metrics

H1’2025

H1’2024

Gross Income (US$ million)

1 588.2

1 556.5

Net Income (US$ million)

412.7

407.7

Return on average equity (ROAE)

11%

13%

Return on average assets (ROAA)

2.22%

2.52%

Cost-to-income ratio

19%

17%

Financial Position Metrics

H1’2025

FY’2024

Total on balance sheet assets and contingencies (US$ billion)

42.5

40.1

Total Assets (US$ billion)

37.7

35.3

Total Liabilities (US$ billion)

30.4

28.1

Shareholders’ Funds (US$ billion)

7.3

7.2

Net asset value per share

US$70,140

US$69,695

Non-performing loans ratio (NPL)

2.48%

2.33%

Cash/Total assets

22%

13%

Capital Adequacy ratio (Basel II)

24%

24%

– on behalf of Afreximbank.

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

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About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (the “Bank”) is a multilateral trade finance institution, established in October 1993. It commenced operations in September 1994. The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt. The Bank’s mandate is to promote, finance and facilitate intra-and extra-African trade while operating commercially.

The Bank has 100 percent controlling interests in FEDA Holdings, FEDA Investments Management and FEDA Capital (collectively known as FEDA entities) which were established in 2021. FEDA was initiated by Afreximbank and established by a Treaty amongst Africa participating states to facilitate foreign direct investment flows into Africa’s trade and tradable sectors and to fill the equity funding gap in the continent. The Bank incorporated Afreximbank Insurance Management Company (AfrexInsure) in 2021. The objective of this vehicle is to help Africa to retain, on the continent, a sizeable proportion of trade-related written insurance premiums. Additionally, the Bank has also incorporated two entities: African Medical Centre of Excellence Limited (AMCE), whose principal activities include providing world-class medical and health facilities, and African Quality Assurance Centre Limited (AQAC), a company established to ensure that products made in Africa meet applicable international standards and technical regulations. AQAC offers testing, inspection, and certification services, including the provision of conformity assessment training. In addition, the Bank holds controlling interest in AFCFTA Adjustment Fund Corporation Limited (AFCFTA), and CANEX Creations Incorporated (CANEX).

The Bank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-).

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:
African Export-Import Bank Group (Afreximbank/Group) makes written and/or oral forward-looking statements, as shown in this release and other communications, from time to time. Likewise, officers of the Bank may make forward-looking statements either in writing or during verbal conversations with investors, analysts, the media, and other members of the investment community. Statements regarding the Bank’s strategies, objectives, priorities, and anticipated financial performance for the period constitute forward-looking statements. They are often described with words like “should”, “would”, “may”, “could”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “project”, “intend”, and “believe”.

By their very nature, these statements require the Bank to make assumptions subject to risks and uncertainties, especially uncertainties related to the financial, economic, regulatory, and social environment within which the Bank operates. Some of these risks are beyond the control of the Bank and may result in materially different results from the expectations inferred from the forward-looking statements. Risk factors that could cause such differences include regulatory pronouncements, credit, market (including equity, commodity, foreign exchange, and interest rate), liquidity, operational, reputational, insurance, strategic, legal, environmental, and other known and unknown risks. As a result, when making decisions with respect to the Bank, we recommend that readers apply further assessment and should not unduly rely on the Bank’s forward-looking statements.

Any forward-looking statement contained in this presentation represents the views of management only as of the date hereof. They are presented to assist the Bank’s investors and analysts to understand the Bank’s financial position, strategies, objectives, priorities, and anticipated financial performance in relation to the current period, and, as such, may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Bank does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or verbal, that may be made from time to time by it or on its behalf, except as required under applicable relevant regulatory provisions or requirements.

SA expands agricultural sector to new markets

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

While facing global trade challenges, South Africa is proactively building a more resilient agricultural sector and working on diversifying its trade portfolio.

“We’ve made significant progress in opening up vast new markets and securing vital protocols for products like citrus and others. We are confidently expanding our reach and creating new opportunities for our agricultural producers,” Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Narend Singh, said on Tuesday.

Addressing the 80th anniversary of the Independence Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam at an event in Pretoria, Singh said South Africa is proactively and collaboratively diversifying its trade portfolio. 

Under the coordinated leadership of the Presidency, the South African government is making significant inroads into new high-growth markets across Asia and the Middle East. 

“These efforts are not only opening doors to new opportunities but also reinforcing our commitment to retaining the vital markets we already have. While the current global economic environment present challenges, it also presents opportunities to build and accelerate the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and to develop new partnerships in markets that have remained untapped, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN),” the Deputy Minister said. 

He emphasised that it was essential that Vietnam and South Africa explore concrete ways to deepen collaboration, whether through joint ventures, knowledge exchange, or policy alignment to ensure shared progress that translates into tangible benefits for citizens. 

“The international community faces a complex array of challenges that threaten global stability and prosperity. These include geopolitical tensions, economic inequality and trade uncertainties, social unrest and human rights concerns. 

“It is the hope of my government that we will continue to work to deepen our relationship and learn from each other’s experiences, share knowledge, and explore new opportunities for cooperation. We look forward to strengthening our partnership and working together to promote peace, prosperity, and development in our countries but also in the regions we find ourselves in,” Singh said. SAnews.gov.za