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Task team to tackle foot-and-mouth disease established

Source: Government of South Africa

Task team to tackle foot-and-mouth disease established

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has announced the establishment of an Industry -Government Task Team to strengthen South Africa’s response to animal diseases, with a particular focus on foot-and-mouth disease (FMD).

The task team, comprising representatives from government and the red meat industry, will coordinate efforts to improve prevention, management, and control of animal diseases.

Steenhuisen said the task team will report directly to the value chain roundtables, which bring together all stakeholders in the livestock sector.

The Minister made the announcement during a media briefing on Monday, 1 September 2025, where he outlined critical interventions to curb persistent FMD outbreaks across a number of provinces.

“The task team will ensure better coordination, enforcement and accountability in tackling animal disease outbreaks,” Steenhuisen said.

The task team establishment follows a Bosberaad (strategic bush meeting) convened in July by the Department of Agriculture, in partnership with the Agricultural Research Council (ARC).

At the meeting, Steenhuisen noted that current responses are fragmented, with lack of sufficient enforcement and coordination, factors that have contributed to the persistence of outbreaks.

Among the key measures proposed at the meeting included revising control zones, expanding capacity for sampling and diagnostics, increasing access to vaccines, and strengthening livestock identification and traceability systems.

The stakeholder also highlighted the importance of enforcing biosecurity, with experts warning that without it, containment measures will remain compromised.

Vaccine procurement and distribution

Giving an update on the country’s FMD status, Steenhuisen confirmed that 900 000 vaccine doses worth R72 million had been procured from the Botswana Vaccine Institute for the current financial year.

“The first 500 000 doses arrived in June and were used to vaccinate cattle in KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, Gauteng, North West and Free State. Just over a week ago, we received the remaining 400 000 doses of which 50 000 are already distributed,” the Minister said.

He said the remaining doses of the vaccine will go to the provinces currently experiencing active outbreaks, including the Free State, Mpumalanga, North West and Gauteng.

Over 250 unresolved FMD outbreaks

Currently, there are 274 unresolved outbreaks across KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Free State, North West and Mpumalanga.

Positive cases have been confirmed in all cattle farming systems, ranging from commercial beef herds, animal breeding, feedlots, dairy cattle, and communal herds.

In KwaZulu-Natal, outbreaks continue to spread westward, with confirmed cases in municipalities including Dundee, Dannhauser, Newcastle, Alfred Duma, Okhahlamba, uMshwathi, eDumbe and eMadlangeni.

While the disease appears to have abated in the eastern part of the province’s Disease Management Area, 180 outbreaks remain active in KwaZulu-Natal. The virus is believed to have spread from KwaZulu-Natal into Mpumalanga through an auction in February, before spreading to Gauteng, North West, western Mpumalanga and Free State by late May.

According to Steenhuisen, investigations point to both farm-to-farm transmission and “pinpoint” introductions linked to livestock movements where isolation protocols were  not observed. Current outbreak cases stand at 54 in Gauteng, 26 in North West, nine in Mpumalanga and five in the Free State.

The Minister urged farmers to comply with legislation and biosecurity protocols.

“Reports of farmers moving cattle showing clinical signs of the disease, or treating them privately without reporting, are deeply concerning and irresponsible. These actions not only contravene legal directives but risk entrenching FMD as endemic in South Africa,” he said.

“All livestock farmers are urged to cooperate fully with veterinary officials, report suspected cases immediately to state veterinary, and refrain from moving animals showing clinical signs,” Steenhuisen said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

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Deputy President Mashatile conducts a three-day oversight visit to the Overberg District Municipality, Western Cape Province, 4 – 6 September 2025

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Thursday, 04 to Saturday, 06 September 2025 , conduct an oversight visit the Western Cape Province, in the Overberg District, with the aim of showcasing government efforts to fast-track the Land Reform Programme, supporting community development initiatives, and leading a national initiative launched to promote cleaner and healthier urban and rural environments through community participation. 

Deputy President Mashatile who also chairs the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Land Reform and Agriculture, has prioritised the undertaking of outreach visits to communities and areas which have benefited from the government’s Land Reform programme, to highlight the commitment to fast-track the land restitution and redistribution process, with the overall support for agricultural production and investment in the land.

On Thursday, 04 September, the Deputy President joined by the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mzwanele Nyhontso will visit the Klein Ezeljacht Farm 126, situated in the Theewaterskloof Local Municipality, Caledon. 

The farm which produces apples, pears, grain and livestock, was funded by government through the Land Development Support Programme and has managed to sustain many previously disadvantaged Farmers to reach their full production capacity, in terms of developing their agricultural enterprises, as well as ensuring that they are commercially viable.  

Deputy President Mashatile will then engage with the farming sector representatives with the aim of assessing the provision of farmer’ support to enhance agricultural productivity. These engagements provide a platform for government to play a meaningful role in providing support to emerging farmers in areas of training, mentorship, and financial assistance.  Through the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development, government is committed to address the impediments for growth in the sector, such as lack of adequate access to funding and the prevailing impact of climate change on food security.

To further underscore government commitment to support the positive and important role played by Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and their contribution to socio-economic development, Deputy President Mashatile will on Friday, 05 September , attend the Inaugural Charity Gala Dinner organised by Phawu Lethu Skills Development Training organisation, to be held at the Arabella Golf Course, Kleinmond, in the Overstrand Local Municipality.

Deputy President Mashatile as champion of Social Cohesion and Moral Regeneration initiatives in South Africa, has accepted Phawu Lethu’s invitation, in view of their commitment to support vulnerable communities affected by hunger, natural disasters, and poverty, thus restoring hope and dignity to those impacted by hardship.      

On Saturday, 06 September, Deputy President Mashatile will lead a Clean Cities and Towns campaign at the Zwelihle Township, in the Overstand Local Municipality, as part of fostering cleaner healthier and more sustainable urban and rural environment.

The campaign led by Deputy President Mashatile, supports the country’s developmental objectives by enhancing public health, safety, and infrastructure, and it encourages investments in green energy and innovative technologies to address environmental degradation.

The key focus of the campaign is to promote shared responsibility for clean, healthy spaces, encourage friendly competition among municipalities and mobilise community participation and ownership of public spaces.

Overstrand is home to one of the world’s best land-based whale watching destinations in Hermanus, drawing thousands of local and international tourists each year. The region also boasts Blue Flag beaches, marine conservation areas, and renowned fynbos biodiversity, forming part of the Cape Floral Kingdom. Ecotourism, adventure tourism, and wine tourism are all strong contributors to the Overberg local economy.

Deputy President Mashatile will be accompanied by the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mr Mzwanele Nyhontso, Minister of Tourism, Ms Patricia de Lille, Deputy Ministers of Water and Sanitation, Mr David Mahlobo, and the Mayor of the Overstrand Local Municipality, Cllr Archie Klaas, as well as senior government officials.   

Members of the media are invited to cover as follows:
Date: Thursday, 04 to Saturday, 06 September 2025
Venue: Overberg District, Western Cape Province 
 
Media Programme
Thursday, 04 September 2025 – Land Reform Outreach 
09h00: Arrival of the Deputy President and delegation at the Municipal Council Chambers, Theewaterskloof Municipality in Villiersdorp
10h00: Site visit of the Theewaterskloof Dam
10h50: Farm Visit and Tour of the Klein Ezeljacht Farm near Villiersdorp
11h35: Stakeholder Engagement with the farming sector representatives (on-site at Klein Ezeljacht farm)

Friday, 05 September 2025 – Phawu Lethu Gala Dinner
17h30: Keynote address by the Deputy President at the Phawu Lethu Charity 
Venue: Gala-Dinner Arabella Hotel & Golf Estate, Kleinmond, Hermanus

Saturday, 06 September 2025 – Clean Cities and Towns Campaign (Overstrand Local Municipality)
08h30: Arrival of the Deputy President at Overstrand Local Municipality (Mayor’s Office)
09h30: Deputy President Mashatile leads community cleaning activities at the Zwelihle Township, Ward 05 & 12  
11h15: Deputy President and entourage arrive at Sports Ground and embark on the planting of trees (Ward 06)
11h50: Community feedback session at Zwelihle Community Hall 
13h00: Media Door-stop  

For more information and accreditation, please contact Sam Bopape on 082 318 5251 or Tshiamo Selomo on 066 118 1505.

Media enquiries: Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to Deputy President Mashatile, on 066 195 8840

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

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Sports piracy: The human cost of free content streaming

Source: APO – Report:

The Big Game is imminent. You were planning to watch it at your local restaurant, but you’ve left the planning too late. Now, kick-off approaches, and you don’t want to miss the match. You send a quick text to a friend: “What was the name of that pirate site you used?”

They send the address, and you log on. After closing half a dozen pop-up ads and filling a couple of dialogue boxes, you manage to open a blurry, lo-res window showing the game. It’s glitchy, and the sound is out of sync with the images, but it’s just about watchable. You settle in to watch the game. No harm done, right?

Wrong!

Pirated content is theft

Your decision to watch a pirate stream is not the action of a sports fan. Pirated content is theft. It harms the owners of the content, as well as the producers, the sports associations, and ultimately the players you follow.

Far from supporting your team and the business around it, you’re robbing them!

And when this happens at scale, piracy can cripple and even destroy certain sporting codes. The problem is massive. It’s been estimated that the global sports industry loses around $28-billion (http://apo-opa.co/4mJfYwN) every year due to the pirating of live sports events. That amount is four times the annual revenue of the English Premier League! (http://apo-opa.co/4lZwqb0)

The harm caused by pirated content may not be immediately visible, but it is toxic, far-reaching, and significantly affects every corner of the sport and entertainment industry.

See yourself in their shoes

To understand the harm behind illegal streaming and content piracy, try to see yourself in the shoes of the people you are stealing from.

See yourself in the staff of the legal sports channels who run the risk of losing their jobs because their employer cannot recoup the cost of the sports rights that they purchased for broadcast to their country’s sports enthusiasts.

See yourself in the admin and support staff at the sports league, who lose their only source of income when their organisation becomes unable to sell the broadcast and streaming rights to their tournaments – because streaming the events is no longer viable.

See yourself in the sportsmen and women who become unable to play their sport professionally because their league collapsed when the income from TV and streaming license fees disappeared.

See yourself in the sports fans around the world who could lose the chance to watch the sport they love when the fragile business model that keeps it viable is no longer there.

At the end of the day, we should see ourselves in all the content we consume. It reflects our tastes, our passions, our hopes and dreams – our culture itself. When we undermine the economy behind that content, we betray our own values and sabotage the survival of that content industry.

The legitimate route

However, if we follow the legitimate route, pay our subscription fees and become part of the content industry, then we become investors in the sector that entertains, informs and educates us.

You can identify legitimate sports content by…

  • Quality. An official stream will have crisp, high resolution.
  • Official logos. The latest, licensed branding will be displayed throughout the broadcast or the stream.
  • Uninterrupted. If a stream is constantly interrupted by pop-up ads, or log-in boxes, you’re in the pirate realm.
  • Fair price. If content has value, you will pay a fair price for it. If content is free, it’s probably stolen.

Illegal streaming is far from a victimless crime. It harms thousands of people up and down the content ecosystem. If we honestly support the sports and the teams that we are fans of, then we will work to build a sustainable, ethical digital sector that keeps the sports economy alive.

We can choose to exploit the teams and content business around the sports we follow, and slowly destroy them through our own selfishness. Or, we can support them, build them up and make them stronger.

If we see ourselves in the people who make a living through sport, we will work to grow the sports business and subscribe to legitimate content services. Play fair, follow the rules!

– on behalf of MultiChoice Group.

To report content piracy, contact Partners Against Piracy on any of these channels:
International Hotline: +27 11 289 2684
piracy@multichoice.co.za
mcg@irdeto.com
supersport@irdeto.com
Visit: https://apo-opa.co/4lSvcOA

Media files

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dtic to lead SA business delegation to Intra-African Trade Fair

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) will lead a South African business delegation of 30 companies to the fourth Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), scheduled to take place in Algiers, Algeria, from 4 to 10 September 2025.

The IATF promotes intra-African trade by connecting businesses, investors and policymakers from across the continent and the diaspora.

Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Zuko Godlimpi, said the event offers South Africa an opportunity to showcase its goods and services, attract investment, foster regional integration, and advance the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“Participating in international exhibitions like these is critical to the dtic’s mandate and the objectives of the Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) 2024-2029 to grow the economy, create jobs, industrialisation, localisation, inclusive growth and growing the domestic market and exports,” Godlimpi said.

He added that Algeria, as the host country, holds strategic importance as Africa’s third-largest economy. “It is of importance that we establish direct trade routes to improve trade between the two countries,” he said.

While South Africa currently enjoys a trade surplus under the AfCFTA, Godlimpi noted that preferential trade with Algeria remains limited. He said both countries need to step up efforts to encourage and support preferential trade under the AfCFTA to fully utilise new market access opportunities.

“The trade fair will also foster small and medium enterprise cross-border partnerships, enabling regional value chain integration, and diversifying exports against the backdrop of volatilities in traditional markets,” he said.

The IATF will focus on sectors such as agriculture, automotive, mining, information and communications technology (ICT) and energy. Alongside the exhibition, the programme will feature trade and investment forums as well as industry conferences.

Following previous editions in Cairo (2018 and 2023) and Durban (2021), the IATF 2025 is expected to attract about 35 000 attendees and 1 600 exhibitors. – SAnews.gov.za

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SA steps into Heritage Month

Source: Government of South Africa

As South Africa celebrates Heritage Month this September, Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has urged that museums, archives and heritage sites be repositioned as active drivers of national identity, social change and development.

“Heritage institutions cannot just be museums of dust and silence. They must become places of action, innovation, and opportunity. Young South Africans should walk into a museum or heritage site and see themselves, feel inspired, and leave empowered to shape a better tomorrow,” McKenzie said on Monday.

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) officially launched Heritage Month 2025 under the theme: ‘Reimagine our Heritage Institutions for a New Era’.

The theme reflects a shift from heritage institutions being custodians of memory to serving as platforms for innovation, inclusion and community development.

“The initiative recognises that South Africa’s heritage is not only a reflection of the past but a powerful catalyst for building a dynamic, socially responsive, technologically innovative, and economically inclusive future built on the democratic values of human dignity, equality and supremacy of the rule of law,” McKenzie said.

South Africa’s museums, archives and heritage sites have long preserved the nation’s diverse narratives, especially in the post-apartheid era. But, with evolving socio-economic and technological challenges, government sees the need for these institutions to take on a more active role in shaping society.

“We are entering a new era. Our institutions must reflect the dreams of a new generation. Through technology, creativity, and the full participation of our people, we can turn memory into momentum. The courage of our past heroes must ignite the fire of future innovation,” McKenzie added.

This year, the national Heritage Day celebration will be hosted in Oudtshoorn, Western Cape, in partnership with the provincial government.

Heritage Month 2025 will also pay tribute to the heroes and heroines of the liberation struggle. In collaboration with the Association for Ex-Political Prisoners (AEPP) and the Robben Island Museum (RIM), the department will host a Reunion of Ex-Political Prisoners on 27 September at Robben Island. The event will be held under the theme, ‘Reuniting with Robben Island as the Stronghold that Fortified Our Resistance to Achieve Our Freedom’.

“This symbolic and emotional gathering will pay tribute to Robben Island based ex-political prisoners, those brave, courageous and selfless combatants who put their lives on the line for the attainment of South Africa’s freedom and democracy.

“This event not only honours the legacy of resistance but reconnects our national consciousness with the lived experiences of those who endured incarceration in the name of justice and equality,” McKenzie said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Call for MSMEs to apply for support of up to R23 million

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

The Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) has called on qualifying Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to apply for support of up to R23 million under the Business Infrastructure Support Programme (BISP).

BISP aims to support MSMEs with business enabling machinery, equipment, tools, technology, energy support and infrastructure (newly built or refurbished) and enable market access for MSMEs.

Priority sectors include disaster management, agriculture, manufacturing (food & beverages), medical, automotive, construction, wholesale and retail, mining, services and creative Industries.

Applicants may apply for built Infrastructure – refurbished or new (e.g. MSME hubs, Industrial Parks, market stalls etc) from R1 million up to R23million; equipment, tools, technology and machinery from R 1 million up to R5 million and energy support solutions from R1 million up to R10 million.

Eligible applicants include municipalities; municipal and provincial entities; traditional authorities and registered legal entities (e.g cooperatives, private companies, informal traders).

The programme covers applicants who fall within the category of micro enterprises with a maximum turnover of R10 million, as well as small enterprises with an annual turnover of not more than R10 million.

Applicants are required to complete the BISP application form and submit it together with all required supporting documents as listed in the form, including but not limited to:

  • Financial statements and or management accounts signed by an accountant (where applicable).
  • Compliance documentation (Permits from relevant authorities where applicable e.g. ElA or Land Use -N.B built infrastructure applications).
  • Central Supplier Database (CSD) compliance for suppliers.
  • Technical designs and cost breakdowns.
  • Executive Authority approvals.

Applications must be submitted online by 19 September 2025. The website for applications can be found on https://vcmasa.dsbd.gov.za/. Alternatively, download and complete the official BISP Application form on https://vcmasa.dsbd.gov.za/ and submit the completed application and supporting documents via email to: BISP@dsbd.gov.za.

Applicants will receive an automated response with a reference number confirming receipt of your application. –SAnews.gov.za

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New head of Independent Power Producers Office announced

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Electricity and Energy (DEE) has announced the appointment of experienced power generation executive, Precious Mmabakwena Edward, as the new Head of the Independent Power Producers Office (IPPO).

The appointment is effective from this month with Edward adding some 20 years of experience in the sector to the office.

“She currently serves as the Chief Executive of ENGIE Kathu Solar Facility, one of the first multibillion-rand Concentrated Solar Power [CSP] projects successfully developed under the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producers Procurement Programme [REIPPPP],” the DEE said in a statement.

In this role, Edward oversaw the “stabilisation of operations and delivered strong returns for shareholders” as well as “exemplified the qualities of a servant leader placing people at the centre of her leadership”.

“She has championed career development and skills growth for the workforce, created pathways for small businesses to participate in the energy value chain, and ensured that surrounding communities benefit through meaningful jobs, training, and enterprise opportunities. 

“Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to shared prosperity, inclusivity, and sustainable development in the regions where the facility operates,” the DEE said.

She also worked at Eskom where she served as Head of Fuel Sourcing.

“[She] directed procurement strategies under tight governance controls, and as a Contracts Lead on the Medupi Power Station project, managing multi-billion-rand commercial and contractual frameworks.

“Ms Edward holds a BTech in Electrical Engineering, a Master’s in Business Leadership (MBL) and an LLB[Bachelor of Law] degree. This unique combination of technical, business, and legal expertise equips her to navigate complex operational, financial, and governance challenges at the highest level,” the statement read.

Transforming the IPPO

The DEE explained that Edwards’ appointment comes at a “pivotal moment” for the IPPO as it marks 15 years since establishment.

“Looking forward, the IPPO will be transformed into a more agile, efficient, and impactful institution that responds to modern energy challenges,” the statement said.

Furthermore, under her leadership, the office will:
•    Advance transformation and inclusivity by ensuring greater participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in the energy sector
•    Drive local manufacturing and industrialisation opportunities, aligned with the South African Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM)
•    Maximise socio-economic development benefits in future procurement rounds;
•    Introduce innovative procurement models that strengthen security of supply, affordability, and alignment with South Africa’s just energy transition priorities.

“Ms Edward is widely recognised for her principled, resilient, and values-driven leadership, having received numerous accolades throughout her career. Her appointment marks more than a change in leadership it is a renewal of purpose.

“For the past 15 years, the IPPO has been the engine room powering South Africa’s entry into large-scale renewable energy procurement. Today, under her stewardship, we turn the page to a new chapter: one where the IPPO becomes not only a procurement office, but a catalyst for transformation, industrialisation, and socio-economic inclusion,” the department explained.

Her appointment is in line with the department’s Strategic Plan 2025–2030 which advances priorities including:
•    Achieving Universal Access to Electricity by 2030
•    Promoting industrialisation and localisation
•    Driving a just energy transition with jobs and skills at the centre
•    Strengthening governance, efficiency, and accountability in energy procurement

“As the department advances its Strategic Priorities of achieving universal access to electricity by 2030, accelerating localisation and manufacturing, and driving a just energy transition, Ms Edward’s leadership will be instrumental in steering the IPPO from being a pioneering institution into becoming a symbol of national renewal. 

“Like a bridge built on strong foundations, her role will connect the lessons of the past to the opportunities of the future ensuring that secure, affordable, and transformative energy continues to power South Africa’s development,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Condolences for jazz musician, Ernest "Stompie" Manana

Source: Government of South Africa

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Matome Chiloane has extended his condolences following the passing of legendary jazz musician, Ernest “Stompie” Manana.

Manana passed away on Friday, 29 August at the age of 89.

“Manana was a giant in South African Jazz, whose impact is immeasurable. His contributions shaped South African jazz music beyond being a talented artist performing on global stages, but as a mentor and teacher to others. With the late-great Hugh Masekela as one of his many mentees, Manana’s work will be felt for generations to come. Deepest condolences go to the Manana family, friends and all jazz music players and lovers. We have truly lost a pioneer in the genre,” the MEC said in a statement on Monday.

Manana was a trumpeter and flugelhorn player, who played an instrumental role in revival and preservation of township jazz as a Sophiatown native. 

According to the provincial government, over the course of his 60-year career, Manana recorded music and performed all over the world in revered bands such as the Savoy Havanas, The Cliffs, the Transvaal Jazz Stars, the African Swingsters and the African Jazz Pioneers, of which he was a founding member.

“May his soul rest in eternal peace,” said the MEC. –SAnews.gov.za

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Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) to Spotlight Mining Sector Investments at African Mining Week (AMW) 2025

Source: APO


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As African nations strengthen their positions as global leaders in the production of diamonds, platinum group metals, chromium, uranium, cobalt and other key industrial minerals, development finance institutions – such as the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) – are providing essential funding through loans, equity investments and infrastructure support. 

Molebogeng Mazibuko, Associate Vice President-Investment, AFC and Franklin Edochie, Deputy Director & Head-Metals & Mining, AFC, have been confirmed as speakers at the upcoming African Mining Week 2025 – Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders. 

African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

Mazibuko will deliver a keynote address during AMW’s opening ceremony. The event is set to feature insights into the current state of Africa’s investment and mining landscapes and highlight the AFC’s role in driving mining sector growth across the continent. To date, the AFC has mobilized $14 billion in investments across multiple sectors, contributing over $50 billion to Africa’s GDP (https://apo-opa.co/4mLorzx) and creating more than 7 million jobs. Notable mining-related investments include the Kamoa-Kakula copper mine – the world’s lowest-emission copper operation – which alone contributes 6% to the Democratic Republic of Congo’s GDP. The AFC’s ongoing investment in the Lobito Rail Corridor – a logistics corridor linking Angola, the DRC and Zambia – will cut mineral export times from 45 days to seven. 

Meanwhile, Edochie will speak during The Investor Perspective – Financing Africa’s Mineral Industrialization panel session, which is set to explore best practices and financing strategies to advance local beneficiation and boost mineral production across the continent. Edochie is expected to spotlight the AFC’s recent strategic investments in African mining sector expansion (https://apo-opa.co/4p3cFlm) – including the FG Gold Project in Sierra Leone, Thor Explorations’ initiative in Nigeria, Giyani Metals’ project in Botswana and the Nyanza Light Metals project in South Africa. The AFC is also making strategic investments to unlock Nigeria’s commercial mining space through a partnership with the Solid Minerals Development Fund (https://apo-opa.co/4n8hFn5). 

With the AFC expanding its investment portfolio and Africa harnessing rising mineral demand for economic growth, AMW will connect the AFC representatives with mining projects to form partnerships and sign industry-changing deals. 

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

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Sidi Ould Tah Assumes Office as 9th President of the African Development Bank Group

Source: APO

History was made today when Dr. Sidi Ould Tah was sworn-in, as the ninth President of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) (www.AfDB.org).  

At exactly11:04 Abidjan time, on a rainswept Monday morning, Dr. Sidi took his oath-of-office, at the helm of Africa’s premier development finance institution succeeding Dr Akinwumi A. Adesina who has completed his two terms.  

Côte d’Ivoire’s President Alassane Ouattara, and his Mauritanian counterpart President, Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, graced the elaborate high-level ceremony held at the Sofitel Abidjan Hôtel Ivoire. Former African Development Bank Group Presidents Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, and Dr. Donald Kaberuka, as well as the Bank Group’s Board of Governors, including Executive Directors, staff and international dignitaries were in attendance to witness the change of leadership. The Republic of the Congo’s economy minister Ludovic Ngatse in his capacity as Chair of the Board of Governors of the Bank presided over the swearing in-ceremony.  

Dr. Ould Tah, 60, who hails from the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, was elected on 29 May 2025 with over 76% of shareholder votes—the highest margin for a first-term president in the Bank’s history.  

President Ouattara termed the change of leadership a “milestone which comes at a historic moment in the life of our pan-African institution” and “paves the way for a new era of hope for the Bank.” 

In his congratulatory remarks delivered immediately after the swearing-in ceremony President Ghazouani noted that, “Dr. Sidi Ould Tah has this heavy responsibility to ensure that the Bank enhances its key role in promoting the economic and social development of the continent, for it to remain a full lever in terms of fulfilling the aspirations of African people to peace, prosperity and development.” 

President Ghazouani expressed confidence in the Bank’s new president to deliver for the continent.  

“We will be the Bank that bridges divides-between regions, between ambitions and execution, between public and private, between urgency and bureaucracy. Let us move forward together – with urgency, with unity, and with unwavering accountability.” Ould Tah said in his well-received inaugural speech. 

Dr. Ould Tah outlined his Four Cardinal Points which include, listening intently; launching a fast-track reform agenda; deepening partnerships and accelerating real solutions as the core priorities which will guide his presidency in the first 100-days of office.  

The new President reiterated that the Bank will be “attentive, responsive, and capable of setting priorities that matter.”  He went on to note that the Bank will enhance partnerships by working closely with governments, the private sector, and international partners, “so that together we create a financial framework that serves Africa on its own terms.” 

Dr Ould Tah acknowledged the presence of Bank partners including Finance in Common, the Alliance of African Financial Institutions, the International Development Finance Club, and the Arab Coordination Group, and pledged his readiness “to expand the Bank’s partnership to new players such as sovereign funds, pension funds and others”. Additionally, he made a commitment to “urgently revisit our investment models to include a dedicated pillar for investment in peace.” 

President Ould Tah affirmed his intention to organise a Townhall “in the coming days” for Bank staff, whom he described as the “institution’s most valuable resource.” 

Envisioning a vital role for the Bank as a guide for a continent confronting the 21st century challenges of demographics, technology and climate change, Ould Tah said: “Africa must look North, South, East and West—not to imitate, but to draw wisdom and strength from every direction while defining its own course. Like a navigator guided by the compass, the Bank should help Africa navigate the megatrends toward increased self-reliance, ambition, and agency,” he said. However, he stressed, this important leadership role in crafting universal solutions “shaped by African perspectives, African priorities, and African agency” must be approached in a selective manner, saying, “The African Development Bank should not aim to be everything to everyone. It should focus on where it can move the needle most, always with the spirit of partnership.” 

Dr. Ould Tah is the former President of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), where he oversaw a landmark institutional transformation. Under his leadership, BADEA’s assets grew from $4 billion to nearly $7 billion, annual approvals increased twelvefold and disbursements eightfold; and the institution achieved AA+/AAA credit ratings.  

He brings to the Presidency of the African Development Bank Group over four decades of distinguished experience in development banking, economic policy, and institutional transformation. He also previously served as Minister of Economy and Finance of Mauritania between 2008 and 2015, and Mauritania’s Governor on the Boards of the African Development Bank, World Bank and the Islamic Development Bank, among others.  

Fluent in Arabic, English and French, with working proficiency in Portuguese and Spanish languages, President Ould Tah holds a PhD in Economics from University of Nice Sophia Antipolis, France, and advanced degrees from Paris VII-Jussieu and University of Nouakchott. 

Dr. Ould Tah inherits a pan-African institution with robust fundamentals: $318 billion in capital, AAA credit ratings maintained for 10 consecutive years, and the world’s highest transparency score for a sovereign portfolio, at 98.8%. Over the past decade, the Bank has approved $102 billion in development financing.  

The audience at the swearing-in ceremony included representatives of international institutions and development partners, private sector, civil society, diplomats, members of the Bank’s Board of Directors, and staff. Three of the candidates who contested for the Presidency alongside Dr. Ould Tah—Ms. Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala, Mr. Amadou Hott and Dr. Samuel Munzele Maimbo—were also in attendance.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media Contact:  
Tolu Ogunlesi
Communications and External Relations Department (PCER); 
media@afdb.org

About the African Development Bank Group: 
The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

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