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SA rejects US claims on ’deteriorating’ human rights in the country

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has rejected the United States’ Human Rights Report, calling it “inaccurate” and “deeply flawed”.

The report published by the United States Department of State on Tuesday claims that South Africa’s human rights situation has significantly worsened over the past year. 

It noted concerns regarding the signing of the Expropriation Bill, which was described as a troubling step toward land expropriation affecting White Afrikaners and further abuses against racial minorities in the country. The report criticises the South African government for its alleged mistreatment of Afrikaner farmers, highlighting significant human rights issues. It claims it has credible reports of arbitrary or unlawful killings, arbitrary arrests or detentions, and the repression of racial minorities.

However, DIRCO expressed its deep “disappointment” with the recent human rights report on South Africa published by the State Department.

“We find the report to be an inaccurate and deeply flawed account that fails to reflect the reality of our constitutional democracy,” the statement read. 

According to the department, the report’s reliance on context-free information and unreliable accounts is very concerning.

“It cites an incident involving the deaths of farm workers and, despite the matter being actively adjudicated by our independent judiciary, misleadingly presents it as an extrajudicial killing. This is not only premature but a fundamental distortion of the facts, as the individuals are formally arraigned before a court of law. 

“Similarly, incidents of police using force are mentioned without acknowledging the robust processes in place, where institutions designed to protect our democracy are actively investigating whether due process was followed and if such force was warranted,” the department added. 

The department has stressed that South Africa operates a transparent system where information is freely available from our law enforcement agencies and Chapter 9 institutions, which are constitutionally mandated to protect and advance human rights. 

“It is ironic that a report from a nation that has exited by the UN Human Rights Council and therefore, no longer sees itself accountable in a multilateral peer review system would seek to produce one-sided fact-free reports without any due process or engagement. 

“This is particularly striking given the significant and documented concerns about human rights within the United States, including the treatment of refugees and breaches in due process by its own agencies, such as ICE [United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement].” 

In stark contrast to the report, DIRCO noted the recent assessment from the United Nations Human Rights Office in Geneva. 

This is after the UN has described South Africa’s Land Expropriation Act, signed into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa, as a “critical step in addressing the country’s racially imbalanced land ownership”.

“This recognition from the UN’s primary human rights body underscores the integrity of our legislative processes aimed at rectifying historical injustices in a constitutional and human-rights-based manner.” 

To provide a complete and accurate picture, the department said it has compiled a set of documents, which will be released for public perusal during the week.

The department believes that a thorough review of reports from the South African Human Rights Commission and the UN Human Rights Council, along with articles from reputable news agencies like AFP, helps to correct any distortions and accurately reflect South Africa’s steadfast commitment to human rights.

“We remain open to addressing these distortions through the diplomatic channels.” 

Meanwhile, the department published information it believed was distorted by the United States report.

•    False data distorts complex picture of South Africa: https://factcheck.afp.com/doc.afp.com.36ZD7HY

•    Tears and outrage in South Africa as accused in pig farm murder walks free: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c24z9q10lm5o 

•    Presidential Response on July unrests: https://www.gov.za/news/speeches/president-cyril-ramaphosa-statement-south-african-human-rights-commission. – SAnews.gov.za

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Le traité sur les plastiques est une attaque directe contre le développement de l’Afrique – Les nations africaines doivent s’y opposer

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


La deuxième partie de la cinquième session du Comité intergouvernemental de négociation du traité sur les plastiques se tient actuellement à Genève, en Suisse, où plus de 170 pays se réunissent pour discuter de la mise en œuvre d’un instrument juridiquement contraignant sur la pollution plastique. S’il est signé, ce traité réduirait les niveaux de production de plastiques à usage unique, ce qui causerait des dommages économiques considérables aux pays producteurs d’hydrocarbures, en particulier ceux d’Afrique.

La Chambre africaine de l’énergie (AEC) s’oppose fermement au projet de traité sur les plastiques. Si les intentions qui sous-tendent un tel traité peuvent découler de préoccupations environnementales dans les pays développés, sa mise en œuvre aurait des conséquences désastreuses pour l’industrie pétrochimique en Afrique. Ce traité freinerait considérablement la croissance de l’industrie pétrolière et gazière africaine, entraînant une augmentation de la précarité énergétique, un ralentissement de l’activité manufacturière, un blocage de l’industrialisation et une baisse des investissements essentiels dans le secteur chimique.

Les pays africains, en particulier le Gabon, le Ghana, l’Angola et le Sénégal, seraient les plus touchés par cet impact. Ces nations sont confrontées depuis longtemps à des défis économiques, mais elles possèdent d’importants gisements de pétrole et de gaz. Le Gabon détient 2 milliards de barils de pétrole et 1,2 billion de pieds cubes (tcf) de gaz ; le Ghana possède 1,1 milliard de barils de pétrole et 2,1 tcf de gaz ; le Sénégal 1 milliard de barils de pétrole et 120 tcf de gaz ; tandis que l’Angola possède 9 milliards de barils de pétrole et 11 tcf de gaz.

Ces ressources promettent de redresser l’économie africaine, principalement grâce aux opportunités offertes par la production pétrochimique. L’essor de l’industrie pétrochimique en Afrique s’accompagne d’une vague d’avantages économiques, allant des opportunités d’emploi à l’introduction de matériaux essentiels et de chaînes d’approvisionnement, en passant par le commerce mondial et l’innovation. La pétrochimie sera un catalyseur du développement dans des secteurs stratégiques tels que la santé, l’agriculture et les transports. Confrontée à une crise énergétique et alimentaire, l’Afrique a besoin de la pétrochimie pour améliorer les conditions de vie et garantir une croissance inclusive.

En s’opposant au traité sur les plastiques, les pays africains peuvent protéger leur chemin vers la sécurité énergétique, la croissance industrielle et la prospérité économique. Le Gabon, par exemple, fait des progrès significatifs vers la réduction de la pauvreté énergétique grâce à des investissements dans des projets pétroliers et gaziers. Avec un objectif de 220 000 barils par jour (bpj), le pays cherche à diversifier son économie en développant la pétrochimie et le traitement du GNL et du GPL. Parmi les projets majeurs figurent le terminal GNL de Cap Lopez, d’un coût de 2 milliards de dollars, qui sera mis en service en 2026, l’usine de GPL de Batanga et la raffinerie SOGARA, qui vise une production de 1,5 million de tonnes d’ici 2030.

Le traité sur les plastiques perturberait cette croissance et aurait un impact sur les efforts du Gabon pour renforcer son économie. Les projets pétroliers et gaziers en cours au Sénégal seraient également compromis par le traité. Après le démarrage des opérations du projet Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) en 2025 et du champ pétrolier de Sangomar en 2024, le Sénégal poursuit ses efforts pour améliorer la sécurité énergétique nationale, faciliter le développement de nouvelles industries et stimuler le développement économique. Le projet GTA a une capacité de 2,3 millions de tonnes par an (mtpa), qui sera portée à 5 mtpa lors des phases suivantes. Sedin Engineering prévoit de construire une raffinerie et une usine pétrochimique dans le pays afin de tirer parti des ressources offshore pour produire des plastiques et des produits chimiques à forte valeur ajoutée. Le traité sur les plastiques limiterait ces activités.

Par ailleurs, l’ambitieux projet de parc pétrochimique du Ghana serait gravement affecté, ce qui compromettrait le développement industriel du pays. Le pays prévoit de développer un pôle pétrolier de 12 milliards de dollars à Jomoro qui, une fois toutes les phases achevées, comprendra trois raffineries de 300 000 bpj, cinq usines pétrochimiques, des installations de stockage et des infrastructures portuaires. Le traité sur les plastiques aurait un impact sur ce projet, qui pourrait améliorer considérablement la sécurité énergétique et alimentaire dans toute la région de l’Afrique de l’Ouest. L’Angola, deuxième producteur de pétrole d’Afrique subsaharienne, prévoit d’accroître sa production pétrochimique dans le cadre de ses efforts pour diversifier son économie dépendante du pétrole. Dans le cadre du Plan directeur pour le gaz, qui vise à attirer 30 milliards de dollars d’investissements et à générer plus de 150 milliards de dollars de retombées économiques grâce au secteur du gaz naturel, l’Angola entend renforcer sa production pétrochimique et d’engrais, soutenant ainsi la création de nouvelles industries. Le traité sur les plastiques pourrait entraîner une baisse spectaculaire de la demande de pétrole, de gaz et de plastique, ce qui aurait un impact sur les progrès de l’Angola en matière de diversification et de croissance économique.

La Tanzanie, qui possède plus de 57 tcf de réserves de gaz, poursuit également plusieurs projets pétrochimiques et gaziers. Grâce au développement du projet Tanzania LNG, d’un montant de 42 milliards de dollars, le pays cherche à accélérer son industrialisation et à se positionner comme une plaque tournante mondiale pour le pétrole, le gaz et les produits dérivés. Des projets tels que le complexe Mbolea and Petrochemicals Company Kilwa en Tanzanie, qui vise une capacité de 3,8 millions de tonnes par an, sont essentiels à la réalisation de cet objectif. Une fois achevée, l’usine sera la plus grande usine de fabrication d’engrais en Afrique, produisant une variété de produits pétrochimiques, notamment de l’urée et de l’ammoniac. Le complexe devrait entrer en service commercial en 2028, mais si le traité sur les plastiques est signé, cela pourrait avoir un impact significatif sur la capacité du projet à obtenir un financement et à être mené à bien.

« L’AEC appelle les pays africains, en particulier le Gabon, le Ghana, l’Angola et le Sénégal, à rejeter ce traité. Nous exhortons ces pays à donner la priorité à leurs besoins énergétiques et industriels plutôt qu’à des programmes environnementaux externes qui ne correspondent pas aux priorités de développement de l’Afrique. Soutenir ce traité reviendrait à se tirer une balle dans le pied, ce qui n’a aucun sens pour l’avenir de l’Afrique », a déclaré NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de l’AEC.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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La sécurité énergétique de l’Afrique en jeu alors que l’exploration du bassin Orange par Shell fait l’objet d’une bataille judiciaire

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le projet de Shell visant à explorer des gisements de pétrole et de gaz dans le bassin Orange en Afrique du Sud, qui a récemment obtenu l’autorisation environnementale de forer jusqu’à cinq puits en eaux profondes, fait désormais l’objet d’un recours devant les tribunaux de la part de groupes environnementaux et de communautés côtières. Si les contestations judiciaires font partie intégrante d’une gouvernance démocratique, il existe un large consensus sur la nécessité urgente de rationaliser les procédures d’autorisation en Afrique du Sud afin d’éviter les retards et les obstacles inutiles, en particulier ceux souvent causés par des ONG environnementales financées par des pays occidentaux. Accélérer l’approbation des projets énergétiques tout en mettant en place des mesures de protection responsables permettra de libérer le vaste potentiel de ressources du pays sans compromettre son patrimoine naturel.

Le paysage énergétique de l’Afrique du Sud est à la croisée des chemins. Le pays importe environ 70 % de sa consommation de pétrole, ce qui expose son économie à la volatilité des marchés mondiaux et aux chocs des prix. L’exploration offshore dans le bassin Orange offre une voie pragmatique pour renforcer la sécurité énergétique et réduire la dépendance vis-à-vis des importations coûteuses. Le projet de Shell, situé dans le bloc ultra-profond du Cap Nord, près de la majeure découverte de Venus en Namibie, qui devrait produire plus de 100 000 barils par jour, pourrait transformer l’Afrique du Sud et l’ensemble de la région de la Communauté de développement de l’Afrique australe (SADC).

Répondre aux préoccupations environnementales grâce à des mesures de protection rigoureuses

Les groupes environnementaux ont exprimé leurs inquiétudes quant aux impacts potentiels des forages et des études sismiques sur la vie marine. Cependant, l’autorisation accordée à Shell fait suite à une évaluation complète de l’impact environnemental et social intégrant des mesures de protection rigoureuses. Les études sismiques modernes utilisent des ondes sonores à basse fréquence soigneusement contrôlées, conçues pour minimiser les perturbations, et s’appuient sur des décennies de recherche et plus de 30 millions de dollars investis chaque année dans des technologies de surveillance et d’atténuation.

Plus de 35 études sismiques ont été menées au large des côtes sud-africaines au cours de la dernière décennie sans qu’aucun dommage significatif n’ait été constaté sur les écosystèmes marins. L’industrie pétrolière et gazière continue d’investir dans des innovations telles que la surveillance acoustique passive et les procédures de montée en phase afin de protéger les mammifères marins.

Shell prévoit de forer entre 3 500 et 3 200 mètres sous le niveau de la mer, ce qui en fera l’un des puits offshore les plus profonds au monde et le plus profond jamais tenté en Afrique du Sud. La société dispose de plans d’urgence solides pour faire face rapidement à des incidents rares tels que des éruptions, soulignant son engagement en faveur d’une exploration sûre et responsable dans les environnements en eaux ultra-profondes.

Appel urgent à une réforme judiciaire et réglementaire

En tant que porte-parole du secteur énergétique africain, la Chambre africaine de l’énergie (AEC) demande instamment une réforme immédiate de la législation en matière de litiges et d’exploration pétrolière afin d’empêcher les recours judiciaires perturbateurs et sans fondement intentés par des ONG financées par des fonds étrangers, notamment Greenpeace, Just Stop Oil, Extinction Rebellion, The Green Connection et Natural Justice. Ces litiges menacent de mettre brusquement un terme à des projets vitaux, à des études sismiques et à des campagnes de forage, ce qui saperait la confiance des investisseurs et retarderait les progrès énergétiques de l’Afrique.

« La mise en œuvre de ces réformes permettra de protéger les infrastructures et les projets énergétiques sud-africains contre des obstacles juridiques injustifiés et d’établir un environnement réglementaire stable, essentiel pour les investissements à long terme. Cette stabilité est essentielle pour positionner l’Afrique comme une destination privilégiée pour les investissements dans le pétrole et le gaz et pour accélérer la croissance économique régionale », déclare NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie.

Faire progresser la frontière énergétique offshore de l’Afrique

L’Afrique du Sud s’inscrit dans une tendance africaine plus large d’expansion du développement de l’énergie offshore. Des entreprises telles que TotalEnergies, Africa Oil Corp et Eco Atlantic intensifient leurs activités d’exploration, encouragées par des réformes réglementaires progressistes qui améliorent les conditions d’investissement. La récente loi sur le développement des ressources pétrolières en amont (Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Act) représente une étape importante dans l’accélération de l’exploration et de la production tout en préservant l’environnement.

Shell et d’autres entreprises énergétiques qui forent en Afrique du Sud vont stimuler la production énergétique nationale, créer des emplois et stimuler la croissance économique dans toute la région de la SADC. L’exploitation des ressources pétrolières et gazières de l’Afrique offre des avantages considérables : développement des compétences, génération de recettes publiques pour les programmes sociaux et la diversification économique, amélioration des infrastructures et sortie de la pauvreté énergétique pour de nombreuses communautés.

Équilibrer les besoins énergétiques pour l’avenir de l’Afrique

Si les énergies renouvelables sont nécessaires à la transition énergétique à long terme de l’Afrique, les combustibles fossiles restent aujourd’hui indispensables pour répondre à la demande croissante et alimenter la croissance économique. Un avenir énergétique juste et pragmatique reconnaît la nécessité de développer de manière responsable toutes les ressources disponibles.

Le projet Orange Basin de Shell incarne cette vision. Il constitue une opportunité de renforcer l’indépendance énergétique de l’Afrique du Sud, de stimuler la croissance économique et d’apporter des avantages tangibles aux communautés. L’AEC encourage toutes les parties prenantes – gouvernements, industrie et société civile – à travailler ensemble pour garantir que l’exploration se déroule en toute sécurité, de manière transparente et dans l’intérêt de tous les Africains.

Le recours devant les tribunaux souligne l’importance d’un dialogue ouvert et d’une procédure régulière, mais il ne doit pas occulter la nécessité urgente de faire avancer les projets de développement énergétique susceptibles de transformer le continent. L’Afrique mérite d’exploiter ses ressources au profit de ses populations, et des projets tels que l’exploration du bassin Orange par Shell sont essentiels pour cet avenir.

« L’Afrique est à l’aube d’une révolution énergétique qui peut stimuler une croissance durable et sortir des millions de personnes de la pauvreté. Il existe un large consensus sur la nécessité urgente de rationaliser le système d’octroi de permis en Afrique du Sud et de réformer le système judiciaire afin d’éviter les retards injustifiés causés par des groupes environnementaux financés par des fonds étrangers, tout en continuant à protéger l’environnement. Nous exhortons toutes les parties prenantes à se mobiliser pour soutenir Shell et les autres sociétés énergétiques qui forent en Afrique du Sud, ce qui permettra d’augmenter l’approvisionnement énergétique national, de créer des emplois et de stimuler la croissance économique dans toute la région de la SADC », déclare Ayuk.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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The Treaty on Plastics is a Direct Attack on African Development – African Nations Must Oppose It

Source: APO


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The second part of the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on the Treaty on Plastics is currently being held in Geneva, Switzerland, with over 170 nations meeting to discuss the implementation of a legally-binding instrument on plastic pollution. If signed, the treaty would cut the production levels of single-use plastics, posing significant economic damages to hydrocarbon-producing countries – particularly those in Africa.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) strongly opposes the proposed Treaty on Plastics. While the intentions behind such a treaty may stem from environmental concerns in the developed world, its implementation would devastate the petrochemical industry in Africa. This treaty would effectively stifle the growth of Africa’s oil and gas industry, leading to increased energy poverty, hindered manufacturing, stalled industrialization and a decline in vital investments for the chemicals sector.

African countries, particularly Gabon, Ghana, Angola and Senegal, would bear the brunt of this impact. These are nations which have long-faced economic challenges, yet they possess significant deposits of oil and gas resources. Gabon holds 2 billion barrels of oil and 1.2 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of gas; Ghana has 1.1 billion barrels of oil and 2.1 tcf of gas; Senegal has 1 billion barrels of oil and 120 tcf of gas; while Angola has 9 billion barrels of oil and 11 tcf of gas.

These resources promise to turn Africa’s economy around, primarily through opportunities in petrochemical production. The rise in petrochemical manufacturing in Africa brings with it a wave of economic benefits – from employment opportunities to the introduction of essential materials and supply chains to global trade and innovation. Petrochemicals will catalyze development across strategic sectors, including healthcare, agriculture and transportation. Faced with both an energy and food crisis, Africa requires petrochemicals to improve livelihoods and ensure inclusive growth.  

By opposing the Treaty on Plastics, African nations can protect their path to energy security, industrial growth and economic prosperity. Gabon, for example, is making significant strides towards alleviating energy poverty through investments in oil and gas projects. Targeting 220,000 barrels per day (bpd), the country seeks to diversify its economy through the expansion of petrochemicals, LNG and LPG processing. Major projects include the $2 billion Cap Lopez LNG terminal – starting in 2026 – the Batanga LPG plant and the SOGARA refinery, which targets 1.5 million tons by 2030.

The Treaty on Plastics would disrupt this growth, impacting Gabon’s efforts to strengthen its economy. Ongoing oil and gas projects in Senegal would also be jeopardized by the Treaty. Following the start of operations at the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) project in 2025 and the Sangomar oilfield in 2024, Senegal is advancing efforts to improve domestic fuel security, facilitate the development of new industries and spur economic development. GTA has a capacity of 2.3 million tons per annum (mtpa), with subsequent phases increasing output to 5 mtpa. Sedin Engineering plans to build a refinery and petrochemical plant in the country leveraging offshore resources to produce high-value plastics and chemicals. The Treaty on Plastics would restrict this.

Meanwhile, Ghana’s ambitious petrochemical park would suffer significantly, undermining the country’s industrial development. The country plans to develop a $12 billion petroleum hub in Jomoro, which, following the completion of all phases, will incorporate three 300,000 bpd refineries, five petrochemical plants, storage facilities and port infrastructure. The Treaty on Plastics would impact this project, which has the potential to drastically improve energy and food security across the West African region. Angola – sub-Saharan Africa’s second biggest oil producer – plans to enhance petrochemical production under efforts to diversify the oil-reliant economy. Under the Gas Master Plan – aimed at attracting $30 billion in investment and generating over $150 billion in economic benefits through the natural gas sector – Angola aims to bolster petrochemical and fertilizer production, thereby supporting the creation of new industries. The Treaty on Plastic could see a dramatic decline in oil, gas and plastic demand, impacting Angola’s progress to diversify and grow its economy.

Tanzania – home to upwards of 57 tcf of gas reserves – is also pursuing several petrochemical and natural gas projects. Through the development of the $42 billion Tanzania LNG project, the country seeks to accelerate industrialization, positioning itself as a global hub for oil, gas and associate by-products. Projects such as the Tanzania Mbolea and Petrochemicals Company Kilwa Complex – a proposed project that targets a capacity of 3.8 mtpa – are central to this goal. Once completed, the plant will be the largest fertilizer-manufacturing factory in Africa producing a variety of petrochemical products, including urea and ammonia. The complex is expected to commence commercial operations in 2028, but if the Treaty on Plastics is signed, it could significantly impact the project’s ability to secure financing and reach completion.

“The AEC calls on African nations, specifically Gabon, Ghana, Angola, and Senegal, to reject support for this treaty. We urge these countries to prioritize their energy and industrial needs over external environmental agendas that do not align with Africa’s developmental priorities. Supporting this treaty would amount to shooting yourselves in the foot, making no sense for Africa’s future,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Africa’s Energy Security on the Line as Shell’s Orange Basin Exploration Faces Court Battle

Source: APO

Shell’s plans to explore for oil and gas in South Africa’s Orange Basin, recently granted environmental authorization to drill up to five deepwater wells, now faces a court appeal from environmental groups and coastal communities. While legal challenges are a natural part of democratic governance, there is broad consensus on the urgent need to streamline South Africa’s permitting processes to prevent unnecessary delays and roadblocks – especially those often driven by Western-funded environmental NGOs. Expediting energy project approvals with responsible safeguards will help unlock the country’s vast resource potential without compromising natural heritage.

South Africa’s energy landscape is at a crossroads. The country imports roughly 70% of its oil consumption, exposing its economy to volatile global markets and price shocks. Offshore exploration in the Orange Basin offers a pragmatic path to strengthen energy security and reduce reliance on expensive imports. Shell’s project, located in the Northern Cape Ultra Deep Block near Namibia’s major Venus discovery – which is expected to produce over 100,000 barrels per day – could be transformative for South Africa and the wider Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.

Addressing Environmental Concerns with Rigorous Safeguards

Environmental groups have raised concerns about the potential impacts of drilling and seismic surveys on marine life. However, Shell’s authorization followed a comprehensive Environmental and Social Impact Assessment incorporating rigorous safeguards. Modern seismic surveys utilize carefully controlled low-frequency sound waves designed to minimize disturbance, supported by decades of research and over $30 million annually invested in monitoring and mitigation technologies.

More than 35 seismic surveys have been conducted offshore South Africa over the past decade with no recorded significant harm to marine ecosystems. The oil and gas industry continues to invest in innovations like passive acoustic monitoring and phase ramp-up procedures to protect marine mammals.

Shell plans to drill between 3,500 and 3,200 meters below sea level, making it among deepest offshore wells globally and the deepest ever attempted in South Africa. The company robust contingency plans to swiftly address rare incidents like blowouts, underscoring its commitment to safe, responsible exploration in ultra-deepwater environments.

Urgent Call for Litigation and Regulatory Reform

As the voice of the African energy sector, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) strongly calls for immediate reform of litigation and upstream petroleum legislation to prevent disruptive, meritless legal challenges by foreign-funded NGOs including Greenpeace, Just Stop Oil, Extinction Rebellion, the Green Connection and Natural Justice. Such litigation threatens to halt vital projects, seismic surveys and drilling campaigns abruptly, undermining investor confidence and delaying Africa’s energy progress.

“Implementing these reforms will safeguard South African infrastructure and energy projects from unjustified legal roadblocks, establishing a stable regulatory environment critical for long-term investment. This stability is essential for positioning Africa as a preferred destination for oil and gas investment and for accelerating regional economic growth,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

Advancing Africa’s Offshore Energy Frontier

South Africa is part of a wider African trend toward expanding offshore energy development. Companies such as TotalEnergies, Africa Oil Corp and Eco Atlantic are increasing their exploration activities, encouraged by progressive regulatory reforms improving investment conditions. The recent Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Act represents an important step in fast-tracking exploration and production while balancing environmental protection.

Shell and other energy companies drilling in South Africa will boost domestic energy production, create jobs and stimulate economic growth across the SADC region. Unlocking Africa’s oil and gas resources delivers far-reaching benefits – developing skills, generating government revenues for social programs and economic diversification, improving infrastructure and providing pathways out of energy poverty for many communities.

Balancing Energy Needs for Africa’s Future

While renewables are necessary for Africa’s long-term energy transition, fossil fuels remain indispensable today for meeting growing demand and powering economic growth. A just and pragmatic energy future recognizes the need to responsibly develop all available resources.

Shell’s Orange Basin project embodies this vision. It is an opportunity to bolster South Africa’s energy independence, stimulate economic growth and deliver tangible benefits to communities. The AEC encourages all stakeholders – government, industry and civil society – to work together to ensure exploration proceeds safely, transparently and in the interest of all Africans.

The court appeal underscores the importance of open dialogue and due process, but it should not overshadow the urgent need to advance energy development projects that can transform the continent. Africa deserves to harness its resources for the benefit of its people, and projects like Shell’s Orange Basin exploration are a vital part of that future.

“Africa stands at the threshold of an energy revolution that can drive sustainable growth and lift millions out of poverty. There is widespread agreement on the urgent need to streamline South Africa’s permitting system and enact litigation reforms to prevent unwarranted delays from foreign-funded environmental groups, while still protecting the environment. We urge all stakeholders to come together to support Shell and other energy companies drilling in South Africa, which will increase domestic energy supply, create employment and drive economic growth throughout the SADC region,” states Ayuk.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Clearing the Path for Global Investment in African Energy: Key Advisors Join Cape Town Energy Event in September

Source: APO


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African Energy Week (AEW) 2025: Invest in African Energies is set to welcome leading voices from some of the most influential advisory and market intelligence firms supporting Africa’s energy transformation. With a sharpened focus on facilitating investment and de-risking entry into Africa’s oil, gas and energy sectors, this group of speakers reflects growing demand for trusted insight, financial strategy and legal clarity as the continent positions itself for large-scale energy development.

Representing Rystad Energy, Bimbola Kolawole, Vice President and Head of Commercial, Africa, brings the perspective of one of the world’s leading independent research and energy intelligence firms. With Rystad’s data-driven insights playing a central role in shaping investor and operator decision-making, the company’s analysis of African upstream and gas markets has become essential to understanding resource potential and project viability. At AEW, Kolawole will speak to how real-time intelligence and market modeling can help both African stakeholders and global investors identify actionable opportunities and build bankable projects.

Joining the conversation is Fiyinfolu Okedare, Director of Consulting at Forvis Mazars, a global advisory group with deep expertise in corporate structuring, due diligence and energy sector transactions. Forvis Mazars has emerged as a key partner for companies navigating Africa’s diverse regulatory environments and planning long-term investments. Okedare will contribute strategic insights into how advisory support can unlock financial close, improve compliance and align investor expectations with project realities, particularly in complex or emerging markets.

Also speaking is Onyeka Cindy Ojogbo, Deputy Managing Partner at CLG, one of Africa’s foremost legal and regulatory advisors focused on energy. CLG has played a pivotal role in shaping upstream policy, cross-border energy frameworks and legal reforms across the continent. At AEW, Ojogbo will share how legal innovation, contract structuring and policy advocacy are enabling energy investments to move from exploration to development at a faster, more secure pace.

Africa’s energy sector is experiencing a structural shift, marked by increasing domestic participation, shifting capital flows and growing interest in integrated oil and gas development, along with gas-to-power and renewable diversification. As global capital becomes more cautious and competitive, African markets must sharpen their value proposition. Transparent licensing rounds, fiscal stability, ESG alignment and robust project preparation have become non-negotiables for attracting long-term international investors. In this environment, intelligence and advisory firms serve as critical enablers – translating opportunity into action and reducing uncertainty across every stage of the value chain.

“Africa is open for investment, but success depends on transparency, trusted partners and data-backed strategies,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “Rystad, Forvis Mazars and CLG are helping to build that foundation. They are not just observers – they are enablers of deals, progress, and long-term impact.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

About AEW: Invest in African Energies:
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

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Technip Energies Joins MSGBC 2025 as Gold Sponsor Amid Industrial Drive

Source: APO


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Energy project developer Technip Energies has confirmed its participation as a Gold Sponsor at the upcoming MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference and exhibition, taking place from December 9-10 in Dakar. Held under the theme Energy, Petroleum and Mining in Africa: Synergy for Inclusive Economic Development, the event is organized with the support of Senegal’s Ministry of Energy, Petroleum and Mines, Petrosen, COS-Petrogaz and the African Energy Chamber. 

With over 100 projects completed across the continent, Technip Energies continues to play a leading role in advancing energy infrastructure and local development in Mauritania, Senegal and Guinea-Conakry. The company’s sponsorship at MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 underscores its long-standing commitment to the MSGBC region. 

Explore opportunities, foster partnerships and stay at the forefront of the MSGBC region’s oil, gas and power sector. Visit www.MSGBCOilGasandPower.com to secure your participation at the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

In June 2025, Technip Energies achieved commercial operations for the floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel deployed at the bp-operated Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) (https://apo-opa.co/4lnxBR6) gas project offshore Mauritania and Senegal. The FPSO is equipped with eight processing and production modules and is designed to accommodate 140 personnel and process up to 500 million standard cubic feet of gas per day, enabling the production of 2.3 million tons of LNG annually during Phase 1 of the project. 

First cargo (https://apo-opa.co/4fyVKCZ) for the GTA project was loaded for export in April 2025, marking Mauritania and Senegal’s debut as LNG exporting nations. The first phase of the project is on track to produce about 2.3 million tons per year of LNG, with a portion allocated to domestic markets in both countries. Partners are advancing planning for Phase 2 of the GTA development (https://apo-opa.co/3Ut7n4L) – set for 2025-2027 – which will explore a gravity-based structure concept, aiming to expand capacity to between 2.5 and 3 million tons per annum. 

In Guinea-Conakry, Technip Energies is supporting the country’s efforts to build downstream capacity in the mining sector. The company was recently awarded a front-end engineering design contract for an alumina refinery (https://apo-opa.co/412NrJG), which will process Guinea-Conakry’s bauxite reserves into alumina for electric vehicle battery production and energy storage technologies. 

Meanwhile, the company is also leading the ACATBS modernization project at the SAR refinery in Senegal, a critical national infrastructure upgrade aimed at increasing processing capacity, enhancing fuel security and supporting local industrialization. The project incorporates strong local content initiatives, including the training and deployment of national professionals across engineering and commissioning phases. 

Operating under a strategy that emphasized gas monetization, industrial development and local workforce integration, Technip Energies is a key partner to public institutions across the MSGBC region. The company’s participation at MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 reflects its role in delivering transformational projects that contribute to energy sovereignty and inclusive economic growth. 

“Technip Energies’ continued investment in transformation projects across the MSGBC region highlights the critical role of engineering excellence and local content in unlocking the basin’s full energy potential. Their presence reinforces a mission to foster cross-border collaboration and sustainable development throughout West Africa,” states Sandra Jeque, Project Director, Energy Capital & Power. 

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

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Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2025 Deals & Showcases Track to Explore International Oil Company (IOC) Procurement, Best Practices

Source: APO


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This year’s Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference – scheduled for September 3-4 in Luanda – will feature the first-ever Deals & Showcases Track as part of the main conference agenda. Taking place alongside the Strategic and Technical Tracks, this exclusive program feature encompasses a series of sessions that will explore the procurement process of some of the country’s biggest operators. The track will also feature presentations that demonstrate youth-led innovation in Angolan oil and gas. With just one month to go until the event, now is the time to secure your place and be part of the multi-track program.  

The Deals & Showcases Track is geared towards both Angolan youth as well as the country’s service providers, entrepreneurs and innovators. Led by major players, the track will introduce key solutions across the value chain, with presentations offering insight into innovative methods to drive exploration, production and broader industry development in Angola.  

A masterclass on Understanding IOC Procurement: Best Practices for Service Companies will take place during the event. The session will navigate the procurement processes of international companies active in Angola, providing an in-depth look at how companies structure their procurement strategies, what they prioritize in supplier selection and how service providers can optimize their approach to meet industry expectations. The session will be led by Adao Costa, Procurement Manager at ExxonMobil Angola.  

A session powered by Angola’s national oil company Sonangol – titled SonaJovem Showcase – will see entrepreneurs and innovators take the stage to present their business solutions to a panel of seasoned investors and executives. With a few minutes to make their case, Angola’s bright minds will showcase the potential of their technology, business model or energy solution. Additionally, a closed-door Carbon Market Session will also take place during this track, followed by a showcase led by energy major TotalEnergies.  

Meanwhile, a session on Empowering Local: Forex Solutions for Sustainable Growth in Angola’s Oil & Gas Sector will examine the evolving financial landscape in Angola and the impact on local service providers. The session will feature insights from experts and industry leaders on how to overcome hurdles in securing foreign currency for international payments and how to position local businesses for growth in a US-dollar dominated global market.  

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

About AOG:
AOG is the largest oil and gas event in Angola. Taking place with the full support of the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas; the National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency (ANPG); the Petroleum Derivatives Regulatory Institute (IRDP); national oil company Sonangol; and the African Energy Chamber; the event is a platform to sign deals and advance Angola’s oil and gas industry. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

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Deputy President Mashatile to address the National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM) Show 2025, Gqeberha, Eastern Cape Province

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Thursday, 14 August 2025 , attend and deliver a keynote address at the National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufactures (NAACAM) Show 2025, a premier forum, which showcases the capabilities of the domestic automotive component manufacturing sector. 

Hosted in partnership with the Automotive Industry Development Centre in the Eastern Cape (AIDC-EC), the two-day NAACAM Show 2025, will take place at the Boardwalk Hotel, Casino and Convention Centre, Summerstrand, Gqeberha, in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape Province . 

The event brings together a diverse group of automotive component manufacturers, sector stakeholders, as well as service providers, with the aim of fostering collaboration, networking and galvanising the industry around common ambition of achieving the overall strategic objectives of the South African Automotive Masterplan 2035.  The Masterplan seeks to facilitate localization, trade, and investment linkages in the sector; support transformation; enable skills and technology partnerships; and facilitate outcomes-based dialogue.  

In this regard, government considers NAACAM, which represents around 150 locally owned and multinational manufacturing brands supplying into the local OEM value chains, export markets, and the aftermarket. It is also the leading voice of South Africa’s automotive component industry, providing representation, leadership, and strategic engagement for its members. NAACAM also includes associate members who offer specialised services such as logistics, consulting, and financial support to strengthen the local manufacturing ecosystem.

Deputy President Mashatile will highlight the most critical and strategic globally integrated importance of the automotive manufacturing sector, which contributes about 5.2% to the GDP and accounts for 22.6% of manufacturing output in South Africa. This export-oriented industry, remains globally competitive, and it plays a vital role in regional and national industrial development. 

Furthermore, the automotive sector employs approximately 115 000 people in total, and the component sector is where the largest share of these employees is situated, employing over 80 000 people.

Deputy President Mashatile will be accompanied by the Minister of Small Business Development, Ms Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Parks Tau, Premier of the Eastern Cape Province, Mr Oscar Mabuyane, and the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s Executive Mayor, Cllr Babalwa Lobishe, as well as senior government officials.   

Date: Thursday 14 August 2025
Time: 08h30 
Venue: The Boardwalk Hotel, Casino And Convention Centre, Beach Rd, Summerstrand, Gqeberha

For more information and accreditation please contact Sam Matome Bopape on 082 318 5251.

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

Issued by: The Presidedcy
Pretoria

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Free access to national parks

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

The South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that 21 national parks will grant free access to visitors in September for a period of a week.

SANParks uses this time to cultivate a sense of pride in South Africa’s natural, cultural and historical heritage, as protected and preserved by the national parks system.

Free access to the national parks at this time does not include free access to accommodation facilities and other tourist activities.

On 21 September 2025, SANParks will host a celebratory event at Kruger National Park to kickstart the 20th annual SA National Parks Week, which will be held from 22 – 26 September and extended to 27 and 28 September at selected national parks. 

During this period, free access is granted to most of the 21 national parks under the management of SANParks.

National Parks Week has seen an influx of day visitors in all participating parks since its inception in 2006. 

“SA National Parks Week has proved to be a successful campaign that provides education and awareness about South Africa’s inclusive approach to conservation. Whilst offering an opportunity to experience South Africa’s rich natural and cultural heritage, attention is also drawn to the sustainable development practices made possible through partnerships with key role players like communities living adjacent to national parks, business, scientists and tourists,” SANParks said on Tuesday.

For respective dates on when different parks will be observing SA National Parks Week and allowing free access, please visit: https://www.sanparks.org/events/2025-south-african[1]national-parks-week-dates. –SAnews.gov.za