Posts

Posted on

Sixth South Africa Investment Conference Drives Economic Growth and Job Creation

Source: Government of South Africa

Sixth South Africa Investment Conference Drives Economic Growth and Job Creation

By William Baloyi 
When a new factory opens its doors, its impact reaches far beyond the production line. It acts as a spark for an economic chain reaction that breathes life into the surrounding community. What starts as a single investment quickly creates a wave of opportunities, enabling households to meet their basic needs and aspire to a better future.

As wages flow into the community, this new income is spent at local spaza shops, paid to taxi operators, and reinvested in small businesses, the backbone of many neighbourhoods. Local retailers, seeing a surge in demand, often hire more staff and expand their offerings to serve growing needs.

These ripple effects extend even further. Suppliers increase production, logistics companies move more goods, and the momentum builds. When multiplied across towns, cities, and provinces, such investments weave together into a powerful national story of growth, job creation, and social development.

Every new investment whether a manufacturing plant, a digital hub, or a transport corridor adds a vital spark to our economy. This vision lies at the heart of government’s investment drive and took centre stage at the successful conclusion of the sixth South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC) in Johannesburg last month.

The event marked a significant milestone, bringing together more than 1000 delegates from over 50 countries to engage directly with South Africa’s investment opportunities. The strong turnout from both domestic and international investors served as a decisive vote of confidence in the country’s potential, reaffirming South Africa’s appeal as a compelling destination for business and investment.

At the core of this momentum was the announcement of nearly R900 billion in new investment commitments. These span 81 projects across all nine provinces and represent a transformative step forward in further uplifting our economy. Of this amount, R415 billion is confirmed fixed investment, with a further R474.8 billion allocated towards direct fixed investment.

Sourced from 22 global markets, these commitments are projected to create more than 230,000 permanent jobs. Each job supports families, boosts local consumption, and strengthens the broader economic ecosystem. In this way, investment becomes far more than a financial transaction, it serves as a catalyst for inclusive growth and meaningful social progress.

The expansion of factories, manufacturing capacity, and service industries is essential to sustaining our nation’s employment cycles. Since 2018, when President Cyril Ramaphosa launched the country’s investment drive, approximately R1.56 trillion in investment commitments have been mobilised, exceeding the original target by 26%.

Since the SAIC began, a total of 317 investment pledges have been made. Over R628 billion has already flowed into the economy, 137 projects valued at R400 billion have been completed and 84 projects worth R417 billion are currently under construction.

These investments have undoubtedly bolstered resilience in our labour market. Throughout 2025, the country saw a steady recovery in formal employment and a notable rise in worker earnings. By the fourth quarter, a net gain of 18,000 jobs was recorded, a clear sign that the foundations for long-term growth are being rebuilt.

The positive sentiment has extended to our equity market, with South Africa, according to the latest Bank of America Global Research Equity Strategist report, emerging as the premier investment destination within the Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa. The country outpaced Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Poland, Türkiye, Hungary, Greece and Qatar to the top spot. The Bank of America attributes our market leadership to a sustained strengthening in dividend yields and highly supportive valuations relative to historical benchmarks.

The outcomes of the sixth SAIC signal more than immediate gains, they mark the formal start of South Africa’s second investment cycle. With an ambitious target of R2 trillion in new pledges over the next five years, the nation is entering a new phase of economic dynamism, driven by greater policy certainty and aggressive structural reforms.

The conference also highlighted South Africa’s competitive advantage in high-growth sectors, including manufacturing, mining beneficiation, digital infrastructure, agriculture, and green industrialisation. These are the industries with the greatest potential to drive sustainable development and job creation. As these investments take root, they will advance key national priorities: creating jobs, reducing poverty, and addressing inequality.

Beyond the numbers, lies a profound social impact. This economic growth enables the state to reinvest in schools, roads, and hospitals, the very foundations that support further progress. Young people gain clear pathways into the economy, communities become more stable, and a sense of shared progress begins to take hold.

South Africa’s investment drive offers a blueprint for strong economic renewal. When investment flows, opportunity follows, and when opportunity grows, so too does the nation. In turn potential at every level of society is unlocked, restoring dignity, strengthening families, and building confidence in a brighter future for all.

*Baloyi is the Deputy Government Spokesperson at the Government Communication and Information System.

 

 

Neo

24 views

Posted on

Chambre africaine de l’énergie : l’Afrique doit « raffiner, encore et encore », alors que les perturbations de l’approvisionnement mondial mettent en évidence la nécessité d’un développement du secteur aval

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le secteur aval africain revient sur le devant de la scène alors que les perturbations de l’approvisionnement mondial provoquées par la guerre du Golfe mettent en évidence la nécessité d’une refonte stratégique des systèmes énergétiques africains. Avec plus de 600 millions de personnes vivant sans accès à l’électricité, 900 millions de personnes vivant sans accès à des solutions de cuisson propre et une demande africaine en pétrole qui devrait atteindre 4,5 millions de barils par jour (bpj) d’ici 2050, les acteurs du secteur réunis lors de l’ARDA Week 2026 ont lancé un appel en faveur de l’expansion des capacités de raffinage, de la réduction de la dépendance aux importations et de la valorisation accrue des ressources en hydrocarbures du continent.

Dans son discours d’ouverture de l’événement, NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie, a réaffirmé la nécessité d’une expansion du secteur aval comme pierre angulaire de la sécurité énergétique et du développement industriel à travers le continent. Il a souligné que l’urgence de mettre en place des systèmes de raffinage et de distribution robustes n’est plus un simple débat politique, mais un impératif économique et social – dont l’Afrique doit prendre en charge la réalisation.

« Une grande question pour l’Afrique est de savoir si nous allons embrasser l’innovation, la croissance et la prospérité, ou si nous allons retomber dans une époque où nous nierons les faits et les besoins. Nous devons produire plus d’énergie. C’est pourquoi nous ne cessons de répéter « forez, forez ». Nous ne devrions jamais nous retenir sur ce point », a-t-il déclaré.

Revenant sur l’évolution du secteur, M. Ayuk a souligné un changement significatif, passant d’un développement mené par des acteurs étrangers à des investissements pilotés par l’Afrique. « Il y a plus de 25 ans, c’étaient principalement les entreprises étrangères qui faisaient le gros du travail. Qui aurait cru que ce seraient des entités telles que Dangote qui transformeraient le continent, et des entrepreneurs africains comme le Sahara Group qui non seulement posséderaient des raffineries, mais seraient aussi les champions de l’accès à l’énergie. »

Cette transition marque un changement structurel plus large dans le paysage énergétique africain, où les entreprises locales mènent de plus en plus le déploiement de capitaux, le développement des infrastructures et l’intégration de la chaîne d’approvisionnement. Malgré ces progrès, M. Ayuk a souligné que l’Afrique devait affronter ses « réalités » de front. La précarité énergétique reste très répandue, et y remédier nécessite des politiques concrètes plutôt que des débats idéologiques. « La précarité énergétique ne peut pas être seulement une idéologie, mais doit se traduire par des actions », a-t-il déclaré, exhortant les parties prenantes à garder à l’esprit l’ampleur du défi.

L’expansion des capacités de raffinage est au cœur de cette transformation. L’appel d’Ayuk à « raffiner, raffiner encore » a souligné l’importance de développer des capacités de traitement locales afin de réduire la dépendance vis-à-vis des carburants importés, de stabiliser l’approvisionnement et de conserver la valeur économique au sein des marchés africains. Le renforcement du raffinage soutient également les efforts d’industrialisation plus larges, en permettant le développement des secteurs pétrochimique, manufacturier et logistique.

Cependant, la concrétisation de cette vision nécessite des environnements politiques favorables. Ayuk a insisté sur la nécessité de cadres réglementaires stables, de régimes fiscaux compétitifs et d’approches axées sur le marché qui encouragent l’investissement. « Nous devons adopter le libre marché, une gouvernance allégée et la responsabilité. Les entreprises doivent disposer des outils nécessaires à leur réussite », a-t-il déclaré. Cela implique notamment de réduire la fiscalité excessive, de rationaliser les processus réglementaires et de garantir aux entrepreneurs africains l’accès au capital.

La collaboration transfrontalière est également apparue comme un thème essentiel. Alors que le commerce intra-africain fait souvent l’objet de discussions, M. Ayuk a souligné les obstacles persistants qui continuent de freiner les progrès. « Les droits de douane et les formalités douanières sont un véritable casse-tête et nous devons y remédier. Nous devons surmonter ces obstacles et construire ensemble », a-t-il déclaré, appelant à une plus grande coordination entre les pays pour faciliter le commerce régional de l’énergie et optimiser l’utilisation des infrastructures.

En outre, M. Ayuk a souligné l’importance de l’indépendance financière au sein du secteur. Pour répondre à la croissance prévue de la demande, l’Afrique a besoin de plus de 100 milliards de dollars d’investissements dans le raffinage. Cela met en évidence une opportunité unique pour les institutions financières étrangères et africaines qui cherchent à mobiliser des capitaux pour des projets à fort impact à travers le continent.

En fin de compte, les propos de M. Ayuk ont renforcé un consensus plus large au sein de l’industrie : l’Afrique doit poursuivre sans complexe le développement énergétique tout au long de la chaîne de valeur. « Nous ne renoncerons jamais à produire du pétrole. Nous raffinerons, forerons et veillerons à ce que nos jeunes à travers le continent aient accès à l’énergie. Nous ne nous excuserons jamais de produire l’énergie dont nous avons besoin », a-t-il déclaré.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

Posted on

Afreximbank and Government of St Kitts and Nevis Sign Hosting Agreement for AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2026)

Source: APO – Report:

.

African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) has announced the signing of the Hosting Agreement with the Government of St Kitts and Nevis for the fifth edition of the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2026).

The signing of the host agreement highlights a shared resolve to deepen Afri-Caribbean partnerships and enhance trade and economic ties. ACTIF2026 will take place from 29–31 July 2026 at the St. Kitts Marriott Beach Resort, Casino & Spa in Basseterre.

Commenting on the signing, Dr George Elombi, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, noted that: “At the fifth edition of ACTIF, we will once again reunite with our fellow Africans across the Atlantic to reflect on our shared development challenges and to recommit to the implementation of strategic programmes that will advance our collective aspiration for self-determination and self-reliance. Through ACTIF2026, we will identify priority projects and programmes and dedicate ourselves to effective execution. This will be the pathway to our shared economic development.”

The Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Dr Terrance M Drew, added: “We are honoured to host the fifth edition of the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum. This agreement signals our strong commitment to strengthening economic ties between Africa and the Caribbean. We are not just a beautiful destination; we are a gateway for investment, a hub for enterprise, and a proud partner in the Renaissance of Africans. ACTIF2026 will serve as a catalyst for trade and investment, creating new opportunities for our people and businesses.

This forum will create lasting pathways that will benefit our citizens, our region, and the entire African continent for generations to come. We look forward to welcoming delegates from global Africa to St Kitts and Nevis.”

Beyond the beauty of the archipelago, attendees at the fifth edition of ACTIF2026 can expect opportunities to participate in panel discussions on regional trade, explore investment prospects, network with key stakeholders, and learn about initiatives aimed at strengthening Africa–Caribbean economic cooperation.

ACTIF2026 will provide a high-level platform for African and Caribbean governments, investors, private sector leaders, development finance institutions, entrepreneurs, and diaspora stakeholders to deliberate and determine the most suitable pathway for Global Africa to continue to grow amid uncertainty.  Convened by Afreximbank, ACTIF has emerged as the premier platform for mobilising capital, forging partnerships, and accelerating economic integration between Africa and the Caribbean.

ACTIF2025 recorded five Caribbean deals totalling USD 291.25 million across three countries, encompassing Trade and Investment Finance, Corporate Finance, Project Preparation, and Export Development.

Since opening its Barbados office two years ago, Afreximbank has approved more than US$700 million in critical financing across the CARICOM region. This includes support for climate adaptation in Saint Lucia, sports infrastructure and tourism development in Barbados, SME financing in the Bahamas, tourism projects in Grenada, and oil and gas initiatives in Suriname, among others.

– on behalf of Afreximbank.

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

Follow us on: 
X: https://apo-opa.co/4tQSybX
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3OlYvyg
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/41wwpDC
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3OrEOoK

About the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF): 
The Africa-Caribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF) is a premier platform that fosters trade, investment, and cultural exchange between Africa and the Caribbean. Held in collaboration with regional bodies such as the Caribbean Community, the African Union and the African Continental Free Trade Area, ACTIF has facilitated dialogue, partnerships, and actionable frameworks that have bolstered commercial and investment ties between the two regions.

ACTIF, initiated and convened by Afreximbank, has rapidly evolved into a premier platform for policy dialogue, business networking, and deal-making, bringing together governments, private sector leaders, investors, and development partners from across Africa and the Caribbean.

Largely catalysed by the first-ever Heads of State and Government Summit of the Caribbean Community and Africa held on 7 September 2021, the AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF) is a key strategic initiative towards institutionalising the engagement between both regions’ private and public sectors to advance trade and investment relations.  

About Afreximbank: 
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2025, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$48.5 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$8.4 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), GCR (A), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-), and. Moody’s (Baa2). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

Posted on

African Energy Chamber: Africa Must ‘Refine, Baby Refine’ as Global Supply Disruptions Expose Need for Downstream Expansion

Source: APO – Report:

.

Africa’s downstream sector is back on the radar as global supply disruptions brought about by the Gulf war highlight a need for a strategic re-thinking of African energy systems. With over 600 million people living without access to electricity, 900 million people living without access to clean cooking solutions and African oil demand set to reach 4.5 million barrels per day (bpd) by 2050, industry stakeholders at ARDA Week 2026 issued a call to expand refining capacity, reduce import dependency and unlock greater value from the continent’s hydrocarbon resources.

Delivering a keynote address at the event, NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber reinforced the need for downstream expansion as a cornerstone of energy security and industrial development across the continent. He emphasized that the urgency to build robust refining and distribution systems is no longer a policy discussion but an economic and social imperative – and one in which Africa must take ownership.

“A big question for Africa is whether we will embrace innovation, growth and prosperity or slide back to a time where we will deny facts and demand. We need to produce more energy. That is why we keep saying “drill baby drill.” We should never hold back on that,” he said.

Reflecting on the sector’s evolution, Ayuk highlighted a significant shift from foreign-led development to African-driven investment. “Over 25 years ago, it was the majority of foreign companies doing the heavy lifting. Who would have thought it would be facilities such as Dangote transforming the continent and African entrepreneurs such as Sahara Group not only owning refineries but championing energy access.”

This transition signals a broader structural change in Africa’s energy landscape, where indigenous companies are increasingly leading capital deployment, infrastructure development and supply chain integration. Despite this progress, Ayuk stressed that Africa must confront its “realities” head-on. Energy poverty remains widespread, and addressing it requires actionable policies rather than ideological debates. “Energy poverty cannot only be an ideology but action,” he said, urging stakeholders to keep the scale of the challenge firmly in focus.

Central to this transformation is the expansion of refining capacity. Ayuk’s call to “refine, baby refine” underscored the importance of building domestic processing capabilities to reduce reliance on imported fuels, stabilize supply and retain economic value within African markets. Strengthening refining also supports broader industrialization efforts, enabling the development of petrochemicals, manufacturing and logistics sectors.

However, achieving this vision requires enabling policy environments. Ayuk emphasized the need for stable regulatory frameworks, competitive fiscal regimes and market-driven approaches that incentivize investment. “We need to embrace free markets, limited governance and accountability. Companies need to be given the tools they need to be successful,” he stated. This includes reducing excessive taxation, streamlining regulatory processes and ensuring that African entrepreneurs have access to capital.

Cross-border collaboration also emerged as a critical theme. While intra-African trade is often discussed, Ayuk pointed to persistent barriers that continue to limit progress. “Tariffs and customs are so difficult and we need to address that. We need to address barriers and build together,” he said, calling for greater alignment between countries to facilitate regional energy trade and optimize infrastructure utilization.

In addition, Ayuk highlighted the importance of financial independence within the sector. To meet anticipated demand growth, Africa requires more than $100 billion in refining investment. This highlights a unique opportunity for both foreign and African financial institutions looking at mobilizing capital for impactful projects across the continent.

Ultimately, Ayuk’s remarks reinforced a broader industry consensus: Africa must unapologetically pursue energy development across the value chain. “We will never back down on producing oil. We will refine, drill and ensure that our young people across the continent have access to energy. We will never apologize for producing the energy we need,” he said.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Posted on

Public Protector clears Deputy President of wrongdoing

Source: Government of South Africa

Public Protector clears Deputy President of wrongdoing

The Office of the Deputy President has welcomed the Public Protector’s findings that cleared Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Transport Minister Barbara Creecy of any alleged wrongdoing regarding the appointment of outgoing South African Airways (SAA) CEO, Professor John Lamola. 

According to the Public Protector, an investigation found no evidence that Deputy President Mashatile and Minister Creecy improperly interfered in the recruitment process or breached the Executive Ethics Code. 

“This ruling confirms and reiterates the Deputy President’s assertion that the media reports regarding the matter were misguided, misleading and mischievous to suggest that Deputy President Mashatile and Minister Creecy held ‘private interviews’ outside of the formal selection process for the position of SAA CEO.

“The Office of the Deputy President remains committed and supports any internal recruitment and appointment processes of qualified candidates for any positions in the SEOs,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle

16 views

Posted on

JSC resolves on three candidates for Supreme Court of Appeal

Source: Government of South Africa

JSC resolves on three candidates for Supreme Court of Appeal

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has resolved to advise President Cyril Ramaphosa to appoint three judges to the Supreme Court of Appeal.

This after the commission conducted interviews for the positions on Monday.

The three candidates are: Judge Thandi Victoria Norman, Judge Bashier Vally and Judge Leonie Windell.

Today, the JSC will continue with interviews for candidates to fill vacancies for the Judge President position in the Gauteng Division of the High Court, two vacancies at the Competition Appeal Court and one vacancy at the Land Court.

The interviews can be watched live on the Judiciary’s YouTube page at: https://www.youtube.com/live/ENDLobWDE3s. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB

21 views

Posted on

SA, Germany upgrade ties to Strategic Partnership at landmark BNC meeting

Source: Government of South Africa

SA, Germany upgrade ties to Strategic Partnership at landmark BNC meeting

South Africa and Germany have agreed to upgrade their bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership, marking a major outcome of the 12th German-South African Bi-National Commission (BNC) meeting held in Berlin, Germany, on Monday. 

In a joint press statement issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), the two countries said the move will intensify high-level dialogue on strategic issues, including peace and security, multilateral cooperation and democratic resilience. 

“Germany and South Africa will upgrade their relations to a Strategic Partnership to intensify their dialogue on strategic issues at the senior official level, including through consultation formats covering multilateral issues, conflict mediation, peace and security in Europe and Africa, regional cooperation, democratic resilience, cyber foreign policy and navy staff talks,” the statement read. 

The meeting, co-chaired by International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola and his German counterpart, Johann Wadephul, also resulted in the signing of a Joint Action Plan consolidating outcomes across multiple sectors.

The two nations underscored the importance of stable partnerships between democratic middle powers amid global uncertainty. 

“In the Joint Action Plan, the Foreign Ministers underscore that stable partnerships between middle power and democratic nations are essential in the current volatile international environment, in particular,” the joint statement said. 

They further highlighted that cooperation between the countries is grounded in shared values, including a commitment to a rules-based international order guided by the United Nations Charter and international law, as well as the promotion of human rights.

“South African-German cooperation is founded on a shared commitment to the principles of a rules-based international order based on the Charter of the United Nations and international law, including the promotion and protection of human rights. 

“The Foreign Ministers emphasised their shared belief that representative democracy is the most effective form of government when it comes to ensuring citizens’ freedom, security and prosperity,” the statement said.

The BNC meeting also delivered significant economic and development outcomes, including Germany’s pledge of a new €200 million concessional loan under the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) and technical cooperation to accelerate grid and renewables investments, backing South Africa’s continued pursuit of more ambitious climate targets.

In addition, the countries agreed to expand cooperation on green hydrogen and battery value chains, backed by more than €270 million in German and EU funding, and to strengthen collaboration on critical raw materials through new initiatives aimed at supporting mineral beneficiation.

Progress was also recorded in health, with enhanced cooperation on vaccine production to strengthen regional health security and foster innovation in the pharmaceutical sector.  

On trade and investment, the two countries committed to intensifying cooperation, also to implement the EU-South Africa Clean Trade and Investment Partnership notably by addressing non-tariff barriers and regulatory issues and improving framework conditions for investors, for example in energy and transport infrastructure, through quarterly consultations between the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) and the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE).

The meeting further reinforced collaboration in education, skills development and youth employment, with expanded vocational training initiatives and academic cooperation.

Environmental protection and climate action also featured prominently, with both countries agreeing to strengthen cooperation on biodiversity, ocean protection, circular economy practices and combating environmental crimes.

The BNC, established in 1996 by former President Nelson Mandela and former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, remains the primary mechanism guiding bilateral relations between the two countries. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM

25 views

Posted on

Câmara Africana de Energia: África tem de «refinar, baby, refinar», à medida que as perturbações no abastecimento global revelam a necessidade de expansão do setor a jusante

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Baixar .tipo

O setor a jusante africano está de volta ao centro das atenções, uma vez que as perturbações no abastecimento global provocadas pela Guerra do Golfo destacam a necessidade de uma reformulação estratégica dos sistemas energéticos africanos. Com mais de 600 milhões de pessoas a viver sem acesso à eletricidade, 900 milhões de pessoas a viver sem acesso a soluções de cozinha limpas e a procura africana de petróleo prevista para atingir 4,5 milhões de barris por dia (bpd) até 2050, as partes interessadas do setor na ARDA Week 2026 lançaram um apelo para expandir a capacidade de refinação, reduzir a dependência das importações e libertar maior valor dos recursos de hidrocarbonetos do continente.

Num discurso de abertura do evento, NJ Ayuk, Presidente Executivo da Câmara Africana de Energia, reforçou a necessidade de expansão do setor a jusante como pedra angular da segurança energética e do desenvolvimento industrial em todo o continente. Ele enfatizou que a urgência de construir sistemas robustos de refinação e distribuição já não é uma discussão política, mas um imperativo económico e social — e um imperativo do qual África deve assumir a responsabilidade.

«Uma grande questão para África é se vamos abraçar a inovação, o crescimento e a prosperidade ou se vamos recuar para uma época em que negamos os factos e as necessidades. Precisamos de produzir mais energia. É por isso que continuamos a dizer “perfura, miúdo, perfura”. Nunca devemos hesitar nisso», afirmou.

Refletindo sobre a evolução do setor, Ayuk destacou uma mudança significativa do desenvolvimento liderado por estrangeiros para o investimento impulsionado por africanos. “Há mais de 25 anos, era a maioria das empresas estrangeiras que fazia o trabalho pesado. Quem diria que seriam instalações como a Dangote a transformar o continente e empresários africanos como o Sahara Group não só a possuir refinarias, mas também a defender o acesso à energia.”

Esta transição sinaliza uma mudança estrutural mais ampla no panorama energético de África, onde as empresas locais estão cada vez mais a liderar a mobilização de capital, o desenvolvimento de infraestruturas e a integração da cadeia de abastecimento. Apesar deste progresso, Ayuk salientou que África deve enfrentar as suas «realidades» de frente. A pobreza energética continua generalizada e resolvê-la requer políticas exequíveis, em vez de debates ideológicos. «A pobreza energética não pode ser apenas uma ideologia, mas sim ação», afirmou, exortando as partes interessadas a manterem o foco na dimensão do desafio.

Fundamental para esta transformação é a expansão da capacidade de refinação. O apelo de Ayuk para «refinar, baby refinar» sublinhou a importância de construir capacidades de processamento domésticas para reduzir a dependência de combustíveis importados, estabilizar o abastecimento e reter o valor económico nos mercados africanos. O reforço da refinação também apoia esforços de industrialização mais amplos, permitindo o desenvolvimento dos setores petroquímico, industrial e logístico.

No entanto, concretizar esta visão requer ambientes políticos favoráveis. Ayuk enfatizou a necessidade de quadros regulatórios estáveis, regimes fiscais competitivos e abordagens orientadas para o mercado que incentivem o investimento. «Precisamos de abraçar os mercados livres, a governação limitada e a responsabilização. As empresas precisam de receber as ferramentas de que necessitam para serem bem-sucedidas», afirmou. Isto inclui a redução da tributação excessiva, a simplificação dos processos regulatórios e a garantia de que os empreendedores africanos tenham acesso ao capital.

A colaboração transfronteiriça também surgiu como um tema crítico. Embora o comércio intra-africano seja frequentemente discutido, Ayuk apontou para barreiras persistentes que continuam a limitar o progresso. «As tarifas e os direitos aduaneiros são muito complexos e precisamos de resolver isso. Precisamos de eliminar as barreiras e construir em conjunto», disse ele, apelando a um maior alinhamento entre os países para facilitar o comércio regional de energia e otimizar a utilização das infraestruturas.

Além disso, Ayuk destacou a importância da independência financeira no setor. Para responder ao crescimento previsto da procura, África necessita de mais de 100 mil milhões de dólares em investimento na refinação. Isto destaca uma oportunidade única para instituições financeiras estrangeiras e africanas que pretendam mobilizar capital para projetos de impacto em todo o continente.

Em última análise, as observações de Ayuk reforçaram um consenso mais amplo do setor: África deve prosseguir sem hesitações com o desenvolvimento energético ao longo de toda a cadeia de valor. “Nunca desistiremos da produção de petróleo. Iremos refinar, perfurar e garantir que os nossos jovens em todo o continente tenham acesso à energia. Nunca pediremos desculpa por produzirmos a energia de que precisamos”, afirmou.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

Posted on

Ministro Eurico Monteiro preside cerimónia de assinatura de Memorando para inovação agrícola e empoderamento feminino em Ribeira Grande de Santiago

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Baixar .tipo

O Ministro da Promoção de Investimentos e Fomento Empresarial, Eurico Monteiro, presidiu, esta sexta-feira, 10 de abril, o ato de assinatura de um Memorando de Entendimento entre a Pró-Empresa, a Paróquia de São João Baptista e o Grupo Agro-Mater, para implementação de iniciativas de inovação agrícola e empoderamento feminino no Município de Ribeira Grande de Santiago.

O acordo, rubricado pelo Presidente do Conselho Diretivo da Pró-Empresa, Edney Cabral, e pelo Pároco José dos Santos Cabral, formaliza o apoio técnico e financeiro para a implementação do Espaço Aeropónico Agro-Mater, uma iniciativa inovadora, concebida por um grupo de mães solteiras e mulheres chefes de famílias daquela região, que aposta na produção agrícola sustentável através da tecnologia aeropónica, permitindo reduzir significativamente o consumo de água e garantir produção ao longo do ano.

Liderado por mulheres e jovens da comunidade, o projeto, que utiliza tecnologia avançada da Agrotonomy Corp para operar um sistema de 300 torres aeropónicas, surge como uma resposta concreta aos desafios locais, promovendo o empoderamento feminino, a geração de rendimento e a segurança alimentar.

Eurico Monteiro, que testemunhou o ato, deixou uma palavra de reconhecimento pelo esforço que tem sido feito pela paróquia junto à comunidade, para, em meio à dificuldades próprias de uma região historicamente marcada por secas severas, criar um projeto desta envergadura, com um importante significado para mulheres, mães solteiras, e cerca de 30 famílias e demais agregados, que serão beneficiadas nas 12 comunidades locais.

“Desde o primeiro momento foi um projeto que nos tocou, primeiro porque trata-se de uma comunidade com dificuldades, segundo porque diz respeito às mulheres, que normalmente dispõem de outras responsabilidades, como as de sustentarem integralmente as famílias, e em terceiro lugar porque é um projeto que casa muito bem com os problemas que temos ligados à escassez de água e as vezes do próprio solo para fazer agricultura”, afirmou o Ministro, destacando o engajamento do Governo de Cabo Verde nesta causa,  através da Pró-Empresa, organismo vocacionado para apoiar na montagem de projetos, mas também comparticipando no financiamento do projeto em mais de 50%.

“É compromisso assumido para que tenhamos, a curto prazo, o arranque deste importante projeto para que comece a trazer esperança e mudar a vida das pessoas desta comunidade”, completou o governante, destacando outros investimentos em curso, como o projeto de bacia hidrográfica do vale de São João Baptista, e a implemetação de centrais dessalinizadoras um pouco por todo o país, como forma de mitigar a problemática de água por que passam muitas localidades.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Governo de Cabo Verde.

Posted on

Vice-Primeiro-Ministro considerou que a rota Praia–Recife é uma oportunidade para Cabo Verde e pediu a sua sustentabilidade

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Baixar .tipo

O Vice-Primeiro-Ministro e Ministro das Finanças considerou, na sexta-feira, 10 de abril, que a rota internacional Praia–Recife–Praia representa uma oportunidade para Cabo Verde e apelou à sustentabilidade desta ligação.

Ao presidir ao ato de lançamento oficial da nova rota internacional, na cidade da Praia, Olavo Correia afirmou que, qualquer rota, sobretudo esta para o Brasil, que liga Cabo Verde ao mundo e a novas oportunidades, é sempre bem-vinda, considerando que Cabo Verde é um pequeno país insular arquipelágico que tem na sua abertura e ligação ao mundo a sua fonte de riqueza e de desenvolvimento.

“A rota tem de ser sustentável, tem de pagar a si própria e tem de criar valor para o nosso país e para a empresa. Por isso, deixo um apelo a todo o staff da empresa e a todos os stakeholders que fazem parte do setor da aviação civil em Cabo Verde, para que contribuam para que esta rota seja sustentável e para que possamos fazer a ponte entre o presente e o futuro”, considerou.

O governante destacou a necessidade de alinhar sempre as ambições com as ações, sublinhando que Cabo Verde conseguiu, em 2025, atingir a fasquia dos 1,2 milhões de turistas e que o país tem agora a meta de alcançar 1,5 milhões de turistas, acrescentando ainda que Cabo Verde cresceu, em 2025, acima de 7% no último trimestre e acima de 6% no conjunto do ano.

“Se hoje crescemos a um ritmo de cerca de 6% ao ano, apesar dos desafios que ainda temos ao nível da burocracia, da conectividade, do aumento de negócios e do clima de investimento, estou convicto de que, se continuarmos a reformar e se cada um der o seu contributo, Cabo Verde poderá rapidamente atingir um crescimento na ordem dos dois dígitos, o que nos permitirá, na próxima década, ser um país de rendimento alto e um país desenvolvido”, afirmou.

O Ministro referiu que a obrigação de Cabo Verde, enquanto nação e enquanto governo, é procurar estar sempre com os melhores, no plano interno e no plano externo, exemplificando com a concessão dos aeroportos à Vinci e a seleção da empresa Swissport International AG como parceiro estratégico para a privatização da Cabo Verde Handling, S.A.

“Temos de procurar alinhar a urgência, a velocidade e a escala com a burocracia. Infelizmente, ainda temos um país onde impera muita burocracia, mas, se queremos crescer mais e enfrentar desafios exigentes ao nível do combate à pobreza, do crescimento económico e da criação de melhores condições de vida para os nossos concidadãos, temos de ter um país com uma burocracia mínima”, indicou.

Olavo Correia sublinhou, também, a necessidade de fazer a ponte entre o público e o privado, justificando que o setor público cria as condições e o ambiente, mas é o setor privado que empreende, cria valor, empregos e riqueza, fazendo o país avançar.

“Por último, temos de fazer a transição da atual governação analógica, ainda ancorada em silos, departamentos e estruturas, para uma governação mais digital, mais interoperável e mais sinergética, porque só assim o país conseguirá avançar”, concluiu.

Por sua vez, o Embaixador do Brasil em Cabo Verde, Alexandre Silva, demonstrou a sua satisfação com a retoma das ligações aéreas entre os dois países, destacando o potencial para aproximar ainda mais as duas nações, unidas por laços culturais, históricos e políticos.

Segundo a administração da Cabo Verde Airlines (CVA), esta nova ligação aérea representa um marco estratégico para o país, com impacto ao nível da conectividade internacional, do turismo, dos negócios e do reforço das ligações com a diáspora.

Durante o evento, que contou com a presença de membros do Governo, diversas entidades institucionais e parceiros do setor, foram partilhados mais detalhes sobre a operação, incluindo frequências, perspetivas de crescimento da nova rota e a informação de que o início dos voos está previsto para o dia 6 de maio.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Governo de Cabo Verde.