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Swarts calls on South Africans to honour Mandela Day through service and climate action

Source: Government of South Africa

Swarts calls on South Africans to honour Mandela Day through service and climate action

Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Bernice Swarts has called on South Africans to participate in the celebration of International Nelson Mandela Day by taking action and donating time, knowledge or resources to a community organisation.

“Every act of kindness matters. Every act of service counts. Every tree planted contributes to a larger movement of hope and restoration,” the Deputy Minister said on Friday.

She was leading the commemoration of International Nelson Mandela Day at the National Botanical Gardens in Pretoria under the theme: “Planting Hope, Growing Resilience: 67 Minutes for People, Nature and Climate Action.”

The initiative forms part of a global tree-planting relay spanning continents and demonstrating that environmental stewardship knows no borders, and that each of us has a role to play in building a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.

“A restored landscape can support livelihoods and food security. A tree nursery can create employment. A protected wetland can provide clean water and reduce the impacts of floods. A safe public park can strengthen social cohesion and give children a place to learn, play and grow,” the Deputy Minister said. 

Swarts emphasised that greening communities is therefore not simply about making places beautiful. 

“It is about justice. It is about ensuring that every child, regardless of where they live, can enjoy clean air, shade, safe public spaces and a healthy environment.

“It is about addressing the environmental inequalities created by our history and ensuring that no community is left behind as we respond to climate change. When we plant trees in schools, clinics, parks, townships, informal settlements and rural villages, we are investing in dignity, health and equality,” the Deputy Minister said.

Mandela Day is an annual global celebration, officially recognised by the United Nations, which takes place on 18 July to honour the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela.

The day is a call to action for individuals, communities and organisations to reflect on Mandela’s values and principles and to take meaningful steps to make a positive impact in their own communities.

“As we dedicate our 67 minutes today, let us remember that the greatest tribute we can offer Nelson Mandela is not simply to speak about his legacy, but to live it. Madiba’s legacy calls on us to choose courage over indifference, service over self-interest and solidarity over division.

“It calls on us to recognise that poverty cannot be separated from inequality, and inequality cannot be separated from the condition of the places in which people live,” Swarts said.

She said Nelson Mandela showed us that change remains possible even when the challenges before us appear overwhelming.

“The challenges of poverty, inequity, climate change and environmental degradation are significant. But they are not beyond our ability to address.

“They are in the hands of young people who are determined to create a better future. As we leave here today, let us not plant trees only for photographs or ceremonies. Let us plant trees that will be protected, nurtured and allowed to grow.

“Let us plant not only trees, but also the seeds of dignity, opportunity, equality and lasting change. There is a well-known saying that the best time to plant a tree was many years ago. The second-best time is today. Let us plant hope, grow resilience and build communities in which both people and nature can thrive,” the Deputy Minister said.

Swarts said climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution and environmental degradation affect us all, but they do not affect everyone equally. 

“Poor and vulnerable communities are often the first to experience the consequences of floods, droughts, extreme heat, water shortages, food insecurity and the degradation of natural resources,” she said.

The Deputy Minister said many rural communities depend directly on healthy ecosystems for food, water, grazing, medicinal plants and income. 

“When rivers become polluted, wetlands disappear, forests are cleared, and land becomes degraded, these communities lose more than natural resources. They lose livelihoods, security and opportunities for development.

“In our cities, poorer communities frequently have fewer trees, fewer parks and fewer safe green spaces. They are more exposed to extreme heat, polluted air and environmental hazards,” she said. –SAnews.gov.za

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Government launches R24m 4IR training centre in Mossel Bay

Source: Government of South Africa

Government launches R24m 4IR training centre in Mossel Bay

Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister, Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has described the opening of a Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) Centre of Excellence and three new Centres of Specialisation in Mossel Bay as a significant step towards equipping young South Africans with skills for the future economy.

Dube-Ncube officially launched the centres at South Cape TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) College’s Mossel Bay Campus on Thursday.

The facilities, which include Centres of Specialisation in electrical, boilermaking and automotive motor mechanics, were established through a combined investment of more than R24 million from the Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP SETA), the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA (MerSETA), the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), with additional support from Intel and HP.

Speaking at the launch, Dube-Ncube said the investment demonstrated government’s commitment to expanding access to world-class technical and vocational education, while preparing students for the demands of rapidly evolving industries.

“This is not just money spent on machines. It is a vote of confidence in you [college students] and in the young people of this region. It says: we believe in your future, and we are backing it,” the Deputy Minister said.

The Deputy Minister noted that the South Cape TVET College facility is the latest in a growing network of 4IR Centres of Excellence established across the country, following similar launches at Eastcape Midlands TVET College, Flavius Mareka TVET College and Letaba TVET College.

She said the centres are intended to bring advanced technologies, including robotics, automation, artificial intelligence and smart manufacturing, directly into TVET college classrooms.

Preparing students for future industries

Dube-Ncube said the new Centres of Specialisation will provide industry-relevant training aligned with South Africa’s economic priorities.

Electrical students will receive training in modern electrical installations and renewable energy systems, while boilermaking students will develop skills in fabrication, welding and modern computer-aided design. Automotive Motor Mechanics students will be trained to service hybrid and electric vehicles.

“These skills are needed right now, and they will be needed even more tomorrow,” she said.

She encouraged students to embrace digital technologies, describing coding, robotics and artificial intelligence as essential skills for the future.

“No young South African should be excluded from learning the language of the future.”

Call for stronger industry partnerships

The Deputy Minister urged industry partners, funders and the Mossel Bay Municipality to continue supporting the college through workplace-based learning opportunities, mentorship programmes and graduate employment.

“A centre without a path to employment is just a building. A centre with that path is a bridge to a better life,” Dube-Ncube said.

She added that strengthening partnerships between TVET colleges and Economic Development Zones will ensure training programmes remain aligned with regional economic opportunities, particularly in sectors such as maritime industries, energy and agriculture along the Garden Route.

Dube-Ncube cited the collaboration between TVET colleges and the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone as an example of how structured partnerships can improve graduate employment outcomes.

Expanding access to international opportunities

The Deputy-Minister also highlighted government-funded international scholarship programmes available to South African students, saying many young people remain unaware of opportunities to study abroad.

She said South African students are currently studying through scholarship programmes in countries including Germany, the Netherlands, Japan and China, while 196 students had been awarded or nominated for scholarships in eight countries this year from more than 5 600 applications.

Applications for the Department’s 2027 international scholarship programmes are expected to open between August and December this year.

Supporting skills agenda

Dube-Ncube said the investment in modern training infrastructure will also strengthen South Africa’s competitiveness in international artisan competitions, such as the WorldSkills Championship.

She said access to globally competitive equipment will enable students to train to international standards in trades including electrical, welding and automotive technology.

“The world is changing fast. If we want our students to lead in that world, and not fall behind it, we must keep investing in the tools that make that possible.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

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SAPS, Higher Education strengthen campus safety with Northern Cape forum launch

Source: Government of South Africa

SAPS, Higher Education strengthen campus safety with Northern Cape forum launch

The South African Police Service (SAPS), in partnership with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), has launched a Campus Community Safety Forum at the Northern Cape Urban TVET College, strengthening efforts to improve safety and security at institutions of higher learning.

The launch, led by Northern Cape MEC for Transport, Safety and Liaison Limakatso Koloi, forms part of a national SAPS-DHET initiative to create safer learning environments for students, lecturers and support staff at universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges across South Africa.

Koloi was joined by the Northern Cape Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing, Major General Johnny Besnaar; DHET Chief Director Sabelo Buthelezi; Northern Cape Urban TVET College Deputy Principal Elgin Mokokong; senior SAPS management, stakeholder representatives and students.

To date, SAPS has launched 12 Campus Community Safety Forums nationwide, underscoring its commitment to strengthening safety and security at institutions of higher learning.

The forums provide a platform for SAPS, campus management, security personnel, students and community stakeholders to work together to identify safety concerns, address crime threats and implement proactive crime prevention measures on and around campuses.

“The initiative seeks to enhance coordination among all role players to tackle challenges such as gender-based violence and femicide, robberies, theft, drug-related crimes, bullying, intimidation and other threats that may negatively affect the learning environment,” SAPS said in a statement.

Addressing the launch, Koloi stressed that partnerships are critical to creating safer campuses.

“A safe and secure campus environment is essential for academic success and the wellbeing of students.

“We encourage students to actively participate in safety structures such as the Campus Community Safety Forum and to work closely with law enforcement and campus management in preventing crime.

“Safety is a shared responsibility, and together we can build campuses where students can learn without fear,” Koloi said.

Besnaar welcomed the establishment of the forum, saying stronger safety and security measures would help create an environment where students can focus on achieving their academic goals.

The two-day engagement concluded with stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to supporting the forum and its initiatives to strengthen safety, security and crime prevention on and around the campus.

“SAPS remains committed to ensuring that students at institutions of higher learning across South Africa are able to pursue their education in environments that are safe, secure and conducive to learning,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Koui : 100 bénéficiaires reçoivent 60 bœufs pour renforcer leur réinsertion économique et consolider la paix

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

À Koui, dans la préfecture de l’Ouham-Pendé, 100 bénéficiaires, dont 51 femmes, ont reçu le 16 juillet 2026 un total de 60 bœufs, après avoir achevé avec succès une formation en élevage organisée par la MINUSCA, en partenariat avec l’UNOPS, dans le cadre du Programme de réduction de la violence communautaire (CVR). Cette initiative, qui fait suite à des opérations réussies de désarmement et de démobilisation à Koui et à Sanguéré-Lim, vise à renforcer la réinsertion socio-économique des communautés affectées par les conflits, à améliorer durablement leurs moyens de subsistance et à consolider les acquis de la paix dans l’ouest de la République centrafricaine.​

Cette activité s’inscrit dans le prolongement des opérations de désarmement et de démobilisation menées récemment à Koui et à Sanguéré-Lim. À travers le programme CVR, la MINUSCA accompagne les communautés dans leur relèvement en favorisant les activités génératrices de revenus, le renforcement des capacités ainsi que l’autonomisation des jeunes, des femmes et des personnes les plus vulnérables. Pour cette neuvième édition du programme, un accent particulier a été mis sur les communes d’élevage afin de consolider les acquis de la paix dans cette partie de l’ouest du pays.​

Présidant la cérémonie, le sous-préfet de Koui, Lary Nureddin Mahala, a exhorté les bénéficiaires à mettre en pratique les connaissances acquises afin de faire de cette dotation un véritable levier de développement économique : « Nous comptons sur votre sens des responsabilités pour faire fructifier cet appui. Prenez soin de ces animaux, appliquez les connaissances acquises durant votre formation et développez progressivement vos exploitations ».​

Le représentant de l’État a également salué l’engagement constant de la MINUSCA aux côtés des autorités centrafricaines. « Je remercie la MINUSCA pour son engagement sans faille aux côtés des autorités et des populations centrafricaines dans la promotion de la cohésion sociale et le renforcement de la résilience des communautés », a-t-il dit.Intervenant au nom de la Cheffe du Bureau régional de la MINUSCA pour la région de l’Équateur, Dramane Darave, chargé de l’information publique à la MINUSCA, a rappelé que cette remise de bétail traduit l’engagement des Nations Unies à promouvoir des solutions durables en faveur de la paix.​

« Organisée à la suite des opérations réussies de désarmement et de démobilisation conduites ces derniers mois à Koui et à Sanguéré-Lim, cette activité de formation en élevage, couronnée par la remise de bœufs aux bénéficiaires, s’inscrit dans la stratégie de la MINUSCA visant à promouvoir des alternatives durables à la violence. Elle contribue à renforcer les opportunités économiques, la cohésion sociale et la résilience des communautés, tout en améliorant durablement leurs moyens de subsistance », a-t-il affirmé.​

Les 100 bénéficiaires ont suivi une formation technique portant sur l’alimentation du bétail, le suivi sanitaire, la reproduction et la gestion durable des élevages. Répartis en 20 groupements de cinq personnes, ils ont chacun reçu trois bœufs — deux femelles et un mâle — afin de favoriser le développement progressif de leurs exploitations.

Avant leur remise, tous les animaux ont été vaccinés par le service local de l’élevage. Pour Banam Christophe Julien, chef du service de l’élevage de Koui, cette étape est indispensable à la réussite du projet. « La vaccination protège la santé du bétail et contribue directement à la sécurité économique des bénéficiaires. L’élevage bien géré est une activité génératrice de revenus durable. Le respect des conseils techniques et le suivi régulier sont essentiels pour transformer cette dotation en bénéfices concrets pour les familles », a-t-il recommandé.​

Pour les bénéficiaires, cette initiative représente une véritable opportunité de reconstruire leurs moyens de subsistance après plusieurs années de crise.​

Cheffe de quartier et conseillère municipale à Koui, Dieynebou Dioguel rappelle que de nombreuses familles ont perdu leurs ressources au cours des violences qui ont touché la région. « Cette activité génératrice de revenus permettra à de nombreuses familles de développer une activité économique et de pouvoir se prendre en charge. C’est une initiative qui renforce aussi la cohésion sociale au sein de nos communautés », a-t-elle indiqué.

Originaire de Sanguéré-Lim, Saramandji Guy Alphonse, l’un des bénéficiaires, voit dans cette dotation un investissement pour l’avenir de sa famille. « Avec les revenus issus de l’élevage des bœufs, nous pourrons payer les frais de santé et de scolarité de nos enfants et offrir à nos familles de meilleures conditions de vie. Nous remercions la MINUSCA pour cette opportunité qui nous permet de construire un avenir meilleur », a-t-il confié.​

Même satisfaction pour Ntia Léonnie, bénéficiaire de Koui-Centre, qui estime que cette forme d’appui produira des effets durables. « Recevoir des bœufs est préférable à une aide financière ponctuelle. Ces animaux nous permettront de développer progressivement notre élevage, de générer des revenus sur le long terme et d’en faire profiter toute la communauté », a-t-elle expliqué.À travers cette remise de bétail, la MINUSCA poursuit son engagement en faveur du relèvement économique des communautés affectées par les conflits. En offrant aux bénéficiaires des moyens de subsistance durables, la Mission contribue à renforcer leur résilience, à favoriser la cohésion sociale et à consolider les acquis des opérations de désarmement et de démobilisation menées dans l’ouest de la République centrafricaine.​

Distribué par APO Group pour United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).

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Uganda: Parliament endorses Kiryowa, Bangumya for Vacant EALA Seats

Source: APO

Parliament has endorsed two National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidates to fill Uganda’s vacant positions in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) after adopting the report of the Parliamentary Verification Committee.

The vacancies arose following the election of former EALA representatives Hon. James Kakooza and Hon. Dennis Namara to the 12th Parliament of Uganda.

Presenting the committee’s report during the House sitting on Thursday, 16 July 2026, chaired by Speaker Jacob Marksons Oboth, the Chairperson of the Verification Committee, Hon. Dicksons Kateshumbwa (NRM, Sheema Municipality), said only two aspirants Stella Kiryowa and Fred Rwakaizi Bangumya submitted nomination papers by the 10 July 2026 deadline.

The committee established that both Kiryowa and Bangumya met the requirements provided for under Article 80 of the Constitution of Uganda and Article 50 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community.

The Speaker guided that the candidates introduce themselves and address the House before Members took a decision.

In her remarks, Kiryowa said she had started as a young girl in the corridors of Parliament and was now standing as an adult ready to shape the destiny of the more than 300 million people of the East African Community.

“It is no longer a question of whether East Africa can unite. The question before us today is: what kind of East Africa are we leaving for the next generation?” she said.

On his part, Bangumya said Uganda occupies a strategic and influential position in advancing the four pillars of the East African Community. He pledged to promote cross-border trade and support the development of sustainable regional infrastructure.

Speaker Oboth guided that since only two positions were available for Uganda’s representatives to EALA and only two candidates had been nominated and duly seconded unopposed, there was no need for a secret ballot.

The pair will now join Uganda’s current seven representatives who include, honourables Rose Akol Okullu, Paul Mwasa Musamali, George Stephen Odongo, Mary Mugyenyi, Gerald Blacks Siranda, Jacquiline Amongin, and Veronica Babirye Kadogo at the Arusha-based assembly.

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

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United Arab Emirates (UAE) Expresses Solidarity with Algeria and Conveys Condolences over Victims of Orphanage Fire in Algiers

Source: APO


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The United Arab Emirates has expressed its solidarity with the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria over the victims of a fire at an orphanage east of the capital, Algiers, which resulted in a number of deaths and injuries.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) conveyed its sincere condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims, and to the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria and its people over this tragedy, as well as its wishes for a speedy recovery for the injured.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Arab Emirates, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Eritrea: Hamelmalo College of Agriculture Graduates 375 Students

Source: APO


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At its 19th commencement ceremony, Hamelmalo College of Agriculture postgraduate on 375 students in various fields of study, including veterinary doctors.

The graduates included 20 in doctoral programs, 174 in degree programs and 181 in diploma programs in the fields of Agronomy, Animal Science, Plant Pathology, Horticulture, Veterinary Science, and Food Science and Technology.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Woldeamlak Araya, Dean of the College, said that after many years of effort and commitment, 20 students, including seven female students, graduated with doctoral degrees in Veterinary Science for the first time. He expressed his expectation that the graduates will contribute to efforts to ensure access to nutritious food, promote economic development and sustainably manage natural resources.

The guest of honor, Mr. Tesfay Gebreselasie, Minister of Land, Water and Environment, underlined that ensuring the health and prosperity of citizens is a declared objective of the Eritrean Government. He expressed the expectation of the people and Government that the graduates will play their due part in ensuring access to nutritious food by contributing to national agricultural development.

A representative of the graduates expressed gratitude for the educational opportunity and affirmed their commitment to living up to the expectations of the people and Government who supported them throughout their academic journey.

At the event, outstanding students were awarded medals of recognition.

Since its establishment, Hamelmalo College of Agriculture has graduated 7,166 students from doctoral, master’s degree, first-degree and diploma programs.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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South Africa: World Bank Group Support to Boost Infrastructure Modernization and Create Nearly 600,000 Jobs

Source: APO


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South Africa’s efforts to modernize critical infrastructure and unlock job creation by tackling long-standing bottlenecks in electricity, freight transport, and water and sanitation services, got a boost with support from the World Bank Group. The new financing is expected to help create almost 600,000 new direct and indirect jobs by 2032, according to World Bank Group economic modeling of how the reforms ripple through the broader economy.

The $1.5 billion International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) loan is the fourth in a series of stand-alone Development Policy Loans to South Africa since 2022. The operation builds on reforms that are already showing results: load shedding has been virtually eliminated for a year and a half, private investment in renewable energy has increased sixfold, and rail and port freight volumes have risen by more than 50% since 2023. It is the first of these stand-alone operations to extend support to water and sanitation, alongside continued reforms in electricity and freight transport.

Key reforms supported by the operation include the launch of a competitive wholesale electricity market and scaled-up private investment in transmission, with a target of 300,000 new household electricity connections by December 2027. In freight transport, the program supports competition among private rail operators and the country’s first-ever port terminal concession in Durban. In water and sanitation, it strengthens regulatory oversight, opens the door to private water service providers, and gives the newly established National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency greater autonomy to invest in bulk water infrastructure.

Most of the nearly 600,000 projected direct and indirect jobs will come from the reforms in the electricity and transport sectors which together are expected to support around 280,000 jobs by 2027, rising to over 560,000 by 2032. Policy reforms will improve management efficiency and scale up private investment in rail, ports, and energy infrastructure, lowering business costs and supporting additional investment and employment in other sectors. Water and sanitation reforms are not expected to directly create large numbers of jobs, as major users like agriculture and mining already rely on alternative sources, but they are projected to bring concrete improvements for millions of households, including less time spent collecting water, lower health risks, and better access for the poorest female-headed households.

“This program reflects our government’s determination to remove the infrastructure constraints that have held back growth and job creation for too long,” said Enoch Godongwana, South Africa’s Minister of Finance. “Working with the World Bank Group, we are deepening reforms already delivering results in energy and transport, while for the first time tackling the governance and investment gaps in our water sector that affect millions of households, particularly the poorest.”

“South Africa has shown that sustained reform can turn around even deep-seated infrastructure crises,” said Satu Kahkonen, World Bank Group Division Director for South Africa. “By extending this support to water and sanitation for the first time, we are helping ensure the benefits of reform reach every household, while these efforts together are expected to help create almost 600,000 jobs and attract much-needed private investment.”

The operation was prepared in coordination with development partners active in South Africa’s infrastructure sector, including Germany, Japan, the OPEC Fund, and the African Development Bank.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.

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Seychelles: New Government housing model launched as Six Mid-range Condominium Units Handed over at Les Mamelles

Source: APO

A new chapter in Seychelles’ housing programme unfolded today with the official handing over of six Government-built mid-range condominium units at Brilliant, Les Mamelles, introducing a new affordable housing model that combines homeowner contributions with Government investment in supporting infrastructure.

President Patrick Herminie presided over the inauguration of Mount Josephine Residence 25, joined by Vice President Sebastien Pillay, Cabinet Ministers, Secretary of State for Lands, Housing and Infrastructure Joseph Francois, the Honourable Member of the National Assembly for Les Mamelles Bernard Georges, Leader of Government Business in the National Assembly Sylvanne Lemiel, District Administrator Mershia Denis, and officials from the Department of Lands and Housing.

The development comprises a single residential block of six two-bedroom units and is the first Government-designed and Government-constructed mid-range condominium project under a shared-cost model. Valued at SCR 9,041,641.80, the project includes SCR 5,679,510.35 for construction and SCR 3,362,131.45 for external works and supporting infrastructure. 

Under the initiative, homeowners finance the cost of their units while Government absorbs the cost of external works and infrastructure, providing a subsidy of approximately 37 per cent. Construction, undertaken by Reliance Engineering Services Limited, commenced in July 2025 and was completed in June 2026.

In his address, President Herminie described the inauguration of Mount Josephine Residence 25 as another important milestone in the Government’s housing programme, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that every Seychellois has access to a safe, decent and affordable home.

The President said a home represents far more than a physical structure, describing it as the foundation upon which families build their future, children grow in security and communities flourish. He added that the development demonstrates how careful planning and the efficient use of limited land can deliver quality housing while preserving the surrounding environment.

Highlighting the project’s affordability, President Herminie noted that the development represents an investment of more than SCR 9 million and provides six modern two-bedroom apartments. Through government support, each beneficiary will acquire their home for approximately SCR 900,000, compared with an actual cost of around SCR 1.5 million.

The President congratulated them on achieving home ownership after years of patience, hard work, saving and securing loans to finance their homes. He described their perseverance as an inspiration to other Seychellois aspiring to own a home and expressed confidence that the new residence would become a thriving community where families prosper, children grow in safety and neighbours foster a spirit of solidarity and mutual support.

For his part, Mr Georges welcomed the completion of the project, describing it as a significant investment in the district and in the lives of the six beneficiary families. He said the new condominium reflects the government’s commitment to expanding access to affordable housing while making efficient use of limited land resources. Mr Georges congratulated the new homeowners and encouraged them to foster a strong sense of community, mutual respect and responsibility as they begin a new chapter at Mount Josephine Residence 25.

Speaking to State House Press, one of the new homeowners, Mr Tony Esparon, described the occasion as a life-changing moment.

“Today is a very special day for me and my family. Receiving the keys to our new home is a dream come true, and I am sincerely grateful to the government for making this opportunity possible. This home gives us a fresh start and the confidence to build a better future. We are proud to be among the beneficiaries of this new housing initiative, and we look forward to creating many happy memories here,” he said.

The inauguration of Mount Josephine Residence 25 forms part of the government’s continued efforts to expand access to affordable housing while introducing innovative financing models that promote home ownership and make the best use of Seychelles’ limited land resources.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), Development Finance Corporation (DFC), Standard Bank and Africa50 Lead Finance Lineup at African Mining Week 2026

Source: APO

As Africa moves to unlock an estimated $29.5 trillion in mine-site mineral value, development finance institutions, commercial banks and private investment firms are expanding financial support to help transform the continent into a globally competitive mining hub.

The growing role of financiers in unlocking Africa’s mining value chain will take center stage at African Mining Week (AMW) 2026, taking place October 14–16 in Cape Town. The event will bring together leading financial institutions – including Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa (IDC), Standard Bank, Absa Bank, Trade and Development Bank (TDB), Africa50, Apeiron Investment Group and World Mining Investment – to showcase financing models supporting mining development across the continent.

AMW comes as momentum behind mining finance continues to accelerate. In July 2026, AFC, DFC and the Development Bank of Southern Africa reached financial close on the $753 million Lobito Corridor Railway Project, one of Africa’s most significant infrastructure investments supporting the mining sector. The project will rehabilitate 1,300 km of railway linking Angola’s Port of Lobito with the DRC and Zambia, creating a faster and more cost-effective export corridor for copper, cobalt and other strategic minerals.

At AMW 2026, Vibhuti Jain, Managing Director & Regional Head for Africa at DFC, is expected to discuss the institution’s growing investment portfolio and the U.S. strategy to strengthen critical mineral supply chains through Africa.

The event also comes as South Africa strengthens exploration finance through the IDC-managed Junior Exploration Fund. In June 2026, the IDC reached a new financing milestone, increasing the number of junior mining companies supported through the fund to 13. Earlier in the year, the IDC expanded the fund’s capital allocation to R600 million, advancing the country’s efforts to revive exploration, stimulate greenfield development and strengthen the participation of locally owned mining companies. Thabiso Sekano, IDC’s Head of Mining and Metals, is expected to discuss the fund’s progress alongside broader initiatives supporting the mining industry through investments in industrial infrastructure.

Infrastructure finance will also be a key focus at AMW 2026, with Simbarashe Chikarango, Head of Project and Infrastructure Finance at TDB, and Folaseto Akin-Olugbade of Africa50 expected to highlight investments aimed at addressing the energy, transport and logistics constraints that continue to limit mining productivity.

TDB recently partnered with several financial institutions to launch a $176 million energy investment platform that will accelerate private-sector electrification across sub-Saharan Africa. The bank is also providing a $150 million syndicated facility to Mota-Engil Africa to finance transport, mining and infrastructure projects across multiple African markets. Meanwhile, Africa50 is supporting Kenya’s $311 million electricity transmission public-private partnership, strengthening power infrastructure essential for mining and industrial development.

Commercial banks are likewise expanding their mining portfolios. Standard Bank and Absa Bank recently participated in a $130 million financing package for South African mining company Tharisa, supporting the company’s long-term growth strategy. Standard Bank also arranged a $150 million financing facility for Rosh Pinah Zinc Corporation in Namibia to support mine expansion, reinforcing its commitment to financing strategic mining projects across Southern Africa.

Deerosh Maharaj, Executive Head for Energy, Infrastructure and Mining at Standard Bank, and Shirley Webber, Managing Principal and Coverage Head for Resources and Energy at Absa Bank, are expected to discuss opportunities to increase capital flows into African mining projects.

Private investment firms are also stepping up efforts to channel international capital into Africa’s mining sector. Apeiron Investment Group and World Mining Investment are expanding initiatives to connect investors with the continent’s growing pipeline of mining opportunities, as Africa seeks to secure a significant share of the estimated $500 billion in global investment required by 2040 to meet soaring demand for critical minerals, including copper, lithium, graphite, nickel and rare earth elements.

Sebastian Wagner, Head of Natural Resources at Apeiron Investment Group, and Didier Rault, CEO of World Mining Investment, are expected to showcase financing strategies designed to connect global investors with Africa’s next generation of mining projects.

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

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