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The United Kingdom (UK) Court Cannot Decide Uganda’s Energy Future; Let Uganda and Africans Make Their Energy Choices

Source: APO


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Four Ugandan farmers have launched a legal challenge in the UK High Court against the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), seeking to apply Ugandan constitutional, environmental and climate law to EACOP Ltd., the project’s UK-registered operating company. Filed mere months before the pipeline is expected to begin transporting Uganda’s first crude exports, the case argues that the 1,445-km pipeline breaches Uganda’s legal protections and asks the English court to prevent the project from becoming operational.

This is clearly nothing but the latest example of foreign-backed litigation targeting strategically important African energy projects through overseas courts. And it comes at a time when Uganda and Tanzania stand on the threshold of transformational economic opportunity.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) maintains that decisions about Uganda’s energy future should be made in Uganda – not in London.

And the timing is no coincidence.

After years of permitting, financing and construction, EACOP is approaching one of its most important milestones. Yet just as Uganda prepares to become an oil-producing nation, another legal challenge has emerged – this time asking a British court to determine whether one of Africa’s most important infrastructure projects should proceed.

“This is colonialism 2.0,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “For generations, Africa was told what resources it could exploit and how it should develop. Today, some of those same pressures are being repackaged through foreign-funded litigation and ideological campaigns that seek to dictate Africa’s energy choices from thousands of kilometres away. UK courts should not determine Uganda’s energy future. Ugandans should.”

The Chamber has long warned that legal campaigns against projects such as EACOP are becoming an increasingly common tool for delaying African energy development. Whether through repeated court challenges in East Africa, litigation targeting Mozambique LNG or legal battles that have stalled exploration in South Africa, the pattern is becoming difficult to ignore.

Each lawsuit may differ in its legal basis, but the cumulative effect is the same: greater uncertainty for investors, delayed infrastructure and slower economic growth for countries seeking to monetize their natural resources.

EACOP is the infrastructure that unlocks Uganda’s estimated 6.5 billion barrels of oil resources, connects the country’s production to international markets and creates opportunities for thousands of workers, local businesses and suppliers across Uganda and Tanzania. Developed by some of the world’s largest companies – TotalEnergies and CNOOC – alongside the Uganda National Oil Company and Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation, the project will strengthen local content, generate government revenues, expand infrastructure and support broader industrial development across East Africa.

Activists argue the project has affected more than 100,000 people through land acquisition while raising concerns about freshwater systems and protected habitats. TotalEnergies has consistently maintained that the project has implemented extensive environmental and social safeguards, biodiversity protection measures and international standards designed to minimize impacts while delivering long-term benefits to host communities.

Delaying those benefits carries consequences.

Every year that strategic energy projects are tied up in prolonged litigation is another year that jobs are postponed, investment decisions become more difficult and governments face greater obstacles in addressing energy poverty. For many African countries, responsible oil and gas development remains one of the few realistic pathways to financing schools, hospitals, roads, electricity networks and future renewable energy investments.

The Chamber also argues that the lawsuit raises a broader question of sovereignty. African institutions have already examined legal challenges related to EACOP, and Uganda possesses its own constitutional and judicial mechanisms for resolving disputes. Asking a UK court to intervene risks setting a precedent that extends well beyond one project. It effectively invites foreign jurisdictions to influence domestic development priorities across the continent.

“The time for Uganda to exploit its immensely valuable resources is now. Africa will not give in to international coercion to prevent the continent from energizing and bringing wealth to its people. Africa will not succumb to pressure to adhere to the energy transition on anyone else’s terms. We know what is good for African energy and we will do everything in our power to ensure that the continent’s resources benefit her people,” Ayuk concluded.

The debate over EACOP has never been about a pipeline alone. It is whether Africans retain the sovereign right to develop their own resources, under their own laws and for the benefit of their own people, or whether those decisions will increasingly be contested in foreign capitals by interests far removed from the communities they claim to represent.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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One Street Studios Named by Afreximbank and Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA) as Co-General Partner of the Pan African Film Fund Aiming to Mobilise up to US$1 Billion

Source: APO


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African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), through its development impact investment arm, the Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA), today announced the appointment of One Street Studios as the Co-General Partner of the Pan African Film Fund. This Fund aims to mobilise up to US$1 billion for Africa’s film and creative industries.

Launched in May 2025 as part of the Afreximbank Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) programme, the Pan-African Film Fund will mobilise and direct capital towards the growth of Africa’s film, television, and immersive media industries, positioning the continent as a globally competitive hub for audiovisual production and storytelling.

The Fund will support a diversified portfolio spanning content production, infrastructure and distribution, through a mix of equity, quasi-equity and structured financing solutions tailored to creative industry projects. It will prioritise export-oriented projects with strong global distribution potential, supported by partnerships with studios, streaming platforms and distributors to ensure a robust pipeline of bankable opportunities.

In addition to financing, the Fund will help address structural constraints across the industry by investing across the full value chain of the audiovisual sector. This includes supporting film and television content development and production, strengthening the global distribution of African-produced content, expanding digital streaming and exhibition platforms and developing production studios and post-production infrastructure. Through this integrated approach, the Fund aims to build a globally competitive film ecosystem capable of sustaining long-term growth and positioning African storytelling on the world stage.

FEDA and One Street Studios will serve as Co-General Partners to the Fund. This strategic partnership combines finance capabilities with industry expertise to build a scalable investment platform, aligned with the continent’s rapidly expanding creative economy. As a strategic partner, One Street Studios brings in an integrated model that merges capital with creative vision, financing, developing, and producing content from inception to screen, while bridging the diaspora and the African in support of African-owned narratives. As a fully funded studio, they invest in bold stories and overlooked storytellers, uniting project financing, publishing, and screen adaptation under one roof, to deliver distinctive stories to the global audience.

Dr. George Elombi, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, said: “The partnership between FEDA and One Street Studios is most timely and strategic as it serves as a crucial bridge uniting the diaspora with geographic Africa but also empowers our creative economy to take full ownership of our narratives, enabling us to produce what we consume and consume what we produce.”

Lavaille Lavette, Chief Executive Officer of the Pan-African Film Fund and Managing Partner at One Street Studios / JVL Media, emphasised: “Africa’s creative industries are entering a defining moment. Through the Pan-African Film Fund, we will mobilise long-term capital that supports creators, strengthens production capacity, and builds sustainable global distribution pathways for African storytelling.”

Emmanuel Assiak, Chief Executive Officer of FEDA, added: “African storytelling carries extraordinary cultural depth and universal relevance. Through the Pan-African Film Fund, FEDA is enabling creators to produce world-class content while connecting them with global audiences and long-term investment capital.”

The announcement marks a significant milestone in Afreximbank’s broader Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) strategy, reinforcing its commitment to transforming Africa’s creative industries into a globally competitive sector capable of driving economic growth, job creation, and cultural influence across the continent.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

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About FEDA:
The Fund for Export Development in Africa (“FEDA”) is the impact investment subsidiary of Afreximbank (www.afreximbank.com), set up to provide equity, quasi-equity, and debt capital to finance the multi-billion-dollar funding gap (particularly in equity) needed to transform the Trade sector in Africa. FEDA pursues a multi-sector investment strategy along the intra-African trade, value-added export development, and manufacturing value chain which includes financial services, technology, consumer and retail goods, manufacturing, transport & logistics, agribusiness, as well as ancillary trade enabling infrastructure such as industrial parks.

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 investment grade ratings assigned by China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), GCR (A), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-), Moody’s (Baa2) and S&P Global Ratings (BBB+). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

About One Street Studios:
One Street Studios is a visionary production company transforming storytelling by merging capital with creative vision. We finance, develop, and produce ambitious projects, bringing diverse narratives to life from inception to screen. As a fully funded studio, we back the stories and storytellers others overlook, investing in world-class content from the ground up. Our integrated model unites project financing, publishing, and screen adaptation under one roof, giving every project the capital, care, and creativity it needs to reach global audiences. We are committed to amplifying unique voices and producing content that engages, empowers, and moves the world.

About JVL Media:
JVL Media is a full-service production/media packaging firm and independent publisher founded by Viola Davis, Julius Tennon and Lavaille Lavette. The company is dedicated to producing exceptional content that celebrates and amplifies a diverse range of voices and experiences. In addition to its independent projects, JVL collaborates with leading media, and corporate entities to curate and deliver an eclectic spectrum of high-caliber intellectual properties. By championing inclusivity and innovation, JVL Media aims to inspire, enlighten, and entertain worldwide audiences.

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O One Street Studios foi nomeada pelo Afreximbank e pelo Fundo para o Desenvolvimento das Exportações em África (FEDA) como co-parceiro geral do Fundo Pan-Africano do Cinema, que tem como objectivo mobilizar até mil milhões de dólares americanos

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), através da sua divisão de investimento de impacto no desenvolvimento, o Fundo para o Desenvolvimento das Exportações em África (FEDA), anunciou hoje a nomeação do One Street Studios como co-parceiro geral do Fundo Pan-Africano do Cinema. Este Fundo tem como objectivo mobilizar até mil milhões de dólares americanos para as indústrias cinematográficas e criativas de África.

Lançado em Maio de 2025 no âmbito do programa Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) do Afreximbank, o Fundo Pan-Africano do Cinema irá mobilizar e canalizar capital para o crescimento das indústrias cinematográficas, televisivas e de meios imersivos de África, posicionando o continente como um pólo globalmente competitivo para a produção audiovisual e a narração de histórias.

O Fundo apoiará uma carteira diversificada que abrange a produção de conteúdos, infra-estruturas e distribuição, através de uma combinação de soluções de capital próprio, quase-capital e financiamento estruturado, adaptadas a projectos da indústria criativa. Dará prioridade a projectos orientados para a exportação com forte potencial de distribuição global, apoiados por parcerias com estúdios, plataformas de streaming e distribuidores, para garantir um fluxo robusto de oportunidades rentáveis.

Para além do financiamento, o Fundo ajudará a resolver as limitações estruturais em toda a indústria, investindo em toda a cadeia de valor do sector audiovisual. Inclui o apoio ao desenvolvimento e produção de conteúdos cinematográficos e televisivos, o reforço da distribuição global de conteúdos produzidos em África, a expansão das plataformas digitais de streaming e exibição e desenvolvimento de estúdios de produção e infra-estruturas de pós-produção. Através desta abordagem integrada, o Fundo tem como objectivo construir um ecossistema cinematográfico competitivo a nível mundial, capaz de manter um crescimento a longo prazo e de posicionar a narração de histórias africanas no cenário mundial.

O FEDA e o One Street Studios serão Co-Parceiros Gerais do Fundo. Esta parceria estratégica combina capacidades financeiras com conhecimentos especializados do sector para construir uma plataforma de investimento escalável, alinhada com a economia criativa do continente, em rápida expansão. Enquanto parceiro estratégico, o One Street Studios traz um modelo integrado que combina capital com visão criativa, financiando, desenvolvendo e produzindo conteúdos desde a concepção até à sua exibição no ecrã, estabelecendo uma ponte entre a diáspora e África em apoio à narração de histórias de autoria africana. Enquanto estúdio totalmente financiado, investe em histórias ousadas e em narradores pouco reconhecidos, reunindo o financiamento de projectos, a edição e a adaptação para o ecrã sob o mesmo tecto, para levar histórias distintas ao público global.

O Dr. George Elombi, Presidente do Conselho de Administração do Afreximbank, afirmou: “A parceria entre o FEDA e o One Street Studios é extremamente oportuna e estratégica, uma vez que funciona como uma ponte crucial que une a diáspora à África geográfica, bem como capacita a nossa economia criativa a assumir plenamente o controlo da nossa narração de histórias, permitindo-nos produzir o que consumimos e consumir o que produzimos.”

Lavaille Lavette, Directora Executiva do Fundo Pan-Africano do Cinema e Sócia-Gerente do One Street Studios / JVL Media, afirmou: “As indústrias criativas de África estão a passar por um momento decisivo. Através do Fundo Pan-Africano do Cinema, iremos mobilizar capital a longo prazo que apoie os criadores, reforce a capacidade de produção e crie vias de distribuição globais sustentáveis para a narração de histórias africanas.”

Emmanuel Assiak, Director Executivo do FEDA, acrescentou que: “A narração de histórias africanas possui uma profundidade cultural extraordinária e uma relevância universal. Através do Fundo Pan-Africano do Cinema, o FEDA está a permitir que os criadores produzam conteúdos de classe mundial, estabelecendo ligações entre estes e os públicos globais, bem como com capital de investimento a longo prazo.”

Este anúncio representa um marco significativo na estratégia mais ampla do Afreximbank, o Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX), reforçando o seu compromisso de transformar as indústrias criativas de África num sector globalmente competitivo, capaz de impulsionar o crescimento económico, a criação de emprego e a influência cultural em todo o continente.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Afreximbank.

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Sobre o FEDA:
O Fundo para o Desenvolvimento das Exportações em África (FEDA) é a subsidiária de investimento de impacto do Afreximbank (www.afreximbank.com), criado para fornecer capital próprio, quase-capital e capital de dívida para financiar o défice de financiamento de vários milhares de milhões de dólares (especialmente em capital próprio) necessário para transformar o sector do comércio em África. O FEDA segue uma estratégia de investimento multissectorial ao longo do comércio intra-africano, desenvolvimento de exportações de valor acrescentado e cadeia de valor da indústria transformadora, que inclui serviços financeiros, tecnologia, bens de consumo e retalho, indústria transformadora, transportes e logística, agro-negócio, bem como infra-estruturas auxiliares que permitem o comércio, tais como parques industriais.

Sobre o Afreximbank:
O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) é uma instituição financeira multilateral pan-africana com mandato para financiar e promover o comércio intra e extra-africano. Há mais de 30 anos que o Banco utiliza estruturas inovadoras para oferecer soluções de financiamento que apoiam a transformação da estrutura do comércio africano, acelerando a industrialização e o comércio intra-regional, impulsionando assim a expansão económica em África. Apoiante firme do Acordo de Comércio Livre Continental Africano (ACLCA), o Afreximbank lançou um Sistema Pan-Africano de Pagamento e Liquidação (PAPSS) que foi adoptado pela União Africana (UA) como plataforma de pagamento e liquidação para sustentar a implementação da ZCLCA. Em colaboração com o Secretariado da ZCLCA e a UA, o Banco criou um Fundo de Ajustamento de 10 mil milhões de dólares para apoiar os países que participam de forma efectiva na ZCLCA. No final de Dezembro de 2025, o total de activos e passivos contingentes do Afreximbank atingiu mais de 48,5 mil milhões de USD, e os seus fundos próprios totalizaram 8,4 mil milhões de USD. O Afreximbank tem notações de grau de investimento atribuídas pela China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), pela GCR (A), pela Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) e pela Moody’s (Baa2). O Afreximbank tem notações de grau de investimento atribuídas pela China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), pela GCR (A), pela Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) e pela Moody’s (Baa2)  e pela S&P Global Ratings (BBB+). O Banco tem a sua sede em Cairo, Egipto.

Para mais informações, visite: www.Afreximbank.com.

Sobre o One Street Studios:
O One Street Studios é uma produtora visionária que está a transformar a arte de narração de histórias, combinando capital com visão criativa. Financiamos, desenvolvemos e produzimos projectos ambiciosos, dando vida a narração de histórias diversificadas, desde a sua concepção até à sua exibição no ecrã. Como estúdio totalmente financiado, apoiamos as histórias e os narradores que outros ignoram, investindo em conteúdos de classe mundial desde o início. O nosso modelo integrado reúne o financiamento de projectos, a edição e a adaptação para o ecrã sob o mesmo tecto, proporcionando a cada projecto o capital, o cuidado e a criatividade de que necessita para alcançar públicos globais. Estamos empenhados em amplificar vozes únicas e em produzir conteúdos que envolvam, capacitem e comovam o mundo.

Sobre a JVL Media:
A JVL Media é uma empresa de produção e pacotes de meios de comunicação de serviço completo e uma editora independente fundada por Viola Davis, Julius Tennon e Lavaille Lavette. A empresa dedica-se à produção de conteúdos excepcionais que celebram e amplificam uma gama diversificada de vozes e experiências. Para além dos seus projectos independentes, a JVL colabora com meios de comunicação de referência e entidades empresariais para seleccionar e disponibilizar um leque eclético de conteúdos intelectuais de alto padrão. Ao defender a inclusão e a inovação, a JVL Media tem como objectivo inspirar, esclarecer e entreter públicos em todo o mundo.

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Six Western Cape properties to remain centres for GBVF survivors

Source: Government of South Africa

Six Western Cape properties to remain centres for GBVF survivors

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has formalised the renewal of six State-owned properties made available to the Western Cape Department of Social Development for the continuation of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) shelter services.

The properties in Aurora, Albertinia, Heidelberg, Laingsburg and Moorreesburg were being used to support shelter and care services for survivors of GBVF. The renewal will ensure the continuation of these services.

At the signing ceremony held at the Western Cape Department of Social Development on Wednesday, Macpherson formalised the renewal of the six State-owned properties made available to the Western Cape Provincial MEC for Social Development, Jaco Londt, for the continued provision of shelter and support services for victims and survivors of GBVF.

Macpherson said the renewal reflects the department’s commitment to ensure that public property is used for the public good and does not stand idle or vacant in communities across the country.

The renewal of the properties is part of the department’s broader work to ensure that state-owned properties are actively used to support service delivery alongside the 801 unused and non-essential state-owned properties identified by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure for sale or repurposing.

“When I took office, I made it clear that public assets must be used for the public good. This renewal gives practical meaning to that commitment by ensuring that these state-owned properties continue serving as safe spaces for some of the most vulnerable people in our society.

“As the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, we are proud to support the Western Cape Department of Social Development and its partners in providing shelter, care and protection to victims and survivors of gender-based violence and femicide,” Macpherson said.

Londt said the partnership with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure will play an important role in supporting victims and survivors of Gender-based violence.

“This renewal reflects our shared commitment to putting the needs of our citizens first. By continuing this partnership, we are ensuring that these properties remain safe havens for women, children and vulnerable people fleeing gender-based violence and other crises,” Londt said.

The renewal process forms part of Macpherson’s commitment to ensure that public assets continue to be used for the public good, particularly where they support vulnerable communities and frontline social services. – SAnews.gov.za

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Home Affairs notes Constitutional Court judgment

Source: Government of South Africa

Home Affairs notes Constitutional Court judgment

The Department of Home Affairs has noted the judgment handed down on Tuesday by the Constitutional Court in the matter between the Scalabrini Centre of Cape Town and the Minister of Home Affairs. 

The Scalabrini Centre is a non-profit organisation that assists migrants, refugees, and local South Africans.

The case between the centre and the Minister concerned the constitutionality of certain provisions of the Refugees Act relating to the asylum application process. The Constitutional Court confirmed the Western Cape High Court’s declaration these provisions were unconstitutional and invalid.

The court declared sections of the Refugees Act, which allowed for immigration officials to deport an asylum seeker if they are in the country without a transit visa, unconstitutional. A transit visa is issued at a port of entry to allow a person to travel to a refugee reception centre and apply for asylum.

“The department respects the authority of the Constitutional Court and will study the judgment carefully to consider its implications, including the reasons provided by the Court, before determining the appropriate way forward.

“The department remains firmly committed to upholding the Constitution, while restoring and maintaining the rule of law through a secure, lawful and well-managed immigration system. 

“We remain committed to protecting the integrity of South Africa’s immigration system, while ensuring that our policies and legislation continue to give effect to the Constitution and the country’s international obligations,” the department said.

The Scalabrini Centre of Cape Town, represented by Lawyers for Human Rights, challenged the Minister of Home Affairs regarding practices related to asylum seekers and the “good cause” interviews required for their applications. If applicants failed to meet these conditions, they had to provide immigration officers with a valid reason and show “good cause” for lacking the required visa.

The case was brought to the Western Cape High Court, where the applicants argued that certain provisions of the Refugees Act unjustly barred individuals with irregular immigration statuses from seeking asylum, violating their constitutional rights and international non-refoulement principles

On 15 May 2025, the court ruled that specific sections of the Refugees Act were unconstitutional. The provisions in question included sections that penalised individuals for bureaucratic infractions, effectively blocking their access to refugee protections. 

The court emphasised that these regulations disproportionately affected vulnerable groups, particularly children, and failed to align with constitutional imperatives regarding the best interests of children. – SAnews.gov.za

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eThekwini reopens debt relief for customers with pending disputes

Source: Government of South Africa

eThekwini reopens debt relief for customers with pending disputes

The eThekwini Municipality has reopened its Special Debt Relief Programme for customers whose account disputes were still under consideration when the programme closed in January 2026.

The decision, approved by the eThekwini Municipal Council on Tuesday, applies exclusively to customers with unresolved disputes relating to electricity, water, and property rates accounts.

The reinstated programme is open with immediate effect and will remain open until the end of August 2026.

Approximately 154 qualifying account disputes, with a combined value of about R112.3 million, have been identified.

eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba has called on eligible customers to take advantage of this once-off opportunity.

“When we first introduced the programme from May to June 2025 to write off 50% of qualifying debt owed to the city as at the end of January 2025, ratepayers and various key stakeholders appealed to us to extend the programme.

“As a listening and caring municipality, we responded by extending it from November 2025 to January 2026, to help alleviate the financial burden on households and businesses,” Xaba said.

The mayor said during continued engagements with the public, customers who had lodged account disputes with the municipality requested that they also be afforded an opportunity to benefit, as their disputes were still being considered when the programme ended.

“We have listened to our residents with genuine concerns, and we are pleased to provide them with this opportunity. We encourage all eligible customers to take advantage of the programme,” he said.

The Special Debt Relief Programme, which concluded in January 2026, resulted in the municipality writing off R515 million in qualifying debt, providing much-needed financial relief to more than 4 500 customers.

Xaba urged all qualifying customers with pending account disputes to visit their nearest municipal customer service centres before the reinstated programme closes at the end of August.

Progress in smart meter rollout

The council also noted the Accounts Management Dashboard Overview Report for the month ending in May 2026, which highlighted progress in modernising the municipality’s water and electricity metering systems to improve billing accuracy, reduce losses and strengthen revenue collection.

The report noted that the Smart Water Metering Programme has exceeded its annual installation target, with 1 865 smart water meters installed and 135 currently being rolled out in areas including uMhlanga, Westville, New Germany, Bellair and Amanzimtoti.

The programme is replacing ageing conventional meters with smart technology to reduce water losses, improve consumption monitoring, enhance billing accuracy, and ensure fair allocation of free basic water.

The rollout of smart electricity meters aims to address ageing infrastructure, faulty meters, electricity theft and billing inaccuracies.

The smart meters provide real-time consumption monitoring, tamper detection and improved integration with the municipality’s billing and vending systems, helping to improve customer service and protect municipal revenue.

The report highlighted that approximately 95% of urban water meters are read and billed based on actual consumption.

It also acknowledged ongoing challenges, including faulty electricity meters awaiting replacement, which continue to contribute to estimated billing.

The municipality said it continues to implement measures to improve billing accuracy, ensure compliance with legislative requirements and enhance revenue collection. – SAnews.gov.za

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Spiro Kenya Unveils Khaligraph Jones as Brand Ambassador to Champion Kenya’s Electric Mobility Revolution

Source: APO – Report:

  • The announcement marks the beginning of a collaboration that brings together one of Kenya’s most influential personalities and a company at the forefront of transforming transportation through clean, sustainable mobility.
  • As Brand Ambassador, Khaligraph Jones will support Spiro’s initiatives to promote electric mobility, engage rider communities, and drive public awareness on the environmental and economic benefits of electric motorcycles and battery-swapping technology.

Spiro Kenya (www.Spironet.com), Africa’s leading electric mobility company, today officially unveiled award-winning rapper, entrepreneur, and cultural icon Khaligraph Jones as its Brand Ambassador in a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating awareness and adoption of electric mobility solutions across Kenya.

The announcement marks the beginning of a collaboration that brings together one of Kenya’s most influential personalities and a company at the forefront of transforming transportation through clean, sustainable mobility.

Welcoming Khaligraph Jones to the Spiro family, Raymond Robert Kitunga, Deputy Country Head, Spiro Kenya, expressed confidence that the partnership would strengthen the company’s efforts to connect with riders, young people, and communities across the country while advancing the conversation around sustainable transport.

“Today marks an exciting milestone for Spiro Kenya as we officially welcome Khaligraph Jones to our family. Through this partnership, we aim to inspire a new generation to embrace cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable transportation solutions,” said Raymond Robert Kitunga, Deputy Country Head, Spiro Kenya.

As Brand Ambassador, Khaligraph Jones will support Spiro’s initiatives to promote electric mobility, engage rider communities, and drive public awareness on the environmental and economic benefits of electric motorcycles and battery-swapping technology.

Speaking during the unveiling, Khaligraph Jones said he was proud to partner with a brand that is helping shape the future of transportation in Africa.

“I’m excited to join the Spiro family and be part of a movement that is changing how people move every day. I look forward to working together to inspire more Kenyans to embrace the future of mobility,” said Khaligraph Jones.

The partnership comes at a time when Kenya is increasingly embracing clean energy solutions and innovation-driven transportation systems. Spiro continues to provide riders with affordable, reliable, and environmentally friendly mobility solutions while creating economic opportunities for thousands of riders across the country.

The collaboration with Khaligraph Jones is expected to amplify Spiro’s brand visibility and support its mission of making electric mobility accessible to every rider while driving the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable future.

– on behalf of Spiro.

About Spiro:
Spiro is Africa’s largest electric mobility company present in seven countries, operating the continent’s most extensive and fastest growing network of battery-swapping for electric two-wheel vehicles. With more than 100,000 electric motorcycles, over 2500 battery swapping stations and more than 30 million battery swaps to date, Spiro has achieved over one billion kilometres of low-carbon emissions travel, transforming mobility and economies through substituting expensive imported fossil fuel-based transportation with affordable, accessible and sustainable solutions. Through its expanding regional production network and operational assembling facilities in Uganda, Kenya, Nigeria and Rwanda, Spiro is committed to delivering electric vehicles made in Africa by Africans for Africa and the world.

For more information, visit www.Spironet.com.

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North West strengthens veterinary capacity to combat livestock diseases

Source: Government of South Africa

North West strengthens veterinary capacity to combat livestock diseases

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) is strengthening the implementation of the provincial Brucellosis Reduction Plan by equipping Animal Health Technicians with specialised skills in disease surveillance, prevention and control.

Animal Health Technicians from across the province are currently participating in an accredited Bovine Brucellosis and Tuberculosis (BR/TB) Training Programme at the North-West University.

The two-week programme, which commenced on 29 June and concludes on 10 July 2026, combines theoretical and practical training to equip participants with knowledge and competencies required to diagnose and manage bovine brucellosis and tuberculosis.

The training is aimed at strengthening the capacity of Veterinary Services to protect livestock, safeguard public health and strengthen disease control across the province.

North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, said the course is a statutory requirement for Animal Health Technicians authorised to conduct tuberculosis and brucellosis diagnostic testing in cattle herds.

By investing in specialised training, Sambatha said the department is strengthening technical capacity within Veterinary Services, while ensuring compliance with professional and regulatory requirements.

“The programme reflects the department’s commitment to building a skilled workforce capable of responding effectively to animal health challenges. Investing in the development of our Animal Health Technicians is an investment in the future of animal health, food safety and agricultural growth in our province.

“Through this training, we are strengthening the capacity of our Veterinary Services to provide farmers with the quality support they need while ensuring effective disease prevention and control,” Sambatha said.

Participants welcomed the opportunity to strengthen their expertise.

Gomolemo Malau, from the Moses Kotane Veterinary Office, said the training will help her improve the quality of services provided to farmers, while Keitsile Isaac Mosimane, from the Naledi Veterinary Office, said it will deepen his understanding of animal diseases.

“I am here to learn more about brucellosis and deepen my understanding of the disease. By the end of the programme, I want to be better equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to support and empower the farmers I work with in my area,” Mosimane said.

Brucellosis and tuberculosis are zoonotic diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans, making the role of trained Animal Health Technicians critical in protecting public health, promoting food safety and supporting a sustainable livestock industry.

The training forms part of the implementation of the North West Brucellosis Reduction Plan, which seeks to reduce the prevalence of the disease through strengthened surveillance, testing, vaccination and improved disease management practices. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Hyatt Announces Plans for Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom

Source: APO – Report:

Hyatt (www.Hyatt.com) announced today that Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom is expected to open in late 2027 following the signing of a management agreement between a Hyatt affiliate and an affiliate of Albwardy Investments LLC. Located in Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls, home to the world-famous waterfall of the same name, the hotel will become the second Hyatt branded hotel in the country.

Originally built in 1966 and redeveloped in 1999, the property will undergo an extensive renovation and design transformation in line with the Grand Hyatt brand, creating a captivating destination within a destination that celebrates both the iconic and intimate moments through thoughtful details and grand experiences. The hotel will give World of Hyatt members and guests the opportunity to visit and stay in another renowned leisure travel destination. Upon opening as Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom, World of Hyatt members will be able to earn and redeem World of Hyatt benefits.

Nestled in the heart of Victoria Falls, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “The Smoke That Thunders”, the future Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom will offer a distinctive gateway to one of the world’s most iconic destinations. The location of the hotel will place guests within a vibrant and compact tourism hub, with only a five-minute walk to the Victoria Falls rainforest and easy access to regional safari circuits, guided tours, restaurants and cultural experiences.

“We are delighted to collaborate with Albwardy Investments to bring the Grand Hyatt brand to Victoria Falls,” said Ludwig Bouldoukian, Regional Vice President, Development, Middle East and Africa, Hyatt. “With its landmark location just moments from the Victoria Falls rainforest, this property represents a truly exceptional setting. This signing marks a significant milestone in Hyatt’s continued expansion across Africa, reinforcing our commitment on growing our brand presence in the region and providing World of Hyatt members more travel choice in inspiring destinations.”

“We are proud to collaborate with Hyatt on plans to introduce the Grand Hyatt brand to Victoria Falls,” said Mr. Ali Albwardy, Chairman, Albwardy Investments. “As one of the destination’s most established hospitality landmarks for more than 60 years, the property holds significant heritage and potential within Zimbabwe. Through its transformation under the Grand Hyatt brand, and with plans to reopen in late 2027, we aim to create an elevated hospitality experience that celebrates the culture, energy and significance of Victoria Falls, further reinforcing our commitment to Africa’s hospitality sector.”

The property is expected to feature 245 thoughtfully appointed guestrooms and an extensive range of facilities, including 1,800 sqm (19,375 sq ft) of meeting and event space, three dining venues, a spa and fitness center and a grand lobby lounge.  The hotel will offer a dynamic mix of culinary, leisure and wellness experiences along with welcoming service that creates an elevated experience for all guests. As the closest hotel to the entrance of the Victoria Falls national park on the Zimbabwean side of the border, the property is ideally located near the area’s key attractions. It is also a short 20-minute drive from Victoria Falls International Airport, making it well suited for leisure, events and business travellers alike.

To learn more about Hyatt, visit www.Hyatt.com

The term “Hyatt” is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates.

– on behalf of Hyatt.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Chloe Duncan
Hyatt – Middle East & Africa
Chloe.duncan@hyatt.com

About Grand Hyatt:
Around the world, Grand Hyatt hotels bring travel dreams to life by celebrating the iconic in small details and magnificent moments. Located at the crossroads of local culture and global business within major gateway cities and resort destinations, each Grand Hyatt hotel is uniquely designed to be a captivating destination within a destination. Grand Hyatt hotels deliver welcoming and elevated service, first-class accommodations and an abundance of options within a multicultural backdrop of dramatic architecture and bold and vibrant design. Grand Hyatt hotels boast inventive restaurants, luxury spas, fitness centers, and business and meeting facilities.

For additional information or to make a reservation, please visit www.GrandHyatt.com. Follow @GrandHyatt on Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4vVj8SG), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4vSYCCc) and tag photos with #GrandHyatt.

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation:
Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose – to care for people so they can be their best. As of March 31, 2026, the Company’s portfolio included more than 1,500 hotels and all-inclusive properties in 83 countries across six continents. The Company’s offering includes brands in the Luxury Portfolio, including Park Hyatt®, Alila®, Miraval®, Impression by Secrets, and The Unbound Collection by Hyatt®; the Lifestyle Portfolio, including Andaz®, Thompson Hotels®, The Standard®, Dream® Hotels, The StandardX®, Breathless Resorts & Spas®, JdV by Hyatt®, Bunkhouse® Hotels, and Me and All Hotels; the Inclusive Collection, including Zoëtry® Wellness & Spa Resorts, Hyatt Ziva®, Hyatt Zilara®, Secrets® Resorts & Spas, Dreams® Resorts & Spas, Hyatt Vivid® Hotels & Resorts, Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts, Alua Hotels & Resorts®, and Sunscape® Resorts & Spas; the Classics Portfolio, including Grand Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Destination by Hyatt®, Hyatt Centric®, Hyatt Vacation Club®, and Hyatt®; and the Essentials Portfolio, including Caption by Hyatt®, Unscripted by Hyatt, Hyatt Place®, Hyatt House®, Hyatt Studios®, Hyatt Select, and UrCove. Subsidiaries of the Company operate the World of Hyatt® loyalty program, ALG Vacations®, Mr & Mrs Smith, Unlimited Vacation Club®, Amstar® DMC destination management services, and Trisept Solutions® technology services.

For more information, please visit www.Hyatt.com.

Forward-Looking Statements:
​Forward-Looking Statements in this press release, which are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Our actual results, performance or achievements may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as “may,” “could,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “seek,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “likely,” “will,” “would” and variations of these terms and similar expressions, or the negative of these terms or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by us and our management, are inherently uncertain. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to: general economic uncertainty in key global markets and a worsening of global economic conditions or low levels of economic growth; the rate and pace of economic recovery following economic downturns; global supply chain constraints and interruptions, rising costs of construction-related labor and materials, and increases in costs due to inflation or other factors that may not be fully offset by increases in revenues in our business; risks affecting the luxury, resort, and all-inclusive lodging segments; levels of spending in business, leisure, and group segments, as well as consumer confidence; declines in occupancy and average daily rate; limited visibility with respect to future bookings; loss of key personnel; domestic and international political and geopolitical conditions, including political or civil unrest or changes in trade policy; the impact of global tariff policies or regulations; hostilities, or fear of hostilities, including future terrorist attacks, that affect travel; travel-related accidents; natural or man-made disasters, weather and climate-related events, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, tornadoes, droughts, floods, wildfires, oil spills, nuclear incidents, and global outbreaks of pandemics or contagious diseases, or fear of such outbreaks; our ability to successfully achieve specified levels of operating profits at hotels that have performance tests or guarantees in favor of our third-party owners; the impact of hotel renovations and redevelopments; risks associated with our capital allocation plans, share repurchase program, and dividend payments, including a reduction in, or elimination or suspension of, repurchase activity or dividend payments; the seasonal and cyclical nature of the real estate and hospitality businesses; changes in distribution arrangements, such as through internet travel intermediaries; changes in the tastes and preferences of our customers; relationships with colleagues and labor unions and changes in labor laws; the financial condition of, and our relationships with, third-party owners, franchisees, and hospitality venture partners; the possible inability of third-party owners, franchisees, or development partners to access the capital necessary to fund current operations or implement our plans for growth; risks associated with potential acquisitions and dispositions and our ability to successfully integrate completed acquisitions with existing operations or realize anticipated synergies; failure to successfully complete proposed transactions, including the failure to satisfy closing conditions or obtain required approvals; our ability to successfully complete dispositions of certain of our owned real estate assets within targeted timeframes and at expected values; our ability to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures; declines in the value of our real estate assets; unforeseen terminations of our management and hotel services agreements or franchise agreements; changes in federal, state, local, or foreign tax law; increases in interest rates, wages, and other operating costs; foreign exchange rate fluctuations or currency restructurings; risks associated with the introduction of new brand concepts, including lack of acceptance of new brands or innovation; general volatility of the capital markets and our ability to access such markets; changes in the competitive environment in our industry, industry consolidation, and the markets where we operate; our ability to successfully grow the World of Hyatt loyalty program and manage the Unlimited Vacation Club paid membership program; cyber incidents and information technology failures; outcomes of legal or administrative proceedings; and violations of regulations or laws related to our franchising business and licensing businesses and our international operations; and other risks discussed in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including our annual report on Form 10-K and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, which filings are available from the SEC. These factors are not necessarily all of the important factors that could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by any of our forward-looking statements.  We caution you not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which are made only as of the date of this press release. We undertake no obligation to update publicly any of these forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, new information or future events, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable law. If we update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that we will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.

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Gold Fields’ Benford Mokoatle to Shape Gold Investment Agenda at African Mining Week

Source: APO – Report:

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Benford Mokoatle, Executive Vice President at Gold Fields, has been appointed to the Advisory Board of African Mining Week (AMW) – Africa’s Most Influential Mining Conference.

Mokoatle’s appointment reinforces AMW’s commitment to bringing together leading industry figures to help shape discussions on the opportunities and challenges transforming Africa’s mining sector. It also comes at a pivotal time for the continent’s gold industry, as record gold prices and sustained central bank demand create favorable conditions for new project development and investment.

In his advisory role, Mokoatle will provide strategic guidance on the event’s gold-focused agenda, engage with industry stakeholders and support participation from mining executives, investors and government leaders. His expertise will help ensure AMW delivers practical insights into the trends shaping Africa’s gold industry while fostering partnerships that unlock new investment opportunities.

Taking place under the theme, “Mining the Future: Unearthing Africa’s Full Mineral Value Chain” from October 14–16 in Cape Town, AMW will feature a dedicated Gold Forum examining the key opportunities and challenges across Africa’s gold value chain. Discussions will focus on increasing production, advancing local beneficiation and supporting the formalization of artisanal and small-scale mining.

With more than 21 years of mining experience, Mokoatle has held senior technical and operational leadership positions at Gold Fields, AngloGold Ashanti and De Beers. His expertise spans geology, mine management and operational excellence, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of the operational and strategic priorities shaping Africa’s gold industry.

At Gold Fields, Mokoatle plays a leading role in advancing the South Deep Mine in South Africa – one of the world’s deepest and largest gold mines – as a cornerstone of the company’s long-term growth strategy. Current initiatives include the South of Wrench development and renewable energy projects designed to improve operational efficiency while supporting Gold Fields’ 2026 production guidance of 2.4 to 2.6 million ounces.

“Benford Mokoatle brings more than two decades of operational and leadership experience in Africa’s gold mining industry. His contribution will be instrumental in ensuring AMW 2026 delivers meaningful outcomes for the sector,” said Rachelle Kasongo, Event Director, AMW. “As African producers expand output to capitalize on strong global demand, his expertise will help shape the program and strengthen dialogue on the policies, partnerships and investment needed to support long-term growth.”

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.