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New African Magazine of United Kingdom (UK) recognizes Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Rasha Kelej as One of ‘100 Most Influential Africans 2025’ for Transforming Healthcare and Empowering Women & Girls, shares Recognition with Presidents of Angola, South Africa, and Ghana

Source: APO

  • The President of Angola, H.E. JOÃOLOURENÇO, The President of South Africa, H.E. CYRIL RAMAPHOSA, The President of Ghana, H.E. JOHN MAHAMA and Merck Foundation CEO, Dr. Rasha Kelej recognized amongst the  100 Most influential Africans 2025 by New African Magazine, UK.
  • Dr. Rasha Kelej, Merck Foundation CEO recognized for the seventh consecutive year as one of 100 most Influential African. 2025 recognition is by New African Magazine of UK, along side president of Angola, Ghana and South Africa.
  • The list of 100 Most Influential Africans 2025is made up of prominent African Leaders in different sectors such as Public office, Business, Technology, Change Makers, Thinkers and Opinion Shapers, Creative and Sports influencing the communities and sectors with their inspirational work.

Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign has been recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Africans, by the prestigious New African Magazine (UK).

The special edition spotlights the individuals shaping Africa’s present and future. The publication’s correspondents and collaborators have scanned the length and breadth of the continent to identify 2025’s human gems—leaders, innovators, and change-makers whose influence and impact continue to drive transformation across Africa and beyond.

Speaking about the recognition, Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation expressed, “I am deeply honoured to be recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Africans by New African (UK), and to be named alongside the esteemed leaders of our continent, including the Presidents of Angola, Ghana, and South Africa, as well as many other change makers. Congratulations to all.”

She further emphasized, “This recognition is very special to me, as it acknowledges my continued efforts to build and strengthen healthcare capacity, empower women living with infertility, and support girl education through our Merck Foundation programs. It only encourage me and motivate me and my team to strengthen our commitment to continue my efforts to create lasting, equitable impact across Africa for generations to come.”

Under Dr. Rasha Kelej ‘s  leadership, Merck Foundation has been running impactful programs like their “Scholaship Program for Healthcare Providers” to transform the patient care landscape and improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in Africa and beyond; their signature “More Than a Mother” movement that she created in 2015 to build quality and equitable Reproductive and Fertility Care Capacity, Break Infertility Stigma, Raise Awareness about Infertility Prevention & Male Infertility, and Support Girl Education; and “Educating Linda” program to support girl education.

Over the past 13 years, Dr. Rasha Kelej has worked closely with more than 33 African and Asian First Ladies as Ambassadors of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” in their countries, to lead their programs and key partners including Ministries of Health, Information, Education & Gender, Academia, Policymakers, International Fertility Societies, Media and Art from over 52 countries.

“I am delighted to share that we have provided 2500 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries, across 44 critical and underserved medical specialties. I am proud that many of our alumni have become, or are on their way to becoming, the first specialists in their respective countries. We are building a lasting legacy in Africa.” She added.

Through the “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” campaign which is a strong movement that aims to empower infertile and childless women through access to information, education, health and change of mindset, Dr. Kelej has been working closely with partners to create a culture shift and transforming fertility care and women health landscape in public health nationwide in 42 African and Asia countries. 

“We have provided out of the 2500 scholarships, 770 scholarships for healthcare providers from 42 countries, of clinical training of Fertility care and Embryology, and One year PG Diploma and two-year Master Degree in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Psychiatry, Women’s Health, Biotechnology of Human Assisted Reproduction & Embryology, Urology, Laparoscopic Surgical skills and Family Medicine. These specialists are critical to advance quality and equitable women health in general and reproductive and fertility care in particular.” Senator, Rasha Kelej explained.

Moreover, Merck Foundation has also supported childless women by helping them start their own small businesses through “Empowering  Berna” program.

“It is all about giving every woman the respect and support she deserves to lead a fulfilling life, with or without a child, she added.

Moreover, Dr. Kelej is a strong advocate for Education as one of the most critical areas of women empowerment. Therefore, in partnership with African First Ladies, Merck Foundation provided year to date more than 1200 annual scholarships to high-performing and underprivileged African schoolgirls from 19 countries, enabling them to complete their studies and reach their  potential.  Countries such as;  across several African countries, including Botswana, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Tanzania, Togo, Zambia, Zimbabwe and other.

Dr. Rasha Kelej is a trailblazer whose vision and dedication have transformed lives across Africa. She is celebrated for her pioneering initiatives that tackle some of the continent’s most pressing social and health challenges like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, ending child marriage, gender-based violence & female genital mutilation, and advancing women’s empowerment.

Through her remarkable leadership, Dr. Kelej has united the media, fashion, and arts communities to be the voice of the voiceless. Her unique initiatives including a Pan-African TV program, Health Media Training, Annual Awards for best media, song, fashion design and film, awareness songs, children’s storybooks, and animations films have created a culture shift in communities.

A true visionary, Dr. Kelej inspires and educates over 8.5 million social media followers, keeping them engaged with empowering and awareness content. Her tireless commitment, innovative approach, and unwavering passion continue to reshape the social and health landscape, leaving a legacy of hope, empowerment, and progress across Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of for Africa.

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For more information on Merck Foundation, please visit: www.Merck-Foundation.com

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Afreximbank backs Heirs Energies with $750-million facility, boosting Nigeria’s domestic energy capacity

Source: APO

African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) and Heirs Energies Limited have announced a landmark US$750-million financing partnership designed to optimise Heirs Energy’s capital structure and unlock critical liquidity to support its working capital requirement as it pursues its ambitious field development programme. The investment is expected to significantly transform Nigeria’s domestic energy capacity as demand rises.

Signed by Dr. George Elombi, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, and Mr. Tony O. Elumelu CFR, Chairman of Heirs Energies Limited, the dual-tranche senior secured reserve-based lending facility, concluded during a ceremony in Abuja, will support Heirs Energies’ accelerated growth strategy as the company enters a new phase of expansion seeking to increase, and sustain, its oil and gas production.

Afreximbank was appointed the Mandated Lead Arranger, Facility Agent, and Security Agent under the financing which is seen as an important milestone in strategic collaboration between Afreximbank and Heirs Energies.

In comments following the signing, Dr. Elombi highlighted the partnership as a testament to Afreximbank’s commitment to value creation and the empowerment of African entrepreneurs.  

“Without investments, such as the one being provided to Heirs Energies, many fossil fuel-dependent African economies would face dire economic challenges,” said Dr. Elombi. “Our aim, among others, is to empower the African entrepreneur. Our core strength is in the value of the partnerships we continue to forge.”

He lauded Mr. Elumelu’s steadfast support for Afreximbank’s activities, adding that such partnerships have been instrumental in helping position Afreximbank as a significant cog in unlocking Africa’s economic transformation and other goals.

The President reaffirmed Afreximbank’s determination to see the African Energy Bank project to fruition, saying, “we should get to higher strides and get the Energy Bank so we can move most of the energy portfolio there. We will put tremendous capital in it to be as bold and as innovative as Afreximbank”.

Dr. Elombi added that Afreximbank was willing to work with Heirs Holdings and its affiliated companies expand to other West African countries such as Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, and to other parts of the continent. “Our aim is to spread and support the domination of the African brand across Africa.”

Commenting on the transaction, Chairman, Heirs Energies Limited Mr. Tony O. Elumelu, CFR noted: “This transaction is a powerful affirmation of what African enterprise can achieve when backed by disciplined execution and long-term African capital. It reflects the successful journey Heirs Energies has taken – from turnaround to growth – and reinforces our belief in African capital working for African businesses. This is Africa financing Africa’s future.”

Heirs Energies plays a pivotal role in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, where crude oil remains a resource of critical national and international importance.

The partnership between Afreximbank and Heirs Energies Limited dates to 2021, when the company, then known as Heirs Oil & Gas, completed its landmark acquisition of a 45-per cent participating interest in the OML 17 Joint Venture with a US$ 1.1-billion transaction financed by a consortium of international and local banks led by Afreximbank, marking one of the most significant indigenous energy acquisitions in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

Afreximbank participated with up to US$ 250 million of that financing, underscoring its commitment to Africa’s energy sector development and its mandate to promote intra-African trade and the growth of African-owned enterprises.

Since that acquisition, the crude oil production has increased from approximately 25,000 barrels per day to an average of 50,000 barrels per day, in addition to significant associated and non-associated gas production. Heirs Energies also achieved first gas from the Agbada Non-Associated Gas Plant on 21 November 2021, just months after taking over the asset which had been under construction for over 10 years under the previous operator.

Currently, Heirs Energies is the top gas supplier in the Eastern Domestic Network and supplies gas to three major power plants, collectively contributing approximately 15 per cent of Nigeria’s installed electricity generation capacity.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

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

Heirs Energies Limited
Chidimma Ugbojiaku
Head, Corporate Communications
Email: Chidimma.Ugbojiaku@Heirsenergies.com

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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 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). 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

About Heirs Energies Limited:
Heirs Energies Limited is Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company, committed to meeting Africa’s unique energy needs while aligning with global sustainability goals.   Having a strong focus on innovation, environmental responsibility, and community development, Heirs Energies leads in the evolving energy landscape and contribute to a more prosperous Africa. 

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Remarks by Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, during the Ad Hoc Summit of the Regional Oversight Mechanism of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Region and the International Conference

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellency, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Chairperson of the Regional Oversight Mechanism of the PSC Framework;
Your Excellencies, Signatory Countries of the PSC Framework;
Your Excellencies, Representatives of Guarantor Institutions and countries;

Your Excellency,

I would like to start by conveying the apology of your dear brother, His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa who was not able to travel in person due to logistical constraints.

On behalf of His Excellency, President Cyril Ramaphosa, allow me to express South Africa’s appreciation to President Yoweri Museveni for convening this urgent Ad-hoc Summit of the Regional Oversight Mechanism for the Democratic Republic of the Congo to ensure that the countries in the Great Lakes region, and guarantor institutions and countries continue to work as a collective to find solutions to the ongoing security challenges in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.  

Your Excellencies,

It is regrettable that the eastern DRC continues to experience persistent violence by armed groups, both Congolese and uninvited external forces.

This situation persists despite the existence of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework, the SADC-EAC and the AU-led peace initiatives, and other external peace initiatives which are all aimed primarily to deal with the scourge of armed conflicts and their impact on the people of the eastern DRC and its immediate region.

The actions of armed groups, particularly the M23 and FDLR, continue to undermine the PSC Framework and other ongoing peace processes. The territorial expansion of the M23 including the recent seizure of Uvira, the establishment of parallel administrations in captured and controlled areas, and the violation of human rights and the resultant humanitarian crisis, negate efforts towards peace and opportunities for regional economic development.

The current security situation in the eastern DRC requires immediate action through inclusive, genuine, and direct dialogue, amongst all Congolese and all parties to the conflict. We must act as a collective to prevent any further regional instability. It is for this reason that South Africa strongly urges for the need to return to the basics. We need to ask and honestly answer the question of why, despite several agreements on the resolution of the eastern DRC security situation, are we failing to achieve peace and lasting security.

Peace would only be achieved through an inclusive process that addresses holistically the root causes and drivers of the conflict in the eastern DRC and the region. In our view, the lack of implementation of the various agreements by all parties is a major challenge.  If we are serious about achieving lasting peace, for a start, we must ensure that all parties must fulfill their commitments made as signatories to the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework.

For the part of the DRC, it is vital that the government continues to implement all its national commitments, especially on security sector reform and governance including building professional, accountable and sustainable security forces – both in the defence  and police service. These forces should be able to discharge their mandate in restoring State authority and in defending the territorial integrity of the DRC.

Neighbouring countries must also implement their regional commitments, especially not supporting destabilising armed groups, not interfering in the internal affairs of neighbouring countries, and respecting each other’s sovereignty.

In this regard, we recommend that the Regional Oversight Mechanism enhance its role in the implementation of commitments by the DRC and PSC Framework signatories. The Chair of the ROM must also engage actively with the DRC and its immediate neighbours to rebuild trust and normalise bilateral relations and cooperation. These undertakings should be seen as complementing not competing with other peace efforts in line with the decisions to revitalise the PSC Framework.

Excellencies,

The role of the Continental Organisations such as the African Union – which is one of the Guarantors of the PSC Framework remains critical in addressing peace and security challenges confronting us. It is our expectation that the unified African-led mediation efforts can contribute towards normalising relations between the DRC and Rwanda, and restore peace in the eastern DRC and the Great Lakes region in general. 

As I conclude, South Africa appeals to the conflicting parties in the DRC to demonstrate political will and selfless leadership that this occasion requires. 

The parties must fulfil their previous commitments to establish a permanent, effective and verifiable ceasefire; they must engage in inclusive dialogue that will lead to peace and reconciliation; and they must put the interest of the people of the DRC first. 

Peace will endure when the people of the DRC unite for the purpose of building one Congolese nation and redirect their collective efforts towards the economic development of the DRC and the region. 

I thank you.

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Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Meets Malawi Minister of Finance

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha| 22 December 2025

HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi met on Monday with HE Member of Parliament, Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Development, and Special Envoy of the Republic of Malawi to the State of Qatar Joseph Mwanamvekha, who is currently visiting the country. 
During the meeting, cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and enhance them were reviewed. 

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Visitors flock to Durban as city experiences bumper festive season

Source: Government of South Africa

Visitors flock to Durban as city experiences bumper festive season

The eThekwini Municipality is experiencing a bumper festive season, with visitors to the city contributing an economic boom of some R6 billion to the city’s coffers.

This according to Municipal Mayor Cyril Xaba, who briefed the media on Monday.

“From December 1 to date, we have received 490 152 visitors. Hotel occupancy currently stands at 70%, with a direct visitor spend of R1.8 billion and an estimated contribution of over R6 billion to the city’s GDP. These indicators confirm strong festive season performance and sustained tourism demand.  

“While Durban is well known for its warm beaches, many visitors have also come to enjoy a variety of attraction and events hosted across the city. Total attendance at these signature events currently stands at 83 000, with an additional 61 000 attendees expected,” Xaba said.

He noted that the festive season is showing a “clear and measurable uplift in tourism activity across Durban”.

“Strong attendance at signature events increased accommodation occupancy, expanded tour operations, cruise passenger arrivals and high beachfront usage all point to sustained festive demand.

“Durban is delivering a vibrant, safe and well-coordinated festive season, translating into strong visitor numbers, meaningful economic impact and renewed confidence in the city as South Africa’s leading summer destination,” Xaba added.

Since the beginning of December, more than 873 000 visitors visited beaches.

On 16 December alone, some 201 000 visitors visited the beachfront, “making it the busiest day in recent history”.

“Despite this unprecedented crowd, the city is proud to report zero drownings and no major incidents on the day. This reflects the dedication and professionalism of our staff including lifeguards, emergency and disaster management staff, as well as law enforcement agencies.

“It is exciting to note that Durban is experiencing a bumper festive season last seen before the COVID-19 pandemic. This is evident in the significant number of visitors who have already descended on our shores ahead of Christmas and New Year’s Eve,” Xaba said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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APO Group Celebrates Multiple Global and Regional Industry Awards in 2025, Cementing its Status as the Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy

Source: APO

APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading multi-award-winning, pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, has wrapped up 2025 with an exceptional collection of prestigious industry awards, reinforcing its position as a trusted communications partner for organisations shaping Africa’s narrative on the global stage.

This recognition reflects APO Group’s consistent delivery of high-impact, results-driven communications campaigns, its deep understanding of African markets, and its ability to bridge Africa and the world through credible, compelling storytelling.

Key industry recognition in 2025:

  • APO Group was awarded Gold at the 2025 SABRE Awards (https://apo-opa.co/4sb6zkv), in addition to five finalist placements. One of the most respected benchmarks of excellence in public relations worldwide, the SABRE recognition demonstrates APO Group’s strength in strategy-led storytelling, reputation management, and measurable communications outcomes.
  • At the 2025 Davos Communications Awards (https://apo-opa.co/49tj6rh), APO Group secured both Gold and Bronze honours, recognising excellence in strategic communications and campaign execution. These awards highlight the company’s ability to deliver globally competitive work rooted in strong local insight, particularly for complex, multi-market African campaigns.
  • APO Group was named Africa’s Leading PR Agency – 2025 at the Brands Review Magazine Awards (https://apo-opa.co/3Y9HPvn), a distinction that recognises outstanding leadership, influence, and performance across Africa. This award reflects APO Group’s scale, reputation, and sustained impact in shaping narratives for its clients operating on the continent.
  • In South Africa, APO Group was named Best Public Relations & Media Consultancy Agency of the Year – 2025 by World Business Outlook (https://apo-opa.co/49na1kK), reaffirming its leadership position in one of Africa’s most competitive communications markets and its role in setting professional standards for the industry.

Commenting on the achievements, Bas Wijne, Chief Executive Officer of APO Group, said: “These awards are a powerful endorsement of the work our teams deliver every day and the trust our clients place in us. They reflect our continued investment in innovation, the quality of our service, and our ability to deliver communications solutions that are both strategically sound and culturally relevant. Most importantly, they recognise the dedication, creativity, and professionalism of our people across Africa and beyond, who are committed to elevating Africa’s stories.”

As APO Group looks to 2026, the company remains focused on setting the benchmark for excellence in African public relations and communications. Combining deep African expertise with global best practice, APO Group delivers communications that support market entry, reputation management, and commercial growth for multinational organisations expanding into Africa, as well as African companies scaling across the continent.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

Media contact: 
marie@apo-opa.com 

About APO Group: 
Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) is the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact both on the continent and globally.   

Our commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including a PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award and multiple PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards. In 2023, we were named the Leading Public Relations Firm Africa and the Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa in the World Business Outlook Awards, and the Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy of the Year South Africa in 2024 in the same awards. In 2025, Brands Review Magazine acknowledged us as the Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa for the second consecutive year. They also named us the Best PR Agency and the Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa in 2024. Additionally, in 2025, we were honoured with the Gold distinction for Best PR Campaign and Bronze in the Special Event category at the Davos Communications Awards. 

APO Group’s esteemed clientele, which includes global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, the UNDP, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa’s Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape. With a multicultural team across Africa, we offer unmatched, truly pan-African insights, expertise, and reach across the continent. APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences.  

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GBV command centre ready to serve 24/7

Source: Government of South Africa

GBV command centre ready to serve 24/7

The Department of Social Development’s Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC) has reiterated its commitment to remaining open for 24 hours a day and seven days a week during this festive season.

The centre provides free, confidential and immediate support to survivors of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

“The GBVCC offers online trauma counselling, telephonic support, referrals to social workers, shelters, psychosocial services and law enforcement, ensuring that survivors receive timely assistance when they need it most.

“As South Africa enters the festive season, the department urges communities to remain vigilant and to report all forms of GBVF, noting that this period is historically associated with an increase in cases,” the department said.

The centre’s manager, Carol Tladi, noted that as the festive season ramps up, women and children face heightened risk.

“Our data consistently show that cases of gender-based violence increase during the festive season.

“Alcohol abuse, as well as the use of legal and illegal substances, remains one of the key drivers contributing to these incidents,” she explained.

Communities are urged to “play an active role in preventing violence, supporting survivors and reporting perpetrators”.

“GBVF is everyone’s responsibility. Help is available. Speak out,” the department said.

For assistance, contact the centre through the following means:

  • Call: 0800 428 428
  • Dial: *120*7867# from any cellphone
  • Send a “Please Call Me” to *120*7867# – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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African Mining Week Returns to Cape Town, 14–16 October 2026

Source: APO

African Mining Week (AMW), Africa’s premier mining forum, returns to the Cape Town International Convention Center from 14–16 October 2026, under the theme, “Mining the Future: Critical Resources, Sustainability and Community Development.” The event will convene mining companies, investors, policymakers and technology providers to discuss Africa’s evolving mining landscape, from strategic mineral resources and digital innovation to local beneficiation and community development. AMW 2026 aims to connect international investors with Africa’s most promising mining opportunities as the continent positions itself at the forefront of the global energy transition and critical minerals supply.

The 2026 edition will feature a multi-track program and exhibition space, including high-level panel discussions, technical workshops and exclusive networking sessions. Delegates will engage on investment opportunities across Africa’s mining value chain, building on the success of AMW 2025, which attracted 1,500 delegates, over 85 speakers, 315 companies and representatives from 22 countries.

As African countries push for local value addition, mineral beneficiation and job creation, AMW 2026 will showcase national strategies and policies shaping investment flows. Mining ministers and government delegations from Ghana, South Africa, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Egypt, Zimbabwe, Sierra Leone, Nigeria and The Gambia are expected to update the industry on new regulations and mining codes, including Ghana’s updated gold mining framework and South Africa’s Mineral Resources Development Bill.

With Africa holding 30% of the world’s critical minerals – essential for the clean energy transition – AMW 2026 will connect international investors with developers, owners and traders of lithium, cobalt, copper, rare earths and other strategic resources. Delegates will also explore how digital technologies are transforming mining operations, from accelerating mineral discovery to improving efficiency and sustainability. Building on DRC Minister of Mines Louis Watum Kabamba’s remarks at AMW 2025 on shortening discovery timelines from years to months, AMW 2026 highlights digital innovation as a key driver of Africa’s mining transformation.

The summit will also tackle crucial topics shaping Africa’s mining sector, including the formalization of artisanal and small-scale mining, energy security, environmental sustainability, infrastructure development, women and youth empowerment, human capital development and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

“African Mining Week 2026 is more than an event – it’s a catalyst for Africa’s mining transformation,” states Rachelle Kasongo, Project & Events Manager at Energy Capital & Power. “From critical minerals and sustainable practices to digital innovation and local beneficiation, AMW provides a platform for governments, investors and industry leaders to come together, accelerate projects and drive meaningful economic and community impact across the continent.”

African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2026 conference from October 12-16 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

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

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Deputy Ministers visit Brits water treatment works

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy Ministers visit Brits water treatment works

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo and Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, are conducting an oversight visit to the Brits Water Treatment Works in the North West.

The Brits Water Treatment Works is a critical infrastructure project of the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) aimed at strengthening water provision for the Madibeng Local Municipality and surrounding areas.

“The Brits Water Treatment Works is a key bulk water supply infrastructure project, funded by the Department of Water and Sanitation through the Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG), at a value of over R80 million and implemented by the Magalies Water Board,” the DWS said in a statement.

The project is part of government efforts to “support Water Services Authorities in meeting their constitutional obligation to provide safe and reliable water”.

“Once fully operational, the upgraded Plant will increase its treatment capacity from 60 to 80 megalitres per day, improving the treatment of raw water, strengthening pumping and pipeline systems and enhancing the distribution network up to bulk reservoirs,” the statement said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) announces new dates and opens registration for inaugural congress set for February 2026

Source: APO

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Africa (https://FSC.org) is pleased to announce that registration is now open for its Inaugural Zamba Heritage Initiative Congress, rescheduled to February 10–12, 2026, at the JW Marriott Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya. Originally planned for September 2025, the Congress was postponed to ensure broader participation and alignment with key continental priorities.

Under the theme “From Commitment to Action: Africa’s Forest Legacy for All Forever,” the Congress will convene government leaders, private sector actors, civil society, and development partners to accelerate action for sustainable forest management, restoration, and inclusive green growth across Africa.

Key Highlights:

  • High-level dialogues on climate, biodiversity, and sustainable development.
  • Launch of innovative forest finance mechanisms and investment opportunities.
  • Regional cooperation to advance commitments under international and continental frameworks.

Registration is now open at : https://apo-opa.co/497jfAs

Join us in shaping Africa’s forest future.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Forest Stewardship Council.

Media Contact:
Israel Bionyi
Senior Regional Communications Manager
FSC Africa
i.bionyi@fsc.org

FSC Africa
www.Africa.FSC.org
T: +49 (0) 228 367 66 0 
F: +49 (0) 228 367 66 65 

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