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News consumption trends change face of journalism

Source: Government of South Africa

News consumption trends change face of journalism

The impact of technology and rising uptake of social media are making an indelible mark on the landscape of journalism, shifting South African audiences from passive consumers to active participants in the news cycle.

Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong on Wednesday said audiences are developing new “news habits” that are transforming the role of journalists and media institutions.

“The good deal of what we know about our world, we know because of journalism,” Morolong said.

Speaking at the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) Funders’ Breakfast in Hyde Park, Johannesburg, Morolong said technology, smarter phones and faster internet — coupled with the rise of multinational social media platforms — pull audiences away from local content and shrink revenue streams for news organisations.

“Audiences are also increasingly involved in both curating media for sharing and in commenting, or in other ways augmenting the media they share,” he said.

He warned that digital news consumption, particularly via mobile phones and social media, is fragmenting audiences, weakening traditional income sources.

Printed newspapers — from community titles to established publications — are closing or scaling down at a considerable pace, while community publishers are increasingly struggling to survive.

“While South African news organisations are developing some new business models and income streams that might sustain independent news journalism into the future, this is not happening fast enough or across enough platforms to forestall a likely decline in media diversity, despite the affordances of mobile Internet,” Morolong said.

In the midst of these challenges, Morolong acknowledged the role of funders and partners in keeping community media alive.

“… [Let me extend] government’s deep appreciation for the vital role you play in building a vibrant and sustainable community media landscape.

“Today, we recognise your unwavering commitment and acknowledge the critical role that you, our funders and partners, have made in advancing media development and diversity in our nation.”

He emphasised that while the MDDA often measures its success through the number of community stations supported, the voices amplified and the reach achieved, the true foundation of that impact is anchored in partnerships.

“Behind every one of those measures lies a simple truth — none of it would be possible without partnerships,” he said.

The MDDA is a South African statutory body established in 2003 (Act No. 14 of 2002) to promote media development and diversity. It provides grant funding, training and research support to community and small commercial media, fostering a vibrant, innovative, sustainable, and people-centered sector, particularly in historically disadvantaged communities.

Changing times

Morolong highlighted the financial strain facing the community media csector, noting that the MDDA relies on limited public funds, which must be spread across many beneficiaries.

As a result, many community media outlets operate on tight margins, grappling with high operational costs that too often lead to unsustainability, particularly for smaller projects that struggle to meet regulatory requirements, such as audited financial statements.

Morolong said that 30% funding for community media is now government policy.

“These community radio stations, television broadcasters and print publications exist because of the ecosystem we have collectively built.

“They provide a platform for diverse perspectives, echoing the voices of the citizens they serve and facilitating the fundamental right to freedom of expression.”

He stressed that community media plays a direct role in strengthening democracy by improving access to information and contributing to better social and economic conditions.

With the first community station licensed in February 1995, the sector has grown into a powerful platform reflecting South Africa’s diversity.

Today, stations broadcast in a range of indigenous languages, including Nama and Khilobedu, ensuring that stories are told in languages that resonate most with communities.

Together, they reach an estimated four million listeners across all nine provinces, acting as a vital bridge for both information and culture.

Morolong said the sector’s resilience is supported by key industry bodies such as the National Community Radio Forum, the National Association of Broadcasters and the South African Community Radio Organisation, which continue to guide its growth.

Opening the event, MDDA representative Qondile Khedama underscored the importance of collaboration, telling delegates that the agency’s progress is rooted in strong stakeholder relationships.

“Without interaction with you, the MDDA would not be where it is today. Our interaction with you shows that you are one of the critical stakeholders,” he said.

Khedama called for robust discussions and forward-looking plans to ensure the sustainability of community media, stressing its critical role in local development.

Also addressing the gathering, Sandile Nene, Acting Deputy Director-General for Content Processing and Dissemination at the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), acknowledged stakeholder support and reiterated government’s financial commitment through the 30 percent grant.

Nene reminded delegates that South Africa operates within a three-tier broadcasting system and that the MDDA was established as a statutory body to promote media development and diversity.

The MDDA Funders’ Breakfast brought together representatives from community radio stations, newspapers and government, creating a platform not only for reflection, but for charting a path forward. – SAnews.gov.za

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O Enviado Francês para o Clima, Benoît Faraco, participa na African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, à medida que a França aprofunda a parceria energética com África

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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Benoît Faraco, Embaixador para as Negociações Climáticas, Energia Descarbonizada e Prevenção de Riscos Climáticos no Ministério da Europa e dos Negócios Estrangeiros francês, participará na African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, agendada para 12 a 16 de outubro na Cidade do Cabo. Espera-se que Faraco envolva decisores políticos africanos, investidores e líderes da indústria na abordagem em evolução da França à diplomacia climática e na sua estratégia de investimento energético em todo o continente.

A sua participação surge num momento em que os países africanos procuram mobilizar capital significativo para expandir o acesso à energia e desenvolver nova capacidade de produção em energias renováveis, gás natural e combustíveis verdes emergentes, uma vez que mais de 600 milhões de pessoas em todo o continente ainda não têm acesso à eletricidade. Ao mesmo tempo, a França está a reforçar o seu envolvimento com os mercados energéticos africanos através de uma estratégia renovada para 2026 centrada no financiamento climático, parcerias de infraestruturas e cooperação industrial a longo prazo.

A transição energética de África representa uma das maiores oportunidades inexploradas a nível global. O continente possui um potencial solar estimado em 482 000 GW, cerca de 180 000 TWh de potencial eólico anual e aproximadamente 10% dos recursos hidroelétricos globais, dos quais quase 90% permanecem por desenvolver. África está também a posicionar-se como um futuro centro de hidrogénio verde, com uma capacidade de produção potencial estimada em 30–60 milhões de toneladas por ano até 2050. Neste contexto, a França está a passar cada vez mais de um envolvimento ao nível de projetos para o apoio a sistemas energéticos integrados que ligam o desenvolvimento do abastecimento interno aos mercados regionais e orientados para a exportação.

O investimento francês no setor das energias renováveis em África continua a expandir-se através de uma combinação de financiamento público, empréstimos concessionais e participação do setor privado. A Agence Française de Développement (AFD) desempenha um papel central na ampliação da implantação, reduzindo o risco para os investidores privados e apoiando as infraestruturas de transmissão e da rede. Através do seu Programa Africano de Expansão das Energias Renováveis, a AFD disponibiliza entre 20 e 100 milhões de euros por projeto, apoiando desenvolvimentos solares, eólicos e geotérmicos em vários mercados, incluindo a Mauritânia, a Tanzânia, o Quénia e o Uganda.

Para além do financiamento, as empresas francesas de energia continuam a figurar entre os promotores internacionais mais ativos no setor energético africano. A EDF Power Solutions tem como objetivo quintuplicar a sua carteira de energias renováveis no continente entre 2024 e 2026, com a ambição de atingir 3 GW de capacidade instalada a curto prazo.

A ENGIE continua a expandir a sua presença em projetos eólicos, solares, de dessalinização, armazenamento em baterias e hidrogénio verde, enquanto a TotalEnergies está a avançar com desenvolvimentos energéticos integrados em mercados como Moçambique, África do Sul, Líbia, Mauritânia, Marrocos, Ruanda e Uganda – refletindo a crescente presença da França no panorama mais alargado da diversificação energética de África.

«O potencial de energia renovável de África representa uma oportunidade não só para as empresas francesas, mas também para reforçar a segurança energética a longo prazo da Europa através do comércio de eletricidade e combustíveis verdes», afirmou NJ Ayuk, Presidente Executivo da Câmara Africana de Energia. «A AEW proporciona uma plataforma fundamental para alinhar estratégias de investimento, harmonizar abordagens políticas e construir parcerias mutuamente benéficas entre África e a França.»

Para além das energias renováveis, a França está a apoiar o desenvolvimento a longo prazo da energia nuclear em toda a África, como parte de um mix energético diversificado. Como um dos principais produtores mundiais de energia nuclear, está a trabalhar para reforçar a capacidade institucional e técnica através de iniciativas como o programa INSC África, que apoia países como a África do Sul, o Egito, o Gana, o Quénia, Marrocos e a Nigéria no desenvolvimento de quadros regulamentares, sistemas de segurança e formação da mão-de-obra.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

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Presidency clarifies Zimbabwe visit, urges law enforcement to act without fear

Source: Government of South Africa

Presidency clarifies Zimbabwe visit, urges law enforcement to act without fear

President Cyril Ramaphosa has clarified that he had no prior knowledge of an individual of interest to law enforcement who was reportedly present during his recent working visit to Zimbabwe.

This follows reports that surfaced after the President’s visit, which took place on Sunday at the invitation of his counterpart Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Briefing media on Wednesday in Cape Town, Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the President travelled to Zimbabwe on Sunday at the invitation of his counterpart, Emmerson Mnangagwa, for discussions on bilateral relations and regional matters.

Magwenya said the visit underscored the deeply historical relationship between the two countries, rooted in their shared struggles against colonialism and apartheid, as well as strong trade ties. In 2025, South African exports to Zimbabwe reached approximately US$4.3 billion, largely driven by agricultural products and machinery.

During the visit, the two leaders held discussions in an informal setting at Mnangagwa’s farm, where Ramaphosa also sought insight into initiatives supporting local farmers in surrounding areas.

However, the Presidency noted “with concern” reports that an individual wanted by law enforcement was present during the visit.

“President Ramaphosa had no prior knowledge of who will be present during the visit nor was he familiar with the said individual. The President flew to Zimbabwe for a meeting with his counterpart and nothing else,” Magwenya said.

He added that the President supports ongoing investigations, urging law enforcement agencies to pursue the matter “with no fear or hesitation”.

Water crisis response intensified

Magwenya also provided an update on the National Water Crisis Committee (WATERCOM), established earlier this year and chaired by the President to coordinate responses to water supply challenges.

The committee brings together key departments including Water and Sanitation, National Treasury, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Human Settlements, Public Works and Infrastructure, Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, as well as the South African Police Service.

At a technical level, the structure is led by the Director-General in the Presidency, Phindile Baleni.

WATERCOM is overseeing the implementation of a National Water Action Plan aimed at addressing supply disruptions and accelerating reforms across government.

The plan focuses on improving service delivery in priority areas, reforming local government water systems, unlocking infrastructure investment, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and tackling corruption and criminality in the sector, including the misuse of water tankers.

Engagements on the plan have already taken place with provinces and municipalities, with further consultations planned with business, labour and civil society. An advisory group of water experts from academia and other institutions is also being established.

May programme

Meanwhile, the Presidency outlined a busy programme for President Ramaphosa in May.

On Thursday, the President will visit the South32 Hillside Aluminium smelter in Richards Bay to mark 30 years of operations. The facility, the largest aluminium smelter in the southern hemisphere, supports an estimated 29,000 jobs and has contributed around R35 billion to the economy over the past decade.

On 12 May, Ramaphosa will officially open the Africa Travel Indaba in Durban, a major platform for tourism investment and collaboration across the continent.

He is also expected to address the BlackRock Infrastructure Investment Conference on 13 May, engaging global investors on opportunities in energy, transport, digital and water infrastructure.

Other key engagements include responding to oral questions in the National Assembly on 14 May, presiding over the National Orders awards on 19 May, and undertaking a working visit to Botswana on 20 May for the South Africa-Botswana Bi-National Commission.

The Presidency said these engagements form part of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral relations, drive investment, and address domestic challenges facing the country. –SAnews.gov.za

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NCOP to takes ‘Parliament to the People’ programme to the North West

Source: Government of South Africa

NCOP to takes ‘Parliament to the People’ programme to the North West

The National Council of Provinces (NCOP), led by Chairperson Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, will roll out its flagship public participation and oversight programme, Taking Parliament to the People (TPTTP), to the Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality in the North West next week.

The programme will run from 12 to 15 May 2026, under the theme: “Celebrating 30 Years of the Constitution: Deepening Participatory Democracy for Service Delivery.”

TPTTP forms part of the NCOP’s constitutional mandate in terms of Section 72, which requires Parliament to facilitate public participation and conduct its business in an open and transparent manner.

Parliament’s spokesperson Moloto Mothapo said the NCOP, as the House representing provincial and local interests at national level, plays a unique and critical role in strengthening South Africa’s democracy.

“Its core functions include oversight over local and provincial government; cooperative governance and protecting provincial interests. The NCOP acts as a bridge, ensuring that provincial and local concerns inform national policy and legislation,” Mothapo said.

He added that the TPTTP programme creates a direct platform for collaboration by bringing together all three spheres of government to the same table, with the same communities.

“Through the TPTTP, delegates to the NCOP assess service delivery challenges first-hand and hold government leaders accountable. The programme, therefore, is not merely a public dialogue but a constitutional exercise in participatory democracy, accountability and cooperative governance. It brings democracy to life at the grassroots level by enabling citizens to voice their concerns and contribute directly to decision-making processes,” Mothapo explained.

It also provides a unique platform for all three spheres of government, including national, provincial and local, to engage collectively on service delivery challenges and policy matters affecting communities.

The programme will enable communities in the Kenneth Kaunda District and surrounding municipalities to engage directly with government leaders on key service delivery issues.

These include local economic development and job creation; infrastructure maintenance, covering water and sanitation, roads, electricity, human settlements, health, and mining; as well as financial management and governance.

Activities will include public hearings, oversight visits to service delivery hotspots, and direct engagements with permanent delegates to the NCOP, Ministers, Members of Provincial Legislatures (MPLs), and local councillors.– SAnews.gov.za

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French Climate Envoy Benoît Faraco Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 as France Deepens Energy Partnership with Africa

Source: APO – Report:

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Benoît Faraco, Ambassador for Climate Negotiations, Decarbonized Energy and Climate Risk Prevention at the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, will participate in African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, scheduled for October 12–16 in Cape Town. Faraco is expected to engage African policymakers, investors and industry leaders on France’s evolving approach to climate diplomacy and its energy investment strategy across the continent.

His participation comes at a time when African countries are seeking to mobilize significant capital to expand energy access and develop new generation capacity across renewables, natural gas and emerging green fuels, as more than 600 million people across the continent still lack access to electricity. At the same time, France is strengthening its engagement with African energy markets through a renewed 2026 strategy centered on climate finance, infrastructure partnerships and long-term industrial cooperation.

Africa’s energy transition represents one of the largest untapped opportunities globally. The continent holds an estimated 482,000 GW of solar potential, around 180,000 TWh of annual wind potential and roughly 10% of global hydropower resources, of which nearly 90% remains undeveloped. Africa is also positioning itself as a future hub for green hydrogen, with potential production capacity estimated at 30–60 million tons per year by 2050. Against this backdrop, France is increasingly shifting from project-level engagement toward supporting integrated energy systems that link domestic supply development with regional and export-oriented markets.

French investment in Africa’s renewable energy sector continues to expand through a combination of public financing, concessional lending and private sector participation. The Agence Française de Développement (AFD) is playing a central role in scaling deployment, reducing risk for private investors and supporting transmission and grid infrastructure. Through its African Renewable Energy Scale-Up Program, AFD provides between €20 million and €100 million per project, supporting solar, wind and geothermal developments across multiple markets, including Mauritania, Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.

Beyond financing, French energy companies remain among the most active international developers in Africa’s power sector. EDF power solutions is targeting a fivefold increase in its renewable energy portfolio on the continent between 2024 and 2026, with ambitions to reach 3 GW of installed capacity in the near term.

ENGIE continues to expand its presence across wind, solar, desalination, battery storage and green hydrogen projects, while TotalEnergies is advancing integrated energy developments across markets including Mozambique, South Africa, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Rwanda and Uganda – reflecting France’s growing footprint in Africa’s broader energy diversification landscape.

“Africa’s renewable energy potential represents an opportunity not only for French companies, but also for strengthening Europe’s long-term energy security through electricity and green fuel trade,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “AEW provides a key platform for aligning investment strategies, harmonizing policy approaches and building mutually beneficial partnerships between Africa and France.”

Beyond renewables, France is supporting long-term nuclear energy development across Africa as part of a diversified energy mix. As one of the world’s leading nuclear power producers, it is working to strengthen institutional and technical capacity through initiatives such as the INSC Africa program, which supports countries including South Africa, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco and Nigeria in developing regulatory frameworks, safety systems and workforce training.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Radisson Hotel Group leads with Verified Net Zero hotels and highlights Think People, Community, and Planet actions in its 2025 Responsible Business Report

Source: APO – Report:

In a rapidly evolving operating environment shaped by shifting guest expectations, climate risk, and increasing regulatory requirements, sustainability continues to guide the Group’s strategic direction. Radisson Hotel Group (www.RadissonHotels.com) remains committed to supporting careers and communities, as well as achieving Net Zero by 2050. The Group focuses on strengthening the long-term competitiveness of its hotels and owners through sustainability and contributes to the transition toward a low-carbon hospitality sector.

The report highlights how this strategy is being embedded across the business through a structured five-year plan and operational priorities focused on energy efficiency, electrification, renewable energy, and responsible resource use.

A key milestone in 2025 was the launch of the Group’s first Verified Net Zero hotels, establishing a scalable model for reducing emissions across both existing and new properties. These projects demonstrate that meaningful decarbonization can be achieved within operational hotel environments.

The report also provides a transparent view of performance across Radisson Hotel Group’s Think People, Think Community, and Think Planet pillars, translating strategic priorities into measurable outcomes across its global portfolio. This ensures that sustainability remains embedded in decision-making, building trust with guests, owners, partners, and team members, while supporting long-term value creation.

Highlights from the report include:

Think People

People are at the heart of Radisson Hotel Group’s success, with a strong focus on investment in talent development, well-being, and inclusive career growth across its global team of more than 75,000 team members in over 100 countries. The Radisson People Foundation, launched in 2024 to support team members in times of need, assisted more than 250 team members globally. Additional progress includes:

  • 84% team member engagement score, outperforming the industry average by 18%
  • 31% of women in leadership positions, supporting greater gender balance
  • 206 hotels certified by Safehotels, strengthening safety and security for guests and teams

Radisson Hotel Group continues to invest in learning and growth, with its Radisson Academy delivering more than 8.5 million learning hours and 40% of job openings filled internally, reflecting a clear commitment to career progression.

Think Community

The Group continues to create shared value in the wider value chain and communities it is part of through local initiatives and global programs. Its partnership with Just a Drop has helped provide clean water, sanitation, and hygiene access to more than 34,000 people. Further impact in 2025 includes:

  • €890,000 in cash and in-kind donations globally
  • 79,000 volunteer hours contributed by hotel and corporate teams
  • EcoVadis Silver Medal, with 76% of global suppliers assessed, reinforcing responsible sourcing practices

These initiatives support community access to essential resources and bolster the Group’s commitment to ethical and inclusive business practices.

Think Planet

Radisson Hotel Group is transitioning to Net Zero by 2050, focusing on the adoption of sustainable building standards, renewable energy, and resource-efficient hotel operations. The new Verified Net Zero program provides a practical, scalable model for reducing emissions across the hotel portfolio. Key milestones include:

  • 23% reduction in emissions intensity per square meter versus the 2019 baseline
  • 6% reduction in total Scope 1 and 2 emissions versus 2019 (24%), while the portfolio grew by 20%
  • 78 hotels operating on 100% renewable electricity, with aims to continue expansion of renewable energy sourcing

In 2025, the Group opened its first Verified Net Zero Hotels in Manchester City Centre and Oslo City Centre, demonstrating how existing and new hotels can operate with significantly reduced carbon emissions across scopes 1, 2, and 3, and still maintain high guest experience and operational standards.

The 2025 report marks an important step forward in transparency and accountability. It is the Group’s first Responsible Business Report aligned with the European Union’s Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for SMEs (VSME) reporting framework, based on a double materiality approach that identifies and manages key environmental, social, and governance impacts, risks, and opportunities.

To explore how Radisson Hotel Group is making a meaningful impact every day, download the full report here (https://apo-opa.co/49wpLkZ).

– on behalf of Radisson Hotel Group.

Media Contact:
Saadiyah Hendricks,
Director Global Corporate & Area PR and Social Media (MEA, MED, SEAP) 
Saadiyah.hendricks@radissonhotels.com

 Or connect with Radisson Hotels on:
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4uQM0dZ
TikTok: https://apo-opa.co/4nihneU
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/493S6PJ
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4uqOzTx 
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4cSqwaj 
WhatsApp: https://apo-opa.co/4tg8i7u
X: https://apo-opa.co/3QR8psJ

About Radisson Hotel Group:
Radisson Hotel Group is a rapidly expanding international hotel group, operating in EMEA and APAC with more than 1,600 hotels in operation and under development in +100 countries. The Group’s overarching brand promise is Every Moment Matters with a signature Yes I Can! service ethos.

The Radisson brand portfolio includes Radisson Collection, art’otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and Prize by Radisson — brought together under one commercial umbrella brand, Radisson Hotels.

Radisson Rewards (https://apo-opa.co/42iRhhZ) is Radisson Hotel Group’s loyalty program, which delivers an elevated experience that makes Every Moment Matter, counting more than 27 million members. As the most streamlined program in the sector, members enjoy exceptional advantages and can access their benefits from day one across a wide range of hotels in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific.

Radisson Meetings (https://apo-opa.co/3QRR7vA) provides tailored solutions for any event or meeting, including hybrid solutions, placing guests and their needs at the heart of its offer. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional, and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and being uniquely Carbon Compensated.

At Radisson Hotel Group, we care for people, communities, and planet (https://apo-opa.co/3R6AfBg) and aim to be Net Zero by 2050 based on the approved Science Based Targets. With unique solutions such as carbon-compensated Radisson Meetings, we make sustainable hotel stays easy. To facilitate sustainable travel choices, all our hotels are becoming verified on Hotel Sustainability Basics.

The health and safety of guests and team members remain a top priority for Radisson Hotel Group. All properties across the Group’s portfolio are subject to health and safety requirements, ensuring we always care for our guests and team members.

For more information, visit our corporate website (https://apo-opa.co/48KPB4v).

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Benoît Faraco, envoyé spécial français pour le climat, participera à l’African Energy Week 2026 alors que la France renforce son partenariat énergétique avec l’Afrique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Benoît Faraco, ambassadeur chargé des négociations climatiques, de l’énergie décarbonée et de la prévention des risques climatiques au ministère français de l’Europe et des Affaires étrangères, participera à l’African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, prévue du 12 au 16 octobre au Cap. M. Faraco devrait échanger avec les décideurs politiques, les investisseurs et les dirigeants d’entreprise africains sur l’évolution de l’approche française en matière de diplomatie climatique et sur sa stratégie d’investissement énergétique à travers le continent.

Sa participation intervient à un moment où les pays africains cherchent à mobiliser des capitaux importants pour élargir l’accès à l’énergie et développer de nouvelles capacités de production dans les énergies renouvelables, le gaz naturel et les carburants verts émergents, alors que plus de 600 millions de personnes sur le continent n’ont toujours pas accès à l’électricité. Parallèlement, la France renforce son engagement auprès des marchés énergétiques africains grâce à une stratégie 2026 renouvelée, axée sur le financement climatique, les partenariats en matière d’infrastructures et la coopération industrielle à long terme.

La transition énergétique de l’Afrique représente l’une des plus grandes opportunités inexploitées à l’échelle mondiale. Le continent recèle un potentiel solaire estimé à 482 000 GW, un potentiel éolien annuel d’environ 180 000 TWh et environ 10 % des ressources hydroélectriques mondiales, dont près de 90 % restent inexploitées. L’Afrique se positionne également comme une future plaque tournante de l’hydrogène vert, avec une capacité de production potentielle estimée à 30–60 millions de tonnes par an d’ici 2050. Dans ce contexte, la France s’éloigne progressivement d’un engagement au niveau des projets pour se tourner vers le soutien de systèmes énergétiques intégrés qui relient le développement de l’approvisionnement national aux marchés régionaux et orientés vers l’exportation.

Les investissements français dans le secteur des énergies renouvelables en Afrique continuent de se développer grâce à une combinaison de financements publics, de prêts concessionnels et de participation du secteur privé. L’Agence française de développement (AFD) joue un rôle central dans l’accélération du déploiement, la réduction des risques pour les investisseurs privés et le soutien aux infrastructures de transport et de réseau. Par le biais de son programme « African Renewable Energy Scale-Up », l’AFD apporte entre 20 et 100 millions d’euros par projet, soutenant des développements solaires, éoliens et géothermiques sur de nombreux marchés, notamment en Mauritanie, en Tanzanie, au Kenya et en Ouganda.

Au-delà du financement, les entreprises énergétiques françaises restent parmi les développeurs internationaux les plus actifs dans le secteur de l’électricité en Afrique. EDF Power Solutions vise à multiplier par cinq son portefeuille d’énergies renouvelables sur le continent entre 2024 et 2026, avec l’ambition d’atteindre 3 GW de capacité installée à court terme.

ENGIE continue d’étendre sa présence dans les projets éoliens, solaires, de dessalement, de stockage par batterie et d’hydrogène vert, tandis que TotalEnergies fait progresser des développements énergétiques intégrés sur des marchés tels que le Mozambique, l’Afrique du Sud, la Libye, la Mauritanie, le Maroc, le Rwanda et l’Ouganda – reflétant l’empreinte croissante de la France dans le paysage plus large de la diversification énergétique en Afrique.

« Le potentiel de l’Afrique en matière d’énergies renouvelables représente une opportunité non seulement pour les entreprises françaises, mais aussi pour renforcer la sécurité énergétique à long terme de l’Europe grâce aux échanges d’électricité et de carburants verts », a déclaré NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie. « L’AEW offre une plateforme essentielle pour aligner les stratégies d’investissement, harmoniser les approches politiques et établir des partenariats mutuellement bénéfiques entre l’Afrique et la France. »

Au-delà des énergies renouvelables, la France soutient le développement à long terme de l’énergie nucléaire à travers l’Afrique dans le cadre d’un mix énergétique diversifié. En tant que l’un des principaux producteurs d’énergie nucléaire au monde, elle s’efforce de renforcer les capacités institutionnelles et techniques par le biais d’initiatives telles que le programme INSC Africa, qui aide des pays comme l’Afrique du Sud, l’Égypte, le Ghana, le Kenya, le Maroc et le Nigeria à développer des cadres réglementaires, des systèmes de sûreté et la formation de la main-d’œuvre.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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As empresas globais de tecnologia Unified Digital Group (UDG) e Era juntam-se à primeira edição da vertente de Inteligência Artificial (IA) e Centros de Dados da African Energy Week (AEW) 2026

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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Leo LaBranche, CEO da Unified Digital Group (UDG) – uma empresa global de consultoria e assessoria empresarial – e Geoffrey Levene, sócio da Era – uma empresa de investimento focada em IA – foram confirmados como oradores de destaque na African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 deste ano. Durante o evento, participarão na sessão inaugural sobre IA e Centros de Dados – NexaGrid: Criar. Capacitar. Construir os melhores centros de dados de África para o futuro. A sua participação reúne duas perspetivas influentes sobre a forma como a infraestrutura digital em grande escala, a alocação de capital e os sistemas energéticos estão a convergir nos mercados globais e africanos.

A AEW 2026, agendada para 12 a 16 de outubro na Cidade do Cabo, irá alargar o seu foco na infraestrutura digital através desta sessão dedicada, que se situa na intersecção entre energia, computação e desenvolvimento industrial. O programa irá examinar como os centros de dados estão a evoluir para ativos de procura âncora para os sistemas de energia, a par de discussões sobre estruturas de nuvem soberana, redes inteligentes e a integração da IA no planeamento energético nacional nas economias africanas.

A UDG, liderada por LaBranche, está posicionada na vanguarda desta convergência, focando-se no desenvolvimento de infraestruturas de IA de ponta a ponta que abrangem o planeamento energético à escala de gigawatts, a implantação de centros de dados hiperescaláveis e a conectividade via satélite para operações remotas. A recente orientação estratégica do grupo inclui sistemas de IA agentiva concebidos para a automação empresarial, bem como a integração de tecnologia física, como infraestruturas de redes privadas e robótica, com forte ênfase na implantação em mercados fronteiriços e emergentes, incluindo África.

A Era, onde Levene desempenha funções como sócio, opera como uma ponte entre o capital familiar global e a camada de infraestruturas físicas da IA, com um forte enfoque em centros de dados, sistemas energéticos e cadeias de abastecimento de computação. A empresa trabalha em estreita colaboração com o ecossistema mais alargado da IA para identificar oportunidades de investimento ligadas ao crescimento de infraestruturas de hiperescala, apoiando simultaneamente empreendimentos em tecnologia de defesa, sistemas climáticos e plataformas de IA de próxima geração que dependem de capacidade de computação de alta densidade.

«O que estamos a assistir é a uma mudança estrutural em que a infraestrutura digital se está a tornar tão crítica quanto a geração de energia tradicional na promoção do crescimento económico. A participação da LaBranche e de Levene reflete esta convergência acelerada entre infraestruturas energéticas e sistemas digitais em toda a África. Esta vertente estratégica centrada na IA e nos dados reúne a tecnologia e a liderança necessárias para transformar essa convergência em projetos reais e financiáveis em todo o continente», afirma NJ Ayuk, Presidente Executivo da African Energy Chamber.

Em toda a África, o desenvolvimento da IA e dos centros de dados está a ser cada vez mais incorporado em quadros de planeamento energético de longo prazo, a par de projetos convencionais de produção e transmissão. Estas instalações estão ligadas a requisitos de aumento da procura de eletricidade para novas adições de capacidade, bem como aos esforços contínuos das empresas de serviços públicos e dos operadores para melhorar a eficiência da rede através de monitorização e análise baseadas em dados. Estão também a ser discutidas em relação aos requisitos de infraestruturas digitais soberanas para apoiar a atividade industrial, os sistemas de serviços financeiros e os serviços digitais do setor público.

A vertente de IA e Centros de Dados da AEW 2026 reforça o papel crescente da Cidade do Cabo como ponto de encontro para o diá. sobre energia e tecnologia no continente, reunindo decisores políticos, investidores e líderes de infraestruturas. A participação da UDG e da Era sublinha uma mudança mais ampla no sentido de modelos de investimento integrados, em que a computação, a energia e a mobilização de capital estão alinhadas para acelerar a transformação digital e energética de África.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

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Banco Angolano de Investimentos (BAI) Backs Angola’s Financing Drive as Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2026 Silver Sponsor

Source: APO – Report:

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Angolan financial institution Banco Angolano de Investimentos (BAI) has been confirmed as a Silver Sponsor of the Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2026 Conference and Exhibition, reinforcing the growing role of domestic financial institutions in underwriting the country’s next phase of hydrocarbon and energy infrastructure development. Taking place on September 9–10 with a pre-conference day on September 8, AOG 2026 is increasingly positioning Angolan capital as a critical lever in converting project pipelines into bankable investments.

The sponsorship signals a broader shift in Angola’s oil and gas financing landscape. While international capital continues to play a central role in large-scale upstream developments, domestic banks are becoming more active in structuring and supporting mid-sized and early-stage projects, particularly in onshore exploration and independent operator activity. This is a segment where capital access remains uneven, despite strong geological potential and a steady pipeline of licensing opportunities.

The financing gap is most visible in downstream infrastructure. Angola’s Lobito Refinery alone faces an estimated $4.8 billion investment shortfall, underscoring the scale of capital required to close the country’s refining deficit and reduce reliance on imported fuels. For local institutions such as BAI, this represents both a challenge and a strategic entry point, as domestic lenders look to syndicate financing, co-invest alongside international partners and deepen exposure to energy-linked assets with long-term revenue profiles.

At the same time, Angola’s upstream strategy is evolving. Independent operators are playing an increasingly prominent role in advancing marginal fields and onshore blocks, but these projects often fall outside the traditional financing frameworks used by major international oil companies. This creates a structural opportunity for domestic banks to step in with more tailored financing solutions, particularly as regulatory reforms and licensing rounds continue to expand access to acreage.

AOG 2026 is designed to address these opportunities. The event serves not only as a dealmaking platform for international investors, but increasingly as a marketplace for domestic capital allocation. By convening operators, project developers and financial institutions, the conference facilitates direct engagement between those structuring projects and those capable of financing them locally.

BAI’s presence at AOG 2026 reflects this trend. As Angola works to sustain production, expand refining capacity and build out its gas and power value chains, the ability to mobilize local capital alongside international investment will increasingly determine which projects move forward and at what pace.

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Global Tech Firms Unified Digital Group (UDG) and Era Join African Energy Week (AEW) 2026’s Inaugural Artificial intelligence (AI) and Data Center Track

Source: APO – Report:

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Leo LaBranche, CEO of Unified Digital Group (UDG) – a global business consulting and advisory firm – and Geoffrey Levene, Partner at Era – an AI-focused investment firm – have been confirmed as featured speakers at this year’s African Energy Week (AEW) 2026. During the event, they will take part in the inaugural AI and Data Center Track – NexaGrid: Create. Enable. Build Africa’s Finest Data Centers for the Future. Their participation brings together two influential perspectives on how large-scale digital infrastructure, capital allocation and energy systems are converging across global and African markets.

AEW 2026, scheduled for October 12–16 in Cape Town, will expand its focus on digital infrastructure through the dedicated track, which sits at the intersection of energy, compute and industrial development. The program will examine how data centers are evolving into anchor demand assets for power systems, alongside discussions on sovereign cloud frameworks, intelligent grids and the integration of AI into national energy planning across African economies.

UDG, led by LaBranche, is positioned at the forefront of this convergence, focusing on end-to-end AI infrastructure development that spans gigawatt-scale energy planning, hyperscale data center deployment and satellite-enabled connectivity for remote operations. The group’s recent strategic direction includes agentic AI systems designed for enterprise automation, as well as physical technology integration such as private network infrastructure and robotics, with a strong emphasis on deployment in frontier and emerging markets, including Africa.

Era, where Levene serves as Partner, operates as a bridge between global family capital and the physical infrastructure layer of AI, with a strong focus on data centers, energy systems and compute supply chains. The firm works closely within the broader AI ecosystem to identify investment opportunities linked to hyperscale infrastructure growth, while also supporting ventures in defense tech, climate systems and next-generation AI platforms that depend on high-density computing capacity.

“What we are seeing is a structural shift where digital infrastructure is becoming just as critical as traditional power generation in driving economic growth. The participation of LaBranche and Levene reflects this accelerating convergence between energy infrastructure and digital systems across Africa. This strategic AI- and data-focused track brings together technology and leadership needed to turn that convergence into real, bankable projects across the continent,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

Across Africa, AI and data center development is increasingly being incorporated into long-term energy planning frameworks alongside conventional generation and transmission projects. These facilities are linked to increased electricity demand requirements for new capacity additions, as well as ongoing efforts by utilities and operators to improve grid efficiency through data-driven monitoring and analytics. They are also being discussed in relation to sovereign digital infrastructure requirements for supporting industrial activity, financial services systems and public-sector digital services.

AEW 2026’s AI and Data Center track reinforces Cape Town’s growing role as a convening point for energy and technology dialogue on the continent, bringing together policymakers, investors and infrastructure leaders. The participation of UDG and Era underscores a broader shift toward integrated investment models where compute, power and capital deployment are aligned to accelerate Africa’s digital and energy transformation.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.