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Qantas Airways direct flight to SA to boost tourism

Source: Government of South Africa

Qantas Airways direct flight to SA to boost tourism

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille on Monday welcomed the launch of Qantas Airways’ new direct flight between Johannesburg and Perth adding that it will boost tourism and trade.

De Lille said the move will also people-to-people relations between South Africa and Australia.

The launch took place in Johannesburg and was attended by the Australian Minister for Trade and Tourism, Don Farrell, Australian High Commissioner, Tegan Brink and senior executives from Qantas, South African Tourism, the Gauteng Tourism Authority and the Tourism Business Council of South Africa.

De Lille said the new direct route represents more than just an addition to South Africa’s air network. 

“This is not just a new connection on a route map; it is a bridge between two nations, two peoples, and two tourism markets with enormous potential. It unlocks deeper collaboration, increased two-way travel, and stronger people-to-people ties,” she said.

The launch follows shortly after South Africa’s successful hosting of the G20 Summit in November, a milestone which showcased the country’s capability as a world-class Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) destination. 

“The world recently saw a confident, warm, and capable South Africa, able to host global leaders with distinction. This momentum is carried forward through initiatives like expanded air connectivity.

She further emphasised that increased air connectivity remains a central pillar of the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan 2025-2029, particularly under its ease-of-access focus area, which addresses air routes, visa systems, and the removal of travel barriers.
The latest aviation data reflects strong recovery and expansion:
• International seat capacity now stands at 8.5 million, a 9.1% increase over 2024.
• 4.6 million seats are allocated to long-haul routes and 3.9 million to short-haul routes.
• Double-digit seat growth has been recorded since June 2025.

“This is airlift expansion at scale, backed by policy, planning and strong partnerships,” the Minister said.
Strengthening connectivity 
The Johannesburg–Perth service significantly strengthens South Africa’s connectivity with the Oceania region and is expected to play a critical role in growing inbound business events and leisure tourism.

It also provides improved access ahead of major industry events such as Meetings Africa 2026 and Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026.
The route will also benefit South Africans travelling to Australia for business, education and family purposes, reinforcing two-way mobility and economic participation. 

Tourism performance from Australia continues to show strong growth:
• Arrivals from Australia in 2025 are nearly 30% higher than in 2024.
• Arrivals are now 10% above pre-COVID levels, signalling not only recovery but sustained expansion.

The new direct flight is also expected to play a strategic role as South Africa prepares to host major international sporting events, including the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2027, further strengthening sporting and cultural ties between the two nations.

“Sport has always been a powerful bridge between South Africa and Australia. This service strengthens that bond even further,” the Minister said.

Minister De Lille further highlighted that South African Tourism will work closely with Qantas and industry partners to stimulate demand and ensure the long-term success of the route, while also positioning South Africa as an accessible gateway for travellers from across the wider Oceania region, including New Zealand.

“South Africa is rising. Tourism is thriving. And the world is taking notice. This new route brings new opportunities, new partnerships, and new travellers. South Africa awaits, and we cannot wait to welcome visitors who will arrive because of this flight,” the Minister concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Edwin

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Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement approuve près de 160 millions de dollars américains en faveur de la République Démocratique du Congo (RD Congo) pour renforcer la connectivité du parc agroindustriel de Ngandajika

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Conseil d’administration du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org) a approuvé un prêt de 159,50 millions de dollars américains en faveur du Projet de renforcement de la connectivité au parc agroindustriel de Ngandajika, en République démocratique du Congo.

Le coût total du projet s’élève à 177,16 millions de dollars, cofinancé par le Gouvernement congolais.

Ce projet stratégique vise à désenclaver le parc agroindustriel de Ngandajika (PAIN) et à renforcer son intégration aux principaux axes économiques de la région centre. Il prévoit l’aménagement des routes reliant Nkuadi-Ngandajika-PAIN et Lukalaba-Ngandajika, ainsi que l’amélioration des liaisons entre la Route nationale 1 (RN1) et la Route nationale 2 (RN2). Le projet comprend également l’extension de la piste de l’aéroport de Mbuji-Mayi, afin de soutenir le fret agro-industriel.

« Ce projet constitue un jalon stratégique majeur pour l’intégration économique de l’Afrique centrale et pour l’industrialisation agricole de la RDC. En renforçant l’accès au parc agro-industriel de Ngandajika, nous ne faisons pas qu’améliorer une route : nous consolidons une chaîne de valeur essentielle, nous ouvrons de nouveaux corridors d’échanges, et nous créons un levier puissant pour la compétitivité, l’emploi et l’inclusion économique — en particulier pour les femmes et les jeunes. Ce projet illustre pleinement notre engagement en faveur d’infrastructures structurantes au service d’une transformation durable et souveraine des économies de la région »,  a déclaré Léandre Bassolé, directeur général de la Banque africaine de développement pour l’Afrique centrale.

Les travaux bénéficieront directement aux agriculteurs, aux opérateurs de transport et aux agro-industries des provinces du Kasaï oriental et de la Lomami, en réduisant les coûts logistiques et en facilitant l’accès aux marchés. Les jeunes et les femmes, largement impliqués dans les activités agricoles et commerciales locales, profiteront de nouvelles opportunités économiques grâce à de meilleures infrastructures.

L’intervention s’inscrit dans la mise en œuvre du Programme des Transformations Agricoles (PTA) et complète le Programme d’Appui au Développement de la Zone Spéciale de Transformation Agroindustrielle de Ngandajika (PRODAN) (https://apo-opa.co/4pQPBpE). Elle contribue également aux objectifs de la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf), en améliorant la connectivité et les capacités commerciales.

« Ce projet va lever l’un des principaux obstacles à la compétitivité du parc agroindustriel de Ngandajika : l’absence d’infrastructures fiables pour l’acheminement des intrants et l’évacuation de la production. Les nouveaux axes routiers et l’amélioration de la desserte aérienne permettront de réduire significativement les coûts logistiques et d’accélérer l’intégration des producteurs aux chaînes de valeur agro-industrielles. », a déclaré le Johnny Makwela, chef de projet.

Aligné sur le Document de Stratégie Pays 2023-2028 pour la RDC, le projet appuie le développement des chaînes de valeur agricoles, renforce la sécurité alimentaire et stimule la compétitivité des productions locales.

Par cette nouvelle opération, la Banque africaine de développement réaffirme son engagement à soutenir la transformation économique durable de la RDC.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact media :
Solange Kamuanga-Tossou
Département de la communication et des relations extérieures
email : media@afdb.org

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The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) Supports EUR 132.5 Million Financing to Strengthen Uzbekistan’s Steel Industry

Source: APO

The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) (https://ICIEC.IsDB.org), a Shariah-compliant multilateral insurer and member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, is pleased to announce its support for a landmark EUR 132.5 million financing arranged by Standard Chartered for Joint-Stock Company “O’zbekiston Metallurgiya Kombinat” (Uzmetkombinat), the largest steel producer in Uzbekistan. 

The financing, backed by ICIEC’s sovereign cover, will enable the completion of Uzmetkombinat’s new Casting and Rolling Complex in Bekabad, Southern Uzbekistan. Once completed, the facility will produce hot-rolled coils (HRCs)—a critical product previously imported—thereby boosting the country’s self-sufficiency in steel production and enhancing competitiveness in the construction and manufacturing sectors. 

The introduction of domestically produced HRCs marks a new milestone for Uzbekistan, ensuring greater supply chain efficiency and reduced costs for local industries such as pipe manufacturing and construction. The investment will also have a significant social and economic impact in Bekabad, a city of 100,000 people where Uzmetkombinat already employs more than 8,000 workers and sustains thousands of indirect jobs. 

This project represents the second significant transaction between ICIEC and Standard Chartered in Uzbekistan during 2025. Previously, ICIEC supported a EUR 160.4 million Islamic financing facility for Joint-Stock Commercial Bank “Agrobank,” enhancing access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the country. 

Commenting on the transaction, Dr. Khalid Khalafalla, CEO of ICIEC, stated: “This landmark transaction exemplifies ICIEC’s mandate to de-risk trade and investment and to catalyze sustainable economic growth across our Member States. By supporting Uzbekistan’s largest steel producer, we are not only fostering the development of critical industrial capacity but also contributing to enhanced self-reliance, job creation, and long-term economic resilience. We are proud to deepen our collaboration with Standard Chartered through this second major transaction in Uzbekistan, which underscores the strength of our partnership and our shared commitment to advancing impactful development projects.” 

Desislava Radeva, Executive Director, Development and Agency Finance, Standard Chartered, says: “We are proud to partner once again with ICIEC to support a valuable client, Uzmetkombinat. Steel production represents a key strategic industry for Uzbekistan and the domestic sourcing of HRCs is a huge leap forward for the country. It is an example of Standard Chartered’s expertise in driving prosperity in some of the world’s most dynamic markets.” 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC).

Email:
ICIEC-Communication@isdb.org  

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About The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC): 
As a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, ICIEC commenced operations in 1994 to strengthen economic relations between OIC Member States and promote intra-OIC trade and investment by providing credit enhancement and risk mitigation solutions. The Corporation is the only Islamic multilateral insurer in the world and has been at the forefront of delivering a comprehensive suite of de-risking solutions to support cross-border trade and investment for its 51 Member States. ICIEC has maintained its “Aa3” rating with a stable outlook from Moody’s for 18 consecutive years, positioning the Corporation among the leaders in the Credit and Political Risk Insurance (CPRI) industry. Additionally, S&P has reaffirmed ICIEC’s “AA-” rating for the second year with a stable outlook. ICIEC’s resilience is underpinned by its sound underwriting practices, global reinsurance network, and strong risk management framework. Since inception, ICIEC has cumulatively insured over USD 121 billion in trade and investment, supporting key sectors such as energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, healthcare, and agriculture in its member states.  

For more information, Visit https://ICIEC.IsDB.org  

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Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo): The African Development Bank Group grants nearly $160 million to strengthen connectivity to the Ngandajika agro-industrial park

Source: APO

The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) has approved a $159.50 million loan to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to improve connectivity to the Ngandajika Agro-Industrial Park and help open up the country’s central region.

The total project cost is $177.16 million, with co-financing from the Congolese government.

The Project to Strengthen Connectivity at the Ngandajika Agro-Industrial Park is a strategic investment aimed at integrating the park more effectively into the main economic corridors of central DRC.

The project includes upgrades to the Nkuadi–Ngandajika–PAIN and Lukalaba–Ngandajika roads, as well as improvements to the connecting sections between National Roads 1 and 2 (RN1 and RN2). It also provides for the extension of the Mbuji-Mayi airport runway to support the growth of agro-industrial air freight.

“This project is a major milestone for Central Africa’s economic integration and for advancing agricultural industrialization in the DRC. By improving access to the Ngandajika agro-industrial park, we are doing more than upgrading a road. We are strengthening a critical value chain, opening new trade corridors, and creating powerful opportunities for competitiveness, jobs and economic inclusion – especially for women and young people. This initiative reflects our commitment to delivering transformative infrastructure that drives sustainable and sovereign economic development in the region,” said Léandre Bassolé, the African Development Bank’s Director General for Central Africa.

The project will directly benefit farmers, transporters and agro-industrial operators in Lomami province, the surrounding park area and Kasaï Oriental, by lowering logistics costs and improving access to markets. Women and young people – who play a key role in local agricultural and commercial activities – will gain new economic opportunities thanks to better infrastructure.

The initiative forms part of the Bank Group’s Agricultural Transformation Programme (PTA) and complements the Support Programme for the Development of the Ngandajika Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (PRODAN) (https://apo-opa.co/4oTvFSo). It also advances the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by enhancing trade and connectivity.

“This project will remove one of the main constraints limiting the competitiveness of the Ngandajika agro-industrial park: the lack of reliable transport infrastructure for supplying inputs and moving production,” said Johnny Makwela, the project task manager. “The new road links and improved air access will significantly reduce logistics costs and accelerate the integration of producers into agro-industrial value chains,” he added.

The project supports the development of agricultural value chains, strengthens food security and boosts the competitiveness of local production – contributing directly to the implementation of the Bank Group’s 2023–2028 Country Strategy Paper for the DRC.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media contact:
Solange Kamuanga-Tossou
Communication and External Relations Department
media@afdb.org

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Dr Jennifer Glennie described as an advocate for education and social justice

Source: Government of South Africa

Dr Jennifer Glennie described as an advocate for education and social justice

The Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has joined the nation in mourning the passing of Dr Jennifer Anne Glennie.

Glennie passed away in a car accident on Tuesday, 2 December 2025, at the age of 75. She was born in Johannesburg and graduated from the University of the Witwatersrand with a first-class Honours degree in pure mathematics in 1971.

According to Nzimande, Glennie, who trained as a mathematician, was not only a distinguished and lifelong progressive educationalist but also a tireless advocate for social justice. 

The Minister praised the late mathematician for her immeasurable contribution to ensuring equal access to education for all and to the transformation of society.

“At the height of the anti-apartheid struggle, she initiated and participated in the formation of a number of progressive education initiatives and projects.” 

Through Khanya College, which was popularly known as the “people’s college”, Nzimande said she contributed to empowering black young people from marginalised communities and preparing them for university education.

According to the Minister, her intervention laid the basis for future policy thinking on the transformative power of people’s education and fed into and deeply informed the formation of the National Education Crisis Committee (NECC) in 1986 and its declaration for a radically new people’s education system.

In later years, as the founding Director of the South African Institute of Distance Education (SAIDE), she championed innovative and inclusive solutions, including the African Storybook initiative, which promotes home-language literacy for African children.

In her roles as a member of the Council for Higher Education (CHE), Council and Broad Transformation Forum Member at the University of South Africa (UNISA) and Council Member at Sol Plaatje University, she made a significant contribution to shaping and strengthening higher education policy and governance in our country.

Owing to her lifelong commitment to educational development and social justice, the Minister said Glennie was a recipient of a number of prestigious national and international honours.

These include being appointed as a Fellow of the International Commonwealth of Learning, the Chancellor’s Medal from the University of Pretoria for her contribution to education and the African Council for Distance Education Legacy Service Award for her exceptional contribution to the field of open distance and e-learning.

“It is also worth pointing out that her work in the field of education contributed to significant advances in related areas such as reading for meaning, technology for education, mother tongue-education and decolonisation.

“Her indefatigable and visionary educational activism over the past five decades also intersected with the various grassroots interventions that were implemented by the liberation movement during the dark days of apartheid, under the vision of ‘A People’s Education for People’s Power.’” 

Nzimande believes that the totality of her work contributed to a much larger goal, building South Africa into a country where all its citizens can realise their potential, regardless of their race, gender, class, religion, or area of residence.

“The passing of Dr Glennie constitutes an incalculable loss to our country’s education and science fraternity.

“Those of us who worked with her will remember her as an irrepressible activist and ethical public servant, who dedicated her knowledge and skills to the building of a humane and just country and world.”– SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile

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Three persons of interests identified in “Witness D” murder case

Source: Government of South Africa

Three persons of interests identified in “Witness D” murder case

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola says the police have identified three persons of interest that they believe can assist in solving the murder case of Marius Van Der Merwe.

“We are closing in on these suspects as our investigations reach a very advanced and sensitive stage,” General Masemola said on Monday.

Addressing the media after visiting the family of Van der Merwe in Brakpan, Ekurhuleni, Masemola said linked to the murder of Van Der Merwe, the police are investigating two other cases which is the murder case in Duduza and the attempted murder of Van Der Merwe in September 2025 in which he indicated that there were two white males that were following him in a Mahindra Bakkie.

“We are still looking for the murder weapon that was used in the commission of this crime,” the Commissioner said.

The possible motive for the murder is still under investigation. Additionally, the police have found a vehicle they believe was used in the commission of the crimes.

“At this stage, we do believe that the white Chevrolet bakkie that was abandoned in Alexandra township, right here in Johannesburg fits the description of the vehicle that we have been looking for,” he said.

According to a police preliminary investigation, the vehicle was abandoned on Saturday morning by two men, just hours after Van Der Merwe was shot and killed on Friday evening.

“Our crime scene experts as well as our vehicle crime investigation unit were at the scene in Alexandra where the car was found. The car was found on a gravel dead end road, amongst shacks. We have taken the car to our forensic laboratory for further analysis.” 

Van der Merwe was a Brakpan-based security industry member and former Ekhurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department official. He was shot multiple times in full view of his family outside their Brakpan home.

Van der Merwe had testified at the Madlanga Commission as Witness D.

Prior to visiting the Van der Merwe family, Masemola visited the Saulsville mass shooting scene west of Pretoria.

READ | Police Commissioner to visit Saulsville mass shooting scene

Masemola said the investigating team is confident that there will soon be a breakthrough in the case. 

“We are still investigating the motive of this incident, we do have an idea of what may have led to this incident, however intelligence is still gathering and analysing information that has been received.

“We have registered 12 counts of murder and 13 counts of attempted murder cases. We have also charged the owner of the room who is one of the injured and is in hospital for operating a tavern without a valid liquor license,” he said.

In the Saulsville incident, police confirmed that 11 of those shot suffered fatal injuries, with the latest victim having succumbed to injuries while being treated at Kalafong hospital where all the victims had been taken to.

Among the dead are a three-year-old and a 12-year-old child. The 14 others that were injured and are being treated in hospital. 

The Commissioner said three suspects are still at large, but the detectives and uniformed police are working around the clock to find the killers.  – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Edwin

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Nzimande meets with department’s entities 

Source: Government of South Africa

Nzimande meets with department’s entities 

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande has held one-on-one meetings with the leadership of his department’s entities as part of efforts to enhance the impact and visibility of the department.

Held last week, the discussions followed a special meeting held in August with the Chairpersons and CEOs of the entities under the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI).

At the meeting in August, Nzimande emphasised the importance of upholding good governance among the leaders of these entities. This includes combating corruption, minimising waste, and promoting transformation within the department’s organisations.

The Minister also stressed the need for continuous improvement in the relationship and communication between the department and its entities.

He highlighted that the National System of Innovation (NSI) must be adaptable to the evolving domestic economic and geopolitical landscape.

After the commitments made during the August meeting, and with the support of DSTI Director-General Dr Mlungisi Cele and the senior management team, the Minister met last week with the boards and executives of the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), the National Research Foundation (NRF), the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), and the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC).

“Guided by the White Paper and the Decadal Plan for Science, Technology and Innovation, as well as the ever-changing external environment, we will continue to make bold and decisive shifts in the focus areas of our department and its entities,” Nzimande said.

He further emphasised the need to continually redefine the role of the DSTI and its entities to combat the perception of elitism and to enhance the national impact of their work.

“As part of this strategic repositioning, we have recently adopted a new departmental mantra: ‘Placing Science, Technology, and Innovation at the centre of Government, Education, Industry, and Society.’ The realisation of our mantra relies on several critical enablers, including the need to significantly elevate the scale and profile of our work.”

These ministerial engagements with DSTI entities aim to address key issues identified in various performance reports, including the 2020-2025 end-term assessment, the 2024/25 annual reports, and the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation’s 2024 online self-assessment tool.

The outcomes of these meetings are intended to provide feedback to the entities for developing the 2026/27 annual performance plans (APPs) and, if necessary, revising the 2025-2030 strategic plans.

The outcomes will also be incorporated into the second draft of the APPs, which are due for submission to the department by 16 January 2026.

Further ministerial engagements will occur with other DSTI entities during the first half of 2026.

“More broadly, these engagements are part of Minister Nzimande’s long-term goal of empowering the DSTI and its entities to make bold, impactful changes that will enhance the role of science, technology, and innovation in improving the well-being of our society,” said the department. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile

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Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento aprova quase 160 milhões de dólares para a República Democrática do Congo reforçar a conectividade do parque agroindustrial de Ngandajika

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

O Conselho de Administração do Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (www.AfDB.org) aprovou um empréstimo de 159,50 milhões de dólares para o Projeto de reforço da conectividade do parque agroindustrial de Ngandajika, na República Democrática do Congo (RDCongo). 

O custo total do projeto ascende a 177,16 milhões de dólares, cofinanciados pelo Governo congolês.

Este projeto estratégico visa abrir o parque agroindustrial de Ngandajika (PAIN) e reforçar a sua integração nas principais vias económicas da região central. Prevê a construção das estradas Nkuadi-Ngandajika-PAIN e Lukalaba-Ngandajika, bem como a melhoria das ligações entre a Estrada Nacional 1 (RN1) e a Estrada Nacional 2 (RN2). O projeto inclui também o prolongamento da pista do aeroporto de Mbuji-Mayi, para apoiar o transporte de mercadorias agroindustriais.

“Este projeto constitui um marco estratégico importante para a integração económica da África Central e para a industrialização agrícola da RDCongo. Ao reforçar o acesso ao parque agroindustrial de Ngandajika, não estamos apenas a melhorar uma estrada: estamos a consolidar uma cadeia de valor essencial, a abrir novos corredores de comércio e a criar uma alavanca poderosa para a competitividade, o emprego e a inclusão económica – em particular para as mulheres e os jovens. Este projeto ilustra plenamente o nosso compromisso com infraestruturas ao serviço de uma transformação sustentável e soberana das economias da região», afirmou Léandre Bassolé, diretor-geral do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento para a África Central.

As obras beneficiarão diretamente os agricultores, os operadores de transporte e as agroindústrias das províncias de Kasaï Oriental e Lomami, reduzindo os custos logísticos e facilitando o acesso aos mercados. Os jovens e as mulheres, amplamente envolvidos nas atividades agrícolas e comerciais locais, beneficiarão de novas oportunidades económicas graças a melhores infraestruturas.

A intervenção insere-se na implementação do Programa de Transformações Agrícolas (PTA) e complementa o Programa de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento da Zona Especial de Transformação Agroindustrial de Ngandajika (PRODAN) (https://apo-opa.co/4pQPBpE). Contribui igualmente para os objetivos da Zona de Comércio Livre Continental Africana (AfCFTA), melhorando a conectividade e as capacidades comerciais.

“Este projeto irá eliminar um dos principais obstáculos à competitividade do parque agroindustrial de Ngandajika: a falta de infraestruturas fiáveis para o transporte de insumos e a distribuição da produção. As novas vias rodoviárias e a melhoria dos serviços aéreos permitirão reduzir significativamente os custos logísticos e acelerar a integração dos produtores nas cadeias de valor agroindustriais”, afirmou o líder do projeto, Johnny Makwela.

Em consonância com o Documento de Estratégia Nacional 2023-2028 para a RDCongo, o projeto apoia o desenvolvimento das cadeias de valor agrícolas, reforça a segurança alimentar e estimula a competitividade das produções locais.

Com esta nova operação, o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento reafirma o seu compromisso em apoiar a transformação económica sustentável da RDCongo

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contacto para os media:
Solange Kamuanga-Tossou 
Departamento de Comunicação e Relações Externas 
media@afdb.org

Sobre o Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento: 
O Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento é a principal instituição financeira de desenvolvimento em África. Inclui três entidades distintas: o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (AfDB), o Fundo Africano de Desenvolvimento (ADF) e o Fundo Fiduciário da Nigéria (NTF). Presente no terreno em 41 países africanos, com uma representação externa no Japão, o Banco contribui para o desenvolvimento económico e o progresso social dos seus 54 Estados-membros. Mais informações em www.AfDB.org/pt

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L’Chambre africaine de l’énergie (AEC) appelle à une plus grande coopération entre les pays du Sud lors du troisième dialogue des think tanks du Sud

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Une coopération plus étroite entre les pays du Sud devient de plus en plus urgente, alors que ces pays cherchent de nouvelles voies pour accélérer leur développement, développer leurs échanges commerciaux et renforcer leur résilience économique à long terme. Pour l’Afrique, le renforcement des liens entre les pays du Sud est particulièrement précieux, car il offre une solution viable pour exploiter les richesses naturelles et minérales du continent et lui permettre de dépasser une croissance fragmentée pour s’orienter vers des stratégies coordonnées qui produisent des résultats tangibles.

La Chambre africaine de l’énergie (AEC), représentée par Leoncio Amada NZE, président exécutif de l’AEC pour la CEMAC et vice-président du Conseil national du développement économique et social de la Guinée équatoriale, a souligné la nécessité d’une approche plus inclusive et coopérative entre les pays du Sud lors du troisième Dialogue des think tanks du Sud, qui s’est tenu à Shanghai du 2 au 4 décembre 2025. Au cours de cet événement, M. Amada NZE a souligné comment le renforcement des réseaux commerciaux, des partenariats et des transferts de technologie peut débloquer une croissance durable et à long terme sur tout le continent, le passage de l’aide au commerce constituant la pierre angulaire du développement futur du continent.

Bien qu’ils constituent l’une des régions les plus riches en énergie et en minerais du continent, les pays de la CEMAC ont longtemps eu du mal à attirer les investissements étrangers nécessaires, en grande partie à cause de politiques fiscales inefficaces, de réglementations strictes en matière de change et d’obstacles au commerce régional. On peut citer comme exemple la mise en œuvre de règles plus strictes en matière de transferts de devises et de paiements par la Banque des États de l’Afrique centrale en 2022. Ces difficultés ont non seulement dissuadé les investissements étrangers, mais ont également eu un impact sur le commerce régional de l’énergie, les projets transfrontaliers et les échanges commerciaux multilatéraux. Cela intervient alors que de nombreux pays de la région mettent en œuvre des objectifs de production ambitieux dans le but d’utiliser le développement énergétique comme catalyseur de la croissance économique. Dans le secteur pétrolier et gazier, le Gabon vise 220 000 barils par jour (bpj), la République du Congo vise 500 000 bpj, la Guinée équatoriale poursuit la monétisation du gaz tandis que le Cameroun poursuit le développement de nouveaux gisements. Les pays poursuivent également le développement accéléré de l’énergie et de l’électricité, s’efforçant d’améliorer la sécurité énergétique et la sécurité d’approvisionnement en carburant.

Des cadres commerciaux renforcés, des normes harmonisées et des systèmes logistiques améliorés aideront les pays africains à atteindre ces objectifs en favorisant la libre circulation des services et des personnes, en renforçant les liens économiques et en mettant en place des systèmes énergétiques plus résilients à travers le continent. Cela servirait également de vecteur pour les investissements directs étrangers, en encourageant les incursions des acteurs internationaux et en faisant avancer les projets dans les domaines de l’énergie, des mines et du développement des infrastructures. À ce titre, Amada NZE a appelé à la suppression des barrières structurelles qui entravent la croissance, soulignant l’importance de la coopération régionale en matière d’énergie comme pilier central de la stratégie de développement de l’Afrique. En favorisant les plateformes d’affaires, de recherche et d’échanges culturels, Amada NZE a souligné que les pays du Sud peuvent accélérer leur trajectoire de développement et parvenir à une prospérité partagée.

Amada NZE a également souligné la nécessité d’aller au-delà des modèles traditionnels axés sur l’aide, en soulignant l’importance de construire des économies autonomes fondées sur le commerce, la participation du secteur privé, l’innovation et les capacités industrielles locales. Pour l’Afrique, cela signifie passer à des cadres de développement qui favorisent l’esprit d’entreprise, la création de valeur régionale et la croissance tirée par l’investissement. Parallèlement, alors que les pays du Sud augmentent leur part dans la production économique mondiale, les partenariats avec des alliés mondiaux restent essentiels. Les fournisseurs de technologies, les institutions financières et les investisseurs stratégiques jouent un rôle essentiel dans le soutien aux pays africains qui élargissent l’accès à l’énergie, diversifient leurs sources de revenus et modernisent leurs bases industrielles. Une collaboration plus étroite entre les pays africains et leurs partenaires mondiaux contribuera à faire avancer les projets d’infrastructure à grande échelle, à améliorer les capacités techniques et à accélérer la transformation numérique, autant d’éléments essentiels pour combler les écarts de développement et renforcer la stabilité à long terme.

« L’engagement de l’AEC à Shanghai reflète sa volonté constante de garantir à l’Afrique une voix forte dans l’élaboration des programmes de développement mondiaux. En défendant la coopération, l’expansion du commerce et l’intégration énergétique régionale, la Chambre continue de plaider en faveur de réformes qui ouvriront des opportunités, renforceront la résilience et soutiendront l’émergence du continent en tant que force économique compétitive au sein du Sud », déclare Amada NZE.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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Nigeria’s Smartgenix Crowned Grand Prize Winner of the 15th Junior Achievement (JA) Africa Company of the Year (COY) Competition in Abuja

Source: APO

Junior Achievement (JA) Africa (https://JA-Africa.org) successfully concluded the 15th edition of the JA Africa COY Competition, held from December 3–5, 2025, in Abuja, Nigeria, bringing together Africa’s brightest young entrepreneurs to showcase innovative business solutions aligned with the theme “ACT! Action for Climate Transformation.” The continental finals convened student companies from across Africa who had progressed through national JA Company Program competitions to compete across six innovation tracks: Innovation & Technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Financial Technology (FinTech), Digital Media & Creation, Renewable Energy, and Circular Economy & Sustainability.

Following three days of dynamic pitching, mentorship engagement, exhibitions, and rigorous judging, Nigeria’s Smartgenix was crowned the overall Company of the Year 2025 for demonstrating exceptional innovation, execution strength, and high-impact potential. Mauritius’ Plantura claimed Second Place, while Uganda’s Renewablock secured Third Place, rounding out the podium with solutions focused on sustainability and inclusive development. As the continental champion, Smartgenix will proceed to represent Africa at the global finals of the De La Vega Global Entrepreneurship Award, where it will compete against winning teams from other regions for a grand prize of US $15,000.

Additional recognitions were distributed among other deserving teams, thanks to the generous support of various sponsors, including FedEx, PMIEF, FirstBank Nigeria, Delta Air Lines, Bank of America, Kuda Microfinance Bank, Boeing, and Entrepreneurs’ Organization.

Summary of Signature Award Winners:

  • FedEx Global Possibilities Award: XeroLabs, Ghana
  • PMIEF Best Application of Project Management Award: Kwakhanya PlantIQ, Eswatini
  • FirstBank Nigeria CEO Entrepreneurship Award: Plantura, Mauritius

Summary of Branded Award Winners:

  • Delta Air Lines Girls LEAD! Award: 16 girls awarded: Matse Takitsi, Fakudze Temantolo Siphesihle, Dlamini Gcinile Lenhle, Dhristi Gooroochurn, Ameydee Shalinee Chocken, Yezhilly Gopaulen, Lashna Gungabissoon, Ihimbazwe Niyikora Kevine, Uwayo Ange Kevine, Abarurema Hirwa Emma Reponse, Kendy Neilla Gisa, Atuhaire Gabriella Kusiima, Comfort Musukuma, Grace Chilinda, Ndanji Nanyangwe, and Wana Sanyikosa
  • Bank of America Best Financial Performance Award: Renewablock, Uganda
  • Kuda Young Entrepreneurs Award: Kwakhanya PlantIQ, Eswatini
  • Boeing Sustainable Innovation Award: XeroLabs, Ghana
  • Entrepreneurs’ Organizations Rising Leader Award: Ameydee Chocken, CEO of Plantura, Mauritius

Reflecting on the success of COY 2025, Simi Nwogugu, President and CEO of JA Africa, said, “The creativity, courage, and solution-driven mindset we witnessed at COY 2025 remind us why Africa’s youth are our greatest asset. Through entrepreneurship education, we are not just preparing young people for the future of work; we are empowering them to lead climate action, create jobs, and build resilient communities across the continent.”

The competition concluded with the JA Africa Stakeholder Convening held on December 5 in Abuja under the theme “Unlocking Africa’s Youth Dividend: Radical Pathways for Inclusive Skills, Entrepreneurship, and Employment Systems.” The high-level gathering brought together policymakers, educators, private sector leaders, philanthropic institutions, and development partners to catalyze strategic collaborations aimed at strengthening entrepreneurship education, expanding skills pathways, and scaling youth employment systems across Africa.

COY is anchored in the JA Company Program, which equips young people aged 14–17 with hands-on experience in business creation, financial management, teamwork, leadership, and venture pitching. As youth unemployment continues to pose a major development challenge across the continent, programs such as COY remain essential in bridging education to enterprise creation, equipping young people not only to seek employment but to become job creators and innovators within their communities. Alumni of the program across Africa have gone on to establish registered businesses, secure international scholarships and fellowships, and lead social and technology ventures.

The 15th edition of the JA Africa COY was made possible through the generous support of its partners: Headline Sponsors – FedEx, Project Management Institute Educational Foundation (PMIEF), and FirstBank Nigeria; Platinum Sponsors – Delta Air Lines, Bank of America, and Kuda Microfinance Bank; Gold Sponsors – Boeing and the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO); and Media Partner – What Media Group

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Junior Achievement (JA) Africa.

Media Contact:
Ellen Ukpi
Director, Marketing & Communications
Junior Achievement Africa
Email: ellen.ukpi@ja-africa.org

JA Africa:
Junior Achievement (JA) Africa is one of the largest and most impactful youth-serving NGOs on the continent, reaching over 1.5 million young people annually across 23 countries. Through hands-on learning experiences in entrepreneurship, work readiness, financial literacy, and STEM education, JA Africa equips young people with the skills and mindset to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy. JA Africa’s mission is to prepare and inspire Africa’s youth to become ethical leaders, job creators, and agents of change who drive sustainable development across the continent.

FedEx Corp:
FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) provides customers and businesses worldwide with a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce, and business services. With annual revenue of $89 billion, the company offers integrated business solutions utilizing its flexible, efficient, and intelligent global network. Consistently ranked among the world’s most admired and trusted employers, FedEx inspires its more than 500,000 employees to remain focused on safety, the highest ethical and professional standards, and the needs of their customers and communities. FedEx is committed to connecting people and possibilities around the world responsibly and resourcefully, with a goal to achieve carbon-neutral operations by 2040. To learn more, please visit Fedex.com/about.

PMIEF (Project Management Institute Educational Foundation):
For 35 years, PMIEF has helped put youth on the path to success by incorporating project management skills into their daily lives. Our goal is to forge partnerships with nonprofit organizations that support and prepare youth for success by offering project management expertise, resources, and volunteers to aid them in making their dreams a reality. www. PMI. org/pmi-educational-foundation (http://apo-opa.co/3MOeLa7)

Delta Air Lines:
Delta Air Lines is a major United States airline headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, operating nine hubs, with Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport serving as its largest. Together with its regional subsidiaries under the Delta Connection brand, the airline operates more than 5,400 flights daily and serves 325 destinations in 52 countries across six continents. Delta is a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance, expanding its global network, and is the second‑oldest operating commercial airline in the U.S. The airline ranks first globally in revenue and brand value among major airlines and consistently leads industry performance rankings, including The Wall Street Journal’s 2022–2024 airline rankings and Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Airlines in the U.S.

Delta Air Lines is committed to empowering young people around the world through education and global citizenship programs. Its long-standing partnership with JA Africa expands access to STEM learning, leadership development, and real-world career exposure for Africa’s youth. https://www.Delta.com/MEA/en/about-delta/overview

First Bank Nigeria:
FirstBank of Nigeria Limited is the premier commercial bank in Nigeria, with a history of over 130 years of providing dependable and reliable financial services. As a leading financial services provider in Sub-Saharan Africa, FirstBank has consistently supported inclusive economic development by enabling individuals, businesses, and communities to achieve their financial goals. It offers a comprehensive range of retail and corporate banking services, backed by an extensive network of branches and digital channels that ensure seamless banking experiences for millions of customers across Africa and beyond. FirstBank is a member of the FBN Holdings Plc group.  www.FirstBankNigeria.com/

Bank of America:
Bank of America is one of the world’s leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and more than 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock (NYSE: BAC) is listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

Visit BofA Fast Facts for more information about the company.

Kuda Microfinance Bank:
Kuda Microfinance Bank is a CBN-licensed subsidiary of Kuda Technologies, a fintech company on a mission to make financial services accessible, affordable, and rewarding for every African on the planet.

Founded in 2019 by Babs Ogundeyi and Musty Mustapha, Kuda offers a modern alternative to traditional finance by delivering free money transfers, instant credit, savings tools, and business banking through digital channels.

The company has raised over $90 million from institutional investors, including Valar Ventures and Target Global, and it serves more than 7 million customers across Nigeria. Kuda.com/

Boeing:
As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing’s diverse team is committed to innovating for the future and living the company’s core values of safety, quality and integrity.

Boeing’s relationship with the Middle East extends back to 1945. Since then, Boeing has established a number of offices across the region, first in Riyadh in 1982, then a dedicated Boeing Defense, Space and Security office in Abu Dhabi in 1999, a regional headquarters in Dubai in 2005, an office in Doha in 2010, and a new office in Kuwait City in 2021. In addition, Boeing has field service teams across the region and two distribution centers for airplane spare parts in Dubai. For further information, please visit: www.Boeing.com

Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO):
The Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) is the world’s largest membership network created by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs, everywhere. Since 1987, EO has been supporting the world’s leading builders of business to realize more of their potential by fostering connection, strengthening leadership, and creating belonging across industries and borders. EO exists with a clear purpose: to move the world forward by unlocking the full potential of entrepreneurs.

Its mission is engaging entrepreneurs to learn and grow, and its vision is to build the world’s most influential community of entrepreneurs.

Nearly 20,000 members across more than 220 chapters in 80 countries make up EO’s global network. EO members are founders and owners of thriving businesses with a median revenue of over US $5 million, representing diverse industries and regions around the world. They connect through local and global experiences that go beyond business to holistically support the whole entrepreneur.

For more information or to get involved, please visit: EONetwork.org.

What Media Group:
What Media Group is a holding company focused on strategic investments in Africa’s media and entertainment sectors. The group identifies high-growth opportunities across the continent’s rapidly expanding media landscape and provides financial investment, strategic guidance,- and operational support to innovative companies. With a commitment to both commercial growth and social impact, What Media Group prioritizes brands that elevate local talent, strengthen cultural expression, and contribute to the sustainable development of Africa’s creative industries. www.WhatMediaGroup.com/
 

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