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dtic backs local forestry firms at major industry expo

Source: Government of South Africa

dtic backs local forestry firms at major industry expo

In a move to grow the economy and support the creation of jobs for South Africans, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) is supporting four South African companies in the forestry sector at the WoodEX for Africa and Deck and Flooring Expo, taking place from 9 to 11 June 2026 at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

The exhibition provides an important platform for CMAS Trading and Projects, Seltech Cupboards, Roofbrands and Truss Master to showcase their products, explore new business opportunities and strengthen their presence in both local and international markets.

According to the department, the support forms part of its broader industrial policy objectives aimed at promoting industrialisation, strengthening local manufacturing, enhancing business competitiveness, encouraging value-added production, expanding market access for businesses, supporting Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), and creating sustainable jobs.

“Through participation in the exhibition, the dtic aims to grow South Africa’s forestry and furniture manufacturing industries, strengthen industry value chains, and increase commercial opportunities for local businesses,” the department said.

Recognised as a leading event for machinery, tools, forestry and timber supplies in southern Africa, WoodEX for Africa brings together trade and industry professionals, specialised dealers and businesses from across the sector.

The expo offers participants an opportunity to stay abreast of the latest industry trends and innovations, establish valuable business connections and identify new commercial prospects within the timber trade.

The dtic said its support for the participating companies forms part of ongoing efforts to grow South Africa’s forestry and furniture manufacturing industries through targeted policies, programmes and strategic interventions.

These initiatives are designed to strengthen the competitiveness of local businesses, encourage value-added production, expand access to new markets and unlock additional commercial opportunities.

At the exhibition, the four companies will showcase their capabilities, engage with potential customers, forge business partnerships and explore new trade opportunities aimed at expanding their commercial footprint.

The event will also provide a valuable platform for engagement between the dtic and industry stakeholders. Visitors to the department’s exhibition stand will be able to interact directly with officials, learn more about available business support and gain insight into programmes and incentives aimed at strengthening the forestry sector and supporting its long-term growth.

The dtic reaffirmed its commitment to implementing industrial policy measures that support industrialisation, investment, localisation, export growth and job creation, while fostering the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of South Africa’s forestry and furniture manufacturing industries. – SAnews.gov.za

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Forget Energy Transition, Produce Oil Like Nothing Before

Source: APO


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The world does not have an energy problem. It has an energy supply problem. As demand rises, populations grow, and billions of people continue to live without reliable access to electricity and clean cooking technologies, the case for producing more energy has never been stronger. From Africa to Latin America, governments and operators are responding with renewed investments in exploration, production and infrastructure, signaling a shift away from energy subtraction and toward energy addition.

Speaking during the ARPEL Conference 2026 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (AEC) – the voice of the African energy sector – delivered a direct message to policymakers, investors and industry leaders: “Forget transition. Let’s talk about addition. Let’s give people what they need.”

The numbers support the argument. Energy poverty remains one of the greatest barriers to economic development globally. In Africa alone, more than 600 million people remain without access to electricity, with nearly one billion people living without access to clean cooking technologies – the most disproportionately affected of which are women. Asking developing economies to produce less energy while these realities persist is fundamentally disconnected from the needs of billions of people.

“For far too long, we have been told to build less, produce less and pay more for energy,” Ayuk stated. “In Africa, we believe this is a moment for energy addition, not energy subtraction. Drill, baby, drill. It’s more important today than ever before.”

Africa offers the clearest justification for increasing oil and gas production. Despite holding more than 125 billion barrels of crude oil reserves and 620 trillion cubic feet of proven gas reserves, the continent relies heavily on imported petroleum products to sustain its economies. Inadequate investment flows across the energy value chain have impacted development and industrialization, leaving millions in the dark.

The global energy transition further compounds this challenge. Opposition by environmental groups, a shift toward aid rather than commercial business structures and diminishing investment for oil and gas projects have brought significant implications to the continent. While developed economies are pursuing a shift towards alternative energy sources, Africa needs its oil and gas – now more than ever before.

Efforts are being made across the continent to produce more oil and gas. Leading producers such as Nigeria and Angola strive to increase output, targeting brownfield development, accelerated exploration and enhanced recovery. Emerging producers such as Namibia are fast-approaching first oil, while discoveries made in Ivory Coast, investments made in the Republic of Congo, and new LNG builds in Mozambique and Tanzania are supporting greater production continent-wide.

“We must remain resolute. We must commit to an industry that builds more, produces more and never apologizes for oil. Many people in Africa are not ashamed of oil. We believe oil has a major role to play in our energy future,” Ayuk said.

Latin America offers a powerful demonstration of what sustained exploration and production can achieve. Brazil’s pre-salt developments remain among the most successful offshore projects in the world, delivering large volumes of low-cost production while attracting continued investment. Guyana continues to expand output at one of the fastest rates globally, while Argentina’s Vaca Muerta shale play is strengthening the country’s position as a major energy producer. Pan American Energy also recently announced plans to invest $680 million to revitalize Argentina’s Cerro Dragon field in the mature Golfo San Jorge basin, reflecting global interest in optimizing South American oil production.

The region’s success reflects a commitment to developing resources rather than restricting them. “Our friends in Latin America have been strong stewards for our industry,” Ayuk said, adding, “Be proud of your energy industry.”

That message extends far beyond Latin America. As governments reassess energy policy, supply security and economic growth priorities, oil and gas continue to provide the foundation upon which modern economies are built. The choice facing both emerging and producing nations is increasingly clear: either create the conditions necessary for investment, exploration and development, or risk falling behind in a world that continues to demand more energy.

“We do not have anywhere to transition to. Where are we going to transition to? From the dark to the dark?” Ayuk asked. “We want to ensure that we have energy that drives development.”

For billions of people still seeking access to affordable, reliable energy, the priority is not producing less. It is producing more.

“Don’t ever apologize for producing energy that drives human flourishing,” Ayuk concluded. “Keep building, keep producing and don’t be scared to say, ‘drill, baby, drill’ whenever you have the chance.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Heirs Energies’ US$750 Million Financing Named Best Oil & Gas Deal of the Year

Source: APO

Heirs Energies Limited, Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company, has been recognised on the global stage after its landmark US$750 million dual-tranche Senior Secured Reserve-Based Lending (RBL) facility was named Best Oil & Gas Deal of the Year at the EMEA Finance Project Finance Awards 2026.

The award was presented on 3 June 2026, in London, and recognises one of the largest financings secured by an indigenous African energy company. The transaction highlights the growing role of African capital in supporting strategic investments that advance energy security, economic development, and long-term value creation across the continent.

Executed with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), the US$750 million financing was structured to accelerate field development, optimise production, and support Heirs Energies’ long-term growth ambitions, while maintaining disciplined capital management.

Commenting on the recognition, Osa Igiehon, Chief Executive Officer of Heirs Energies, said: “This recognition reflects the confidence that African and international financial institutions continue to place in Heirs Energies, our strategy, and our long-term vision.

“The transaction demonstrates that indigenous African energy companies can successfully structure and execute world-class financing solutions that support investment, growth, and value creation. We are proud to receive this award and grateful to our financing partners, advisers, and stakeholders whose support made it possible.”

Mr. Haytham ElMaayergi, Executive Vice President, Global Trade Bank at Afreximbank, said: “We are truly honoured that the US$750 million dual-tranche Senior Secured Reserve-Based Lending facility for Heirs Energies has been recognised as Best Oil & Gas Deal of the Year by the EMEA Finance Project Finance Awards.

“This recognition underscores the importance of well-structured, Africa-focused financing in supporting indigenous energy companies with strong governance, high-quality assets and clear long-term growth plans. Afreximbank was proud to support this landmark transaction, which demonstrates how African financial institutions can help mobilise capital for strategic businesses that advance energy security, production capacity and sustainable value creation across the continent.

“We congratulate Heirs Energies and all the partners involved in the transaction and are pleased to see this important financing recognised on such a respected international platform.”

Samuel Nwanze, Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer of Heirs Energies, added: “This award validates the strength of the transaction and the confidence our financing partners placed in Heirs Energies.

“The facility was designed to support our long-term growth strategy, enabling continued investment in field development, production optimisation, and sustainable value creation. We are pleased to see the transaction recognised on such a respected global platform.”

The financing represented a major milestone in Heirs Energies’ evolution from acquisition-led financing to a capital structure aligned with the long-term development profile of its reserves. It further reinforced the Company’s position as a leading indigenous energy producer and demonstrated the ability of African institutions to finance transformational African businesses.

The EMEA Finance Project Finance Awards recognise outstanding transactions across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, celebrating excellence, innovation, and impact in project and structured finance.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

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

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

About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2025, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$48.5 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$8.4 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), GCR (A), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-), and. Moody’s (Baa2). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

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What Human Resource (HR) Professionals Gain from Automation

Source: APO

Human resource people are concerned. As automation becomes more featured in modern digital technologies, many HR staff are asking the same question: will automation replace me?

Their fears are not unfounded. According to surveys conducted by Gartner (https://apo-opa.co/4uo4fGQ), some companies are using AI as an excuse to reduce HR headcounts, and 79% of Chief HR Officers told AMS (https://apo-opa.co/4xj8Qg9) that they see notable concerns about job security among their teams.

Supporting human abilities

However, a report published last year by the International Labour Organisation (https://apo-opa.co/3SaBQGM) found that AI and automation are unlikely to replace HR staff. Instead, automation is producing significant productivity improvements for HR staff, says Mignon Wolmarans, HR Product Manager at Deel Local Payroll.

“HR jobs require people with complex problem-solving, creativity, and strong interpersonal skills. These are not abilities that a machine or software can replace. But HR people spend most of their time on manual tasks that actually reduce their ability to focus on priorities where their skills are needed the most.”

This observation comes from working with clients who adopt automation in their HR environments, she adds.

“We sometimes encounter reluctance when we bring up automation, and the resistance is usually around a comfort with manual processes or gaps in training and skills that reduce people’s confidence in technology. But when we work with them to overcome those concerns, they love what automation does and how it gives them more autonomy and focus.”

How automation supports HR

Modern HR platforms, cloud software, can automate many routine HR tasks, either as processes designed by HR teams or as ready-to-use native features. These latter features match frequent HR tasks that would otherwise require significant manual processing, input from multiple people, or both.

Some examples include:

  • Leave management: Automate accruals based on length of service, salary grade, or a combination of the two. Automation applies forfeiture rules automatically, and if an employee’s tenure ends, leave encashment is calculated and processed in a single automated action.
  • Claims: Self-service custom forms and document attachments streamline overtime and travel claims. These are processed through established rules and approvals, pushed to the responsible managers or heads of departments. As soon as a claim is approved, it automatically updates payslip information.
  • E-onboarding: Instead of HR practitioners capturing new employee information manually, ‌newcomers use online forms to complete their basic profile and address information, and attach key documents, all of which are loaded onto their profile and only require approval from HR.
  • Performance management: Set up different performance review layouts, forms, and templates for various roles, objectives, and indicators. Participants can attach supporting documents, while reviewers, managers, and other staff can submit their contributions. All the performance data feeds into central dashboards for complete control and visibility of the company’s performance.

These automations reduce manual workloads and errors while extending features to other stakeholders in different departments. Crucially, they don’t replace HR staff and instead give them the capacity to focus on intricate and human-centric activities that require more than capturing data and compiling reports. As mentioned, HR teams can also create automated processes and customised forms.

Creating digital confidence

The best HR software vendors offer training and skills honing for customers. For example, Deel Local Payroll provides training staff and extensive learning resources for its customers, helping them take charge of automation.

“People are most reluctant to adopt automation because of skills gaps, which feeds into fears that the technology will replace them. That’s why we have a dedicated training department, one-to-one training, and e-learning courses that help fill those gaps,” says Wolmarans.

The fear that automation will replace HR people is overstated, even if some company leaders consider it an option. Software cannot compare to what skilled HR professionals do best. But those same professionals focus overwhelmingly on manual tasks, taking time better spent on more complex and strategic priorities.

Automation doesn’t replace HR professionals. When the right platform and vendor support them, it makes them better at their jobs.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace.

About Deel Local Payroll:
Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace, revolutionises payroll management. It offers online, multi-country payroll and HR management for businesses from start-ups through to enterprise in over 40 African countries, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and Brazil.

Cloud-native, Deel Local Payroll, is scalable, configurable, highly secure, and easy-to-use—delivering anytime, anywhere access. It features payroll automation, self-service features, automatic legislation and feature updates, customised reporting, and more.

Since 2024, Deel Local Payroll has been part of Deel, operating as an independent subsidiary, serving its customers through the PaySpace platform.

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Oubliez la transition énergétique, produisons du pétrole comme jamais auparavant

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le monde n’a pas de problème énergétique. Il a un problème d’approvisionnement énergétique. Alors que la demande augmente, que les populations s’accroissent et que des milliards de personnes continuent de vivre sans accès fiable à l’électricité et à des technologies de cuisson propre, les arguments en faveur d’une production énergétique accrue n’ont jamais été aussi solides. De l’Afrique à l’Amérique latine, les gouvernements et les opérateurs réagissent en renouvelant leurs investissements dans l’exploration, la production et les infrastructures, marquant ainsi un tournant : on passe d’une soustraction d’énergie à une addition d’énergie.

S’exprimant lors de la conférence ARPEL 2026 à Buenos Aires, en Argentine, NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie (AEC) – la voix du secteur énergétique africain – a adressé un message direct aux décideurs politiques, aux investisseurs et aux dirigeants du secteur : « Oublions la transition. Parlons plutôt d’augmentation. Donnons aux gens ce dont ils ont besoin. »

Les chiffres viennent étayer cet argument. La précarité énergétique reste l’un des principaux obstacles au développement économique à l’échelle mondiale. Rien qu’en Afrique, plus de 600 millions de personnes n’ont toujours pas accès à l’électricité, et près d’un milliard de personnes vivent sans accès à des technologies de cuisson propre – les femmes étant les plus touchées de manière disproportionnée. Demander aux économies en développement de produire moins d’énergie alors que ces réalités persistent est fondamentalement déconnecté des besoins de milliards de personnes.

« Depuis bien trop longtemps, on nous dit de construire moins, de produire moins et de payer plus cher l’énergie », a déclaré M. Ayuk. « En Afrique, nous pensons que le moment est venu d’ajouter de l’énergie, et non d’en soustraire. Forons, forons encore et encore. C’est plus important aujourd’hui que jamais. »

L’Afrique offre la justification la plus évidente pour augmenter la production de pétrole et de gaz. Bien qu’il détienne plus de 125 milliards de barils de réserves de pétrole brut et 620 000 milliards de pieds cubes de réserves prouvées de gaz, le continent dépend fortement des produits pétroliers importés pour soutenir ses économies. L’insuffisance des flux d’investissement tout au long de la chaîne de valeur énergétique a eu un impact sur le développement et l’industrialisation, laissant des millions de personnes dans le noir.

La transition énergétique mondiale aggrave encore ce défi. L’opposition des groupes environnementaux, le passage à des structures d’aide plutôt que commerciales et la baisse des investissements dans les projets pétroliers et gaziers ont eu des répercussions importantes sur le continent. Alors que les économies développées s’orientent vers des sources d’énergie alternatives, l’Afrique a besoin de son pétrole et de son gaz – aujourd’hui plus que jamais.

Des efforts sont déployés à travers le continent pour produire davantage de pétrole et de gaz. Des producteurs de premier plan tels que le Nigeria et l’Angola s’efforcent d’augmenter leur production, en ciblant le développement de sites existants, l’accélération de l’exploration et l’amélioration de la récupération. Des producteurs émergents comme la Namibie approchent à grands pas de leur première production de pétrole, tandis que les découvertes faites en Côte d’Ivoire, les investissements réalisés en République du Congo et les nouvelles installations de GNL au Mozambique et en Tanzanie favorisent une production accrue à l’échelle du continent.

« Nous devons rester résolus. Nous devons nous engager en faveur d’une industrie qui construit davantage, produit davantage et ne s’excuse jamais pour le pétrole. Beaucoup de gens en Afrique n’ont pas honte du pétrole. Nous pensons que le pétrole a un rôle majeur à jouer dans notre avenir énergétique », a déclaré M. Ayuk.

L’Amérique latine offre une démonstration éloquente de ce que l’exploration et la production soutenues peuvent accomplir. Les développements pré-salifères du Brésil restent parmi les projets offshore les plus réussis au monde, assurant de grands volumes de production à faible coût tout en attirant des investissements continus. La Guyane continue d’augmenter sa production à l’un des rythmes les plus rapides au monde, tandis que le gisement de schiste de Vaca Muerta en Argentine renforce la position du pays en tant que grand producteur d’énergie. Pan American Energy a également annoncé récemment son intention d’investir 680 millions de dollars pour revitaliser le champ Cerro Dragon en Argentine, dans le bassin mature du Golfo San Jorge, ce qui reflète l’intérêt mondial pour l’optimisation de la production pétrolière sud-américaine.

Le succès de la région reflète un engagement à développer les ressources plutôt qu’à les restreindre. « Nos amis d’Amérique latine ont été de solides garants de notre industrie », a déclaré M. Ayuk, ajoutant : « Soyez fiers de votre industrie énergétique. »

Ce message s’étend bien au-delà de l’Amérique latine. Alors que les gouvernements réévaluent leurs priorités en matière de politique énergétique, de sécurité d’approvisionnement et de croissance économique, le pétrole et le gaz continuent de constituer le fondement sur lequel reposent les économies modernes.

Le choix auquel sont confrontés tant les pays émergents que les pays producteurs est de plus en plus clair : soit créer les conditions nécessaires à l’investissement, à l’exploration et au développement, soit risquer de prendre du retard dans un monde qui continue d’exiger davantage d’énergie.

« Nous n’avons nulle part où aller. Vers quoi allons-nous évoluer ? De l’obscurité vers l’obscurité ? », a demandé M. Ayuk. « Nous voulons nous assurer de disposer de l’énergie qui stimule le développement. »

Pour les milliards de personnes qui cherchent encore à accéder à une énergie abordable et fiable, la priorité n’est pas de produire moins. C’est de produire plus.

« Ne vous excusez jamais de produire de l’énergie qui favorise l’épanouissement humain », a conclu M. Ayuk. « Continuez à construire, continuez à produire et n’ayez pas peur de dire “forez, mes amis, forez” chaque fois que vous en avez l’occasion. »

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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Esqueça a transição energética, produza petróleo como nunca antes

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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O mundo não tem um problema energético. Tem um problema de abastecimento energético. À medida que a procura aumenta, as populações crescem e milhares de milhões de pessoas continuam a viver sem acesso fiável à eletricidade e a tecnologias de cozinha limpas, os argumentos a favor de uma maior produção de energia nunca foram tão fortes. Da África à América Latina, governos e operadores estão a responder com novos investimentos em exploração, produção e infraestruturas, sinalizando uma mudança da subtração de energia para a adição de energia.

Ao discursar na Conferência ARPEL 2026 em Buenos Aires, Argentina, NJ Ayuk, Presidente Executivo da Câmara Africana de Energia (AEC) – a voz do setor energético africano – transmitiu uma mensagem direta aos decisores políticos, investidores e líderes da indústria: “Esqueçam a transição. Vamos falar de adição. Vamos dar às pessoas o que elas precisam.”

Os números corroboram o argumento. A pobreza energética continua a ser uma das maiores barreiras ao desenvolvimento económico a nível global. Só em África, mais de 600 milhões de pessoas continuam sem acesso à eletricidade, com quase mil milhões de pessoas a viver sem acesso a tecnologias de cozinha limpas – sendo as mulheres as mais afetadas de forma desproporcional. Pedir às economias em desenvolvimento que produzam menos energia enquanto estas realidades persistem está fundamentalmente desligado das necessidades de milhares de milhões de pessoas.

«Há demasiado tempo que nos dizem para construir menos, produzir menos e pagar mais pela energia», afirmou Ayuk. «Em África, acreditamos que este é um momento para a adição de energia, não para a subtração de energia. Perfura, querida, perfura. É mais importante hoje do que nunca.»

África oferece a justificação mais clara para o aumento da produção de petróleo e gás. Apesar de possuir mais de 125 mil milhões de barris de reservas de petróleo bruto e 620 biliões de pés cúbicos de reservas comprovadas de gás, o continente depende fortemente de produtos petrolíferos importados para sustentar as suas economias. Os fluxos de investimento inadequados ao longo da cadeia de valor energética têm afetado o desenvolvimento e a industrialização, deixando milhões na escuridão.

A transição energética global agrava ainda mais este desafio. A oposição de grupos ambientalistas, uma mudança para estruturas de ajuda em vez de estruturas comerciais e a diminuição do investimento em projetos de petróleo e gás trouxeram implicações significativas para o continente. Enquanto as economias desenvolvidas procuram uma transição para fontes de energia alternativas, África precisa do seu petróleo e gás – agora mais do que nunca.

Estão a ser envidados esforços em todo o continente para produzir mais petróleo e gás. Produtores líderes, como a Nigéria e Angola, esforçam-se por aumentar a produção, visando o desenvolvimento de campos já explorados, a exploração acelerada e a recuperação melhorada. Produtores emergentes, como a Namíbia, estão a aproximar-se rapidamente da primeira produção de petróleo, enquanto as descobertas feitas na Costa do Marfim, os investimentos realizados na República do Congo e as novas construções de GNL em Moçambique e na Tanzânia estão a apoiar uma maior produção em todo o continente.

“Temos de permanecer resolutos. Temos de nos comprometer com uma indústria que constrói mais, produz mais e nunca pede desculpa pelo petróleo. Muitas pessoas em África não têm vergonha do petróleo. Acreditamos que o petróleo tem um papel importante a desempenhar no nosso futuro energético”, afirmou Ayuk.

A América Latina oferece uma demonstração poderosa do que a exploração e a produção sustentadas podem alcançar. Os desenvolvimentos do pré-sal do Brasil continuam a estar entre os projetos offshore mais bem-sucedidos do mundo, proporcionando grandes volumes de produção a baixo custo, ao mesmo tempo que atraem investimento contínuo. A Guiana continua a expandir a produção a um dos ritmos mais rápidos a nível global, enquanto a jazida de xisto de Vaca Muerta, na Argentina, está a reforçar a posição do país como um importante produtor de energia. A Pan American Energy também anunciou recentemente planos para investir 680 milhões de dólares na revitalização do campo Cerro Dragon, na Argentina, na bacia madura do Golfo San Jorge, refletindo o interesse global em otimizar a produção de petróleo na América do Sul.

O sucesso da região reflete um compromisso com o desenvolvimento dos recursos, em vez de os restringir. «Os nossos amigos na América Latina têm sido fortes defensores da nossa indústria», disse Ayuk, acrescentando: «Tenham orgulho na vossa indústria energética.»

Essa mensagem estende-se muito além da América Latina. À medida que os governos reavaliam as prioridades em matéria de política energética, segurança do abastecimento e crescimento económico, o petróleo e o gás continuam a constituir a base sobre a qual as economias modernas são construídas.

A escolha que se coloca tanto às nações emergentes como às produtoras é cada vez mais clara: ou se criam as condições necessárias para o investimento, a exploração e o desenvolvimento, ou se corre o risco de ficar para trás num mundo que continua a exigir mais energia.

«Não temos para onde fazer a transição. Para onde vamos fazer a transição? Da escuridão para a escuridão?», perguntou Ayuk. «Queremos garantir que temos energia que impulsiona o desenvolvimento.»

Para milhares de milhões de pessoas que ainda procuram acesso a energia acessível e fiável, a prioridade não é produzir menos. É produzir mais.

«Nunca peçam desculpa por produzirem energia que impulsiona o florescimento humano», concluiu Ayuk. «Continuem a construir, continuem a produzir e não tenham medo de dizer “perfura, querida, perfura” sempre que tiverem oportunidade.»

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

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Spiro Appoints Former Indofast Energy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Anant Badjatya as Group CEO to Lead its Next Phase of Growth

Source: APO – Report:

  • Following its most recent landmark US$215 million equity raise, Spiro is strengthening its leadership team to execute its next phase of pan-African expansion and appoints Anant Badjatya as Group CEO of Spiro.
  • Anant Badjatya previously spearheaded Indofast Energy, the IndianOil × SUN Mobility joint venture, where he built one of India’s largest battery-swapping networks with more than 1,800 stations serving approximately 90,000 vehicles daily.

Spiro (http://www.Spironet.com), Africa’s leading electric mobility company, today announced the appointment of Anant Badjatya as Group Chief Executive Officer.

Anant joins Spiro with more than two decades of leadership experience across India, the Middle East and Africa, building and scaling businesses across electric mobility, energy and industrial sectors.

Most recently, he served as CEO of Indofast Energy, the joint venture between IndianOil and SUN Mobility, where he led the development of one of India’s largest battery-swapping networks, comprising more than 1,800 stations and serving nearly 90,000 vehicles daily.

The appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Spiro following its landmark US$215 million financing round, one of the largest investments ever made in Africa’s electric mobility sector. Anant’s broad mandate will span battery swapping, leasing, logistics, energy, and vehicle manufacturing.

Gagan Gupta, Founder and Chairman of Spiro said: 

“As Spiro is accelerating on its mission to transform mobility across Africa through clean, affordable and accessible electric transportation solutions, Anant will consolidate the Group’s strategic initiatives and guide the company through its next chapter of growth and execution in mobility, energy and tech.”

Commenting on his appointment, Anant Badjatya said:

“Africa represents the most exciting frontier for electric mobility.  Spiro has built a unique platform and is exceptionally well positioned to accelerate the transition to cleaner and more accessible mobility across the continent. I look forward to working with our teams, partners and stakeholders to drive the next phase of growth and impact.“

– on behalf of Spiro.

Media Contact:
Flora Limukii
Head of Corporate Communications, Spiro
Email: communications@spironet.com

About Spiro:
Spiro is Africa’s largest electric mobility company and operates the continent’s most extensive battery-swapping network for electric two-wheel vehicles. With more than 100,000 electric motorcycles on the road, over 2,500 swapping stations and more than 30 million battery swaps to date, Spiro is replacing expensive fossil-fuel transport with affordable, accessible and sustainable mobility solutions. Through its growing regional production and assembly footprint, Spiro is committed to building electric vehicles made in Africa by Africans for Africa and the world. https://www.Spironet.com/

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Gwede Mantashe Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 as South Africa’s Petroleum Reforms Open the Orange Basin to Drilling

Source: APO – Report:

Gwede Mantashe, Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources of the Republic of South Africa, has been confirmed as a featured speaker at the upcoming African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 Conference and Exhibition, where he is expected to lay out the reform agenda reshaping the country’s upstream oil and gas sector and its drive to convert long-stranded offshore gas into production.

South Africa is pursuing one of the most significant upstream overhauls in its history, anchored by a new law that gives oil and gas their own regulatory regime for the first time. The reforms position the host nation as both a destination for exploration capital and a future producer along an Atlantic margin that has drawn the world’s largest oil companies to the region.

At the center of the shift is the Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Act (UPRDA), which President Cyril Ramaphosa signed into law in October 2024. The Act separates petroleum from the mining statute that has long regulated both sectors. It also creates a single petroleum right covering exploration and production along with a 20% carried interest for the state. The UPRDA awaits a presidential proclamation to take effect, and implementing regulations that went through a further round of industry comment in early 2026 are now being finalized.

Mantashe has emerged as the most forceful advocate for accelerating the sector. He has long-argued that South Africa must shift from importing refined products to producing its own, warning that dependence on foreign supply leaves the economy exposed to global price shocks. This shift becomes increasingly more importance in the current global climate, where supply security has become a major challenge – particularly for import-reliance economies such as South Africa. As such, Mantashe has repeatedly pressed for faster licensing and fewer legal delays to exploration. AEW 2026 is a key platform to bring this discussion to a global audience.

“South Africa has the geology for exploration. Now it is building the regulatory certainty it needs to turn discoveries into bankable projects,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “A clear petroleum framework and a credible state partner are what international capital needs to commit to the Orange Basin.”

Offshore, TotalEnergies – operator of Block 3B/4B in the Orange Basin – is preparing to begin drilling in South African waters in 2026 pending final regulatory approvals. The acreage sits on trend with the Venus discovery in neighboring Namibia, where TotalEnergies is developing the basin’s first oil project.

Onshore, momentum is building in Mpumalanga, where gas developer Kinetiko Energy’s Amersfoort project has logged sustained high-flow results and is advancing plans for an LNG pilot plant. Mantashe has also signaled that government is moving to lift the long-standing moratorium on shale gas development, with the Petroleum Agency of South Africa (PASA) estimating recoverable Karoo reserves at 209 tcf.

Mantashe is also expected to report on successes of the South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC), the state entity formed in May 2025 through the merger of PetroSA, iGas and the Strategic Fuel Fund. Positioned as the country’s petroleum champion, SANPC is intended to anchor state participation across the value chain as South Africa works toward 6 GW of gas-fired power by 2030.

As AEW 2026 prepares to convene policymakers, investors and operators at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from October 12-16, Mantashe’s address carries added weight as the host nation’s signal to the market. His message is expected to be direct: South Africa is open for upstream investment and ready to move from potential to production.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Gwede Mantashe participera à African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 alors que les réformes pétrolières sud-africaines ouvrent le bassin de l’Orange au forage

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Gwede Mantashe, ministre des Ressources minérales et pétrolières de la République d’Afrique du Sud, a été confirmé comme orateur vedette de la prochaine conférence et exposition African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, où il devrait présenter le programme de réformes visant à remodeler le secteur pétrolier et gazier en amont du pays, ainsi que ses efforts pour mettre en production le gaz offshore longtemps resté inexploité.

L’Afrique du Sud mène actuellement l’une des plus importantes réformes du secteur amont de son histoire, fondée sur une nouvelle loi qui confère pour la première fois au pétrole et au gaz leur propre régime réglementaire. Ces réformes positionnent le pays hôte à la fois comme une destination pour les capitaux d’exploration et comme un futur producteur le long d’une marge atlantique qui a attiré les plus grandes compagnies pétrolières mondiales dans la région.

Au cœur de ce changement se trouve la loi sur le développement des ressources pétrolières en amont (UPRDA), que le président Cyril Ramaphosa a promulguée en octobre 2024. Cette loi sépare le secteur pétrolier de la législation minière qui régissait depuis longtemps les deux secteurs. Elle crée également un droit pétrolier unique couvrant l’exploration et la production, assorti d’une participation de 20 % pour l’État. L’UPRDA doit encore faire l’objet d’une proclamation présidentielle pour entrer en vigueur, et les règlements d’application, qui ont fait l’objet d’une nouvelle série de consultations auprès du secteur au début de l’année 2026, sont en cours de finalisation.

Mantashe s’est imposé comme le plus fervent défenseur de l’accélération du développement de ce secteur. Il soutient depuis longtemps que l’Afrique du Sud doit passer de l’importation de produits raffinés à leur production locale, avertissant que la dépendance vis-à-vis de l’approvisionnement étranger expose l’économie aux chocs de prix mondiaux. Cette transition revêt une importance croissante dans le contexte mondial actuel, où la sécurité d’approvisionnement est devenue un défi majeur – en particulier pour les économies dépendantes des importations telles que l’Afrique du Sud. À ce titre, Mantashe a insisté à plusieurs reprises pour que l’octroi des licences soit accéléré et que les retards juridiques liés à l’exploration soient réduits. L’AEW 2026 est une plateforme clé pour porter ce débat à l’attention d’un public mondial.

« L’Afrique du Sud dispose d’une géologie propice à l’exploration. Elle met désormais en place la sécurité réglementaire dont elle a besoin pour transformer les découvertes en projets bancables », a déclaré NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie. « Un cadre pétrolier clair et un partenaire public crédible sont ce dont les capitaux internationaux ont besoin pour s’engager dans le bassin de l’Orange. »

En mer, TotalEnergies – opérateur des blocs 3B/4B dans le bassin de l’Orange – se prépare à commencer le forage dans les eaux sud-africaines en 2026, sous réserve des autorisations réglementaires finales. Le périmètre s’inscrit dans la même tendance que la découverte de Venus en Namibie voisine, où TotalEnergies développe le premier projet pétrolier du bassin.

À terre, la dynamique s’accélère dans la province du Mpumalanga, où le projet Amersfoort du développeur gazier Kinetiko Energy a enregistré des débits élevés et soutenus et avance dans ses plans pour une usine pilote de GNL. M. Mantashe a également indiqué que le gouvernement s’apprêtait à lever le moratoire de longue date sur l’exploitation du gaz de schiste, l’Agence pétrolière d’Afrique du Sud (PASA) estimant les réserves récupérables du Karoo à 209 tcf.

M. Mantashe devrait également rendre compte des succès de la South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC), l’entité publique créée en mai 2025 par la fusion de PetroSA, iGas et du Strategic Fuel Fund. Positionnée comme le fleuron pétrolier du pays, la SANPC a pour mission d’ancrer la participation de l’État tout au long de la chaîne de valeur, alors que l’Afrique du Sud s’efforce d’atteindre une capacité de 6 GW d’électricité produite au gaz d’ici 2030.

Alors que l’AEW 2026 s’apprête à réunir décideurs politiques, investisseurs et opérateurs au Centre international de congrès du Cap du 12 au 16 octobre, le discours de Mantashe revêt une importance particulière en tant que signal envoyé par le pays hôte au marché. Son message devrait être clair : l’Afrique du Sud est ouverte aux investissements en amont et prête à passer du potentiel à la production.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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Gwede Mantashe participa na African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, numa altura em que as reformas petrolíferas da África do Sul abrem a Bacia de Orange à perfuração

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Gwede Mantashe, Ministro dos Recursos Minerais e Petrolíferos da República da África do Sul, foi confirmado como orador de destaque na próxima Conferência e Exposição da African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, onde se espera que apresente a agenda de reformas que está a remodelar o setor de upstream de petróleo e gás do país e o seu esforço para converter em produção o gás offshore há muito em suspenso.

A África do Sul está a levar a cabo uma das mais significativas reformas do setor a montante da sua história, ancorada numa nova lei que atribui, pela primeira vez, ao petróleo e ao gás o seu próprio regime regulatório. As reformas posicionam o país anfitrião tanto como destino para o capital de exploração como futuro produtor ao longo da margem atlântica, que tem atraído as maiores empresas petrolíferas do mundo para a região.

No centro desta mudança está a Lei de Desenvolvimento dos Recursos Petrolíferos a Montante (UPRDA), que o Presidente Cyril Ramaphosa promulgou em outubro de 2024. A lei separa o petróleo da legislação mineira que há muito regulamentava ambos os setores. Cria também um direito petrolífero único que abrange a exploração e a produção, juntamente com uma participação de 20% para o Estado. A UPRDA aguarda uma proclamação presidencial para entrar em vigor, e os regulamentos de implementação, que passaram por uma nova ronda de comentários da indústria no início de 2026, estão agora a ser finalizados.

Mantashe emergiu como o mais veemente defensor da aceleração do setor. Há muito que defende que a África do Sul deve passar da importação de produtos refinados para a produção dos seus próprios, alertando que a dependência do abastecimento estrangeiro deixa a economia exposta a choques de preços globais. Esta mudança torna-se cada vez mais importante no atual clima global, em que a segurança do abastecimento se tornou um grande desafio — particularmente para economias dependentes de importações, como a África do Sul. Como tal, Mantashe tem pressionado repetidamente por um licenciamento mais rápido e menos atrasos legais na exploração. A AEW 2026 é uma plataforma fundamental para levar esta discussão a um público global.

«A África do Sul possui a geologia necessária para a exploração. Agora está a criar a segurança regulatória de que necessita para transformar descobertas em projetos viáveis», afirmou NJ Ayuk, Presidente Executivo da Câmara Africana de Energia. «Um quadro claro para o setor petrolífero e um parceiro estatal credível são o que o capital internacional precisa para se comprometer com a Bacia de Orange.»

No mar, a TotalEnergies – operadora do Bloco 3B/4B na Bacia de Orange – está a preparar-se para iniciar a perfuração em águas sul-africanas em 2026, enquanto aguarda as aprovações regulatórias finais. A área está alinhada com a descoberta de Venus na vizinha Namíbia, onde a TotalEnergies está a desenvolver o primeiro projeto petrolífero da bacia.

Em terra, o impulso está a ganhar força em Mpumalanga, onde o projeto Amersfoort da promotora de gás Kinetiko Energy registou resultados sustentados de alto fluxo e está a avançar com planos para uma unidade piloto de GNL. Mantashe também sinalizou que o governo está a avançar para levantar a moratória de longa data sobre o desenvolvimento de gás de xisto, com a Agência de Petróleo da África do Sul (PASA) a estimar as reservas recuperáveis de Karoo em 209 tcf.

Espera-se também que Mantashe relate os sucessos da South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC), a entidade estatal formada em maio de 2025 através da fusão da PetroSA, da iGas e do Strategic Fuel Fund. Posicionada como a campeã do petróleo do país, a SANPC tem como objetivo ancorar a participação do Estado em toda a cadeia de valor, à medida que a África do Sul trabalha para atingir 6 GW de energia a gás até 2030.

À medida que a AEW 2026 se prepara para reunir decisores políticos, investidores e operadores no Centro Internacional de Convenções da Cidade do Cabo, de 12 a 16 de outubro, o discurso de Mantashe ganha um peso adicional como sinal da nação anfitriã para o mercado. Espera-se que a sua mensagem seja direta: a África do Sul está aberta ao investimento a montante e pronta para passar do potencial à produção.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

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