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African Leadership Magazine Announces Nominees for the 2025 African Business Leadership Awards – Public Voting Now Open

Location: News
African Leadership Magazine

African Leadership Magazine (www.AfricanLeadershipMagazine.co.uk) proudly unveils the distinguished list of nominees for the 17 categories of the 2025 African Business Leadership Awards (ABLA)—a premier recognition platform celebrating excellence in corporate governance, impactful leadership, and trailblazing contributions to the growth and sustainability of Africa's dynamic business and economic ecosystem. The public voting process is now officially open and will run until 29 May 2025, offering stakeholders across Africa and the globe the opportunity to celebrate and affirm exemplary leadership in the African business space.

The ongoing public voting marks the third phase in a rigorous four-step, points-based selection process for the African Business Leadership Awards (ABLA). The process begins with open nominations, followed by a shortlist of top contenders curated by the African Leadership Magazine editorial board. In this third phase, the public is invited to vote, adding stakeholder voices to the evaluation process. The final stage involves a detailed editorial assessment of votes and supporting evidence to determine winners, ensuring a transparent, merit-based outcome that reflects both public sentiment and proven impact.

Public votes in this phase contribute 65% of the final decision, with the remaining 35% based on supporting evidence for each nominee. This ensures a fair and credible process that values both public opinion and verifiable impact. Winners and first runners-up will be honoured at the 15th African Business Leadership Awards (ABLA), a special highlight of the Africa Summit–London, scheduled for 9–10 July 2025 at the House of Lords, London, United Kingdom.

To cast your vote, visit:

https://apo-opa.co/4k3ofu8

The 2025 African Business Leadership Awards (BLA Nominee Highlights

African Business Leader of the Year

  1. Stella Okoli – Founder & GMD, Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Nigeria
  2. Mohamed Ould Bouamatou – Founder & Chairman, Bouamatou Group, Mauritania
  3. John Gachora – GMD/CEO, NCBA Bank, Kenya
  4. Tewodros Ashenafi – Founder & Chairman, SouthWest Holdings Ltd., Ethiopia
  5. Ntombi Felicia Msiza – CEO, Raubex Group Ltd., South Africa

African Female Business Leader of the Year

  1. Rita Maria Zniber – Chairman & CEO, Diana Holding, Morocco
  2. Jesca Mhoja Nkwabi – CEO, KOM Group, Tanzania
  3. Boitumelo Mosako – CEO, Development Bank of Southern Africa
  4. Esther Muchemi – CEO, Samchi Group, Kenya
  5. Monica Musonda – Founder & CEO, Java Foods, Zambia

African Regulator of the Year

  1. Delese Mimi Darko – CEO, Ghana Food and Drugs Authority
  2. Brima M. Baluwa Koroma – CEO, Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Sierra Leone
  3. Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria – DG, Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Kenya
  4. Leonilde dos Santos – Multisectoral Economic Regulatory Authority, Cape Verde

Business-Friendly Governor of the Year

  1. Daniel Félix Neto – Governor, Lunda Sul Province, Angola
  2. Oscar Mabuyane – Premier of the Eastern Cape, South Africa
  3. Jacques Kyabula Katwe – Governor, Haut-Katanga Province, DR Congo
  4. Ibrahima Cissé – Minister Governor, Autonomous District of Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
  5. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah – Governor, Enugu State, Nigeria

African Finance Minister of the Year

  1. Bihi Iman Egeh – Minister of Finance, Somalia
  2. Mthuli Ncube – Minister of Finance & Economic Development, Zimbabwe
  3. Marial Ater – Minister of Finance and Planning, South Sudan
  4. Cheikh Diba – Minister of Finance and Budget, Senegal
  5. Ahmed Kouchouk – Minister of Finance, Egypt

Trade & Investment Promotion Agency of the Year

  1. General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI), Egypt
  2. Agency for Private Investment and Export Promotion, Angola
  3. Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA)
  4. National Investment Promotion Agency, Cameroon
  5. Agency for Investment and Export Development, Morocco

Central Bank Governor of the Year

  1. Mohamed Lemine Dhehby – Governor, Central Bank of Mauritania
  2. Manuel António Tiago Dias – Governor, National Bank of Angola
  3. Johnson Asiama – Governor, Bank of Ghana
  4. Rama Krishna Sithanen – Governor, Bank of Mauritius

Trade & Investment Minister of the Year

  1. Jumoke Oduwole – Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Nigeria
  2. Alimatou Shadiya Assouman – Minister of Industry and Trade, Benin
  3. Ahmed Samir – Minister of Trade and Industry, Egypt
  4. Kassahun Gofe – Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, Ethiopia
  5. Chipoka Mulenga – Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Zambia

African CEO of the Year

  1. Jeremy Awori – Group CEO, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI)
  2. Hien Yacouba Sié – Managing Director, Abidjan Port Authority, Côte d'Ivoire
  3. Dr. Armstrong Takang – CEO, Ministry of Finance Incorporated, Nigeria
  4. Patricia Adongo Ojangole – Managing Director, Uganda Development Bank Ltd.

Young Business Leader of the Year

  1. Mamotake Matekane – COO, MGC Group, Lesotho
  2. Martha Namundjebo-Tilahun – Co-Founder, United Africa Group, Namibia
  3. Mohamed Ahmed Abdulle – MD, Dakawou Transport Ltd., Kenya
  4. Ladi Delano – Co-CEO, Moove Africa, Nigeria

Africa CSR & Community Development Impact Award

  1. Ashanti Goldfields Corporation, Ghana
  2. Standard Chartered Bank, South Africa
  3. NNPC Limited, Nigeria
  4. Bamburi Cement Plc, Kenya
  5. Catoca Mining Company, Angola

African Brand of the Year

  1. Commercial International Bank (CIB), Egypt
  2. Managem Group, Morocco
  3. Bank Windhoek, Namibia
  4. Ethiopian Airlines

African Company of the Year

  1. Vodacom Group, South Africa
  2. Ghana Commercial Bank Plc
  3. Bidco Africa, Kenya
  4. Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing, Nigeria

Industry Personality of the Year

  1. Kennedy Bugane – CEO, African Bank, South Africa
  2. Jemal Ahmed Abdu – CEO, MIDROC Investment Group PLC, Ethiopia
  3. Ally Edha Awadh – CEO, Lake Oil Group, Tanzania
  4. Ferdinand Ngon Kemoum, Managing Director of Oragroup SA, Cameroon

Africa Business Integrity Leader Award

  1. Coris Bank International, Togo
  2. Arab Contractors, Egypt
  3. CCECC Nigeria Limited
  4. Société Ivoirienne de Raffinage (SIR), Côte d'Ivoire
  5. Moçambique Telecom, SA

African Tech & Digital Economy Leader of the Year

  1. Mastercard Africa
  2. MTN Group, South Africa
  3. Mascom Wireless, Botswana
  4. Safaricom, Kenya

Lifetime Achievement Award

  1. Emeka Offor – Founder, Chrome Group, Nigeria
  2. Baba Ahmadou Danpullo – Businessman, Cameroon
  3. Kwabena Kesse – CEO, Kessben Group of Companies, Ghana

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Leadership Magazine.

Media Enquiries:
Ehis Ayere
T: +44 (0) 20 3051 1883
E: ehis@africanleadership.co.uk

About African Leadership Magazine:
African Leadership Magazine is the flagship publication of the African Leadership Organisation (UK) Limited. For over 19 years, it has championed impactful leadership across Africa and amplified African opportunities on the global stage. Through its platforms—including Afro-positive content, trade facilitation, market entry solutions, public sector consulting, and business networking events—the magazine plays a pivotal role in fostering sustainable development and positive change across the continent.

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Under-20 Team Congratulated on Historic Victory in Egypt

Location: Sport

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture extends its warmest congratulations to South Africa's Under-20 national soccer team on their historic triumph at the Afcon Championship. This remarkable achievement marks a first-time victory for our young talented soccer stars.

Chairperson Mr Joe McGluwa praised the team's success, highlighting the impressive wins against Nigeria in the semi-finals and Morocco in the final. “This victory serves as a foundation for future soccer stars and their successes. Having tasted triumph at this level , the South African Football Association (SAFA) should take the opportunity to build on this momentum and create programmes to empower our youth and ensure that excellence is rewarded,” the Chairperson said.

The committee commends the young players for their formidable spirit and courage,particularly as they were playing away from home.

“We urge SAFA to incentivise and reward the remarkable achievements of our Under-20national team. Recognising and rewarding excellence will not only motivate these young players but also foster a culture of success in South African football. Let's celebrate and support our young talent after this historic win,” Mr McGluwa said.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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Africa Data Centres Welcomes Gold Synergy’s Self-Cooling Rack Deployment at the CPT1 Facility in Cape Town

Location: Business
Africa Data Centres

Africa Data Centres (www.AfricaDataCentres.com), a business of Cassava Technologies, is pleased to announce the successful deployment of a self-cooling rack by Gold Synergy at its CPT1 facility in Cape Town. This installation represents a significant advancement in the evolution of high-density computing in Africa and supports Africa Data Centres' commitment to sustainable, efficient infrastructure solutions. 

The innovative self-cooling rack, commissioned in January 2025, is designed to meet the increasing demand for high-performance computing while minimising energy consumption. As the region experiences rising power and cooling challenges driven by artificial intelligence, big data, and enterprise workloads, self-contained cooling technologies like this offer a smart and scalable solution. 

Gold Synergy brings a wealth of expertise in advanced cooling solutions. The deployment at CPT1 demonstrates the viability of self-cooling racks in African conditions, setting the stage for broader collaboration in supporting regional ESG objectives. 

“Our collaboration with Gold Synergy introduces new efficiencies in high-density hosting,” said Adil El Youssefi, CEO of Africa Data Centres. “By integrating this cutting-edge cooling solution at CPT1, we are creating a model for how data centres in Africa can scale intelligently while remaining aligned with global sustainability targets. The success of this deployment positions both Africa Data Centres and Gold Synergy to expand CDU-based cooling technologies across the region, further supporting Africa's growing need for next-generation infrastructure.” 

“Our self-cooling rack solution is a game-changing approach for high-density computing environments,” said Fortune Utubor, Executive at Gold Synergy. “This deployment reflects our shared commitment to energy efficiency and operational excellence.” 

South Africa remains a strategic digital hub for the continent. With its reliable infrastructure, favourable location, and increasing demand for cloud and AI services, the country plays a pivotal role in the digital transformation of Africa. As enterprises move mission-critical applications closer to home, infrastructure capable of supporting such workloads efficiently becomes essential. 

The deployment not only increases the CPT1 facility's hosting capacity without requiring major infrastructure modifications, but it also reinforces Africa Data Centres' position as the continent's leading carrier-neutral data centre provider. The new solution helps reduce reliance on traditional cooling systems and contributes to operational cost savings for both clients and facility operators. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Data Centres.

ADC boilerplate :
Africa Data Centres owns and operates Africa's largest network of interconnected, carrier and cloud-neutral data centre facilities. Bringing international experts to the pan-African market, Africa Data Centres is a trusted partner for rapid and secure data centre services and interconnections across Africa. Strategically located in South, East and West Africa our world-class data centre facilities provide a home for all business-critical data for Africa's small, medium and large enterprises and global hyperscale customers. https://www.AfricaDataCentres.com  

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Unlocking Africa’s $180 Billion Digital Trade Economy

Location: Business
dmg Nigeria events

The future of African trade is digital, and it's unfolding. From Dakar to Durban, a quiet but steady transformation is taking shape. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), global trade hit a record $33 trillion in 2024, with developing economies, including Africa, playing a growing role in that expansion.

The African Free Continental Trade Area offers the largest free market, including 55 countries, a population of 1.3 billion and a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion. The opportunities are vast, yet the strategies required for industrial players to source, move and manage raw materials and finished goods remain a challenge.

“The continent's digital economy is projected to reach $180 billion by 2025, up from $115 billion in 2020, thus contributing significantly to Africa's GDP, creating new job opportunities, and expanding regional trade. Digital trade is transforming the continent's economic landscape, creating new opportunities for real economic growth, productive job creation, and poverty reduction.” H.E. Dr Jumoke Oduwole, Minister, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade & Investment

“Building on this rapid expansion, our focus must shift from isolated digital initiatives to a fully integrated ecosystem that streamlines every step of trade—sourcing, supplying, logistics and payments. By integrating these functionalities on a single platform, Matta enables manufacturers to navigate sourcing headaches and suppliers to manage cross-border complexities with confidence and unlocks new markets in Africa in real time. This holistic approach is what will transform digital trade's potential into tangible, inclusive economic growth across Africa.” Mudiaga Mowoe, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Matta.

Launched to enable sustainable African economies, Matta's integrated ecosystem—today powered by the Matta digital marketplace (www.Matta.Trade) and the Flux logistics management tool, with Oxide Finance (Matta's upcoming trade-financing and cross-border payments platform) arriving soon—empowers manufacturers and suppliers across food & beverage, home & personal care, paints & coatings, agro-processing, automotive assembly, textiles, construction, and beyond with truly end-to-end sourcing, movement, and settlement. Rather than supplanting traditional trade networks, this unified platform amplifies human partnerships through real-time visibility, traceability, and seamless transactions.

This evolution in digital trade and industrial growth is one of the key conversations that will take centre stage at the West Africa Industrialisation, Manufacturing & Trade (West Africa IMT) Summit and Exhibition, set to take place from October 21-23, 2025. West Africa IMT is a high-level platform for government leaders, investors, manufacturers, and technology innovators to align practical solutions and policy frameworks for accelerating Africa's industrial transformation.

Matta, Africa's integrated ecosystem for industrial trade, will join other industry stakeholders across the continent at West Africa IMT 2025 to discuss the potential opportunities for industrial growth in the West African sub-region. As manufacturers increasingly seek more innovative, more efficient ways to power production beyond physical infrastructure and policy support, there's an urgent need for systems that simplify sourcing, enhance transparency, and ensure supply chain reliability. Matta addresses these challenges by connecting African manufacturers directly to verified suppliers of raw materials and commodities, ensuring business continuity in an environment where procurement bottlenecks often slow production timelines.

Digital platforms address multiple challenges simultaneously: procurement complexities, logistics coordination, payment processing, and data-based planning. By integrating these capabilities into industrial operations, West African economies can accelerate development timelines and establish competitive manufacturing centres that participate effectively in global markets.

As African nations chart independent economic paths, digital trade platforms like Matta will significantly influence how quickly and effectively new industrial capabilities develop. The transformation in African trade is already underway, with effects that will continue to reshape economic relationships for years to come.

West Africa Industrialisation, Manufacturing & Trade Summit & Exhibition

21-23 October 2025 I Landmark Centre | Lagos | Nigeria

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of dmg Nigeria events.

Contact Details:
Roshan Jan-Mahomed
Head of Marketing – Africa
Email: info@westafricaimt.com
www.WestAfricaIMT.com

About the West Africa Industrialisation, Manufacturing & Trade Summit and Exhibition 2025:
The Pre-eminent Global Gathering Driving West Africa's Industrial Revolution

The West Africa Industrialisation, Manufacturing and Trade (West Africa IMT) Summit and Exhibition will unite the industrialisation ecosystem, including energy, finance, infrastructure, manufacturing, raw materials, logistics/supply chain, technology, trade and security, to accelerate a sustainable industrial revolution for West Africa. As governments across the region have declared industrialisation as a key priority, the Strategic Summit will feature the visions from Heads of government seeking public–private partnerships to drive industrial revolution across the region. Decisive action is at the core of the agenda, providing solutions for sustainable resource valorisation and opening up trade pathways for economic development and prosperity.

Participation is expected from across the global industrialisation value chain including the following industries: Aerospace, Agriculture, Automotive, Chemicals, Construction, Energy & Utilities, FCMG, Heavy Industries, ICT & Electronics, Infrastructure, Logistics & Transportation, Machine & Equipment, Maritime, Medical, Mining, Plastics & Rubber, Pharmaceuticals, Retail, Technology Solution Providers, Textiles, Water & Utilities.

●        15+ African ministers

●        25+ countries represented from around the globe

●        70+ expert industry speakers

●        250+ exhibiting companies

●        500+ conference delegates

●        2,500+ attendees

About dmg Nigeria events:
dmg Nigeria events is a subsidiary of dmg events. dmg events is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Daily Mail and General Trust plc (DMGT), an international portfolio of information, media and events businesses.

DMGT manages a diverse, multinational portfolio of companies, with total revenues of around £1 billion, that provide businesses and consumers with compelling information, analysis, insight, events, news and entertainment. Its venture capital business, dmg ventures, holds minority stakes in early-stage businesses and focuses particularly on disruptive consumer media propositions.

Headquartered in Dubai, UAE since 1989 with offices in Canada, Egypt, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Thailand and the UK. dmg events is an international exhibition, conference and intelligence company, attracting more than 1,000,000 attendees to a portfolio of over 80 events each year.

This global portfolio works closely with key stakeholders across the industry to facilitate pragmatic dialogue, serving as a platform for the latest discussions at the forefront of change.

For more information on dmg events, visit: www.dmgevents.com

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Adv Duma Nokwe honoured for fighting against apartheid

Location: News

Adv Duma Nokwe honoured for fighting against apartheid

President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid tribute to the late Advocate Duma Nokwe for dedicating his life to the liberation of South Africa from the tyranny of apartheid.

“In court, Duma Nokwe was an advocate for justice. Outside the court, in the streets of our nation, in the capitals of the world, he was a respected and beloved advocate for freedom,” the President said on Saturday.

The late struggle veteran and human rights lawyer was reburied in West Park Cemetery, Johannesburg, with his wife, Vuyiswa Malangabi-Nokwe who passed away in 2008.

Nokwe passed away in Zambia in 1978, at the age of 50. He had lived in exile since 1963. His mortal remains were repatriated to South Africa in 2024.

“Duma Nokwe’s legal expertise was brought to bear in shaping the views of the liberation movement around constitutionalism and democracy. 

“He was a mentor to young black lawyers, and today this noble legacy lives on with the Duma Nokwe Group, the advocates’ chambers,” President Ramaphosa said.

In recognition of the eminent position he occupied in the legal profession, the President on Friday honoured him with the posthumous conferral of the honorary title of Senior Counsel (Silk).

“In doing so, we are correcting a grave injustice done to one of our foremost legal practitioners. We are making a declaration that his legal legacy did not end in exile, nor does it end today. 

“We are confirming our belief in his conviction that the law is to be used not merely to secure courtroom victories, but to achieve profound, lasting change,” the President said.

He described Nokwe’s voice as emphatic, compelling and sincere – resonating as powerfully through the halls of the United Nations as it did across the airwaves of Radio Freedom.

“He wielded his words as instruments of liberation. He sought to persuade, to empower and to inspire.

“As a person, as an activist, as a leader, he was known for his humility and understanding, for his integrity and his unyielding commitment to the cause of humanity,” the President said.

Nokwe was a youth activist who rose to become the Secretary General of the African National Congress.

“The apartheid regime tried in vain to thwart his activism. He was jailed, banned and restricted. He was dismissed as a teacher for his involvement in the Defiance of Unjust Laws Campaign. Yet nothing could crush his spirit nor temper his determination. 

“He decided to enter the legal profession, believing in the power of the law as a shield for the vulnerable, as an instrument of change. He entered a profession that was designed to exclude black people. And yet he persevered, becoming the first black advocate to be admitted to the Johannesburg Bar,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President noted that the late George Bizos said that Nokwe’s admission to the bar was a moment that cracked the façade of white legal supremacy. 

“Even as he reached this pinnacle, the regime continued to hound him, refusing to allow him to take chambers with his white colleagues in Johannesburg. He would not be cowed. He used his legal skills to defend those who stood up against tyranny,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President called on South Africa to embrace all that Nokwe represented and embodied.

“At this time, when we strive to make a fundamental break with the many ghosts of our past, let us hold to the values that defined him and that make us so unique as a people: courage, empathy, understanding, tolerance. 

“We still have many more journeys to undertake. Our freedom is not yet fully formed. Let us affirm that as South Africans we are all of the same soil. 

“We will never renege on the promise of equality, justice and freedom for all, as promised by our Constitution,” the President said.

He said government will continue to build a South Africa in which no-one – neither black nor white, neither woman nor man – feels themselves a pariah in the land of their birth. 

“We owe this to the spirit and legacy of the great Duma Nokwe, who stood for non-racialism throughout his life. May his spirit rise. May it guide us in the hard work that lies ahead and may it inspire us. 

“Nokwe was a revolutionary. He was a servant of the people. He was a man of unwavering principle, of great courage and of unmatched selflessness.

“As we honour Nokwe today, let us rededicate ourselves to fulfilling his dream of a non-racial, non-sexist South Africa that will forever remain democratic and free,” the President said. - SAnews.gov.za

 

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SA participates in Education World Forum

Location: News

SA participates in Education World Forum

The Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, is to lead a South African Post-School Education and Training (PSET) sector delegation to the Education World Forum (EWF) 2025 taking place in London.

“The Education World Forum offers a valuable platform for collaboration among global education leaders. By sharing innovative practices and insights, we can strengthen our higher education system, equipping youth with essential skills to drive economic growth and reduce unemployment,” the Deputy Minister said on Sunday.

EWF 2025 is the world’s largest annual gathering of education leaders and ministers. Gondwe is scheduled to participate in the event from 18 to 21 May 2025.

The Deputy Minister will champion South Africa’s commitment to equitable access and quality education for all by taking part in key discussions and engagements, at the EWF, relating to themes such as girls' education, preventing gender-based violence, fostering public-private partnerships to drive innovation in education, and promoting vocational education and skills development as pathways for youth employment and economic growth.

“Deputy Minister Gondwe has expressed hope and excitement that the insights gained at EWF 2025 will help provide solutions and guidance for some challenges facing the local higher education sector,” the Ministry of Higher Education and Training said. -SAnews.gov.za

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Funding skills training programmes critical for service delivery

Location: News

Funding skills training programmes critical for service delivery

The Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, Sello Seitlholo, has emphasised the importance of funding skills training programmes in the water sector to improve service delivery at municipal level.

“We must continue to make every effort to fund, support and incentivise such programmes to ensure that we harness the skills we need to improve the state of our municipalities,” Seitlholo said on Saturday.

The Deputy Minister was addressing the five-year celebration of the Young Engineers Changemakers Programme (YECP) organised by Water Research Commission (WRC) in partnership with the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology.

The YECP was launched five years ago to empower a new generation of municipal engineers in efforts to contribute to sustainable service delivery.

It also provides opportunities for young South African engineers to partake in testing potential innovative water and sanitation solutions in real world sites and to gain the necessary skills required to drive municipalities of the future which are sustainable, liveable and builds socio-technical infrastructure and services.

To date, 50 young engineers from 21 municipalities around the country have been trained over the last five years.

The Deputy Minister congratulated the young engineers and reminded them that their core purpose was to make a positive contribution in arresting the decline of engineering skills in the municipalities. 

“We meet here to celebrate both the milestone of this important programme as well as to take stock of its potential and future in helping us address the challenges which threaten to cripple our democracy. We cannot fix South Africa without fixing municipalities. 

“For us to fix municipalities, requisite skills and capacity should be taken into consideration and should be prioritised. It is for this reason that we should acknowledge the joint efforts by the WRC and Department of Science, Innovation and Technology to empower the engineers,” Seitlholo said.

He said a cause of failing infrastructure was a lack of capacity and skills in municipalities, particularly engineering skills. 

The Deputy Minister highlighted that municipal water and sanitation services are deteriorating, as it was revealed by the recent Green Drop, Blue Drop and No Drop assessment reports released by the Department of Water and Sanitation. 

Sixty four out of 144 Water Services Authorities (WSAs) scored ‘critical’ on average across their water supply systems and/or wastewater systems in the 2023 Blue Drop and 2022 Green Drop assessments. 

“This is a bleak sign that municipalities, constituting a majority of WSAs, are in crisis. If the state of governance in municipalities does not improve and we do not capacitate municipalities with skilled engineers and planners, we will face a crippling water crisis. And unlike with our electricity crisis, water is a resource that cannot be replaced,” he said.

The Deputy Minister said the YEPC was a positive initiative that will help turn things around as municipalities are in dire need of capacity and skills. 

He said the department and other sector role players will continue to provide targeted support to local government through various support and intervention programmes aimed at improving water services. - SAnews.gov.za

 

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Minister Kubayi travels to Ghana

Location: News

Minister Kubayi travels to Ghana

The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, will travel to the Republic of Ghana to participate in a high-level Retreat on the Kampala Amendments and International Criminal Justice.

“The Retreat will bring together Ministers of Justice and senior officials from all 33 African States Parties to the International Criminal Court (ICC), alongside representatives from the ICC Presidency, the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), the ICC Trust Fund for Victims, senior African Union officials, and international legal experts,” the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development said on Sunday.

Her visit is scheduled to take place from 19 to 21 May 2025.

The event follows the successful pilot retreat in Johannesburg in October 2024, which raised awareness and fostered a sense of ownership among African States Parties to advocate for a crime of aggression regime that is both fair and legitimate and began the process of an amendment proposal being submitted by African States.

“The Kampala Amendments on the Crime of Aggression are a set of legal changes adopted in 2010 at the Review Conference of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), held in Kampala, Uganda.

“These amendments define the Crime of Aggression and establish the conditions under which the ICC can exercise jurisdiction over it. An act of aggression includes using armed force by one state against another in violation of the United Nations (UN) Charter, such as, invasion, military occupation, annexation by force, bombardment, or blockade,” the Ministry explained.

The meeting in Johannesburg laid the groundwork for an Africa-led amendment proposal and reaffirmed the continent’s commitment to a fair and legitimate international criminal justice framework.

“South Africa remains a committed advocate for international legal accountability. Minister Kubayi’s participation highlights the country’s support for multilateralism, the fight against impunity, and the advancement of an inclusive and balanced global justice system,” the Ministry said.

Organised in collaboration with the Ministries of Justice of Ghana, Sierra Leone, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Accra retreat will build on the Johannesburg outcomes and further deliberate on the amendment proposal submitted by the Group of Friends (GoF).

“The goal is to finalise a unified African position on the Kampala Amendments ahead of discussions at the Assembly of States Parties. The Ministry welcomes this opportunity for meaningful engagement and continental collaboration as African States continue to shape a credible and effective international criminal justice system.” - SAnews.gov.za

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Colder weather expected next week

Location: News

Colder weather expected next week

South Africans can brace themselves for cold weather conditions in the new week as two cold frontal systems are expected to develop from Monday until Friday.

According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), the two cold frontal systems are expected to develop from 19 until 23 May 2025 with a high likelihood of disrupting the current mild to warm weather conditions that has been prevailing for some days.

“On Monday, 19 May, a cold front will make landfall over the south-western parts of the country, resulting in wet, cold, and windy conditions over the western parts of the Western Cape. While this system will not be intense, it serves as a precursor to the more significant weather system that will follow the next day.

“On Tuesday, 20 May, the above-mentioned weather conditions will spread to the east, affecting the Namakwa District of the Northern Cape and the Eastern Cape,” the weather service said.

This continued impact of the weather conditions will be due to a well-developed cold front, resulting in isolated to scattered showers and rain. 

Rainfall accumulations are expected to range between 15 to 25 mm, with a possibility of reaching 30 to 50 mm in mountainous areas.

“The persistent and continuous rainy conditions may lead to localised floods, particularly in areas with poor drainage and low-lying regions. Strong and gusty westerly to north-westerly winds, with wind speeds averaging between 55 and 65 km/h, are expected across the Western Cape, Northern Cape, and the Eastern Cape more especially over the interior.

“Possible impacts might result in outdoor activities being disrupted with a high likelihood of localised damage to infrastructure, uprooted trees, increased traveling time on the roads, problems for high sided vehicles, especially along the national routes through the provinces as well as disruptions to power lines,” SAWS said.

For maritime operators and coastal residents, westerly to north-westerly gale-force winds (65-75 km/h) are expected along the coastline, particularly from Alexander Bay through to Plettenberg Bay. 

These high winds will result in very rough seas on Tuesday and Wednesday, leading to sea conditions that could impact small vessels and coastal activities. 

There is also a possibility of abnormal waves along the south-eastern coast, with wave heights of 5 metres to 6.5 metres, occasionally peaking at 7 metres, with a 10 seconds wave period on Wednesday.

“In addition, freezing levels are expected to drop considerably, creating conditions favourable for some snowfall over high-lying areas and a general drop in temperatures. These very cold conditions are expected to spread to the central and the eastern parts of the country from Tuesday late evening, persisting until Friday morning, 23 May 2025,” SAWS said.

The weather service will continue to monitor any further developments relating to the weather systems and will issue subsequent updates as required. 

Updates may be followed on X (@SAWeatherServic), Facebook (South African Weather Service) or other SAWS-supported social media platforms. - SAnews.gov.za

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Seven people arrested for Clarens ATM bombing

Location: News

Seven people arrested for Clarens ATM bombing

Police have arrested seven suspects in connection with an ATM bombing that happened in Clarens in the Free State earlier this week.

The seven individuals, aged between 24 and 36, were arrested on Saturday in Ficksburg after the South African Police Service (SAPS) spotted a Toyota Fortuner parked near an ATM at about 1am.

“Two males were seen tampering with the ATM. Upon noticing the police presence, the suspects attempted to flee the scene. A vehicle pursuit ensued, culminating in the successful apprehension of the Fortuner’s five occupants, including one woman,” the SAPS said in a statement.

All suspects are foreign nationals. Four of them have been confirmed as undocumented immigrants. 

The suspects were wanted for allegedly bombing an ATM located at a petrol station in Clarens on Tuesday.

On Tuesday, four suspects were seen near an ATM located at a petrol station in Clarens. Moments later, an explosion occurred, followed by gunfire. Upon receiving the alert, members of the Clarence SAPS responded swiftly.

“Preliminary investigations confirmed that explosives had been used to destroy the ATM and an undisclosed sum of money was stolen.

“Initial reports pointed to four suspects travelling in a blue Toyota Fortuner with Gauteng registration plates. This vital information was immediately circulated and a coordinated manhunt was launched,” SAPS said.

The blue Toyota Fortuner has been seized as evidence in the ongoing investigation.

“The suspects will appear in the Clarens and Ficksburg Magistrate’s Courts in due course. The provincial Serious, Violent and Murder Unit has taken over the investigation, focusing on charges of business robbery and other possible related offenses. Further inquiries are ongoing to determine any links to additional criminal activities,” the police said. - SAnews.gov.za

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Struggle icon, Duma Nokwe, awarded honorary title of Senior Counsel

Location: News

Struggle icon, Duma Nokwe, awarded honorary title of Senior Counsel

President Cyril Ramaphosa has posthumously awarded struggle veteran human rights lawyer, Advocate Dumalisile (Duma) Philemon Pearce Nokwe, the honorary title of Senior Counsel (SC or Silk) for the Republic of South Africa.

Nokwe passed away in 1978 while in exile in Zambia.

“The posthumous honour bestowed on the first African advocate of the Supreme Court is a high honour that recognises Advocate Nokwe’s expertise and contribution to the legal profession.

“President Ramaphosa has conferred the status of Senior Counsel on Adv Nokwe in line with the provisions of the Legal Practice Act of 2014, which governs this status and sets out the criteria for its conferral.

“In this instance, the Legal Practice Council and the Duma Nokwe Group of Advocates made an application to the President for Advocate Nokwe’s posthumous appointment as a Senior Counsel,” the Presidency said in a statement.

Nokwe’s remains were repatriated to South Africa in 2024 and his reburial will be held on Saturday.

“The President has bestowed this conferral on the late Adv Nokwe on the eve of the esteemed legal practitioner’s reburial in West Park Cemetery, Johannesburg, tomorrow, Saturday, 17 May 2025. He will be reburied along with his wife, Mrs Vuyiswa Malangabi-Nokwe who passed away in 2008.

“President Ramaphosa has accorded Advocate Nokwe a Special Provincial Official Funeral and the President will deliver a tribute at tomorrow’s ceremony,” the statement read.

Struggle icon

Nokwe held a BSc degree from the University of Fort Hare and a diploma in education, which he used to foray into teaching in Krugersdorp.

However, his political activities led his imprisonment during the Defiance Campaign aimed at the apartheid government in 1952.

He was banned and restricted in 1953 by the racist government following his participation in the World Youth Festival and visits to the then Soviet Union, China and Britain.

“He subsequently studied law, obtained an LLB degree and became the first black advocate to be admitted to the Johannesburg Society of Advocates. The Native Affairs Department of the time debarred him from taking chambers with his white colleagues in the Johannesburg city centre and this development led to Adv Nokwe devoting himself to the liberation struggle.

“He was put on trial for treason and was subjected to banning orders, arrests and assault by the police,” the presidency said.

His political activism and fight for the freedom of South Africans led to him having to leave the country.

“He was elected Secretary-General of the African National Congress in 1958 and mobilised communities against apartheid until the underground leadership directed him to leave South Africa in January 1963.

“Advocate Nokwe campaigned against the apartheid state on global platforms including those of the Organisation of African Unity and African Union and remained an activist until he passed in Lusaka in January 1978,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Concern raised over Lesotho Water Project non-compliance

Location: News

Concern raised over Lesotho Water Project non-compliance

Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina has expressed concern over wastewater management non-compliance by a contractor involved in the Lesotho Highlands Water Project Phase 2 (LHWP2) which is currently under construction in Lesotho.

This comes after the reports that contractor responsible for the construction of the Polihali Transfer Tunnel, Kopano Ke Matla (KKM), failed to adhere to regulations governing effluent discharge.

In light of this, the Department of Water and Sanitation convened an urgent meeting on Wednesday, with South Africa’s delegation to the Lesotho Highlands Water Commission (LHWC) and the Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA), to receive a full briefing on the matter.
The contractor has since been suspended on-site by the implementing agency, the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA).

In a statement on Thursday, the department confirmed the suspension of Kopano Ke Matla following several warnings of non-compliance issued to the contractor for polluting water courses with raw effluent during tunnel construction.

Through its engineer, the department said LHDA had issued a targeted suspension of works to the Polihali Transfer Tunnel contractor, KKM, due to non-compliance with contractual environmental obligations, specifically regarding wastewater management.

“The suspension was prompted by persistent failures to meet treatment standards across multiple sites, despite prior warnings and formal Non-Conformance Reports emanating from concerns on the inadequate management and treatment of wastewater and effluent generated during tunnel construction activities.

“This measure was implemented to uphold environmental, health, and safety standards on a nationally and regionally significant infrastructure project and did not constitute a project-wide shut down. Contractual enforcement of environmental obligations is standard and necessary on infrastructure projects of this scale to protect the environment, communities, and the workers,” the department explained.

Due to the suspension, the contractor was compelled to send home approximately 1 300 workers as a precautionary step to avoid further environmental risk and protect worker safety.

The department revealed that the contractor has been given until 26 May 2025 to submit a comprehensive remedial plan and compliance roadmap, with clear and measurable milestones and interim controls to address the deficiencies in wastewater treatment works.

The suspension will not impact tunnel’s overall completion date, as the project is currently ahead of schedule.

Work continues in unaffected areas of the project, including the Polihali and Katse zones, to minimise any broader delays.

“The LHDA whose role is to safeguard the public, the workforce, and the environment through responsible oversight of contractors and the Engineer, continues to ensure that interim containment and treatment measures are in place to avoid further environmental risk while the main upgrades are pursued,” the department said.

“The Ministry has since directed the South African delegation, TCTA and the Department of Water and Sanitation to reinforce monitoring of the projects, to ensure no further delays occur.

The LHWP Phase 2 includes the construction of an approximately 165m high Concrete Faced Rockfill Dam at Polihali, downstream of the confluence of the Khubelu and Sengu (Orange) Rivers and a 38km long concrete-lined gravity tunnel connecting the Polihali reservoir to the Katse reservoir.

Other Phase 2 activities include construction of the Senqu bridge, accommodation, power lines and telecommunication. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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South Africa clarifies position on Tanzanian banana imports

Location: News

South Africa clarifies position on Tanzanian banana imports

The Department of Agriculture has dismissed speculations regarding an alleged ban on the import of bananas from Tanzania into South Africa.

This follows recent media reports suggesting that Tanzanian authorities are considering banning South African agricultural imports, based on speculations that South Africa does not permit banana imports from Tanzania.

In a statement issued this week, the department stressed that there is a strong and cooperative relationship between the two countries regarding agricultural trade, and that South Africa has never imposed a ban on banana imports from Tanzania.

The department explained that the National Plant Protection Organisation of South Africa (NPPOZA), operating under the department’s authority, hase previously been working closely with its Tanzanian counterpart to negotiate market access for various plant and plant product commodities between the two nations.

“Tanzanian avocados have been exported to South Africa over the past four years and have a counter seasonal advantage to local produce, which closes the gap for local consumption. The two technical counterparts from both South Africa and Tanzania are currently in negotiations to facilitate market access to allow the safe trade of banana from Tanzania into South Africa,” the department said. 

According to the department, in February 2025, the department received an official market access application from Tanzania to export bananas to South Africa. This triggered the scientific pest risk analysis (PRA) process by NPPOZA, which is a mandatory step in determining phytosanitary import requirements to prevent the spread of harmful pests and diseases.

“The processes will be conducted in accordance with relevant phytosanitary regulatory frameworks and relevant standards of the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC). It is mutually beneficial for both nations to allow the PRA process to proceed, so that scientifically justified phytosanitary import conditions can be developed, conditions which aim to safeguard biosecurity,” the department explained. 

The department highlighted the critical need to ensure biosecurity in agricultural trade, citing the example of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4 (TR4), the most destructive banana disease recorded in history, which poses a serious threat to the banana industry globally.

Once the envisaged PRA process has been concluded, the department said, a draft phytosanitary import requirements will be finalised and officially notify Tanzanian authorities. Only after both countries agree with the drafted phytosanitary import requirements, will the importation of bananas from Tanzania commence.

“As a requirement and in accordance with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and IPPC’s international prescripts, when dealing with agricultural trade matters, parties officially notify each other in case there will be a ban or lifting of a ban of a particular imported produce, or product,” the department said. 

The department reiterated that South Africa has never issued any ban on Tanzanian banana imports, as market access had never been formally granted or denied. South Africa has never received any official notification or intent from Tanzanian authorities indicating a ban on South African exports. – SAnews.gov.za

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SIU further cracks down on Lotteries Commission corruption

Location: News

SIU further cracks down on Lotteries Commission corruption

The Special Tribunal has granted an order to the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) allowing the anti-corruption unit to freeze assets worth some R24.8 million related to alleged misappropriation of a National Lotteries Commission (NLC) grant.

According to the SIU, the order freezes two vehicles and a high-value Powerstar vehicle allegedly bought with money that was intended to fund the 2016 Rio Olympics “Roadshow Send-Off” campaign.

“The judgment follows an SIU investigation that uncovered a coordinated scheme involving the Mshandukani Foundation NPO, registered just four months before receiving the grant.

“In July 2016, the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee [SASCOC] applied for funding on behalf of Mshandukani Foundation, claiming it would support Olympic awareness events nationwide. Despite the foundation’s lack of track record, the NLC approved R24.98 million within six days,” the SIU said.

The money was then transferred to the non-profit organisations (NPO’s) accounts in three tranches.

Within days those funds were allegedly diverted to entities linked to NLC officials, including:

•    R15.35 million to Ironbridge Travel Agency, linked to former NLC chief operations officer (COO) Phillemon Letwaba, used for cars, goats, and personal expenses.
•    R7.23 million to Mshandukani Holdings controlled by foundation member Mashudu Shandukani.
•    Direct payments of R450 000 to Letwaba and R600 000 to former NLC legal manager, Tsietsi Maselwa.

“The order of the Special Tribunal is part of implementing SIU investigation outcomes and consequence management to recover financial losses suffered by State institutions because of corruption or negligence.

“The SIU is empowered to institute a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during investigations caused by corruption, fraud, or maladministration. 

“In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU refers any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za

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SASSA warns against social grant scam

Location: News

SASSA warns against social grant scam

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has dismissed claims suggesting that double grant payment will be made in June.

“These reports are untrue and should be rejected with the contempt they deserve,” SASSA national spokesperson, Paseka Letsatsi said.

In a statement on Friday, SASSA appealed to beneficiaries not to expect any double payment in June.

In line with the Ministry of Finance’s Policy Statement in March, Letsatsi said grant increases were announced and came into effect in April, and there will be another increase again in October 2025.

Any other increase not announced by credible and relevant authorities should be treated as lies,” Letsatsi said.

SASSA has also disputed reports claiming that "new rules could affect your pension” from 10 June 2025. 

“On 30 April 2025, SASSA announced verification process only for targeted grant beneficiaries in the May 2025 payment run to encourage them to update their information at SASSA offices. The targeted beneficiaries were those who use alternative forms of identification other than the standard 13-digit South African identity number to receive their social grants.

“The other beneficiaries that are targeted include those identified through the bulk means test process, to check if they have some income that flows into other bank accounts that they did not disclose to SASSA. We appeal to our beneficiaries to only rely on credible sources of information on our official social media pages,” Letsatsi said.

Before anyone can share any information pertaining to social grants, they must first verify its authenticity to avoid disseminating false information that may cause anxiety and stress to our beneficiaries, he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Ministerial Forum for Political Dialogue Between the French Republic and the Republic of South Africa

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation
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  1. The 9th Session of the Ministerial Forum for Political Dialogue between the Republic of France and the Republic of South Africa was held in la Celle Saint-Cloud, France, on 16 May 2025.
  2. The French and South African delegations were led respectively by Their Excellencies Mr Jean-Noël BARROT, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic, and Mr Ronald Ozzy LAMOLA, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa.
  3. The talks reflected the warm and cordial relations of cooperation between the two countries. Views were exchanged on bilateral, regional and international issues of common interest.

On bilateral matters:

  1. The Ministers expressed their satisfaction with the improved level of cooperation in the fields of basic and higher education, science and culture, environment, electricity and energy, trade and investment, transport and development and cyber criminality. The two parties highlighted the need for both countries to develop plans of action for the effective implementation of existing bilateral agreements.
  2. The two parties welcomed the ongoing negotiations and significant progress made in finalising bilateral agreements pertaining to cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, transport, protection of Crozet and Prince Edward Islands Marine Protected Areas, maritime search and rescue as well as the creation of a Joint Ministerial Commission on international relations.
  3. The South African side expressed its continued gratitude to the French Republic for the numerous scholarship opportunities afforded to young South Africans to pursue educational opportunities in France. Both countries would continue to explore opportunities for further education and training, as well as the exchange of students and academics.
  4. To facilitate joint business trainings in South Africa and France, at the benefit of both countries, Their Excellencies Ministers Barrot and Lamola discussed a technical agreement in the field of Cooperation on Labour and Employment for Graduates and Young Professionals. The Ministers welcomed the development and look forward to the opportunities that will be created by the signature of the agreement.
  5. The South African side highlighted the important role played by France in terms of solidarity partnerships, particularly through the Just Energy Transition partnership (JET-P) and the Team Europe Initiative Manufacturing African Vaccines+ (MAV+). Both countries underlined the need for the JET-P to be continued and to contribute to South Africa's transition towards a decarbonized energy mix, in line with the objectives of the Paris Agreement.

On regional and international matters:

  1. The Ministers exchanged views on regional African issues of common interest, particularly the situation in Mozambique, the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and Sudan. On Eastern-DRC, they agreed to pursue convergence of the various diplomatic efforts, towards a lasting and sustainable solution to the conflict.
  2. The two parties exchanged views on the current geopolitical environment and agreed on the need to uphold multilateralism, and a rules-based multilateral system based on international law, in line with the objectives and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. French Minister Jean-Noël BARROT congratulated South Africa for its G20 Presidency and reiterated France's support to its priorities, summarized in the theme “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability”, noting that these priorities converge with the objectives of the French initiative of the Paris Pact for People and the Planet.
  3. Both parties addressed global issues, including climate change and biodiversity protection. French Minister Jean-Noël BARROT underlined France's invitation to the President of the Republic of South Africa, HE Mr Matalema Cyril RAMAPHOSA, to attend the third United Nations Ocean Conference taking place in Nice, from 9 to 13 June 2025.
  4. Regarding the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, both Ministers highlighted the need for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in Ukraine and stressed the importance of supporting an inclusive and peaceful approach to the resolution of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Both Ministers advocated for a negotiated settlement, in line with the principles of the United Nations Charter, which include respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.
  5. The crisis situation in the Palestinian territories and the Middle East was discussed. The French side was briefed on the status of the case brought by South Africa against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). French Minister Jean-Noël BARROT invited South Africa to participate to the international conference on the Two-State solution, in June 2025 in New York, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia.
  6. The Ministers welcomed the upcoming visit by the Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Honourable Mr. Paul MASHATILE, to France from 21 May to 24 May 2025 a landmark opportunity to accelerate bilateral economic collaboration. Accompanied by a high-level delegation of key Ministers, this visit will spearhead the South Africa-France Investment Conference, a dynamic platform for fostering strategic partnerships and exploring innovative avenues for economic collaboration, organised by the Embassy of the Republic of South Africa in France with robust participation from leading South African and French business entities. The Ministers are confident that this pivotal engagement will unlock new opportunities, deepen investment flows, and amplify trade synergies between the two nations.
  7. His Excellency Ronald O. LAMOLA expressed his heartfelt appreciation and deep gratitude to His Excellency Mr Jean-Noël BARROT, to the Government of the French Republic and people of France, for the warm and fraternal welcome, as well as the kindness and attention extended to him and his delegation during their stay in France. He further looked forward to welcoming the Minister to South Africa for the G20 Summit.

Done in La Celle Saint-Cloud, France, on 16 May 2025

For the French Republic

 For the Republic of South Africa
H.E. Jean-Noël BARROT

Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs

 H.E. Ronald Ozzy LAMOLA

Minister of International Relations and Cooperation

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

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8 Life Terms for Rape of Businesswoman

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Security and Justice, Ms Jane Mananiso, welcomed the long-term sentence, of eight life terms, for convicted rapist Mr Moses Gqesha.

Mr Gqesha's charges included kidnapping, robbery with aggravating circumstances, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, theft, and multiple counts of rape to a gender-based violence activist, Ms Andisiwe Andy Kawa on 9 December 2010, at King's Beach in Summerstrand, Gqeberha. Mr Gqesha was arrested in 2020 for an unrelated incident and forensic evidence taken from Ms Kawa in 2010 linked him to the rape.

“Firstly, we want to applaud the South African Police Services for safeguarding the forensic evidence taken from Ms Kawa in 2010, that linked the rapist later to these heinous crimes. It was because of this act that this criminal will not face years behind bars and pay for his crimes,” said Ms Mananiso.

“Furthermore, we want to commend the National Prosecuting Authority for a successful prosecution especially because the accused denied the charges even after he was linked with forensic evidence. This is truly commendable.

“In a country that experienced high rates of gender-based violence and femicide, this is a victory for those thousands of women either still struggling for justice and those who fear speaking up against perpetrators. This is a sign that the wheels of justice do indeed turn,” emphasized Ms Mananiso.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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$10 Billion in African Energy Opportunities at IAE 2025

Location: Business
Energy Capital & Power

The Invest in African Energy Forum in Paris featured a standout session this year with the Premier Invest Deal Room, a platform that spotlighted over $10 billion worth of oil, gas and renewable energy projects seeking investment across Africa and the broader energy frontier.

“This is a platform to showcase interesting opportunities across Africa that we are advising on,” said Marcel Awasum, Head of Business Development for Premier Invest. “All of the deals we are advising on, we are also mobilizing capital for – from family offices to private equity in oil and gas – mostly from the Middle East, and some from Europe.”

The session featured 17 active deals spanning upstream, midstream, trading and renewable segments, underscoring the breadth of investment potential across the African continent and beyond. One of the flagship opportunities was the development of a 200,000-barrel-per-day crude oil refinery, seeking $4.8 billion in combined equity and debt to meet growing regional demand for refined products. Another deal sought $50 million through a 360-day revolving letter of credit facility to support the import of refined petroleum products.

Exploration and production prospects were also on the table, including a development project offering up to 40% participating interest to qualified investors, as well as an African oil and gas company seeking a $30 million capital injection, strategic partnership and offtake agreement to enhance its trade capacity and expand upstream.

Refining featured prominently among the deals, with one project calling for €2-5 billion to expand national capacity – open to debt, equity and strategic partnerships. A separate opportunity involved a $25 million equity investment in a highly prospective offshore Guyanese block, offering first-mover advantage with an estimated 400 million barrels of recoverable reserves.

Other ventures included the sale of a defunct Caribbean gas-to-liquids plant with a proven $50 million EBITDA when operational; an $18 million debt facility to drill additional wells in an active production field; and a fast-moving $360 million field development project already attracting soft commitments. The session also featured investment opportunities in the Republic of Congo, where a special purpose vehicle is seeking a co-investor for an M&A transaction involving producing assets; a $70 million fuel importation deal in Burundi; and a $200 million financing package to support the purchase of both crude and refined products in Ivory Coast.

The session concluded with five renewable energy projects seeking over $725 million in investment. This included $362 million for a 70 MW geothermal project in Kenya, $92 million for a 71 MW hybrid solar PV and wind project in Zambia, $87 million for a 100 MW solar PV project in South Africa, and two clean-gas projects – one in Benin (43 MW) and another in South Africa (100 MW) – seeking $84 million and $100 million, respectively. 

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

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Africa-First Energy Policies: Turning Vision Into Investment

Location: Business
African Energy Chamber

Africa is entering a pivotal phase in its energy transformation, characterized by a growing shift toward “Africa-first” energy policies. Despite contributing less than 4% to global emissions, Africa faces the world's most severe energy access challenges – with approximately 600 million people lacking electricity and 900 million without clean cooking solutions. With $47 billion in oil and gas capex in 2024 – a 23% increase year-over-year – Africa is proving its value as a competitive and resilient energy investment destination. This surge reflects growing investor appetite, strengthened policy frameworks and a renewed focus on project bankability.

In this context, African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025 – taking place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town – serves as the continent's leading forum for turning vision into tangible investment. With a focus on public-private partnerships (PPPs), blended finance and strategic energy projects, the event brings together government leaders, financiers, developers and technology providers to advance deals, foster collaboration and position Africa as a global energy leader.

Building Institutions for Local Investment

A wave of institutional and policy advancements is laying the groundwork for increased local investment in energy. A key milestone is the establishment of the Africa Energy Bank (AEB) by the African Petroleum Producers' Organization (APPO) and Afreximbank, with an initial capital of $5 billion. Headquartered in Abuja and set to launch in June 2025, the AEB will finance oil and gas infrastructure projects, serving as a bold step toward regional energy self-sufficiency and resource sovereignty.

At the same time, the African Development Bank (AfDB) is supporting long-term energy planning. In Algeria, the AfDB has launched a strategic dialogue to shape the 2025–2030 Country Strategy Paper, aligning national goals with sustainable, diversified energy development.

In South Africa, the success of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program (REIPPPP) illustrates how structured procurement can generate market certainty. The latest round secured 1,760 MW of solar PV capacity backed by R31.4 billion ($1.7 billion) in investment — with 49% local ownership and 46% equity held by Black Economic Empowerment entities.

Scaling Investment through PPPs and Blended Finance

As Africa's energy project pipeline expands, PPPs and blended finance have become essential tools for scaling investment. The AfDB's $10 million concessional equity stake in the ARM-Harith Successor Infrastructure Equity Fund, a $200 million regional vehicle, highlights how development finance institutions can de-risk infrastructure and crowd in private capital. The fund supports AfDB's target to electrify 300 million people by 2030 through sustainable energy solutions.

Meanwhile, South Africa's Battery Energy Storage Independent Power Producer Procurement Program illustrates the power of blended finance in scaling innovation. With R12.8 billion ($678.8 million) allocated to eight projects delivering 615 MW of storage across three provinces, the initiative enhances grid stability and achieved a 35% cost reduction from the first bid round – a clear sign of growing cost efficiency.

Frameworks for African-Led Growth

The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), ratified by over 48 countries, offers a powerful framework for prioritizing African-led energy development. By promoting intra-African investment flows and removing trade barriers, AfCFTA enables energy projects to be sourced, financed and executed within the continent. With Ghana spearheading the AfCFTA Guided Trade Initiative – engaging eight pilot countries – the agreement is fostering regional cooperation to scale African energy solutions and reduce external dependency. Once fully operational across more than 50 member states, AfCFTA is set to accelerate an Africa-first approach to infrastructure, technology, and capital deployment in the energy sector.

Meanwhile, the African Energy Commission continues to strengthen institutional cooperation across the African Union to support sovereign energy strategies. A prime example of African private-sector leadership is Coscharis Technologies' $4 billion solar project in Nigeria – the largest renewable energy initiative in West Africa – reflecting a shift toward domestically-driven, large-scale investment in clean energy that aligns with national priorities and regional ambitions.

“Africa's energy future must be shaped by African priorities, African solutions and African investment. At AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025, we are not just talking about the energy transition – we are driving real deals and partnerships that put Africa-led development at the center of the global energy conversation,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

About AEW: Invest in African Energies:
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

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President Confers Posthumous Senior Counsel Status on Adv Dumalisile Philemon Pearce Nokwe

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa has honoured the late struggle veteran and human rights lawyer Advocate Dumalisile Philemon Pearce Nokwe with the posthumous conferral of the honorary title of Senior Counsel (Silk) for the Republic of South Africa.

The President has bestowed this conferral on the late Adv Nokwe on the eve of the esteemed legal practitioner's reburial in West Park Cemetery, Johannesburg, tomorrow, Saturday, 17 May 2025.

He will be reburied along with his wife, Mrs Vuyiswa Malangabi-Nokwe who passed away in 2008.

She was a distinguished activist in her own right and had obtained a BSc and Bachelor of Education degree.

Advocate “Duma” Nokwe passed away in Zambia in 1978, at the age of 50. He had lived in exile since 1963. His mortal remains were repatriated to South Africa in 2024.

President Ramaphosa has accorded Adv Nokwe a Special Provincial Official Funeral and the President will deliver a tribute at tomorrow's ceremony.

The posthumous honour bestowed on the first African advocate of the Supreme Court is a high honour that recognises Adv Nokwe's expertise and contribution to the legal profession.

President Ramaphosa has conferred the status of Senior Counsel on Adv Nokwe in line with the provisions of the Legal Practice Act of 2014, which governs this status and sets out the criteria for its conferral.

In this instance, the Legal Practice Council and the Duma Nokwe Group of Advocates made an application to the President for the Adv Nokwe's posthumous appointment as a Senior Counsel.

Adv Nokwe, who was born in 1927, obtained a BSc degree from the University of Fort Hare and a diploma in education with which he took up a teaching post in Krugersdorp.

His political activism led to imprisonment during the 1952 Defiance Campaign and his dismissal by the then Transvaal Education Department.

Following his participation in the 1953 World Youth Festival and visits to the then Soviet Union, China and Britain, the South African authorities imposed a banning and restriction order on him.

He subsequently studied law, obtained an LLB degree and became the first black advocate to be admitted to the Johannesburg Society of Advocates.

The Native Affairs Department of the time debarred him from taking chambers with his white colleagues in the Johannesburg city centre and this development led to Adv Nokwe devoting himself to the liberation struggle.

He was put on trial for treason and was subjected to banning orders, arrests and assault by the police.

He was elected Secretary-General of the African National Congress in 1958 and mobilised communities against apartheid until the underground leadership directed him to leave South Africa in January 1963.

Adv Nokwe campaigned against the apartheid state on global platforms including those of the Organisation of African Unity and African Union, and remained an activist until he passed in Lusaka in January 1978.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

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Eswatini’s Minister of Natural Resources and Energy to Speak at AEW 2025

Location: Business
African Energy Chamber

Eswatini's efforts to scale up investment in its mining and renewable energy sectors will take center stage at African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025, with the kingdom's Minister of Natural Resources and Energy Prince Lonkhokhela Dlamini confirmed to speak. Taking place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town, AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 is the continent's premier energy event and will spotlight Eswatini's strategic initiatives to attract foreign investment in critical minerals, support energy independence and advance sustainable development.

Prince Dlamini's participation at AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 reinforces Eswatini's commitment to leveraging strategic partnerships and international forums to attract capital and technology into both its mining and energy sectors. The kingdom recently celebrated a major milestone with the financial close and construction launch of the 13.5 MW Lower Maguduza Hydro Power Project, a public-private initiative that underscores Eswatini's drive to achieve greater energy independence and sustainability through renewables.

AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

Eswatini is also making significant progress toward universal energy access through the newly launched Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation (ASCENT) project. Backed by international financial institution the World Bank, this initiative aims to connect 50,000 new households – benefitting 200,000 people – to electricity using both on- and off-grid solutions, with a focus on underserved rural communities. Supported by over $100 million in concessional financing, the ASCENT project will enhance energy security, build institutional capacity and improve livelihoods, making Eswatini one of Africa's frontrunners in equitable and sustainable electrification.

In the mining sector, Eswatini is actively working to position itself as an emerging market for critical minerals, following the launch of the second phase of a national mineral mapping program in partnership with South Africa's Council for Geoscience in November 2023. Using AI-based geoscientific techniques, this initiative seeks to unlock the country's vast yet underexplored mineral wealth – ranging from gold and iron ore to a broader portfolio of high-demand critical minerals. As part of its outreach to global investors, Eswatini is creating an enabling environment for private sector participation in mineral exploration, production and job creation.

Stepping into this picture, Minister Dlamini's participation at AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 aligns with the goals of Eswatini to open its doors to investors in both energy and mining. By sharing insights into investment opportunities, policy developments and major projects, Minister Dlamini will not only promote greater foreign spending in the kingdom, but position Eswatini as a top destination for energy and mining developers. 

“With strong regional partnerships and a focus on innovation, Eswatini is rapidly becoming a compelling destination for critical mineral exploration and clean energy investment,” states Tomás Gerbasio, VP Commercial and Strategic Engagement, African Energy Chamber.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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