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The African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) has finalised a loan of up to $15 million to the Biologicals and Vaccines Institute of South Africa Ltd (Biovac) (https://apo-opa.co/3RQJKp2) to support a new multi-vaccine manufacturing facility in Cape Town that will significantly expand Africa's domestic capacity to produce vaccines.

The financing forms part of an expansion programme that will raise Biovac's total annual manufacturing capacity up to 500 million doses. Once complete, Biovac is expected to become Africa's first end-to-end producer of oral cholera vaccine and South Africa's first locally produced inactivated polio vaccine, and the first on the continent to produce inactivated polio vaccine through technology-transfer partnerships with Sanofi, the International Vaccine Institute, Biological E Limited, EuBiologics, and Bharat Biotech. For more than two decades, Biovac has been South Africa's primary vaccine supplier,

Africa currently imports more than 99 percent of the vaccines it uses, even though the continent carries a disproportionate share of the world's vaccine-preventable disease burden. In response, the African Union aims to produce 60 percent of the continent's vaccines locally by 2040. (https://apo-opa.co/4c0qcoV) Beyond vaccines, the project is projected to create around 340 full-time jobs, with an estimated 43 percent of these roles going to women and 30 percent going to youths. Biovac, which already employs more than 300 staff — half of them women — will also expand training in vaccine manufacturing, quality control, and regulatory science in partnership with local universities and other regional training institutions.

“This investment in Biovac is about much more than expanding vaccine production capacity. It is about building Africa's health sovereignty, strengthening regional value chains, and creating industrial capabilities that will enable the continent to respond more effectively to future health emergencies,” said Solomon Quaynor, the Bank Group's Vice President for Private Sector, Infrastructure and Industrialisation. "By supporting Africa's first end-to-end oral cholera vaccine manufacturing facility and the continent's first local production of inactivated polio vaccine, we are helping transform Africa from a consumer of imported vaccines into a producer of critical health solutions.”

“We welcome the African Development Bank as a partner in this landmark project and are proud that an institution so central to Africa's development sees in Biovac the same opportunity we see, a chance to fundamentally shift the continent's relationship with its own health security,” said Biovac Chief Executive Officer Morena Makhoana. “The project will shift the narrative from majority-imported vaccines to majority-exported vaccines. This is part of changing that reality permanently. This is what Africa's health sovereignty looks like in practice, and we are honoured to be building it.” 

The Bank Group's support for Biovac aligns with its broader commitment to developing Africa's pharmaceutical and vaccine manufacturing ecosystem, creating quality jobs, fostering innovation, and advancing African Union targets.

“This project allows one of Africa's most experienced manufacturers to scale up exactly where the need is greatest: vaccines that protect children from cholera, polio, pneumonia and meningitis," said Kennedy Mbekeani, the Bank Group's Director General for Southern Africa, and Country Manager for South Africa.

The expansion project is also designed to plug directly into the continent's emerging vaccine-financing architecture, including Gavi's African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator (AVMA), (https://apo-opa.co/4c1QFT4) a $1.2 billion mechanism that rewards African manufacturers with milestone payments once they reach WHO prequalification, plus a per-dose top-up on vaccines supplied through UNICEF tenders.

Biovac's new facility is expected to be completed by 2028 and will initially produce vaccines for cholera (oral) and subsequently for polio (IPV), pneumonia (PCV), and meningitis (MenX).

The Bank joins a syndicate of development finance institutions backing the project. The syndicate is led by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and supported by a long-term quasi-equity facility from the Human Development Accelerator (HDX) programme, a European Union-backed initiative implemented by the European Investment Bank in partnership with the Gates Foundation. The package is complemented by grant funding and support from other global health partners for technology transfers that will bring new vaccines into Biovac's portfolio.

Biovac is a South African biopharmaceutical company established in 2003 in partnership with the South African government to develop local vaccine manufacturing capability. Based in Cape Town, it currently manufactures and supplies much-needed routine paediatric vaccines and has delivered more than 450 million vaccine doses to countries across Southern Africa, including COVID-19 vaccines.

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

Media contacts: 
Emeka Anuforo
Communication and External Relations Department
media@afdb.org

Nicolette Pesev
Head: Corporate Brand
media@biovac.co.za

About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa's premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org 

As African governments and mining companies accelerate efforts to expand gold production and capitalize on strong global demand, African Mining Week (AMW) 2026, taking place October 14–16 in Cape Town, will spotlight the policies, partnerships and investments driving the continent's next phase of growth in the gold sector.

The event will feature a dedicated panel, Expanding Africa's Gold Output, exploring strategies to increase gold production, formalize artisanal and small-scale mining and strengthen investment across the value chain.

The session will be moderated by Matt Banton, Head of Mining at Moore Global, and feature Fousseni Togola, President of the Mali Chamber of Mines, and Benford Mokoatle, Executive Vice President: South Africa at Gold Fields.

The discussion comes as the global gold market continues to strengthen. Gold prices have remained above $4,000 per ounce throughout 2026, supported by sustained central bank demand as countries increase gold reserves to diversify foreign exchange holdings and strengthen financial resilience. Across Africa, central banks in Tanzania, Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, Egypt and Namibia have expanded gold purchase programs, reinforcing demand while creating new opportunities for domestic producers.

African gold-producing nations are responding by introducing reforms aimed at increasing production and improving sector governance. In Mali, the government is strengthening the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector as part of its strategy to maintain annual gold production above 60 metric tons. In July 2026, the country established the Malian Office of Precious Substances, a new state institution responsible for regulating and formalizing artisanal gold production across approximately 400 mining sites employing nearly two million people. At the same time, Mali continues to strengthen partnerships with major mining companies, including Barrick, B2Gold, Toubani Resources and Cora Gold, to sustain long-term production growth and attract additional investment.

At AMW 2026, Togola is expected to discuss how the Mali Chamber of Mines is supporting these reforms while highlighting the investment opportunities emerging across the country's gold sector. His participation will explore the role of chamber members in expanding production, strengthening local participation and positioning Mali among Africa's leading gold producers.

South Africa is also advancing initiatives to revitalize its gold industry through increased exploration and long-term mine investment. Earlier this year, the government expanded the Junior Mining Exploration Fund to R600 million, improving access to exploration capital for emerging mining companies and supporting efforts to unlock new gold discoveries.

Complementing these national initiatives, Gold Fields is investing R1.714 billion through 2027 to deepen its flagship South Deep Mine, positioning the operation as a long-life production hub well beyond 2030. Gold Fields' Mokoatle is expected to provide an update on the company's long-term investment strategy, highlighting how innovation and sustained capital investment are supporting South Africa's efforts to strengthen gold production.

As investment accelerates across Africa's gold sector, AMW 2026 provides a premier platform to connect governments, producers, investors and service providers, advancing the partnerships and capital needed to unlock the continent's next phase of gold production growth.

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

Independent E&P company Meren Energy will participate at African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 – taking place in Cape Town from October 12–16 – as a Silver Partner, showcasing its evolution into a major independent upstream producer with a balance portfolio spanning high-margin production in Nigeria and world-class exploration opportunities across the Orange Basin. The company arrives at the event following a transformational year marketed by a corporate rebrand, a major portfolio consolidation and a sharpened focus on delivering long-term production growth.

Formerly Africa Oil Corp., Meren Energy completed its corporate rebrand in May 2025, reflecting its transition from an exploration-led company into a full-cycle upstream producer. The transformation accelerated with the completion of its Prime Oil & Gas consolidation in July 2025, which doubled the company's working interest production and reserves while strengthening its cash flow through expanded interests in Nigeria's prolific deepwater assets.

Today, Nigeria represents the cornerstone of Meren's business. Through interests in Prime, the company holds stakes in some of the country's largest offshore producing fields, including Akpo, Egina and Agbami. These assets underpin virtually all of the company's current cash flow, benefitting from premium Brent-linked pricing, low lifting costs and long-life production. 

The strategy has translated into a strong financial position. During the first quarter of 2026, Meren reported entitlement production of approximately 31,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (bpd) while maintaining guidance for an average of roughly 30,000 bpd for the year. The company also strengthened its balance sheet by refinancing its reserve-based lending facility, increasing commitments to $600 million with maturity extended to 2032, while continuing to return capital to shareholders through quarterly dividends. 

Alongside its producing portfolio, Meren is positioning itself for the next phase of growth through one of the world's most closely watched emerging petroleum provinces: the Orange Basin. 

In Namibia, the company retains an effective interest in the giant Venus discovery through its investment in Impact Oil & Gas. Following a corporate restructuring announced in May 2026, Impact has become a streamlined Namibia-focused company dedicated to advancing the Venus development toward final investment decision. The project, led by TotalEnergies, ranks among Africa's largest recent offshore discoveries and is expected to become one of the continent's most significant new sources of oil production later this decade. 

While Impact concentrates exclusively on Namibia, Meren continues to directly hold an 18% interest in South Africa's Block 3B/4B in the Orange Basin, where high-impact exploration drilling is anticipated. The company also maintains operated exploration acreage in Equatorial Guinea, providing additional long-term exploration upside alongside its producing assets. ​

“Meren Energy represents the evolution of Africa's independent upstream sector. By combining strong producing assets with strategic investments in frontier basins like the Orange Basin, the company is demonstrating how African-focused independents can deliver both shareholder value and long-term energy development,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber. 

At AEW 2026, Meren Energy is expected to engage investors, operators and government stakeholders on opportunities across its diversified portfolio, with particular emphasis on the Venus development, exploration potential in South Africa's Orange Basin and continued investment in Nigeria's offshore sector. As a Silver Partner, the company reinforces its commitment to advancing Africa's next generation of upstream projects while supporting the continent's growing role in global energy supply.  ​

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

As Africa moves to unlock an estimated $29.5 trillion in mine-site mineral value, development finance institutions, commercial banks and private investment firms are expanding financial support to help transform the continent into a globally competitive mining hub.

The growing role of financiers in unlocking Africa's mining value chain will take center stage at African Mining Week (AMW) 2026, taking place October 14–16 in Cape Town. The event will bring together leading financial institutions – including Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa (IDC), Standard Bank, Absa Bank, Trade and Development Bank (TDB), Africa50, Apeiron Investment Group and World Mining Investment – to showcase financing models supporting mining development across the continent.

AMW comes as momentum behind mining finance continues to accelerate. In July 2026, AFC, DFC and the Development Bank of Southern Africa reached financial close on the $753 million Lobito Corridor Railway Project, one of Africa's most significant infrastructure investments supporting the mining sector. The project will rehabilitate 1,300 km of railway linking Angola's Port of Lobito with the DRC and Zambia, creating a faster and more cost-effective export corridor for copper, cobalt and other strategic minerals.

At AMW 2026, Vibhuti Jain, Managing Director & Regional Head for Africa at DFC, is expected to discuss the institution's growing investment portfolio and the U.S. strategy to strengthen critical mineral supply chains through Africa.

The event also comes as South Africa strengthens exploration finance through the IDC-managed Junior Exploration Fund. In June 2026, the IDC reached a new financing milestone, increasing the number of junior mining companies supported through the fund to 13. Earlier in the year, the IDC expanded the fund's capital allocation to R600 million, advancing the country's efforts to revive exploration, stimulate greenfield development and strengthen the participation of locally owned mining companies. Thabiso Sekano, IDC's Head of Mining and Metals, is expected to discuss the fund's progress alongside broader initiatives supporting the mining industry through investments in industrial infrastructure.

Infrastructure finance will also be a key focus at AMW 2026, with Simbarashe Chikarango, Head of Project and Infrastructure Finance at TDB, and Folaseto Akin-Olugbade of Africa50 expected to highlight investments aimed at addressing the energy, transport and logistics constraints that continue to limit mining productivity.

TDB recently partnered with several financial institutions to launch a $176 million energy investment platform that will accelerate private-sector electrification across sub-Saharan Africa. The bank is also providing a $150 million syndicated facility to Mota-Engil Africa to finance transport, mining and infrastructure projects across multiple African markets. Meanwhile, Africa50 is supporting Kenya's $311 million electricity transmission public-private partnership, strengthening power infrastructure essential for mining and industrial development.

Commercial banks are likewise expanding their mining portfolios. Standard Bank and Absa Bank recently participated in a $130 million financing package for South African mining company Tharisa, supporting the company's long-term growth strategy. Standard Bank also arranged a $150 million financing facility for Rosh Pinah Zinc Corporation in Namibia to support mine expansion, reinforcing its commitment to financing strategic mining projects across Southern Africa.

Deerosh Maharaj, Executive Head for Energy, Infrastructure and Mining at Standard Bank, and Shirley Webber, Managing Principal and Coverage Head for Resources and Energy at Absa Bank, are expected to discuss opportunities to increase capital flows into African mining projects.

Private investment firms are also stepping up efforts to channel international capital into Africa's mining sector. Apeiron Investment Group and World Mining Investment are expanding initiatives to connect investors with the continent's growing pipeline of mining opportunities, as Africa seeks to secure a significant share of the estimated $500 billion in global investment required by 2040 to meet soaring demand for critical minerals, including copper, lithium, graphite, nickel and rare earth elements.

Sebastian Wagner, Head of Natural Resources at Apeiron Investment Group, and Didier Rault, CEO of World Mining Investment, are expected to showcase financing strategies designed to connect global investors with Africa's next generation of mining projects.

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

Darryl Willis, Corporate Vice President for the Energy & Resources Industry at Microsoft, has been confirmed as a speaker at the African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 conference and exhibition. As a speaker, Willis brings one of the world's foremost voices on the convergence of AI, cloud computing and energy infrastructure to Africa's premier energy investment event. His participation comes as AI-driven digital infrastructure emerges as a new catalyst for power generation, grid expansion and energy investment across the continent.

AEW 2026 – taking place from October 12‒16 in Cape Town – serves as the continent's biggest energy gathering, bringing together government leaders, operators, financiers, technology companies and service providers to advance investment across Africa's oil, gas and broader energy sectors.

A former CEO of bp Angola, Willis now leads Microsoft's global strategy for the energy and resources industry, helping utilities, oil and gas operators, mining companies, and governments deploy cloud technologies and AI to improve operations while supporting the infrastructure required to power next-generation digital economies. His participation reflects the growing recognition that Africa's energy future will be shaped not only by resource development, but also by the expansion of digital infrastructure.

A central theme of Microsoft's strategy is the relationship between AI infrastructure and electricity investment. Rather than viewing hyperscale data centers as a burden on already constrained power systems, the company promotes a model whereby large, predictable electricity consumers create the commercial certainty needed to finance new generation capacity, transmission infrastructure and grid modernization. As AI infrastructure expands across Africa, this model is expected to play an important role in mobilizing investment into renewable energy, firm generation capacity and transmission networks.

Willis has also championed a broader strategy centered on building AI infrastructure alongside communities, improving computing efficiency through metrics such as tokens per watt and expanding Microsoft's infrastructure footprint beyond traditional markets. The approach aligns closely with Africa's growing need for resilient electricity systems capable of supporting industrial development and expanding digital economies.

Microsoft recently launched its $2.5 billion Frontier Company initiative to help organizations deploy AI at scale through specialized engineering and industry expertise. Across Africa, Microsoft continues expanding its digital footprint through investments in cloud infrastructure, AI capability development and regional data centers, including additional investment in South Africa and major planned infrastructure projects elsewhere on the continent.

Rising electricity demand from data centers is expected to accelerate investment in renewable generation, battery energy storage systems, gas-fired power, transmission infrastructure and energy wheeling, while creating new opportunities for independent power producers, utilities and infrastructure investors. As governments pursue both digital transformation and universal electrification, closer coordination between technology companies and energy developers is paving the way for increased collaboration and investment.

“Artificial intelligence is creating an entirely new category of energy demand, and Africa has a unique opportunity to turn that demand into long-term investment in power generation, transmission and digital infrastructure. Darryl Willis brings a rare perspective from both the energy industry and the global technology sector. His insights will help shape an important conversation about how Africa can build the resilient energy systems needed to power both industrial growth and the AI economy,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Africa's push to retain domestic value from its oil and gas resources has become a defining strategic priority. This agenda, which spans regional refining expansion, cross-border trade and local capital mobilization will drive the 8th APPO NOC-CEO Forum in Cape Town on October 12, held alongside African Energy Week (AEW) 2026. 

Hosted by the South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC), the Forum brings together the chief executives of the African Petroleum Producers' Organization's (APPO) member national oil companies (NOCs) to advance one primary goal: building a more integrated African energy industry. From financing billion-dollar projects and expanding refining capacity to strengthening regional gas markets and harmonizing petroleum regulations, the meeting has become one of the continent's most influential executive platforms for turning shared priorities into coordinated action. 

The Forum comes at a defining moment for APPO, where, since its establishment in 1987, the organization has largely served as a platform for policy coordination among Africa's petroleum-producing nations. Under Secretary General Farid Ghezali, the organization is evolving into a commercially focused alliance that seeks to mobilize investment, strengthen regional infrastructure and position Africa as a more integrated energy market. 

That shift has accelerated throughout 2026. APPO has advanced an African refining model, promoted cross-border energy corridors and strengthened cooperation between NOCs. Most significantly, the launch of the Africa Energy Bank marks a major step toward giving African energy projects access to financing sourced on the continent, reducing reliance on international lenders that have increasingly withdrawn support for oil and gas developments.  

Against this backdrop, this year's NOC-CEO Forum moves beyond dialogue towards identifying projects, strengthening partnerships and aligning the continent's NOCs around practical initiatives that can be delivered over the coming year. 

As such, a central theme of this year's meeting is ensuring Africa captures more value from the resources it already produces. 

Delegates will examine proposals for regional financing and petrochemical hubs capable of processing African crude closer to home, reducing dependence on imported fuels while creating new industrial opportunities. The discussions support APPO's broader objective of replacing fragmented national markets with an integrated regional value chain that keeps investment, jobs and expertise within Africa. 

The Forum will also advance plans for an African petroleum products market through a proposed products exchange platform, alongside efforts to harmonize fuel specifications and simplify cross-border trade. Together, these initiatives are designed to make it easier for African countries to trade energy with one another while strengthening supply security across the continent. 

Natural gas will feature prominently throughout the program as executive explore regional LNG cooperation, long-term supply agreements, gas-to-power initiatives and projects that expand LPG access while reducing routine flaring. As governments look to improve electricity access and support industrial growth, gas continues to play a central role in APPO's long-term energy strategy. 

Financing will remain high on the agenda following the operational launch of the Africa Energy Bank, one of APPO's flagship initiatives. 

Forum discussions will focus on how the Bank, working alongside Afreximbank, can help accelerate upstream, midstream and downstream developments through African-backed financing structures. Delegates will also identify bankable projects for 2027 and examine commercial frameworks that reduce investment risk while supporting long-term infrastructure development. 

Beyond financing, executives will review progress on existing cooperation agreements and identify new opportunities for joint investments, technical collaboration and shared infrastructure between member NOCs.  

Meanwhile, reflecting APPO's ambition to institutionalize cooperation, delegates will also explore digital platforms designed to connect suppliers, investors, researchers and training institutions across member countries. New tools covering supplier certification, procurement, research collaboration, financing access, training and business intelligence aim to create a more connected energy ecosystem while strengthening local content across Africa's oil and gas value chain.  

The program also includes discussions on legal harmonization, methane reduction, carbon capture, asset integrity and APPO's revised Long-Term Strategy for Sustainable and Inclusive African Energy Sovereignty by 2050, ensuring that commercial growth is supported by stronger governance and common industry standards. 

The meeting will conclude with the adoption of resolutions, a roadmap and key performance indicators for 2027, reinforcing the Forum's role as an execution platform rather than simply a venue for discussion. 

The momentum behind these efforts was evident during the previous APPO NOC-CEO Forum, held in Accra in September 2025. Hosted by the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), the meeting focused on advancing regional cooperation while supporting the operationalization of the Africa Energy Bank. Executives also explored opportunities for greater cross-border infrastructure collaboration and visited the 40,000-barrel-per-day Sentuo Oil Refinery, highlighting the growing importance of domestic refining capacity and value addition as African countries seek to strengthen energy security and reduce reliance on imported petroleum products. 

The lineup during this year's meeting features an impressive roster of NOCs including: Nour Eddine Daoudi, CEO of Algeria's Sonatrach, Sebastião Gaspar Martins, CEO and Chairman of Angola's Sonangol, Issifou Moussa Yari, CEO and President of Benin's SNH-Benin, Adolphe Moudiki, CEO of Cameroon's SNH-Cameroon, Augustin Nkuba Kasanza, Managing Director of the DRC's SONAHYDROC, Maixent Raoul Ominga, Director General of the Republic of Congo's SNPC, Fatoumata Mbalou Sanogo, CEO of Ivory Coast's Petroci, Salah EL-Din A/Kareem, CEO of Egypt's EGPC and Bienvenido Nguema Envo, CEO of Equatorial Guinea's GEPetrol.  

Additional participants include: Marcellin Simba Ngabi, CEO of Gabon's GOC, Kwame Ntow Amoah, CEO of Ghana's GNPC, Masoud Suleman Mousa Mahmoud, CEO of Libya's National Oil Corporation, Victoria Sibeya, Managing Director of Namibia's Namcor, Colonel Ali Seibou Hassane, Director General of Niger's Sonidep, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, Group CEO of Nigeria's NNPC, Alioune Guèye, CEO of Senegal's Petrosen, Godfrey Moagi, CEO of South Africa's SANPC and Djalila Abdourahim, Director General of Chad's SHT.  

As Africa seeks to finance more of its own projects, process more of its own resources and build a truly integrated energy market, the APPO NOCs CEOs' Forum has become one of the continent's most consequential gatherings of energy leaders. This October's meeting will help determine how those ambitions translate into investment, partnerships and projects that strengthen Africa's energy future.  ​

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Africa's mining sector is entering a new investment cycle as producers accelerate exploration, develop new mines and expand mineral processing capacity to meet rising global demand for strategic minerals. Across the continent, billions of dollars are being deployed into projects designed to increase production, strengthen value addition and position African countries as more competitive players in global mineral supply chains.

Against this backdrop, African Mining Week (AMW) 2026 — The Most Influential Mining Conference in Africa – will bring together the companies leading these investments to discuss the projects, partnerships and financing shaping Africa's next generation of mining development. Taking place in Cape Town from October 14–16, the event will feature producers advancing major projects across Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana and South Africa.

Against this backdrop, African Mining Week (AMW) 2026 — The Most Influential Mining Conference in Africa – will bring together the companies leading these investments to discuss the projects, partnerships and financing shaping Africa's next generation of mining development. Taking place in Cape Town from October 14–16, the event will feature producers advancing major projects across Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana and South Africa.

Among the companies leading this momentum is KoBold Metals, which broke ground on its $2 billion Mingomba Copper Project in Zambia in May 2026 – one of the country's largest new mining developments. Expected to produce 300,000 tons of copper annually once operational in the early 2030s, the project supports Zambia's ambition of increasing national copper production to three million tons per year by 2031. Beyond mine development, the company is deploying artificial intelligence and advanced geological modelling to accelerate mineral discovery across the DRC and Burundi. At AMW 2026, Mfikeyi Makayi, CEO of KoBold Metals, will discuss how technology-driven exploration is reshaping mineral discovery and accelerating Africa's next generation of mining projects.

Also contributing to Zambia's expanding copper pipeline is Makor Resources, which is advancing exploration at the Muli and Kangili copper projects. As producers seek to replenish future supply through new discoveries, Brooke Bibeault, CEO of Makor Resources, will outline the company's $30 million investment strategy and its contribution to strengthening Zambia's position as Africa's second-largest copper producer.

Elsewhere on the continent, Buenassa is supporting the DRC's push to capture greater value from its mineral resources through domestic processing. Eddy Kioni, CEO of Buenassa, will showcase the company's integrated mining and mineral processing strategy, including the development of a multi-metal processing facility in Lualaba Province. Currently in its feasibility stage, the refinery project will produce 30,000 tons of LME-grade copper cathode and 5,000 tons of cobalt contained (cobalt metal with optionality for sulphate) per annum, during phase 1. Later stages of the project will expand capacity to up to 120,000 tons of copper and 20,000 tons of cobalt contained (cobalt metal with optionality for sulphate) in subsequent phases.

In Ghana, Typhoon Greenfield Development is focused on strengthening the artisanal and small-scale mining sector. Kwaku Afrifa Nsiah-Asare, CEO of Typhoon Greenfield Development, will discuss best practices for formalizing artisanal mining, attracting private investment and increasing production in one of Africa's leading gold-producing nations.

Meanwhile, Sean Meadon, Senior Geologist at South African producer Gold Ore, will highlight the company's Turnbridge underground and New Kleinfontein opencast projects, which aim to support the revitalization of South Africa's gold sector. With first production targeted in 2026, the projects align with broader efforts to expand domestic output and capitalize on sustained strong gold prices.

By bringing together producers, governments, investors and technology providers, AMW 2026 will explore the partnerships, financing and innovation required to translate Africa's abundant mineral resources into long-term economic growth and industrial development.

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

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As African countries advance reforms to unlock new mineral discoveries and strengthen mining investment, chambers of mines are playing an increasingly important role in connecting governments, investors and industry. Through policy advocacy, regulatory engagement and investment promotion, these organizations are helping shape the continent's next phase of mining development.

That growing role will be on display at African Mining Week (AMW) 2026, taking place in Cape Town from October 14–16, where chamber executives will highlight the policies, partnerships and investment opportunities driving growth across Africa's mining sector.

Zimbabwe offers a prime example of this expanding role. The Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe has become an increasingly influential voice in addressing production constraints, including power shortages and foreign exchange challenges. Its recommendations align with recent government initiatives to expand coal-fired power generation, increase coal production and achieve 10% mining sector growth in 2026. At AMW 2026, CEO Isaac Kwesu will outline investment opportunities emerging as the country implements reforms to strengthen mining competitiveness.

In South Africa, the Minerals Council South Africa continues to advocate for improvements to rail, port and electricity infrastructure while supporting the implementation of the Mineral Resources Development Bill and measures to stimulate exploration. These priorities complement government initiatives such as the Junior Mining Exploration Fund and a broader strategy to mobilize R2 trillion in mining investment over the next five years. CEO Mzila Mthenjane will discuss efforts to revitalize exploration and unlock opportunities across the country's platinum group metals, manganese and critical minerals sectors.

In Zambia, the Zambia Chamber of Mines has helped shape the Geological and Minerals Development Act of 2025, legislation designed to stimulate mineral exploration as the country works toward increasing annual copper production to three million tons by 2031. Zambia has already reached a key milestone in its nationwide geological mapping program, completing 55% of the survey, while the recent launch of the National Spatial Data Infrastructure Policy and Geoportal is improving investor access to geological data. At AMW 2026, CEO Sokwani Chilembo is expected to showcase investment opportunities as Zambia expands exploration and diversifies beyond copper.

As countries increasingly position mining as a driver of economic diversification, Fousseni Togola, President of the Mali Chamber of Mines, will present opportunities in the country's gold and lithium sectors, highlighting how Mali's 2023 Mining Code is supporting investment into emerging minerals.

In Uganda, Humphrey Asiimwe, CEO of the Uganda Chamber of Energy and Minerals, told AMW that the chamber will use the event to promote investment opportunities in gold, graphite and rare earths. The country's mining sector forms a cornerstone of Uganda's strategy to increase GDP from $59.3 billion to $500 billion by 2040.

Meanwhile, Amara Kamara, President of the Liberia Chamber of Mines, is expected to highlight reforms aimed at attracting new exploration investment, including plans to establish a national mining company as Liberia targets more than $3 billion in annual mining and energy revenues by 2029.

Regional collaboration will also feature prominently during AMW 2026. Thierry Naweji, Executive Chairman of the SA-DRC Chamber of Commerce, is expected to discuss opportunities to strengthen cooperation between South African and Congolese mining companies as both countries work to build more integrated regional mineral value chains.

With regulatory reforms gathering pace across the continent, AMW 2026 will highlight how chambers of mines are helping translate policy ambitions into investment opportunities, reinforcing their growing role in Africa's mining development.

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

• EK778 lands at Cape Town International Airport for the first time, bringing the Emirates A350 to South Africa
• Emirates has also reinstated its fourth daily service to Johannesburg, and now operates a consistent and reliable schedule of 56 weekly flights between South Africa and Dubai  ​

Emirates' (www.Emirates.com) third daily service on the Dubai-Cape Town route landed at Cape Town International Airport at 18:05 yesterday, marking the first arrival of flight EK778. This also marks the debut of the airline's next-generation Airbus A350 in South Africa.

The A350 (https://apo-opa.co/3ReSghd) is the newest aircraft type to join Emirates' all widebody fleet, introducing the latest in-flight experience. The bright and airy cabins have been thoughtfully designed to provide more space and comfort in every cabin, whilst cutting-edge technology and enhanced entertainment options elevate every flight. The deployment also increases access to the airline's award-winning Premium Economy cabin, which first launched in South Africa in September 2025 and has proved consistently popular with travellers. 

Afzal Parambil, Emirates' Regional Manager for Southern Africa, said, "Cape Town has long been one of the most popular destinations on our African network. The launch of a third daily service, operated with our newest aircraft, shows how much we believe in this market. The new flight gives travellers more options and an easier connection to our global network through Dubai, while the A350 offers the latest passenger experience. We'd like to extend our thanks to the South African authorities for their partnership and support in securing this new service, and look forward to welcoming passengers onboard."

The new flight enhances connectivity for South African travellers, offering more choice, flexibility, and improved access to Emirates' global network, via Dubai, especially long-haul destinations in West Asia, Australasia and the Far East.

The launch of the new service also builds on the agreement signed in April 2026 between Emirates and Wesgro, the tourism, trade, and investment promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape. The two organisations are working together to bring more visitors from key markets such as the Gulf, the Far East, and India.

Outside of Cape Town, Emirates also reinstated its fourth daily flight to Johannesburg on 1 July 2026, boosting weekly connectivity to Dubai to 56 weekly services from its three South African gateways. The deployment is further supported by the seasonal deployment of the second A380 service into Johannesburg. EK761 and EK762 will now be operated by a full retrofitted A380, equipped with the in-demand Premium Economy cabin and the latest cabin interiors, enhancing Emirates world-class offering and boosting capacity in and out of South Africa's largest and busiest international airport. 

By enhancing its frequencies, Emirates is not just supporting passenger traffic, but facilitation global trade too. Optimising the belly capacity in the Boeing 777 and A350, as well as the daily flight from Durban, Emirates SkyCargo uplifts key commodities from South Africa such as fresh fruit and vegetables, chilled meat, dairy, seafood and fresh cut flowers, and transports them worldwide, connecting South African businesses with their global customers, quickly, reliably and efficiently.

For more information or to book tickets, visit www.Emirates.com. Tickets can also be booked on Emirates App, Emirates Retail stores, Emirates contact centre, or via travel agents.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Emirates Group.

The awards will be a centrepiece of the 17th annual API Summit (www.APISummit.co.za), taking place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on 17 and 18 September under the theme Bold Capital. Real Momentum. The summit draws more than 600 real estate, hospitality and capital leaders from across the continent and beyond.

“Over the past decade, the API Awards have become the definitive mark of peer recognition in African real estate and hospitality, judged not by sponsors or popularity, but by the industry leaders who understand these sectors best,” says API Events Commercial Director Murray Anderson.

“In this, our 10th edition, new categories let us recognise a wider field, from the boldest new capital commitments to the assets proving their performance over the long term. Ours is an industry moving decisively from ambition to delivery, and these awards exist to honour both,” he adds.

A distinguished panel of industry luminaries will adjudicate each category, honouring the projects, professionals and institutions that set the standard for innovation, sustainability and lasting impact.

This year's event introduces a new Performance & Legacy category - celebrating enduring impact - alongside new awards spanning the Development, Personnel, and Service, Tech & Innovation.

Recognition that lifts profiles - and attracts investment

The awards have significantly lifted winners' profiles with the heavyweight investors, developers and financers who convene at the summit, and the broader real estate and hospitality industries.

Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) was named 2025's Best African Real Estate Bank of the Year, recognised for its deep property finance expertise and ability to structure and execute complex transactions across South Africa and the wider continent.

“Winning the 2025 API Awards, alongside EDGE recognition from the IFC, reflects the collective expertise, commitment and execution capability of our Property Finance team," says Gerhard Zeelie, Divisional Executive: Property Finance Africa. "The awards reinforce the importance of pairing strong commercial delivery with long-term sustainability and client-focused outcomes.”

Octodec's Yethu City was deservedly named 2025's Best New Affordable Housing Development due to its pairing of genuine affordability with considered design, PropTech integration and a community-focused co-living model. 

“The most compelling developments blend meaningful social impact with commercial viability. Yethu City succeeded by deeply understanding its target market and executing with discipline - authentic purpose, proven by delivery, is what makes a project stand out,” says Jeffrey Wapnick, CEO of Octodec Investments Limited. 

Entries and nominations are welcomed from across Africa, with a closing date of 31 July. Click here to enter (https://apo-opa.co/4eVnuSi).

The 2026 categories

Development

• Best New Affordable Housing
• Best New Residential (Mid-Market) *New
• Best New Upmarket Residence *New
• Best New Mixed-Use / Precinct Development
• Best New Office Development (Building)
• Best New Office Fit-Out (Occupier)
• Best New Hotel / Hospitality Development
• Industrial, Logistics & Alternative Assets
• Best New Redevelopment / Refurbishment
• Best New Safari / Lodge Development *New

Personnel

• Advisory Consultant of the Year *New
• Asset Manager of the Year *New
• Sales Team of the Year
• Architectural Team of the Year *New
• Newsmaker of the Year *New
• Public Sector Real Estate Leader of the Year
• African Real Estate Leader of the Year (formerly CEO)
• Outstanding Woman in Real Estate

Service, Tech & Innovation

• Best African Real Estate Bank of the Year
• Best Transaction/Deal of the Year
• Hospitality Consulting & Advisory Partner of the Year *New
• Facilities Management Team of the Year
• Most Innovative PropTech Company of the Year

Performance & Legacy *New

• Best Performing Retail Asset
• Best Performing Office Asset
• Best Performing Mixed-Use Asset

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of API Events.

Enquiries: 
Dale Hes
Programmes and Communications Lead
API Events 
Tel: +27 (0) 81406 8840 
Email: dale@apievents.com 

Murray Anderson
Commercial Director
API Events 
Tel: +27 (0) 71 890 7739
Email: murray@apievents.com 

About API Events:
Africa Property Investments (API) Events is Africa's leading B2B event and thought-leadership platform for real estate investment and hotel development. Over the past 17 years it has hosted 150+ events across 14 African countries, drawing 2,500+ investors, developers, and public-sector leaders annually and helping drive billions in direct investment. Its flagship pan-African API Summit attracts over 600 delegates.

Our main purpose is to mobilise capital across retail, residential, mixed-use, commercial, industrial, and hospitality assets, connecting institutional investors, fund managers, banks, DFIs, developers, operators, and proptech founders.

The Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) (www.AWIEForum.org) calls for nominations for the 2026 edition of the prestigious AWIEF Awards.

The AWIEF Awards was established since 2017 to recognise and celebrate the remarkable achievements of female founders and business leaders across Africa.

The Awards have showcased and honoured exceptional women leaders who are building successful businesses, driving innovation, creating jobs, and contributing to Africa's economic growth, while inspiring future generations and highlighting the vital role of women in Africa's development.

To remain relevant and responsive to Africa's evolving entrepreneurial ecosystem, this year the Awards categories have been refined to better reflect emerging trends, innovation, and impact.

In addition to updating the existing categories, AWIEF has introduced the Male Ally Award to recognise male leaders whose actions and influence have contributed meaningfully to advancing women's economic empowerment and leadership.

The winners of the AWIEF Awards 2026 will be announced at a high-profile awards ceremony and gala dinner on 11 November 2026, as the grand finale of the AWIEF 2026 Conference, taking place on 10 and 11 November 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Cape Town, South Africa.

Awards Categories

Woman to Watch Award

The Woman to Watch Award recognises a female leader under 35, or founder/leader of a venture under three years old, based in or primarily operating in Africa, who is already demonstrating strong early traction through revenue, pilots, partnerships, users, or beneficiaries.

Tech Pioneer Award 

This award spotlights a female founder or senior leader with at least five years' experience in technology or innovation, who is using tech, digital tools, data, or deep-tech solutions at the core of the business or initiative to tackle a clearly defined African challenge such as access, inclusion, efficiency, or scalability.

Agri Award 

Honouring outstanding women in agriculture, this Award celebrates female founders and leaders with 5+ years in agriculture, agri-processing, agri-tech, food systems, or value chains, who are transforming Africa's food systems and value chains while advancing productivity, sustainability, food security, or farmer livelihoods.

Creative Visionary Award 

The Creative Visionary Award recognises a female entrepreneur, creator, or leader with at least five years' experience in the creative industries (such as fashion, design, media, film, music, art, architecture, digital content, or cultural industries) who is significantly shaping African narratives, culture, or creative economies.

Impact for Good Award 

The Impact for Good Award honours a female founder or leader whose initiative has been active for at least three years in sustainability, climate, energy, social innovation, community development, health, or education, and can demonstrate measurable social and/or environmental impact well beyond intent or pilot stage.

Male Ally Award 

The Male Ally Award honours a male leader, founder, executive, policymaker, or senior decision-maker with 10+ years of leadership who goes beyond words to actively break barriers for women in Africa, driving sustained, systemic change for women's economic empowerment.

Lifetime Achievement Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award honours a visionary, female leader with at least 25 years of leadership, entrepreneurship, or public service whose lifelong contribution has helped shape Africa's economic, social, or institutional development and paved the way for future generations of women trailblazers.

No nominations are required for this category. Each year AWIEF identifies and selects from across African regions the recipient for this special award.

How to Nominate

You can nominate yourself or someone else. To submit nominations, please go to: https://apo-opa.co/4p2fAvk

Nominations close on 3 August 2026, at 11:59 PM CAT.

Important Dates

• Nominations Open: 30 June 2026
• Nominations Close: 3 August 2026
• Finalists Announced: September 2026
• AWIEF 2026 Conference and Awards Gala Dinner: 10 – 11 November 2026

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF).