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President Cyril Ramaphosa Conveys Condolences to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa, on behalf of the government and the people of South Africa, has expressed deep sorrow and condolences following the recent landslides in Gofa, South Western Ethiopia, which tragically took the lives of at least 250 of people at this stage. 

President Ramaphosa said the South African people's thoughts are with the people of Ethiopia, particularly the bereaved families, during this period of mourning. Our hearts goes out to the Government and the people of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia at this difficult time. 

President Ramaphosa recalled the strong and historic relations between South Africa and Ethiopia, dating back to the struggle against apartheid.

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

Read morePresident Cyril Ramaphosa Conveys Condolences to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

World Bank Group Executive Directors note progress and re-affirm support to South Africa and Namibia

Location: News

The World Bank Group
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A delegation of the World Bank Group's (WBG) Board of Executive Directors (EDs) noted South Africa's and Namibia's progress in achieving their development goals and re-affirmed World Bank Group's commitment to providing support. The 11 EDs and Alternate EDs were hosted by the World Bank and International Finance Corporation (IFC) country offices during their recent visit on July 7-13.

The visit provided a platform to assess progress with projects and engage on the evolution of the World Bank Group's relationship with the countries, from a knowledge-focused to a broader knowledge and financing partnership. EDs met government and business leaders, local stakeholders, and project beneficiaries, and experienced first-hand how the countries manage development priorities and challenges. South Africa and Namibia have common challenges, including poverty, unemployment, and inequality. Throughout the visit, the delegation discussed the ongoing and future support from the World Bank Group to boost inclusive economic growth and job creation.

In South Africa, over the past three years the country has shifted from being a non-borrowing client to borrowing over $1 billion per year from the World Bank. South Africa also constitutes the largest IFC portfolio in Africa and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency's (MIGA) second largest on the continent.

In Namibia, the World Bank Group is preparing a new Country Partnership Framework (CPF) with the government that will strategically guide its support as the engagement continues to grow. The World Bank recently approved a $138.5 million renewable energy and transmission loan to NamPower, after 15 years without borrowing.

Key highlights of the visit included:

  • In South Africa, the delegation met with the Minister of Finance Honorable Enoch Godongwana, and the Minister of Electricity and Energy Honorable Kgosientsho Ramokgopa. EDs visited two IFC clients and two World Bank projects which showcased support for key government priorities and demonstrated how these projects link to global issues and corporate initiatives such as the just energy transition, health, urban development, and subnational government engagement. The delegation toured and engaged with stakeholders at the Komati power station – the site of the Eskom Just Energy Transition Project; the Addo Elephant Park that houses the innovative Wildlife Conservation Bond; and the IFC-supported Trust for Urban Housing Finance and BioVac Institute that manufactures vaccines locally.
  • In Namibia, the delegation met with Minister of Finance and Public Enterprises Honorable Ipumbu Shiimi and key stakeholders, including development partners and the private sector.  The delegation visited informal settlements near Windhoek to gain insights on housing related issues, a sector where IFC is investing and which the government has identified as a priority for World Bank Group engagement.

Matteo Bugamelli, the World Bank's Executive Director who represents the constituency of countries including Albania, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, San Marino, and Timor-Leste, expressed optimism about the countries' progress. He emphasized the World Bank Group's commitment to helping South Africa and Namibia address unemployment and inequality challenges. He particularly welcomed the increased financing to support the implementation of much needed reforms.

About the World Bank Group's Board of Directors: The Board of Executive Directors is responsible for the conduct of the general operations of the Bank, making decisions on loans, credits, grants, policies, and financial matters. The Board consists of 25 members who represent the 189 member countries, providing guidance for the institution's development activities.

Visiting Board Officials: The delegation included Mr. Abdulaziz E A Almulla (Executive Director for Bahrain, Arab Republic of Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Maldives, Oman, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, West Bank and Gaza, and Republic of Yemen); Mr. Matteo Bugamelli (Executive Director for Albania, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, San Marino, and Timor-Leste); Ms. Ayanda Dlodlo (Executive Director Angola, Nigeria, South Africa); Mr. Floribert Ngaruko (Executive Director for Botswana, Burundi, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, The Gambia, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe); Ms. Katharine Rechico (Executive Director for Antigua & Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St. Kitts & Nevis and St. Vincent & the Grenadines); and Mr. Tauqir Shah (Executive Director for Afghanistan, Algeria, Ghana, Islamic Republic of Iran, Morocco, Pakistan, and Tunisia.

Visiting Alternate Executive Directors:  Mr. Louis Albisson (Alternate Executive Director for France); Mr. Felice Gorordo (Alternate Executive Director for the United States), Mr. Koji Uemura (Alternate Executive Director for Japan); Ms. Kerstin Sumana Wijeyewardene (Alternate Executive Director for Asia and the Pacific Constituency) and Mr. Weifeng Yang (Alternate Executive Director for China).

Included in the delegation was Ms. Mercy Tembon, World Bank Vice President and Corporate Secretary.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.

Read moreWorld Bank Group Executive Directors note progress and re-affirm support to South Africa and Namibia

Ethiopia’s Diniya Kedir Abaraya set for triple the action at the 2024 Totalsports Women’s Race

Location: MyPR

No stranger to South African shores, Ethiopia’s Diniya Kedir Abaraya will make her Totalsports Women’s Race debut in 2024. She’ll do so in style by participating in all three iconic races: Durban on Sunday, August 4th; Cape Town on Friday, August 9th; and Joburg on Saturday, August 17th. Boasting a personal best 10km time of …

Read moreEthiopia’s Diniya Kedir Abaraya set for triple the action at the 2024 Totalsports Women’s Race

South Africa already striding ahead in the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup!

Location: MyPR

KwaZulu-Natal’s Durban Shongweni Club, situated in the Valley of 1 000 Hills, is the place to be from 17 to 28 July 2024 with the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup well underway! The first round of games between the top 8 polocrosse countries has been a treat for spectators with two-time World Cup champions, …

Read moreSouth Africa already striding ahead in the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup!

Radisson Hotel Group bolsters African presence with 7 additional hotels and over 1,200 new rooms including a landmark entry in Tanzania

Location: Business
Radisson Hotel Group

Radisson Hotel Group (www.RadissonHotels.com) is delighted to announce the addition of seven new hotels, adding over 1,200 hotel rooms to its African portfolio and its debut in Tanzania within the first half of 2024. With those additions, the Group's footprint in Africa has grown to nearly 100 hotels in operation and development, placing the Group well on track to reach its goal of 150 hotels within the next five years. 

Tanzania has been identified as a key market in the Group's proactive expansion strategy, making its debut in the country with two hotel signings. This addition enhances the Group's diverse African portfolio, spanning across 30 countries, further establishing it as the hotel company with the largest market presence in Africa.

In Nigeria, Radisson Hotel Group continues to hold a leading position with a portfolio of 13 hotels in operation and under development, including five new hotels signed in 2023. The new signing of the Radisson RED Hotel Abuja has further bolstered the Group's presence in the city, bringing the total number of hotels under development in Abuja to four.

In Morocco, the Group has pursued the same efforts with a clear transformation plan, growing its presence from 1 hotel in 2020 to over 9 hotels in operation and 4 hotels in development today. Casablanca represents a strategic hub among multiple continents and the new signing of Radisson Blu Hotel & Apartments Casablanca Finance City and Radisson RED Hotel Casablanca Finance City solidifies the Group's ambitions to reach over 25 hotels by 2030 across the country.

Ramsay Rankoussi, Vice President, Development, Africa and Turkey at Radisson Hotel Group, said, “The seven new hotels align with our expansion strategy, demonstrating significant growth in key African markets such as Morocco, Nigeria, Tunisia and Ethiopia as well as our highly anticipated debut in Tanzania. These hotels also highlight our conversion strategy and our commitment to diversifying our portfolio by introducing new brands and cementing our presence in these important markets.”

The six hotel signings include:

Radisson Blu Hotel & Apartments, Dar es Salaam (Tanzania)

Marking Radisson Hotel Group's debut in Tanzania, this 138-room hotel, featuring 94 guestrooms and 44 three-bedroom apartments, is set to open in 2025 as part of a mixed-use development in Dar es Salaam's CBD. The hotel will occupy the top 14 floors of a 33-floor tower, one of the tallest buildings in the area, and is within walking distance of the ferry terminal to Zanzibar Island.

The hotel will offer a diverse array of dining facilities, including a lobby café, business class lounge, all-day dining restaurant, specialty restaurant, outdoor pool, and pool restaurant. Additional amenities include retail stores, a ladies' salon, indoor parking, a gym, steam room and sauna, kids' playroom, and eight meeting rooms.

Radisson Hotel Mwanza (Tanzania)

Supporting a strong market entry, this 196-room hotel, currently under construction, will debut the Radisson brand in Tanzania in 2025. Mwanza, Tanzania's second-largest city, is renowned for corporate meetings and events and is the ideal starting point for tours to the Serengeti National Park. As the only branded hotel in Mwanza, it will feature a lobby café and bar, all-day dining restaurant, sports bar, outdoor pool bar, executive lounge, and two specialty restaurants, Balaustine, a 'casual-fine dining' experience inspired by the Barbary coast and the Levant and Filini, offering a delectable dining experience of fresh, simple, and delicious Italian-style cuisine.

The meetings and events space includes a triple-height ballroom, business center, boardrooms, and a conference room. The extensive wellness facilities will include a gym, spa, outdoor pool, and kids' playground.

Radisson Blu Hotel & Apartments, Casablanca Finance City and Radisson RED Casablanca Finance City (Morocco)

Enhancing the Group's Moroccan portfolio, which currently includes 11 hotels in operation and under development, is the addition of new two dual-branded hotels and a serviced apartment. These new builds, including the first Radisson RED hotel in North Africa will feature a total of 381 rooms, are set to open in late 2027. They will be located in Casa Anfa, at the heart of Casablanca Finance City, the city's new financial hub, recognized as Africa's leading financial center, on par with London and La Défense in Paris.

Providing guests with an array of dining and wellness facilities for an ideal stay, the Radisson Blu will offer guests an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty rooftop restaurant, and a rooftop bar. Meanwhile, the Radisson RED hotel, will feature a restaurant and a pool bar. The Radisson Blu's wellness facilities will include a spa, a fitness center, and an outdoor rooftop swimming pool. The Radisson RED will also provide a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and an outdoor rooftop swimming pool.

For meetings and events, in addition to the five meeting rooms at the Radisson Blu, there will be a 1,100-square-meter conference center comprising an auditorium, large ballroom and three meeting rooms, making the complex the future meeting destination.

Radisson Blu Hotel & Conference Center, Tunis (Tunisia)

This 305-room hotel, a conversion of an existing property, will soon debut the Radisson Blu brand in Tunis, complementing the Group's footprint in Tunisia as its seventh hotel in the country and fourth in Tunis. Located just 10 minutes from the airport, the hotel will feature dining outlets such as a lobby bar, shisha bar, all-day dining restaurant, and three specialty restaurants.

The expansive convention center will include multiple meeting rooms, boardrooms, a VIP room, an executive lounge, a business center, and a 1,400 sqm ballroom, making it the largest conference center in the city.

Radisson RED Abuja (Nigeria)

The new-build 105-room hotel, set to open in 2028, will be Radisson Hotel Group's 13th property in Nigeria and the second Radisson RED in the country, introducing the upper upscale brand to Abuja. Located in Wuse, Abuja's main commercial and social district, the hotel will be surrounded by corporate offices, popular estates, shopping malls, and nightlife venues. The hotel will feature a bar and terrace, an all-day dining restaurant, and a pool bar and grill. It will also offer 238 square meters of meeting space, including three meeting rooms and a pre-function area, as well as a fitness facility.

Park Inn by Radisson Addis Ababa (Ethiopia)

Scheduled to open in 2025, this 120-room hotel will be the Group's third hotel in Ethiopia, all located in Addis Ababa and introduce the Park Inn by Radisson brand to the country. Dining options will include a breakfast hall, restaurant hall, coffee shop, and four soft drink bars. The meeting and events space will consist of a large and medium conference room and four meeting rooms. Guests can also enjoy two gyms, a spa, business center, sport facilities, kids' entertainment area, retail space, and co-working space.

Since 2022, the Group has opened 14 hotels, including the debut of the Radisson brand in Morocco and Tunis with Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle and Radisson Hotel Tunis City Center, solidifying its position as the largest hotel operator in Tunisia. The openings have diversified the Group's portfolio with the first safari hotel in Africa, Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, the first resort in Livingstone, Radisson Blu Resort Mosi-oa-Tunya, and the debut in Reunion Island with Radisson Hotel Saint Denis. This achievement has set a record for the Group in terms of realizing its pipeline into openings, translating into a commendable 15 percent annual net operating growth in its African portfolio.

“With a strong first half of the year, we plan to continue the momentum in the second half by focusing on expanding our presence in key markets such as Morocco and South Africa, where we've recently announced our ambition to reach 25 hotels by 2030, doubling the portfolio in both countries. We thank each of our partners for their valued trust in us and our brands,” concluded Rankoussi.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Radisson Hotel Group.

Media Contacts: 
Saadiyah Hendricks,
Area Director PR & Social Media,
MEA & MED
saadiyah.hendricks@radissonhotels.com

Business Development Contacts:
Ramsay Rankoussi,
Vice President,
Development,
Africa & Turkey
ramsay.rankoussi@radissonhotels.com

Social Media:
RADISSON HOTEL GROUP
LinkedIn: http://apo-opa.co/3RGdsK6
Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/3RIpWki
Twitter: http://apo-opa.co/4cuDKrj
Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/3zeAnWy
YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/4ccnECn
TikTok: http://apo-opa.co/3RGR2bv

RADISSON BLU
LinkedIn: http://apo-opa.co/3RGdsK6
Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/4eFgQ1y 
Twitter: http://apo-opa.co/4cuDKrj
Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/3RJgey9
YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/3RJg9KR
TikTok: http://apo-opa.co/3RGR2bv

RADISSON
LinkedIn: http://apo-opa.co/3RGdsK6
Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/4ew0qJ3 
Twitter: http://apo-opa.co/4cuDKrj
Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/3RJoT3H
YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/4eus88S
TikTok: http://apo-opa.co/3RGR2bv

RADISSON RED
LinkedIn: http://apo-opa.co/3RGdsK6
Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/4ew0qJ3red
Twitter: http://apo-opa.co/4cuDKrj
Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/3RJoT3Hred
YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/4ccnECn 
TikTok: http://apo-opa.co/3RGR2bv 

PARK INN BY RADISSON
LinkedIn: http://apo-opa.co/3RGdsK6
Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/4eyxGzb
Twitter: http://apo-opa.co/4cuDKrj
Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/4chcQCQ
YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/4ccnECn
TikTok: http://apo-opa.co/3RGR2bv

RADISSON HOTEL GROUP
Radisson Hotel Group is an international hotel group, operating in EMEA and APAC with over 1,360 hotels in operation and under development in +95 countries. The international hotel group is rapidly expanding with a plan to significantly grow the portfolio. The Group's overarching brand promise is Every Moment Matters with a signature Yes I Can! service ethos.

The Radisson family of brands portfolio includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.

Radisson Rewards (http://apo-opa.co/4ceYa7h) is Radisson Hotel Group's loyalty program, which delivers an elevated experience that makes Every Moment Matter. As the most streamlined program in the sector, members enjoy exceptional advantages and can access their benefits from day one across a wide range of hotels in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific.

Radisson Meetings (http://apo-opa.co/4eBPDwK) provides tailored solutions for any event or meeting, including hybrid solutions placing guests and their needs at the heart of its offer. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and being uniquely 100% Carbon Neutral.

At Radisson Hotel Group we care for people, communities and planet (http://apo-opa.co/3RGR2s1) and aim to be Net Zero by 2050 based on the approved near-term Science Based Targets. With unique solutions such as 100% carbon neutral Radisson Meetings, we make sustainable hotel stays easy. To facilitate sustainable travel choices, all our hotels are becoming verified on Hotel Sustainability Basics.

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

For more information, visit our corporate website (www.RadissonHotels.com). 

ABOUT RADISSON BLU
Radisson Blu is an upper upscale hotel brand that delivers meaningful and memorable experiences in stylish spaces. Characterized by attention to detail and the Yes I Can! service philosophy, Radisson Blu hotels are designed to make an unforgettable difference by anticipating travelers' needs through carefully curated touchpoints  . Radisson Blu hotels can be found in major cities, key airport gateways, and leisure destinations. Guests and professional business partners can enhance their experience with Radisson Blu by participating in Radisson Rewards, an international loyalty program offering exceptional benefits and rewards.

Radisson Blu is part of the Radisson family of brands, which also includes Radisson Collection, art'otel Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.

For reservations and more information, visit our website: http://apo-opa.co/3RDLte0. 

ABOUT RADISSON
Radisson is an upscale hotel brand that offers Scandinavian inspired hospitality, which enables guests to find more harmony in their travel experience. With natural surroundings and unexpected delights, Radisson inspires the art of being in the moment, helping guests find the right balance for their stay and enabling them to switch off and relax. Radisson hotels can be found in leisure destinations, suburban and city settings, and near airports. Guests and professional business partners can enhance their experience with Radisson by participating in Radisson Rewards, an international loyalty program offering exceptional benefits and rewards.

Radisson is part of the Radisson family of brands, which also includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.

For reservations and more information, visit our website: http://apo-opa.co/3RGuDuY. 

ABOUT RADISSON RED
Radisson RED is an upper upscale hotel brand that presents a playful twist on the conventional. The brand injects new life into hospitality through informal services where anything goes, a vibrant social scene that's waiting to be shared and stylish public spaces with standout design to inspire our guests. Radisson RED hotels are designed to fit the needs of our guests by giving them endless opportunities to tune in and out, switching effortlessly between business and pleasure. Guests and professional business partners can enhance their experience with Radisson RED by participating in Radisson Rewards, an international loyalty program offering exceptional benefits and rewards.

Radisson RED is a part of the Radisson family of brands, which also includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.

For reservations and more information, visit our website: http://apo-opa.co/3RGNjuM.

ABOUT PARK INN BY RADISSON
Park Inn by Radisson is a (upper) midscale hotel brand that delivers stress-free experiences, good food and upbeat environments. Mastering the essentials, Park Inn by Radisson positively lifts our guests' mood for a happy stay – through clever use of color; inspired, contemporary design; and friendly personalized service with surprising, feel-good extras. Park Inn by Radisson hotels can be found in capital cities, around economic hubs, and near airports and railway stations. Guests and professional business partners can enhance their experience with Park Inn by Radisson by participating in Radisson Rewards, an international loyalty program offering exceptional benefits and rewards.

Park Inn by Radisson is a part of the Radisson family of brands, which also includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.

For reservations and more information visit our website: http://apo-opa.co/3RI0v2B.

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Radisson Hotel Group
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Read moreRadisson Hotel Group bolsters African presence with 7 additional hotels and over 1,200 new rooms including a landmark entry in Tanzania

African Energy Week (AEW) 2024 to Drive Investment in African Energy, Announces Second Speaker Lineup

Location: News
African Energy Chamber

With over 125 billion barrels of proven oil reserves, 620 trillion cubic feet of natural gas and abundant opportunities in solar, wind and green hydrogen, Africa has the potential to become a global hub for energy. The International Energy Agency estimates that to meet energy and climate goals, Africa requires over $200 billion in annual investment, highlighting a strategic opportunity for global financiers and project developers.

As such, the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy conference – Africa's premier event for the energy sector – will drive a new wave of investment in the sector. The conference convenes under the mandate of making energy poverty history by 2030, with industry experts and thought-leaders, African governments and NOCs, and energy investors and developers leading discussions on the challenges and opportunities in Africa's energy sector. Taking place from 4–8 November in Cape Town, the event offers unparalleled access to the African industry.

AEW: Invest in African Energy 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.

African governments are revamping fiscal policies and launching new licensing rounds to attract investments and partners, aiming to unlock the full potential of the continent's energy sector. Over 11 licensing rounds are planned for sub-Saharan Africa between 2024 and 2025, all of which aim to attract new investment and bolster project development. At AEW: Invest in African Energy, government representatives will outline optimal energy financing mechanisms and incentives aimed at advancing energy investments. Key speakers include:

  • Birame Soulèye Diop, Minister of Energy, Petroleum and Mines, Senegal
  • Habtamu Itefa Geleta, Minister of Water and Energy, Ethiopia
  • Situmbeko Musokotwane, Minister of Finance and National Planning, Zambia
  • Diamantino Pedro Azevedo, Minister of Mineral Resources, Petroleum and Gas, Angola

African state-owned energy entities have positioned themselves as reliable partners for global energy firms, driving the continent's energy market expansion. During this year's AEW: Invest in African Energy conference, African NOCs and energy associations will discuss investment and partnership opportunities in Africa's energy value chain. In addition to the first AEW: Invest in African Energy speaker lineup, featured speakers include:

  • Proscovia Nabbanje, CEO of the Uganda National Oil Company
  • Zwanani Titus Mathe, CEO, South African National Energy Development Institute

Across Africa, international energy companies are driving a series of large-scale project developments under efforts to unlock high returns, increase energy access while driving sustainable economic growth. Projects such as the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG development – on track for first production this year -; the trio of LNG projects in Mozambique's Rovuma Basin; South Africa's offshore exploration campaigns and onshore gas projects and many more are set to transform the African oil and gas landscape. This creates newfound opportunities for regional and international technology providers, which also play a crucial role in driving Africa's energy renaissance. A strong lineup of IOCs, technologies companies and service providers will discuss ongoing projects, future prospects and efforts to maximize Africa's energy resources at the conference. These include:

  • Ainojie Alex Irune, CEO of Oando Energy Resources
  • Dave Campbell, Senior Vice President of bp in Mauritania and Senegal
  • Dennis Bauer, Senior Executive: Energy Transition Advisor, Neuman & Esser
  • Dennis Malkoc, Business Development Manager, Universal Africa Lines
  • Dmitry Khandoga, Head of International Department, Gazprom PJSC
  • Marica Calabrese, Managing Director and General Manager, Eni Mozambique
  • Matthieu Milandri, Head of Upstream Finance at Trafigura Group
  • Mikhail Chudakov, Head of the Department of Nuclear Energy, International Atomic Energy Agency
  • Nikki Martin, President & CEO,EnerGeo Alliance
  • Nosa Omorodion, Executive Director, SLB
  • Rene Awambeng, Director and Global Head of Client Relations, Afreximbank
  • Taelo Mojapelo, CEO, bp South Africa

During the AEW: Invest in African Energy conference, speakers will showcase projects, highlight energy financing mechanisms and government incentives, and provide insights on best practices for a just and inclusive energy transition, addressing the continent's goals for eradicating energy poverty and promoting environmental sustainability.

Keep following for more exciting announcements about the AEW: Invest in African Energy 2024 speaker lineups! For more information, visit www.AECWeek.com. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Read moreAfrican Energy Week (AEW) 2024 to Drive Investment in African Energy, Announces Second Speaker Lineup

MultiChoice reports resilient performance while expanding its platform

Location: Business
MultiChoice Group

MultiChoice Group (www.MultiChoice.com/) demonstrated resilient operational performance for the year ended March 2024 (FY24), delivering a 26% trading profit margin in South Africa, while increasing trading profit in the Rest of Africa by 48%, despite very challenging macro-economic conditions. Clear strategic milestones were reached, with the group successfully launching Showmax 2.0, SuperSportBet and Moment, all of which are now revenue-generating and supporting the group's future growth prospects.

Download document: https://apo-opa.co/4cj3eXQ

“Four years after setting out a clear strategy of building Africa's entertainment platform of choice and investing in services to support a broader ecosystem, our three core segments are now fully operational: video entertainment, interactive entertainment and fintech. Our focus now shifts to building on these solid foundations to drive growth in these new areas, and on further enhancing business efficiency across our operations.

While we are not alone in feeling the challenges of a weak consumer environment, I am proud of the speed and effectiveness of the team in implementing strategic actions to retain customers, safeguard cash generation and drive costs savings which surpassed our targets. It is the strength of this team, the quality of the underlying business and the clarity of our strategy which underpins my confidence in delivering on our potential,” said Calvo Mawela, MultiChoice Group CEO.

Some key points for the past financial year:

  • Subscriber base: Given the challenging consumer environment, overall active subscribers declined by 9%. This was mainly due to a 13% decline in the Rest of Africa business, with Nigeria, Angola and Zambia most affected, while the South African business was more resilient, declining by only 5%.   
  • Group revenue: increased by 3% on an organic basis. However, due to weaker local currencies and consumer pressure, reported Group revenue declined by 5% to ZAR56.0bn.
  • Subscription revenues: grew by 2% on an organic basis. However, on a reported basis, subscription revenues declined by 7% due to a weaker Naira.
  • Group trading profit: increased 24% on an organic basis, despite the additional ZAR1.4bn investment in Showmax to drive future growth. After factoring in the ZAR4.5bn impact related to foreign exchange weakness, reported trading profit declined by 21% to ZAR7.9bn.
  • Positive operating leverage: Given the positive impact of the lower expenditure (including ZAR1.9bn in cost savings and ZAR1.5bn in reduced decoder subsidies), the group achieved positive operating leverage of 4.3% (i.e. a 3.3% organic revenue increase against a 1% organic reduction in operating expenses).
  • Adjusted core headline earnings: Higher realised hedging gains and benefits from a narrower gap between official and parallel Naira rate, was more than offset by the weaker trading profitability, resulting in adjusted core headline earnings (which now includes losses on cash remittances after tax and minorities) decreasing by 20% to ZAR1.3bn.
  • Free cash flow: amounted to ZAR589m, impacted by lower profitability and the  ZAR1.7bn in Showmax platform payments.
  • Retained cash and cash equivalents: ZAR7.3bn in cash (before short-term commitments) and access to ZAR4.1bn in undrawn borrowing facilities provides significant headroom and flexibility to fund opportunities.

MultiChoice is by far the largest producer of original content on the African continent. In FY24, the group again produced over 6 500 hours of local content and its local content library now has more than 84,000 hours of content, a 12% increase YoY.

The highlight for the year was Shaka Ilembe, which launched on Mzansi Magic in June to become Africa's biggest TV series. Filmed entirely on location in South Africa, it was created through the skills and contributions of over 8 000 people. The premiere episode attracted over four million viewers and was the top-performing show with an audience share of over 45% in its time slot.

Other content highlights of the year was Reyka (season 2), Devil's Peak and White Lies on linear (co-produced with Fremantle, Canal +, Abacus Distribution and BBC Studios-owned Lookout Point) and Spinners, Original Sin: My Son The Killer, and Catch Me a Killer, on streaming. Across Africa, the group launched 3 new proprietary channels - in Ethiopia (Maaddii Abol), Uganda (Pearl Magic Loko) and Mozambique (Maningue Magic Kool) while also producing content in Africa's 4th most spoken language, Oromo.

SuperSport broadcast 34 490 live events during the year – arguably more live sport than any other broadcaster in the world. Highlights included the Rugby World Cup in France, the Cricket World Cup in India, a second  SA20 season in South Africa, AFCON, FIFA Women's World Cup in New Zealand and Australia, as well as the Netball World Cup in Cape Town.

SuperSport Schools more than doubled its registered user base during the year. The fast-growing platform displayed more than 49 000 hours of live programming across 43 different sports codes, covering 900 school sport festivals and events, featuring more than 1 100 schools, and over 14 500 teams.

SEGMENTAL REVIEW

South Africa Pay-TV (MultiChoice South Africa)

Due to a strong focus on retention initiatives, the decline in active subscribers in South Africa was limited to 5%, despite the challenging environment. The base now stands at 7.6 million households.  Power outages experienced on 275 days of the year further discouraged potential subscribers without backup power.

Although the Premium bouquet is trending toward a stable base given the targeted retention efforts, the premium customer tier (which includes the Premium and Compact Plus bouquets) declined by 8%. The mid-market Compact base, which is most exposed to the macro-economic challenges, was down 9%, while the mass-market tier was 2% lower due to pressure in the Family base, the impact of loadshedding, and reduced decoder subsidies.

A consequent 3% decline in subscription revenues and softer advertising income weighed on the segment's total revenues (-2% to ZAR33.6bn), but was partially offset by strong traction from new revenue streams, especially the insurance business (NMSIS) which reported a 35% increase in premium revenue to almost ZAR1bn. Several interventions to reduce costs enabled the SA business to achieve a trading margin of over 26%.  

Rest of Africa Pay-TV (MultiChoice Africa)

The business in the Rest of Africa faced the toughest macro-economic conditions in its core markets with high, double-digit inflation and extreme depreciation of local currencies, (especially in Nigeria, Angola, Kenya and Zambia) which impacted USD revenues by 32%.

The active subscriber base declined to 8.1m, but effective retention efforts contributed to an improved subscriber mix.

Due to the challenging market dynamics, the short-term focus of this business shifted from subscriber growth to safeguard profitability and cash flows. Several cost-saving initiatives were implemented, including scaling back significantly on decoder subsidies (-46% YoY or ZAR1.3bn), and reducing SG&A costs by ZAR500m. These interventions enabled the Rest of Africa business to increase trading profit by 48% YoY to ZAR1.3bn.

Sub-Saharan Africa SVOD (Showmax)

FY24 was a pivotal year for Showmax as it relaunched across 44 markets in sub-Saharan Africa on Peacock's world-class platform, which is 4K/HDR and ATMOS ready. Almost 100% of the eligible customer base was migrated to the new Showmax platform, and 88% of those migrated had reactivated their accounts in the seven weeks to year-end.

Alongside local content from M-Net, Mzansi Magic, Africa Magic and Maisha Magic, Showmax ramped up its local content, releasing 59 original movies and series in SA, Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana (FY23: 48). Popular shows that drove viewership included Tracking Thabo Bester, Koek, The Mommy Club, Youngins, Red Ink, Adulting, Outlaws and Real Housewives of Durban in South Africa, Cheta'm, Real Housewives of Lagos, Dead Serious, Wura and Flawsome in Nigeria, and Single Kiasi and Second Family in Kenya.

Showmax revenues for the year grew by 22% (+22% organic) to ZAR1.0bn, while trading losses increased to ZAR2.6bn. These losses came in below the expected range of ZAR3-4.0bn. As noted before, due to the partnership agreement signed in 2023, 30% of Showmax's funding requirements is contributed by Comcast.

Technology (Irdeto)

Irdeto's strong execution, enabled it to become the market leader in managed security services for video with a 22% market share. It also saw significant success in combatting piracy, taking down some 30 000 streaming piracy services during the year. Revenue increased by 17% (7% organic) driven by external customers across video entertainment, gaming and connected transport, with some additional uplift from a weaker ZAR against the USD. Disciplined cost management supported a 23% trading margin.

Irdeto shipped its first keyless solutions to leading customers, including one of the largest fleet operators in the US market. This resulted in a revenue increase of 119% YoY in the connected transport division, with revenue from new services now representing a combined 35.7% of total revenues. 

Sports betting and interactive entertainment (KingMakers)

KingMakers reported strong growth in the online business in Nigeria, with monthly active users up 37% YoY and online gross gaming revenues up 26% YoY in constant currency. New products were also launched, including BetKing Casino and BetKing FootballGO, a virtual football sportsbook service.

Revenue of USD147m was affected by the weak Naira, while the business reported a positive EBITDA of USD2m. At the end of its December year-end the business had a retained cash balance USD113m to fully fund its growth initiatives.

KingMakers launched the SuperSportBet business in South Africa in January 2024. Its pre-game shows and live feed integration with SuperPicks, as well as the Playbook preview show were key drivers of uptake, further supported by SuperSportBet becoming the official betting partner of local soccer clubs, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.

Fin-tech (Moment)

After being founded during FY23, Moment officially launched in FY24. The business played a vital role in the Showmax relaunch stepping up to fill a critical payments gap. In January this year, Moment also began processing MultiChoice's payments for DStv, reaching a milestone of processing USD85m in payments in early March 2024.

To-date, Moment has processed local and cross-border card payments in 44 Showmax markets and is already accounting for more than 20% of Group's payment volumes. It also joined real-time payment networks in 18 countries, including South Africa, and is currently piloting instant payment and account activation for DStv.

The business raised an additional USD22m of funding, with MultiChoice contributing USD8m. As a result, Moment is now valued at USD82m and MultiChoice owns a 26% stake.

FUTURE PROSPECTS

The linear video-entertainment business remains the mainstay of the group's operations and provides a valuable base from which to expand its service offerings. The new streaming, interactive entertainment, fintech and connectivity services are having a positive impact on the business, and more importantly, on the lives of its customers. Going forward, the group will focus its efforts on scaling Showmax, Moment, SuperSportBet, as well as on driving growth in insurance (NMSIS), DStv Internet and DStv Stream.

To counter the challenges around an uncertain economic recovery globally and across the group's operating footprint, the group will continue to drive business efficiency and cost optimisation, with an increased cost savings target of ZAR2bn.

Not only should this mitigate the ongoing impact of currency volatility and consumer weakness on performance, but together with the company's strategic plans to continue adapting its platforms to cater to customers' evolving needs, it positions the group well to prosper once currencies stabilize and economies rebound.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.

MultiChoice Group Contact Details: 
Litlhare Moteetee
Senior Manager: Corporate Communications 
Litlhare.Moteetee@Multichoice.co.za     

Meloy Horn, Head of Investor Relations 
Mobile: +27 82 772 7123 
meloy.horn@multichoice.com    

About MultiChoice Group:
MultiChoice Group (MCG), listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), is a leading provider of entertainment and related consumer services, with an expanding ecosystem, underpinned by scalable technologies, and a track record now spanning almost 40 years.  MCG provides video entertainment products and services through its linear and streaming platforms to 23.5m households across 50 countries on the African continent and continues to grow by producing and acquiring the best local, sport and international content and offering tiered subscription packages and aggregated streaming services to its customer base. MCG's superior technology capabilities enables it to continue innovating around distribution, digital and payment solutions and content security to offer the best customer experience across the continent. Reaching up to 100 million individuals on a daily basis, the MultiChoice Group is using its scale and distribution to expand its platform to include sports betting and interactive entertainment, fin-tech services, household services (focused on internet connectivity and emergency response services) and ed-tech. Irdeto, MCG's technology business, provides platform cybersecurity services which protect over 6bn devices and applications globally for some of the world's best media and technology brands, as well as clients in the connected industries sector. 

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Pandor believes BRICS has opportunity to shape a ‘refreshed’ global order

Location: News

Pandor believes BRICS has opportunity to shape a 'refreshed' global order

The world is at a crucial turning point, requiring decisive leadership and innovative ideas, and BRICS has a unique opportunity to influence a refreshed global order.

This is according to International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, who spoke in Russia on Tuesday.

“The BRICS bloc is a legitimate voice of the global South regarding global governance reform. We also remain a critical player in global agenda setting for economic, political and social cooperation,” Pandor said. 

The Foreign Ministers from the expanded BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) group of nations met for a two-day meeting focused on current international relations, global governance reform and conflict resolution.

The meeting, chaired by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, is the first since the bloc expanded in 2023 to include Egypt, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Ethiopia. 

The Minister believes that the expansion of BRICS is evidence of the bloc’s growing importance and the critical role of cooperation in collectively promoting the shared interests and values of emerging and developing countries.

“It also signals our hunger for a body in the globe that embraces progressive ideals and seeks to alter the current nature of international relations to a more inclusive, equitable and development-oriented world.”

She told her colleagues that the “current complex divided global environment” demands that BRICS continue to advocate for multilateralism to play a critical role in fostering stability and cooperation in times of significant geopolitical uncertainty.  

“Therefore, for our collective, multilateralism remains the only solution to successfully address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, underdevelopment, climate change, migration, disease, human trafficking, terrorism, and hunger, and to ensure an environment of sustainable peace and continuous development.  

“I am convinced that our mutually beneficial cooperation through BRICS uplifts communities instead of increasing their vulnerability,” she added. 

The Minister said it is evident that the world is currently falling short of achieving the development goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 

This, she said, was due to increased economic risk for the most vulnerable and persistent low growth for those with the greatest need. 

“We have to urgently accelerate our collective action to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.” 

South Africa, Pandor stressed, is committed to a successful Summit of the Future. 

“We are convinced that it could support efforts that bridge the development divide and provide new solutions to tomorrow’s challenges. 

“We believe the summit presents an opportunity to revitalise the multilateral system and fulfil our promises to reform the current system of global governance to make it more representative and inclusive for everyone,” Pandor said. – SAnews.gov.za 

 

Gabisile
Tue, 06/11/2024 - 13:07

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Call to end Palestinian suffering

Location: News

Call to end Palestinian suffering

South Africa will continue to do everything within its power to preserve the existence of the Palestinian people as a group, and to end all acts of apartheid and genocide.

This is according to the International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, who spoke in Russia on Tuesday.

The Foreign Ministers from the expanded BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) group of nations met for a two-day meeting focused on current international relations, global governance reform and conflict resolution.

Pandor told her colleagues that South Africa welcomes the order by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) of 24 May 2024, ordering Israel to halt military action in Rafah. 

“We see the provisional measures ordered by the court thus far as a signal of a decisive victory for the international rule of law and a significant milestone in the search for justice for the Palestinian people. 

“Nevertheless, the injury to International Human Rights Law, inflicted by Israel, remains significant. We, therefore, call on the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court to also act to ensure accountability for those committing war crimes.” 

The meeting, chaired by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, is the first since the bloc expanded in 2023 to include Egypt, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia.

Pandor reiterated South Africa’s call for a two-State solution, which is of the view that it would bring lasting peace and address the root causes of the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. 

“A solution is long overdue, and an agreement must urgently be negotiated. The agreement must result in the establishment of an independent and viable Palestinian State, based on 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital that exists side by side, in peace and security with Israel.” 

She also echoed the country’s firm support for the full membership of Palestine as a member State of the United Nations (UN).

“Please allow me also to again emphasise the urgent need for BRICS to contribute to the reform of the UN Security Council. The inability of the Security Council to act and respond effectively to conflict situations such as in Gaza further supports the sentiments of this urgent call to reform.” 

She called on all UN member States to support Africa’s call for the historic injustice committed against the continent to be “remedied” through an acknowledgement of the role it plays in current global affairs.

Delaying reform of the Security Council, she said, presents serious negative implications for the multilateral system, undermining the credibility of global peace and security and threatening to reverse the gains made in the past 78 years.

“Please allow me to conclude my intervention today with a sincere call to all of us to capitalise on the current opportunities for partnership in this meeting and to tackle global challenges that stand in our way towards a stronger and more empowered global South in a stable multipolar world.” – SAnews.gov.za

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Tue, 06/11/2024 - 13:37

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Historic Win for Gelant at Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon

Location: MyPR

Ten years after winning his first Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon title, Elroy Gelant turned back the hands of time with another memorable performance at South Africa’s premiere 21km race. The Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon, incorporating the Athletics South Africa (ASA) Half Marathon Championships, got off to a wet and windy start on Marine …

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Local trio brings flavour to Scottburgh with launch of stylish Wild Coffee Shop

Location: MyPR

Residents and visitors to the stunning Scottburgh on KZN South Coast can now enjoy world-class coffee and a healthy meal in the stylish setting of the newly launched Wild Coffee Shop. Started by three local entrepreneurs, Wild Coffee Shop opened its doors to patrons at its corner location on Scott Street (opposite the Blue Marlin …

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African Union Election Observation Mission arrives in South Africa ahead of the 2024 General Elections

Location: News

African Union (AU)
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The African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM) has arrived in South Africa ahead of the 29 May 2024 General Elections. At the invitation of the Government of South Africa and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) of South Africa, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, approved the deployment of the short-term AUEOM to assess and report on the conduct of this election.

The AUEOM is led by H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta, former President of the Republic of Kenya and is comprised of 60 short-term observers (STOs) drawn from ambassadors accredited to the African Union, officials of election management bodies, members of African civil society organisations, African election experts, human rights specialists, gender and media experts, and representatives of youth organizations. The observers are drawn from 24 countries which include Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burundi, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Eswatini, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Sudan, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

The AUEOM will base its assessment on the legal framework governing elections in the Republic of South Africa and the OAU/AU Declaration on the Principles Governing Democratic Elections, the standards and obligations stipulated in the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG), and the International Declaration of Principles (DoP) for International Election Observation among others.

The Mission shall interact with state authorities, the Independent Electoral Commission, political parties, the media, civil society organisations and representatives of the international community. The Mission will also interact with other election observation missions deployed to observe the 2024 General Elections in South Africa.

The Mission will release its preliminary findings and recommendations on the conduct of the elections on 31 May 2024 in a press conference in Johannesburg, South Africa.  A final and comprehensive report will be released within two months from the date of announcement of final election results and will be posted on the AU Commission website.

The Mission's Secretariat is located at the Hilton Hotel, Sandton, South Africa.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).

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The Coca-Cola System in Kenya Announces Major Investment

Location: Business
Coca Cola Beverages Africa

The Coca-Cola system, consisting of The Coca-Cola Company and its authorised bottler Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (https://www.CCBAGroup.com), has announced its intention to grow its investment in Kenya by up to $175 million over the next five years, should the business achieve its anticipated growth targets in the country.

Hosting Kenyan President H.E. Dr William Ruto at The Coca-Cola Company's headquarters in Atlanta, Sunil Gupta, CEO of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, said, “The Coca-Cola system has been an integral part of Kenya's landscape for more than 75 years. Today, we are excited to announce our intention to strengthen this legacy through a substantial investment.”

“This investment is aimed at accelerating the Coca-Cola system's capacity and capability expansion over the next five years. Our decision to invest underscores our belief in the long-term potential of Kenya's economy,” Gupta said.

Luisa Ortega, President of The Coca-Cola Company's Africa Operating Unit, emphasized the importance of collaboration with the government to create a stable policy environment. "The Coca-Cola system has been part of communities in Kenya for more than seven decades. We are excited to continue growing our business and supporting communities across Kenya for many years to come," said Ortega.

The Coca-Cola system has a rich legacy of refreshing Africa and making a difference in the East Africa region, where it is a major employer, directly employing 10,000 people.

The Coca-Cola system also works with over 500,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises across the region, giving the company a direct connection to the experiences shared by many businesses in Kenya and across the East African region.

“Our value chain supports livelihoods for over a million people in distribution, sales and other roles,” said Gupta. “We source close to 8,000 metric tons of mango puree from East African farmers. We believe in the region's potential and its ability to achieve significant growth through collaboration between public and private sectors. Our business in Kenya is centered on a local approach - we hire locally, produce locally, distribute locally and source locally.”

“We are optimistic and fully committed to Kenya's future. We foresee great social and economic advancement, and this is why we continue to invest in our Kenyan business as well as community programs that help strengthen Kenya's prosperity,” Ortega concluded.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca Cola Beverages Africa.

ISSUED BY:
Wendy Thole-Muir
Group Head of Reputation and Communication
Coca-Cola Beverages Africa
Tel: +27 83 795 8524
Email: WThole-Muir@ccbagroup.com

Clifford Machoka
Senior Director
Public Affairs
Communication & Sustainability
East & Central Africa
Coca-Cola Africa
Tel: +254 734 109 260/1
Email: cmachoka@coca-cola.com

About The Coca‑Cola Company:
The Coca‑Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company's purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. We sell multiple billion-dollar brands across several beverage categories worldwide. Our portfolio of sparkling soft drink brands includes Coca‑Cola, Sprite and Fanta. Our water, sports, coffee, and tea brands include Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Gold Peak and Ayataka. Our juice, value-added dairy and plant-based beverage brands include Minute Maid, Simply, innocent, Del Valle, fairlife and AdeS. We're constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people's lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain. Together with our bottling partners, we employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Follow us on Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/42DbAWX), Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4bKvZ0m) and LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/4bpOQ03).

About Coca-Cola Beverages Africa:
Coca-Cola Beverages Africa is the 8th largest Coca-Cola bottling partner in the world by revenue, and the largest on the continent. It accounts for over 40% of all Coca-Cola products sold in Africa by volume. With over 18,000 employees in Africa, CCBA services more than 720,000 customers with a host of international and local brands. The group was formed in July 2016 after the successful combination of the southern and east Africa bottling operations of the non-alcoholic ready-to-drink beverages businesses of The Coca-Cola Company, SABMiller plc and Gutsche Family Investments. CCBA shareholders are currently: The Coca-Cola Company 66.5% and Gutsche Family Investments 33.5%. CCBA operates in 15 countries, including its six key markets of South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Mozambique, and Namibia, as well as Tanzania, Botswana, Ghana, Zambia, the islands of Comoros and Mayotte, Eswatini, Lesotho and Malawi.

Learn more at  https://www.CCBAGroup.com

Follow us on LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/4dfq8AC)

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Women in Africa face widespread discrimination in family laws

Location: News
Equality Now

Discrimination against women and girls remains widespread in family laws across Africa, finds new research by Equality Now (www.EqualityNow.org). Analysis of twenty African countries reveals gender inequality in marriage, divorce, custody, and property rights is being perpetuated by sex discrimination institutionalized within legal systems and customary laws. While some significant legal reforms have been achieved, progress has been slow, inconsistent, and hampered by setbacks, lack of political will, and weak implementation.

The report, Gender Inequality in Family Laws in Africa: An Overview of Key Trends in Select Countries (http://apo-opa.co/3V0dD4R), identifies how overlap and contradictions in legal frameworks make the interpretation and application of family laws confusing, creating complex challenges for harmonizing legal systems. 

The impacts of discriminatory family laws can be profound, putting women and girls at greater risk of sexual and gender-based violence and making them more dependent and vulnerable by curtailing their economic opportunities and reducing their decision-making power.

Full equality in family laws has not been achieved in any of the countries reviewed, namely Algeria, Angola, Botswana, Burundi, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, The Gambia, and Tunisia.

Pressing need for comprehensive legal reforms

Africa is home to diverse ethnic, linguistic, and religious groups with varied family law structures. Historically, communities developed intricate and deep-rooted systems of customary laws governing family relations. The introduction of European legal systems and religion resulted in a blend of customary, religious, and statutory laws that still shape legislation and practice through legal pluralism.

This complex patchwork is influenced by evolving social dynamics. Civil, customary, and religious law, such as Islamic or Christian canon law, sometimes encroach or conflict, and many provisions in religious and customary laws discriminate against women and girls.

Esther Waweru, report co-author and a Senior Legal Advisor at Equality Now, explains, “Culture and religion frequently act as major impediments in the struggle for family law equality, stalling reforms. Claw-back clauses and retrogressive practices water down the positive impact of progressive laws, and there is backlash from anti-rights movements seeking to reverse hard-won gains in areas such as eliminating child marriage and female genital mutilation.”

“Stagnation is also a problem, with governments pledging to reform discriminatory laws but failing to take meaningful action. In some instances, progressive family codes remain in limbo awaiting enactment.”

Progress on child marriage, but shortfalls remain

Child marriage is one area of notable progress. Absolute bans on marriage under 18 exist in Côte d'Ivoire, DRC, Egypt, The Gambia, Kenya, Malawi, and Mozambique. However, the persistence of child marriage in certain communities underscores the need for a multi-sectoral approach (http://apo-opa.co/3UFhEKR) incorporating awareness raising about the legal consequences and harms of child marriage.

Concerningly, laws in Cameroon, Nigeria, Senegal, South Sudan, Sudan, and Tanzania still allow child marriage, while in Algeria, Angola, Botswana, Burundi, Ethiopia, South Africa, and Tunisia, the legal age of marriage is 18, but exceptions are permitted.

Marital rape

Countries need greater protections against gender-based violence, especially intimate partner violence. Marital rape is not prohibited in Algeria, Kenya, Sudan, and The Gambia, while Northern Nigeria's Penal Code allows marital rape and “corrective” assault within marriage.

Marital rape is only criminalized upon separation in Tanzania, and in Burundi, the penalty is under 30 days imprisonment or a fine. Tunisia's law states a wife must fulfill her duties in line with ‘usages and customs,' putting women at risk of marital rape as a wife's traditional role includes pleasing her husband sexually.

Malawi's courts have stated that rape does not extend to marriage. Customary law presumes perpetual consent to sex within marriage, and Malawi's civil law appears to support this by providing only limited circumstances in which a wife can deny her husband sex, such as poor health or when legally separated.

Countries like Côte d'Ivoire, Mozambique, and South Africa can be commended for explicitly criminalizing marital rape. It's imperative that all nations introduce bans, accompanied by awareness-raising campaigns and accessible support services for survivors. Effective legal enforcement is also crucial, as is providing comprehensive training for officials in the criminal justice, healthcare, and social service sectors.

Discriminatory marriage practices

In most African countries, registration of civil marriages is a legal requirement governed by specific laws formalizing marriage. Women in customary and religious marriages are at greater risk of discrimination as they don't have the same legal protection as people in civil marriages. Same-sex partners also experience this, as marriages and civil unions are largely reserved for heterosexual couples.

Polygamy is legally permitted in Cameroon, Egypt, Kenya, Senegal, and South Sudan, with men allowed four wives in Sudan and Senegal. Côte d'Ivoire, Mozambique, and South Africa have statutory laws for monogamy, but customary and religious laws and practices continue to recognize polygamy without adequate protections for women in polygamous marriages. Other harmful traditional practices, such as widow inheritance and surrogate marriage, treat women as property.

Discrimination in divorce and child custody laws

Countries such as Sudan discriminate by granting husbands more powers to initiate divorce. In Algeria, women can only request a divorce in cases of abandonment, violation of the marriage contract, or if alimony is unpaid. In both Sudan and Egypt, in some no-fault divorces, a woman must pay financial compensation to her ex-husband.

Child custody laws have been reformed in Angola, Botswana, Burundi, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, DRC, Mozambique, and Senegal, ensuring guardianship rights for both parents, irrespective of marital status.

Sex discrimination remains in countries like Senegal, where the father is the legal guardian regardless of the mother's caregiving role. In Tunisia and Algeria, fathers retain legal guardianship even if the mother has custody. Algeria and Sudan strip a mother's rights to custody upon remarriage, but this doesn't apply to men.

Matrimonial property and inheritance

Matrimonial property laws is another area that has undergone considerable reforms. Côte d'Ivoire, Kenya, Malawi, and South Africa have introduced legal provisions for equitable distribution of matrimonial property. In Ethiopia, Nigeria, South Africa, and The Gambia, laws recognize the right of married women to acquire, own, maintain, and dispose of their property.

However, some customary and religious laws undermine women's inheritance rights. In Algeria, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, Egypt, Nigeria, South Sudan, Sudan, and Tunisia, women and girls receive less inheritance than men and boys.

Women are disadvantaged by cultural biases that influence judicial decisions, with unequal distribution particularly evident in divorce and widowhood. In some countries, wives can be excluded from inheriting their husbands' property. One example is Angola, where customary laws exclude wives from inheriting their deceased husband's property, and widows are sometimes forced from their matrimonial home.

Aligning family laws with international human rights standards

Family laws in Africa must align fully with international human rights standards. Many countries have ratified key treaties like the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa (Maputo Protocol). However, implementation and enforcement of these treaties remain inconsistent, with discriminatory family laws and policies remaining in statutes and practices.

Waweru concludes, “It's especially concerning that in most countries where national judiciaries and African Union judicial bodies have explicitly called for law reform in their decisions, governments haven't implemented these changes. And even where laws are equitable, enforcement is frequently inadequate and biased against women, and women may not know their legal rights.”

“To safeguard women and girls within family law, it is imperative for all African nations to promptly enact robust legislative and policy frameworks that align with international and regional human rights obligations.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Equality Now.

Notes to editors
For media requests, please contact
Tara Carey
Global Head of Media
at Tcarey@equalitynow.org
T. +44 (0)7971556340 (WhatsApp)

About Equality Now: 
Equality Now is an international non-governmental human rights organization that works to protect and promote the rights of all women and girls around the world by combining grassroots activism with international, regional, and national legal advocacy.

Our international network of lawyers, activists, and supporters achieve legal and systemic change by holding governments responsible for enacting and enforcing laws and policies that end legal inequality, sex trafficking, online sexual exploitation, sexual violence, and harmful practices such as female genital mutilation and child marriage.

For more information about Equality Now go to www.EqualityNow.org, and follow on X (Twitter) at http://apo-opa.co/3yiYRgN and Linkedin at http://apo-opa.co/3wrGPIT.

About Africa Family Law Network (AFLN): 
Gender Inequality in Family Laws in Africa: An Overview of Key Trends in Select Countries is a critical data source informing legal, policy, and practice reforms to end sexism and discrimination in family laws in Africa. It will be used by Equality Now, the Africa Family Law Network (AFLN) (http://apo-opa.co/4bkc0ot), and partners to help facilitate work with the policy and judicial organs of the African Union, particularly the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women in Africa to influence change.

AFLN was launched in October 2022 and aims to formulate a regional alliance in Africa amongst national advocates and groups to raise collective action and accelerate organizing and mobilization efforts toward family law reform.

AFLN is led by founding partners Equality Now, The African Women's Development and Communication Network (FEMNET) (http://apo-opa.co/3WIinxt), Musawah (http://apo-opa.co/3UZrM2h), and the Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA Network) (http://apo-opa.co/4bkz5r2).

AFLN is part of the Global Campaign for Equality in Family Law (http://apo-opa.co/4bDdSbF), which calls on all states to ensure equality for women and men under the law in all matters relating to the family, regardless of religion, culture, and tradition.

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Africa’s Business Heroes Takes 40 Entrepreneurs to China and Extends 2024 Application Deadline

Location: Business
Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH)

Between April 20-27, the Africa's Business Heroes (ABH) Prize Competition (www.AfricaBusinessHeroes.org), a philanthropic initiative sponsored by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy, hosted 40 participants—consisting of top 10 Heroes, other finalists and partners from across Africa—in Hangzhou, China. Participants engaged in an immersive experience at Alibaba's headquarters in Hangzhou and have returned to their home countries enriched with valuable insights to further enhance their entrepreneurial endeavors on the continent.

During their visit, the ABH Heroes (spanning cohorts from 2019 to 2023) participated in a wide range of activities. These included deep dives that explored various facets of the digital economy from cloud computing, AI-driven logistics to e-commerce villages. They participated in a series of workshops and site visits—all designed to elevate entrepreneurs to a higher level of success. The Heroes also exchanged knowledge and explored opportunities for collaboration with business leaders from Alibaba and with each other. These activities provided the participants with new knowledge and perspectives that they can potentially apply to overcome challenges, seize opportunities and scale their businesses.

Diarra BOUSSO, Founder & Creative Director of Diarrablu and ABH 2020 top 10 Hero, who was among the participants in the trip to China, expresses her gratitude for the experience, stating: “This trip was so inspiring in so many ways. First, meeting all these entrepreneurs who are the top entrepreneurs on the African continent and spending a week together was an incredible experience. And second: being immersed in the world of Alibaba and all the companies Jack Ma and his team built over time and understanding the vision behind it was like a dream come true.”

In another exciting development, ABH is extending its deadline for 2024 entries from May 19 to June 9 to accommodate more entrepreneurs eager to participate in the competition. Candidates selected for the top 50 will gain access to a host of resources, including training, mentorship and networking opportunities, as well as a supportive network of fellow African business leaders. US$1.5 million in grant funding will be distributed among the top 10 finalists; the first prize winner will receive an award of US$300,000.

This year, ABH has also hosted information sessions and community events across the continent to facilitate the application process and nurture a vibrant entrepreneurial community. These events have taken place in South Africa, Kenya, Zambia, Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria and Côte d'Ivoire, with upcoming sessions scheduled for Egypt, Ethiopia, Rwanda and Senegal. These events are conducted in partnership with local entrepreneur organizations and key ABH stakeholders including judges, Heroes and partners.

To date, ABH has received applications from entrepreneurs spanning all 54 African countries. Entrepreneurs from across the continent – regardless of sector, age or gender – are invited to participate. Applications can be submitted in English or French at: https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/en/apply-now.

Individuals are also encouraged to nominate eligible entrepreneurs who they believe are creating impactful and sustainable solutions to challenging issues here: https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/en/nominate

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH).

Press Contact:
Africa's Business Heroes Press Room: 
abh.press@list.alibaba-inc.com

For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact:
English: 
Tracy Walakira 
tracy.walakira@apo-opa.com

French / Arabic: 
Malika Bouayad 
malika.bouayad@apo-opa.com

Follow ABH on:
X (https://apo-opa.info/3KY3OQs)
LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.info/3L1Cgda)
Instagram (https://apo-opa.info/3KZTXKa)
Facebook (https://apo-opa.info/3ylgNE9) and
YouTube (https://apo-opa.info/3YDG5bH)

For more information about ABH 2024, please visit https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/en/.

About Africa's Business Heroes:
The Africa's Business Heroes Prize Competition is a philanthropic initiative sponsored by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy. It aims to support, inspire and enable the next generation of African entrepreneurs across all sectors who are building a brighter future for the continent, by offering grant funding, training programs and support for the development of an entrepreneurial ecosystem. Over 10 years, each year the ABH Prize Competition features 10 entrepreneur finalists as they pitch their business to win a share of US$1.5 million in grant money.

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#DiscoverMyAfrica, a Celebration of Creative Economy on Africa Month

Location: News

African Union (AU)
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A thriving creative economy fuels innovation, jobs, and economic growth across Africa. Recognizing this potential, the African Union and Google Africa join forces to launch the #DiscoverMyAfrica Shorts Challenge, a month-long campaign of the continent's rich diversity, heritage, and vibrant spirit.

In celebration of Africa Month,YouTube creators across Africa are invited to share short videos capturing their unique perspectives using the #DiscoverMyAfrica hashtag. The challenge encourages them to showcase various facets of African life, from music and art to food, fashion, and local landmarks. A curated playlist of African-inspired music on YouTube Music fuels inspiration and accompanies these creative expressions.

This initiative goes beyond celebration. As Ms. Chido Mpemba, AU Youth Envoy, states, "#DiscoverMyAfrica empowers African youth to share their stories and rich cultural heritage globally." By providing a platform for African voices, the challenge fosters cultural exchange and positions Africa as a hub of creative energy. It's about unlocking the vibrant future of Africa's creative landscape, aligning with the vision of a digitally-enabled Africa harnessing its cultural wealth for economic growth and social progress.

"YouTube is committed to supporting the diverse voices and talents that make up Africa's creative landscape," said Addy Awofisayo, Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa at YouTube. "These initiatives provide valuable resources and platforms for African filmmakers, musicians, and content creators to share their stories and connect with global audiences."

In addition to the challenge Google - African Union partnership will further celebrate Africa Month with a series of programs designed to elevate African musicians and creators. The "Up Close With" series, a platform where African music's brightest stars get up close and personal about their music and journey, will feature intimate conversations and live performances by Grammy-nominated superstars Musa Keys (South Africa) and Ayra Starr (Nigeria). These exclusive sessions will offer a rare glimpse into the artistry and creative processes of these celebrated musicians, with live performances of their chart-topping hits. The sessions will be recorded and uploaded to the artists' YouTube channels, allowing fans worldwide to experience the magic.

The #DiscoverMyAfrica Challenge is part of the African Union's collaborative effort in driving innovation through strategic partnership with Google, through the Office of the Youth Envoy, Make Africa Digital (MAD) initiative. The MAD initiative is implemented under the African Union's Digital Transformation Strategy 2020-2030 which envisions an “integrated and inclusive digital society and economy in Africa that improves the quality of life of Africa's citizens “The MAD initiative, launched in 2023 has been domesticated in six countries - Ethiopia, Madagascar, Ghana, South Sudan, Senegal and Zambia, reaching over 4000 young Africans with innovative skills to leverage the digital economy. The #DiscoverMyAfrica Shorts Challenge will further emphasize the innovative prowess of young Africans through talent, music and story-telling.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).

Read more#DiscoverMyAfrica, a Celebration of Creative Economy on Africa Month

Launch of cutting-edge recycling facility in Namibia

Location: News
Coca Cola Beverages Africa

A N$24 million (over US$1.2million) investment through a partnership between Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) (www.CCBAgroup.com) in Namibia and Plastic Packaging has culminated in the opening of a new polyethylene terephthalate (PET) flaking plant in Okahandja which will double the capacity of the only mechanical recycler of plastic waste in the country.

The plant was officially inaugurated by the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Pohamba Shifeta.

“The Coca-Cola system aims to drive systemic change through a circular economy for packaging. We are leading the industry to help collect and recycle a bottle or can for every one we sell by 2030. We have a responsibility to help solve complex plastic waste challenges facing our planet and society, and we're leveraging our scale and reach to achieve our sustainability goals and reduce packaging waste,” said CCBA Chief Public Affairs, Communication and Sustainability Officer, Tshidi Ramogase.

“This facility is an example of how we work with partners across business, government and civil society to support or create closed loop systems to ensure our packaging is collected and recycled or reused.

“Supporting the establishment of a circular economy for packaging has both environmental and economic benefits since recycling has the potential to create jobs and to empower the informal waste collection sector in a circular economy.

“Unlike a traditional linear economy in which packaging is made, used and disposed of; a circular economy preserves the economic value of packaging through robust collection and recycling systems,” said Ramogase.

The completion of this cutting-edge recycling facility will enable Namibia Polymer Recyclers (NPR), a subsidiary of Plastic Packaging, to recycle up to 500 tons per month.

The recycling plant transforms discarded beverage bottles made from PET material into PET flakes with an international market value. The flaking process of post-consumer PET bottles involves sorting, shredding it into PET flakes, hot-washing and drying of flakes, which are then sent for further processing into recycled PET pellets and other end-uses.

This reduces the need to use virgin PET, while diverting waste from landfills and the environment.

“We are investing in infrastructure and exploring ways to support additional recycled PET capacity in each of the regions where we operate. These investments not only provide a source of recycled content for our packaging but also create additional demand for empty packages, driving increased collection.

“At CCBA, we are a proud industry leader in developing increasingly sustainable ways to produce, distribute and sell our products. We use our industry leadership to be part of the solution to achieve positive change and to build a more sustainable future for our planet,” said Ramogase.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca Cola Beverages Africa.

Issued By:
Enid Johr
PACS Director
CCBA in Namibia
Tel: +264 81 778 5381
Email: ejohr@ccbagroup.com

Wendy Thole-Muir
Head: Reputation and Communication
Coca-Cola Beverages Africa
Tel: +27 83 795 8524
Email: WThole-Muir@ccbagroup.com

Follow us on:
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4dfq8AC

About CCBA: 
CCBA is the 8th largest Coca-Cola bottling partner in the world by revenue, and the largest on the continent. It accounts for over 40% of all Coca-Cola products sold in Africa by volume. With over 18,000 employees in Africa, CCBA services more than 720,000 customers with a host of international and local brands. The group was formed in July 2016 after the successful combination of the southern and east Africa bottling operations of the non-alcoholic ready-to-drink beverages businesses of The Coca-Cola Company, SABMiller plc and Gutsche Family Investments. CCBA shareholders are currently: The Coca-Cola Company 66.5% and Gutsche Family Investments 33.5%. CCBA operates in 15 countries, including its six key markets of South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Mozambique and Namibia, as well as Tanzania, Botswana, Ghana, Zambia, the islands of Comoros and Mayotte, Eswatini, Lesotho, and Malawi.
Learn more at https://www.CCBAgroup.com

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World Nuclear Association to Highlight Southern Africa’s Nuclear Prospects

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

Director General of the World Nuclear Association (WNA) Dr. Sama Bilbao y León will speak at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) forum in Paris this May, unpacking unprecedented opportunities in southern Africa's energy sector. 

The WNA is an international organization that promotes nuclear power with the goal of tripling nuclear capacity by 2050 to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. On the African continent, South Africa is currently the only country with an operational nuclear power plant – the 1,860 MW Koeberg Nuclear Power Station – which accounts for approximately 5% of power generation. Last December, the country's Department of Mineral Resources and Energy announced plans to procure 2,500 MW of additional nuclear capacity and is in the process of seeking bids to commission new projects.

Organized by Energy Capital & Power, IAE 2024 (https://apo-opa.co/3UMOOtQ) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 14-15, 2024 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

Following the discovery of large uranium deposits in eastern Uganda, the East African nation is forming a joint venture with South Korea and Russia to construct two nuclear power facilities totaling 15,000 MW. Burkina Faso is partnering with Russia's Rosatom to construct a nuclear power plant, while Ethiopia and Zimbabwe have also signed agreements with Russia to cooperate on nuclear technology and infrastructure development. Rwanda is developing a nuclear reactor pilot project in-country, expected to be operational by 2026.

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

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Pandor welcomes Egypt into family of BRICS nations

Location: News

Pandor welcomes Egypt into family of BRICS nations

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, has welcomed Egypt into the family of BRICS nations.

“This development further enhances the role the South plays in global matters,” she said on Friday. 

The BRICS grouping of major emerging economies – Brazil, India, China, South Africa and Russia –  has admitted four new members. These include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates. 

Pandor was speaking in Pretoria where she was co-chairing the 10th Session of the Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) with her counterpart, Egypt Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sameh Shoukry.

Meanwhile, Pandor said South Africa and Egypt need to exponentially increase trade and investment. 

“In this regard, partnerships between our private sectors and Sstate-owned entities are crucial. This also entails the need to formally establish and launch a Business Council,” she said. 

The Minister announced on Friday that a decision on the Business Council has been taken and once operational, this structure will go a long way in coordinating and galvanising trade and investment opportunities. 

She also asked her counterpart to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), which will facilitate easier trade.

“As an important blueprint and contributor to integration, the AfCFTA lessens the barriers towards trade, promotes preferential trade and provides an enabling framework, which will be mutually beneficial to both our two countries and the continent in general.”

She stated that long bonds of friendship, solidarity and collaboration underpin their relationship. 

Pandor also paid tribute to Egypt for supporting the country’s anti-apartheid movement, which eventually led to the demise of the old order and the creation of a democratic and free South Africa.

Pandor believes that the depth and impact of the bilateral relationship is very important. “The Cape to Cairo nexus should not only be one of our guiding lights but should highlight the importance of regional integration.” 

JCC

Meanwhile, Pandor said the framework provided by the JCC entails that the constituent committees cover a wide range of areas of bilateral cooperation. 

These include trade and investment, agriculture and agro-processing, infrastructure development, water resources management, health, financial services, tourism, transport, information technology, communications, women and people with disabilities, judicial matters, sport, arts and culture, people-to-people links and consular issues. 

She also announced that several Agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are expected to be concluded during the session. 

Conflict 

She highlighted several conflicts and wars that have erupted and called on the international community to be vigilant and redouble its efforts to promote peace, stability and development. 

“The United Nations, our premier guarantor of global order as enshrined in its charter, and the regional organisations should remain seized and be decisive in addressing these matters.” 

However, Pandor said the world was witnessing an attack on the global system of multilateralism and its institutions of governance.

“The world is seeing the rise of unilateralism and impunity that threatens to erode the very foundations of multilateralism, international law and the creation of a just and equitable world.”

South Africa, she said, is deeply concerned about the unfolding tragedy that has befallen the people of Palestine. 

“The catastrophe that is happening before our eyes in the Gaza Strip, with the destruction carried out by the occupying state of Israel, and the humanitarian disaster therein, is a collective blemish on the moral conscience of the world.” 

She also spoke about the unresolved plight of the Saharawi people. 

“Silencing the Guns on our continent is a pressing challenge that the African Union and the Regional Economic Communities should continue to address.” 

She reiterated South Africa’s position, which views dialogue, mediation and negotiations as vital for the peaceful resolution of conflicts. 

“In this regard, it is important not to further delay the reforms needed to transform the United Nations, particularly the United Nations Security Council, and for it to reflect the realities of today. In this endeavour, although North-South collaboration remains important, the Global South should remain united in ensuring that its voice is resoundingly clear.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 15:32

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Y’Africa, the TV show that showcases African talent: Orange announces a third season dedicated to the continent’s athletes

Location: News
Orange Middle East and Africa

Orange (www.Orange.com) is launching the third season of its flagship program Y'Africa, which will be broadcast weekly from mid-April on 15 national TV channels across Africa; This new season is dedicated to the journeys of 28 rising sporting talents from 12 countries; Like the first two seasons, it is directed by Dan Assayag and produced by Fame Productions; Season 3 has 7 episodes, each 52 minutes long.

The Y'Africa project was launched by Orange in February 2020. The first two seasons were very successful, not only on the 15 African terrestrial TV channels on which it was broadcast, but also on social media, where content from the series has racked up 80 million views. The first two seasons highlighted the richness and diversity of African culture by profiling 63 artists. The third season presents 28 high-level Olympic and Paralympic athletes and champions, each of them represents the continent's hopes.

Inspired by the extraordinary pool of talent seen across the continent, Y'Africa celebrates the vitality and plurality of modern Africa and its people. The name of the program also reflects this connection, “Y'Africa” is the contraction of “Africa Ya lelo”, or “Africa today” in Lingala.

Breathtaking images, extraordinary stories

Season 3 of Y'Africa involved 18 months of filming in all corners of the world: South Africa, Algeria, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Spain, the US, Ethiopia, France, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, and Tunisia. Among our 28 athletes are 13 Olympic champions, world champions, or world record holders, including:

  • Tigst ASSEFA (Ethiopia), World Marathon Women's Record Holder
  • Hugues Fabrice ZANGO (Burkina Faso), 2023 Triple Jump World Champion
  • Cheick Sallah Junior CISSÉ (Ivory Coast), 2023 World Champion, gold medalist at the 2016 Rio Taekwondo Olympics
  • Tamirat TOLA (Ethiopia), 2022 World Marathon Champion
  • Amane BERISO SHANKULE (Ethiopia), 2023 World Marathon Champion
  • Amos KIPRUTO (Kenya), bronze medalist at the 2019 World Marathon Championships
  • Sabastian KIMARU SAWE (Kenya), 2023 Road Half Marathon World Champion
  • Khadija EL MARDI (Morocco), World Heavyweight Champion in Amateur Boxing 2023
  • Nicolas Pieter DU PREEZ (South Africa), gold medalist at the Beijing 2020 Paralympic Games in Road Cycling
  • Djamel SEDJATI (Algeria), 2022 World Vice-Champion in the 800 Meters
  • Kaylia NEMOUR (Algeria), 2023 Vice-World Champion, Uneven Bars
  • Soumaya BOUSAID (Tunisia), bronze medalist at the Beijing 2020 Para-JOs in the 1500 Meters T13
  • Oussama MELLOULI (Tunisia), gold medalist at the 2012 London Olympics in the 10 Kilometer Open Water

Y'Africa Season 3 covers 21 Olympic disciplines, from traditional favorites (such as athletics, swimming, boxing, gymnastics, fencing, and judo) to the most exciting new ones (including BMX, skateboarding, and surfing). As well as the acclaimed athletes profiled in the series, we also feature rising athletes, training for top-level international competitions through sheer rigor and commitment, despite having not yet won a title. Their journeys, their preparation, and their stories are worth hearing.

Season 3 was also the occasion for last summer's launch of the Y'Africa Facebook page (https://apo-opa.co/4d04OPE). With more than 350,000 followers to date, this exceptional communication platform will help us continue to promote African talent.

Jérôme Hénique, CEO of Orange Africa and Middle East: “Season 3 of Y'Africa marks a new stage in our commitment to highlighting the wealth and diversity of African talent. This series offers a unique platform to celebrate our ambitious and determined youth. I am delighted that the Orange Group is once again playing a key role in highlighting these inspiring stories.”

Caroline Guillaumin, Executive Director of Communications at Orange: “In this Olympic year, we have decided to highlight the sporting talents of the African continent. After two seasons dedicated to artists, Y'Africa returns with an exceptional series of portraits of athletes, women and men, champions, and their aspirations, all arranged around the theme of surpassing oneself. Through this program, launched in 2020, we want to share the dynamics of the African continent with as many people as possible. It is also another way of consolidating the Orange brand by establishing a sincere dialogue with audiences.”

Dan Assayag, Director: “I have admired the beauty, grace, agility, and power of athletes when they realize their full potential. I have understood why motivation is nothing without discipline. I have observed that top athletes have an above-average work capacity. I have also seen their tolerance of pain. I have understood that Olympic sport is a world of its own. And they made me understand, all in their own ways, what it meant to represent your country as an African. For all these reasons, Season 3 of Y'Africa is special for me.”

Discover the first episode of the new season: https://apo-opa.co/49KN1ci

Password: Y'africa

Additional information on Season 3 of Y'Africa is available on Orange.com

And here (https://apo-opa.co/3Jp4axr) you can find the biographies of the athletes, photos and a trailer, as well as the broadcast schedule for the program in the different countries.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Orange Middle East and Africa.

Press contacts:
Elodie Filopon
ef@35ouest.com
+225 07 89 031 724

Ibtissame Nafii
ibtissame.nafii@orange.com
+33 6 37 38 60 50

About Orange:
Orange is one of the main telecommunications companies in the world, with a turnover of 44.1 billion euros in 2023 and 137,000 employees as of December 31, 2023, including 73,000 in France. The group served 298 million customers on December 31, 2023, including 254 million mobile customers and 25 million fixed broadband customers. The group is present in 26 countries. Orange is also one of the world leaders in telecommunications services to multinational companies under the Orange Business brand. In February 2023, the group presented its Lead the Future strategic plan, built on a new business model, and guided by responsibility and efficiency. Lead the Future capitalizes on high-standard networks to strengthen Orange's leadership in quality of service.

Orange is listed on Euronext Paris (ORA) and on the New York Stock Exchange (ORAN).

For more information, see www.Orange.com, www.Orange-Business.com, and the Orange News app, or follow us on Twitter: @presseorange.

Orange and any Orange product or service mentioned in this press release are trademarks owned by Orange or Orange Brand Services Limited.

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Kenya’s Langat and Chepkorir secure victory at Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

Location: MyPR

Kenya’s Vincent Kibet Langat and Diana Chepkorir claimed top honors in the men’s and women’s races, respectively, at the 2nd annual Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K on Sunday, 7 April 2024. Langat boasted a winning time of 28:01 and Chepkorir 31:15. At the age of 37, veteran South African top runner Elroy Gelant is …

Read moreKenya’s Langat and Chepkorir secure victory at Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series secures sub-30-minute Diana Chepkorir to race GQEBERHA 10K

Location: MyPR

Following the remarkable achievements of the 2023 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, which included the victory of former 10km world record holder Yalemzerf Yehualaw (Ethiopia) in Durban, the event organizers are thrilled to announce another exciting addition to the 2024 lineup. Kenya’s Diana Chepkorir, a sub-30-minute 10km performer, will make her South African debut at …

Read moreAbsa RUN YOUR CITY Series secures sub-30-minute Diana Chepkorir to race GQEBERHA 10K