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Fresh Produce From Namibia: Level the Uneven Playing Field Harming SA Farmers

Location: News

Farmers on the southern bank of the Orange River in the Vioolsdrif area risk their fresh produce spoiling in storage if the issue of uncompetitive imports from Namibia is not addressed soon. Namibia’s prescribed minimum wage for farm workers is lower than South Africa’s. In addition, the state is leasing land to large agricultural enterprises […]

The post Fresh produce from Namibia: Uneven playing field harming SA farmers should be levelled appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.

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TotalEnergies to Drill in 2026, Regulatory Reform Gains Momentum

Location: News
African Energy Chamber

TotalEnergies is preparing to begin offshore drilling in South Africa in 2026, pending final regulatory approvals, according to Mike Sangster, the company's SVP for Africa Exploration & Production. Speaking at the Invest in African Energy Forum in Paris, Sangster emphasized the company's ambition to expand its multi-energy strategy on the continent, with South Africa poised to play a central role in that vision.

The announcement coincides with significant legislative developments in South Africa's oil and gas sector. In April, the government published the draft regulations for the Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Act, inviting public comment and signaling a renewed commitment to reform. The regulations will outline the procedures for implementing the Act – approved in November but not yet in effect – ushering in a more modern, investor-oriented framework for hydrocarbon exploration and production.

Establishing a Fit-for-Purpose Framework

For years, the lack of a clear and sector-specific legal framework has impeded South Africa's ability to attract sustained exploration activity and unlock its offshore potential. The Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Act aims to rectify this by establishing transparent licensing systems, defining state and Black Economic Empowerment participation and clarifying production-sharing mechanisms.

Crucially, the Act seeks to create an enabling environment that balances investor interests with national development goals. It provides detailed guidance on the application and granting of exploration and production rights, introduces more predictable fiscal terms and offers mechanisms to manage environmental and social responsibilities. By aligning South Africa's regulatory framework with international best practices, the government is positioning the country to compete more effectively for operator capital, particularly as global exploration budgets become more selective and carbon-conscious.

Igniting Interest in the Orange Basin

South Africa's offshore acreage, particularly in the Orange Basin, has been gaining momentum on the back of transformational discoveries in neighboring Namibia. Within South African waters, the Brulpadda and Luiperd finds in Block 11B/12B remain the most commercially significant to date, estimated to hold more than 600 million barrels of oil equivalent. While TotalEnergies has since exited the block, citing internal portfolio shifts, the company's re-engagement with the broader South African market suggests continued belief in the basin's long-term potential.

Last August, TotalEnergies officially became operator of offshore exploration Block 3B/4B, positioned southeast and on trend with neighboring oil discoveries, including the company's Venus discovery in Namibia. The Orange Basin represents one of the last untapped frontiers capable of delivering large-scale oil and gas volumes. With a more supportive regulatory backdrop taking shape, South Africa is well-positioned to attract the kind of deepwater investment needed to de-risk its acreage and build out its domestic gas infrastructure — a critical step toward energy security and industrial growth.

Positioning South Africa for Investment at AEW 2025

As the government works to implement the Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Act, African Energy Week (AEW) 2025: Invest in African Energies in Cape Town offers a high-profile platform to promote the country's renewed upstream vision. AEW is expected to convene regulators, IOCs and service companies to discuss the commercial implications of the legislative overhaul and chart a path forward for exploration and development in South Africa.

“For companies like TotalEnergies – whose multi-energy strategy includes natural gas, renewables and decarbonized operations – a stable and transparent regulatory framework is key. Sangster's statement reflects growing confidence in South Africa's policy direction, and signals to the broader investor community that the country is preparing to welcome a new wave of responsible, large-scale investment,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

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

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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

Location: News
African Leadership Magazine

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

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

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

To cast your vote, visit:

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

The 2025 African Business Leadership Awards (BLA Nominee Highlights

African Business Leader of the Year

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

African Female Business Leader of the Year

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

African Regulator of the Year

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

Business-Friendly Governor of the Year

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

African Finance Minister of the Year

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

Trade & Investment Promotion Agency of the Year

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

Central Bank Governor of the Year

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

Trade & Investment Minister of the Year

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

African CEO of the Year

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

Young Business Leader of the Year

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

Africa CSR & Community Development Impact Award

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

African Brand of the Year

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

African Company of the Year

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

Industry Personality of the Year

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

Africa Business Integrity Leader Award

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

African Tech & Digital Economy Leader of the Year

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

Lifetime Achievement Award

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

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Leadership Magazine.

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

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

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TotalEnergies’ Mike Sangster Talks Multi-Energy Strategy at IAE 2025

Location: Business
Energy Capital & Power

Mike Sangster, Senior Vice President for Africa at TotalEnergies, outlined the company's multi-energy strategy in Africa at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 Forum in Paris. Speaking during a one-on-one conversation with America Hernandez, Energy Correspondent at Reuters, Sangster said that the company is committed to producing more energy in a sustainable manner.

In the oil sector, TotalEnergies continues to invest in established markets such as the Republic of Congo and Angola as well as in emerging markets such as Namibia, Uganda and South Africa. According to Sangster, TotalEnergies' African portfolio constitutes half of the company's operated production globally. “The largest part of our exploration budget is also in Africa,” he said.

In South Africa, the company hopes to start drilling in 2026. The company is currently awaiting the requisite permits. In Namibia, the company is spearheading efforts to produce first oil by 2029 through its Venus project. A field development plan is currently underway, with plans to make a final investment decision by Q4, 2026. Given the complexity of the deepwater project, Venus will target oil production.

“The site is extremely remote, 300 km offshore and at a depth of 1,900 m,” Sangster said, highlighting that much of the associated gas discovered would need to be reinjected.

Monetizing Africa's natural gas resources through LNG deployment and flare reduction represents a core part of TotalEnergies' African strategy. “Part of our growth target is focused on LNG,” Sangster stated, adding that “we finished routine flaring in Nigeria, Gabon and Angola. In the Republic of Congo, we will eliminate flaring this year.”

In Nigeria, TotalEnergies is ramping up gas investments to support both local energy needs and exports. “It's important to monetize gas and its reservoirs,” Sangster noted. “In Nigeria, there are significant reserves and we are actively developing this sector. There are high-quality fields that can also serve export markets.”

Beyond oil and gas investments, TotalEnergies' broader energy strategy includes the development of renewable energy projects. Sangster reiterated TotalEnergies' rebranding from an oil major to a multi-energy company, stating that “It makes sense to expand integrated energy activities. We have invested in renewables, green hydrogen and even mining in Africa. The future of our industry is integrated energy combined with new technologies to meet growing demand sustainably.”  

Meanwhile, TotalEnergies is committed to supporting capacity building across the markets in which it operates. Sangster explained that through projects such as Tilenga, TotalEnergies “has generated around 20,000 direct jobs in Uganda and Tanzania. We are also training 200 local people. These are high-paying jobs that will be there for the next 20 years.”

In Nigeria, TotalEnergies works closely with local educational institutions to transfer skills and enhance capacity building. “In Nigeria, we have the Petroleum Institute, and we're fully committed to developing [capacity] in the country,” Sangster said. These initiatives not only support the development of projects, but create tangible opportunities for local communities. 

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

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FIND Convenes African Union Ambassadors

Location: News
FIND

As part of its continuing outreach to the parts of the world that it was set up to serve, FIND  (www.FINDdx.org) hosted Ambassadors from 26 African countries and the African Union for a meeting at FIND's offices in the Global Health Campus in Geneva. The Ambassadors received an overview of FIND's work in their respective countries, future prospects and were made aware of FIND as a value-added partner for countries with respect to diagnostics.

“The foundation of any successful health response is diagnosis. From early detection to pandemic preparedness, our collaboration with the African Union is essential to guaranteeing that no one is left behind,” said Dr. Ifedayo Adetifa, CEO of FIND. “FIND's  vision is focused on both catalyzing innovation and ensuring access to diagnostics in low- and middle-income countries.”

In order to improve diagnostic systems and get ready for potential health and pandemic risks, FIND's leadership presented its updated strategic vision as a precursor to this year's Diagnostics Day event to be held on 21 May, which will take place on the sidelines of the World Health Assembly.

The ambassadors of the African Union, Angola, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Sao Tomé and Principe, Sierra Leone, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, The Gambia, Togo, and Zimbabwe were present.

The Ambassadors led a lively discussion which touched upon a number of key issues, including South-South collaboration; pandemic preparedness and response; the role of health in national development; national essential diagnostics lists; the growing issue of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes; and ensuring sustainable financing for diagnostics and health in general.

Among the meeting's main conclusions were:

  • Commitment to strengthen regional manufacturing of diagnostics and other health technologies.
  • Consensus on increased AU-FIND cooperation to country and Africa CDC's diagnostic priorities.
  • Support for FIND's function as a technical partner to expand access to vital diagnostics for illnesses like HIV, TB, malaria, mpox and emerging outbreaks.
  • Diagnostics acknowledged as a key component of health security and universal health coverage.

“In this moment of dramatic change, African leaders are stepping up to fill the power vacuum left by a world in turmoil where women and children are being left behind and left to die, particularly on the African continent – the continent with the greatest health burden,” said Dr Ayoade Alakija, FIND's Board Chair. “FIND will continue to support them on strengthening pandemic preparedness and ensuring quality diagnostics are available to all.”

FIND's Diagostics Day (https://apo-opa.co/44AX9pc) event on 21 May at the Vieux Bois in Geneva will bring leaders from health from around the world to agree on next steps to ensuring quality and accessible diagnostics for all.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of FIND.

Media contacts:
Beatrice Bernescut
Director, Communications
media@finddx.org

About FIND:
FIND accelerates equitable access to reliable diagnosis around the world. We are working to close critical testing gaps that leave people at risk from preventable and treatable illnesses, enable effective disease surveillance, and build sustainable, resilient health systems. In partnership with countries, WHO and other global health agencies, we are driving progress towards global health security and universal health coverage. We are a WHO Collaborating Centre for Laboratory Strengthening and Diagnostic Technology Evaluation. For more information, please visit www.FINDdx.org.

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Rebuilding Botswana’s Construction Future: African Development Bank Bolsters Lobatse Clay Works Revival

Location: Business
African Development Bank Group (AfDB)

The kilns are firing again—and with them, the economic hopes of a community. In the quiet town of Lobatse, southern Botswana, a decades-old industrial landmark is undergoing a remarkable renaissance. Lobatse Clay Works (LCW), a brick manufacturer that was once the cornerstone of Botswana's construction industry, has been resurrected owing to a strategic investment from the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org). The financing has transformed not only the company but an entire community.

“The buildings that shaped modern Botswana will rise again from our clay," declares Anthony Moepeng, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Lobatse Clay Works.

Founded in 1992 as a joint venture between Botswana Development Corporation (BDC) and American firm Inter-Kiln, Lobatse Clay Works quickly established itself as the nation's premier maker of bricks. For decades, its distinctive reddish-brown bricks were synonymous with Botswana's construction boom, during which schools, hospitals, and government buildings all showcased the company's craftsmanship.

But in 2017 the company faced a perfect storm of challenges. Aging equipment, production inefficiencies, and rising fuel costs forced the shuttering of the once-thriving operation, leaving the factory idled -- stripping the community of both jobs and identity.

African Development Bank's Catalytic Investment Powers Revival

Recognizing Lobatse Clay Works' potential, the African Development Bank provided a loan facility, in partnership with the Botswana Development Corporation to turn around the company's fortunes, focusing on technological modernization and operational efficiency.

The Bank's investment enabled Lobatse Clay Works to acquire state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment that dramatically improved energy efficiency. A new hybrid fuel system slashed production costs, while enhanced kiln technology boosted output capacity and product quality.

In 2023, the company, facing supply chain challenges and rising costs, secured an additional 48 million Pula (around $3.5 million) from the African Development Bank — bringing the total financing to 138 million Pula— to keep growth on track.

This substantial investment enabled the plant to reopen in 2024.

Beyond Bricks: Building Communities and Futures

The revitalized facility has already created 148 direct jobs with hundreds more expected in supporting industries from transportation to services.

The plant's output of three million bricks per month is high enough to meet domestic construction demand and serve lucrative export markets in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, generating valuable foreign exchange for Botswana's economy.

African Development Bank's Deputy Director General for Southern Africa, Moono Mupotola, stressed the broader significance of the investment. "This speaks directly to what we do at the African Development Bank. Lobatse is a small town, but almost one hundred percent of the factory workers are from the town. This project delivers on our High 5 development priority of improving the quality of life for Africans."

Most significantly, Lobatse Clay Works's revival aligns perfectly with Botswana's industrial diversification goal to reduce dependence on diamond revenues by strengthening manufacturing capability.

"Through the African Development Bank funding, we have been able to commit BWP 4 million towards the refurbishment of the plant," explains Benedicta Abosi, Acting Managing Director at BDC. "This has enabled us to restart operations and produce enough bricks for expansion opportunities into the region."

The company plans to expand from brick manufacturing to include tiles, further cementing its role in Botswana's construction renaissance and economic diversification efforts.

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

Photos: https://apo-opa.co/453yTvZ

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

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AEW 2025, Spanish Chamber of Commerce in South Africa Join Forces to Foster Energy Partnerships

Location: Business
African Energy Chamber

The Spanish Chamber of Commerce in South Africa has partnered with the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference to foster collaboration between Spanish and South African energy companies. The partnership builds on dual goals of driving investment and development in South Africa and will support greater participation by Spanish firms at this year's edition of the conference – scheduled for September 29 to October 3.

As a non-profit entity whose main objective is the promotion of commercial, economic and industrial relations between Spain and South Africa, the Chamber of Commerce seeks to strengthen business prosperity and trade between the two nations. At the heart of this strategy is the energy industry, with the Chamber committing to exposing its members to emerging opportunities in both Spain and South Africa. At AEW: Invest in African Energies, the Chamber will play an instrumental part in strengthening energy relations and trade, supporting market entry by Spanish firms into South Africa.

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

The opportunities for heightened collaboration between Spain and South Africa are extensive. While Spain is a net-importer of oil and gas, Spanish oil and gas firms have seen great success abroad, highlighting the level of expertise the country has to offer. Spanish companies such as multinational energy and petrochemical firm Repsol already have a strong presence in Africa, offering significant expertise that could help unlock South Africa's energy industry. The company has been active in Algeria since 1973, recently receiving approval to invest up to €731 million in oil and gas blocks in the country. The Chamber has also been active in Libya since the 1970s and is implementing an ambitious exploration agenda in the country. It plans to drill nine wells consecutively via two drilling rigs by November 2025, and aims to increase production to 350,000 barrels per day (bpd) in the country. As of December 2024, production stood at 300,000 bpd.

Meanwhile, for South Africa, which is only just starting to realize the full potential of its oil and gas market, Spanish partnerships could propel a hydrocarbon evolution. Despite being a frontier market, South Africa has proven oil and gas discoveries and significant upside potential. The Luiperd and Brulpadda discoveries, for example, are the largest discoveries of natural gas resources in South Africa to date. Situated in the Outeniqua Basin, operator Africa Oil Corp plans to conduct surveys within the Block 11B/12B area to determine a development plan. Additionally, South Africa's Orange Basin – shared with Namibia where several high-impact finds have been made – offers strategic opportunities for billion-barrel finds. International companies have recently expanded their footprint in the basin, led by firms such as Eco Atlantic, TotalEnergies and QatarEnergy.

In the green energy sector, Spain is spearheading Europe's energy transition through rapid developments in green hydrogen. According to the World Economic Forum, the country already accounts for 20% of green hydrogen projects announced in the European Union, with plans to create industrial clusters expected to bolster the bloc's clean energy adoption. South Africa is also targeting ambitious green hydrogen projects. The government introduced a R300 billion investment pipeline in 2023, targeting between 6 and 13 million tons of green hydrogen and derivatives production per annum by 2050. Up to 19 projects were identified for accelerated development and global support will be key to bring these projects into fruition. In 2023, Spain committed $2.3 billion to help fund South Africa's energy transition, but further support could unlock greater value from the country's renewable energy industry.

“Global partnerships are fundamental for countries seeking to rapidly grow their oil, gas and renewable energy industries. Spain and South Africa have significant potential to expand their trade, energy and business ties, and the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in South Africa works hard to achieve mutual development goals,” states Tomás Gerbasio, VP Commercial and Strategic Engagement, African Energy Chamber. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Africa’s Solar Boom: How to Reap the Benefits

Location: Business
CBI-electric: low voltage

With 2.5 gigawatts-peak (GWp) (http://apo-opa.co/4iQtUCp) of solar capacity added across Africa in 2024 and 194.34 GWp expected in 2025, the continent is fast becoming a global hotspot for solar energy growth. Leading this shift are the commercial and industrial (C&I) sectors, where photovoltaic (PV) systems are being installed on-site at businesses, educational institutions, and government facilities to meet their own energy demands.

Dr Andrew Dickson, engineering executive at CBi-electric: low voltage (www.CBi-lowvoltage.co.za), explains that multiple factors are accelerating the continent's switch to solar. “Energy poverty remains a major issue across Africa, with reliable grid electricity reaching only 14% (http://apo-opa.co/4jICofV) of Zimbabweans, for example.”

He adds that unreliable power supply is another key driver. “Persistent nationwide blackouts are affecting countries like Botswana (http://apo-opa.co/3EZvQKM), disrupting day-to-day operations. And in hydro-electric dependent countries such as Zambia (http://apo-opa.co/3RRqvrX), climate change is reducing water levels, leading to lower electricity generation and higher prices.”

Dr Dickson points out that in countries like Namibia which are dependent on electricity imports, affordability is a growing concern, with N$8.8 billion (http://apo-opa.co/3EZvSlS) expected to be spent between January 2024 and December 2025. “As a result, Namibia now has the highest (http://apo-opa.co/3EZvSSU) electricity prices in Southern Africa. Yet it has a unique geographic advantage: its solar PV systems can produce twice (http://apo-opa.co/3EZvSSU) as much electricity as comparable systems in central Europe.”

Some African nations are proactively investing in solar to reduce their grid dependence. “Malawi is rolling out its National Compact for Energy (http://apo-opa.co/3GMlxKC), which creates a competitive framework for private-sector investment in off-grid solar through grants, subsidies, and credit lines that improve access to foreign exchange,” he notes.

Safeguarding solar investments

The shift to solar is also being driven by cost-effectiveness. Dr Dickson shares that on-site solar is now cheaper (http://apo-opa.co/3YDs1BD) than the electricity tariffs paid by C&I clients in at least seven sub-Saharan markets.

Pointing to research by GreenCape (http://apo-opa.co/3Z6UyzC), which found that solar PV can reduce business energy costs by 15%, with a return on investment reached within three to 12 years, he highlights that after that, businesses can benefit from up to 15 years of free electricity.

However, Dr Dickson stresses that unlocking these savings requires protecting system components from damage and disruption. “Voltage spikes caused by lightning or grid instability can seriously damage inverters and batteries. Installing surge protection devices (SPDs) is critical, not just to prevent damage, but also to avoid voiding manufacturer warranties.”

Arcing is another serious threat. “When electrical currents jump across gaps, the heat generated can damage components or even start fires,” he explains. “DC circuit breakers designed specifically for solar systems are essential for mitigating this risk. They're built to handle the direct current generated by PV panels, ensuring safer and more reliable operation.”

Smart tech enables smarter solar use

In addition to physical protection, Dr Dickson advises businesses to embrace smart energy management tools to extend system life and optimise performance. “A smart power indicator can detect grid interruptions and send immediate alerts, helping businesses respond quickly. These systems can temporarily disconnect non-essential high-energy devices during an outage to prevent overload and preserve battery life. At the same time, they ensure that essential systems like security and lighting continue operating during downtime.”

Optimising solar ROI in 2025

He believes that the key to unlocking solar's full potential lies in strategic system design and management. “By combining surge protection, DC breakers, and monitoring tools, businesses can reduce unexpected costs, minimise downtime, and extend the life of their investment.”

“As Africa's solar energy market continues to expand in 2025, organisations have an opportunity to capitalise on its long-term benefits. With the right technologies and safeguards in place, solar is not only a clean energy solution it's a strategic asset that pays off,” concludes Dr Dickson.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CBI-electric: low voltage.

About CBi-electric: low voltage:

  • Established in 1949, CBi-electric: low voltage is a manufacturer and supplier of quality low voltage electrical distribution, protection, and control equipment. Previously known as Circuit Breaker Industries or CBI, the company specialises in the design, development, and manufacturing of circuit breakers, residential current devices, surge protection, wiring accessories, and metering products.
  • Headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa, the company is a subsidiary of renowned JSE listed industrial group Reunert (http://apo-opa.co/4iV5abY), established in 1888, with international operations across Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and USA.
  • CBi-electric: low voltage can be found in almost every home and has firmly become a market leader over the last 75 years while supplying products to authorities, utilities, manufacturers, commercial property developers, industrial, mining, telecommunications, and general power distribution applications.
  • In 2021, the brand launched its smart IoT (internet-of-things) home automation range, called the Astute Range.
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Africa Energies Summit in London Must Prioritize Hiring Black Africans

Location: Business
African Energy Chamber

In the evolving and competitive energy landscape of Africa, the Frontier and Africa Energies Summit in London holds a critical position, drawing substantial revenue from the continent's thriving markets. However, there is a glaring issue that the organization cannot afford to ignore: the lack of Black Africans in its workforce. This absence raises serious concerns about the company's commitment to diversity and inclusion, and it's time for Africa Energies Summit to address this inequality. The African Energy Chamber (https://EnergyChamber.org) has issued a direct call for action, urging the summit to rectify this imbalance by hiring Black Africans.

It is deeply disappointing that, despite reaping significant benefits from Africa's economic contributions, Frontier and Africa Energies Summit in London has failed to reflect the continent's rich diversity by hiring Black employees. The company continues to prioritize personal networks in its hiring practices, which perpetuates exclusionary systems. As a result, many highly qualified Black Africans, with the necessary skills and experience, are left outside the company's inner circle.

This issue becomes even more perplexing when we consider that Black Africans are not merely passive participants in the success of the Africa Energies Summit; they are active sponsors and contributors to its events and programs. This contradiction calls into question the sincerity of the company's commitment to inclusivity and raises concerns about the integrity of its diversity policies.

NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, has highlighted the remarkable progress of the Oil and Gas industry in promoting Africans, especially women, into leadership positions. He praises the industry for fostering entrepreneurship and providing opportunities for Africans to rise to the top. This success serves as a stark reminder that Africans, especially African women, are not only capable but essential to the success of organizations operating within the continent.

The African Energy Chamber believes firmly that Black Africans possess the expertise, leadership qualities, and vision required for positions at the highest levels within the Africa Energies Summit. Inclusion is not just a matter of social justice—it is a strategic necessity for a company that depends heavily on Africa's energy market for its revenue. It is time for Frontier and Africa Energies Summit in London to move beyond lip service and show real, meaningful commitment to diversity by empowering Africans within its workforce.

The issue at hand goes beyond tokenism; it speaks to the very principles of fairness and equal opportunity. The idea that Africans can contribute to the financial success of the company through large exhibitions, yet are denied equal representation within the organization, is both unacceptable and unsustainable. The time to act is now, and this imbalance must be addressed without delay.

While it may be uncomfortable to raise these concerns, the African Energy Chamber is committed to shining a light on uncomfortable truths within the industry. The progress made in the Oil and Gas sector—particularly in the hiring, training, and promotion of Africans—demonstrates that genuine diversity efforts lead to entrepreneurial success and organizational growth. The African Energy Chamber urges Africa Energies Summit in London to adopt similar practices and take lessons from the success stories in the Oil and Gas industry.

Countries such as South Africa, Nigeria, Angola, Gambia, Sierra Leone, Kenya, Ghana, Namibia, and Tanzania—along with others that actively support the summit and participate in its events—deserve to see their talent represented at the highest levels of the organization. Africa Energies Summit must step up and ensure that the diversity it benefits from in its African markets is reflected in the diversity of its workforce.

"Frontier makes a huge part of its revenue from Africa, yet no Black people are hired within the company. They hire people they know, trust, and like, but we are not part of that circle. I am deeply disappointed. Black Africans are major participants and sponsors of their programs. I believe we are more than capable of doing the job, but there has been no true commitment to hiring or promoting us. We also need to have a serious conversation about why Africa Energies Summit in London isn't hosted in Africa," said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.

The African Energy Chamber calls on Africa Energies Summit in London to recognize the urgent need to address the underrepresentation of Black Africans in leadership roles within its organization. This is a critical opportunity for the summit to prove its commitment to true diversity and inclusivity by embracing the talents, skills, and potential of Africa's brightest minds.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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