Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025: Namibia's Petroleum Commissioner to Highlight Energy Investment Potential
Namibia has solidified its status as a premier frontier market, with a string of high-impact discoveries in the Orange Basin driving global investor interest. Galp's Mopane series of light oil finds – estimated to hold at least 10 billion barrels – alongside TotalEnergies' Venus and Shell's Graff discoveries, have positioned the basin among the most prospective in the world. Rhino Resources announced a discovery with its Capricornus-1X well in April 2025, following confirmation of a hydrocarbon reservoir with the Sagittarius-1X well in February. First oil from the Venus field – estimated to hold over five billion barrels of in-place resources – is targeted by 2030, with efforts underway to accelerate the development timeline.
IAE 2025 (https://apo-opa.co/4k8B5a6) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 14-15, 2025 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.
Beyond the Orange Basin, Commissioner Shino will spotlight exploration activity in other emerging basins, including Chevron's acquisition of an 80% operating stake in Blocks 2112B and 2212A in the Walvis Basin, underpinned by extensive seismic coverage. In the onshore Kavango Basin, ReconAfrica is advancing its 2024 drilling campaign targeting an estimated 3.4 billion barrels of recoverable oil in the Damara Fold Belt, with preparations currently underway to spud a second exploration well. Namibia's recently implemented open-door licensing system further enhances the investment climate, offering streamlined access to upstream opportunities and flexible entry points for new and existing players.
'Namibia continues to command international attention as a frontier leader in upstream development. Commissioner Shino's insights into new licensing, acreage availability and basin activity at IAE 2025 offer investors a rare opportunity to engage directly with the driving force behind Namibia's energy boom,' says Sandra Jeque, Event&Project Director, Energy Capital&Power.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital&Power.
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Emirates 24/7
21 minutes ago
- Emirates 24/7
DIFC records best ever performance for the first half of a year
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading global financial centre in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA), today announced its best-ever performance for the first half of a year, reinforcing its pivotal role in driving the future of finance and contributing to the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. In the first six months of 2025, DIFC saw a record number of new firms establishing operations in the Centre, bringing the total number of active registered companies to 7,700, up from 6,153 in H1 2024 - a 25% year-on-year increase. 1,081 new active registered companies joined DIFC between January and June 2025, a 32% increase on the same period in 2024. The number of professionals working in DIFC rose to 47,901, marking a significant 9% increase from 43,787 a year earlier. His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, and President of DIFC said: 'The unprecedented results that DIFC continues to achieve across all fronts are a direct reflection of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai - a vision focused on positioning Dubai at the forefront of the world's most advanced financial centres. Dubai has entered a new and greater phase of growth, and these results highlight the competitiveness, attractiveness, and global confidence it enjoys. We firmly believe the future holds even more opportunities, and we will continue to strengthen DIFC's capabilities and its ecosystems that foster innovation, agility, and business growth.' A global leader in financial services Driven by DIFC's strategic initiatives and unmatched scale in the region across all sectors, Dubai has been categorised as one of only eight cities globally to possess 'broad and deep' capabilities across all parts of the finance industry in the Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI), standing alongside cities like London, New York, and Paris. Dubai is currently the sole centre in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia to be listed among the top GFCI ranked financial cities globally in several sectors: FinTech (5th), professional services (6th), investment management (8th), infrastructure (9th) and business environment (10th). DIFC continues to advance its position as the region's largest regulated financial services ecosystem. A total of 980 entities are now regulated by the DFSA, the independent regulator for business undertaken from or within DIFC, up 17% year-on-year from 2024. Total Financial services authorisations grew 28% year-on-year, reaching 78 in H1 2025 compared to 61 in H1 2024. DIFC's banking and capital markets cluster is unrivalled in the region, and growth aligns with the demand for broad and deep financial services capabilities to support the region's economic development aspirations. A total of 289 companies operate in this sector, up from 247 a year ago, a substantial 17% growth rate. Dubai is home to the highest concentration of private wealth in any Middle Eastern city, according to Henley & Partners. This has supported growth in DIFC's wealth and asset management cluster, which is the biggest in the region. The number of firms in the sector increased to 440, up from 370 in H1 2024, growing 19% year-on-year. The Centre is now home to more than 85 hedge funds, soaring 72% over the last 12 months and includes 69 billion-dollar funds. Over 10,000 funds are being managed or marketed from DIFC. DIFC's approach to supporting family businesses, including providing access to alternative investments through its wealth and asset management clients, and structures to support growth, continues to ensure the Centre is their preferred location. The number of entities associated with family businesses operating in DIFC has risen to 1,035, up from 600 a year ago, marking a 73% increase. The number of foundations in DIFC have accelerated to 842, up from 548 in H1 2024, a 54% year-on-year increase. The insurance and reinsurance sector also experienced robust growth, with 135 related firms now operating in the ecosystem, increasing 8% from 125 in H1 2024. During the first half of 2025, it was announced that Gross written premiums reached USD 3.5bn for 2024, compared to USD 2.6bn a year earlier – a significant 35% increase. New entrants to DIFC's expanding client base during H1 2025 include ABK Capital, Avaloq, Baron Capital, Bluecrest Capital, Bridge Investment Group, Cambridge Associates, China International Capital Corporation, dLocal, Manulife, National Bank of Kuwait, Pearl Diver Capital, PIMCO, RV Capital, Silver Point Capital, Tourmaline, TransAmerica Life Bermuda, Welwing Capital Management and many others. H.E. Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC said: 'DIFC remains the driving force behind Dubai's economic growth, as a key enabler of the financial services sector's expansion and diversification. Our consistent performance across all key sectors and rising global standing are evidence of our commitment to supporting innovation, attracting global capital, and reinforcing Dubai's status as one of the world's most competitive and diversified economies.' Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority commented: 'In the first half of 2025, DIFC has exceeded expectations across every metric. Our strong performance demonstrates the power of our ecosystem, the scale of our platform, and the depth of expertise we bring to the industry. We remain committed to transforming the future of finance from Dubai and advancing our position as the region's number one global financial centre.' A global leader in AI, FinTech and innovation DIFC's innovation ecosystem continued to attract a growing number of technology-led firms. The number of FinTech and Innovation companies reached 1,388, up from 1,081 in H1 2024 a surge of 28%, securing Dubai's position a one of the world's top five hubs for FinTech in the latest Global Financial Centres Index. During H1 2025, this contributed to an overall 28% growth in total active non-financial entities, increasing to 6,335, up from 4,935 a year earlier. The Centre's flagship events, the Dubai AI Festival and Dubai FinTech Summit, collectively attracted over 20,000 participants from 120+ countries. During these events and in support of DIFC's innovation agenda, the Dubai AI Academy was launched, and Dubai Future Finance Week was announced. Being held in May 2026, the week will bring together six major events, including the FinTech Summit, Future Sustainability Forum, and the Dubai Future District Fund AGM. Having launched Ignyte at the end of 2024, a growth platform targeting 100,000 founders, start-ups, and investors subscribers have already redeemed benefits exceeding AED 182mn. This reflects Ignyte's real economic benefit and demonstrates how the platform is an enabler for growth. A global hub for talent Supporting the objectives of Dubai's Education Strategy 2033 and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, the DIFC Academy has become a preferred choice for world-class universities. Amongst DIFC's partners, renowned universities including American University of Cairo, ESCP Business School, ESSEC Business School, Georgetown University, London Business School, Pantheon Assas University and SKEMA Business School offer 12 masters degree programmes. Through 32 active partners, 46,103 learners have completed programmes at the DIFC Academy since inception, including 4,947 during H1 2025 – the highest ever number in a six month period. To drive long-term impact, DIFC has launched the '1 Million Learners' initiative with the support of 30 founding partners, under the Sustainable Finance Catalyst, which aims to equip one million individuals with sustainability knowledge by 2030. The initiative builds on the demand for sustainability related training at the DIFC Academy which has delivered 6,075 hours of related learning in H1 2025, taking the total programming to 22,241 hours from 42 courses. A global leader in legislation, regulation and governance DIFC's legal and regulatory frameworks continued to evolve to keep pace with global developments. DIFC's legal framework features bespoke, best-in-class legislation, developed from leading international sources and standards to most effectively meet the needs of an international financial centre. This is complemented by a robust system of DIFC common law, with its substantial body of developed jurisprudence. This combination delivers an optimal balance of legal certainty, commercial flexibility, and judicial sophistication - positioning DIFC as the jurisdiction of choice for businesses across the region and globally. During the first half of 2025, the Centre proposed to enact new Variable Capital Company Regulations. The proposed regulations seek to significantly enhance investment structuring and asset management options for proprietary investment in DIFC. Additionally, legal updates were proposed through the DIFC Laws Amendment Law, including refinements to the Law of Security, Insolvency Law and Employment Law, ensuring alignment with international standards. In a milestone achievement underscoring Dubai's growing influence in global governance, DIFC was selected to host the upcoming Global Privacy Assembly 2026, the premier global forum for data protection and privacy authorities. A global leader in real estate and urban development DIFC's real estate portfolio continues to support Dubai's urban development ambitions. Inventory that was provided to the market for the recently launched DIFC Heights, sold out in three days, underscoring strong demand for premium living in the financial district. Over 1.6mn sq. ft. of commercial space is currently under development and construction being accelerated to meet demand. The new space will be ready for occupancy starting from Q1 next year. DIFC also launched a new data platform enabling third-party access to real estate information, aligning with the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033.

Emirates 24/7
an hour ago
- Emirates 24/7
Saeed Al Tayer Inaugurates the Regional Green Economy Forum 2025
HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Chairman of the World Green Economy Organization (WGEO), delivered the opening keynote at the first edition of the Regional Green Economy Forum (RGEF) 2025 on carbon neutral cities, held under the theme 'Empowering African Cities: Paving the Path to Carbon Neutrality' in Tangier, Morocco, under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, King of Morocco. In his keynote address, HE Al Tayer said: ' I would like to express our sincere thanks and profound gratitude to His Majesty, King Mohammed VI, King of Morocco, who honoured the Forum with his High Patronage, embodying through his enlightened vision the pioneering role of the Kingdom of Morocco in leading the global transition towards a sustainable green economy that achieves prosperity and well-being for the people of the Earth and for future generations. It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to this Forum. I extend my sincere appreciation to the host country, the Kingdom of Morocco, and the vibrant city of Tangier for their steadfast commitment to sustainable development and climate action.' The opening ceremony featured speeches by HE Leila Benali, Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Kingdom of Morocco; HE Omar Moro, President of the Council of Tangier Tetouan Al-Hoceima Region (CRTTA);HE Younes Tazi, Wali of the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima Region, Governor of the Tangier- Tetouan-Al Hoceima; Jean Pierre Elong Mbassi, Secretary General of United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG-AFRICA); HE Nathalie Fustier, Resident Coordinator, United Nations, Kingdom of Morocco; James Grabert, Director, Mitigation Division, UNFCCC; and HE Mounir Laymouri, Mayor of Tangier, and President of the Moroccan Association of Presidents of Municipal Councils. The forum, hosted over two days, welcomed high-level participation from ministers, mayors, youth leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts from across Africa and the globe to explore practical and sustainable pathways to achieve carbon neutrality in African cities. HE Al Tayer highlighted the lead of the United Arab Emirates in championing international cooperation on climate action: 'The UAE leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has emphasised the utmost importance of global collaboration to address climate challenges. He also expressed appreciation to the event's strategic partners—the Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development of Morocco, the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima Regional Council, and United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG-Africa)—for their valuable partnership in advancing sustainable urban development across the continent. HE Al Tayer emphasised that this year's forum comes at a critical moment, stating: 'Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it is a present reality. African cities are on the frontlines, confronting rising temperatures, water scarcity, and environmental degradation. However, within this challenge lies an extraordinary opportunity. Cities are not only vulnerable; they are vital engines of positive transformation.' HE noted that through the Global Alliance on Green Economy (GAGE), which unites over 90 countries, WGEO has created a dynamic platform for inclusive, green, and resilient growth, with Africa serving as a cornerstone of this alliance. In collaboration with UCLG-Africa, WGEO's Cities Carbon Neutral Initiative aims to empower African cities to lead the transition toward low-carbon, climate-resilient urban environments. 'This forum is more than a milestone—it is a springboard for action,' he added. HE Al Tayer outlined the forum's collective mission, which includes equipping local governments with the tools and resources needed to plan, finance, and implement sustainable solutions; promoting African leadership in renewable energy, smart mobility, green buildings, and circular economy practices; fostering collaboration between governments, the private sector, academia, youth, and civil society; and mobilising innovation to transform carbon neutrality from aspiration into implementation. He further emphasised that the forum aligns with the UAE Consensus outcomes of COP28 and the outcomes of COP29 and plays a pivotal role in shaping the World Green Economy Summit 2025, to be held in Dubai, UAE, this October. The forum will directly contribute to shaping Africa's urban roadmap on the global climate agenda. HE Al Tayer reaffirmed WGEO's commitment to inclusive dialogue: 'We are determined to ensure that every city, region, and voice is involved in shaping our shared future. Our theme calls for transcending conventional approaches and building equitable, sustainable cities by enhancing local capacities to design bankable green projects; scaling successful models in solar energy, sustainable mobility, and waste-to-energy; fostering inclusive public-private partnerships; engaging youth and communities to ensure bottom-up transformation; and building a network of African cities and global partners committed to climate justice and shared prosperity.' In conclusion, HE Al Tayer called on participants to work together over the two-day forum alongside ministers, mayors, entrepreneurs, youth, and urban development experts to co-create ideas and solutions that will shape the cities of tomorrow. 'Let us seize this opportunity to move from discussion to real action,' he concluded. 'Let this forum be remembered not only for its dialogue, but also for the partnerships it fostered and the impactful solutions it launched across the African continent,' HE concluded. HE Leila Benali emphasised that the accession of the Kingdom of Morocco to the Global Alliance for Green Economy (GAGE) in November 2023 reflects its strategic commitment to a fair, inclusive, and sustainable development model. She also acknowledged the pioneering role of the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima Regional Council and the United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG-Africa) in advancing the sustainability agenda at the local level. Benali stressed that transitioning to a green economy is no longer a developmental option, but also a necessary and strategic imperative to address the growing climate and developmental challenges facing the continent. She reaffirmed the commitment to implementing and updating the National Strategy for Sustainable Development in line with its New Development Model and international agreements, with the goal of building a green, inclusive economy by 2035. Benali called for greater exchange of knowledge and best practices among African cities as a boost for innovation and carbon neutrality. She emphasised that, despite its challenges, Africa has all the necessary assets to become a global hub for climate solutions—thanks to its abundant natural resources, human capital, visionary leadership, and ambitious youth. HE Omar Moro, President of the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima Regional Council, affirmed that the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region, as a strategic bridge between Africa and Europe, aspires to lead by example in green transformation by promoting investment in renewable energy and enhancing environmental awareness. He also announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with WGEO, marking the beginning of a robust partnership focused on green urban development and innovative climate finance. He concluded by reiterating the Council's full commitment to implementing the forum's outcomes and contributing to practical, action-oriented initiatives that help build greener, fairer, and more resilient cities. As part of the Forum, Al Tayer opened the proceedings of the High-Level African Mayors' Roundtable on: Advancing Carbon Neutral Cities in Africa. In his opening address, he affirmed WGEO commitment to supporting African cities in their transition towards a green economy through the "Carbon Neutral Cities Initiative" launched in Dubai, UAE. 'From Tangier to Cairo, let us amplify a powerful message: African cities are not just facing the climate crisis; they are leading the solutions,' he concluded. In his welcome remarks at the Youth Roundtable, held as part of the Forum activities under the theme 'Mentoring the Future – Nurturing Young Leaders for a Sustainable World,' HE Al Tayer emphasised the central role of the youth and that youth leaders are active partners today, not tomorrow. HE welcomed young leaders as vital contributors, stressing that their ideas and energies are central to the transition toward a green economy. He warned of the consequences of unbalanced growth, manifested in climate change and biodiversity loss. He clarified that the green economy requires a fundamental transformation in thinking and lifestyles, relying on the courage and leadership of youth.


Zawya
an hour ago
- Zawya
Egypt calls for greater private sector role, debt swaps at G20 meeting
Egypt participated in the drafting and launch of the G20 Development Working Group Ministerial Declaration in South Africa, which called for enhancing domestic resource mobilisation and innovative financing mechanisms to address global challenges. The declaration, issued at the conclusion of the ministerial meeting, affirmed that development financing is a core priority and highlighted the urgent need to address illicit financial flows and strengthen the role of multilateral financing. Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, Rania Al-Mashat, represented Egypt at the meeting. In her remarks, Al-Mashat highlighted the need to expand blended finance, public-private partnerships, and debt-for-development swap programmes, pointing to Egypt's experience with Italy, Germany, and China as a successful and replicable model. She stressed the importance of allowing the private sector to play an effective role in development financing, improving the governance of international financial institutions, and strengthening the United Nations' role in global economic structuring. She also called for updating the basis for calculating Debt Sustainability Analysis (DSA) to ensure a fairer assessment for developing countries. Between 2020 and May 2025, Egypt mobilised approximately $15.6bn for private sector financing from international partners, with $4bn allocated to the private sector within the 'NWFE' country platform, the ministry said. Al-Mashat also noted Egypt's experience in launching the 'Country Approaches for Financing Sustainable Development and Climate Action' initiative, which it co-leads with South Africa and various U.N. and international bodies. The initiative aims for 100 countries to implement integrated financing programmes funded by public, private, and philanthropic sources by 2030. 'We look forward to translating the outcomes of the development ministers' meeting into effective practices and tangible policy progress to ensure a more sustainable future for all countries,' Al-Mashat said. The G20 reaffirmed its commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its pledge to confront global challenges from debt to climate change and the SDG financing gap, which stands at an estimated $4.5 trillion annually. Egypt has been a recurring guest nation at the G20 since 2016. South Africa, which holds the G20 presidency until November 2025, has invited Egypt to participate in working groups and ministerial meetings for the duration of its tenure.