Latest news with #SADC
Newsweek
a day ago
- Business
- Newsweek
World's Largest Power Station Could Provide Energy for Half of US Homes
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The Grand Inga Hydropower Project is moving forward after years of delays in a bid to solve southern Africa's electricity and water scarcity. Delivery of the project, which would be the largest power station in the world if completed, was accelerated after officials convened in Zimbabwe on July 3. Newsweek contacted the organization responsible for the delivery, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), for more information on the progress via email. Why It Matters The Grand Inga Hydropower Project, with a potential capacity of up to 70 gigawatts, is designed as the centerpiece of Africa's Mission 300 initiative, which seeks to connect 300 million Africans to clean energy by 2030. The average household in the U.S. uses just under 11,000 kilowatt-hours a year, meaning that if Grand Inga reaches its projected scale, it could generate enough electricity to power nearly half of all homes in the U.S., though it will be used solely for homes in Africa. What To Know The Grand Inga Dam in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) would be a series of seven hydroelectric power stations at Inga Falls in the Congo River. SADC ministers responsible for energy and water agreed to push forward with the Grand Inga Hydropower Plan and the Congo River Water Transfer Concept at a meeting in Harare, Zimbabwe, on July 3. On June 3, the World Bank Board of Executive Directors approved a $250 million creditas the first phase of a previously announced $1 billion long-term commitment to support preparation and local development efforts for Inga 3, DRC's largest power project to date. The Inga electricity production site along the Congo River on December 16, 2013. The Inga electricity production site along the Congo River on December 16, 2013. Getty Images Constructed in the 1970s and 1980s, the Inga I and II provided a foundation, yet both function at about 80 percent capacity. Grand Inga, which would be the third structure at the site, has attracted multiple rounds of international interest, but progress has repeatedly stalled because of high costs, governance concerns and the withdrawal of major partners, such as China's state-owned Three Gorges Corporation. The projected $80 billion cost of completing the Grand Inga plan remains a huge barrier for the DRC, which is one of the world's poorest countries. South Africa, Nigeria, Guinea and Angola have expressed formal interest in purchasing power from Grand Inga, tying the project to transnational energy security. The Grand Inga initiative is part of the Mission 300 program, which aims to supply electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030. World Bank President Ajay Banga called the wider project "a crucial component" for economic growth and development across the continent and predicted that it could draw as much as $85 billion in private investment. What People Are Saying Bob Mabiala, head of the ADPI-DRC, told the World Bank on June 3: "The electricity generation potential at the Inga site is one of the largest in the world. The development of Inga 3's hydropower will be transformative for DRC. By increasing access to clean, renewable, and affordable energy for Congolese households and industries, it will serve as a motor for inclusive growth and jobs." Albert Zeufack, World Bank division director, in a press release on June 3: "By supporting DRC's vision for Inga through this program and complementary investments in governance, education, and infrastructure, the World Bank Group, together with partners, can significantly contribute to converting DRC's natural resources into economic growth, jobs, and human development for the Congolese people." What Happens Next SADC ministers are expected to present progress updates on the Grand Inga and Congo River Water Transfer initiatives at the next SADC Council of Ministers meeting in Madagascar, scheduled for August.
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Key industry support for C&I Energy + Storage Summit Zambia 2025
The C&I Energy + Storage Summit Zambia ( a landmark event for the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, is set to launch on 27-28 August 2025 at The Pamodzi Hotel in Lusaka. The C&I Energy + Storage Summit Zambia introduces a dynamic platform to tackle energy challenges and deliver sustainable solutions for Zambia's commercial and industrial (C&I) sectors. As part of the Power and Energy Portfolio of VUKA Group, a leading organiser of transformative industry events across Africa, this Summit will drive the SADC region's energy future. "The region has the potential to respond to the demand for sustainable energy. It is undisputable that the SADC region can do better. But what we lack in our region is collaboration", says Mr Makozo Chikote, Zambia Minister of Energy. Endorsements, Partners, and Sponsors The Summit is proudly endorsed by key industry associations and supported by a robust network of partners and sponsors committed to advancing Zambia's energy landscape. Zambia Ministry of Energy, Zambia Development Agency (ZDA), Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM), and the Pan African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PACCI) have partnered with the event, which underscores C&I Energy + Storage Summit Zambia's role in promoting policy advocacy, technology adoption, and investment in renewable energy. ZESCO is the proud host utility of the Summit, and they are joined by key sponsors such as Enerj, Hexing, WEG, and Vertiv. Advisory board comprising influential industry stakeholders Guiding the Summit's direction is a distinguished Advisory Board of industry experts and thought leaders who shape the programme to address pressing challenges in commercial and industrial energy security. Board members include: Ian Griffiths, Solar and Hydro Projects Developer Johnstone Chikwanda, Global Ambassador of Energy and Climate Change, Forum of African Traditional Authorities (FATA) Mbiko Banda, Electrical Engineer and Research Lead, Africa GreenCo Rodgers K. Muyangwa, Senior Manager Research and Pricing - Economic Regulation, Energy Regulation Board Rose Chikotola-Sichizya, Co-ordinator, Proudly Zambian Campaign Liana Braxton, Managing Director, Sosimple Energy Chimuka Nketani, Director: Investment, Zambia Development Agency Brian Tahinduka, Energy Head: Africa Regions, Standard Bank Their expertise ensures sessions are relevant, informative, and aligned with stakeholder needs. Confirmed speakers The Summit features speakers who bring real-world experience from across the energy value chain, including pioneers in embedded generation, PPAs, and Zambia's open-access framework. Notable speakers include: Billy Onyango, Renewable Energy Consultant, Kenya Power Chabuka Kawesha, Chairperson, Vice President (South Block), Pan African Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chikoma Kazunga, Head of Business Development and New Ventures, Africa GreenCo Helen Zulu, Country Director, ENGIE Energy Access Zambia These experts will share stories, challenges, and lessons learned to help attendees futureproof operations, secure financing, and scale clean energy solutions. Contact Babalwa Bungane for speaking opportunities at the Summit: Download the Programme ( Complimentary access for pre-qualified C&I project owners Designed for businesses grappling with unreliable utility power, load-shedding, price volatility, and operational pressures, the Hosted Buyer Programme connects participants directly with solution providers active in Zambia and the region, enabling peer-to-peer networking, insights from real-world implementations, and updates on regulatory changes, financing tools, and emerging technologies. Who Should Apply? Commercial and industrial companies Large energy users Energy project owners and buyers Enquire about the Hosted Buyer Programme here: Why Attend? This Summit is essential for businesses facing unreliable utility power and pursuing energy independence. Through masterclasses, case studies, and networking, participants will explore alternative energy and storage technologies to secure reliable energy, learn from early adopters about successful project execution, gain insights into regulatory frameworks and policy advocacy, mitigate financial and technical risks with expert advice, and build partnerships to accelerate project development. This event is critical for Zambia's C&I sectors, which depend on effective energy solutions. Key industries include retail, powering stores and supply chains consistently; manufacturing, ensuring stable energy for production; agriculture and agri-processing, supporting irrigation and processing; property development, enabling sustainable buildings; and energy-intensive users, stabilising operations for mining and industry. Join Us Seize this opportunity to elevate your energy strategy, engage with top providers, and shape the future of Zambia and the SADC region. Whether a sponsor, delegate, hosted buyer, or investor, the C&I Energy + Storage Summit Zambia offers unmatched value. Register for the event ( Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group. For sponsorship or hosted buyer enquiries, contact: Marcel du Toit About VUKA Group: As part of the Power and Energy Portfolio of VUKA Group ( this Summit aligns with VUKA's mission to connect industries, spark innovation, and fuel economic growth. VUKA Group is a premier organiser of conferences, exhibitions, and events across Africa, delivering tailored platforms for networking, knowledge sharing, and business development in energy and related sectors.
Zawya
4 days ago
- Health
- Zawya
South Africa: Resilient, equitable healthcare demands smart integration
Global health systems are in a period of profound disruption. From overburdened hospitals in Europe to strained clinics across Africa, the Covid-19 pandemic didn't just test our systems; it exposed deep-rooted flaws. But disruption can be clarifying. It forces us to ask: What kind of healthcare system can withstand future shocks while serving all people equitably and sustainably? This was the central theme at the 2025 International Federation of Health Plans (iFHP) CEO Forum in Singapore, where I had the honour of representing the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF). The answer, across regions and different healthcare models, was clear: resilience is built not in isolation, but through the integration of sectors, systems, ideas, and people. Good intentions do not guarantee good outcomes Nowhere is this lesson more critical than in South Africa and the broader Southern African Development Community (SADC), where health inequities are compounded by economic and infrastructural constraints. And yet, we stand at a policy crossroads. South Africa's National Health Insurance (NHI) Act is an ambitious attempt to equalise access to care. But good intentions do not guarantee good outcomes. The current design of the NHI risks creating a single-point-of-failure system by centralising funding and removing a viable role for medical schemes and private sector partners. Rather than building resilience, the NHI as it stands may undermine it by reducing patient choice, straining already fragile public services, and ignoring the fiscal realities of implementation. Without a clear, sustainable funding mechanism or operational readiness plan, the NHI threatens to replace existing strengths with uncertainty. Smart, strategic integration To be clear, equity cannot be achieved through exclusion. It must come from smart, strategic integration of public and private capacity, governed by accountability, and aligned to outcomes, not ideology. Importantly, resilient, equitable health systems are flexible, layered, and collaborative. This principle is already visible across SADC, where BHF members are helping pilot integrated care models that extend services to underserved communities, often in partnership with governments and civil society. Examples include: - Medical schemes offering low-cost benefit options tailored for lower-income workers. - Community-based risk pooling initiatives. - Partnerships with civil society, including the Gift of the Givers, to rehabilitate health infrastructure, restore water access in hospitals, and fund specialist training. These are not stopgaps. They represent a different way of thinking where the private sector is not merely tolerated in the pursuit of universal health coverage (UHC) but is strategically engaged to close systemic gaps. Too often, reforms focus on mechanisms rather than outcomes. But the real test of any health system is this: Can it deliver timely, quality care where and when it's needed? Resilience begins with frontline functionality, including adequate staff, reliable infrastructure, clean water, and access to diagnostics and medicines. Partnerships that address the social determinants of health, from infrastructure to education and water security, are key. These factors drive long-term health outcomes more than policy documents alone. Innovate from insurer to innovator Medical schemes have a critical role to play in these partnerships. In the 21st century, the medical scheme sector must evolve from insurer to innovator. It must deliver not only coverage but impact. Critical to achieving this is the government creating platforms for structured collaboration, including: - Health outcomes-based contracts. - Incentives for infrastructure investment and training. - Data-sharing frameworks that protect privacy while driving integration. - Co-governance models for regional health preparedness. Such mechanisms don't dilute the state's control over the public health sector, but rather enhance it by making it more effective, better resourced, and more accountable to real-world outcomes. At the iFHP CEO Forum, it was clear that Africa has something vital to offer the world. In countries like Rwanda, Namibia, and Kenya, hybrid models are already delivering UHC-aligned services through strategic public-private partnerships. These are the stories that must shape global health thinking, not just stories of aid, but of agency and innovation. South Africa, and Africa more broadly, does not need a revolution in healthcare. It needs a reconfiguration of what already works, and a clear-eyed recognition of what doesn't. That means reforming without dismantling. Innovating without alienating. Expanding access without eroding quality. We can't afford to chase ideals at the expense of functionality. Resilience must be engineered through cooperation, not confrontation. And the private sector, if wisely regulated and ethically engaged, can be a powerful force for equitable, sustainable health. In this new era, resilience is not about returning to what was. It's about designing what's next with all hands on deck.
IOL News
4 days ago
- Politics
- IOL News
Trending: Dangerous Trump rejects heading our way
Donald Trump is dumping the worst of the worst in our neighbour. How long before these violent criminals, who neither the US or their countries of origin will allow, cross the border into South Africa? There is a fear that violent criminals – illegal immigrants in the US, which is now deporting them to eSwatini as they their home countries have refused to take them back – will cross over in Mzansi and join the ranks of criminals here at home: @Oriana_RSA Basically, the US is treating eSwatini as its dustbin for criminals? The worst part is that these criminals will obviously end up in South Africa. We're doomed @AdvFanele I work near the eSwatini border and a good 30%- 40% of our resources go towards eSwatini citizens, but we foot the bill by paying insane amounts in tax. While I'm an advocate of free healthcare for all, I think billing the countries of origin for the immigrants would lessen the burden on the locals. @_sethuzuma The US dropping off immigrants in eSwatini is frustrating, because they're most likely going to relocate to the nearest economic hub for opportunities. @motsohi_thabang South Africa must now decisively intervene to control wild and irresponsible decisions by this mad despot (King Mswati) in eSwatini. @_tume1o Not to be dramatic, but this is a security issue for SA. It doesn't look like there's any guarantee that they will remain in eSwatini. @Wealth98478302 So, should we allow lawlessness from Lesotho, Botswana or eSwatini just because we might be relatives?! @KennedyWandera_ 'These criminal illegal aliens are so uniquely barbaric that their home countries refused to take them back,' a US Department of Homeland Security spokesperson says. The Trump administration has also sent migrants to El Salvador and South Sudan. @Cecilia_Mthwane As a SADC region, we need an urgent meeting with eSwatini. They need to tell us if they are on Nyaope or something. Labantu badinga iNduku straight. @Sello_Libram eSwatini cannot stop its own citizens from crossing illegally into South Africa, but is now accepting illegal Nigerians, Zimbabweans, Muslims, etc that America is illegals are being sent to eSwatini so that they can later cross into SA. @mztvar As a citizen of eSwatini, this is one of the reasons why I will teach the younger generation to despise US foreign policy with every last drop of their blood. Why should a first world-state, with all the instruments to deal with crime, send hardcore criminals to a third-world state? @TheSituationZA WTF! So, eSwatini is a dump will be crossing over to SA. @Truthonothing While South Africans are caught up with 'mabahambe', a new issue is emerging – get ready to receive more illegal immigrants, courtesy of the Trump administration. Meanwhile, African media remains disturbingly silent. @SegopotjeNkadi3 eSwatini govt is so smart! They accepted violent foreign criminals from Cuba Somalia, Yemen, Venezuela, Vietnam so they can get financial aid from Trump but they won't host them for long – they will secretly dump them at the border at night, then they will come to SA. @SS_Mogashoa The disrespect to eSwatini! The disrespect to Southern Africa! The disrespect to Africa! @RediTlhabi You know what this means akere? Hardened criminals, (rapists, paedophiles, murderers, robbers) unwanted by the USA and their home countries, being dumped in eSwatini, will end up in one place.... @MotsaZakhele What the hell is this? eSwatini government is a mess. This is really bad. Extremely bad. Deporting convicted criminals to us is appalling. Extremely appalling. DAILY NEWS
IOL News
10-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Defence Minister Angie Motshekga commits to modernising SANDF despite budget constraints
Minister of Defence and Veterans Angie Motshekga says South Africa must build a 'capable, ethical, and developmental state' through a modern, resilient, and combat-ready defence force, even amid tight fiscal conditions. Presenting her Budget Vote speech for the 2025/26 financial year, Minister Motshekga told Parliament that the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) remains committed to safeguarding national sovereignty and contributing to peace and stability in the region. Acknowledging the constraints, she said: "In spite of our ongoing financial constraints, which badly affect our planning and operations, we will continue to reprioritise and do more with the little that we have received or which is at our disposal,' Motshekga said. Motshekga confirmed that all 2,250 SANDF troops deployed under Operation Tiber in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have returned home. 'Since the announcement of Summit DRC base withdrawal by our regional body SADC, all 2,250 members are back home,' she said. Motshekga expressed gratitude to neighbouring countries, stating, "I want to take this opportunity to thank the Government of Rwanda for allowing us a safe passage through their territory into Tanzania, and further wish to thank the Governments of Tanzania, Malawi, and the parties involved in the safe withdrawal of our members." The Department of Defence has been allocated R57.103 billion for 2025/26. Of this, R36 billion (64%) is for compensation of employees. Key allocations include: R2.7 billion for accommodation and municipal services; R2.5 billion for peacekeeping operations; R1.4 billion for transfers to AMSCO; R487 million for SADC contributions; R480 million for repair and maintenance; R300 million for emergency and day-to-day maintenance; and R200 million for border security vehicles and tech. Only R12 billion remains for all other operations.
