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Redefining Africa-Europe Relations: How Academic Institutions are Powering Innovation

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Academic Institutions

African and European energy partnerships are transcending project development, with academic institutions taking on a proactive role in supporting capacity building across the continent

TRIPOLI, Libya, January 4, 2024/APO Group/ — 

With substantial resources, attractive regulations and growing demand on a regional level, Africa is on the precipice of transformation within the field of energy. Investment is increasing across the value chain following new hydrocarbon discoveries and project launches and as African governments are prioritizing local content and the inclusion of the domestic workforce. While this opens up new opportunities for skills and technology transfer from global partners, it has also brought into question the role that academic institutions and governments play in supporting capacity building in Africa’s energy sector.

Redefining the Africa-EU Partnership

To unlock the full potential of the sector, capacity building deserves newfound focus in Africa. Despite being home to both the youngest and fastest-growing population globally, the continent faces education gaps and low participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), leading to an overreliance on foreign personnel in energy projects. Brookings Institute (https://apo-opa.co/48l625m) estimates that less than 25% of students in sub-Saharan Africa pursue STEM-related career fields. To support national local content agendas, therefore, Africa’s relations with global partners needs to move beyond project development to incorporate collaboration, skills transfer and partnerships within STEM education.

Historically, relations between Africa and Europe have largely centered on development, aid and economic interests, with little to no focus placed on research, innovation or the strengthening of institutional foundations. As relations evolve, a window of opportunity has emerged for both African and European academic institutions to bolster capacity building from the ground-up. From partnering on curriculum development, to promoting training programs, workshops and exchanges, to advocating for mentorships, industry partnerships and inclusion, academic institutions can lay the foundation for a strong and capable workforce.

More than supporting local content in Africa, partnerships with Europe will be integral for the modernization of Africa’s energy industry. The energy transition, rising demand and industry fluctuations require increased research and innovation to ensure that the world is equipped to provide the “energy of the future.” Africa is not exempt in this regard, and research and development will form the basis of the continent’s energy transformation. 

Africa’s relations with global partners needs to move beyond project development to incorporate collaboration, skills transfer and partnerships within STEM education

Supporting Capacity Building on a National Level

The European Union (EU) has demonstrated its commitment to supporting education in Africa. Under the EU-Africa Strategy (https://apo-opa.co/48Ixsld) – initially launched in 2007 and revised in 2022 – the bloc is promoting partnerships in education, skills, research and innovation across the continent, specifically within emerging fields such as digitalization and green energy. Through the support of the EU and this strategy, several collaborations have taken effect. Following a series of meetings in 2022, the African Research Universities Alliance and The Guild of European Research-Intensive Universities launched 20 joint Clusters of Research Excellence (CoRE) (https://apo-opa.co/3NPdnBQ), initiated with the support of the African Union and EU. The CoRE aims to enhance research and higher education, serving as catalysts for innovation in African energy.

African nations are also eager to capitalize on foreign expertise. On the sidelines of the Invest in African Energy (IAE) forum in Paris in 2023, the foundations were laid for increased collaboration between Namibia and French tertiary institutions Sciences Po. Namibia’s Minister of Energy and Mines Tom Alweendo held a meeting (https://apo-opa.co/3tF6SL1) with representatives from the institutions to advance academic cooperation across the energy sector. Parties agreed to explore new avenues for capacity building by signing a formal partnership on student exchange and training.

Cross-Institutional Support

More and more, African and European academic institutions are collaborating to support skills and technology development within energy-related fields. The German Academic Exchange Service (https://apo-opa.co/3NPjeqJ) offers scholarships and funding for African students pursuing energy-related studies, partnering with South Africa’s University of Cape Town – among other African institutions – to support STEM-related education. The United Kingdom’s Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan; the French Development Agency; Erasmus & Horizon Europe, and many more, also offer funding and academic support for students in energy.

Platforms such as the Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2024 forum aim to further promote collaboration in education. Beyond connecting project developers and investors, the forum serves as a unique platform for both African and European academic institutions to engage on both a bilateral and multilateral level. The forum delves into the opportunities and challenges across Africa’s evolving energy sector, examining the strategic role of Europe in new project development and shifting supply-demand dynamics. Building on discussions held and agreements signed at the 2023 forum, the 2024 edition, WHICH IS ORGANIZED BY Energy Capital & Power, offers newfound opportunities for Africa and Europe to both examine and redefine their global partnership.

Register here (https://Invest-Africa-Energy.com/) for IAE 2024. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with industry leaders, policymakers, and investors. Taking place in Paris, the event will be held from May 14-15.

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

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What to Expect at Angola Oil & Gas 2025

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As Angola marks 50 years of independence, Angola Oil & Gas returns in 2025 with an expanded multi-track program, a larger exhibition space, a dedicated deal room and a pre-conference technical agenda

LUANDA, Angola, April 2, 2025/APO Group/ –With a $60 billion upstream investment pipeline, a 2025 licensing round and restructured block opportunities, Angola is positioning itself as the premier destination for upstream investors. Meanwhile, new downstream projects are opening up financing opportunities for technology and capital providers. Against this backdrop, the Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference and exhibition returns for its sixth edition from September 3-4 in Luanda, bringing together industry leaders to explore investment opportunities, forge collaborations and drive Angola’s oil and gas sector forward. Here is what to expect from this year’s edition:

Celebrating 50 Years of Angola

Taking place on the eve of Angola’s 50th anniversary of independence, AOG 2025 will celebrate five decades of growth in the country’s oil and gas sector. By reflecting on past successes, challenges and lessons learned, the event will not only highlight Angola’s profitability and potential, but also lay the groundwork for future investment and development.

Multi-Track Agenda

AOG 2025 offers a dynamic multi-track agenda designed to cater to all segments of the oil and gas value chain. Topics range from upstream exploration and production, to downstream refinery and petrochemical advancements, to regulatory and policy frameworks, and more. Keynote presentations and panel discussions will also provide insights into Angola’s latest licensing round and emerging opportunities in the oil and gas sector.

Pre-Conference Program

Leading up to the main event, AOG 2025 introduces an expanded pre-conference program, including specialized technical workshops and training sessions led by global energy experts. Designed for engineers, geologists, project managers and energy financiers, these sessions will explore cutting-edge advancements in drilling technologies, reservoir management, digital transformation and sustainable energy practices. To take part in the pre-conference program, contact sales@energycapitalpower.com

Dedicated Deal Room

A centerpiece of AOG 2025 is the exclusive Deal Room, designed as a high-impact ‘Dragon’s Den’-style platform where companies, service providers, SMEs and technology firms can showcase their solutions to investors, project developers and government representatives. This setup fosters direct engagement, driving collaboration and deal-making.

Expanded Exhibition

AOG 2025 will feature an expanded exhibition space, spotlighting the latest technologies, services and innovations shaping the oil and gas industry. Exhibitors will gain access to unparalleled brand exposure, senior decision-makers, high-value networking and targeted lead generation. The exhibition serves as a vital platform for companies looking to increase visibility and forge new business relationships.

Networking Prospects

As Angola’s largest oil and gas industry event, AOG 2025 welcomes the participation of over 2,500 attendees from 40 countries and 450 organizations. The event unites the entire oil and gas value chain, connecting upstream exploration and production to downstream infrastructure and services to finance, policy and technology. Delegates will have the unique opportunity to strengthen cross-sector collaboration and grow their brand in one of Africa’s most exciting oil and gas markets.

Secure Your Place at AOG 2025

Don’t miss the chance to engage with one of Africa’s largest oil and gas markets. Join the AOG 2025 conference today and be a part of the discussion on turning Angola’s oil and gas industry into a fuel for long-term, sustainable economic development. AOG 2025 offers a range of participating opportunities, including sponsorships, exhibition, speaking slots and delegation prospects. Visit www.AngolaOilandGas.com for more information.

AOG is the largest oil and gas event in Angola. Taking place with the full support of the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas; the National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency; the Petroleum Derivatives Regulatory Institute; national oil company Sonangol; and the African Energy Chamber; the event is a platform to sign deals and advance Angola’s oil and gas industry. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

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

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Equinix Strengthens Commitment to Nigeria’s Digital Economy with New LG2.3 Data Center Expansion

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Equinix remains steadfast in its mission to enable secure, scalable, and sustainable digital growth for economies across the world

LAGOS, Nigeria, April 2, 2025/APO Group/ –Equinix, Inc. (Nasdaq: EQIX) (www.Equinix.com), the world’s digital infrastructure company™, has officially opened its latest data center expansion in Lagos. Called LG2.3, the facility will support Nigeria’s growing digital transformation efforts, providing state-of-the-art colocation and secure interconnection solutions which will empower businesses across the region.  It also signifies Equinix’s unwavering dedication to advancing Nigeria’s position in the global digital economy, reinforcing the company’s commitment to the region.

As part of the inauguration, Bruce Owen, President of EMEA at Equinix, along with other Equinix executives, led the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the newly expanded site. In addition to an official visit to the Governor of Lagos State, Equinix hosted an exclusive customer engagement event, bringing together key customers and partners from Nigeria’s business and technology sectors. Attendees discussed shared successes and Equinix’s role in facilitating digital transformation, while also connecting directly with Bruce Owen for insights into how Equinix’s solutions drive innovation and business agility in the region.

Clear demonstration of our continued commitments to invest and grow digital infrastructure that will benefit the many thousands of businesses

Equinix executives also took part in a tree-planting ceremony, symbolising Equinix’s continued investment in sustainable initiatives across the globe and highlighting the company’s broader goal of reducing its carbon footprint while supporting greener practices across its operations worldwide.

Speaking about the expansion, Bruce Owen, President of EMEA at Equinix said “Nigeria is a crucial market for Equinix. Today’s opening is a clear demonstration of our continued commitments to invest and grow digital infrastructure that will benefit the many thousands of businesses in Nigeria and on the continent as a whole. I am deeply encouraged by the enthusiastic partnerships and innovations emerging from this dynamic region, which continue to inspire our commitment to Nigeria’s digital and sustainable future.”

Adding to this, Wole Abu, Managing Director of Equinix West Africa, highlighted the critical role of data centers in driving economic growth stating “Data centers continue to play a pivotal role in driving economic development in Nigeria, serving as critical infrastructure that supports digital transformation and economic growth. As governments and enterprises increasingly acknowledge their significance, global demand for data center capacity is poised to rise. While Africa’s demand for data solutions is still evolving compared to more mature markets, the continent is demonstrating strong potential for digital adoption and innovation. To meet this growing need, Equinix is actively advancing three major data center projects in Nigeria, with future expansion plans for Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and South Africa.”

Equinix remains steadfast in its mission to enable secure, scalable, and sustainable digital growth for economies across the world.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Equinix.

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Angolan Government Launches Tender for Concession of Passenger and Cargo Terminals in the Ports of Cabinda and Soyo

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Within 40 working days after the publication of the public tender notice in Jornal de Angola, investors interested in developing and optimizing the operation of these public assets can submit their proposals

LUANDA, Angola, April 1, 2025/APO Group/ —The Government of Angola launched this Wednesday, in Soyo, Zaire province, the Public Tender for the Concession of the Operation of Port Services in the Maritime Passenger and Cargo Terminals of the Port of Cabinda and in the River Passenger and Cargo Terminals of the Port of Soyo. This strategic initiative aims to strengthen regional logistics, improve mobility and boost the country’s economic growth.  

The process initiated today arises within the scope of Presidential Order No. 210/23, of August 29, which authorizes the opening of the tender for the award of concession contracts for the management, operation and maintenance of these terminals, for a period of 20 years.

Within 40 working days after the publication of the public tender notice in Jornal de Angola, investors interested in developing and optimizing the operation of these public assets can submit their proposals, in accordance with the requirements and factors set out in the documents of the procedure defined by the Ministry of Transport.

Connected to Luanda and ports in neighboring countries, Cabinda and Soyo are central hubs in maritime and river trade in the northern region, linking cities, populations and companies from different sectors, including oil.

In addition to the development of the cabotage sector in Northern Angola, the management of the concession will allow the creation of jobs, the improvement of freight and passenger transport logistics, and a better use of existing resources, ensuring a more competitive and sustainable operation, in line with efficiency and sustainability policies in the transport sector. in Angola.

The launching ceremony of the Tender for the Concession of the Passenger and Cargo Terminals of the Ports of Cabinda and Soyo was chaired by the Secretary of State for Civil Aviation, Maritime and Port Sectors, Rui Carreira.

More information about the competitors and proposals is available on the website https://www.Mintrans-Tenders.ao

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Transport of Angola

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