Connect with us

Business

Africa Data Centres announces that it will start construction on a new facility in Accra, Ghana

Published

on

Africa Data Centres

The new facility will be built on a part of the former Trade Fair showgrounds site, one of the key central locations in the city

ACCRA, Ghana, May 18, 2023/APO Group/ — 

Africa Data Centres (www.AfricaDataCentres.com), the largest network of interconnected, carrier-and cloud-neutral data centre facilities on the continent, announces that it will shortly start construction on its newly acquired land in the Central Business District of Accra, Ghana. The new facility has been designed for an initial 10 MW, which can expand to 30MW depending on demand. It will be the largest facility in West Africa todate, outside of Nigeria.

Data centres are the foundation of digitally led economic growth around the world; developing sustainable and self-sufficient ICT ecosystems is impossible without them. The new facility will be built on a part of the former Trade Fair showgrounds site, one of the key central locations in the city. The first phase is scheduled to be completed within 12 months.

This new facility is part of Africa Data Centres’ continental expansion plans spanning 10 of Africa’s major economic hubs, including South Africa, Zambia, Kenya, Rwanda, Egypt, Morocco, Senegal, Ivory Coast, and Angola. This unrivalled expansion, partly funded by the United States government’s U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), is a significant initiative to accelerate private sector-led digital infrastructure and services in Africa.

The establishment of Africa Data Centre’s new 10MW data centre, in the heart of Accra, is a significant step towards bridging the infrastructure gap

“We continue to bring internationally recognised services and products through Liquid Intelligent Technologies and Africa Data Centres. Liquid already has the largest cross-border fibre network in Africa, and our data centres footprint expansion compliments this, enabling faster digital transformation on the continent,” says Hardy Pemhiwa, Group CEO for Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

Mr. Scott Nathan, CEO of the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC)said, “DFC is proud to support African Data Centres. This new facility in Accra will be an investment in critical infrastructure helping to better link the rapidly growing African population and market to global opportunities. DFC’s commitment to strengthen ICT Infrastructure in West Africa is in keeping with the commitments President Biden made to mobilize private capital for the kind of high quality global infrastructure investments that improve peoples’ lives. This new data centre will help accomplish that in Ghana and for the region, creating jobs by improving existing business conditions while at the same time attracting data-dependent companies looking to invest and expand their operations.”

The US Government’s Senior Advisor Mr. Amos Hochstein said, “This investment exemplifies the U.S. Government’s commitment under the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII) to unlock public and private capital for sustainable infrastructure investment. Alongside the data centres in South Africa and Kenya, the Ghana data centre is laying the groundwork for a digital revolution on the continent.

Welcoming the new investment, Hon. Nana Akufo-Addo, The President of Ghana said, “The establishment of Africa Data Centre’s new 10MW data centre, in the heart of Accra, is a significant step towards bridging the infrastructure gap, and developing further our digital economy. This investment and the Government’s drive at digitising all sectors of the economy will enable us increase our capacity to access digital services, and help even more to attract foreign direct investment into our economy.”

“Our new data centre in Ghana is a significant step towards Africa Data Centres’ goal of narrowing the digital divide in the West Africa region. Hyper-scale data centres, preferred by major US tech companies, multinational corporations, banks and other local enterprises, are the speciality of Africa Data Centres. Additionally, our data centres are supported with independent solar and battery storage power, enabling us to bring digital technologies whilst mitigating our environmental impact,” concluded Tesh Durvasula, CEO of Africa Data Centres.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Data Centres.

Business

TAAG Angola Airlines Takes Delivery of its First Boeing 787 Dreamliner

Published

on

TAAG Angola Airlines

The 787-9 and subsequent deliveries of the fuel-efficient widebody jet will advance the airline’s fleet modernization plans and long-haul capabilities, bringing more travelers and trade to Angol

LUANDA, Angola, January 31, 2025/APO Group/ —

  • African airline receives first of four 787 Dreamliner airplanes on order
  • 787 Dreamliner to expand TAAG Angola Airlines’ network in Europe and open new opportunities in Asia and North America

Boeing [NYSE: BA] (www.Boeing.com) delivered the first of four 787 Dreamliner airplanes to TAAG Angola Airlines, debuting the airline’s new livery. The 787-9 and subsequent deliveries of the fuel-efficient widebody jet will advance the airline’s fleet modernization plans and long-haul capabilities, bringing more travelers and trade to Angola with the industry’s most advanced commercial airplane.

The airline’s first 787 Dreamliner, which is on lease from AerCap, arrived in Luanda just ahead of Angola’s Liberation Day on February 4, marking nearly 50 years since the delivery of TAAG Angola’s first airplane, a Boeing 737-200.

“The delivery of the 787-9 is a pivotal step in our strategy to modernize TAAG Angola Airlines’ fleet,” said Nelson Pedro Rodrigues de Oliveira, CEO of TAAG Angola Airlines. “This airplane brings the efficiency and versatility we need to meet growing market demands, replace our aging widebody fleet, and deliver a world-class experience to our passengers.”

This airplane brings the efficiency and versatility we need to meet growing market demands, replace our aging widebody fleet, and deliver a world-class experience to our passengers

TAAG Angola Airlines currently operates five 777-300ER (Extended Range) airplanes, three 777-200ERs, and seven Next-Generation 737s, connecting Angola to 12 destinations across Africa, Europe, South America and China. The introduction of the 787 Dreamliner will enable the carrier to expand its long-haul network, with plans to launch new routes to Europe and explore opportunities in Asia and North America.

“The 787 Dreamliner will complement TAAG Angola Airlines’ fleet of Boeing 737 and 777 jets, as we continue to support the airline in its mission to connect people and places across the globe,” said Anbessie Yitbarek, vice president of Boeing Commercial Sales for Africa. “Our 50-year relationship with TAAG Angola Airlines has been built on trust and shared goals, and we look forward to many more years of successful collaboration and innovation together.”

The 787 Dreamliner, which TAAG Angola Airlines ordered in 2023 (https://apo-opa.co/4hEsiLC), is a core part of the operator’s modernization efforts. Recognized for its advanced technologies, fuel efficiency, and exceptional passenger experience, the 787 Dreamliner reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 25% compared to the airplanes it will replace.

Coinciding with the delivery of TAAG Angola Airlines’ first 787 Dreamliner, the airline is working with Boeing to purchase CO2 emissions reduction associated with blended Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) through an accounting process called book-and-claim. Distributors will deliver the blended SAF made available through these purchased certificates to nearby airports for use by airlines and other carriers.

Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook projects Africa will need 1,170 airplanes over the next two decades. Boeing airplanes have formed the backbone of Africa’s commercial fleet for over 75 years. More than 60 airlines operate around 500 Boeing airplanes throughout Africa, which represents nearly 70% of the airplane market across the continent.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Boeing.

Continue Reading

Business

Forging Sustainable Partnerships in Africa’s Mining Sector: A High-Level Reception for Global Industry Leaders

Published

on

Mining

Key areas of focus will include the role of policy stability in driving investor confidence, the impact of ESG compliance on financing and operations, and the growing importance of local beneficiation and value addition

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, January 31, 2025/APO Group/ — 

As Africa’s mining industry navigates an era of transformation, CLG (www.CLGGlobal.com) will host an exclusive gathering of global investors, government representatives, legal experts, and energy industry leaders on Wednesday, 5 February 2025, to explore pathways for sustainable partnerships that drive long-term value creation.

Under the theme “African Mining Investors and Government: Forging Sustainable Partnerships,” the reception will serve as a premier platform for dialogue on the evolving regulatory environment, investment climate, and critical policy frameworks shaping the future of mining in Africa. With the continent’s vast mineral wealth presenting unparalleled opportunities, the ability to strike a balance between investment attractiveness, sustainability, and equitable resource governance remains at the forefront of industry discussions.

Key areas of focus will include the role of policy stability in driving investor confidence, the impact of ESG compliance on financing and operations, and the growing importance of local beneficiation and value addition. As governments refine their regulatory approaches to enhance sector transparency and long-term growth, legal expertise plays an increasingly vital role in ensuring that agreements, policies, and partnerships are structured for resilience and mutual benefit.

With global demand for critical minerals on the rise, Africa’s ability to position itself as a reliable and competitive supplier will depend on well-structured partnerships between public and private sector stakeholders. The event will highlight innovative approaches to cross-border collaboration, risk mitigation in mining investments, and strategies for ensuring resource nationalism policies align with sustainable economic development.

At CLG, we are committed to shaping the conversations that drive responsible and transformative mining investments on the continent

Bringing together high-profile decision-makers from across the global mining value chain, this reception will provide unparalleled networking opportunities, facilitating meaningful engagement on how best to harness Africa’s mineral wealth for long-term prosperity.

Zion Adeoye, Chief Executive Officer at CLG, emphasized the importance of robust legal frameworks in fostering investor confidence and ensuring mutually beneficial partnerships.

“Africa’s mining sector is entering a crucial phase where collaboration between investors and governments must be guided by well-defined legal and policy structures. Sustainable resource development requires not just capital investment, but strategic alignment between regulatory certainty, environmental stewardship, and local economic growth. At CLG, we are committed to shaping the conversations that drive responsible and transformative mining investments on the continent.”

Oneyka Cindy Ojogbo, a Partner at CLG, underscored the firm’s commitment to bridging the gap between legal innovation and industry growth.

“As the mining industry evolves, the need for strategic legal and regulatory guidance has never been greater. Investors and governments alike must adopt proactive legal frameworks that not only mitigate risk but also foster innovation and long-term sustainability. CLG is at the forefront of these discussions, ensuring that mining agreements, policies, and partnerships are structured to create lasting value for all stakeholders.”

Hosted by CLG, this reception underscores the firm’s leadership in navigating the legal, financial, and regulatory complexities of Africa’s mining sector. As a trusted advisor to investors, governments, and industry stakeholders, CLG remains committed to fostering strategic conversations that drive sustainable development and long-term economic success in the industry.

To be part of this high-level Reception, confirm your attendance by registering here: https://apo-opa.co/40KJQPE

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CLG.

Continue Reading

Business

Driving Africa’s Open Skies: Aircraft Manufacturers, Catalysts for Progress (By Henok Teferra Shawl)

Published

on

Henok Teferra Shawl

Significant progress has already been achieved; 37 African countries, representing over 80% of the continent’s aviation market, have joined the SAATM initiative

DAKAR, Senegal, January 31, 2025/APO Group/ — 

By Henok Teferra Shawl, Boeing Africa Managing Director (www.Boeing.com).

The liberalization of Africa’s air transport market, as envisioned through the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), is not just an aspirational goal — it is an economic necessity. A unified African sky, underpinned by the Joint Prioritized Action Plan (JPAP), promises to reduce travel costs for passengers, enhance connectivity, and catalyze economic growth and cultural exchange across the continent. The success of this initiative hinges on the active support and collaboration of governments, airlines and aircraft manufacturers such as Boeing.

The need for SAATM stems from longstanding challenges in Africa’s aviation sector: limited intra-African connectivity, high travel costs, fragmented regulations, constrained aircraft financing, and underdeveloped aviation infrastructure. These barriers have confined trade, tourism, economic and social integration for decades.

Aircraft manufacturers have a responsibility to help address these issues through policy engagement, partnerships, capacity building, and technology. We take pride in our role not just as fleet suppliers but critical enablers of the ecosystem and skills that Africa’s aviation industry needs to thrive.

Significant progress has already been achieved; 37 African countries, representing over 80% of the continent’s aviation market, have joined the SAATM initiative. Key regulatory frameworks are in place, including those for fair competition and consumer protection. Capacity-building programs for aviation professionals and improvements in safety standards are now aligned with international benchmarks.

Partnering with African airlines helps renew fleets with fuel-efficient and versatile aircraft designed to meet the continent’s unique operational requirements

However, to unlock SAATM’s full potential, sustained efforts are needed to address lingering challenges such as high operational costs, infrastructure gaps, and protectionist policies. Boeing is committed to contribute meaningfully in this regard.

Collaboration is a major lever. Aircraft manufacturers partner with governments and regional bodies to highlight the benefits of a liberalized air transport market. As an example, Boeing is an active participant in the African Aviation Industry Group. The group encourages more countries to commit to SAATM and work towards harmonizing regulatory standards, creating a more unified and efficient aviation ecosystem in Africa.

Air safety is one more area of collaboration across the continent. Aircraft manufacturers including Boeing support African countries in achieving the international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and help enhance regional air safety working closely with airlines and organizations like African Airlines Association (AFRAA).

Fleet modernization is another key area where aircraft manufacturers can make a significant impact. Partnering with African airlines helps renew fleets with fuel-efficient and versatile aircraft designed to meet the continent’s unique operational requirements. Modernized fleets reduce operational costs and emissions and make air travel more competitive, accessible, and sustainable, a critical factor for the success of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

Capacity building is another essential contribution. Training programs for pilots, engineers, airline management, and other aviation professionals are vital to supporting the sector’s rapid growth and elevating passenger experience. Aircraft manufacturers, with their expertise and resources, are well-positioned to deliver world-class training and share best practices – and we are spearheading these efforts. Additionally, community engagement programs for African youth provide systemic improvement in science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) education and economic empowerment, directly feeding the talent pipeline. All these initiatives equip Africa’s aviation workforce with the skills needed to ensure a robust, safe and capable industry.

Finally, infrastructure enhancement is another important building block to SAATM. By providing counsel and data-driven analytics, aircraft manufacturers can assist in modernizing airports and air traffic management systems. This ensures the infrastructure is prepared to handle the anticipated increase in air traffic, enhancing safety and facilitating smoother, more efficient operations across the continent.

A fully realized SAATM will enable seamless travel and economic growth, fostering unity, and positioning Africa as a competitive player in the global aviation industry. The collaborative efforts of the African Union Commission and its implementing agency, the African Civil Aviation Commission, national governments, civil aviation authorities, the African Development Bank, African Airlines Association, airlines, and aircraft manufacturers through the Joint Prioritized Action Plan in support of SAATM are pivotal in achieving this vision.

Working together, we can ensure Africa’s aviation renaissance and the realization of the African Union vision, Agenda 2063: an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Boeing.

Continue Reading

Trending