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African Energy Week (AEW) 2024 to Host Country Spotlights on Namibia, Nigeria, Republic of Congo (ROC), Mozambique and More

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African Energy Week

African Energy Week: Invest in African Energy will drive new investment and partnership formations in Africa’s leading energy markets through a series of country-specific sessions

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, July 9, 2024/APO Group/ — 

The upcoming African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy conference – Africa’s premier event for the energy sector, taking place this November in Cape Town – will host a series of country-specific spotlights, showcasing investment opportunities across Africa’s leading energy markets.

Spotlight sessions will highlight projects seeking investment, licensing rounds, planned drilling campaigns and other opportunities for private sector participation. Invest in Nigeria Energies will present lucrative opportunities in Nigeria’s oil and gas market, which has seen several key developments in recent months. The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission recently launched its 2024 licensing round, featuring 12 blocks on offer. Majors like Shell have announced plans to invest $1 billion in Nigerian gas projects over the next decade, while Chevron has launched a $1.4 billion infill drilling program. In the gas sector, Nigeria is aiming to produce 5.5 billion cubic feet per day by 2030 and enhance energy security by exploiting its 200 trillion cubic feet of gas reserves, on the back of the country’s flagship Decade of Gas initiative.

In Namibia, a series of offshore oil discoveries – including Shell’s Enigma-1X, Graff-1X, La Rona, Jonker-1X and Lesedi-1X; Galp’s Mopane-1X and Mopane-2X; and TotalEnergies’ Venus-1X and Mangetti-1X – have positioned the country as a global exploration hotspot. New exploration licenses for on- and offshore blocks awarded as part of the country’s latest open-door licensing system present further opportunities for both major and independent explorers. Namibia also ranks as one of Africa’s top green hydrogen markets – home to Hyphen Hydrogen Energy’s $10 billion Tsau-Khaeb development – with the Invest in Namibia Energies session set to showcase the country’s diversified energy agenda. 

The Invest in MSGBC Energies spotlight will delve into the MSGBC region’s energy boom, highlighting first gas production from the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project in Senegal and Mauritania, as well as first oil production at Senegal’s Sangomar Oil Development. Upcoming projects like the Yakaar-Teranga Hub in Senegal and the Orca and Banda gas fields in Mauritania continue regional industry expansion, while frontier exploration in The Gambia, Guinea-Conakry and Guinea-Bissau points to new oil and gas prospects. In the renewable energy space, Mauritania is also piloting green hydrogen with Chariot’s 10 GW Project Nour, CWP Global’s Aman and AMEA Power’s green hydrogen facilities.

Invest in the Republic of Congo Energies will explore the Congo’s ongoing efforts to maximize its oil production through historic levels of upstream investment. TotalEnergies has announced a $600-million plan to increase production at the Moho Nord field by 40,000 barrels per day in the next three years. Meanwhile, the Republic of Congo is spearheading gas exploration and monetization through a new Gas Master Plan and gas code, supported by Eni’s Congo LNG project – set to transform the country into a major LNG exporter – and Wing Wah’s Banga Kayo project, further enhancing the country’s gas market prospects.

The Invest in Algeria Energies session will showcase Algeria’s efforts to boost its gas reserves, production and exports to Europe, while establishing itself as a leading green hydrogen market. Last April, Algerian NOC Sonatrach signed an agreement with TotalEnergies to develop gas resources in the North-East Timimoun region, while the country is expanding its TFTII oil and gas pipeline to increase gas exports to Europe. Algeria is also evaluating prospects to develop and export green hydrogen to Europe through cooperation with private and public sector entities from Chile and Germany.

As one of Africa’s largest oil producers, Angola is undertaking a series of projects to maintain oil production above 1.1 million bpd through 2027. International energy firm Azule Energy is progressing in the expansion of its Ndungu oil field with the award of an $850-million energy services contract to Saipem last month. The launch of Angola’s 2025 limited public tender, featuring up to 10 offshore blocks in the Kwanza and Benguela basins, also remains highly anticipated. In the downstream sector, NOC Sonangol is expanding the country’s refinery capacity with various new refineries underway in Soyo, Lobito and Cabinda. The Invest in Angola Energies session functions as a platform to connect global investors with Angola’s untapped oil and gas opportunities.

Attracting new investors, partners and technologies is crucial for Africa to maximize the development and exploitation of its energy resources

In Equatorial Guinea, NOC GEPetrol recently initiated several E&P partnerships to unlock new opportunities within the country’s upstream sector, including a $350-million contract with energy services firm Petrofac and a deal with Panoro Energy concluding the terms for offshore Block EG-23. A drilling campaign has been launched by Trident Energy in the Ceiba and Okume fields in Block G since last November and has the potential to unlock additional hydrocarbon production, which will be unpacked at Invest in Equatorial Guinea Energies.

Libya’s National Oil Company plans to launch a licensing round by early-2025 as part of its strategy to boost oil production to 2 million bpd. The country has already increased production by 5.4% as of March 2024, surpassing Nigeria as Africa’s largest crude oil producer. A series of recent exploration agreements with international players including Sonatrach, Eni, bp, Equinor, Oil India and Repsol have restored confidence and catalyzed new activity within the gas and oil sector, with Invest in Libya Energies set to connect investors with emerging prospects.

In Mozambique, the launch of the country’s seventh licensing round in 2025 – alongside major projects such as TotalEnergies’ $10-billion Mozambique LNG facility, ExxonMobil’s Rovuma LNG facility and the expansion of Eni’s Coral South projects – present new opportunities for partnership and investment, to be explored at the Invest in Mozambique Energies spotlight. The award of six exploration blocks in the Angoche and Mozambique basins to China’s CNOOC and a consortium of Eni and Mozambican national oil company ENH – as part of the sixth licensing round in 2023 – highlights growing interest by international firms in the country’s oil and gas prospects.

Lastly, Ghana is undertaking over 17 new oil and gas projects through 2027, aiming for universal energy access by 2030 on the back of expanded hydrocarbon production. Invest in Ghana Energies represents the premier platform for investors to access opportunities within one of Africa’s most mature markets. Key projects include Aker Energy’s Pecan Phase 1A, Ghana National Gas Company’s Atuabo II Gas Processing Plant, Helios Investment’s Tema Floating LNG Plant and the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company’s Tema-Akosombo II Pipeline.

“Attracting new investors, partners and technologies is crucial for Africa to maximize the development and exploitation of its energy resources. The country spotlights at AEW 2024 will connect Africa’s most dynamic markets with global investors, developers and decision-makers and foster strategic collaborations to drive the continent’s energy growth,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.

AEW: Invest in African Energy 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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Yellow Card Secures Crypto Asset Service Provider Licence in South Africa

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Yellow Card

Stablecoin adoption is surging throughout Africa, with sub-Saharan Africa having the highest adoption rate in the world at 9.2%

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 20, 2024/APO Group/ — 

Yellow Card (www.YellowCard.io), Africa’s leading stablecoin-based infrastructure provider, has been issued a Crypto Asset Service Provider (CASP) licence by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in South Africa.  

Commenting on the FSCA’s decision to issue the licence to Yellow Card Financial South Africa, Chris Maurice, Yellow Card’s co-founder and CEO, said, “The CASP licence underscores Yellow Card’s commitment to its customers in South Africa and regulatory compliance across the continent.This achievement reflects our dedication to providing secure, compliant and transformative solutions for our customers both in South Africa and across Africa.  

The CASP licence underscores Yellow Card’s commitment to its customers in South Africa and regulatory compliance across the continent

Stablecoin adoption is surging throughout Africa, with sub-Saharan Africa having the highest adoption rate in the world at 9.2%. In South Africa alone, where the number of total users of crypto assets is estimated to amount to 5.8 million people, stablecoins have experienced growth of 50% month over month since October 2023, displacing bitcoin as the country’s most popular cryptocurrency.  Yellow Card is excited to play a pivotal role in this financial revolution in South Africa. 

Yellow Card, which launched in South Africa in 2020, has facilitated over US$3 billion in transactions in the last several years and now operates in 20 countries across the continent. The company recently completed a US$33 million Series C financing, led by Blockchain Capital and existing investors, including Polychain Capital, Valar Ventures, Third Prime Ventures, Coinbase Ventures, and Block, Inc. (Square/Cash App), reflecting strong investor confidence in its mission.   

As the stablecoin landscape continues to evolve, Yellow Card is committed to leading the charge in making digital assets accessible and secure for businesses across Africa. With the recent licensing and funding, the company plans to expand its B2B offerings by enhancing its stablecoin rails, upgrading infrastructure, and advancing its B2B API and Widget. These efforts will empower businesses with seamless solutions for liquidity management and their general operations. 

To learn more about Yellow Card, visit: https://YellowCard.io/

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Yellow Card Financial.

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Telecoming and MTN Partner to Launch cloud gaming in South Africa

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MTN Cloudplay will allow MTN users in South Africa to access a wide range of cloud-based video games, providing a high-quality gaming experience without the need for downloads or high-end gaming consoles

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 20, 2024/APO Group/ —

  • Both companies extend their collaboration to introduce cloud gaming in South Africa.
  • MTN Cloudplay aims to revolutionize digital entertainment with affordable, high-quality gaming access.

MTN, Africa’s leading telecommunications operator with over 290 million subscribers across the continent, announces the launch of Cloudplay, a revolutionary new cloud gaming service, with Telecoming (www.Telecoming.com), a sportech company specializing in developing and distributing mobile experiences for sports and entertainment. This project marks a new milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the two companies.

MTN Cloudplay: A Game Changer

MTN Cloudplay will allow MTN users in South Africa to access a wide range of cloud-based video games, providing a high-quality gaming experience without the need for downloads or high-end gaming consoles. The service will allow customers to stream high-end PC games to their mobile phones, enabling them to play anywhere, anytime.

This service seeks to democratize access to high-quality mobile gaming for the whole family; including various genres which include retro games and exciting popular gaming titles with multi-device gameplay, at an affordable price of only R79 per month.

Jason Probert, General Manager for Digital Services at MTN South Africa shared his thoughts on the collaboration:

Customers can use their existing Steam licenses on the service, and have access to more than 300 games on the service for only R79 per month

“We’re thrilled to launch MTN Cloudplay in South Africa. We’re committed to enabling our customers to enjoy the benefits of a modern connected life and the advent of 5G means that it is now possible to stream and play games without the need for a PC or console. Customers can use their existing Steam licenses on the service, and have access to more than 300 games on the service for only R79 per month.”

Alí Karaosman, MEA Director of Telecoming says “It is very exciting for us to extend our collaboration with MTN, bringing our nearly decade-long experience in this market and supporting the operator in this innovative digital entertainment offering, we are convinced that MTN Cloudplay will revolutionize the way users in South Africa enjoy video games. For Telecoming, this partnership with MTN is a strategic step in our mission to bring esports and innovative digital services to Africa. We are committed to continuing to develop technological solutions that enhance digital leisure for people in the region.”

Service Details

MTN Cloudplay is available to all MTN users in South Africa since November 2024. With a vast library of over 340 games from over 50 publishers, this cloud gaming service offers an unmatched gaming experience on any device.

MTN Cloudplay is accessible to MTN subscribers. Users can visit https://Cloudplay.MTN.co.za to explore the platform and enjoy a wide selection of gaming titles.

Highlights

  • Extensive Game Library: Enjoy classics like Contra, PacMan and Mortal Kombat and modern hits like Hogwarts Legacy and Borderlands 3.
  • Bring Your Own License (BYOL): Access games you’ve purchased on Steam, such as Grand Theft Auto V and Fallout 4.
  • Multi-Device Access: Play on any device and switch seamlessly between them.
  • Low Latency: Experience responsive gameplay with minimal lag.
  • Subscription: Available directly on https://Cloudplay.MTN.co.za or via the MTN Play https://Play.MTN.co.za website for R79 per month.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Telecoming.

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rainx Launches the101 Range of 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) Routers for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs)

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The industry’s smartest and most aesthetically pleasing 5G and Wi-Fi 7 router opens new opportunities for service providers globally

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 20, 2024/APO Group/ — 

rainx, a leader in 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) solutions, has launched the101 range (https://apo-opa.co/40UwYYE), an advanced ecosystem of fixed wireless 5G and Wi-Fi access products designed to meet the high standards of modern Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) and their customers.

This lineup includes the101 and the101 Pro 5G smart routers, the101 Xtender smart mesh Wi-Fi extender, and the101 Loop – a new category of product designed for today’s always-connected customer, powered by MediaTek. Together, these solutions redefine 5G FWA, enabling operators to enhance network quality, reduce churn, and drive new revenue streams. The routers also offer a collection of 101 skins to suit the users’ style, creating devices that are designed to be on show.

Targeted to the demands of the modern telco

As demand for 5G-enabled FWA continues to surge, MNOs face complex challenges in scaling network capacity and quality for fixed locations, while managing the concurrent load on mobile networks. Recognising this challenge, rainx has engineered the Customer Edge approach, an integrated ecosystem of products and services designed to empower operators to manage and optimise the customer experience. This begins with the101 range of 5G smart routers, which double as network probes, feeding real-time insights to theStation, a smart managed services platform.

theStation provides operators with deep network insights, enabling accurate, proactive decisions on coverage and capacity expansion. Operators can access detailed data on network performance in the home, including Wi-Fi clients, usage patterns, speed and latency – providing proactive support and direct customer communication through the101’s touch screen. This visibility gives MNOs comprehensive control over the entire FWA ecosystem, helping to streamline network load management, anticipate capacity needs, and deliver high-speed connectivity for both residential and commercial customers.

For end-users, the101 range provides an intuitive, self-service interface that empowers customers to manage their network in real time, minimising support needs and enhancing the overall customer experience.

Key Products in the101 Range include:

the101 Pro 5G smart router

Built for premium, high-demand users, the101 Pro offers advanced 5G capabilities with the new MediaTek (MTK) T830 platform that delivers sub-6Ghz 5G with speeds of up to 7 Gbps, Wi-Fi 7 and 300MHz 4 carrier aggregation. The routers offer a range of customisable skins to suit the users’ aesthetic preferences that bring the Pro’s screen to life. Its powerful hardware ensures optimal performance for bandwidth-intensive applications, including cloud gaming.

Our Customer Edge approach provides operators with the deep insights they need to make informed decisions on their networks

Ripple Messaging™ offers MNOs a direct communication channel to the device’s 2.1” touch screen for real-time support and service notifications. It includes a built-in speed test and a “Tap for Support” feature. Additionally, theStation’s managed services enable proactive device management, optimising performance with real-time updates to ensure continuous service quality and reducing operational costs.

the101 5G Smart Router

rainx’s mid-range offering is powered by an MTK T750 platform with 200MHz two carrier aggregation and AX3600 Wi-Fi 6. With a 1.8” touch screen display, it offers smart features like “Scan to Connect”, direct messaging and a built-in speed test. It’s available with a choice of 101 skins to suit customer tastes. the101 also offers managed services through theStation.

the101 Xtender Smart Mesh Wi-Fi

the101 Xtender broadens 5G coverage, enabling MNOs to deliver high-quality, uniform connectivity throughout larger spaces. As part of the mesh network, Xtenders integrate directly with 101 routers, allowing operators to address Wi-Fi coverage gaps and deliver a consistent, high-speed experience across homes or office spaces.

the101 Loop

A new portable 5G router designed for today’s always-connected consumer. With built-in 5G, a 5.5” LCD touch screen, 25W stereo sound and a cinematic camera, the Loop lets you connect in exciting new ways. MNOs can leverage the Loop’s multimedia capabilities to offer premium services, build customer loyalty and create new ARPU (Average Revenue Per User) opportunities through integrated 5G and Wi-Fi.

“Through smart hardware and services, we’re partnering with MNOs and MVNOs to unlock the potential of 5G,” said Brandon Leigh, Founder and Director of rainx. “Our ecosystem empowers operators to monetise latent 5G capacity, create new revenue streams, and addresses the shift from spiky mobile traffic to high, steady usage at fixed locations. Our Customer Edge approach provides operators with the deep insights they need to make informed decisions on their networks, manage the customer experience and generate ROI from 5G.”

“For customers, the 101range allows them to blend their aesthetic preferences with beautiful customisable skins, alongside high-performance engineering powered by the latest MediaTek CPE technology. the101 range delivers a reliable, high-speed connection that stays robust during periods of spiky traffic. The range also offers intuitive self-service features, allowing customers to easily monitor and control their router, reducing the need for support calls and creating a seamless, hands-on user experience that truly puts the power in their hands,” Leigh concluded. 

Rami Osman, Director of Business Development for MediaTek Middle East and Africa, said: “We are excited to collaborate with rainx to increase 5G FWA access across Africa, Asia and abroad to bring the benefits of fast, reliable connectivity to consumers and businesses. The MediaTek T830 has a highly integrated and compact design that provides big power savings and reduces development time and costs for customers like rainx.

“The MediaTek T830 chipset platform represents the latest advancements in both 5G and Wi-Fi connectivity and enables our customers to build extremely high-performance multi-gigabit 5G CPE products in the smallest form factors possible. Users can get a super-fast router at home of office that they can self-install and manage, reducing the lengthy installation times for fixed line broadband,” Osman said.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MediaTek Inc..

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